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Chapter Text

It had been 3 weeks since Jimin had felt his world shatter. 3 weeks since Jimin felt like he was drowning in thick black sludge, unable to climb up and breathe.

It has been 6 months and 3 weeks since Jungkook confessed to him. That night when Jimin had felt like he had everything he wanted in life, when he had felt the happiest he had ever been.

He should have known.

He should have known it would come crashing down to bury him alive.

No one tells you how difficult it is to continue breathing and going through the daily motions of your life when your world turns upside down.

Jimin was never a stranger to emotional pain. He had been in love with his best friend for all his life. He was convinced his love was unrequited. He had seen said best friends with multiple partners and had weathered it all. He knew pain, he had been in pain for the longest time but this was different. It was not just pain, it was bone aching anguish at having a taste of something that you have craved all your life, only for it to be taken away from you cruelly.

Jimin walked into the college campus bracing himself.

It was the same everyday. People looked at him with pity, they whispered behind his back and were extra kind to him like he was fragile. Breakable.

Maybe he was. Maybe his misery was written on his face for everyone to see.

He kept his head high, walking the familiar path towards his lab. It was still early for students to be on the campus, yet, the few that were there felt like one too many, especially since the sympathetic looks and whispers began.

It took everything in Jimin not to run to the lab, instead he forced himself to take measured, brisk steps as he made his way.

Once he was safely in his lab, he closed the door and collapsed against it, his eyes burning.

Jimin hated this. Hated that he couldn’t control his emotions or his tears.

Hot tears slipped from Jimin’s eyes. He clawed at his throat, at his chest willing for the ache to disappear. 

Jimin raked his nails through his scalp as he pushed his hair back. He wanted to run away. He wanted to go far from here where no one knew him. He wanted a clean break and a new beginning. He did not want the pity. He did not want to be stuck in the same cycle when his entire life had collapsed upon itself.

Jimin also knew he had no option. He had to endure this, he had to get through this. He couldn’t just pick up and leave when he had put so much of himself into years of studies and research. Not only that, but he couldn’t be selfish and discount the sacrifices that his parents had made to get him here to this university and into the PhD program.

He allowed himself to be miserable for a few moments and then picked himself off the floor.

Wiping his tears, Jimin powered on his laptop and pulled his research notes. His professor had sent him a ton of comments on language, citations and derivations. He had to go through them one by one and revise everything. Not to mention he had to track down citations for another research paper he was co-writing with his professor.

It was grunt work but it was something that would keep him busy and right now, it was godsent.

Jimin allowed himself to get lost in his work. His heart rate steadied and soon he was immersed into his work.

Jimin had no idea how long he spent working on his paper. He had white boards surrounding him with equations and post-its stuck on the edges with rough and quick notes made for reference. To any outsider it would look like a small explosive device went off here, but to Jimin, he was in his zone.

A knock on his door startled him out of his deep concentration.

“Yeah?” Jimin called out.

The door opened a little and Taehyung peeked inside, “Did you have lunch?.”

Jimin blinked. Was it afternoon already? 

His silence must have been an answer enough because Taehyung entered and closed the door behind himself, crossing his arms and looking at Jimin with disappointment.

“You snuck out before I could wake up, without breakfast, might I add, and now you have not even had lunch yet.” Taehyung’s voice was clipped, his displeasure shining through it.

Jimin looked at the wall clock feeling a little startled. It was 2 in the afternoon.

“I didn’t realise.” Jimin murmured.

“Come on. Let’s go.” Taehyung said in a hurry.

“I am not hungry Tae.” Jimin said. It was true. He was not hungry. Not one bit. Add to it that people would be around and he was in no mood to subject himself to their pity.

Jimin did not even want to think of what would happen if he caught a glimpse of… No. No. Do not think about him.

“Jimin, seriously. You have to eat.” Taehyung said, his frustration evident.

“I am not hungry Tae.” Jimin repeated.

Taehyung sighed, “Okay, if you do not want to go to the cafe I can get something for you here.”

“No food in my lab.” Jimin said, turning back to his papers.

“Jimin.” Taehyung said, his tone bordering on anger.

“Tae please. Don’t. I will eat when I am hungry.” Jimin replied, willing Taehyung to go. He did not want to lash out on his best friend and his temper was held together by a thin thread right now.

“I am not having any of it. Starving yourself is not the solution Jimin.” Taehyung bit out.

“Taehyung.” Jimin said, a warning heavy in his tone.

“Just have a sandwich. Please. For my sake.” Taehyung pleaded.

“I am not hungry right now but we can have dinner together.” Jimin proposed, feeling a little bad at Taehyung being so caring for Jimin, despite Jimin’s protests.

Taehyung stared at Jimin for a moment before he sighed and rummaged through his bag getting a bottle of Electrolyte water and a protein bar.

"At least have this between now and then.” Taehyung said sadly.

Jimin nodded. A lump formed in his throat. What had he done to deserve such a good friend?

Once Taehyung had left, Jimin forced himself to eat the protein bar and gulp down the electrolyte water. 

That evening as he was leaving campus, he felt equal amounts of dread and anticipation at having to see HIM. Jungkook. Jimin did not want to see the man who was behind all his misery but at the same time he couldn’t stop himself from hoping to catch a glimpse of him.

Jimin had not seen Jungkook for 3 weeks now. Not since the day it all went down.

Jimin shook his head, not wanting to relive the entire memory. He dragged himself home, coaching himself on how he was going to apologise to Taehyung and have a nice dinner with his best friend to appease him.

When Jimin keyed in the lock and entered, it was to find all his friends there.

Sitting around the living room, lively chatter going on which came to an abrupt halt as they saw Jimin.

“Hey Jimin.” Jin Hyung said, a kind smile on his face as he waved.

Namjoon and Hoseok waved along with him. Yoongi sat, besides Hoseok, his arms crossed looking like he was forced to be here. Taehyung who was sitting on the couch looking a little sheepish.

“Hey.” Jimin smiled, “What is this? An intervention?” He joked.

His smile fell when none of the others laughed and looked a little awkward.

“Oh for the love of God.” Jimin groaned.

“We are just worried.” Namjoon explained.

“Taehyung said you aren’t eating.” Hoseok said, leaning forward in his seat.

“I cooked. You always like it when I cook.” Jin Hyung said, standing.

“Well, I am hungry actually and it smells delicious.” Jimin said looking at his friends.

It was true, the aroma in the house made Jimin feel the first pangs of hunger. Taehyung visibly deflated in relief at Jimin’s words, even Hoseok relaxed back. It made Jimin feel a little guilty at having worried his friends so much.

“I am going to be fine you guys.” Jimin said, walking forward and plopping into the couch beside Taehyung who immediately wrapped his hands around Jimin.

 “See. He is fine.” Yoongi groused, “You did not let me sleep for this?” 

“You would have complained if we all got together without you, you big baby.” Hoseok said, rolling his eyes, his voice fond.

“It was one time.” Yoongi said, defensive.

“One time that you bring up at least once every week.” Hosoek said, grinning.

“He even told Eomma. She scolded me.” Taehyung sulked.

“You deserved it.” Yoongi said, his gummy smile on display.

“Point is, we love Jimin and we are here today for him.” Jin Hyung said, ever the Hyung of the group.

“You are my favourite.” Taehyung agreed, rocking Jimin. “I like you the most.”

“Oh God.” Yoongi groaned.

At once Taehyung Yoongi and Jimin piped up, “Yoongi, we love you.”

“Ahhhhhhhhh…..!!!!” Yoongi screeched, much like he had done all those months back.

Jimin laughed. He couldn’t help it. It was the first laugh he had since that fateful day. Jimin laughed till he had tears in his eyes as everyone teased Yoongi.

They ate and talked amongst themselves. Everyone avoided the elephant in the room. Jimin knew what it cost them. Especially since Jin Hyung and Yoongi had a special soft spot for Jimin’s now ex-boyfriend. Jungkook was their favourite afterall.

 No one spoke of him though.

Laughter and banter continued through the evening with warm food and warmer friendship. For the first time in 3 weeks, Jimin thought he was going to be alright. It may take time and it would chip away a piece of himself forever, but he was going to be just fine.

That night as Jimin lay in bed he couldn’t help but reminisce of the day when he had everything he ever wanted. He still remembered every excruciating detail of the day he had woken up in Jungkook’s arms for the first time after Jungkook had confessed to him.

🩷🩷🩷🩷

6 MONTHS AGO:

Jimin woke up well rested. His brain was already floating on happy hormones. His face already etched into a smile.

Jimin felt so many emotions at one, it was hard for him to keep track of them. He had turned his head in slow motion towards Jungkook.

He was met with a pair of eyes extremely close and already staring back at him. Reflexively Jimin yelped and jerked back.

“Good Morning.” Jungkook said. 

Jimin blinked. That was anticlimactic, “Good Morning.” he responded.

“I didn’t mean to scare you.” Jungkook had said.

Jimin nodded. He couldn’t look Jungkook in the eye.

“Jimin-ah.” Jungkook called.

“Yes?” Jimin responded. He sat up, fiddling with the covers, unsure of how things would progress.

“Jimin look at me.” Jungkook said. He was still laying down on bed.

Jimin looked sideways and Jungkook smiled gently.

“It’s okay if you are regretting it or if you want time?” Jungkook said. Jimin could clearly see the vulnerability in Jungkook’s eyes.

“What?” Jimin burst out, “No. Absolutely Not.”

Jimin did not know what spurred his next actions. He did not know if it was the tears he had seen in Jungkook’s eyes yesterday, if it was the vulnerability on his face right now or if it was simply fear of losing something that he had wanted for years.

Jimin rose on his knees and shuffled a little before straddling Jungkook.

It was comical how wide Jungkook’s eyes went.

“You are mine now.” Jimin declared, looking Jungkook right in the eye.

Jungkook’s eyes softened and a smile bloomed on his face, “Was always yours.” He said.

Jimin rolled his eyes, “Even when you were a communal dick?”

“A communal dick?” Jungkook’s jaw dropped. “What is that supposed to mean?”

Jimin nodded sagely, “You know a dick used by the entire community.”

“I did not sleep around that much.” Jungkook said defensively. His hands came up to rest on Jimin’s hips, sneaking beneath his shit to get to the bare skin of his waist.

Jimin caught both of Jungkook’s hands over his own shirt, “What happened to great restraint?”

Jungkook snorted, “You are straddling me first thing in the morning. What restraint? What is that word? Is that even a word?”

Jimin grinned and then swiftly got off Jungkook, exiting the bed.i

Jungkook whined, “Jimin No.” He sat up and made grabby hands at Jimin, demanding he get back to bed.

“Jimin, yes.” Jimin grinned. “I am glad this is not awkward.”

Jungkook huffed a laugh, “You are still you. Give it a few hours. Your overthinking ass will make it awkward.”

“Really smart guy? Should you be talking about my ass like that if you have any hopes of tapping it?”

Jungkook stared at Jimin for a moment and then groaned, throwing his head back, “I just saw my future.”

“What?” Jimin laughed.

“My future. I just saw my future. You are going to enjoy tormenting me, aren’t you? Shouldn’t have promised 5 dates.” Jungkook grumbled as he flopped on the bed dramatically.

Then, just because Jimin could, he happily skipped forward, grabbing Jungkook’s face and kissing him fiercely.

Jungkook looked dazed when Jimin pulled back. Jungkook tried to pull Jimin in but Jimin danced away.

“I could be limping this morning to class. Too bad you decided to be a gentleman.” Jimin teased, walking backwards.

Jungkook’s eyes darkened and he was moving faster than Jimin could process.

Jimin shrieked and ran out, Jungkook chasing him around the living room.

When Jimin had finally been caught, they ended up on the floor, heated hands and mouths moving over each other until Jimin’s alarm had gone off.

It was very difficult for Jimin to pull away.

Yeah! Jimin had decided he was not waiting for 5 dates. He was going to die of blue-balls with all these heavy make-out sessions. Not to mention, now that his brain had permission, it had unleashed its own version of porn in regards to Jungkook.

Jimin thought he would be lucky if he made it past one date without tearing through Jungkook’s clothes.

🩷🩷🩷🩷

PRESENT TIMELINE:

Jungkook had not left his apartment since Jimin had walked out. For a week and a half, Jungkook had locked himself in his apartment. The next week and a half had Mingyu and Yugyeom showing up everyday to give him the relevant notes or to drag him out of the house.

3 weeks since Jimin had walked out and Jungkook’s heart had been torn out of his chest. 

Their friends had all taken Jimin’s side. His Hyung’s were not speaking to him. Yugyeom spoke to him but Mingyu gave him the cold shoulder.

Jungkook deserved it, he knew he did. It was his fault afterall, he had ruined everything. He had lost the only man he had ever loved, his best friend, the love of his life.

He had lost him Jimin and all for what? A little bit of pride.

As far as Jungkook was concerned, he had lost everything in his life.

There was no light without Jimin, colours looked faded, food tasted bland. He couldn’t even stand to look at himself anymore. He was nothing without his Jimin. 

Nothing.

And now Jimin was gone. Forever. Jungkook had made sure of it. In his pride, in his self-proclaimed righteous anger, Jungkook had made sure that Jimin would never come back to him again.

He had ruined his own life with his own hands. His Jimin. Now gone.

He had received a notice yesterday from the university stating that he would be flunking the semester if he were to miss any more classes.

Jungkook did not want to go. He felt like he should rot here, in what remained of their happy relationship. If only he could go back and stop himself from saying those things.

Jungkook had picked up his phone many times to call Jimin. To beg for forgiveness, to ask Jimin to take him back. He had cried and screamed till his voice was horse and eyes swollen, but he could not bring himself to actually get in touch with Jimin.

The last words Jimin spoke with his back turned to Jungkook still echoed in Jungkook’s ears. It made him want to bleed, like blood would wipe those words from echoing into his ears, like it would make the pain of hearing them go away.

When Jimin had said - ‘Never again Jungkook, you will never have me again.’

Jungkook felt a dread bubble in his tummy at the thought of seeing Jimin again and not being able to take him into his arms, not being able to have that smile directed at him, not being able to kiss Jimin or to just simply call him his.

Would Jimin look at Jungkook with blank eyes? Like that of a stranger?

Would he not look at Jungkook at all?

Was he attending university? 

Jungkook had so many questions and he hated it because for the first time in his life he did not know anything about Jimin. It made him feel all sorts of wrong. He was made for Jimin, of that he was sure, if only he had the good sense to keep his pride aside, he would still have Jimin in his arms.

He could recall with perfect clarity the blissful 6 months where he got to call Jimin his. Those 6 months where Jimin had showered all his love on Jungkook.

How was he ever supposed to live without Jimin?

🩷🩷🩷🩷

6 MONTHS AGO:

That morning Jungkook felt giddy with excitement. He couldn’t wait to go out and show-off to the world that Jimin was his. His to hold and his to love.

As much as Jungkook did not want to go to uni that day, he forced himself to do so. Partly because Jimin was militant about his studies and partly because he wanted to shout from the roof-tops that he was in love with Jimin.

With a bounce to his step Jungkook climbed down the stairs and mounted his bike, Jimin dutifully sat behind him. Jimin had a beautiful smile on his face, a smile that Jungkook really wanted to kiss.

Driving to the university felt different today. Jimin’s hand on his shoulder felt different today. He wanted to reach back and pull Jimin’s arms around his waist but he feared he would pop a boner if he were to do so.

As it is, waking up to Jimin and the subsequent make-out session had not helped much in the restraint Jungkook had vowed to keep.

There was a little lingering awkwardness between them. As giddy as Jungkook was with happiness he was also a little concerned.

This new development in their relationship was as terrifying as it was welcomed. 

How would they navigate this? How were they going to go from decades of friendship to being lovers?

