Archive of Our Own ^beta

Jungkook rolls onto his side, a throw pillow wedged between his knees, curled up like a grumpy cat on the couch. The YouTube video keeps playing. Onscreen, a garlic knot bread collapses onto the tray with a sad little thud. A deep chuckle follows a beat later.

Jungkook’s eye twitches.

“It’s the hands,” he mutters. “Freakin’ alpha hands.”

His hands are too big and fingers too long. The camera angle gives everything away. One overhead shot of the counter, and anyone could clock the guy as an alpha.

“Alright, now I know not to pull them too tight,” the man says cheerfully, brushing flour off his hands.

Jungkook’s jaw ticks. “Right. Brag about your alpha grip some more, why don’t you.”

Footsteps pad in from the kitchen.

“You’re watching Taehyung again?” Jimin asks, dropping onto the armchair with a plate of freshly cooked fries. His face is flushed from a hot shower, skin dewy from the seven-step skin care routine Jungkook never bothers memorizing.

“He’s flexing,” Jungkook snaps, glaring at his own phone screen. “He’s doing that thing again with his forearms.”

Jimin hums, chewing slowly. “For someone who hates him, you sure watch his stuff a lot, Jungkook-ah. Are you sure you’re not subscribed?”

Jungkook squints at his roommate, eyes narrowing into a full-force, laser-beam death glare. Jimin, as always, remains blissfully immune to his attempt at being intimidating.

“I subscribed for research,” Jungkook murmurs under his breath, like he doesn’t even want to admit it out loud. “He’s my competition. Keep your enemies close or whatever.”

Jimin snorts, grabs the throw pillow from behind his back, and chucks it at him. Jungkook barely flinches as the soft material hits the side of his face before tumbling to the floor.

“God,” Jimin groans, “I still don’t get it. ‘ Hyung, he’s obviously taking advantage of omega viewers. Why is he in a tank top for a home organization video?’ Why does he always do that arm stretch thing? Blah blah blah. But if you hate him so much, why do you watch his new videos every single week?”

Jungkook huffs, dragging the blanket back up, the same one he kicked off onto the floor fifteen minutes ago, and pulls it higher like it might shield him from Jimin’s judgment.

Jungkook doesn’t hate Taehyung. Not really. He doesn’t have the energy or capacity to fully hate anyone. But ever since Taehyung went viral at the start of the year and has only gotten more popular since, started showing up on his feed, Jungkook has been stuck with this weird, indescribable feeling he can’t quite shake.

Maybe it starts with expectations.

Taehyung’s first viral video was a calm, softly edited review of nesting supplies. Blankets, diffusers, pillows, and all the cozy omega-coded stuff that usually doesn’t make waves beyond a niche audience. Naturally, Jungkook assumes he’s an omega. And as someone who’s been creating on YouTube for over five years, he’s honestly kind of excited to discover a new fellow omega content creator, and apparently a local one too. He even starts thinking about a future collaboration before the video ends.

Then he finds out Taehyung is an alpha.

Not just that. After scrolling further down his timeline, Jungkook finds out the video went viral because toxic alpha influencers tore it apart. They mocked Taehyung for being a “submissive” alpha, called him weak, and accused him of pandering for views.

And of course, that only made the omega community rally around him harder. They flooded his channel with support, subscriptions, and endless praise. Called him brave, sweet, and refreshing, especially coming from an alpha.

Which, honestly, annoys Jungkook a little more than it should.

Because Jungkook always believes that knowing about basic omega needs like nesting shouldn’t be groundbreaking. It should be common knowledge for alpha, beta, and omega. Especially if you plan to mate and actually live with one.

But that’s not really where it starts either.

The real problem, Jungkook thinks, is that Taehyung keeps making content that looks like it was lifted straight from an omega’s channel. Cooking videos with recipes meant for post-heat and post-rut recovery. Home organization routines. Product hauls and reviews for items typically marketed toward omegas. Stuff Jungkook and others have been posting about for years.

It’s not the only thing Taehyung shares. There are also workout clips, alpha-centered product reviews, vlogs that lean more neutral. But lately, the omega-coded content seems to be taking over. And it’s the stuff that gets him thousands of likes. Sometimes even millions of views.

Jungkook keeps asking himself why.

Why is an alpha so focused on making that kind of content? Why do people seem to love it even more coming from someone like him? Why does the algorithm keep boosting his videos while many other omega creators doing the same thing is overshadowed?

It feels… off.

Jungkook doesn’t want to assume the worst. He never does. He just knows how often the omega community gets taken advantage of. How easy it is for someone to step into their space, wear omega traits like a costume, and get praised for it while actual omegas get ignored.

So no, he doesn’t hate Taehyung. But he’s watching him. Very carefully.

Jungkook sits up halfway, the blanket sagging down to his hips. “No, listen. He makes these videos like he's an expert on omegas or something... and people eat it up. Omegas eat it up. It’s like he’s curating this whole omega domestic fantasy, but he’s not even an omega.”

Jimin leans forward slightly, tilting his head, a fry paused midway to his mouth.

“And it’s not just one or two videos,” Jungkook continues, hands already moving as his voice builds. “He does an entire series . Meals for post-heat recovery. Reorganizing your space to reduce dysphoria. Diffuser blends for hormone regulation. Literal nesting tips. All the stuff omegas have been talking about for years. Then he does it, and his fans act like he invented the concept.”

His voice pitches up, tight with disbelief. “And yeah, okay. His editing is good. Like, really good. The color grading is great. The background music is always soothing but never corny. And he’s charming, which makes it worse. Like, ugh , stop being funny and just go on with the main points of your video. It’s distracting.”

Jungkook presses his knuckles to his temple. “But that’s the thing. When omegas post that kind of content, it’s seen as normal. Expected. Niche, even. But when he does it, suddenly it’s groundbreaking. Just because he’s an alpha choosing to… what? Go against the usual dominant alpha content and be more… Vulnerable?”

Jungkook exhales, slow and controlled, eyes fixed on the freeze frame of Taehyung’s face on his phone like it’s personally offended him.

“And I know I sound bitter. I do. But I’ve seen it too many times. Alphas stepping into omega spaces, saying the same things we’ve said for years, and getting praised like prophets. And I’m just supposed to be fine with that?”

His fingers curl into the blanket bunched in his lap. “Omegas talk about nesting and emotional safety and post-heat care because it’s our reality. He talks about it and suddenly it’s content. It’s branding .”

“Or maybe he just… thinks it’s important too?” Jimin finally responds carefully. He knows how strongly Jungkook feels about this. “Maybe he actually believes in it, and wants to normalize it for other alphas. Show that they don’t always have to fit into that hard-edged, dominant mold either. Maybe he’s also trying to pull in an alpha audience, even if it’s small, so they can be more thoughtful. More informed about the omegas in their lives.”

Jungkook’s jaw shifts. He doesn’t argue. But he doesn’t fully disagree with Jimin either.

“I don’t want to assume he’s being fake,” Jungkook says. “I really don’t. I’ve just seen too many people pull that same act. Using omega-coded language and topics to build a following they don’t actually care about. I guess I just don’t want to support someone who’s pretending to care about us.”

Jimin nods slowly. “I get that, Jungkook. I really do. There are so many omega YouTubers out there who are actual experts on omega physiology, psychology, everything. Maybe people would benefit more by watching them. Hell, I’ll say it… you make great content. Smart, informed, and rich in actual knowledge. If someone really wants to learn more about omegas, I’d always recommend they listen to omega voices first.”

Jimin sets the empty plate aside. All the fries are gone, which Jungkook hadn’t even noticed. Maybe he’s been ranting long enough for Jimin to finish every last one.

“All I’m saying is… there’s a chance Taehyung’s not doing it with bad intentions.”

Jungkook looks away, fingers curling into the blanket again. “I don’t know. I guess I just don’t want to give someone the benefit of the doubt unless they’ve earned it.”

“Well... I read somewhere that he grew up in a mostly omega pack. His siblings are all omegas.”

Jungkook blinks. That , he didn’t know.

“So wouldn’t it be kinda weird if he was malicious toward us?” Jimin adds. “I mean, if he was just using our community to boost his numbers or something, I’m pretty sure his family would’ve smacked some sense into him.”

“Okay, but if he ever brings a bad reputation to our community… I’m going to march straight over and say something to his pretty face.”

Jimin picks up a lone fry that had fallen into his lap and pops it into his mouth, chewing slowly. “So… you also hate him because he’s handsome?”

“What? No! I mean—okay, of course he has an advantage with that face. And I guess looks matter in a lot of ways, which I hate to admit but won’t deny,” Jungkook snaps. “But Jimin hyung, he’s manufacturing relatability for clicks!”

Jimin snorts. “Sure. Sounds totally unbiased and not at all laced with personal issues.”

Jungkook throws him another glare. “It’s not personal.”

“Sure, Jungkook. Maybe you’ll have to meet him to confirm if your theory’s correct. Maybe offer a collab or something. I’ll support that. I’m curious too now.”

“Me? Collabing with him ? I don’t know…” Jungkook grumbles. “I’m not exactly good at masking my emotions on camera. And he pisses me off.”

Jimin leans back in the armchair, looking far too satisfied. “Right. And yet you’ve seen almost every video on his channel. Makes sense.”

Jungkook grabs the same sage-green throw pillow Jimin had chucked at him earlier and hurls it right back at his chest. “You’re so annoying.”

Jimin catches it without flinching, smug as ever. “And yet not as annoying as someone who watches an alpha he supposedly hates in 4K every week.”

“I’m gathering intel!” Jungkook fires back. “It’s not like I’m enjoying it.”

“Right,” Jimin nods, sighing as he stands, grabbing his empty plate and heading toward the kitchen. “That’s why you laughed at his jokes, bookmarked his diffuser recommendations, and saved that heat-recovery recipe last week.”

“That was for comparison!”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Jungkook groans and flops back into the couch, dragging the blanket over his face. “I hate it here.”

🎞

After finishing the quality check on the final cut of his next video, Jungkook decides it’s a good day to reward himself. The café he frequents just posted a new specialty pastry menu on Instagram, and the photos alone are enough to get him out the door.

The place is warm and familiar, sunlight pouring through the tall windows, casting golden lines across the wood-paneled walls. The scent of coffee lingers thick in the air, layered with cinnamon, warm butter, and something floral. Perhaps, coming from the perfume of the couple sitting at the table beside him.

Jungkook sits in his usual corner, tucked near the end of the café where the light isn’t too blinding. His hood is up, sleeves pushed to his elbows, tattoos peeking out along his forearms. An iced café latte sits sweating on a coaster beside his propped-up iPad and earbuds in as he lets the world fade out.

Onscreen, Taehyung leans back on a couch in between his two sisters. The video is softly lit, filmed in a sun-drenched room with houseplants in the background. A tiny Pomeranian sleeps soundly on his lap, completely undisturbed.

“I don’t think I even realized I was presenting until I was already in the nest, feeling like my whole body was on fire,” Taehyung says, laughing as he glances at his older sister . “Noona cried more than I did.”

“I was trying so hard to get him off the floor and into the nest,” she sighs, rolling her eyes at herself. “Yeah, while crying because I panicked. Our parents weren’t home, and I was the ‘responsible adult.’ And I also didn’t expect him to present as an alpha. But look at him now… muscles and all, towering over us when he used to be so small.”

“I was too busy crying over a cracked bowl and spilled soup,” Taehyung says with a sheepish laugh.

Despite the muscles and height, he looks small between them. The way he leans in, shoulders rounded slightly, makes him feel more like someone’s baby brother than an alpha.

His younger sister laughs, hair bouncing as she does. “It was his favorite bowl,” she tells the camera.

Jungkook’s mouth twitches into a smile. Just slightly.

He can’t deny that it’s a pretty wholesome presenting story, and they seem like they’ve got a solid sibling dynamic.

Jungkook’s cousin had presented and went into rut while visiting their place, and it turned into a whole situation. As an omega, he gets where Taehyung’s sisters were coming from. It’s intense and overwhelming.

Jungkook shifts in his seat when he realizes he’s smiling. He clears his throat, like that’ll somehow reset his face. He reminds himself it’s just research. That’s all.

He finished work hours ago and was bored out of his mind when the video popped up on his YouTube homepage. ‘Growing Up in an Omega Pack as an Alpha’ . It’s trending and he clicked it without thinking. And now here he is, halfway through a video that’s surprisingly thoughtful, interesting, and way more personal than he expected.

Taehyung is mid-sentence, talking about unlearning toxic alpha stereotypes, when a voice suddenly cuts through the audio.

“Hi! Oh my god, sorry, but… are you Jungkook?”

Jungkook blinks, startled out of the video. He pulls one earbud out and turns to find two women standing by his table, both clutching their phones like they’re trying not to be too loud despite their excitement.

“I love your channel,” one of them says almost breathlessly. “Especially your video about post-heat nutrition and your journaling tips. Like, that changed my entire routine.”

“Can we take a picture?” the other asks, eyes wide but polite. “If that’s okay? Sorry if you’re working and we’re bothering you.”

Jungkook straightens in his seat, tamping down the knee-jerk embarrassment of being caught not working and very much watching Taehyung’s latest video. Before either of the women can glimpse his screen, he quickly locks it, then reaches up and pushes his hood back off his head, letting it fall behind his neck.

He offers a polite smile, doing his best to look casual.

“Yeah, of course,” he says. “I’m really glad one of my videos helped you. What are your names?”

They converse for a short while before taking two quick selfies. One of them thanks him again three times in a row. the other gushes about how she’s followed him since the very beginning, five years ago.

Jungkook mutters a quiet thank you, ears going warm. Compliments still catch him off guard, even after all this time. He appreciates them, he really does, but they always make him feel a little awkward.

As they start to leave, he hears one of them whisper-shriek to the other, just barely keeping it down.

“I can’t believe we saw both Taehyung and Jungkook in the same place!”

Jungkook freezes.

Wait, what?

He turns his head slowly, heart giving a weird little lurch.

And there he is.

Taehyung, standing by the pickup counter, idly scrolling through his phone as he waits for his drink. He’s dressed in a leather jacket, deep black and slightly oversized, layered over a soft-looking white tee. His jeans are just a little too long, pooling slightly over his sneakers and cuffed half-heartedly at the ankles.

His hair is slightly tousled, parted cleanly but falling into his eyes, glossy and dark under the café lights. Even from this distance, Jungkook can tell his skin looks stupidly smooth. 

Jungkook can’t help but stares. He looks just like he does in his videos except more... real. Taller, prettier, and annoyingly cooler in person, which feels unfair.

He hadn’t even noticed Taehyung come in. Not that he was watching the door, keeping tabs on every customer. He’d been focused. Too focused on the very video of Kim fucking Taehyung. And now, somehow, the subject of that video is standing across the room like it’s just another Tuesday.