He knew everything there was to know about Jimin. They had spent each day of their lives with each other. Were they still supposed to talk? And if so then about what?

That morning he had teased Jimin that Jimin would overthink everything but it seemed like Jungkook was doing the same.

All his concerns melted away when he parked his bike and then saw Jimin beaming up a smile at him as he climbed down the bike

They would be fine, Jungkook thought to himself. As long as he had Jimin by his side, smiling that smile at him, they would be fine.

Still on a high, Jungkook took hold of Jimin’s hand and intertwined their fingers.

“Gukk? What?” Jimin asked, flustered.

“I am holding your hand.” Jungkook said simply. He remembered the conversation all those months ago he had with Mingyu when he had mentioned that Jimin and him were not a couple simply because they never held hands or kissed.

On impulse, Jungkook raised their joint hands and pressed a quick kiss to the back of Jimin’s hand.

“Oh God.” Jimin said, blushing.

Jungkook was sure, he was walking with his chest buffed up but he couldn’t help it. He was just that ecstatic.

By the time they had reached the middle of the campus they had gained a lot of attention. Not that Jungkook minded. He threw a smug smile at everyone and glared at the names he could recall who had sent Jimin flowers.

Jimin tugged at Jungkook’s hand and Jungkook frowned.

“What?” Jungkook asked.

“I have to go the other way to my lab.” Jimin said, lightly tugging at his hand again.

Jungkook simply turned and walked in the direction Jimin had indicated.

“What are you doing?” Jimin asked bewildered.

“Dropping you off.” Jungkook grinned.

“You already dropped me off at the university.” Jimin said, a blush high on his cheeks.

“I am dropping you to your lab.”

“That is excessive.” Jimin huffed out a laugh.

Before Jungkook could reply he heard a voice call out to him from behind. Both Jimin and Jungkook turned around to see the source of the voice jogging down towards them.

“Mingyu.” Jungkook greeted, bracing himself. He could physically see the teasing and smugness in Mingyu’s expression the moment he saw their intertwined hands.

“Look who is holding hands.” Mingyu was thrilled. “Jimin. Congratulations.” he happily said, wiggling his brows.

Jimin’s blush intensified, “Thank you?” Jimin replied, though it sounded more like a question as he glanced at Jungkook.

“You get a lifetime of this thick skulled man.” Mingyu said, teasing.

“Hey!” Jungkook said, affronted and Jimin giggled.

As endeared as Jungkook felt at Jimin’s giggle he also felt a twinge of annoyance at not being the one to make Jimin giggle.

“You don’t get to talk.” Mingyu wagged a finger in his face and then turned to Jimin, “You should have heard him Jimin. He was insufferable.” Mingyu complained.

“Oh?” Jimin asked.

Mingyu nodded enthusiastically. Then he put on a high pitched faux voice and dramatically put his head in his hands saying, “Oh Mingyu! Jimin left at dawn. Oh Mingyu! Jimin spent the night out. Oh Mingyu! Jimin is getting flowers from other people.” Then Mingyu put his hand to his heart and gave a sad kicked puppy expression, “Oh Mingyu! Jimin has been mine since I was one.”

Jimin giggled and Jungkook glared.

“You said that?” Jimin asked, turning to Jungkook.

“You have been mine since I was one.” Jungkook said, shrugging.

“Can you believe this guy?” Mingyu asked Jimin incredulously.

“If I was yours since you were one then you wouldn’t be sleeping around.” Jimin said, his voice teasing.

Jungkook’s smile faltered a little, though Jimin did not seem to notice. Mingyu did though and quickly changed the topic.

“Well, I am happy for you two. Gukk’s consistent whining is now officially your problem.” Mingyu winked at Jimin.

Jungkook walked with a happily skipping Jimin. A part of Jungkook wanted to ask Jimin why he had made the comment but he brushed it off.

What mattered was that they were together now. Right? Plus, he did not want to bring in a heavy topic conversation when he knew he was going to have to go for his lectures in a few minutes.

When they reached the lab, Jungkook halted.

“Here we are.” Jimin said, looking up at Jungkook.

“Here we are.” Jungkook echoed, closing the distance between them.

“You can go now.” Jimin said, though his hold on Jungkook’s hand did not loosen.

“Wanna stay with you.” Jungkook pouted.

“You have your lecture puppy.” Jimin said, brushing his nose against Jungkook’s.

Jungkook hummed.

“Not going to say that you are not a puppy?” Jimin asked, a soft smile gracing his features.

“BABY, I would happily be whatever you want me to be. I can be your puppy.” Jungkook said instead.

Jimin laughed. He looked around and Jungkook frowned. A few students were milling around. Jimin bit his lip and pushed at the door to the lab, tugging Jungkook inside.

Jungkook let the door close behind him, putting his hand through Jimin’s waist and pulling him in. He was so close to Jimin, their lips only a breath apart.

Jungkook jumped in fright when he heard the voice to his left.

“Jiminieeee?” A voice screeched.

Jimin jerked back, taking his warmth with him and turned towards the voice. Jungkook did too.

A man was sitting sprawled on the floor in a corner, a sketchbook open in his lap, his hands covered in charcoal.

“Taehyungieeee.” Jimin happily called back and threw himself at the man who caught Jimin just in time as they tumbled to the floor in a heap.

This was the mysterious Taehyung?

“Look what I made.” The man, Taehyung, shoved his sketchbook at Jimin.

One the page was a sketch of Jimin that honestly looked ethereal. Jimin looked like something that came right out of a magical fantasy novel.

“Not my best work but holy shit Jiminie. I found my muse.” Taehyung said, dragging a charcoal stained finger across Jimin’s cheeks, leaving a dark trail behind.

Jungkook’s jaw clenched.

Who the fuck was this Taehyung? Where did he get off calling Jimin his muse? And marking Jimin like that? In front of Jungkook?

Jungkook stalked forward and pushed his hands under Jimin’s arms, encircling him and pulling him up to his feet and against his own chest.

Jungkook scowled at Taehyung.

“Awwww…!!! Protective Puppy.” Taehyung cooed, causing Jimin to burst into laughter.

“Not. A. Puppy.” Jungkook gritted out. He was really disliking this Taehyung fellow.

“You just told him you can be a puppy.” Taehyung deadpanned. “The walls are not soundproof, you know.” Then he turned to Jimin, “You sure you want this one? Doesn't seem too bright.”

Jimin was still laughing but he chidded Taehyung “Tae, lay off him.”

“Your choice of friends is abysmal.” Jungkook told Jimin, pulling Jimin tighter against himself.

“You are saying this as his former best friend?” Taehyung raised an unimpressed eyebrow at Jungkook and then to Jimin he said in a dramatic whisper, “Really not bright.”

“What do you mean former best friend?” Jungkook gritted out. Who was this clown and why was he calling Jungkook a former best friend?

“Do you not want to be his boyfriend now? You can't hold two titles.” Taehyung deadpanned and then to Jimin he asked, “You sure this is your choice?”

“I can hold two titles.” Jungkook said pulling Jimin closer to himself and making them take a step away from Taehyung.

“Right. Sure you can.” Taehyung said, his voice saccharine.

Jungkook felt triumph for about two seconds before his eyes narrowed. Why was this man giving up so soon?

Taehyung’s eyes sparkled as he grinned, “I am Jimin’s soulmate after all.”

“No you are not.” Jungkook shot back, sounding extremely petulant to even his own ears.

Jimin was laughing harder now, his small hand covering his mouth as his body shook against Jungkook’s.

“Tae, don’t tease him.” Jimin admonished, his voice light.

“What did I do?” Taehyung looked at Jimin innocently.

“Tae.” Jimin said, a playful warning in his voice.

Jungkook frowned. Wait a minute. What was this man doing in Jimin’s lab? For that matter, why was he sketching in Jimin’s lab? Jimin hated people in his lab.

“Why are you here?” Jungkook asked, his voice direct.

“Jungkook.” Jimin scolded, turning round on him.

“I like it here.” Taehyung shrugged.

“Jimin hates people in his lab.” Jungkook said.

“He loves my company when he is working.”

Jungkook stared at Jimin who looked decidedly guilty as he avoided Jungkook’s eyes.

“You never let me stay.” Jungkook said, betrayed. “You let him stay and you kick me out?”

“What can I say, soulmate privileges.” Taehyung wiggled his eyebrows, resting his chin on his folded hands now.

Jungkook’s jaw dropped.

“Jiminnnn.” He appealed, “Hyung this is not fair.”

“Don't ‘Hyung’ your way out of this.” Jimin admonished “The last time you were here you almost stuck your hand in liquid nitrogen. Not to mention you finished half the helium tank to blow up balloons and make your voice sound funny.”

“You laughed at that.” Jungkook defended.

“It was funny.” Jimin conceded.

“Ahhhh I see it now.” Taehyung mused, “Smart guy falling for the class clown. Classic love story.”

“Who are you calling a clown?” Jungkook shouted.

Taehyung blinked, “Was I not clear enough? You. I am calling you the class clown.” He then looked at Jimin, “Are you sure about this?” He asked in faux concern.

“Jiminnnnn” Jungkook whined.

“Taehyung.” Jimin said, this time his voice heavier in warning.

Taehyung grinned. “Alright Alright.” He conceded. “You are brilliant. I know you are on the top of your faculty.”

Jungkook nodded, proud, “That’s right.”

“Hey smart guy.” Taehyung said, “It is 9.15.”

“So?” Jungkook asked, confused as to why Taehyung was announcing the time.

Taehyung looked at Jimin again and Jimin glared lightly, shaking his head. 

Jungkook had a sudden realization on why Taehyung had announced the time, right as Taehyung spoke, “Your lecture started 15 minutes ago.”“Shit. Shit. Shit.” Jungkook fretted as he rushed out of the door only to double back and leave a quick peck on Jimin’s forehead.

Jungkook ran to his lecture hall and received an earful from his professor but it was alright because he could still see how Jimin’s cheeks had tinted pink when Jungkook had doubled back. He could still hear Jimin’s sharp intake of breath and a quite ‘See you’

Nothing could ruin his mood because he was going to see Jimin. His Jimin. Soon.

Well, except for the fact that Jimin was with Taehyung right now while he was here stuck in this lecture.

Jungkook sulked, maybe he should have just ditched today.

Everything was still the same and yet so different for Jungkook. So far in his life he had touched Jimin’s hand perhaps a thousand times and yet each touch felt so different now. He had hugged Jimin a thousand times and yet, pulling Jimin into his arms felt so different now.

Jimin was still his best friend who meant more than the world to him, yet now, Jimin meant so much more to him.

Jungkook couldn’t really explain the feelings in his head. It was like a new light had gone off in his head and now suddenly Jimin was the same person yet so much different in Jungkook's eyes.

Truth to be told he was struggling just a little bit in reconciling both the Jimins in his head. It all faded into one large feeling of love when Jimin looked at him though and perhaps that was enough for now, Jungkook thought to himself.

Jungkook felt a little restless at being away from Jimin since they had just gotten together last night. Feeling impulsive, Jungkook shot a text to Jimin while still sitting in his lecture.

Even texting Jimin felt different now. It was a gamble. Jimin usually did not reply when he was engrossed in his work and studies. Jungkook had never minded that much. He was used to his friend being caught up in his zone and ignoring everything that was not his work. However this time Jungkook did mind. He wanted Jimin to text back.

His phone buzzing had giddy excitement rushing through Jungkook. 

Jimin had texted back. 

For the next hour they kept exchanging messages. Jungkook being unnecessarily corny and flirty while Jimin alternated between gifs, memes and flirting back.

Jungkook was thrilled. For him, this was just an indication that Jimin felt as deeply as Jungkook did. It was comforting to know he was not alone in this.

Somewhere around the one hour mark, the texts had stopped. Jungkook bounced his foot impatiently as he waited for another 30 minutes for the lecture to end. 

Jungkook made a beeline to Jimin’s lab knowing he would be there. A part of him felt like he shouldn’t be doing this. He should be giving Jimin his space right? Especially when Jimin was working. However a larger part of him wanted Jimin’s attention on himself.

Jungkook told himself this was simply because it was all so new, that this feeling would simmer down with time.

Halfway to the building that held the lab, Jungkook saw Jimin sprawled on the grass with Taehyung and Hoseok. They were talking animatedly amongst themselves and laughing.

Oh come on! Jungkook whined in his head.

He made his way to the trio. Without a word he laid down with his head on Jimin’s lap. He remembered a few days back when Jimin was laying on Taehyung's lap, his hair being pet.

Jungkook scowled at the image and pulled Jimin’s hand to his hair. A surprised Jimin started petting his hair.

“Seriously?” Hoseok deadpanned.

“What?” Jungkook asked, closing his eyes in content.

“How are you so whipped already?” Hoseok asked.

Jungkook’s eyes shot open, “Have you seen Jimin?” Jungkook asked, smug.

Jimin playfully hit him on his shoulder. An embarrassed “Gukk” coming out of his mouth. Then he shook his head and snorted, “By that logic you were blind until yesterday.”

Jungkook’s smile dropped.

He opened his mouth but words wouldn’t come out.

He was saved from speaking when another stranger joined them.

“Oh hello there.” Hoseok called out to the man happily.

The man in question grunted and then all but threw a sandwich at Taehyung. “Eat.”

Jungkook raised a brow at Taehyung.

“My brother.” Taehyung nodded towards the man, “Yoongi.”

“The man I am going to marry.” Hoseok piped up, dreamily.

“Oh for fucks sake.” The man - Yoongi turned a light shade of pink, scowling at both Taehyung and Hoseok.

Jimin was sniggering.

“You two look nothing alike.” Jungkook noted.

“Parents picked him up from the dumpster.” Yoongi said with a serious face.

Taehyung nodded, “They were so disappointed in their own child, even a dumpster baby was an upgrade.”

Yoongi snorted, “He has been telling himself that all his life.”

“I am telling Eomma you called me a dumpster baby in front of half the campus.” Taehyung said, munching on the sandwich.

Yoongi shrugged. “Go ahead.”

“Why are you feeding him if he is a dumpster baby?” Jimin asked.

“Because he is still my brother.” Yoongi sighed like it was annoying him.

“Because he wuvvvssss me.” Taehyung cooed, causing Yoongi to stand up abruptly and walk away.

Hoseok sighed, “I am in love.”

Taehyung groaned.

“Go get him. Don't waste time like me.” Jungkook said, winking at Hoseok.

“Har Har.” Jimin said, smiling playfully at Jungkook.

Jungkook frowned.

“Do we have a problem?” He asked Jimin.

“What?” Jimin’s smile slipped.

“You keep saying that.” 

“Saying what?” Jimin asked. He looked genuinely lost as to what Jungkook was asking.

Jungkook looked at him for a moment before sighing, “Uh. Um. Nothing.”

“Tell me.” Jimin insisted.

“We are gonna go.” Hoseok said, standing up and pulling a very reluctant Taehyung along.

Once they were alone, Jimin repeated again, “Tell me.”

Jungkook did not know if he should say this or not. Especially since they were just beginning. Everything between them still felt so new and fragile.

However, this was still Jimin. His Jimin.

So Jungkook spoke, “You made comments this morning about me sleeping around and us not getting together sooner.”

Jimin blinked, “What?”

“This morning with Mingyu and now with the ‘you were blind until yesterday’ comment and then saying Har har.” Jungkook specified.

“Gukk.” Jimin began softly, “I was just teasing you. I did not mean it in a negative sense.”

“You didn’t?” Jungkook asked.

“No I didn’t.” Jimin assured, petting his hair softly, “I am sorry you felt that way. I will make sure to not tease you about it anymore.”

“No, it is okay. As long as it is teasing.” Jungkook said, now feeling a little stupid at having made something out of nothing.

Jimin smiled softly at Jungkook.

“Pick me up at 6?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook nodded enthusiastically.