At the counter, the barista calls out, “Oat latte for Taehyung!”

Jungkook hears it clear as day. His spine goes rigid.

Taehyung looks up with that signature charming smile, thanks the barista, then turns with his drink in hand, scanning the room for an empty seat.

And then their eyes meet.

Taehyung lets out a soft gasp, and recognition lights up his face. He smiles, then starts walking over like this is perfectly normal. Like they aren’t complete strangers. But fuck, Jungkook forgets the fact that Taehyung is easygoing and befriends everyone he meets according to fan compilation videos on social media.

Jungkook panics.

Shit. He should’ve looked away. Should’ve pulled his hoodie up and pretended not to exist. Pretended not to be Jeon Jungkook. Pretended he didn’t know exactly who Kim Taehyung is.

Instead, he stares like a deer in headlights.

He scrambles for his drink, takes a gulp too fast, and immediately chokes on it. His eyes shoot toward the exit, brain short-circuiting and heart pounding like it’s trying to tell him to run, escape and disappear into thin air.

But it’s too late.

There’s no hiding now. No ducking out without looking like a total jerk or ignoring the very obvious alpha who is now only a few steps away.

He’s cornered, and Taehyung is almost at his table.

“Sorry,” Taehyung says, eyes crinkling a little as he gestures vaguely at him. “Are you… Jeon Jungkook?”

Jungkook lifts his eyes, slow and wary, like maybe if he moves gently enough, none of this will be real. But Taehyung’s still there, standing in front of him.

Jungkook grips the edge of the table.

“I, uh—yeah,” Jungkook stammered, the words clumsy on his tongue. His voice doesn’t even sound like his.

Taehyung’s smile stretches wider, but it’s nothing like the ones from his videos. It’s softer up close. Less camera-perfect and almost shy. His lashes cast faint shadows down his cheeks and it only makes it even harder for Jungkook to look away.

“I hope it’s okay to say this,” he starts, fingers curling tighter around the cardboard sleeve of his drink. “But I’ve seen a lot of your videos.”

Jungkook’s mouth goes dry. Of course he has. That’s the whole point of YouTube. Still, something about knowing Taehyung has also watched his videos makes Jungkook feel like someone dropped a stone in his stomach.

“Your editing style is really cool,” Taehyung adds before he pauses, working his jaw like he's chewing over his next words. “I’m a fan,” he finally says. “Genuinely, I mean that.”

He ducks his head a little, like he’s embarrassed.

Jungkook wants to be normal. Say thank you, maybe crack a joke, be charming or interesting or anything other than whatever-the-hell-he-is right now. But his heart is thudding too loud in his ears and Taehyung’s scent is doing something strange to his breathing.

Green tea. It's deep and velvety. A little earthy and sweet with a thread of something subtle beneath it. Bergamot maybe. It makes Jungkook’s skin tingle in the best way possible. His omega instincts seize like a fist curling inside his chest, and his body is caught between a flinch and a sway forward.

This isn’t how this is supposed to go.

Taehyung is supposed to be cocky, dismissive, and a little full of himself, maybe. Just enough to validate the one-sided resentment Jungkook’s been nursing all this time. But no, Taehyung is… polite.

He doesn’t lean in or hover or let his scent flood the space the way alphas sometimes do when they think their presence is a gift from the universe itself. He stands a careful distance away, one hand on his drink, the other tucked into the side of his jacket like he’s unsure what to do with it. His body language reads almost hesitant.

Then, almost bashfully, Taehyung says, “Would it be alright if I sit with you? Only if you're not working or anything.”

Jungkook’s brain scrambles to reboot.

He should say no. He knows he should. He’s not working. Hell, he could pretend to be. He could easily open Premiere Pro, puts on his earbuds again, or fakes an editing emergency. It would honestly be super easy to lie his way out and salvage his dignity. But instead, he nods like a coward. 

Taehyung hesitates, just a second longer. “And—sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. I’m Taehyung. Kim Taehyung.” He lets out a nervous chuckle. “Um… is it okay if I shake your hand?”

Jungkook barely hears himself say, “Sure.”

Their palms meet, and Jungkook wishes they hadn’t. Not because it’s bad—no, it’s worse because It’s good. Too good. Jungkook feels everything. The warm press of skin, the slight callus near Taehyung’s thumb, the soft curve of his fingers as they wrap around his. It’s ridiculous how soft Taehyung’s hand is. Like lotion-commercial soft. Like fuck-you Jungkook soft.

This is the same hand he’s paused videos to glare at. The same hand that’s been the target of his snarky commentary for weeks. Maybe months. He doesn’t even keep count anymore.

His brain short-circuits further when he realizes he knows that scent. Mixed berries. It’s one of his own go-to hand creams too. He hasn’t talked about it much. Maybe mentioned it once on livestream. But now the same sweetness clings to Taehyung’s skin like some kind of cosmic joke. Of course, he would use the same brand and same variant of hand scream as his.

Jungkook pulls his hand back a little too fast, like it stings. Obviously it doesn’t, but it might as well.

“So…”

“Oh, right. No, I’m actually free. Just watching something. Trying to relax,” Jungkook says, and he gestures stiffly to the chair in front of him.

Taehyung finally sits across from him. The chair drags a little against the floor and it makes a scraping noise for a second and Jungkook hears Taehyung apologise under his breath. One of his legs starts bouncing almost immediately, his gaze flitting around like he doesn’t want to stare too long at Jungkook. 

“You’re too kind. Thank you so much. It’s just… such a great coincidence to meet you here. I’ve actually always wanted to reach out, since we’re kind of in the same area, but… you’re practically a celebrity. I mean, how could I just message or email you out of the blue, right?” He laughs. “Ah, sorry. I ramble when I’m nervous.”

“You shouldn’t be,” Jungkook blurts out before his brain can stop him.

Immediately, he regrets it. He can feel Jimin’s imaginary face materializing in the back of his head, eyebrows raised to his hairline in glee, already mocking, ‘I thought you hated him?’

Jungkook backpedals. Sort of.

“I mean, you’re kind of a hot topic too, Taehyung-ssi.”

That’s it. Just a fact. Not praise or admiration. Not one of those wide-eyed compliments Taehyung’s probably used to. Jungkook’s not about to fawn. He’s not going to lie and pretend he’s liked Taehyung from the start just to get on his good side. But he’s also not about to admit that Taehyung has been haunting both his algorithm and his thoughts for a long time.

It’s easier to say ‘hot topic’ than ‘I’ve watched your videos more times than I’m willing to admit.’

But then Taehyung smiles and ducks his head like he’s not used to hearing that word from other people. He tucks a loose strand of hair behind his ear, lips pulling into a modest line before he says, “I’m grateful I found people who welcomed me. I’m trying my best to grow with everyone’s support.”

God. He’s humble and well-spoken.

Jungkook hates him a little for it.

Jungkook takes another sip of his latte. It's watery now, cold and tasteless. He tells himself again that this is fine. They’re just chatting for a little while, and then Jungkook will go home and pretend none of this ever happened. He won’t mention it to Jimin. In fact, he won’t bring it up at all. Not to anyone.

He and Taehyung crossed paths today, and that’ll be the end of it.

Even if Taehyung doesn’t seem intimidating and even if he’s not trying too hard or acting like he has something to prove, Jungkook still can’t bring himself to trust him. What if it’s all an act?

“Have you tried their new menu?” Taehyung asks, completely unaware of the spiral unraveling inside Jungkook’s head. “They ran out of the strawberry puff pastry. I might have to come back again tomorrow.”

“Ah, yeah.” Jungkook nods. “You’ll have to come early to get all the options. They sell out fast.”

This is just small talk. A harmless conversation, and it doesn’t mean anything. It won’t mean anything.

“I actually came here after watching one of your café vlogs,” Taehyung says, rotating the cup of his latte slowly between his palms.  “The one where you reviewed all the autumn seasonal menus. You had this little pop-up graphic that made everything look so good.”

“Oh.” Jungkook remembers that video he did last autumn. “Right. That one.”

Taehyung takes a sip, then leans back in his chair. “You make cafés look really good, by the way. In your videos, I mean. The way you film them… makes people actually want to go.”

Jungkook lets out an endeared laugh. “That’s kind of the point.”

“Right, of course.” Taehyung cracks a smile. “Actually, last week I watched one of your videos about cozy setups. You had this… cool-looking candle in the background? It has a really elegant black jar and looks really nice. I’ve been thinking about getting something like that for my sister. She’s really into scented candles and mood lighting lately.”

“Yura might like the lilac one from Scentery,” Jungkook says before his brain catches up. As soon as the name leaves his mouth, he realizes his mistake. Taehyung never told him her name.

“Did I… mention her name?”

Shit.

Jungkook fumbles, trying not to freak out. “Oh! Uh, no, I think I saw a post. From your channel? Or maybe a caption somewhere. I just thought her name was cute. So I remembered it.”

“She’s going to be annoyingly proud hearing that.” There’s a flicker of amusement in Taehyung’s eyes

Jungkook wants to dig a hole and curl into it.

“Do you think they still have it in stock?” Taehyung asks.

Jungkook seizes the change in topic like a lifeline. “They did a few days ago. I saw their post about it on Instagram.”

Taehyung shifts in his seat, fingers tightening around his cup. “So... uh. Since you mentioned Scentery, would it be weird if I asked you to come with me to the store?”

"Well—"

Seeing Jungkook’s surprise, Taehyung hurries to explain. “Only if you want to! I mean, I know it’s random. We just met and now I’m already asking you to hang out. It’s totally fine if you’re busy. You just seem to know way more about candles than I do. You can say no, of course.”

It would be easy for Jungkook to say no. He could lie and say he has work, or a filming schedule, or a deadline for a project. It wouldn’t even be that hard. He could make something up and walk away without guilt.

But he doesn’t.

Instead, his eyes flick to his empty cup of coffee, then to Taehyung. “Sure,” Jungkook says. “Why not.”

Taehyung lights up really quickly. It reminds Jungkook of his family dog whenever Jungkook agrees to let him out on a rainy day. The happiness is almost uncontainable.

Jungkook sighs. What is happening to him?

Jungkook hesitates. A dozen reasons to say no flash through his mind, but Taehyung looks too hopeful for a flat-out rejection, and truthfully, Jungkook doesn’t want to say no anyway. Taehyung just needs help picking a gift for his sister, and Jungkook, being an omega who regularly reviews scented candles, happens to know what other omegas might like.

He’s sure he can give solid recommendations. It’s a chance to be helpful and to prove that when it comes to omega taste, he knows his shit. Maybe it’s a little self-proclaimed, but whatever. He’s confident about this one.

He definitely did not agree because he was charmed. Not because Taehyung smells like sweet, warm green tea. Not because his scent gets a little sweeter when he smiles like that.

No. Definitely not because of that.

Right?

🎞

One of the employees at Scentery looks up as they step through the door. A cool blast from the air conditioner hits Jungkook, making him exhale in relief. The shift from humid air to chilled space makes him aware of the sweat on his neck, especially where it clings near his scent gland, leaving the area itchy and oversensitive.

“Oh! You have company this time,” the employee greets him. She’s the same lady who’d helped Jungkook last month when he came in for new diffuser oils. Yoonji, if he remembers correctly.

Jungkook gives a polite nod, then Taehyung steps in a second later and the attendant's eyes light up in recognition. “Hi there!” she chirps. Kim Taehyung, right? First time here? Welcome, welcome. Jungkook’s one of our most loyal visitors.”

“Well, that's why I'm here with him,” Taehyung says, smiling in that maddeningly soft way. “I’m sure he knows your products best.”

Jungkook bites the inside of his cheek.

There it is again. That stupidly charming smile that makes it impossible for Jungkook to look away. He hates it. Worse, he hates that it actually works on him.

Maybe he’s being petty and this is all deeply irrational. But the more time passes, the more it erodes every preconceived notion Jungkook has about Taehyung. Each one of them crumbling and losing its sharp edges. And it leaves him standing in the wreckage with the most infuriating realization.

He might have to rethink his so-called "hate" for the alpha.

“So,” she says, clasping her hands in front of her, “do you two need help finding anything in particular? Or would you rather browse a bit? We’ve got some new seasonal stuff over in the front. Candles, linen sprays, and some limited edition room fragrance that just came in.”

Jungkook instinctively turns to Taehyung. They’re here because he wants to buy a gift, after all. It should be his cue. But Taehyung remains quiet, meeting Jungkook’s gaze with one brow slightly raised. Apparently waiting for him to decide.

Most alphas he’s met wouldn’t hesitate to take control of the moment. To speak first, to steer the conversation, to occupy space like they were entitled to it. Especially in public or when they intend to impress someone.

But Taehyung doesn’t, which forces Jungkook to swallow an uncomfortable truth. It’s thoughtful . It doesn't fit the narrative Jungkook's been nursing for months, that Taehyung is presumptuous, and less genuine than the internet thought he is.

So now, whether he wants to or not, Jungkook needs to confront the possibility that maybe his dislike for the alpha was built on sand rather than solid ground.

And annoyingly, he can already hear Jimin’s voice echoing in his head, ‘ You never actually hate him, Jungkook. ’

Maybe Jimin’s right.

Maybe he is being childish about this—whatever this is.

“We'll look around first,” Jungkook manages to say after clearing his throat. “Thanks.”

Yoonji gives a quick nod. “Of course. Take your time and just give me a shout if you need anything.”

Beside him, Taehyung leans in subtly as he tucks one hand deeper into his pocket, sleeve brushing lightly against Jungkook's arm.

Jungkook goes still. His fingers curl reflexively at his sides, skin prickling with sudden awareness of the warmth radiating between them. Ff Taehyung's scent.

“Um, sorry, is ‘ Shadow Noir ’ still in stock?” he asks, voice pitched just loud enough for Yoonji to hear.

“Good timing! We just restocked it yesterday. It’s where you usually find them, middle shelf, left section.”

“Great. Thank you so much.”

With a nod, she turns and disappears toward the back of the store, leaving them alone in the nearly empty store with mellow music humming from hidden speakers, glass jars gleaming under different lights, and the air steeped in a blend of sandalwood, citrus, a wisp of smoked lavender… and Taehyung.

Jungkook tries not to breathe too deeply, but Taehyung's scent is inescapable. It’s 

He exhales slowly through his nose, trying to steady himself, then risks a glance at Taehyung. The alpha has turned toward a nearby candle display, hands tucked neatly into his jacket pockets, shoulders relaxed as his eyes drift over the labels with curiosity.

“Do you want to check out that candle you mentioned you saw in my video?” Jungkook asks.

Taehyung turns to him with a smile that’s thankfully less sunshine-blinding this time. “Oh. Yeah, sure.”

They walk side by side toward the shelves, where the matte-black jars of ‘ Shadow Noir ’ sit in neat rows. The lights on the shelves are softer and dimmed deliberately, probably to enhance the cozy aesthetic. Jungkook can already pick up the candle’s signature scent even before he picks up the jar.

He reaches for one instinctively, already familiar with the weight. The glass is thick and cool, swirled in dark tortoiseshell patterns that catch the ambient light like flickers of fire trapped beneath the surface. Inside, the wax is pale, smooth, and triple-wicked.

Without thinking, he holds it out just under Taehyung’s nose. “Here.”

Taehyung leans in, hands still tucked in his pockets, and dips his head to inhale. There's the smallest twitch of his nose as he processes each layer of scent.

“Oh, wow. This smells really nice.”

The scent is amber, vetiver, blackcurrant, and something faintly woody beneath it all. Earthy without being heavy, sweet without being cloying. It's balanced enough not to clash with a nest's natural scent, but distinctive enough to actually make a difference in the space.

“It’s layered,” Jungkook says, more to the candle than to Taehyung. “Opens a little sharp, but mellows out once it burns for a bit. The throw is decent, not too overpowering in small spaces. Good for bedrooms or nests.”

Taehyung listens attentively, cradling the jar in both hands. “It smells expensive.”

“It is,” Jungkook says. “But worth it. The wax is soy-based so it burns cleaner. And the jar doesn’t heat up too fast, so you don’t scorch the scent profile.”

He only realizes he’s been rambling when he looks up and catches Taehyung watching him, mouth slightly parted in quiet focus. His lashes cast delicate shadows over his cheekbones, the angles of his face softened by the warm light.

“What?” Jungkook asks, instantly on edge.

Taehyung shakes his head slightly, a smile tugging at his lips. “I was just impressed… Not like I was underestimating you or anything. I know you know your stuff. It’s just…” he scratches lightly at his jaw, “I’ve never thought that much about candles before. So hearing all that… was actually really helpful.”

Jungkook chokes a little as he swallows, as if the compliment had caught somewhere in his throat and refused to go down easy. “Thanks,” he mutters, masking it with a vague hum as he reaches blindly for another candle on the shelf.

His hand lands on one he already owns. The glass is matte cream, smooth to the touch, with a soft gold foil label that reads ‘ Bloomveil .’

His fingers trace the edge of the label, eyes skimming the familiar text with exaggerated interest he doesn’t quite feel. He doesn’t look at Taehyung, but his ears, traitorous as ever, bloom faintly pink at the tips.

“It’s Bloomveil . I have one in my collection as well,” Jungkook says, voice surprisingly calm. “It’s creamy, kind of lush. Smells delicate and sweet. There’s notes of peony, rose, jasmine, and… lily of the valley, if I remember correctly.”

Taehyung hums and places the previous candle carefully back on the shelf. Then he reaches out and takes the one from Jungkook’s hand, fingers brushing Jungkook’s lightly as he does.

He lifts the jar and inhales. His lashes flutter once. Then his eyes widen, just a fraction and barely enough to notice before his expression smooths over.

“Oh,” he says. “This kind of smells like…” His words die off as he takes another breath, deeper this time. When Jungkook finally looks up, color has crept high across Taehyung's cheekbones, and their eyes meet for just a moment before Taehyung quickly looks away.

Jungkook squints. “Smells like what?”

“Nothing,” Taehyung replies quickly, setting the candle down like it’s hot and might burn him. “It’s nice. Sweet. Like… spring, maybe.”

“You were about to say something else.”

Taehyung shrugs, still not meeting his eyes. “Just reminded me of something.”

But Jungkook already knows. He can tell by the careful way Taehyung's avoiding his gaze. The scent is a little too close to his own. Peony and something sweet that people always say reminds them of honey stirred into tea. Especially when he's happy.

“Um.” Jungkook runs a hand through his hair. “So what does your sister like?”

“She likes clean scents. Wears a lot of floral perfumes and woodier stuff too. So maybe something floral, or something with a little depth to it. She told me once that she wants her room to smell like walking through a field after it rains. Which sounds nice. But I had no idea what to do with that.”

“Then Shadow Noir ’s can be a perfect choice for her, no? Fresh, not too heady. But we can check out the other stuff before deciding. You might find something she’d like even more.”

“Yeah, sounds great. Maybe I’ll find something for myself too,” Taehyung muses, his scent getting sweeter as Jungkook sees excitement in his eyes.

Taehyung trails a step behind at first but matches Jungkook's pace easily, following his lead when Jungkook points out another bestseller or sniffs at a scent he thinks his sister might like. The alpha doesn't pretend to know more than he does and happily listens to Jungkook’s opinion.

Jungkook nearly forgets, for a moment, why he’d been so put off by Taehyung in the first place.

Then he picks up a diffuser from the sale shelf and recoils instantly. “This smells like I'm licking a battery. What the hell is ‘ Winter Static ’?”

Jungkook bites his lip, laughter bubbling up in his chest. “Oh, yeah, that’s from their ‘ Experimental Atmosphere ’ collection. Limited run, and probably for the best.”

“I mean no offense to people who like it, but… ugh .” Taehyung holds the bottle at arm’s length like it might attack him. “Who thought this was a good idea?”

“Right? I don't know what they were going for, but they definitely missed.”

That earns Jungkook a soft nudge to the shoulder. He startles at the touch, and Taehyung, damn him, doesn't even seem to notice. He's already moving on, still half-ranting as he strolls toward the next display.

Jungkook follows, confused and betrayed by the smile threatening at the corners of his mouth.

Shit .

How did he end up in this situation?

They loop back toward the register eventually, arms fuller than they started. Taehyung decides on ' Shadow Noir ' and ' Bloomveil ', the second one slipped into the small wooden basket Yoonji gave them when she returned to ask if they needed anything else.

Jungkook sees it, of course, but he pretends not to notice. Better not to dwell on the fact that Taehyung picks up a candle that smells almost exactly like him and adds it to the shopping basket without comment.

Does he like my scent?

The thought creeps in uninvited, weaving itself into the already tangled mess of Jungkook's feelings. He pushes it aside and focuses instead on the items in his own hands. A travel-sized linen spray and a new essential oil for his diffuser that he hadn't planned on getting but liked too much to resist.

“You’re getting those too?” Taehyung asks once they’re ready to pay, gesturing at the things in Jungkook’s hands.

Jungkook sets his own things down, spacing them a little apart from Taehyung's. “Yeah. I’ve been meaning to get more stuff. Just for myself.”

There’s a little bit of hesitation before Taehyung turns to the cashier and says, “Put those with mine, please.”

“Wait, what?”

“It’s a thank-you. For helping me.” Taehyung's expression grows almost pleading, like he won't take no for an answer.

Jungkook reaches for his items before the cashier can scan them. “That's not necessary. You don’t have to, hyung—”

“I know,” Taehyung replies, one hand coming up between them to make Jungkook pause. “But I want to.”

“I know you’re capable of paying them yourself, but that doesn't mean you can't let someone do something nice for you, right, Jungkook? Please? You helped me today. I just want to return the favor.”

Jungkook's stomach does a little flip. Why is Taehyung doing this? Why is he being so nice? Is there some ulterior motive? Or is he just genuinely like this? Jungkook isn't sure anymore. He's spent so much time convinced Taehyung was the type of alpha he couldn't stand, but now, even he himself finds it harder to believe that's true.

He lets out a reluctant huff. “Fine. But next time, I'm paying.”

“You’re already planning a next time?” Taehyung grins, and Jungkook, against his will, notices the perfect set of teeth he has. Does this man have any flaws? Even the cashier looks a little charmed. Not that Jungkook can blame him.

Jungkook wants to kick his own shin. Curl up on the floor. Maybe pray for the heavens to open up and spare him the sheer embarrassment still coursing through his body.

Of course, none of that happens. So instead, he focuses on the shelves of displays behind the counter, willing his pulse to settle.

This has to be karma. For all the times he badmouthed Taehyung and ranted to Jimin about how smug and unbearable he was.

Maybe he's the asshole in this story.

Taehyung turns out to be… chill. Not smug. Not a show-off. Not even close to what Jungkook had pegged him for, and Jungkook hates the sting of his own bias more than anything else.

Taehyung listens while the cashier explains the store's membership perks. Discounts, seasonal vouchers, early access to product drops. He nods along, asks a question or two, and actually seems interested in the answers.

Jungkook lingers nearby, still unsure how he got dragged into this. He wasn't even supposed to be here today. But watching Taehyung thank the cashier by name after reading his badge, how he doesn't fidget or check his phone or act like this interaction is beneath him, makes Jungkook realizes fate has had enough of his petty grudge and decided he needs to see for himself what Kim Taehyung is really like.

Jungkook learns that he’s wrong about a lot of things.

Maybe this won’t be the last time he ends up here—next to Kim Taehyung.

🎞

Every second the elevator climbs toward the seventh floor, the dread in Jungkook's stomach sinks deeper. In the taxi, he finally checks his phone for the first time all day. His notifications are a mess, mostly messages from Jimin, dozens of them stacked on top of each other like something urgent happened. Which, knowing Jimin, could range from an actual emergency to sending him real-time reactions while bingeing a new drama.

But when Jungkook opens the first message, his stomach drops. It’s a link to a post with a photo clearly taken from inside Scentery. The person must’ve been far enough for neither him nor Taehyung to notice, standing somewhere between shelves and probably pretending to browse the items there.

The angle is slightly off and tilted like it was taken in a hurry. He and Taehyung are mid-laugh, standing near the display wall. Taehyung's shoulder pressed against his, Jungkook's head thrown back just enough that you can see the line of his throat.

The flood of texts makes sense now.

Jimin Hyung

JUNGKOOK??????? AND KIM TAEHYUNG??????

What are you not telling meeee?

I vividly remember you ranting about how annoying he is for wearing the same sleeveless shirt in multiple videos, and then hitting me when I said ‘maybe he has a washing machine’?

 ARE YOU REALLY HANGING OUT WITH THE GUY YOU SAID PISSES YOU OFF??

JUNGKOOK.

JEON JUNGKOOK.

How. Why. When. Where. WHAT???

Please I need details ASAP!!

Great, you're ignoring me…

Which probably means you’re enjoying his company, huh ;)

And it just keeps going. Screenshots of fans already dissecting the photo, speculating about collabs, zooming in to see if either of them are holding a camera, and even analyzing their body language.

Jungkook stares at the screen, blood draining from his face. His brain scrambles for a response but he’s quite literally speechless.

Last night, he was dragging Taehyung’s name to hell and back. Today, fans caught him mid-laugh with the same alpha in one of his favorite stores.

Jimin is never going to let this go. Not in a million years.

But that’s not even the worst part. The worst part is, now the world knows he knows Kim Taehyung.

The apartment door beeps as he punches in the code, and he can already hear Jimin's footsteps padding toward the entrance. When Jungkook finally looks up, Jimin's leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed, that insufferable knowing smirk already spreading across his face.

“Don’t even start, hyung,” Jungkook kicks off his shoes harder than necessary. “Don't even fucking start.”

“I wasn't going to say anything—”

“Bullshit.” Jungkook drops onto the couch like his bones have given up, grabbing the nearest throw pillow to smother himself with. His muffled scream comes out as more of a dying whale sound.

The couch dips as Jimin settles on the other end. “Are you done having your breakdown, or should I come back later?”

“Fuck you.” Jungkook flips him off without removing the pillow.

“I didn’t even say anything!” Jimin smacks him lightly on the leg.

“You already said plenty in those texts. This is officially the worst day of my entire existence.”

“Really? You looked like you were having a great time, Jungkook.”

“Hyung, please.” Jungkook presses the pillow deeper into his face. “I’m sure my manager's already seen it. He's probably drafting my termination letter right now. This is it. This is how my career dies.”

Jimin's laugh is sharp and disbelieving. "Your career? Jungkook, you’re being unreasonable right now. I’m sorry they took secretive photos of you, but you won’t be jobless because of this.”

“I know, but this still sucks.” Jungkook finally emerges from his pillow cocoon, hair sticking up at odd angles. “Let me be unreasonable for a while… this is my coping mechanism for now.”

Jimin's expression softens, but only slightly. "Fine. Be dramatic. But you're still gonna tell me how the hell you ended up in that store with Taehyung."

“Okay, fine. It's a mess.” He runs his hands through his already disheveled hair. “But it's not like I planned any of this.”

So Jungkook recounts the entire thing. The unexpected encounter, how he got dragged into helping Taehyung find a gift and ended up at Scentery picking out candles like they'd planned the whole day and not just bumped into each other on a random afternoon.

“And then some random person took a photo,” Jungkook finishes, slumping back into the couch cushions. “Now everyone thinks we're friends or something.”

“Are you not?”

Jungkook opens his mouth, then closes it. “I don't know. Maybe? It's complicated.”

“Complicated how?”

“Because—” Jungkook groans. "Because he's actually nice, hyung. Like, genuinely nice. Not fake nice, not alpha-trying-to-impress nice. Just... normal nice."

“So, to summarize, Taehyung is a really nice person?”

Jungkook sits up and crosses his legs. "Yeah.”

“That’s great, then, no? I mean I told you he’s not evil.”

“Yes, I know, hyung. I'm wrong, you're right, the world is right. He's not a terrible person. I was being really childish. But I'm still annoyed by him, okay? Maybe he's putting on a face or something. Maybe—”

"You don’t even believe that."

“No. I don't.” Jungkook's voice goes petulant. “This is something I should probably unpack with my therapist. Why I had such intense negative feelings toward someone I barely knew. Ugh, I feel like shit about it.”

“But you can talk to me first.” Jimin reaches over to pinch his cheek, ignoring Jungkook's swat. “Come on, aren't you at least a little relieved?”

“I guess... I just hate that he's so—” Jungkook gestures helplessly. “Charming. It's annoying.”

Jimin's grin turns wicked. “And really pretty? Tall? Smells good? Funny? What else did you notice?”

“How do you—” Jungkook cuts himself off. “You know what? I have the right to end this conversation and go take a shower.”

“So his smile is as annoying as you said it was on the video?”

"So his smile isn't as insufferable as you claimed when you saw that interview?"

Jungkook stands up and gives Jimin a solid shove on his way past, which only makes his hyung laugh harder.

He pauses at his bedroom door, hand on the handle. “I'm invoking my right to remain silent.”

The door shuts with a decisive click, muffling Jimin's continued laughter.

🎞

Jungkook isn't exactly the most predictable when it comes to his online presence outside of his regularly scheduled video drops across platforms, especially YouTube. He takes pride in being consistent with his pre-recorded content, something the silver play button gleaming on the shelf in his recording room affirms. But everything else? A complete toss-up.