They went about their day much in the usual fashion and though they had not texted after that, Jungkook did feel his excitement and anticipation building as the day went on.

Going home with Jimin that day felt different too.

They had come home on Jungkook’s bike numerous times in the past, yet this one felt different. More loaded. More… just… more.

There was a hint of awkwardness mingled with the other emotions in the air.

Cooking dinner together felt different.

Their banter felt different.

Jimin pecking him and then retreating out of Jungkook’s reach was new, Jungkook hugging Jimin from the back, unable to keep his lips to himself was new, sucking on Jimin ear was new, hearing Jimin say his name in a breathy whisper was new.

Going to bed with Jimin was new.

Softly confessing his love to Jimin in their dark bedroom was new.

This all was new and it was all going to be their new normal.

Hopefully for a lifetime to come.

The last thought Jungkook had as he drifted off to sleep with Jimin in his arms was that this day would forever be known as their anniversary.

He couldn’t wait to plan the first date for Jimin. He couldn’t wait to give Jimin everything he had and more.

🩷🩷🩷🩷

PRESENT TIMELINE:

Jungkook was nervous. He did not know how he was going to face Jimin. 

Would he even see Jimin on the campus?

With trembling hands, Jungkook got ready and made his way to his bike. Sitting on it without Jimin, made him feel a whole lot worse than before.

This was all wrong. Jimin not being in his life was wrong.

Still, he had no other option. He drove to the university and parked his bike.

Immediately he was aware of the dirty looks being thrown his way. The not so subtle whispers going around. Jungkook clenched his fist and made his way to his lecture, keeping his head down throughout the way.

Once in the lecture hall, Jungkook quietly sat in his regular place. He was just here for the attendance. He wanted to get this over with.

A few minutes later, Mingyu entered the now-filling classroom and took his seat next to Jungkook.

“Hi.” Jungkook said quietly.

Mingyu paused and then resumed removing his laptop but did not answer Jungkook.

“Mingyu please.” Jungkook said, his voice pained. Jungkook’s eyes burned with the weight of unshed tears.

Mingyu was silent for a moment and then said, “After the lecture.”

Jungkook nodded. A little relief filled him at the fact that Mingyu was at least speaking to him now.

Jungkook sat through the lecture. His mind was half on what the professor was droning about and half on Jimin.

Was he in his lab? Was Taehyung with Jimin as always?

Was Jimin doing alright?

Was he missing Jungkook as much as Jungkook missed Jimin?

Was Jimin eating enough? Jungkook always made sure that Jimin was well fed. Was he being taken care of now?

Suddenly Jungkook remembered an incident from their childhood. Jungkook had been 4 or 5 and had gotten into a habit of eating chalk. He simply liked the taste. Jimin, being a child himself, did not know that eating chalk was bad. He snuck chalks out of his own classroom for Jungkook.

Jungkook remembers promising Jimin to learn how to cook delicious dishes for Jimin when he grows up. It was partly why he had started helping out his mom in the kitchen. 

When Jungkook had been 8, he had gotten into a fight with his own brother and his cheek still bore the mark from it. His mother had been standing 4 feet from him but little Jungkook had cried and ran straight out of the house to Jimin with his bleeding cheek.

He had refused to leave Jimin’s arms even when his mother was trying to clean his wound and bandage him. He remembers Jimin feeding him after that, Jungkook’s head still pressed to his chest. Jimin had declared he would always be there whenever Jungkook needed him.

Tears pricked Jungkook’s eyes. He needed Jimin. Now more than ever.

The minutes dragged on till the lecture was finished.

Mingyu packed his bag and stood up. For a moment Jungkook panicked thinking his friend was going to give him the cold shoulder and leave him behind all alone. Again. But Mingyu simply jerked his head motioning to the outside.

“Coming?” Mingyu asked.

Jungkook nodded hurriedly and packed his own bag, following Mingyu outside.

“You look worse.” Mingyu commented as they walked side by side.

“Thanks.” Jungkook said sarcastically.

"At least you took a bath. Those first two weeks you were stinking so bad.” Mingyu said. Jungkook knew he meant to tease, but his voice sounded strained.

“Yeah.” Jungkook said. He still felt a little awkward. 

As much as he wanted to talk to Mingyu, he also felt a little hurt and angry at being abandoned by his friend. Especially at a time when Mingyu knew how vulnerable Jungkook was.

They finally reached an empty stretch of the corridor and Mingyu paused, sitting down against the wall. Jungkook followed suit.

“So?” Mingyu prompted.

“How is Jimin?” Jungkook asked quietly.

“Living with Taehyung. He is well.” Mingyu said.

Jungkook’s heart twisted. It was bittersweet knowing that Jimin was doing well. Bitter at Jimin not being in the same misery as he was and sweet knowing that Jimin did not deserve the misery that Jungkook was in.

“I know he is living with Taehyung. Yug told me the day after… after.” Jungkook trailed off, a lump forming in his throat.

“The day after you fucked up?” Mingyu asked, voice hard.

“Yeah.” Jungkook responded.

It was quiet for a moment before Mingyu spoke.

“Have you apologised to Jimin?” 

Jungkook shook his head, the ache in his chest spreading.

“What the fuck Gukk?” Mingyu snapped.

“You left me.” Jungkook said, tears gathering in his eyes.

“What?” Mingyu frowned, confused.

“You left me. After everything that happened. You… You left me. You knew I needed a friend and you left me.” Jungkook said, angry now at the tears escaping his eyes.

Mingyu’s jaw dropped, “I left you? I LEFT YOU?” He seethed.

Then he whacked Jungkook on the back of his head.

“Who do you think was coming in everyday to check on you? Who was making sure you ate and drank water? Who do you think was getting your notes and covering your ass in uni? Who do you think was on the phone with your very worried parents and siblings? Me, that's who.”

Jungkook opened and closed his mouth. The initial few days were all a little blurry to Jungkook.

“I dragged Yugyeom to your house because I needed help in dragging you out of your funk and you needed someone to talk to. I am your friend Jungkook and I knew you needed someone but I also have a right to be mad at you. At that point I knew if I would open my mouth and speak to you, I would say so many harsh things it would just make the entire thing even more of a clusterfuck. So I quietly did what was my duty as your friend and waited for the day when I could speak to you without my emotions overpowering my rational thinking.”

“Sorry.” Jungkook whispered.

“Never say I left you Jungkook. I will not. That is not the kind of friend I am. I will call you on your shit and fight with you over it but I will stay by your side. You understand that?” Mingyu snapped.

Jungkook nodded. Mingyu fumed for a moment and then visibly deflated.

“Gukk.” He called out softly and that was all it took for Jungkook to collapse into sobs.

Mingyu shushed him, rubbing his back gently as Jungkook shook with his sobs.

“I fucked up.” Jungkook hiccuped.

“We will set it right.” Mingyu said.

“He hates me.”

“Jimin could never hate you.” Mingyu said assuring.

“He does. He said I will never have him again.” Jungkook wailed out a cry, “I… I don’t want to live. Not like this. I don’t”

Alarmed Mingyu pulled Jungkook back from his neck, “Gukk, you can’t say that.”

“Not without him. Not without Jimin.” Jungkook said between hiccups, he shook his head violently, tears flowing down his face, “He is my entire life, I can’t… not without him.”

“Oh Gukkie.” Mingyu said, holding Jungkook tight.

Jungkook cried harder. He wanted Jimin. He wanted Jimin back.

He was ready to grovel at Jimin’s feet if that is what it took but he wanted. No. He needed Jimin back.

A hand pushed into his hair softly, petting him. 

Jungkook’s heart skipped a beat thinking it was Jimin but when he opened his eyes, Jin Hyung was crouched in front of him.

“Hyung.” Jungkook said, renewed sobs breaking free from him. None of his Hyungs had even asked him once how he was doing after the entire fiasco.

“Gukk-ah.” Jin Hyung said softly, a pained smile gracing his face and then Jungkook was suddenly crying in Jin Hyung’s neck. A hand rubbed at his back , trying to soothe him.

“Hyung, I want… Jimin… Want…” Jungkook got out between hiccups and sobs.

“Shh…Shh…I know.” Jin Hyung said, shushing him, “Calm down Gukk.”

“He hates me.” Jungkook cried.

“You and I both know it is impossible for Jimin to hate you.” Jin Hyung said, now rocking the both of them.

Jungkook shook his head, wanting to deny it but his mouth felt too dry, his eyes ached. Once Jungkook had calmed down a little he straightened back again. Mingyu passed him a handkerchief while Jin Hyung straightened his jacket.

“I heard this morning that you were on campus. So I came to meet you before your guard dog would bark at me.” Jin Hyung said, his eyes narrowing on Mingyu.

“What?” Jungkook asked, confused.

Mingyu looked sheepish for a moment before he defended, “He did not need you all coming there to scold him.”

“Who told you I was going to scold him?” Jin Hyung asked.

“Are you kidding me? You started talking so loud and so fast I couldn’t understand a word. You think he needed that?” Mingyu asked, jerking his head towards Jungkook.

Before Jin Hyung could speak, Jungkook interrupted, “Wait. You came to see me?”

“I did.” Jin Hyung nodded, “He did not let me in.” Jin Hyung said, voice snide now as he gestured towards Mingyu.

Mingyu shrugged. “You all left with Jimin while he was breaking down. Why should I have let you in?”

“How many times?” Jungkook asked Mingyu quietly.

“What?” Mingyu asked.

“How many times did they come for me?”

“He showed up twice in the second week with Min Yoongi. They stopped after that.”

Jungkook blinked, then nodded. They showed up at week 2 and gave up after 2 attempts.

A part of Jungkook couldn’t help but think that they could have tried harder. They could have tried to come by when Mingyu was at uni or when they knew Mingyu would not be with Jungkook.

Jungkook bumped his shoulders with Mingyu and then said, “Thank you.”

Jin Hyung’s jaw dropped. “Yah! You brat.”

Jungkook shook his head. “He did the right thing.”

Jin Hyung jerked back a little in disbelief. Jungkook stood up and pulled Mingyu along, “Let’s go.”

“Jungkook.” Jin Hyung called, but Jungkook did not look back.

He loved his Hyungs but he couldn’t help but feel a little betrayed. He still remembered that awful night when Jimin had walked out. Jungkook had called out for Jimin until his voice was hoarse, he had called out for Jin Hyung, for Yoongi but they had glared at him and simply left.

Left him there. All alone.

🩷🩷🩷🩷

6 MONTHS BACK:

Jimin was excited beyond measure. He couldn’t remember being this excited in his entire life.

He was so hopped up on excited energy that he couldn’t keep still. Even when he forced himself to sit still, his leg bounced or his fingers tapped on the desk. So much nervous jittery energy filled his body that it made it almost impossible for Jimin to make head or tail of his thoughts.

Today was going to be his first date with Jungkook.

He was currently sitting in a lecture. His laptop recorded it because he was too lost in his own thoughts, daydreaming up scenarios in his head.

This was Jungkook. There was no reason for him to be this nervous and excited.

But he was. Because this was not two friends going out. This was a date. Something Jimin had wanted since forever.

He no longer needed to conceal the love in his eyes, or hold himself back from taking Jungkook’s hand, or admonish himself for thinking about kissing Jungkook.

No. He did not need to do that any longer. He was free to think about whatever he wanted in relation to Jungkook because Jungkook was his now.

They had a date today. 

‘First of many’ - Jungkook had promised this morning.

Jimin still had trouble believing that this was his life. He still felt like he was daydreaming when he got to wake up to Jungkook everyday, that he got to kiss Jungkook whenever he wanted.

Jimin was in wonder of what his life had become and at the same time he was terrified of losing it.

He had confided in Taehyung two days back. He had told Taehyung how he was terrified and how a part of him was just waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Jimin did not focus on it much but a voice in his head kept nudging, kept asking - ‘How long before Jungkook gets bored?’, ‘Was Jungkook mistaken about his feelings simply because Jimin was not paying attention to him?’, ‘How did Jungkook go from 0 to 100 in a span of a month?’

That voice haunted him. It raised questions Jimin did not have answers too. Whenever that voice spoke in his head, Jimin’s smile would falter and he would break out in cold sweat.

Back then, when Jimin had been in love with an oblivious Jungkook; Jimin had thought that it would break him when Jungkook finally fell in love with someone.

Now though, Jimin is terrified, because he knows for a fact that he would never be able to love again, never want the touch of another man again; now that he has known what it is like to be with Jungkook.

Jimin did his best to squash that voice. Some nights he pretended to sleep while he wrestled with the voice in his head. Jungkook would be next to him, sleeping peacefully and Jimin would staunchly tell himself to enjoy the present rather than worrying about what if’s.

Yet. Each time they touched, each time they kissed, each time Jungkook said ‘I love you’, Jimin felt the voice get a little louder in his head.

Maybe he should talk to Jungkook about it.

Not today. Not on the eve of their first date. But soon. 

That evening when Jimin came out of their lecture hall, it was to find Jungkook casually leaning against the wall, helmet in hand, waiting for Jimin.

Jimin couldn’t help the smile he broke into at the sight.

“Gukkie.” He happily called out, skipping to Jungkook.

Jungkook huffed a laugh, “Happy to see me?” He asked, eyes sparkling and soft as he looked at Jimin.

Jimin nodded, “You better impress me with this date.”

“Oh yeah? Your expectations are high?” Jungkook asked as they started walking.

“Sky high.” Jimin said, teasing.

“What would you do if your expectations are not met?” Jungkook asked, playing along.

“I would leave your ass.” Jimin deadpanned, though he couldn’t help the twitch of his lips.

Jimin stopped when he realised Jungkook had come to an abrupt stop.

“Jungkook?” Jimin asked, walking back to stand in front of the man.

“Don’t talk about leaving me.” Jungkook frowned.

“I was teasing.” Jimin explained.

Jungkook shook his head, “Don’t talk about leaving me.” he repeated.

Jimin felt his heartstrings tug, “Sorry Gukkie.” He raised his hand and gently cradled Jungkook’s nape, fingers brushing against his hair.

“If you don’t like the date then we can have another and then another and then another until I get it right. Even if it means we are wrinkly, old and bent from the spine.” Jungkook said, encircling Jimin’s wrist and placing a light kiss against it.

“Oh? That long?” Jimin asked, heart skipping a beat.

Jungkook scoffed, “Not long enough.”

Jimin giggled. “Dummy.” He said, taking Jungkook’s hand on his own and tugging along.

“Where are we going?” Jimin asked, bouncing as he watched Jungkook mount his bike.

“Home.” Jungkook said.

“Home?” Jimin asked, the disappointment clear in his voice.

“Well. Home so that we can both change. I have had to watch you get ready for dates with other men. I would like to see that happen for me as well. Thank you very much.” Jungkook said, his voice a little sour.

Jimin grinned as he took his seat behind Jungkook.

The engine roared to life as they took off.

Jimin knew Jungkook had always been possessive of him. Even when they were kids, Jungkook would push off other children when they tried to play with Jimin or got too close. He shouldn’t be as surprised that the same possessiveness transferred to their relationship too.

Jimin remembers when Jimin was a senior in high school and was tutoring a student. A girl called Chaeyong who had a very obvious crush on Jimin. Back then, Jimin had not been out yet and he was still figuring things out. 

Jimin remembered very well how Jungkook had lashed out at Chaeyong for stealing Jimin and his time. Jimin had been embarrassed and fought with Jungkook. He also remembers what had happened the next day. Jungkook had shown up to the tutoring lessons and had stubbornly sat with them the entire time. 

Not talking once but glaring at Chaeyong whenever she got too close.

Jimin, who had just started to feel the first tendrils of love for Jungkook, had been secretly thrilled at that. He never told Jungkook about it though. Maybe he should.

When they reached home, Jungkook gestured towards Jimin.

“Well?”

“Well what?” Jimin asked, frowning.