Some weeks, he floods his followers with livestreams, bouncing from karaoke to reaction videos, then cooking or even folding laundry while chatting like he's on a call with friends. Other times, he disappears entirely, going offline to recharge or focus on other projects.

This time, his radio silence lasts long enough that his manager calls.

“I got an email from a very worried Taehyung asking if you could please check the DM he sent you… five days ago.”

Jungkook blinks down at his phone, thumb hovering over the screen. He's still wearing the same hoodie he's been living in since yesterday. He hasn't opened Instagram in days since those pictures of him and Taehyung hanging out started circulating online.

Now, sprawled across his unmade bed with one leg half-tucked under a blanket, he finally opens the app and navigates to his inbox. Taehyung's message isn't in the main tab. It's buried in requests, because Jungkook still hasn't followed him back.

He taps on Taehyung's profile and clicks the follow button before he can lose his nerve. The familiar photo stares back at him. Taehyung in soft lighting against a yellow backdrop, chin tilted just so, from that recent shoot he'd posted across all his platforms. Jungkook recognizes it immediately, the same header he'd noticed on YouTube and definitely hadn't stared at for an embarrassing amount of time.

— @thv

Thanks again for helping me pick a gift for my sister.

And… I’m sorry someone took that picture without us knowing.

It’s kind of my fault for dragging you out to shop with me.

Jungkook feels guilty when he realizes Taehyung had reached out immediately, probably while Jungkook was spiraling and avoiding the entire internet. He clicks his tongue, frustrated with the whole situation. Neither of them did anything wrong. If anything, the photo is harmless. Just two people shopping and laughing together. But the fact that Taehyung feels responsible for it, makes everything worse.

— @mnijungkook

It’s not your fault so don’t think it’s your fault, okay?

Some people just can’t mind their own business, Taehyung.

Are you okay? I hope no one’s bothering you… sorry I didn’t check messages for days. I wasn't ignoring you on purpose.

Taehyung's response comes faster than expected.

— @thv

No, I’m okay. I haven’t seen anything too bad… fortunately

Just… a lot of people asking me to collab with you.

But you’re super busy, right?

Jungkook leans his head back against his bed frame, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

— @mnijungkook

Wdym? You're probably busier than me these days, Taehyung-ssi.

— @thv

I thought we were past formalities, Jungkook? You called me hyung when we were at the store, remember?

Also I didn’t know you’re aware of my activities these days :D

“Shit.” Jungkook gnaws at his bottom lips, regretting sending that message without thinking. He definitely doesn’t want Taehyung to know he’s caught up on nearly everything he’s posted lately. At least not yet. And definitely not why he started watching in the first place.

He needs to deflect. Fast.

— @mnijungkook

So I can continue to call you hyung, then?

It's a weak redirect, but he sends it anyway, deliberately ignoring the part about keeping up with Taehyung's activities.

— @thv

Only if you want to… I’m not a stickler, honestly :)

Which, of course, makes Jungkook feel like he should use the honorifics. But instead of spiraling, he changes the subject again before his brain starts overthinking it.

— @mnijungkook

When’s your sister’s birthday again?

— @thv

Next week. I already wrapped her gift last night ^^

I’m really excited to give it to her. I think she’s gonna love it :)

The enthusiasm in Taehyung's messages is infectious. Jungkook finds himself smiling as he pictures it. Taehyung sitting cross-legged on his bedroom floor, surrounded by wrapping paper scraps and ribbon curls, probably with his tongue poking out in concentration. Maybe there's a handwritten card tucked inside too.

— @mnijungkook

Nice. What about the other candle? Have you tried it yet?

— @thv

Yeah. It smells really good.

I’m holding myself back not to light it for too long, hahah. It makes me sleepy somehow…

Jungkook's fingers hover over the keyboard, ready to respond, when he notices the typing indicator appear. It flickers up, then gone, then back again. He waits, curious about what Taehyung might be hesitating to say.

Outside his window, a siren wails faintly in the distance before fading into the city's ambient noise. His room feels quieter somehow, like the world has narrowed down to just him and the glowing screen in his hands.

— @thv

Would it be okay if I ask for your number?

I just think it’s easier than talking here.

You can say no ofc!

Jungkook stares at the message, his phone suddenly feeling warm against his palms. The air conditioner hums overhead, stirring the curtains by his window. He shifts position, sitting up properly against the headboard with the pillow wedged behind his back, blanket pooling around his waist.

His heart does a little stupid flutter in his chest, and Jungkook ignores it, thinking about how dramatic he's being for what should be a simple exchange of contact information.

— @mnijungkook

Sure :)

He types out his number and sends it before he regrets his decision. Jungkook stares at the tiny check mark for a moment. If someone had told him last week that he’d be handing over his number to Kim Taehyung willingly , he would’ve laughed. 

Now, he's pressing the device to his chest where his heart hammers against his ribs. He’s one second away from screaming into his pillow and running to Jimin’s room for advice when his screen lights up with a new message.

His screen lights up with a new message before he can do either.

[unknown number]

It’s me :)

[Photo Attached]

The image loads to reveal a fluffy Pomeranian sprawled across a couch cushion like absolute royalty, one tiny paw resting on a tablet screen where Jungkook's face is frozen mid-laugh in a paused video.

Jungkook coos at how cute the dog looks. He tugs the blanket up over his lap and shifts onto his side, phone cradled in one hand, cheek pressed lightly into the cold pillow. He stares at the photo longer than he means to, contemplating whether he should save the photo or not.

Well, fuck it. Jungkook saves the photo before adding Taehyung’s contact to his phone.

Taehyung Hyung

Yeontan loves watching your stuff with me

Also critiques my editing skills apparently

JK

He’s cute, so he’s allowed to be a little judgy

I just hope he doesn’t think my videos are boring :(

Taehyung Hyung

Are you kidding? No way

I think he likes your voice, actually

Falls asleep to your cooking videos once

JK

Well, Yeontan has excellent taste then

The conversation flows easier than it should, drifting from Yeontan's favorite things to watch, to Taehyung mentioning he's been looking into upgrading his filming setup. When he asks about lighting recommendations, Jungkook finds himself typing an offer before his self-preservation instincts can kick in.

JK

If you want, I can come with you next week to help you choose :)

I know some good places

A knock at his door interrupts before he can send a follow-up message.

“Jungkook-ah, have you eaten? Should we order something?”

Jimin's voice makes him jolt upright, nearly fumbling his phone. He quickly locks the screen as the door creaks open.

“Chicken or pizza?” Jimin leans against the doorframe, scrolling through his own phone. “But I kind of want rice too…”

“Um, I mean, anything’s fine, really,” Jungkook's voice comes out slightly strangled. His eyes dart to his phone, making sure it's definitely locked.

It's ridiculous. He's a grown adult, not a teenager hiding texts from his parents. Jimin can't even see his screen from across the room. But something about this feels private. He doesn’t want to admit he’s texting Taehyung since it would require explanations he's not ready to give to his hyung.

“You sound weird,” Jimin observes, but he's already distracted, listing menu options as he wanders back toward the kitchen. “Five minutes to decide or I'm ordering whatever I want!”

Jungkook uses the reprieve to check his phone. Taehyung has already responded.

Taehyung Hyung

Really?? That would be amazing ദ്ദി ˉ͈̀꒳ˉ͈́ )✧

Thank you, Jungkook-ah

JK 

I'll send you some good store locations later

Need to help Jimin hyung order food before he picks something terrible

Taehyung Hyung

Haha go take care of that

Thanks again, Jungkook

Jungkook slips the phone into his hoodie pocket and finally drags himself out of bed. His reflection in the dresser mirror is exactly as disheveled as expected. Messy hair, wrinkled clothes, the general appearance of someone who's been avoiding the world for days.

As he heads toward Jimin's increasingly impatient voice, he tries to analyze what just happened. The defensive walls he'd built up over months of assumptions have developed cracks. Perhaps, have crumbled and turned to dust by this point, and he's not entirely sure what to name this feeling.

Only time will tell if this is a good idea. But for now, it doesn't feel like a mistake. If Jungkook is being completely honest, part of him really wants to make up for how little credit he gave Taehyung in the beginning.

Maybe Jungkook doesn’t mind how this new friendship is unfolding. Maybe he doesn’t mind the idea of Taehyung being part of his world now.

🎞

“Where the fuck are you going this early in the morning?” Jimin appears out of nowhere, hair sticking up in every direction.

Jungkook nearly spits out the water he’s chugging. “Fuck—hyung, I thought you stayed at your boyfriend’s place.”

Jimin yawns and leans against the nearest wall, one eye still half-closed. “Nope. Namjoon-hyung has to work early.”

It takes a few more blinks before Jimin's brain catches up to what he's seeing. Jungkook isn't in his usual morning uniform of wrinkled pajamas and bedhead. He's in ripped jeans that hug his thighs, a fitted black tee, a denim jacket, and a plain black beanie pulled low over his hair.

“You’re wearing makeup.”

“I am,” Jungkook says. “How is that a new thing?”

“No, I mean…” Jimin steps closer, narrowing his eyes as he further inspects Jungkook’s appearance. “You’re wearing makeup. You dressed up. You’re wearing your expensive-ass Tom Ford cologne... Are you—”

“I’m not going on a date!” Jungkook cuts in fast.

"I didn't even say the word 'date,'" Jimin says, clearly delighted by the reaction.

Jungkook groans and brushes past Jimin, snatching his bag off the sofa. “Also, it's not early. It's almost eleven, hyung.”

“Still counts as morning in my book,” Jimin calls after him, trailing behind like a curious cat. “Seriously though, where are you going? Filming outside?”

"No, I'm just accompanying..." Jungkook mumbles as he crouches to tie his combat boots, hoping if he speaks quietly enough, Jimin will lose interest and wander off to find coffee.

Of course, Jimin crouches right beside him instead, close enough that Jungkook catches the lingering trace of Namjoon's woody scent mixed with Jimin's usual sweet peach scent.

"Accompanying who?" Jimin nudges his shoulder.

“What?” Jimin nudges.

“Taehyung needs a new ring light for his setup, so I'm helping him pick one out,” Jungkook says in a rush, focusing intently on his laces.

Jimin's smile spreads like a sunrise. His scent somehow gets even sweeter, practically radiating satisfaction. “Wow. I'm genuinely happy for you, Jungkook-ah.”

Jungkook finishes with his boots and raises an eyebrow. “That I'm finally getting some vitamin D?”

“No, you absolute walnut,” Jimin rolls his eyes fondly. “That you're hanging out with someone who isn't me for once. And Taehyung too? God, give me some caffeine and I'll have enough energy to properly tease you about this.”

“Well, good thing I didn't make any coffee then.”

“Betrayal!” Jimin gasps dramatically, slumping to the floor like he's been mortally wounded. “You always make coffee in the morning and your coffee tastes better than mine.”

“I was busy getting ready, hyung.” Jungkook can't quite hide his smile. “Besides, Taehyung and I are grabbing coffee together.”

“ Aaah, ” Jimin draws out the sound. “Are you absolutely positive this isn't a date?”

Jungkook double-checks his laces and gently nudges Jimin with his foot. “Yes, I'm sure. Now be honest, do I look okay?”

Jimin looks up from his dramatic floor pose as Jungkook stands and smooths down his jacket. “Okay? You look great , Jungkook. Love the eyeshadow. Is that the one we bought last time?”

“Yeah.” Jungkook opens his phone camera for one final check, tilting his face to catch the light. “Did I overdo it?”

“Not even close. You look perfect.” Jimin extends his hand expectantly, and Jungkook takes it to pull him up from the floor. “Seriously.”

“Okay, then.”

"Okay, then," Jimin parrots back. “Are you nervous?”

“Kind of. I feel terrible about how I acted before. I made all these assumptions about him without even trying to get to know him, and then I was weird and standoffish when he first approached me. I just…” Jungkook fidgets with his jacket button. “I want to make up for it, you know? Treat him better.”

“Aww, you really are soft-hearted, Jungkook-ah. Don’t overthink it. Just relax and have fun, alright?”

“Thanks, hyung.”

“Now go before you’re late.” Jimin makes shooing motions toward the door. “I’m making coffee. I’ll probably head out to eat later, but I’ll most likely be home when you’re back.”

“Okay. Bye, hyung!” Jungkook calls over his shoulder as he heads for the door.

🎞

Relax and have fun, Jimin had said. Easier said than done.

Jungkook slows his pace as the coffee shop comes into view, spotting Taehyung already waiting outside. The alpha leans against the brick wall, white tank top stark against the weathered surface, arms crossed that makes his shoulders look impossibly broad. The afternoon sun cuts sharp angles across his skin, highlighting the definition in his biceps.

A cluster of college students passes by, and Jungkook can hear their excited whispers of “ Oh my god, it’s Kim Taehyung! ”. The alpha offers them a polite wave, completely oblivious to how the simple gesture makes his muscles shift beneath golden skin.

Jungkook nearly walks straight into a lamppost.

He adjusts his jacket that he realizes is too warm for the weather, and forces himself to take slower steps. A mistake, because now Taehyung has spotted him and pushes off the wall with fluid grace, closing the distance between them.

A faint breeze picks up Taehyung’s scent., and for a second, it feels like Jungkook is heading toward a tea shop instead of a place that serves espresso.

This shouldn’t be affecting him like this.

Jungkook adjusts the strap of his bag on his shoulder. He thinks to himself, it’s fine. Everything is fine and he just needs to take a deep breath.

“Hey,” Taehyung greets cheerfully.

“Hey.” The word scrapes past Jungkook's suddenly dry throat.

Turns out taking a deep breath is a mistake. Up close, Taehyung’s scent is more concentrated and stronger. Like the first sip of creamy matcha with a rich taste. Jungkook tries his best to stay calm and wills his fingers to stop twitching at his sides.

“Why didn’t you wait inside?” Jungkook manages, stepping toward the coffee shop's entrance.

“Wanted to catch some sun.” Taehyung reaches the door first, pulling it open with one fluid motion. The stretch of his arm draws Jungkook's gaze before he can stop himself, eyes tracing the line of muscle from shoulder to wrist.

Taehyung catches him looking. His lips quirk upward, just barely.

Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck .

The coffee shop is busy at this hour with students hunched over laptops, friends catching up over iced lattes, and people in suits taking calls. Jungkook focuses on the familiar chaos, anything to ignore how hyperaware he is of Taehyung's every movement.

They order their drinks and wait at the pickup counter, continuing their conversation from last night about a show they started watching together. The barista—a girl with pink hair and bold cat eyeliner—leans forward as she calls out Taehyung's name, she gives a noticeably wider smile to Taehyung than the previous customer.

“Two iced americano.” She slides the cups across the counter, fingers grazing Taehyung's. “Enjoy!”