“Start getting ready. I want to watch.” Jungkook said with a straight face.

Jimin felt a blush rise to his cheeks. This felt dirtier than expected.

“You were not seriously wanting to see me get ready right?” Jimin asked in disbelief.

“I had to watch when you got ready for Namjoon and Seokjin.” Jungkook said, looking two seconds away from stomping his feet.

“I had to watch you with two naked girls on this very couch.” Jimin said, pointing at the couch. A second later Jimin’s face fell.

Shit. Shit. Shit. Jungkook had already told Jimin he did not like it when Jimin brought up the past.

Jungkook’s face fell, “You saw that?”

Jimin shrugged, “I heard noises so I opened the door and then shut it back up in like 5 seconds.”

Silence descended on them.

“I am sorry.” Jimin began, remembering their conversation and how Jungkook thought Jimin had a problem with it, “I shouldn’t have - “

He was cut off when Jungkook abruptly gathered him in a bone crushing hug.

“I am the one who is sorry.” Jungkook choked out, “So fucking sorry Jimin. That must have been horrible.”

“It was.” Jimin confessed, voice in a whisper.

“Fuck. I hate that I took so long.” Jungkook said, his face buried in Jimin’s hair.

“But we are here now.” Jimin said, voice light.

“Still. You shouldn’t have had to see that.” Jungkook said, “If I were in your place. If I had seen you with two men in that position…” Jungkook trailed off and his arms somehow tightened even more on Jimin.

“I would have lost it Jimin.” Jungkook whispered, “I probably would be behind the bars for beating two men to death.”

Jimin huffed out a laugh, “Dramatic much?” He teased Jungkook.

Jungkook pulled back, cradling Jimin’s face with both his hands. “I am serious. I… I… Tell me how to make it up to you?”

“Just love me.” Jimin smile up at Jungkook, feeling his eyes tear up.

“I do. I love you. So much.”

“Keep loving me.” Jimin said, his voice breaking a little as his own insecurities reared up it’s head.

“Always.” Jungkook said. To Jimin, it sounded like a vow and a promise all at one.

Jimin raised his toes and pecked Jungkook’s lips before pulling back.

“Now let me get ready. I have a hot date waiting for me.” Jimin  said, winking at Jungkook.

“I am watching.” Jungkook said, following Jimin to their bedroom.

“No you are not.” Jimin shot back.

“Yes I am.” Jungkook said, stubbornly.

“Jungkook No.” Jimin whined.

“Jungkook, yes.” Jungkook grinned.

That is how Jimin ended up getting ready with Jungkook watching him like a hawk, casually commenting on how he looks hot in those tight jeans and how he was doing it purposely to make his date lose his mind.

Jimin would never admit it, but he enjoyed Jungkook’s attention while getting ready, more than he expected.

Their first date ended up being at an amusement park. Jimin stood at the gate watching the twinkling lights and then at Jungkook.

“Well?” Jungkook asked, bouncing on his feet.

“Amusement Park.” Jimin said, mirth in his voice.

“Yeah.” Jungkook bounced some more.

“I like it.” Jimin nodded approvingly.

“Well, we have 2 hours dedicated to this place.” Jungkook said, looking at the time on his phone, “Then we have another activity planned.”

“Oh?” Jimin asked, his curiosity piqued.

“Come on.” Jungkook all but dragged Jimin inside, his giddy laugh echoing around them.

Jimin had never felt so happy in his life. As goofy as this date was, Jimin couldn’t help but love it simply because it was with Jungkook. They could have a movie night at home and label it a date and Jimin would still be happy.

They spent the evening laughing, teasing and generally being themselves. 

Except. Well, except Jungkook had quickly gotten into a habit of intertwining their fingers, or pulling Jimin close and looping a hand around his waist, or kissing Jimin’s crown.

It flustered Jimin each time it happened. It also sent a thrill down his spine.

Each time giddy happiness filled him thinking that Jungkook was all his now.

Minutes quickly passed and before Jimin knew it was time for them to leave.

“But I don’t want to.” Jimin pouted.

Jungkook’s gaze dropped to his lips and then he shook his head. Jimin grinned despite himself.

“We have to.” Jungkook insisted, as he tugged Jimin along to the parking garage. “We paid tribute to our childhood and our friendship. Now we pay tribute to the adult in us.”

“Oh?” Jimin asked, curiously “What would that entail?"

“I would tell you.” Jungkook began and they reached the deserted parking basement where Jungkook's bike stood. “But before that…”

Jungkook trailed off as he pulled Jimin into himself. One hand held his waist and pulled him flush against Jungkook’s chest while the other buried itself in Jimin’s hair.

Then Jungkook was kissing Jimin. Deep and Hungry.

Jimin moaned. He couldn’t help it. This was all still so new and each touch from Jungkook felt like Jimin’s undoing.

Jimin's own hands clutched at Jungkook’s biceps desperately. He could do nothing but take it, as Jungkook bit his lip hard enough to be bordering on painful.

Then Jimin was being pushed. His back to the wall while Jungkook caged him in, kissing him again. Jungkook moved his hips a little causing glorious fiction to occur between their aroused cocks.

Jimin couldn’t help but whine into the kiss.

Jungkook pulled back, his lips never leaving Jimin’s skin as he trailed kisses down from his chin to his jaw to his neck.

“You drive me fucking crazy.” Jungkook whispered hotly against the skin of his neck.

“Gukk. Please.” Jimin begged, thrusting his own hips forward.

“I wanted to do that all evening.” Jungkook said, pulling back and caressing Jimin’s kiss swollen lips with his thumb.

“Fuck the second location. Take me home.” Jimin said, desperate to have Jungkook, all of him.

Jungkook bit his own lip and buried his face in Jimin’s neck.

“I promised you 5 dates.” Jungkook mumbled.

“Oh look, this one date was good enough to count as 5. Now take me home and fuck me.” Jimin snapped, wanting his release.

Of all the responses Jimin expected Jungkook to have, it was not the one he was currently experiencing.

Jimin could feel and see Jungkook’s shoulders shaking as he laughed, his face still buried in Jimin’s neck.

“Yah.” Jimin hit Jungkook on his bicep, “Why are you laughing?”

“I am sorry.” Jungkook said, pulling his face out, “You are so cute.” He cooed.

“Me asking you to fuck me is cute?” Jimin asked, exasperated.

“Very much so.” Jungkook said, pinching Jimin’s cheek causing Jimin to bat away his hands in annoyance.

Jungkook mounted his bike, motioning for Jimin to do the same.

“See if I let you touch me even after 5 dates. I am making you wait for at least 10.” Jimin said, as he adjusted himself on the seat.

“Sure Baby.” Jungkook snorted.

“You will see.” Jimin glared at the back of Jungkook’s head.

The engine rumbled to life and Jungkook spoke, “I am taking you home.”

“Really?” Jimin asked, the hope in his voice painfully evident.

Jungkook snorted, “So easy Jimin-ah.”

Jimin whacked Jungkook’s head which was a bad idea because he ended up hurting his own hand on Jungkook’s helmet.

Jimin could hear Jungkook snickering as they took off to the unknown destination number two.

Destination two ended up being the little Italian place that Jimin loved.

“Reminds me of Seokjin.” Jimin said, just to be petty.

Jungkook scowled and stopped, “Let’s go somewhere else.”

Jimin felt smug, “Nahh, I miss Hyung. Let's have dinner here.”

“I am not going in.” Jungkook said stubbornly, crossing his arms.

Jimin shrugged and took out his phone, “Let me see if Hyung is available. The staff here loved him last time.”

Jungkook snatched Jimin’s phone away.

“I know what you are doing.” Jungkook said, glaring at Jimin.

“What did I do?” Jimin asked a little too innocently but the smug smile blooming on his face gave him away.

Belatedly Jimin had a thought that Taehyung was rubbing off on him.

“Just come on.” Jungkook said, holding Jimin’s hand and tugging him along.

Once they were seated Jungkook turned to Jimin and asked -

“Do you have a thing for me being jealous?” 

Jimin blushed. Dammit. Busted.

Jungkook laughed, “Oh God. You do.”

“I can’t help it.” Jimin said, fidgeting with his finger, feeling embarrassed beyond words, “You have always been possessive of me and back then when I thought you did not want me…I cherished those moments a lot when you got possessive over me and I guess… it has now translated into me having a thing for it.”

Jimin shrugged and looked at the table.

When Jungkook did not speak, Jimin looked up.

Soft doe eyes stared back at him.

“Do you remember your teacher Ms.Choi?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin frowned. What did Ms.Choi have to do with any of this?

“Yeah?” Jimin asked, uncertain.

“Remember the time she made me kneel in the sun for an hour as a punishment?”

“Oh God Yeah. Your knees were raw by the end of it. You couldn’t even walk straight. Your parents had come to the school and I remember Emmonim was so mad, she was one second away from pulling Ms.Choi’s hair out.” Jimin laughed, “Why are we reminiscing about that though?”

“Do you remember what you did?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin frowned and thought back. He then instantly coloured, “Oh God. I had forgotten about that.” Jimin groaned, dropping his face in both his palms.

Jungkook laughed.

“You refused to sit in her class after that. You stubbornly used to sit outside during her lectures and neither your parents nor the principal could talk you out of it. Even the threat of failing your school year and having to repeat it couldn’t move you.” Jungkook said, a soft smile on his face.

“Yeah, well. She punished you and made you cry.” Jimin replied, looking up again.

“When they threatened you with a repeat year you said ‘Good. I would be closer to Gukkie in graduating then.’” Jungkook gave a soft laugh.

Jimin couldn’t help but smile too.

“I was really brave.” Jimin said, wondering if he would do the same now.

“That is when I started liking you.” Jungkook said casually.

Jimin’s eyes flew to Jungkook.

“You never said anything.” Jimin whispered.

“Yeah well. I was terrified. Boys were not supposed to like boys. At least that is what I thought. Not to mention I was a teenager and I kept thinking of you in all these sexual scenarios and then I felt so horribly guilty for looking at my best friend like that. Also, that was around the time you had every girl flocking to you” Jungkook shrugged, “I was terrified of losing you so I tamped it all down and buried it in my head and never let myself look at it again.”

“I liked you back then too.” Jimin confessed, “I was still figuring things out but… well, let's just say if there was a weighing scale - you could be sitting on the left and the entire world could be on the right and still the scale would tip towards the left.”

Jungkook frowned and then glanced at the ceiling, his pointer finger moving as he worked out what Jimin meant. 

Adorable. That was the only word that could describe Jungkook right now.

Jungkook then beamed at Jimin once he had figured it out.

“I never did tell me why I got punished.” Jungkook said, taking Jimin’s hand in his own.

Butterflies. Jimin had butterflies in his tummy.

“I know. You punched Jisoek.” Jimin said, watching in fascination as Jimin’s smaller fingers disappeared within Jungkook’s larger ones.

”You know why I punched him?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin shook his head glancing at Jungkook.

“You had your ballet classes with him and he said he was your best friend. Then he said I am too little to be your best friend. So I showed him how ‘little’ I was.” Jungkook said, making air quotes with his spare hand.

“I can have more than one best friend.” Jimin said, teasing.

“No you can’t.” Jungkook said, his grip on Jimin’s hand getting firmer.

“I have Taehyung.” Jimin said, smirking.

“He is a friend.” Jungkook said, his eyes narrowing.

“Soulmate.” Jimin said, a giggle working its way through him.

“I see what you are doing there. It is not going to work.” Jungkook said, removing his hand and leaning back in his chair.

“Isn’t it?” Jimin teased.

Whatever Jungkook was going to say was interrupted by their server greeting them.

“Hello. Welcome. What can I get you two lovely folks?” She asked.

Jimin smiled at her and she beamed.

“Oh I know you. You were here with that handsome man last time.” She said, excited.

Jungkook scowled, “Seriously?”

“Oh I am sorry.” The waitress said, flustered.

Jimin laughed. Not going to work his ass. Jungkook was possessive and territorial and nothing was going to change that.

The evening went much the same. Jungkook insisted he was not jealous and Jimin purposefully tried to say and do things to get a reaction out of Jungkook.

All in all, Jimin was having the time of his life. He never thought he could have this with Jungkook. But right now, right here, while he was living it. He had to say it was so much more than he had imagined it to be.

When it was time for them to leave, silence descended on them.

It was not an uncomfortable silence however, it was charged with anticipation.

Afterall, how many people could say that they are going back to the same house after a first date and would do nothing but cuddle because…well, they lived in the same house and now shared the same bed.

Jimin bit his lip as he looked at Jungkook’s form. They were on the bike currently, making their way back home. 

Strong shoulders gave way to a smaller waist.

Jimin felt delirious with happiness and anticipation.

Jungkook was his. He could do whatever he wanted.

On a whim, Jimin did what he had wanted to do each time they were on a bike together.

Jimin scooted forward, wrapping his arms around Jungkook’s waist and draping himself over Jungkook.

Jimin knew for a fact that it affected Jungkook as much as it affected him because Jimin could feel Jungkook’s heart booming through his back.

Simply because he could, Jimin let his hands wander, across his waist, his chest, his hips.

Then Jungkook’s was driving with one hand, his spare hand brought Jimin’s hand back to his waist and squeezed them before letting go.

Feeling naughty, Jimin let his hands wander again, only for Jungkook to stop him again.

This went on for another 2 times before which they were home.

Once the rumble of the bike had died down, Jungkook spoke.

“Jimin-shi.” His voice was husky.

Jimin gulped, “Okay Bye.” Jimin announced and all but ran away from Jungkook.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. Why had he run away?

Regardless, Jimin reached their door and hurriedly closed it behind himself. His heart was thudding in his chest. Was he supposed to just sleep in Jungkook’s bed now?

Long seconds passed before the door bell rang.

Jimin gathered his nerves and opened the door.

“Hello.” Jungkook said, wearing an amused expression.

“How was your date?” Jimin asked cheekily.

“Ehhh! Kind of ran off. Minus points.” Jungkook said casually, walking in towards their bedroom.

Jimin’s jaw dropped, “Minus points?”

“Mhm.” Jungkook hummed, “Wanted to kiss him but he ran off. No second date from my end.”

Jimin huffed, now a little annoyed, “There will be a second date and I am planning it.”

Jungkook laughed, taking off his shirt and changing into his home clothes. Jimin was shamelessly ogling Jungkook.

“Just going to stand there and watch? Just two minutes ago you couldn’t keep your hands to yourself.” Jungkook teased, amused.

“Hey, my boyfriend. My rules. I will watch all I want.” Jimin said, crossing his arms.

Jungkook’s eyes darkened, “I like it when you say it like that.”

Jimin squirmed, “I am gonna go change.” He announced, taking his clothes and making a beeline for the bathroom.

“Since when do you change in the bathroom?” Jungkook asked behind him but Jimin refused to answer.

How was he supposed to say that if he took his clothes off now he would probably go down on his knees and beg for Jungkook?

Jimin took longer than necessary coming out of the bathroom.

By the time he had emerged, Jungkook was sitting comfortably tapping on his phone.

“Hey there.” Jungkook said, looking up from his phone on Jimin’s arrival.

“Hey.” Jimin parroted back, taking his spot beside Jungkook.

“Why do you keep running off?” Jungkook asked.

“I don’t know.” Jimin said.

“Jimin-ah.” Jungkook said, his voice holding a warning.

Jimin shrugged, “If I don’t run I am going to end up humping you like a rabid animal.” 

Jungkook stared for a moment, then blinked and then burst out into laughter.

Jimin scowled, hitting Jungkook with the pillow.

“Fuck off.”

That just made Jungkook laugh harder.

Jimin’s phone ringing saved Jungkook from further assault from Jimin's pillow.

“Tae.” Jimin happily answered his phone.

It was comical, just how fast Jungkook’s laughter died down.

Jimin giggled.