Something sharp and unwelcome twists in Jungkook's chest. He busies himself checking his phone until they find a table by the window.

“So,” Taehyung settles into his chair, long legs stretching beneath the small table. “You've been to that store before?”

“A few times.” Jungkook wraps his hands around his cup, savoring the cool condensation. “They have good equipment for the price. The employees know their stuff.”

“Good to know.” Taehyung takes a sip of his matcha, and Jungkook absolutely does not watch the way his lips curve around the straw.

They finish their drinks fifteen minutes later before heading back out to walk to the store they’re heading to. It sits wedged between a vintage bookstore and a closed small bar. An employee welcomes them and swiftly assists them to find the equipment they need.

“This is the one I mentioned.” Jungkook leads Taehyung to a display model of the LED Bi-Color Studio Light. “Dimmable with adjustable temperature, and reliable for the price.”

Taehyung examines the setup carefully, tilting the light toward the wall to test the diffusion. His forearms flex as he adjusts the stand, and Jungkook finds himself studying the way shadows play across his skin.

“Being able to change the white balance makes such a difference,” Jungkook continues, stepping closer. “Especially when you're filming in different spaces. I use mine constantly.”

“Yeah, I remember you mentioning that.” Taehyung glances up from the light controls. “In your setup tour video.”

Jungkook blinks. “You watched that?”

“You told me I should learn.” There's pride in Taehyung's voice, like he's pleased with himself for paying attention.

“Right. Good job.” Jungkook rolls his eyes, but he's fighting a smile. “Want to see how it looks on camera?”

“With your phone?”

“Yup.” Jungkook pats his pocket. “Phone's all I've got.”

Taehyung considers this, then squints at him with sudden mischief. “What if I try it on you instead?”

Before Jungkook can protest, Taehyung's already repositioning the light, motioning toward a nearby stool. “Just for a second.”

Jungkook hesitates, but then sits down, trying to look relaxed even though he feels anything but relaxed since he first left the apartment. The chair is too upright. He pretends to smooth down his jacket, but really he's trying to not to look at the alpha in front of him.

Taehyung fishes out his phone from his pants, and hits the record button. “Let’s see how it looks on video.” Taehyung's brow furrows in concentration, tongue pressed to his lower lip as he adjusts the brightness. “Chin up a little, please.”

Jungkook complies. The light washes over him, catching on the silver of his earring and turning his dark hair bronze at the edges. He tries his best not to fidget under Taehyung’s attention.

“Warm tones make you look…” Taehyung trails off, finger hovering over the temperature dial. “Softer? I think that’s the right word.”

“I—uh, thanks.” Jungkook pretends to fix his bangs, mostly to avoid eye contact.

Taehyung continues adjusting settings, eyes flicking between his phone screen and Jungkook's face. “Okay! We're doing a Q&A now.”

"What?"

“Don't worry, I'll delete it if you look stupid.” Taehyung hums, already sounding distracted as if he’s too busy thinking up the first question to give Jungkook time to argue.

“Alright, that’s totally reassuring,” Jungkook chuckles nervously, acutely aware of the camera pointed at him.

Around them, the shop continues its bustle with customers browsing, an employee deep in discussion about tripod mounts with another customer, and the soft instrumental track piping through the speakers.

Although for Jungkook, somehow it feels like he has slipped into his own little bubble with Taehyung.

“First question.” Taehyung slightly leans towards a nearby display case. “What do you always carry that no one knows about?”

Jungkook squints at him. “Are we really doing this?”

“Yes. Be honest. Come on, Jungkook.”

Taehyung clearly finds the whole thing amusing, and honestly, Jungkook is used to this kind of teasing. He lives with Park Jimin, after all. So he thinks, screw it, and decides to play along.

“Uh… a few hot sauce packets, I guess?”

“Wait, seriously?”

“Can’t risk bland food, hyung.”

“That’s actually smart.” Taehyung looks genuinely impressed. “Sometimes they really don't give you enough.”

He steps back slightly, adjusting his angle. "Next one, favorite time of day?"

“Evening. After I work out, when I'm home and clean from the shower.”

“Very specific, but I get it.” Taehyung's eyes drift upward, searching for his next question. “Favorite kind of gimbap?”

“Tuna.’ The answer comes without hesitation. “Definitely tuna gimbap.”

“Okay, last one.” Taehyung says, his thumb tapping against his phone screen. Probably adjusting the focus, or maybe stalling, just a little. “What was your initial thought and first impression of me?”

Well, shit, Jungkook thinks to himself.

Taehyung is still watching him. Expectant and curious. The store feels smaller all of a sudden, like the chatters of customers and soft overhead music has dulled to background static. All Jungkook can hear is the tap of his own heel against the base of the stool and his heartbeat.

What should he say? Lie? Dodge? Tell the truth and deal with the embarrassment?

“I thought you'd be arrogant,” he says finally.

“That's your initial thought?” Taehyung's eyebrows raise, but there's no offense in his expression.

Jungkook's muscles go taut with nerves, but he pushes forward. “But you're not. You're actually nice, polite, and thoughtful. That is my first impression of you.”

“So I exceeded expectations?” The teasing lilt in Taehyung's voice makes Jungkook want to hide behind his hands.

“Camera off.” Jungkook drags his palm down his face. “Remind me never to be honest with you again.”

Taehyung laughs, thumb moving to stop the recording. “Glad I proved you wrong.”

The store employee appears beside them. “You two doing alright?” The timing couldn't be more perfect. He unknowingly rescues Jungkook from his embarrassment.

“Perfect.” Taehyung straightens, slipping his phone away. “I'll take this one.”

“Great choice!”

As the clerk begins unplugging the display model, Taehyung turns back to Jungkook. “Thanks for the help. Should I credit you in my video description?”

“That’s unnecessary.” Jungkook waves him off, though pride blooms warm in his chest.

“You, uh… want to get bingsu after this? My treat.”

Jungkook is pleasantly surprised. He'd assumed Taehyung would head straight home with his new purchases. But the day has been... good. Better than good. And he's not quite ready for it to end. Apparently, neither is Taehyung.

“Sure,” Jungkook says, trying not to smile too wide. “That sounds good.”

🎞

The clouds have been gathering since noon, thickening across the sky in a slow, ominous crawl, but Jungkook doesn't notice. He's too caught up in framing the perfect shot, crouched low near the canal's edge with his compact gimbal camera—the same one he uses for every vlog, fitting snugly in his palm while his clip-on mic fastens to his hoodie collar.

He angles the camera toward the park pond, where soft ripples curl outward from a small fountain. Water burbles gently, the sound mixing rustling leaves and the occasional chirp of birds in the distance.

“Isn’t it nice?” Jungkook says in awe. “It’s so peaceful here.”

The camera tilts back toward his face. “Also, if you're sensitive to overwhelming smells like me, I genuinely recommend places like this. Usually you can only smell water, soil, and the plants around you.”

A large tree sways nearby as another breeze rolls through. Its heavy branches drag slightly under the weight of thick leaves, creating soft, scratchy whispers as they brush together. Jungkook lifts the camera to capture the movement, panning slowly upward.

Only then does he notice the grey stretching across what was once blue sky.

“Although in this park specifically,” he continues, half-ignoring the changing weather, “there’s a tiny bakery.”

He turns to show the quaint storefront behind him. Glass windows gleam with soft reflections—loaves of bread stacked high on wooden trays, bottled milk in tidy rows near the register, a chalkboard sign reading Locally Roasted Coffee in curled handwriting.

“Actually, there’s a few other small shops scattered around the park too.” He takes an exaggerated sniff. “But I can smell the bread from here. It smells so good, oh my god, I love the smell of butter.”

The camera swings back to his face. “I saw this bakery-scented room spray online once, and I was seriously debating buying it for my nest. But I didn't go through with it. I was afraid I'd always be hungry. Like, imagine trying to sleep and suddenly craving croissants at 2 a.m.”

Behind his smile, his arms begin to ache from holding the camera and how the tote bag hangs heavy on his shoulder. Overstuffed with his thick metal tumbler, extra mic pouch, charger cables he probably won't need, umbrella, and a small sketchbook with drawing utensils. The strap has been digging into his shoulder for the past half hour.

The wind picks up again, teasing hair across his eyes. As he lifts his hand to brush the strands away, a sharp snap cuts through the air.

Jungkook freezes. The tote strap gives way completely, his shoulder jolting as weight shifts and the bag slides off, hitting the ground with a soft but jarring thud.

“No—” he scrambles forward, too late.

His tumbler rolls several feet before tipping sideways with a metallic clink. A mic pouch pops half open, its fuzzy cover falling onto the concrete. The sketchbook tumbles out, pages fluttering like a broken-winged bird. His wallet stays lodged at the bottom, probably pinned by tangled cables. The umbrella rolls dangerously close to the pond's edge before stopping.

Jungkook stares at the mess, then he lets out a long, exasperated sigh. “Great.”

Thunder rumbles overhead, closer than expected. Cold raindrops hit his cheeks. Then the sky opens. Rain pours fast and heavy, slapping against pond, pavement, his camera screen, scattered belongings, and his hoodie. Water soaks through fabric in seconds, darkening everything indiscriminately.

Jungkook fumbles with the camera, quickly tucking it into his hoodie pocket. He drops to his knees to gather what he can, fingers moving frantically over damp concrete. His tumbler survived, scuffed but sealed. The mic cover is ruined, drenched and dirt-speckled. The sketchbook is worse with the corner pages already warped, and ink beginning to blur.

His hair clings to his face, soaked through. Cold water creeps under his collar and seeps into his sleeves, spreading like ice through fabric. Drenched jeans stick to his knees as he squats, gathering everything into his arms, muttering curses while trying to fit it all back into the useless tote.

Once everything is picked up from the ground, Jungkook brushes rain from his eyes, blinking up at the grey blur of sky like it personally betrayed him. Then he straightens, hugging the collapsed bag to his chest, and makes a dash for cover.

The bakery door jangles as he reaches it. He nearly collides with another man stepping inside, barely sidestepping in time, his soaked sneaker sliding across slick tile.

“Shit, I’m sorry—” Jungkook looks up.

A familiar scent hits him before recognition does.

Taehyung stands in the doorway, rain plastering curls flat against his forehead, droplets trailing down his jaw and neck, soaking into his dark green jacket collar. Wide eyes meet Jungkook's.

“You—”

Jungkook stares half a second longer than necessary, then blurts, “What are you doing here?”

“Taking a walk. Didn't know you were around.”

Jungkook shifts the tote higher against his chest. “I was vlogging.”

His hand dives into his hoodie pocket, wrapping around the camera’s smooth body. “Wait, oh my god.” He pulls it out, tilting the screen toward himself. “I think my camera's still recording.”

Rainwater drips from his cuff onto the buttons as he fumbles to stop recording. He sighs, shoving the device back into his pocket. It probably caught everything, from his bag breaking to crashing into Taehyung in a soggy, windblown mess.

Taehyung laughs under his breath, stepping aside so Jungkook can fully slip into the bakery. Warm air envelops them instantly, thick with the smell of fresh bread and butter. The bakery worker glances up from behind the counter, looking at them curiously, but says nothing.

“What a coincidence, huh?”

Jungkook presses a hand to the front of his hoodie, where it clings uncomfortably to his skin.“I was filming that tree over there. My bag suddenly broke, then…” He gestures helplessly at himself. “Rain. So I just ran.”

“Yikes, bad luck.” Taehyung makes an apologetic face.

“I know, ugh.”

“I didn’t know you’d be here.” Taehyung glances toward the street where rain still sheets down in thick curtains.

“Me either—um, is it alright to stay here for a while?” Jungkook finally addresses the bakery worker, guilt prickling as he notices the small puddle forming near his shoes.

“Totally fine! Nasty weather out there, so just wait it out.” The woman says before returning to her tasks.

So they wait.

Rain continues for another five minutes, drumming against the awning outside. Jungkook presses his back to the wall, absorbing whatever residual warmth the bakery offers. He keeps glancing at Taehyung, who leans against the opposite side of the entryway, arms folded, wet hair shining under the bakery light.

He looks like a dog that's been hosed down. A very handsome, slightly tragic dog.

“What?” Taehyung catches the stare.

Jungkook bites back a grin. “You look like a wet dog.”

Taehyung's jaw drops in mock offense. “Hey. You’re looking in the mirror right now, Jungkook.”

“Okay, but I’m at least a stylish wet dog.”

“Stylish?” Taehyung scoffs, eyes dropping to Jungkook's drooping hoodie and tangled hair. “I'd use the word cute wet dog, honestly.”

Jungkook's head falls back against the wall, laughing. “Fine, I'll give you the stylish wet dog title then.”

Twenty minutes later, the rain softens from sharp drumming to steady drizzle, but wind remains restless. Cold continues creeping through damp layers despite his awkwardly wedged bag, and he can't stop the small shiver running down his spine.

He looks up to find Taehyung watching, brows furrowed with concern. Before Jungkook can ask him what’s wrong, Taehyung's already moving toward the counter.

“Wait here. I’ll get you something warm.”

Jungkook watches as Taehyung greets the worker, his laugh filling the bakery though Jungkook can't hear what prompted it.

“Maybe just... anything warm? Yes, tea is fine.” Taehyung reaches for his wallet. “And that cinnamon roll, please.”

Moments later, he returns carrying a paper bag and steaming cup.

“You can’t hold these right now.” His gaze takes in Jungkook's sorry state. “I’ll carry them.”

Jungkook doesn’t argue. “ Sorry you have to carry it for me, hyung.”

“That’s alright. This’ll warm you up. I also figured we owe the lady something for letting us stand here dripping.”

They both step a little further from the door. Jungkook glances at the cinnamon roll and tea in Taehyung's hand. The smell is impossible to ignore. Sweet and buttery. It makes his stomach growl audibly.

“I didn’t even realize I was hungry.” Jungkook’s voice comes out slightly hoarse from the cold.

“Ah, so that’s why you’re shivering. You haven’t eaten?”

Jungkook shakes his head. “I’m fine, though.”

“You’re not.” Taehyung looks toward the window, gauging the sky and the rain. It’s faded to a mist now, soft and steady. “My car’s not far. Come on, I’ll get you home. We can jog a little if you want.”

“I brought an umbrella.” Jungkook shifts his feet, adjusting his grip on the bag while reaching for it. “We can just walk,” he says, already reaching for it. He flicks it open smoothly, the fabric expanding with a soft whoosh.

“Alright. Walk it is.”

They step into drizzle together, Taehyung carefully holding tea and cinnamon roll while Jungkook tilts the umbrella to cover them both, his other hand gripping his broken bag. The city around them has softened with rainlight, air thick with wet earth and trailing bread scents.