“What does he want now?” Jungkook asked frowning and crossing his arms across his chest petulantly.

“How was the date?” Taehyung squealed.

“Ehhhh A five.” Jimin said and Jungkook raised a brow.

“He is beside you, isn’t he?” Taehyung asked.

Jimin giggled, “Yep.”

“Put me on speaker.” Taehyung insisted.

Jimin dutifully put the call on speaker. Jungkook glared at the offending device.

“Hey Jiminie, why are you in bed with him?” Taehyung asked in a condescending voice.

“Where the fuck else is he supposed to be?” Jungkook snarled.

“In my bed.” Taehyung answered simply.

Jimin couldn’t stop giggling. He was secretly thrilled at this turn of events.

“Excuse me?” Jungkook asked, disbelief coating his voice, “Can you believe this moron?” He asked Jimin.

Taehyung tskd, “You’ll just had a date. Why would you end up in the same bed? It takes away the magic you know. Absence makes the heart grow fonder and what not.” 

“No one asked you.” Jungkook said huffing.

“Soulmate duties, I have to inform my Jiminie.” Taehyung said, nonchalant.

“Not yours.” Jungkook gritted out.

“Denial.” Taehyung sing-songed, “Anyways Jiminie, come to me. My bed awaits. I'll cuddle you all night like we did that night.”

Jungkook legit growled, startling Jimin.

“Aren’t you going to say anything Jimin-ah?” Jungkook demanded, looking at Jimin. 

Jungkook was evidently seething and Jimin couldn’t help but enjoy it.

“I mean… his bed is very comfortable.” Jimin said, shrugging.

“You are NOT sleeping in someone else's bed.” Jungkook declared.

“This Alpha male bullshit is getting old.” Taehyung yawned over the call.

“Nobody asked you.” Jungkook snapped.

“You really want him, Jiminie?” Taehyung asked, voice serious.

“Stop asking him that.” Jungkook said, annoyed.

Jimin giggled some more causing Jungkook to scowl.

“Listen here you little best friend stealing brat. Jimin is mine and he is sleeping in my bed. This night and all other nights to come.” Jungkook said, glaring at the phone.

“So you have a problem that I stole your best friend?” Taehyung asked.

“Yes.” Jungkook huffed.

“You want your best friend back?” Taehyung asked.

“Yes.” Jungkook huffed.

Jimin knew Taehyung very well. He could see Jungkook was walking into a trap but he was having too much fun to warn his puppy about the big bad wolf.

“So if I give you your best friend back you would no longer be all huffy?” Taehyung asked.

“Yes.” Jungkook said, triumphant.

“Alright. I’ll give you back your bestie. I won’t interfere.” Taehyung said sincerely.

“Good.” Jungkook said, smug.

“I am stealing the boyfriend tag instead. Jiminie we are going on a date tomorrow and speaking of which, what do you think of taking a pottery class together.”

“No.” Jungkook shouted but taehyung kept speaking.

“You know we can enjoy some nice intimacy.”

“No.” Jungkook shouted again, trying to get to the phone. Jimin kept it put of reach while Taehyung continued talking.

“You and me. Some wet mud. Me hugging you from behind, us making something together.” Taehyung sighed, “It would be beautiful. You would fit so perfectly against me.”

“Fuck off.” Jungkook thundered.

Jimin dissolved into giggles, promptly falling off the bed in his mirth.

A thud echoed and Taehyung spoke, “You fell down, didn’t you?”

Jimin giggled out a yes only to have Jungkook physically lift him up and put him back on the bed.

“See what you did?” Jungkook complained to Taehyung.

“Some boyfriend you have Jiminie. He can’t even take care of you.” Taehyung said, judgment evident in his voice.

Jungkook clenched his teeth and Jimin finally felt a little bad.

“Taehyung. Jungkook is lovely.” Jimin said softly, caressing Jungkook’s cheeks.

Jungkook’s eyes softened, a smile gracing his lips.

“Ugh! You are equally whipped.” Taehyung groaned.

“And don’t you forget it.” Jungkook warned, still smiling at Jimin and leaning closer.

“Yeah Yeah. I'll speak to you tomorrow Jiminie.” Taehyung said, before the line went off.

Then Jimin was leaning forward, capturing Jungkook’s lips in a soft kiss.

Unlike their usually hurried and hot make out session, this was simply slow, savoring, loving.

When Jungkook pulled back Jimin felt like a new man. Like a man who had found faith in a new religion.

“I had fun today.” Jimin whispered.

Jungkook hummed, pulling Jimin onto his lap, “Me too.”

They sat close, nuzzling each other, placing soft kisses now and again. Just content to be near each other.

A few seconds later Jungkook spoke, “You know this pottery date idea Taehyung had was not bad.”

Jimin hummed, “Sure. But I am planning the next date.”

Jungkook pulled back, “Why?”

“Why not?” Jimin shrugged,

Jungkook stared at Jimin for a moment and then relented, “Alright.”

That night, sleeping in Jungkook’s arms, Jimin couldn’t believe this was his life.

He had the love of his life who doted on him so much. He had amazing friends. He was at the top of his faculty. There was truly nothing he wanted in life anymore.

The next morning, Jimin sat in his lab but he kept slipping into his thoughts, recalling the date they had. The morning breakfast they shared, the ride to their uni when Jungkook had kissed Jimin softly, promising lunch together.

“That is your future." Taehyung whispered to Hoseok, nodding towards Jimin.

Jimin looked at his two friends.

“Hey I am not that bad.” Jimin said, defensive.

“You are practically floating on a cloud, Jimin-ah.” Hoseok sniggered.

Taehyung nodded sagely, “There is a permanent blush on your cheeks.”

Jimin cupped his own cheeks, “No there isn’t.”

Silence reigned for a second before Hoseok and Taehyung burst out laughing.

“How is he this cute?” Hoseok cooed.

“Tell me about it.” Taehyung said.

“Enough about me.” Jimin declared, “Hobi Hyung. Any luck with Yoongi Hyung?”

Taehyung groaned.

“He keeps running away.” Hoseok said, sadly.

They looked at Taehyung expectantly, who sighed like this was paining him to do so.

“Just keep at it. He will give in eventually.” Taehyung said.

They still kept staring at taehyung who huffed in defeat and then said -

“Fine. But only because I love my brother and want him to be happy.” He looked at Hoseok then, “Hyung squealed like a little school girl the first time you asked him out. I have never seen him dance but he did that day.” Taehyung shuddered, “It was painful to watch.”

Hoseok laughed, “Really?”

Taehyung nodded, “Really.”

“I am gonna get my man.” Hoseok declared.

“Yeah, you are.” Jimin and Taehyung said in unison.

They then worked on their respective studies for a while before there was a knock on the door.

“Deja-vu.” Taehyung whispered.

“Jungkook?” Hoseok whispered.

Jimin shrugged and then called for the person to enter.

A second later a very enthusiastic Namjoon was bounding in. He all but barreled into Jimin. Jimin lost his balance on his chair, his arms cartwheeling. Namjoon straightened Jimin and then hugged him tight.

“Jimin-ah. You little genius.” Namjoon declared, laughing.

“Hyunggg.” Jimin whined, being bent at an unnatural angle.

“Sorry. Sorry.” Namjoon pulled back and straightened.

“Never a dull day since we became friends.” Taheyung mused, grinning.

“Holy shit. You are Kim Namjoon.” Hosoek said.

“Hello.” Namjoon waved awkwardly.

Taehyung blinked. Hoseok raised his eyebrows and then they both cooed.

Namjoon sputtered.

Jimin laughed.

“What brings you here Joonie Hyung?” Jimin asked.

“I went on that date with Seokjin.” Namjoon said, shyly.

Taehyung whistled, “How did it go?”

“Damn those two would look good together.” Hoseok agreed.

Namjoon looked at them and then at Jimin questioningly.

“I now come with an entourage apparently.” Jimin said smiling.

Namjoon gave a small laugh.

“So? How was it?” Taehyung asked again.

“It was…everything. I don’t have words to describe it.” Namjoon said, beaming at them.

“Ooooo.” Jimin squealed, “I knew you two would be perfect for each other.”

“Though, I have to say. It started a little awkward though.” Namjoon said, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

“What did you do?” Jimin asked sternly. Taehyung and Hoseok sniggered.

“Well, it was a blind date for me and I did know it was with THE Kim Seokjin so at first I thought I was being pranked so I was very rude and uptight.” Namjoon winced.

“Oh God.” Jimin groaned.

“He took it in stride though. Eventually I did get comfortable.” Namjoon said, a silly smile gracing his lips. He then frowned, “Though now I am in the dog house. I asked him out on a second date and he said I have to earn it.”

Jimin laughed, “Sounds very much like Jin Hyung.”

“What are you going to do?” Hoseok asked.

“Whatever it takes.” Namjoon said with conviction.

Hoseok blinked, “That is weirdly motivational. I am going to go get my man.” Hoseok stood up abruptly and marched out of the lab.

“Wait for me. I am going to go get my man too.” Namjoon called. He then pinched Jimin’s cheeks and cooed, “My little genius.” Then he was gone.

Silence descended in the lab.

Jimin and Taehyung looked at each other, goofy smiles in place, they then shrugged, going back to their work.

Usually, Jimin did not bother with keeping a track of time when he was in his lab and working. However this time he did keep a track of time. To be prepared, he even set an alarm for lunch time because he had promised Jungkook they would have lunch together in the cafeteria.

Jimin’s alarm rang and he promptly shut his laptop up.

Taehyung raised his eyebrows, “Someone’s excited.”

“Yeah. Well. I am.” Jimin said, packing his things.

Taehyung smiled and went back to his work.

“You coming?” Jimin asked.

“Nah.” Taehyung said, still lost in his reading, “I teased the poor guy too much last night. Let him have a peaceful lunch with you.”

Jimin grinned, “That is why I love you.”

Taehyung rolled his eyes, “Do not let that overgrown puppy hear you say that.”

Jimin laughed, exiting his lab. He all but sprinted to the cafeteria, eager to see Jungkook.

He had seen Jungkook just a few hours ago yet it felt like ages.

On entering the cafeteria, Jimin paused and looked around. He found Jungkook standing at the far end, leaning against a walk and animatedly talking to a girl who was laughing along with what Jungkook was saying.

Jimin felt his heart twist. He had seen this view a thousand times in the past. Back when they weren’t together, Jimin had seen this multiple times.

Jungkook just had a natural charm that made everyone flock to him.

Was Jungkook flirting with her?

Jimin shook his head. No. His Jungkook wouldn’t do that to him.

“Hey Jimin.” Haeson greeted him.

“Hey.” Jimin said, giving back a polite smile.

Haeson followed his line of sight and then sighed, “You deserve better Jimin. How many times is he going to cheat on you?”

“No. That is not - “ Jimin began, wanting to clear the air but Haeson was already walking away.

Should he approach Jungkook? Would he be interrupting?

Maybe he should just take his lunch and sit at one of the tables until Jungkook spots him.

Jimin looked around and then back at Jungkook, biting his lip, feeling indecisive.

Jungkook knew Jimin was coming here. Why was he doing this then? 

Jimin couldn’t help but fret.

Finally, steeling himself, Jimin walked towards Jungkook.

“Hi.” Jimin said as he neared them. His voice was too cheerful and too high but he smiled.

“Hey baby.” Jungkook called smiling, easily slipping his hand around Jimin’s waist and placing a kiss on Jimin’s crown.

Jimin instinctively relaxed.

“Oh this is Yoona. She is the one who is going for the US internship now.” Jungkook said, introducing them.

“Hi. Nice to meet you.” Jimin said, shaking her hand.

“Likewise Jimin. I was just curious why Jungkook passed up on the opportunity and he has been waxing poetic about you.” Yoona said, wiggling her brows.

Jimin blushed.

Jungkook chuckled, “Well can you blame me?”

Yoona laughed. They exchanged some more words, post which Yoona took her leave.

“Let’s get you fed.” Jungkook said, placing another kiss against Jimin’s temple.

Jimin felt horrible. Why was he doubting Jungkook? It was not like Jungkook had given him any reason to doubt him.

“Jimin?” Jungkook asked, furrowing his brows.

“Sorry.” Jimin blurted out.

“Sorry? Why?” Jungkook asked.

“I thought… I thought you were flirting with her.” Jimin said, his voice small.

Jimin squirmed as Jungkook continued to stare at him.

“I am sorry.” Jimin repeated.

Jungkook shook his head, “Why? Why did you think that?” 

“I don’t know.” Jimin said, looking down, feeling horrible with every passing second.

It was quiet for a moment before Jungkook spoke again in a low voice.

“Jimin-ah, are you sure you don’t have a problem with my past?”

“Yes. Yes.” Jimin rushed to reassure, looking up at Jungkook’s concerned face, “I am sure. I don’t have a problem with it.”

“Baby, I am many things but I wouldn’t cheat on you.” Jungkook said.

Jimin’s heart broke at the sadness in Jungkook’s voice.

“I know.” Jimin said.

Jungkook continued to look at Jimin, his eyes piercing.

“Do you promise to come talk to me if this ever starts bothering you?” Jungkook asked.

“I don’t have a problem with your past.” Jimin insisted.

“I understand that.” Jungkook replied slowly, “But I still want you to know that you can come speak to me anytime about it if it bothers you.”

“And what would you do? Erase said past?” Jimin snapped. Why wouldn’t Jungkook let it go?

Jungkook blinked, “Well, I haven't found a way to time travel yet.” he chuckled nervously.

“I am hungry.” Jimin said, changing the subject.

That perked Jungkook up.

“Let’s go.” Jungkook said, smiling and intertwining their fingers as he tugged Jimin along to the counter.

Once they were seated with their food, Jimin relaxed. He couldn’t help but melt at watching Jungkook eat with such vigour.

“So the date between Namjoon and Jin Hyung went well.” Jimin informed, “I might have made a couple.”

“Oh.” Jungkook said, “Good riddance.” He joked.

“Hey…!!!” Jimin said, affronted though he matched the smile that Jungkook wore.

“What? Both were my competition. Genius move Baby.” Jungkook cheered.

“Competition?” Jimin snorted, “As if.”

“Hey, I can compete with them.” Jungkook said, puffing out his chest.

“Jungkook-ah, if you think I have eyes for anyone but you then you are an idiot.” Jimin said, itching to do something stupid like go sit on Jungkook’s lap or to peck his lips.

Jungkook’s cheeks tinted pink, “Flowery words.” He muttered, though his smile gave away his happiness.

“I am serious.” Jimin said, enjoying flustering his boyfriend, “How do I explain this? It is like I see the world in muted colours and then my sight lands on you. You are the only one I see in bright colours, the right focus and high resolution.” Jimin sighed dreamily, propping his chin on his folded hands.

Jungkook’s blush deepened.

“Jiminnnn” he whined, cupping his now red ears.

Jimin giggled. He felt endeared beyond words. How cute was his boyfriend!? Suddenly Jimin remembered a 6 year old Jungkook running behind Jimin and cupping his ears similarly whenever Jimin pinched his cheeks and called him cute.

Jimin grinned, biting his lip.

Dammit, what he wouldn’t give to be alone with Jungkook right now.

They were interrupted when someone plopped into the seat next to Jungkook.

“Oh, it’s you again.” Jungkook said dryly.

“Watch it.” Yoongi said, setting his food on the table.

“Hey Hyung.” Jimin greeted, “Tae is still in my lab.”

Yoongi nodded, “Did he have lunch?” He asked, brows furrowed.

“He has a lecture at 3 so he will be having a late lunch," Jimin informed. He could see Jungkook sulking out of the corner of his eyes.

Suddenly Yoongi groaned. Jimin blinked, confused. It wasn’t until Hoseok was pulling the chair besides Jimin that he realised why Yoongi’s mood had shifted.