By the time they reach the car, Jungkook exhales in relief. His arm aches from holding the broken tote, fingers stiff around the umbrella handle.

Taehyung unlocks the doors with a soft beep, walking around to place tea and the paper bag safely inside before returning to gently take the bag from Jungkook's arm.

“I got it.” He swings open the back door to lay the bag on the seat with more care than it probably deserves.

Jungkook folds the umbrella closed, giving it a quick shake before tucking it into the door's side pocket.

“Thank you, hyung,” he says when Taehyung opens the passenger door for him.

“You’re welcome, Jungkook-ah.” Taehyung climbs into the driver's side, turning the heater up. “Still feel super cold?”

“I’ll warm up once we drive,” Jungkook says, pulling his sleeves over his hands. “I think.”

Taehyung reaches into the backseat, rummaging for a moment before pulling out a blue hoodie.

“It’s dry. I mean—it’s not fresh from the laundry or anything.” He unfolds the hoodie, words tumbling out. “I wore it to the movie theater yesterday.”

He pauses, but continues anyway. "I always get cold there, so I brought it. But I didn't wear it the whole day or anything. Just during the movie. So it's clean. Not fresh-fresh, but... definitely not gross."

“That’s okay, hyung.”

His eyes flick toward Jungkook, then away again. “You can say no, of course.”

Jungkook stares at the hoodie. It looks soft and incredibly comfy. He can tell it’s clean and can help him feel warmer if he changed out of his soaked hoodie and into it.

He can tell that it’s clean and he’ll probably be a lot warmer if he changes his hoodie with Taehyung. But he also catches Taehyung’s scent on it. Soft and alluring. He hasn’t admitted it, not even to himself, but Jungkook likes the sweetness in the alpha’s scent.

His fingers tighten slightly around the damp fabric of his own hoodie. The thought of having an alpha’s scent on him makes him nervous. Not in a bad way, but god, since it’s Taehyung and he smells so good, Jungkook’s afraid his omega won’t want to let it go later.

Perhaps that’s something he can worry about later.

“I’ll take it,” he finally decides, reaching out to take the hoodie from Taehyung’s hand. Their fingers brush, soft and brief, sparking something low and traitorous in his belly.

“Oh,”  Realization hits Taehyung suddenly. His gaze lingers at Jungkook's waist, where damp hoodie has ridden up slightly as he prepares to pull it off. “Sorry. I’ll, um… I’ll close my eyes. Just let me know when you’re done.”

He turns his head and actually does it. He shuts his eyes tight and even covers them with both palms, fingers splayed across his face like a kid playing hide-and-seek, ensuring he absolutely cannot see anything.

Fuck.

This really shouldn't be the time to get turned on, but heat crawls up Jungkook's spine anyway. Taehyung had definitely been looking right at his waist. And not in a casual way.

Jungkook takes pride in his body. Especially his waist. It’s one of his best features, right up there with his eyes. He shouldn’t feel smug about it. But he kind of does.

“What am I thinking…” he whispers to himself.

When did it even get to this point? He’s always known Taehyung was hot. He’d been annoyingly aware of it even back when he still couldn’t stand him. But this? Heat under his skin just because Taehyung looked at him for a second too long?

Is he really starting to wonder if there’s something there? If Taehyung might actually be interested in him?

God. He’s in trouble.

Jungkook pulls off his wet hoodie with some struggle, hair falling forward in damp strands. Then he slips Taehyung’s over his head. It’s a little too big, hanging lower, sleeves brushing past his wrists, and the collar loose around his throat.

And it smells like Taehyung. So much so that it's almost dizzying. Every breath fills with it, like the scent is wrapping around him like a blanket.

“Okay.” Jungkook smooths down the fabric. “You can look now.”

Taehyung peeks through his fingers—then drops his hands fully. His gaze lands on Jungkook and stills. His scent spikes just slightly, and Jungkook catches it, smiling to himself.

“Wow,” Taehyung says after a beat, eyes trailing from Jungkook’s damp hair down to the hem of the hoodie. “That actually looks… really good on you.”

Jungkook flushes. “It’s just a hoodie.”

“It’s my favorite hoodie.” Taehyung leans back in his seat. “And it looks better on you. Seriously. Blue suits you.”

“Well. Thank you. For the hoodie and… the compliment.”

Taehyung reaches for the still-steaming tea from the cupholder. “Here, drink this before it gets cold.”

“Smells good.”

Then Taehyung reaches for the paper bag on the dashboard and sets it on Jungkook’s lap. “And eat the cinnamon roll.”

“Are you sure? I don’t want to get your car dirty…”

“Don’t worry about it.” Taehyung uncaps the tea lid for him. “If you’re cold and on an empty stomach, you’re more likely to get sick. So… just eat.”

Jungkook sips the tea and feels the warmth spread down his throat.It tastes floral and sweet. He takes a bite of cinnamon roll next, humming in delight as sweetness melts in his mouth.

Then he remembers.

Jungkook reaches for the camera he’d tucked beside him earlier and hits record. “I should probably end this properly,” he says, adjusting the angle. Then glances at Taehyung. “Do you mind being in it?”

Taehyung looks over. “Oh? Your vlog?”

“Yeah. I can’t just cut it with me getting soaked by rain.”

“Are you sure you want me in it?”

“Yeah. Why not?”

Words he probably wouldn’t have said weeks ago.

Taehyung smiles, quickly smooths his hair, trying to make himself presentable. “Alright, if you’re sure.”

“Hey guys,” Jungkook starts, half-laughing at the sight of himself on the small screen. Such a contrast to what he looked like at the beginning of the vlog. “it started pouring out of nowhere and I literally got saved by—”

He pans left. Taehyung turns with a polite little wave.

“Hello.”

“We were running for shelter in the bakery I showed you earlier. Taehyung even bought me tea and this cinnamon roll.”

He flashes the paper bag to the camera, then pans it back to himself.

 “Thank god I’m out of the rain. My bag literally snapped and… yeah, I’ll have to check if everything survived once I’m home.”

“Bye, vlog!” Taehyung calls from off-camera, cheerfully out of nowhere.

Jungkook laughs. “Everyone say bye to Taehyung.”

“Bye again!” Taehyung chimes louder.

Still smiling, Jungkook ends the recording and sets the camera aside.

“Alright,” Taehyung says, clicking his seatbelt into place. “Where am I taking you?”

Jungkook rattles off his address, and Taehyung nods, tapping it into the GPS just in case. Jungkook continues to munch on his cinnamon roll, the warmth of the tea still warming his chest, while Taehyung lets the silence settle between them.

By the time they pull up in front of Jungkook’s apartment building, the rain has stopped completely.

“I can walk up by myself.” Jungkook unbuckles his seatbelt quickly. “You don’t have to come all the way to the door or anything. Jimin, um, my roommate is home.”

Taehyung nods, but doesn’t move to leave. “Still. I don’t mind—”

“I’ll be okay,” Jungkook reassures. “Really.”

“Okay, don’t forget to take a hot shower.”

“I will,” Jungkook says, though his feet hesitate to move. He doesn’t want to leave just yet. “Thank you, Taehyung… please get warm once you’re home too, alright?”

“Don’t worry about me.”

Jungkook climbs out and waves once, then jogs to the entrance of his building. He tells himself not to look back, but he stops by the door anyway, just long enough to catch Taehyung pulling away from the curb. Only once the car disappears around the corner does he finally go inside and make his way to the elevator.

The faint, earthy scent of wet pavement trails behind him as he walks down the hallway.  He sets his broken bag down for a second to punch in the door code. Once it unlocks, he grabs the bag again and nudges the door open with his shoulder.

Warm hallway light spills into the entryway as he steps inside.

“Jungkook?” Jimin calls from the living room, followed by TV muting and quick footsteps across the hardwood floor.

“Hey, I’m—”

Jimin skids to a stop in the hallway. His eyes land on Jungkook, then immediately drop to the oversized hoodie hanging off his frame.

“That’s not your hoodie.”

Jungkook barely gets his shoes off before Jimin steps into his space, fingers tugging at the fabric. “I mean, it looks amazing on you. But that scent? That’s definitely not yours.”

Jungkook groans, tightening the hoodie around himself. “Taehyung lent it to me.”

“Oh my god, he let you borrow it?”

“I told him I’d wash it before giving it back.” Jungkook ignores the smile spreading across Jimin’s face, walking past him toward the kitchen to wash his hands.

“And what did he say?” Jimin bounces after him. “Did he say, ‘keep it as long as you want’?”

Jungkook doesn’t respond immediately.

Jimin’s jaw drops. “He did, didn’t he?!”

“It’s not that big of a deal.”

“Jungkook.” Jimin plants hands on his hips like a disapproving auntie. “That literally can be considered a courting gift. You are hoodie-scented, cinnamon roll-fed, and driven home in the rain!”

“Okay, you seriously need to chill, hyung.” Jungkook flicks remaining water from his hand at Jimin. “It’s not like that!”

Jimin lets out a squeal and flops dramatically onto the couch. “Oh my god. It’s happening. I’m witnessing history.”

“There’s nothing going on, hyung,” Jungkook tries to deflect. “Anyway, I need a shower.”

“After the shower, then. Oh! And what about your vlog? I’ll be here to hear the full story, Jungkook-ah!”

Jungkook doesn’t bother answering and just disappears into the bathroom. But the smile tugging at the corner of his mouth? That one’s impossible to hide.

Later, emerging from the shower with steam following behind and a towel covering wet hair, Jungkook glances at Taehyung's hoodie draped messily on his bed. He approaches his closet, hand already on the handle, but can't help missing Taehyung's scent.

His eyes flick to Taehyung’s hoodie lying messily on the bed. He should toss it into the laundry basket. But he keeps glancing at it, fighting the ridiculous urge to slip it back on like it belongs to him.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Jeon Jungkook.

He grabs a plain black hoodie from the closet and pulls it over his head, hoping it’ll distract him and tame the ridiculous desire curling in his chest. He walks over to the mirror, staring at his reflection like it might talk him out of a very stupid idea.

Before he realizes it, Jungkook is back by the bed, standing over the soft heap of fabric that is Taehyung’s hoodie. His fingers hover, barely brushing the cotton, and he inhales without thinking. There it is, Taehyung’s scent, subtle and comforting. He never realizes he liked green tea this much.

He stares at it for several seconds.

Maybe he can stay in his room for a while. Just long enough to indulge in this one harmless thing. Because the second he steps out that door, Jimin will have a million questions, and Jungkook knows he won't be able to answer a single one when he's wrapped up in Taehyung's hoodie.

God. He is hopeless. The worst part is, he doesn’t even want to fight it.

🎞

Jungkook's thumb hovers over the comment section, the glow of his phone screen painting shadows across his bedroom ceiling. He knows better and has learned through experience, that checking comments within the first hour is digital self-harm.

Usually, he waits and lets the initial wave of reactions come in. Only then he checks it to like and respond to some of them.

Tonight, curiosity wins.

The video uploaded barely an hour ago, and already the comment count climbs steadily. He knows what’s caught everyone’s attention.

Taehyung’s hoodie.

He knows it’s obvious he was wearing a different one during the outro of the vlog, and he did include Taehyung on screen to let the viewers know he was driving him home.

Jungkook just didn’t expect anyone to analyze it.

‘Wait, isn’t that Taehyung’s hoodie? He wore it during that Instagram live, right? Like, two weeks ago?’

‘Sharing clothes already? People on twt called me crazy that I had a feeling Taehyung would court Jungkook soon. NOW LOOK AT THIS.’

That last one makes Jungkook snort, even as his ears burn. They're wrong about the courting part, but he gets why it looks that way. They're building entire relationship timelines from one minute of footage. It was just a kind gesture from Taehyung, but Jungkook is well aware the internet thrives on these breadcrumbs and glimpses behind people’s personas.

But they're wrong about the courting. That much, at least, is fiction.

Jungkook sighs and turns onto his side, phone resting beside him.

He really isn’t a fan of people encrypting every move he makes. He likes sharing parts of his life, but not when it starts turning into a decoding puzzle for strangers. Especially when it involves someone else. Someone he’s starting to harbor feelings for.

Taehyung, who texts him just to ask if he’s eaten. Who sends dumb memes in the middle of the night. Who calls after long days just to talk about their day, only to hang up soon after because he never charges his phone and always has it at 15% whenever he calls. Who drags him out for barbecue and insists on paying, even when Jungkook protests.

Jungkook is honestly glad he was proven wrong, and deeply humbled by it. Taehyung continues to put in the work, day after day, building something genuine with his community. He’s thoughtful, humble, kind, and unapologetically himself.

Jungkook gets it now. He understands why people gravitate toward Taehyung so easily. Why his audience is so quick to adore him. Because Jungkook does too. More than he probably would admit.

That’s also why Jungkook is pacing around the living room, circling the coffee table like a restless cat, blocking the TV every few steps. Jimin doesn’t say anything at first, but after the fifth lap, he groans and grabs the remote.

“Would you please sit down, Jeon Jungkook?” The remote clicks with finality as Jimin abandons his drama entirely.

Jungkook freezes mid-stride, blocking the now-black TV screen. “Hyung, I’m nervous. I need to move .”

“You're going to burn a hole in the floor” Jimin pats the couch cushion beside him, voice gentle despite his exasperation. “It's not your first collab, Kook. You've done this dozens of times.”

“I know, it’s just—” The words tangle in his throat as he flops into Jimin's waiting arms, suddenly boneless. “This is Taehyungie hyung's first time coming here.”

“And so anyone who’s collabed with you?” Jimin deadpans.

“Yes. But it’s Taehyung .” The name comes out muffled against Jimin's shoulder.

“And you have a massive crush on him. Yes, I’m painfully aware.” Jimin's fingers card through Jungkook's hair, the touch soothing despite his teasing tone.

“Hyung!” The protest lacks any real heat.

Jimin shifts, propping his elbow on the backrest to meet Jungkook's eyes properly. “Taehyung is not a stranger anymore. You two are friends. You don’t have to do the awkward small talk thing or force a conversation. Filming with him should be fun.”

“Yeah… I guess half the nerves are excitement. I want this to go well.”

“You’re a professional. You’ll be fine.” Jimin just laughs, ruffling Jungkook’s hair. “What, worried you'll accidentally give him heart-eyes on camera?”

“I do not give him heart-eyes.”

“Oh, you do .”

“Hyung!”

“Okay, okay.” Jimin raises his hands in surrender.

The internet has been demanding this collab ever since that first blurry photo of them leaked months ago. Then again when Taehyung showed up on Jungkook’s vlog. So yeah, this one has been a long time coming.

They had gone back and forth about the idea. Taehyung pitched a co-op game, like Split Fiction . But Jungkook figured that’d be better suited for Taehyung’s content since the alpha started uploading himself playing games.