“Hey you.” Hoseok greeted, enthusiastically.

“You keep following me.” Yoongi accused.

“I am doing what it takes to get the future I want.” Hoseok declared, brows wiggling.

“Jungkook-ah.” Yoongi said, elbowing Jungkook, “I want to get a restraining order against this man. Be my witness.”

Jungkook looked between the two and then at Jimin, “I am all for love.” Jungkook said, winking at Jimin, “Hobi Hyung, I’ll get you Yoongi Hyung’s password to his music studio.”

Hoseok beamed.

Yoongi snorted, “No one but me knows the password.”

Jungkook shrugged, “Piece of cake for me.”

“Computer Science student.” Jimin explained to an alarmed Yoongi.

“Best in my faculty.” Jungkook boasted.

“No. Bad puppy.” Yoongi scolded.

Silence reigned for two seconds before Jimin and Hoseok burst out laughing. Even Yoongi was snickering, his gummy smile on display.

Jungkook watched with his jaw dropped open.

“Dammit Tae.” Jungkook grumbled, “He isn’t even here and still is a pain in my ass.”

“That’s my brother.” Yoongi sing-songed, a hint of pride shining through his voice.

Hoseok held out a piece of meat between his chopsticks and extended it to Jungkook, who took it enthusiastically in his mouth. Typical Jungkook when it comes to food.

“Good puppy.” Hoseok praised grinning widely.

Jungkook scowled and they dissolved into laughter again.

“So?” Hoseok began, “These two have gone on a date now.” He gestured towards Jimin and Jungkook, “Namjoon and Seokjin have gone on a date also. When will you let me take you out?” He asked Yoongi.

Yoongi paused, “You know Jin Hyung?”

Hoseok frowned, “You know him?”

Yoongi nodded, “I do. He is my friend.”

“Small world.” Jimin commented.

“Stop avoiding the question, grumpy.” Jungkook snipped.

Yoongi cleared his throat, “I am your Hyung.”

“Stop avoiding the question, grumpy hyung.” Jungkook repeated in a dry voice.

Jimin stifled his giggles, earning a smile from Jungkook.

“I am not going on a date with you.” Yoongi pointed at Hoseok with his chopsticks.

“Oh you are.” Hoseok said, leaning back in his chair confidently, throwing one arm behind his own chair’s backrest.

Yoongi blinked, then gulped, evidently tongue-tied.

Jungkook watched, then snorted, “Yeah, grumpy hyung. You are not gonna last.”

Yoongi shook his head. He then stood up and began walking away.

Hoseok followed suit.

“Where are you going?” Jimin called out to Hoseok.

“Following my dreams.” Hoseok said, without turning back, following Yoongi out of the cafeteria.

“I like Yoongi Hyung more than his brother.” Jungkook said, looking at the retreating figures.

“Don't let Tae hear you say that.” Jimin said and instantly knew it was the wrong thing to say when Jungkook’s eyes lit up devilishly.

“Gukk. No.” Jimin whined.

“Gukk. Yes.” Jungkook cheered.

Jimin couldn’t help laughing in happiness.

It had been a week since their first date and today Jimin had taken it upon himself to plan for their second date.

Currently he was setting up in their living room.

It was Jimin and Jungkook’s day off from the university but Jimin had kicked Jungkook out of the house. Jungkook had a freelance project that he needed to complete and would just be slouched in one corner typing away. So Jimin had insisted Jungkook go to the library to work in peace while Jimin prepared.

Initially Jimin had been so confused as to what to plan. He wanted to plan an activity with Jungkook, something they could both do and enjoy. Traditional dates never really appealed to Jimin. However, he also wanted to have some quiet intimate time with Jungkook.

It had been a week of constant kissing and groping. Heavy makeout sessions which never really crossed the line. Jungkook always pulled back. ALWAYS. It was driving Jimin mad.

Jungkook was fine if Jimin’s hand slipped underneath his shirt, but the moment Jimin touched his pants, he would pull back. Once Jimin had tried to get his shirt off and Jungkook had pulled back. Apparently as long as it is kissing and groping over the clothes, it was allowed.

Jimin would have been worried that Jungkook was second guessing things but he knew this was as hard for Jungkook as it was for him. Both of them had been taking cold showers for a week now.

A week of waking up to a hard Jungkook and wanting him desperately only for Jungkook to pull back.

Jimin was sure his balls would drop off if he had to wait till the 5th date.

Jimin had even gone so far as to propose that they have a date each day and get it over with. Jungkook however had been adamant that each date was to happen once a week, which meant 5 weeks that Jimin had to torture himself.

A few days back, Jimin had been so frustrated, he had simply walked out of their bathroom and into their room with only a towel wrapped around himself. He had made a great show of strutting around and pushing his damp hair back.

The moment his hand touched his own towel Jungkook had bolted out of the room and then out of the house. A very frustrated Jin Hyung had called him asking him to leash his puppy. Apparently Jungkook was hiding at Jin Hyung’s house complaining of his mean boyfriend.

Jimin had about enough of the heavy make out sessions and the frantic masturbation when Jungkook pulled back.

He had craved for Jungkook since he knew what intimacy and sex was. Now that he had Jungkook, he did not want to wait. Not even 5 seconds, let alone 5 weeks.

Jimin had confided in Taehyung and it had been the right thing to do.

Right now, Jimin had made a blanket fort much like they did when they were children and had movie nights. He had prepared all of Jungkook’s favourite snacks and dinner. Soft candles were lit around the room and Jimin had gotten Jungkook flowers, which he would give Jungkook once he got home. This was the date, a romantic gesture replicating the very first date Jungkook had planned for Jimin without his knowledge. The date that never happened because back then Jimin had been unaware.

Now as to why Jimin was planning something indoor had Taehyung’s handprints all over it. Taehyung had taken Jimin shopping and what a trip that had been. Jimin had blushed and blushed while Taehyung yapped and complimented him casually.

Jimin was on a mission to seduce Jungkook. Once and for all. Fuck the 5 dates. He wanted that cock and he wanted it NOW.

So here Jimin was, devoid of any hair below his eyelashes, wearing the tightest shorts he had ever seen. Half ass looked phenomenal. Like two soft buns. The shorts were tight enough to hug the curve of his ass and yet show off each cheek individually. Jimin would never admit it but he had stared at his own ass in awe for a good 15 minutes. Since he could neither wear boxers, nor tighty whities under the shorts, he had decided on going commando, only for Taehyung to shove a pink lacy underwear at his chest, demanding he wear that. A crop top that left little to imagination and a spray of the scent that Jungkook liked.

Jimin was ready to be railed six ways to Sunday. He was also terribly nervous. He swore if this did not work, he would not be making out with Jungkook anymore. Jungkook and his great restraint would have to wait till 10 dates to even kiss Jimin.

Jimin looked around the house. Everything was ready.

Nervous anticipation filled his tummy when he received a text from Jungkook saying - ‘Leaving from here. Will be home in 15 mins.’

Jimin sat on the sofa, careful not to disturb the fort. He couldn’t wait for Jungkook to come home.

To say Jungkook was eager would be an understatement.

Jimin had been insistent on planning the second date for them. Jungkook was curious because Jimin had been nervous since the last two days. No amount of prying on Jungkook’s part could get Jimin to admit what he was planning. 

Whenever Jungkook asked, Jimin just got really flustered and changed the topic. It began with Jungkook’s curiosity but he was having way too much fun flustering Jimin.

He had a freelance project due for the next day and he had been horribly lagging behind. Usually, Jungkook just sat on their couch and tapped away in peace, needing his full concentration on the task when he was in the zone, however, he knew with the impending date he would find it hard to concentrate. So when Jimin had proposed that Jungkook go to the library, he had not put up much of a fight. He needed to be away from any distractions if he was going to get the work done.

Jungkook was proud of himself for finishing most of what was needed. There were some kinks he needed to iron out but that could wait until tomorrow. He had promised Jimin that he would be home by 6.30 and he did not intend to make Jimin wait for even a minute past that.

Parking his bike, Jungkook took off his helmet wondering what Jimin had planned.

Was it some couples activity? Jimin had seen the videos of couples drawing each other’s portraits and had offhandedly mentioned to Jungkook that they should try it.

Would it be that? 

Excited, Jungkook bounced all the way till their door.

Keying in the code, Jungkook swung the door open and stared.

Holy Shit!

Their house looked…well…pretty. 

The house itself was dark but electric candles lit the room in a cozy vibe. There were small vases with flowers lined along the shelves. Jungkook could see a card tucked below each vase.

Curious he stepped forward and picked up the first one”

‘These flowers for the man who has had my heart since I knew what love is.’

A giddy smile lit up Jungkook’s face. Curious, he walked to the second vase and picked up the card.

‘If I could give you one thing - it would be the ability to see you through my eyes. Only then would you realise how special you are to me.’

Jungkook felt a sting in his eyes but he held it back. Hurrying to pick up the third card.

‘Pen and paper can never capture the essence of what I feel for you. Ink can never be deep enough for that. There aren’t enough words in all the languages in the world to express that. I will weave my love for you in the very fabric of this universe. The stars would sing of it. I might not exist, but my love for you will exist until time, immortal.’

Jungkook wiped a stray tear that had fallen off his eyes. He stared at the next card, feeling anticipation coursing through him.

‘When I am in your arms looking into your eyes, I am lost to the world. Nothing exists but you and me. The cosmos could collapse around us and I would happily spend a bajjillion years as star dust floating through space knowing that there would come a moment in time when I would find you again. When I would be in your arms looking into your eyes with the same love.’

“Damn you, you stuck, perfect, physicist.” Jungkook mumbled, angrily swiping at the tears in his eyes.

Jungkook frantically looked around for Jimin, only to pause.

Blanket Forts! Jungkook had not been in one since he had been 13. They used to do this all the time when they were little. A small projector was reflecting light on the far wall.

So this is what they were doing? Movie night? Jungkook was thrilled. After reading the little cards, Jungkook did not want to go out and share Jimin with the world.

This suited him just fine. Just them, in their own little bubble. Far removed from the world.

“Jimin.” Jungkook called, his patience wearing thin. He needed to see his baby and he needed to see him NOW.

Jimin's head peaked out of the blanket fort.

“Hey.” Jimin called out shyly. He had a blush on his face, in the dim lights, he looked absolutely ethereal.

“Hey yourself.” Jungkook smiled, setting his bag on the ground and moving towards Jimin.

“No.” Jimin said.

“No?” Jungkook asked incredulously, still holding the cards in his hand.

“Go wash up and change first.” Jimin said.

“If you think I am letting you out of my sight after the crazy romantic cards.” Jungkook waved them around, “You have lost your mind.”

“Gukkk….please.” Jimin all but whined, “Respect the sanctity of the fort.”

“Jimin-ah.” Jungkook whined right back.

“We are going to be here for a long time. Just. Please.” Jimin said.

Jungkook sighed, about to give in when he frowned, “Why aren’t you coming out?”

Jimin’s blush intensified and he refused to look at Jungkook, “I am comfy here.”

“You are lying.” Jungkook said confidently.

At that Jimin raised his eyes in defiance, “The sooner you wash up and change, the sooner you can get comfy with me here.”

Jungkook blinked. Shit. The way Jimin emphasized the word comfy, had Jungkook imagining all sorts of naughty things.

Jungkook turned around without a word and stalked back to their room. Once the door closed behind him, he let out a harsh sigh and shook his head.

“Bad Jungkook.” He told himself, “Stop thinking of that. Jimin deserves more. You promised him 5 dates.”

He washed up and changed in record time.

Jungkook paused before opening the door, coaching himself. 

Do Not pounce on Jimin.

Do Not take it farther than necessary.

Jimin deserves more.

Jimin deserves all the 5 dates.

There will be time for sex later.

Jungkook winced. He was having a hard time lately to pull back whenever Jimin got too handsy. He could see the disappointment in Jimin’s eyes each time that happened.

Not to mention how Jungkook’s dick refused to go down no matter how many times he pleasured himself. It was becoming a real problem for him to continue doing something as simple as walking.

Taking a deep breath after once again mentally repeating the same things to himself, Jungkook opened the door and froze.

Jungkook was pretty sure he was not breathing anymore but who cares when Jimin stood there looking like that.

Jungkook felt his mouth go dry.

Holy fucking shit!

Jimin had just rounded the corner from the kitchen and Jungkook saw what he was wearing.

Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!

Tight. That's the first thing that Jungkook thought. Jimin was wearing a shirt that was 2 sizes too small for him. A sliver of his waist visible that looked fucking delectable.

And then those shorts. Those damn shorts on his hips. Was it even called shorts when it was so tiny? Even boxers covered more skin than that skimpy piece of clothing.

Jimin had not yet seen Jungkook and merrily walked from the kitchen to the living room fort.

Then Jimin turned his back and Jungkook got a view from the behind.

Jungkook was sure he was having a stroke.

Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!

His cock twitched, already half hard. Jimin’s ass was all but hanging out of it. Jungkook wanted to squeeze it. Hard.

Jimin looked downright sinful in the dim lighting. His shin was practically shining, beckoning Jungkook.

Jungkook clenched his hands at his sides. What was Jimin even doing? Was he doing this on purpose? How was Jimin even breathing in that shit?

At this point, Jungkook realised he himself was not breathing. The pressure on his chest increased and Jungkook began wheezing.

A startled Jimin looked towards the noise Jungkook made and rushed towards him.

“Gukk-ah?” Jimin said, rubbing circles in Jungkook’s back and gazing at him with concern.

Were Jimin’s legs always that long?

Were they always that smooth?

Jungkook blinked, still wheezing. He wanted to do things to those legs. Bad things.

Maybe he had a fetish for legs.

Correction.

He had a festish for Jimin’s legs in particular.

“What are you wearing?” Jungkook got out between coughs.

Jimin coloured and took a step back.

“Clothes.” Jimin said, running a hand through his hair. The action of lifting his shirt to show more skin.

Why was he attracted to Jimin’s tummy?

What the fuck?

Was he losing his mind? 

In all his years of goofing around he had never looked at anyone’s tummy and thought of doing things to it.

“You call those clothes?” Jungkook asked, straightening now and pointedly looking at the shorts Jimin was wearing. If it could even be called shorts.

“I wanted to be comfy.” Jimin shrugged, turning around and sauntering off.

Jungkook stared.

This was a trap, wasn’t it?

His dick twitched in agreement.

Fuck!

“You can’t possibly be comfortable in that.” Jungkook said, hesitating to follow Jimin.

Jimin turned around, face pensive.

“You know what?” Jimin began, cocking his hip, “It is a little uncomfortable.”

Jungkook nodded, relief flooding him. He was about to ask Jimin to change into something more… covered when Jimin spoke.

“The lace really feels alien to me.”

Jungkook’s jaw snapped shut. Lace? He swore his brain,  just powered down. He could hear the device shut down music playing in his head.

Lace? Jungkook scanned Jimin’s frame from top to bottom and then again from bottom to top. Where was the lace?

“Wondering where the lace is?” Jimin asked, voice sultry.

Jungkook gulped. He had known Jimin since he was 1. He had never heard that voice from Jimin.

Jungkook nodded, dumbly.

Jimin hooked a thumb into his shorts. Jungkook’s eyes followed the motion, unable to blink. Jimin pulled his thumb down, along with the shorts revealing a slip of lace pink…panties?

Jungkook was rock hard in his pants by now.

Yet, Jungkook wanted to flee. Who was this siren standing in front of him and what had it done with his sweet and shy Jimin?

“Gukkie?” Jimin’s sweet voice called.

“Hmm?” Jungkook answered, dazedly blinking at Jimin.

“Let’s begin the date?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook stared dumbly.

Date? What date?

“This is a trap.” Jungkook blurted out.

“Awww… my smart puppy.” Jimin cooed.

For a moment Jungkook wanted to go forward, knowing Jimin always pet his hair when he cooed. Then Jungkook shook his head.

Jimin for his part, paid no attention to Jungkook and simply disappeared into the fort, his voice calling out -

“Don’t be a coward now Jeon.”

Jungkook tensed. He should ask Jimin to change. He should tell Jimin he could not have the date with Jimin dressed like that.

But a part of him did not want Jimin to change. He wanted to feast his eyes on this side of Jimin. He secretly wanted to see how far Jimin would take it, to get Jungkook to break.

Squaring his shoulders in decision, Jungkook walked forward, climbing into the fort next to a smug looking Jimin.

Game on Park!

“You know.” Jimin began, “I actually wanted this date indoors to replicate the date that you had planned for us. Back when I was still dating Jin Hyung.”

Jungkook looked around, “I had not built a fort, but I must say this is way better.”

Jimin hummed, easily sliding into Jungkook’s arms and resting his head on Jungkook’s chest. Jungkook slipped his arms around Jimin, holding him tight.

“I am glad we are here.” Jungkook said, placing a kiss on Jimin’s crown. He remembered how miserable he had felt back then. How he had desperately craved to have Jimin, to hold and to love.

“Me too.” Jimin sighed. 

“I loved the cards.” Jungkook said, one hand caressing Jimin’s back. “I am going to ask to be buried with them.”

Jimin’s laugh was muffled against his chest, “Why?”

“So that I can remember what I am about to promise you right now.” Jungkook said, playing with Jimin’s hair.

Jimin looked up, still enveloped in Jungkook’s arms.

“What promise?” Jimin asked, wonder shining in his voice.

“A promise to find you in every lifetime and love you in every life that I take.” Jungkook said, placing a soft kiss on Jimin’s lips.

Jimin’s eyes had a sheen of tears when Jungkook pulled back. His arms tightened around Jungkook and then in a soft whisper he said, “I am terrified of losing you.

“I am too.” Jungkook confessed.

“You are?” Jimin pulled back, looking up to Jungkook. 

For the first time in his life Jungkook understood what authors meant when they wrote - ‘he looked at her with stars in his eyes.’

There was no other way to explain the way Jimin looked at him right now. His eyes twinkled in surprise, adoration and happiness.

“I am.” Jungkook nuzzled against Jimin’s nose, “Though I think my lifespan shortened by a decade when I saw what you were wearing.”

“It is for you.” Jimin said in a low whispered voice, like he was sharing a secret.

“Is it?”  Jungkook used the same conspiratorial tone, far too amused with his boyfriend.

Jimin nodded, giggling.

Jimin then further leaned in and continued the same tone while saying, “Iron man’s watching.”

Jungkook felt a laugh being pulled out of him. “What?”

Jimin nodded towards the projector screen which was playing an Iron man movie.

“Ahh.” Jungkook hummed.

Then Jimin was draping that sinful and plump leg of his over Jungkook’s own legs. His cock that had gone to half mast, happily stood at the moment. Jimin was half draped over Jungkook at this point and it was not helping.

“Jimin-ah.” Jungkook said, a warning in his tone, “What are you doing?”

“Watching a movie with my boyfriend.” Jimin said innocently. Too innocently.

Jungkook watched amused as Jimin’s face scrunched as he tried to hold in his laughter and then blurted out, “Taehyung has been rubbing off on me.”

Jungkook sat up straight, causing Jimin to tumble sideways.

Jimin scowled.

“Excuse me?” Jungkook asked, affronted.

“Not like that.” Jimin whacked the back of Jungkook’s head. “Seriously. I am trying to seduce you. Get on with the program Jeon.” Jimin said, exasperated.

“Seduce me? Baby if that is your plan, Taehyung’s name should not be popping up.” Jungkook said, petulant.

Jimin huffed and laid back down. Jungkook softened. He laid back next to Jimin, opening his arms in silent invitation.

When Jimin did not move, Jungkook poked at his side. Jimin resolutely continued watching the movie playing. 

“Jimin-ah.” Jungkook called again.

Nothing. No response.

“Baby.” Jungkook tried again.

Again. No response.

Jungkook all but man-handled Jimin where he needed him. To his surprise, Jimin did not put up a fight. 

“Sorry.” Jungkook whispered, caressing Jimin’s side. Jungkook could physically feel Jimin melt against him. Jimin then snuggled closer.

A few minutes passed before Jimin's leg creeped up to entangle with Jungkook’s.

Jungkook looked down at Jimin who did not acknowledge the move.

“You are playing a dangerous game.” Jungkook said.

Jimin said nothing, then sighed and got up. For a moment Jungkook panicked. Had he upset Jimin again? Then Jimin was swinging his legs and straddling Jungkook.

Jungkook gulped.

Before he could process things Jimin was kissing him. Hard. Jungkook moaned.

It wasn’t until Jimin started rocking that Jungkook realised how hard Jimin was.

“Been hard for hours now.” Jimin said, between wet kisses and moans.

“Fuck.” Jungkook breathed.

“Do something. Please.”

“Baby I promised.” Jungkook said, holding onto his resolve with the very last bit of his sanity.

Jimin leaned back to look at Jungkook, his eyes wet.

“I want you. Can’t take it anymore. Please.” Jimin said, rocking his hips against Jungkook’s own hard cock.

Jungkook was a weak weak man. That was all it took for his restraint to crumple. His brain happily asked him if Jimin looked so wrecked now, how much more ruined would he look once Jungkook was done with him?

Jungkook surged forward, kissing Jimin with everything he had. His Jimin. His boyfriend. His forever.

Jungkook looped his hand around Jimin’s waist, his palms splaying on Jimin’s soft and perky ass, squeezing it hard, like he had wanted to do all evening.

Jimin moaned, a high sound in his throat.

“You are mine.” Jungkook declared, nipping at Jimin’s throat.

“Yours.” Jimin promised, keening.

Yeah. Fuck the 5 dates. He had Jimin here and now and he was not wasting another minute. His own idiocy had led to them wasting years. Not another minute more.

Jungkook was going to make Jimin his, in every sense of the word.

By the time Jungkook woke up the next morning, the first rays of sunlight had started to filter through. He knew they had to get up soon if they wanted to make it to the uni in time but he was too comfortable.

He was currently in their bed, Jimin draped across him. Both of them were as naked as the day they had been born.

Jimin’s soft breaths were teasing his chest. Jungkook held back the urge to wrap his arms against Jimin or to kiss him, fearing Jimin would wake up.

Jungkook just wanted to enjoy this moment in solitude.

He was so in love, it felt like his body was not enough to hold all that love in. Weirdly, the giddy feeling of being in love had filled him with enough energy to want to lift a car on his own.

Last night had been…something. Jungkook could not get enough of Jimin. Jungkook was pretty sure, there was not a smidgen of skin on Jimin’s body that Jungkook had not licked last night.

Jungkook thought he knew what beauty is but then he had seen how Jimin looked when he peaked in pleasure. The image was burned behind his eyelids. He had never seen a sight more beautiful.

He had never heard a song more wrecking than the way Jimin moaned his name.

When they had laid exhausted in the aftermath, Jungkook had picked up Jimin and gently deposited him on the bed. He had then left for the living room, to switch off the candles, the projectors and get them a bottle of water.

He had walked back into Jimin sitting against the headboard in the middle of the bed. One leg sprawled out and the other bent, both spread open as he stroked himself. Jimin had taken one look at Jungkook and moaned his name adding please to it. Jungkook had stubbed his toe in his haste to get to Jimin but the pain didn’t even register to him. It was so worth it.

His brain was constantly chanting just one name - Jimin.

Jungkook had taken that name several times in his lifetime since he learned to talk but yet, now saying that name felt different. The feelings it evoked, felt different.

If Jungkook had to explain the feeling he would say it felt like having warm sunlight shine on your face after days of cold snow. Just warmth, beauty. The feeling was just…. Golden.

Yet, through all of his euphoria and giddiness at being hopelessly in love…. Jungkook couldn’t help but feel a little annoyed with himself.

Why had he taken so many years to pull his head out of his ass? 

He could have had this for years. They could have had this for years.

They could have been together and in love for years.

Only if his stupid self had not been so far up his own ass. He was going to make it up to Jimin. He would be the best boyfriend there is. Jimin deserved that and more. So much more.

Finally when Jungkook knew they couldn’t put off getting up any longer, he gently combed his fingers through Jimin’s hair, waking him up.

“Hey baby.” Jungkook called softly.

Jimin hummed, burrowing into Jungkook’s chest.

Jungkook melted internally. Fuck. He did not want to go out and share Jimin with the world. Not after what they did last night.

“Baby.” Jungkook called again and Jimin frowned in his sleep, peeking one eye open and glaring at Jungkook.

Jungkook bit back a laugh, “You have to get up now, unless you plan on ditching today.”

Jungkook was surprised when Jimin looked lost in thought like he was actually contemplating it.

“Ditching today.” Jimin declared, closing his eyes and snuggling back into Jungkook’s chest.

“You are?” Jungkook asked surprised.

“We both are.” Jimin said, decisively.

“Oh! Making decisions for me? I see how it is.” Jungkook teased, thrilled that he got to spend the day with Jimin.

Jimin looked up to Jungkook, propping his chin on Jungkook’s chest.

“Do you have any important lectures?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook shook his head.

“Anything that needs you to leave our bed?” Jimin asked.

“No.” Jungkook answered giddily.

“Good.” Jimin said, resting his head again on Jungkook’s chest, “I don’t feel like sharing you with anyone today.” Jimin said.

Jungkook’s heart skipped a beat. So he wasn’t the only one.

Feeling deliriously happy, Jungkook flipped them, pinning Jimin under him and kissing everywhere he could reach.

“Ugh!” Jimin groaned, “And that is why I call you a puppy.”

Jungkook woofed twice and Jimin’s eyes opened, round and incredulous.

“Did you just woof?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook nodded, still grinning big and then Jimin was laughing and pulling Jungkook down. Jungkook laughed too, simply because he was thrilled at Jimin laughing.

Back when they were friends they had shared many such lazy mornings. But today was different, they couldn’t keep their hands off each other.

Jimin was extra clingy today and he looked so soft and sweet that Jungkook did not mind. Truth to be told, Jungkook was having a hard time whenever Jimin stepped out of his reach. He needed Jimin close too.

Now that they had had sex, it was like a dam had burst open. Jungkook couldn’t stay away. Not that he tried very hard to do so.

Jimin was just as eager and pliant. Jungkook had learned last night that Jimin liked it when he got rough and manhandled Jimin. It delighted Jungkook who now took every opportunity he got to do just that.

Which is why they started cooking breakfast at 10 but ended up having breakfast at 12. They kept getting distracted and taking “breaks”.

Jimin’s phone had rung twice. It was Taehyung. Jungkook was surprised when he did not feel the usual annoyance he felt with the man. What surprised Jungkook even more was Jimin cutting the call and sending a text - ‘On leave today. Will talk later.’

Jimin was never one to keep people hanging. He was too polite for that. It was a testament to how much this time with Jungkook meant to him that he was willing to do so.

Late afternoon, they were still lounging in bed, caressing each other and reminiscing about their childhood. Telling each other of the times when they felt something more than just friendship for the other.

“Can I ask you something?” Jimin asked into a lul.

Jungkook hummed affirmatively.

Jimin looked nervous for a moment before he spoke, “You know how you said that back then you were terrified of having these feelings for me and you thought boys were not supposed to like boys?”

Jungkook nodded and combed his fingers through Jimin’s soft hair.

“When I came out. As gay. Did you never think of…telling me? Or asking me out?” Jimin asked, his eyes looked so innocent and vulnerable that Jungkook wanted to kick himself.

He was tempted to lie. So fucking tempted to lie but he knew Jimin deserved the truth. He couldn’t just tell a white lie and have that be something Jimin believed.

It pained Jungkook, to tell the truth. Because he had been stupid, so stupid.

 “I didn’t.” Jungkook said and he could see the light in Jimin’s eyes dimming.

“Why not?” Jimin asked, voice small like he was bracing himself.

Jungkook sighed, “I… Jimin-ah. When you first came out, I was in awe of you. I remember wondering what that meant for me since I like both boys and girls. I was a teenager and … I was too wrapped up in myself.”

Jimin nodded, understanding.

“I never really had to come out per se and by the time I started…. Uh… started up…” Jungkook cringed, “started up with the boys, you had moved to Seoul.”

“Started up?” Jimin asked, amusement shining in his eyes, “You mean started fucking?”

Jungkook whined, “You know what I mean.”

Jimin laughed, “I do.” He placed a soft placating kiss on Jungkook’s neck.

“Can I tell you something?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin raised one eyebrow, expectant.

“When you moved to Seoul and you remember you told me about this guy you were with for 3 months?” 

Jimin’s surprise reflected in his eyes, “Yeah? I am surprised you remember that.”

Jungkook snorted, “Yeah. I may have started uhh… started up with boys after that.” Jungkook nervously rubbed his nape, “Looking back, I should have known.”

Jimin tskd, “You never told me about it.”

Jungkook shrugged, “I never made the connection until…well…a few weeks ago when I realized every action I have taken in my life, every move, every decision had been linked to you.”

Jimin stared and then shook his head smiling, “How can you be aggravating one second and then say the sweetest words?”

Jungkook smiled, happy that Jimin was taking this in stride.

“I am still mad at myself.” Jungkook confessed, “For not realizing this sooner. We could have had so much time together.”

Jimin snuggled closer to Jungkook, “We are here now.”

“We are.” Jungkook had a permanent smile etched on his face.

“Speaking of.” Jungkook began, “Had I not kissed you, would you ever had told me?”

Jimin laughed in his chest, “I was fully prepared to live with a bleeding heart. I had accepted that I would be living half a life.”

Jungkook’s heart dropped, “That’s not nice.” He whispered.

Jimin shrugged, “You were happily going around getting laid. I thought you would always see me as a friend and that I would someday have to witness you falling in love with someone else. You have no idea how many times I have scornfully asked the universe if I was being punished for something I did in my past life and then wondering if any bad deed is worth this punishment."

Jungkook stilled, “So you would have lived in pain than ever confess?”

Jimin nodded.

“Jimin?” Jungkook called.

“Yeah?” Jimin answered.

“You asked me if I never thought of asking you out or telling you. I never knew you were in love with me. I was as much in the dark as you. Why not hold yourself to the same standard?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin raised his head to look at Jungkook and he felt bad. He was almost about to backpedal out of his words when Jimin spoke -

“That is fair. I guess… I guess I never thought about it from the other end of the equation you know.”

Jungkook relaxed slightly.

“I guess we both deserve the benefit of the doubt.” Jimin smiled up at Jungkook.

Jungkook wondered which star had decided to bless him with the best partner ever.

Jungkook pecked Jimin on a whim, elicting a small giggle from the man.

“Though.” Jimin began mischievously, “You sure did have your fun. Is there any flavour in men and women you haven’t tried?”

Jungkook’s smile froze but he powered through, reminding himself of the conversation they had when Jimin had assured Jungkook he was simply teasing. Nothing more.

“None compares to you.” Jungkook said, smiling, though his chest felt tight

“Oh please spare me.” Jimin rolled his eyes dramatically.

“Spare you?” Jungkook asked.

“Yeah. The theatrics. You don’t have to say those things just we are together now Jungkook-ah.” Jimin said, voice soft.

“But it is the truth.” Jungkook insisted.

Jimin rolled his eyes again, “It is okay that you had other partners.”

“I know it is okay.” Jungkook said, trying to reassure Jimin. He knew Jimin didn’t have a problem with it, Jimin was just teasing. Right?

Jimin stared at Jungkook a moment before pulling away. Had he said something wrong?

“Jimin?” Jungkook asked when Jimin rolled over and stood.

“Yeah?” Jimin asked.