Eventually, they settled on something laid-back and more in line with Jungkook’s usual uploads.

“I just… I don't want to make it obvious, you know? I don't want him to feel weird about it. This is work. Professional.”

Jimin nods. “Mhm.”

“So I need to act normal.”

“Right.”

“Not flustered.”

“Sure.”

“And not laugh at everything he says even if it’s not funny—”

“Okay that you already do.”

Jungkook buries his face in his hands with a muffled groan. “Oh my god.”

“You’re fine,” Jimin soothes, patting his shoulder. “Just be yourself.”

“Right. Okay.” Jungkook pushes off the couch, nervous energy redirecting toward productivity. “Maybe I should double-check the DIY materials again. Make sure we have everything. Tae should be here soon—”

The doorbell rings.

“Shit.”

“Open the door, then!” Jimin waves him off.

Jungkook's feet tangle slightly as he scrambles toward the entrance, palms embarrassingly damp when he grips the handle. The door swings open to reveal Taehyung in a cream sweater that dips low enough to frame his collarbones, styled hair swept back to show his forehead. The scent hits Jungkook immediately, that cologne he'd complimented weeks ago, now achingly familiar.

“Hey,” the alpha says, holding out a plastic bag. “Figured you probably skipped lunch again, so…”

“What’s this?” Jungkook takes the plastic bag from Taehyung and peeks inside, brow furrowing until he sees a neatly wrapped foil bundle.

“Tuna gimbap.”

Jungkook’s jaw drops, the memory surfaces unbidden. That had been months ago. He never expected Taehyung to remember, especially not something from a silly Q&A they filmed just to test the lighting.

“You remembered that? Hyung, you really didn’t have to.”

“I wanted to,” Taehyung says simply.

“Are you going to introduce us?” Jimin's voice cuts through the moment as he appears in the hallway.

“Oh! Hey,” Taehyung greets, offering a small bow.

“Taehyung, this is Jimin-hyung,” Jungkook says quickly, stepping aside so they can shake hands.

“Finally,” Jimin says as he takes Taehyung’s hand. “I feel like I already know way too much about you.”

“Oh?” Taehyung laughs, curious. “How come?”

“Because Jungkook won’t shut up about you.”

“Hyung!” Jungkook groans.

Jimin ignores him. “Like, constantly. If he’s smiling at his phone? It’s always you. I’ve never seen anyone text back faster. Meanwhile, my texts stay unread for six hours.”

“I do not!” Jungkook protests.

Jimin waves him off. “It’s okay. I’m your hyung. I’ve seen it all.”

“That’s okay, I’m your hyung so I know your habits,” Jimin cuts in.

Taehyung turns to Jungkook, smirk tugging at his lips, clearly enjoying this. “Good to know.”

Jungkook, suddenly very aware of the bag still in his hand and Taehyung’s eyes on him, has absolutely no idea what to say.

“Alright, then… Can I come in?”

“Oh, right, sorry.” Jungkook steps back, door swinging wider.

Taehyung walks in, taking a few steps ahead admiring the apartment with curiosity, completely unaware of the silent exchange behind him.

As Taehyung moves past him into the apartment, taking in the space with obvious interest, Jungkook shoots a wide-eyed, stop teasing me kind of look at Jimin. His friend only raises his brows, utterly unfazed, and mouths, good luck, with a smug little smile that makes Jungkook want to sink into the floor.

The filming room feels smaller with Taehyung in it, though that might be Jungkook's imagination. Warm lighting already adjusted, camera mounted on its tripod facing the low wooden table where they'll work. The back wall displays his carefully curated aesthetic. Minimalist shelves lined with ceramic vases, framed prints, and a neat row of scented candles. The tall plant in the corner adds life to the neutral palette.

Taehyung steps in first, eyes roaming the space with an intrigued hum. “You really got a nice setup here.” Taehyung turns slowly, taking it all in. “Looks good on camera, but it's even cozier in person.”

Jungkook grins, toeing off his slippers near the door. “Thanks. I've been thinking about switching it up soon, though, to not make it boring for my viewers.”

“It smells good too, here.” Taehyung moves closer to the candle display, breathing in appreciatively. “Which one did you light?”

“Oh, it was the citrus, orchid, and hibiscus one.”

“I love it. It suits you. Very... comforting.”

“I’m glad you like it too.”

ungkook settles onto the beanbag on the right, patting the one beside him. Taehyung drops down without hesitation, close enough that their knees almost brush.

Jungkook places the foil-wrapped gimbap on the table, carefully peeling it open. He takes a piece, savoring the familiar comfort of tuna and mayo, before sliding the container toward Taehyung. “Want some?”

Taehyung doesn’t hesitate, picking one up with his fingers and popping it into his mouth. Conversation flows easily between bites. Updates on their respective projects, the scruffy dog Taehyung encountered that morning who attempted a grand theft sandwich from an unsuspecting jogger. Jungkook finds himself laughing more freely than he has all week, the nervous energy from earlier dissolving like sugar in water.

“If you want to touch up or check your face, mirror's right here.” Jungkook retrieves the small handheld mirror from beside his setup, placing it within Taehyung's reach after they’re done eating.

Taehyung leans in to take a look, his fingers comb through styled strands, adjusting the sweep across his forehead before tugging at his sweater's neckline. The movement draws attention to the elegant line of his throat, the way shadows play along his collarbones.

Jungkook knows he should look away and that it’s rude to stare. But his body refuses to cooperate, gaze tracing the concentrated furrow between Taehyung's brows and the unconscious pout of his lips as he focuses.

Before he even realizes how long he’s been staring, Taehyung turns to him, lips tugging into a sly smile. “Were you checking me out?”

“I mean, you look… yeah, you look good, but I was just—” Jungkook flounders.

“Only good?” Taehyung teases.

“Okay, fine. You look great, hyung.”

“Thank you.” Taehyung offers an exaggerated bow from his seated position, and the motion sends several strands falling across his temple.

“Wait, you’ve got…” Jungkook's fingers twitch. “Can I?”

Taehyung nods, and Jungkook reaches out slowly, brushing the wayward pieces back into place. His fingertips graze warm skin, and he finds himself smoothing down the side of Taehyung's hair with more care than necessary. For a brief moment, Jungkook feels Taehyung lean into the touch.

It takes a second before Jungkook pulls his hand back. Taehyung says nothing, but his smile remains. His eyes stay locked on Jungkook’s, and there’s something in that gaze that makes it feel like the air is suddenly too thick to breathe. Like Taehyung can see straight through him, past every smile and casual deflection, and right into the adoration Jungkook tries so hard to keep hidden beneath the surface.

“Alright.” Jungkook's voice cracks slightly before he clears his throat. “Camera’s set. The lighting's good. Let me just get the clip mic real quick.”

He gets up, hoping his heart will calm down by the time he gets back sitting down. He double-checks the battery, SD card, all the materials needed for the DIY again, before grabbing the clip-on mics.

Jungkook hands Taehyung his mic and clips on his own, though his fingers fumble slightly around the latch. The piece almost slips from his grip, and for a second, he braces for someone to reach in and take over like what happened once during a collab with another alpha YouTuber who swooped in without asking, all under the guise of being helpful. Like Jungkook couldn’t possibly figure out a mic clip by himself.

But Taehyung doesn’t do that. He simply watches, patient and unhurried, waiting for Jungkook to explicitly ask him for help.

“You got it?”

Jungkook glances up, catching no trace of condescension on Taehyung’s face “Yeah,” he says, managing the clip on the second try.

“Cool.” Taehyung returns to adjusting his own mic, 

And Jungkook… Jungkook feels grateful. Maybe the bar is in hell and that’s just the bare minimum to not make someone feel lesser or incapable, but still, it’s nice. Nice that Taehyung doesn’t use the opportunity to show off he’s a ‘dominant’ alpha who’s able to immediately take over.

“We’ll do a quick intro, then I’ll ask a few questions I sent you, and then we’ll start.” Jungkook crouches beside the camera, double-checking the frame composition..

“Got it, Jungkook-ah,” Taehyung replies, sitting up straighter and rolling his shoulders once like he’s easing into it.

“Wait, the mirror.” Jungkook stands, quickly grabs the small table mirror, and sets it aside, making sure it’s out of frame. He returns to the camera, and starts recording.

“Alright,” he says, glancing at Taehyung with a small smile. “Let’s do this.”

🎞

“Hello, everyone! I'm back with another DIY video!” Jungkook's enthusiasm radiates through the lens as he throws up twin peace signs, the studio lights catching the silver rings adorning his fingers. “I know you guys have been asking for another one since it's been a while, sorry about that. But not only am I bringing you a new DIY project today, I'm also bringing a very special guest that... well, you've probably already spotted him trying to hide in the corner there.”

He gestures dramatically to his left, and Taehyung laughs, dipping his head.

“It’s Taehyung! He’ll be helping me today to make a weighted lap pad.”

“Wow, it honestly feels surreal to be here,” Taehyung says, flashing a shy smile at the camera. “Hello, I'm Kim Taehyung. Some of you might've caught a glimpse of me in Jungkookie's vlog. You know, the one where he got absolutely drenched in that downpour.”

“Ah, what a day that was.”

“It was definitely unforgettable.”

“Anyway, how are you feeling about being here today?”

“Excited, actually.” Taehyung's thumb traces the edge of his ring, a nervous habit that Jungkook noticed a long time ago. “I'm a little nervous too. I've been following your channel for ages. My sisters and I used to binge watch your content together.”

“Really? That's... wow, thank you. That means everything to me.”

“They’ll be happy once this video comes out, I swear,” Taehyung says. “So, what are we making again?”

Jungkook reaches for the folded fabric beside him, the material soft beneath his fingertips. "We're making a weighted lap pad today. Do you know what that is?"

“My sister has one, I think. But that’s… pretty much all I know about it.”

“Perfect! So a weighted lap pad is basically a smaller, more portable version of a weighted blanket.” Jungkook picks up two clear containers, angling them toward the camera so the contents are visible. “It's filled with materials like these plastic poly pellets or glass beads to add weight which we'll be using for our two different versions today.”

“Oh, this is cool,” Taehyung says, reaching out to scoop a few of the beads into his palm. They roll smoothly between his long fingers. “Whoa, these are way heavier than I expected.”

“I know,” Jungkook says. “People use it to improve focus or… manage stress and anxiety. It’s especially helpful when you’re feeling overwhelmed.”

Taehyung hums, intrigued. “So it’s like a comfort tool?”

“Exactly. And I always say it’s great to have one around the house, especially for omegas,” Jungkook says, smoothing out the fabric in front of him. “Whether it’s part of your nest or just something to use while watching TV or decompressing after a long day. It’s also super helpful during pre-heat when your body starts feeling restless or overly sensitive. The weight can be really grounding, especially when your senses are kind of all over the place.”

“Oh, that’s useful!”

“Yup! I think it's crucial for omegas to have access to tools that support their comfort and self-regulation,” he adds. “This is definitely one of them.”

“And you can make it yourself too! Once you know how to make one, you can even gift it to people you care about. Friends, family, partner... or honestly, if you’re an alpha or beta watching this, don’t skip out. This can be great for anyone."

“Right, hyung? Emotional regulation is for everyone.”

“Now I’m excited,” Taehyung says, rubbing his hands together. “Let’s get into it, Jungkook-ah.”

Jungkook starts setting all the materials on the table, arranging everything, before reaching for the second camera to film a close-up. “We’re making two versions today,” he explains. “One that involves sewing, and another that’s beginner-friendly using velcro. Both will have a grid layout so we can fill in the weight evenly.”

Taehyung leans over to inspect the materials. "So the velcro version doesn't require any sewing?"

“Nope, just the velcro adhesive strips.”

“Can I help make that one then?”

“Come on, hyung, I knew you’d pick the easier one.”

“Listen, I'm being realistic about my skill level here. I don't want to be responsible for ruining the final product, Jungkook-ah.”

“Fine,” Jungkook sighs with exaggerated drama. “Since you're my esteemed guest and all.”

“Aww, look at that, Jungkook's being so sweet to me today!”

“Hyung, you're making it sound like I'm usually mean to you,” Jungkook protests, though his smile betrays his amusement.

“I’m kidding, of course.” Taehyung laughs, nudging his shoulder lightly against Jungkook’s.

“Anyway.” Jungkook ignores him, straightening his back with a sniff of fake composure. “So if you want something that’s quieter when it moves, go for the poly pellets. They make almost no sound. But if you like a bit of texture or don’t mind a soft rattle, the glass beads are heavier and feel really nice. Just keep in mind, the beads can be a little noisy if you toss the pad around.”

 “I like the beads, to be honest.” Taehyung says after shaking the glass beads container near his ear.

“Yeah? Then use them for yours. I’ll take the pellets.”

They both starts working on their respective versions, working side by side at the table. Each takes turns walking through the steps while Jungkook uses the second camera to capture close-up shots of the process. Taehyung catches on faster than Jungkook expected, and barely needs any help.

The camera seems to fade into the background. This oddly feels intimate and  domestic, Jungkook thinks to himself. Two of them creating something together, their knees occasionally brushing under the table.

“Can you help me thread the needle, hyung?” Jungkook asks, offering the needle and thread.

“Sure thing." Taehyung picks up the needle with an impressive lack of hesitation, though the confidence only lasts a second. “Ah—shit.”

Jungkook whips around. “What happened?”

“Pricked myself.” Taehyung lifts his index finger, revealing a tiny, bright dot of red.

Jungkook reaches for his hand on instinct. “Let me see.”

“It’s fine,” Taehyung says, but he doesn’t pull away either.

Jungkook gently holds his wrist, inspecting the fingertip before lifting it to his lips and blowing on it. “I still have to take care of my guest.”

Jungkook feels the flutter of Taehyung’s pulse against his skin and catches the way his eyes flicker downward to his lips. He barely has time to process either before Taehyung casually licks the blood off his fingertip.

Jungkook’s mind short-circuits. That’s so unfairly hot.   His mouth parts slightly before he snaps it shut, forcing himself to swivel back toward the camera like it just called him out loud.

“Ahem. Okay! Since hyung can’t do it,” he teases, “I’ll try again.”

Taehyung hums, clearly enjoying the chaos he’s just caused, and Jungkook tries very hard not to let it show just how flustered he suddenly feels.

Jungkook eventually gets the thread through the needle on his second try, refusing to glance at Taehyung even when he can feel the alpha still watching him. They trade occasional comments to the camera, switching between wide shots and close-ups. By the time they finish, it's late afternoon. Jungkook sets down his scissors, leans back with a quiet exhale, then reaches for his handheld camera.

“Okay, let’s show them what you made,” Jungkook adjusts the second camera for the top-down B-roll while Taehyung gently smooths out the fabric of his lap pad on the table. “This turned out… actually really nice.”

He runs his hand across the surface, then picks it up to feel the weight. “It feels so even. You did a great job, hyung.”

“Thank you! It wasn’t complicated to make, so…” Taehyung smiles proudly at the camera as he shows off the lap pad.

“Okay, hyung, hold it like that for a sec. Yeah, that’s perfect,” Jungkook says, leaning in to get a shot of the texture. “Look at that distribution. It actually looks super neat.”

“What can I say? I'm full of hidden talents.” Taehyung playfully winks at the camera. “What do you guys think? Pretty good for a first try, right?”

“And this beauty is mine!” Jungkook displays his own creation, flipping it to show both sides. “The poly pellets are much quieter—listen.” He demonstrates with a gentle shake that barely produces a sound. “That's one of the main differences between our two versions."

He hefts both pads, one in each hand. “Since they're both around two kilograms, as we showed you earlier with the scale, they feel essentially the same weight-wise.”

Setting them down again, Jungkook examines his stitching with a critical eye. “The seams aren't perfect, but I created these small compartments so the fill doesn't move around. I think it came out pretty decent.”

“Decent?” Taehyung's eyebrows shoot up. “It turns out really great, Jungkook. Come one, say it proudly.”

“You're right. I think I did really well.” He glances at Taehyung, who nods approvingly. “Hyung, can you grab the second camera? Help me get some B-rolls?”

“On it.” Taehyung picks up the second camera and starts zooming in as per Jungkook’s request.

“Look how even the fill is,” he says, more to the audience now. “No clumping and it feels super nice.”

Behind the lens, Taehyung hums appreciatively. “ I’m very impressed.”

“You did really well too, hyung,” Jungkook says before turning to the main camera. “So tell us in the comments which version you think came out better.”

Taehyung holds both pads side by side for comparison. “Mine or Jungkookie's? Personally, I think Jungkook's looks so much better."

“Thanks again… but I swear, this hyung is just trying to make me blush on camera.” Jungkook laughs. “Anyway, let us know in the comments which version of the weighted lap pad you’d try to make, and don’t forget to tag us if you make one!”

“Oh yeah, I’d love to see,” Taehyung says, gaze flicking to the camera, then back to Jungkook. “Maybe someone out there will come up with an even better design. More creative with the shape like curved edges, or maybe a built-in pocket to add scent packs to it for your partner, too.”

“Wow, that’s a good idea, actually. Like a dual-purpose nest item.”

“Exactly,” Taehyung says with a smug little smile. "One last thing, comment on what we should do next!"

“Look at you, already asking to be invited back.”

“You’ll miss me if I don’t come back,” Taehyung replies.

Jungkook shakes his head with a small smile before glancing back at the camera. “Anyway, thanks for sticking around. Go to the description where you’ll find the link to the post on my blog for the written step-by-steps, with photos of this DIY. And don’t forget to check out Taehyung hyung’s channel, ‘VTae’! There’s a lot of fun and great stuff there too.”

“And perhaps... a video featuring Jungkook is also coming up.”

“Ooh, spoiler alert,” Jungkook laughs. “Anyway, thanks again for helping out today, hyung. I had a great time. I hope you did too. See you all in the next video.”

“Bye!” they say together, waving to the camera.

“Great!” Jungkook says a second later. He gets up, groaning as he does so because he hasn’t stretched his legs after sitting down for a while before walking towards the camera.

He stops the recording and the soft blink of the red light on the camera fades. He sighs and reaches forward to turn off the LED lighting. He can hear the taps of Taehyung’s fingertips against the table.

Jungkook rolls his shoulders, the tension of staying upright and ‘on’ finally loosening its grip. His hand drags absently down his thigh as he stands, joints popping faintly as he crosses the room to where Taehyung is still seated on the cushion, legs stretched out under the table.

“Seriously, hyung,” Jungkook says. “Thanks again for doing this. It was a great collab.” He folds down beside Taehyung with less grace than before, back hitting the floor cushion with a soft thump.

“I had so much fun,” Taehyung says with a smile. He absently rolls the ring on his finger before speaking again. “Can I be honest for a second?”

Jungkook looks up from where his thumb is now tracing a faint line on his forearm. “Yeah. Always.”

“I’m kinda nervous about how your audience is going to react to me showing up on your channel,” Taehyung confesses. “I remember your last collab with that alpha guy, um... Juwon? I noticed it didn’t go over too well.”

Jungkook winces, shoulders twitching up. “Yeah,” he says, scratching lightly at the side of his neck where his scent gland rests. “I mean… he was fine before we started filming. Friendly. Actually, overly friendly, which... yeah, should’ve been the first red flag.”

“Ah, I see,” Taehyung says with a knowing tone.

Jungkook nods, nails click softly against his ring as he taps it against his knee, the nervous rhythm betraying the calm in his voice. “Then we sat down to film, and it was like... he flipped. Constant interruptions, 'corrections' to everything I said, showing off his dominance at every opportunity.”

“Yikes. Alpha posturing, huh?”

“Yeah… and I felt stupid for uploading it anyway.” Jungkook grits through his teeth. “So I try to be more careful now with who I collab with. And believe me when I say this, hyung. You’re gonna be just fine. Actually, you’ll probably be better than fine.”

“You really think so?”

“I know so. While we can’t please everyone, I’m positive my viewers will like you. I mean, they were literally begging for this collab to happen.”

“That makes me feel better. Thanks, Jungkook-ah.” He reaches over to lightly nudge Jungkook’s shin with the side of his foot.

Jungkook’s gaze goes distant for a second, like he's replaying scenes behind his eyes. His throat works around words that won't quite form. He presses his tongue to the inside of his cheek, clearly wrestling with some internal decision.

“"I need to apologize for something,” he finally admits.

Taehyung frowns lightly. “What for?”

“It’s really stupid,” Jungkook rushes out, fingers creeping up to scratch his cheek. “But please hear me out, hyung.”

“Of course I’ll listen.”

“When you first went viral, I thought you were an omega.” The confession tumbles out in a rush. “Based purely on your content like nesting tutorials, scented product reviews, topics that omega creators typically cover. There was nothing in your bio indicating otherwise, so I just... assumed.”

"Right..." Taehyung's voice remains carefully neutral, his scent unchanged.

“I was excited initially,” Jungkook continues, fingers stilling in his lap. “Because I genuinely liked your content and wanted another omega creator friend. Then I found out you were an alpha, and I didn't know how to process that feeling. Not because I hate you or hate alphas—I don't. It wasn't even hatred, really.”

Taehyung stays quiet, giving him time to work through the explanation.

“And then I saw the reason your video went viral initially. It was because a bunch of assholes thought it was funny to mock you. They dragged you for being a ‘soft’ alpha. A submissive one.”

The faint scent of something burnt edges into Taehyung's smell, but he gestures for Jungkook to continue.

“Right after that, everyone turned around and called you brave and refreshing for doing what omega creators have been doing for years. And yeah, I was frustrated. At first, I thought maybe it was just jealousy or bitterness, but it wasn’t that. I think part of me felt protective… of the community. We’ve been putting this kind of content out for so long, especially things that normalize omega instincts and well-being, even when it pushes against what society expects from us. And for the most part, it’s been ignored. Especially by the people we’re trying to educate. Those who need to understand omegas better.”

He pauses, thumb grazing along the fabric of the beanbag beneath him.

“Then you show up, and suddenly the comments are full of things like, ‘This is the kind of content we needed,’ or ‘This is the conversation we should’ve had years ago.’ And I know those are meant to be compliments. But hearing them... it made me upset. Because it’s not new. Omegas—creators, educators, professionals—we’ve been trying for years. Saying the same things. Showing the same care.”

Jungkook takes a shaky breath, aware he's getting worked up again.

“I know it’s not your fault that people are reacting the way they are. But I was cautious. I was wary. I kept wondering why you were doing it. Was it sincere? Or were you just… riding the wave of support and attention, only to stir things up and step out later? Because that’s happened before. A lot. And I didn’t want to assume the worst. But I also didn’t want to be one of those omegas who just overlooks it, who stays quiet and lets the community get used again.”

“Yeah, I understand that,” Taehyung finally responds.

“But the more I thought about it, the more I realized I was drawing conclusions based on curated content and internet speculation. Things you'd edited, gaps I'd filled with my own anxieties. I wanted to believe you were genuine, but fear kept convincing me otherwise.”

Jungkook finally looks up, eyes meeting Taehyung’s with a flicker of hesitation. The weight of everything he hasn’t said is coiled tight in his chest, but he pushes through it.

“I kept watching your videos. At first to confirm my suspicions, and then… maybe out of habit. And somewhere in between feeling annoyed and being hyper-aware of your every post, it changed into something else.” He gestures vaguely. “Attraction?”

Taehyung’s eyebrows shoot up, eyes wide, when he tries to say something, all that escapes is a soft, breathless sound.

“And then I met you, and realized none of my theories held up. You were genuinely kind when we first talked. I was just being a suspicious idiot who thought he could read people through pixels on a screen. And to make everything worse, I figured out that half my so-called 'annoyance' was really just me being into you.”

Taehyung still doesn’t say anything when Jungkook finishes all of his confession. His brain is clearly buffering, trying to piece together the entire monologue that just left Jungkook’s mouth.

“Well,” he finally manages to respond, “there’s absolutely nothing to forgive.”

“But hyung—”

“You didn’t come after me publicly. You never tried to turn people against me. Taehyung says calmly. “You kept your concerns private, reflected on them, gave me a genuine chance when we met, and came to your own conclusion based on actual interaction. Since then, you've treated me with nothing but respect and kindness, even when you didn't have to. If the apology matters to you, I accept it. But you don't owe me one.”

Relief floods through Jungkook like a dam breaking. “Thank you, hyung. That... really means a lot. I’m just glad we’re good. That we’re… friends now.”

“Just friends ?” Taehyung chuckles. “You're seriously going to brush past the part where you admitted being into me? Don't think I missed that little detail.”

“I mean... yeah, but that wasn’t the point—”

“Oh, I think it absolutely was the point,” Taehyung grins, inching closer until their knees bump together. “You dropped that bomb and thought I would let it slide?”

“I wasn’t trying to hide it. I just… wasn’t planning to say it out loud .”

“But you did say it,” Taehyung presses, still teasing. “And then you just kept talking like I wasn’t going to notice.”

“I panicked, hyung,” Jungkook whines, “I figured if I said it fast enough, maybe you’d forget.”

“Forget?” Taehyung’s laugh is bright and delighted. “You think I forgot the part where you admitted watching my content annoyed you because you like me?”

Jungkook's lips push into a pout. “You really don’t have to repeat it, you know.”

This time Taehyung doesn't tease. His expression softens as he repositions himself so they're facing each other directly. There seems to be something in his mind.

“Do you want to stay friends?”

“Of course, hyung.”

Taehyung leans in slightly, just enough that Jungkook can feel the warmth of his breath at the corner of his mouth. IThe alpha's scent envelops him. Earthy and sweet, almost overwhelming in its intensity up close.

“Just friends? But you said you were into me.” His lips don’t quite touch Jungkook’s, but they hover, close enough that Jungkook feels every exhaled word against his skin. “Don’t you want to know if I’m into you too?”

Jungkook can hear himself gulping. His mouth has gone desert-dry, palms damp with nervous sweat, while Taehyung watches him with half-lidded eyes, tongue darting quickly across his bottom lip.

“Yes, hyung.”

“Can I kiss you?”

“Please.”

Taehyung closes the remaining distance between them. His lips brush against Jungkook's first in the lightest contact, a question waiting for an answer. Jungkook leans into it, pressing forward until their mouths meet fully.

The kiss starts tentative, but it doesn’t stay that way. When Taehyung deepens it, Jungkook’s lips part slightly in response. He tilts his head to the side, and their noses brush briefly.

Taehyung’s fingers brush along Jungkook’s jaw, tracing a path like he's memorizing the shape. Their knees bump briefly before they shift slightly to find balance again. The beanbag rustles under them, soft and uneven.

When Taehyung's tongue flicks lightly at his bottom lip, Jungkook exhales shakily. Heat and the mingled intensity of their scents makes him dizzy and lightheaded. His hands fist in Taehyung's sweater, forgetting about the low neckline until his  fingers slip underneath by accident, fingertips dragging against bare skin. The unexpected contact draws a low grunt from Taehyung's throat.

Taehyung's other hand slides around to the back of Jungkook's neck, fingers threading through the soft hair at his nape and tugging just enough to make Jungkook gasp into the kiss.

When they break apart, both of them are breathing hard. Taehyung’s forehead rests lightly against Jungkook’s, his eyes staying downcast. The bold, seductive Taehyung from moments before has evaporated completely.

Jungkook nearly laughs at how endearing the transformation is. But he chooses to stay still, taking in the details of Taehyung’s features. The gentle curve of his lashes, the soft slope of his nose, the subtle arch of his brows. His lips are parted, kiss-bruised and faintly glistening. Jungkook swears he can still taste the mint candy Taehyung eats in the middle of filming on his tongue.

“You don’t want to say anything?”

"Okay, listen, I'm just processing what just happened."

"Don't suddenly go all bashful on me, hyung."

“I’m not,” Taehyung protests, but his eyes still won’t meet Jungkook’s.

“Hyung,” Jungkook cups Taehyung’s face gently, coaxing his gaze upward until their eyes lock.

Taehyung flashes a shy grin. “Hi. Was that okay?”

“I loved it,” Jungkook answers without hesitation.

“Good. I guess you know my answer now.”

“I do."

“So…” Taehyung's thumb traces nervous circles on Jungkook's wrist. “Can I take you on a proper date? Maybe… even court you, if that’s something you’d want. I know it sounds a little old-fashioned, but—”

“I’d love to, hyung,” Jungkook interrupts. “Thank you.”

“Then I’ll do my absolute best.”

“I can’t wait,” Jungkook responds with a peck.

“Should we clean up or stay here a little longer?”

“Let’s stay here for a bit more. Then maybe head out to get something to eat? I’m hungry after all that work.”

“Sounds like a date to me.”

“Guess it is.”

Later, when they finally come out of the room, they cross the living room toward the front door. Jimin sits curled on the couch with his laptop, fingers tapping fast across the keys. He glances up just in time to catch sight of their intertwined hands and lets out a low whistle.

“About damn time,” he grins, throwing Jungkook an enthusiastic thumbs-up.

Jungkook rolls his eyes, tugging Taehyung's hand to hurry them past before Jimin can launch into full teasing mode. But he doesn't let go. If anything, his grip tightens slightly. Taehyung's grin stretches wider, and they both break into laughter as the door swings shut behind them, sealing them into the golden evening light.