“Where are you going?” Jungkook asked, now kneeling on the bed, ready to follow Jimin. He did not want to lose their little happy bubble.

“Relax you big baby. I just need to pee.” Jimin said, smiling and walking off to the bathroom.

Jungkook had known Jimin since before Jimin was more cheeks than features. He knew each of Jimin’s expressions and the one Jimin was wearing right now was that of him downplaying the moment.

Jungkook had evidently said something wrong.

When Jimin came back and snuggled back into Jungkook, it felt different. Like the previous warmth and happiness was dulled now in their bubble.

“Jimin?” Jungkook began, “Don’t take this wrong but are you… does… does my past make you feel insecure about us?”

Jimin blinked at Jungkook and sighed, “Sometimes you have no tact.”

Jungkook gave half a smile. Unsure if this was something good or bad.

“A little.” Jimin admitted, “I hate that you have experienced this with so many people. I don’t even want to know your body count. I don’t think I can take it. Someday in the future perhaps, when I am much more secure in our relationship.”

Jungkook felt his heart break. If he could undo it all. He would. In a heartbeat.

Jungkook cupped Jimin’s face in his hands.

“Jimin-ah, they meant nothing to me. I can’t even remember half their names.” Jungkook said.

“Great going Gukk. It makes me feel really special here knowing they had you like this and didn’t even have to do anything to get your attention.” Jimin said through squished cheeks.

“Jimin.” Jungkook powered through, “What I mean is, they don’t matter. None of it does because you are the first and only person I have fallen in love with. The only person I want to be in love with. The only person I want in my bed, in my arms, in my heart. You are my last, my forever.” Jungkook’s voice broke by the end of it.

Jimin’s eyes watered, tears tracking down his cheeks. Jungkook gently swiped at them.

“It's only you Jimin-ah. It has always been you and will always be you.” Jungkook whispered, pressing a kiss to Jimin’s forehead.

Jimin kissed Jungkook then, frenzied in his act to get closer to Jungkook.

The more they touched each other, the more they worshiped each other’s body, the more the warmth and happiness returned to their bubble.

Jungkook swore to himself he would spend every day of his life loving Jimin, pleasuring Jimin, telling him how much he meant to Jungkook.

By the time they were done, the sun sat low on the horizon.

Somehow, Jungkook felt lighter, knowing Jimin had shared a vulnerable part of him with Jungkook.

Jungkook held the sleeping man in his arms a little tighter.

“I love you.” He whispered into Jimin’s hair, letting sleep take him.

Jimin walked with Jungkook into their campus the next day. By now it was very normal for them to be seen holding hands and walking around.

No one paid them any mind anymore. Jimin couldn’t be more thrilled.

Though their pace of walking was much slower today. Jimin was concentrating on taking small and precise steps. He was so fucking sore.

Besides him, Jungkook looked a little too smug and extremely proud of himself.

Jimin scowled at him, “This is your fault.”

Jungkook laughed, “Hey, if I remember correctly you wore the slutty little outfit to tempt me.”

“Whatever happened to your restraint?” Jimin grumbled.

“Flew outta the window.” Jungkook replied, looking none too bothered.

“You are not going to touch me for a week now.” Jimin declared.

“Yeah.” Jungkook snorted, “that is not going to happen. Get used to being sore.”

Jimin blushed.

“Gukk.” Jimin whisper-yelled, looking around to ensure that one heard that.

Jungkook sniggered.

Jimin looked at the time. Jungkook was going to be late if he kept the same pace as Jimin.

“Go Go. You are going to be late.” Jimin insisted.

“Nahh, it’s alright.” Jungkook shrugged easily.

“Gukkie. I made you ditch yesterday. Please don’t add to my guilt. Go. Please.” Jimin said, desperate.

“Are you sure?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin nodded and smiled reassuringly. Jungkook stared for a moment more and then kissed Jimin’s forehead muttering ‘I'll see you at lunch, baby.’. He then jogged away leaving Jimin behind.

Jimin made his way to his lab and was surprised to see both Hoseok and Taehyung sitting outside the closed door of his lab.

“Hi?” Jimin called.

Taehyung pouted, “You took away my quiet place and I didn’t get any work done yesterday.”

“I need a place to sulk.” Hoseok said, his shoulders drooping.

“I was gone one day. What happened?” Jimin asked, unlocking the door.

Taehyung all but shoved his face in Jimin’s neck.

“Are you wearing makeup?” Taehyung asked, eyes narrowed.

“Uhh….umm…” Jimin blushed. Dammit. Jungkook and his teeth had left too many marks on Jimin in the past two days.

“You got some didn’t you?” Taehyung smirked.

Jimin’s face was flaming.

“Be gone you demon.” Jimin batted Taehyung away who squealed in delight.

“How was it?” Taehyung asked, bouncing around Jimin.

“Adequate.” Jimin cleared his throat.

Taehyung stopped. Even Hoseok looked up from where he was curled up into a ball.

“Okay. Alright. It was amazing and I am sore. So very sore.” Jimin groaned.

Taehyung whooped so loudly it had Jimin’s ears ringing.

Hoseok just made a noise and went back to his fetal position.

“Okay, what is up with him?” Jimin asked Taehyung, pointing to Hoseok.

“My brother is a Grade A asshole.” Taehyung scowled.

Jimin’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. For all the bickering that Taehyung and Yoongi did, they loved each other fiercely. It was evident in each of their actions towards the other. For Taehyung to say this, something big must have happened.

Hoseok made another noise like a wounded animal and it alarmed Jimin.

“Seriously! What is going on?” Jimin asked.

“I invited Hobi Hyung over to our place yesterday. You know how Yoongi Hyung basically is never home? Well he was home yesterday. I did not know. Hobi Hyung did not know.” Taehyung began, he crossed his arms annoyed, “We did not even know he was sleeping in his room. Hobi Hyung was showing me this choreography he came up with and I was trying to do it and it disturbed Yoongi Hyung’s sleep.”

Jimin’s eyes widened. He was well aware of how much Yoongi liked his sleep.

“He came out spitting fire and saw Hobi Hyung and screamed that he was taking the stalking business too far.” Taehyung said, sadly looking at Hoseok, “I told Hyung that I invited Hobi Hyung and he even raised his voice at me.”

Taehyung’s voice wobbled.

“He then told Hobi Hyung to….” Taehyung cringed, “To not be so desperate and go fuck himself. Hobi Hyung, I am so sorry.” Taehyung said, looking to the floor in guilt.

Jimin blinked.

“Oh I am going to kill Min Yoongi.” Jimin said, seething.

“Sit your sore ass back down.” Hoseok mumbled.

It had a fresh blush rising on Jimin’s cheek.

“Hyungggg….” Jimin whined.

“I just need a day to sulk and then I will be back to normal.” Hoseok said.

Taehyung sat beside Hobi Hyung, petting at his hip in a soothing motion.

“Jimin-ah.” Hoseok called.

“Yes Hyung?” Jimin replied.

“Tell us all about you and Jungkook. I need the distraction." Hoseok said, sitting upright now.

“Well. Okay.” Jimin began, “Let’s just say I would have to buy new lace. That was definitely a hit.”

“What happened to the pink one?” Taehyung and Hoseok both asked in unison, leaning forward in excitement.

“Well, he… was so frantic and rough that he… he tore them trying to get to me.” Jimin said, biting his lip.

Taehyung and Hoseok stared at Jimin slack jawed and then screamed so loudly, they received noise complaints.

The more the story progressed, the worse the squealing got.

By the end of the day Jimin had received an official warning in writing.

That night while having dinner with Jungkook, Jimin had an idea which he put forth.

“Gukkie.” Jimin called.

Jungkook hummed, too consumed with his food.

“I actually have something to tell you.” Jimin said.

That got Jungkook’s attention, “Yeah? What about?” He asked.

“Uhh… Well… You like Yoongi Hyung right?” Jimin began.

Jungkook’s eyes narrowed, “Yes?”

“You definitely like Jin Hyung and even Namjoon for that matter.” Jimin continued.

“Yes?” Jungkook said, confused eyes meeting him.

“Hobi Hyung is good too. Right?” Jimin asked.

“Jimin, where is this going?” Jungkook asked with furrowed brows.

“I kindda… sorta… invited everyone over for dinner tomorrow since it is Friday. We all are friends via someone and I just thought it would be a good idea.” Jimin began, nervously looking at Jungkook.

Jimin knew he should have asked Jungkook before inviting people over, especially since they both would have to host, but he had been too excited and had decided on a whim. Add to that Hoseok’s sulky mood was tugging at Jimin’s heart strings.

As much as Jimin did not want to invite Yoongi, he knew it would hurt Taehyung if they left him out. Not to mention Yoongi was Seokjin’s friend too.

Jimin could physically see Jungkook’s shoulder drooping and relaxing, “That’s it?”

Jimin nodded.

“That’s okay baby. I would love to have everyone over.” Jungkook said, smiling and then going back to his food.

“Thank you.” Jimin beamed, “Uhh… Taehyung would be coming too.”

Jungkook nodded, “I figured." He said, around a mouthful of food.

“Are you okay with that?” Jimin asked.

“Ofcourse.” Jungkook said, swallowing, “He is not that bad.”

Jimin stared, “Okay, who are you and what have you done with my boyfriend.”

“I may not be his biggest fan but he is important to you and so by extension, to me too.” Jungkook said, shrugging like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Jimin continued staring as Jungkook gathered their dishes and walked to the kitchen sink.

This was not the first time that Jungkook had done something solely for Jimin despite not liking it but this time, it was different. Bringing love into the equation made everything different.

Jimin bounded up and all but jumped on Jungkook’s bag earning an “Oomph.” from Jungkook.

Despite that, Jungkook instinctually held Jimin’s thighs to better support him.

“Best. Boyfriend. Ever.” Jimin got out between kisses to Jungkook’s cheeks.

Jungkook laughed, “Now who is the puppy?”

“Still you.” Jimin shot back, lifting one hand to ruffle his head.

Jimin climbed down from his back and Jungkook swiftly turned taking Jimin into his arms.

“Can we invite Mingyu and the guys too?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook’s eyes softened. “One, our house is not big enough to host so many people. Two. Mingyu works in the evenings, remember?”

“Ohh.” Jimin deflated.

Jungkook kissed his forehead, “He has the third fridays of each month off. Maybe we can plan something around it next time.”

“Done.” Jimin beamed up at Jungkook.

Jimin must have done something really good in his past life to land Jungkook in this lifetime.

The next day, Jimin was practically skipping around in glee.

Jungkook being the sweetheart that he is, had decided to cook for everyone.

What Jimin had not expected was for Seokjin and Yoongi to join Jungkook in the kitchen like it was the most natural thing in the world.

They moved around each other with such ease, it felt like they had been doing this for years.

Jungkook fit right in with those two.

Jimin, Taehyung, Hoseok and Namjoon were in the living room playing and being rambunctious.

Seokjin had all but declared that Namjoon was banned entry from the kitchen unless they wanted to all be killed in a house fire.

Jimin was floating. He was so happy.

They all fit together like puzzle pieces. The atmosphere was a little tense because Hoseok resolutely refused to look at Yoongi. Even Taehyung was giving him the cold shoulder.

What surprised Jimin was Yoongi himself who was stealing glances at Hoseok looking like a sad little kitten. He had even attempted to talk to Taehyung in a civil manner only for Taehyung to brush him off.

Still the evening was not as bad or as tense as Jimin had thought it would be.

Conversation and food flowed around freely. It was after dinner that they were sitting there lounging around when Hoseok spoke - 

“Kindda feels like I have found my tribe.” He smiled lazily.

Jimin nodded, “Me too.”

“Me three.” Taehyung piped up.

They looked at the others expectantly.

“Me four.” Jin Hyung chirped, still having ice-cream.

“Me five?” Namjoon said awkwardly and then cleared his throat.

There was a beat and then everyone cooed. They looked at Yoongi and Jungkook.

“Does he have to be in the tribe?” Jungkook asked, pointing at Taehyung.

“Ofcourse. A soulmate pair has to be together.” Taehyung said, looping his arms around Jimin’s waist and pulling him into himself.

Jungkook rolled his eyes and smiled, “Me six.” He said.

Taehyung blinked. “That’s it?”

Jungkook shrugged.

Jimin was confused. He had the same question as Taehyung. That's it? Jungkook was not going to say anything? Was not going to react to the soulmate quip? Was not going to comment on Jimin practically sitting on Taehyung’s lap?

There was not even a hint of jealousy on Jungkook’s face. He was completely relaxed.

“You broke him when you had sex with him.” Taehyung poked at Jimin’s side causing Jimin to blush bright red. The othered sniggered.

Jungkook winked cheekily at Jimin “Yeah. Me six.” Jungkook said, looking at Yoongi.

“Yeah. Yeah. Me seven.” Yoongi grumbled but there was a hint of a smile on his face. 

“We can do without him right?” Taehyung asked, looking around.

“If he is out, I am out.” Jungkook said, surprising Yoongi.

Taehyung’s jaw dropped, “What?”

Jungkook shrugged, “I like Yoongi Hyung.”

Yoongi turned to Jungkook, appraising him and then said, “You are a good kid.”

Taehyung grumbled something and Jimin turned to him.

“What?” Jimin whispered.

“That in Hyung’s language means he is basically adopting your boyfriend.” Taehyung whispered back, “He stole my brother.”

Jimin felt laughter bubble up his throat.

“He did not steal your brother.” Jimin whispered back.

“Look at them.” Taehyung scowled and Jimin turned, surprised to see Yoongi and Jungkook engaged in their own conversation. The way Yoongi leaned forward in his seat was the most animated Jimin had ever seen him.

“Are you jealous?" Jimin asked, unable to hold off his giggle.

“He stole my brother.” Taehyung harahumped. “You know how impossible of a task that is? All my life I have had exclusive rights to my brother. He had no interest in making friends and drove people away. People were too intimidated by him. Now your boyfriend just swoops in?” Taehyung was whispering dramatically, eyes wide.

Oh how the tables had turned. Jimin laughed out loud causing conversation around them to cease.

Everyone looked at them and Taehyung pounced on the opportunity.

“Too bad Jungkook cannot make you laugh like this huh Jiminie.” Taehyung said, bouncing Jimin on his lap.

Jimin looked at Jungkook who was shaking his head and smiling and then blew a kiss to Jimin.

“Nothing?” Hoseok said, “That’s new.”

Taehyung scowled.

“Leave the poor kid alone.” Namjoon said, playing with Jin’s fingers.

“Yeah, he is a good kid.” Jin Hyung said, glancing at Jungkook.

“What is happening?” Taehyung said, eyes getting even wider, “How is he doing this? Jimin. Tell me the truth. Does Jungkook know magic? Oh my God, he had put some love potion in our food and only I am resistant to it, isn’t it?” Taheyung asked, looking around.

“Try being a little more dramatic. The situation asks for it.” Yoongi said, dryly.

Jungkook sniggered and Yoongi smiled at him. A full blown gummy smile.

“What is happening?" Taehyung said, decidedly more on the edge now. He almost sounded hysterical.

“Oh wow. Yoongi Hyung has a unique smile.” Namjoon said.

“Tell me about it. He does it so rarely, it is a treat to watch.” Seokjin said.

“Really?” Jungkook asked, confused. “I see it all the time.”

“All the time?” Jimin asked.

Jungkook nodded, “Whenever I am with him in his studio.”

“You are allowed in his studio?” Taehyung all but screeched.

Jimin winced, cupping his ears and scowling at Taehyung.

“Yah!” Seokjin sat straight, “I have known you for two years and even I am not allowed.”

Yoongi shrugged, “He just showed up one day and did not leave.”

“I was going to get the password for Hoseok hyung and when I entered the studio I liked it so I just sat there doing my work. He showed up. Saw me. Shrugged and went about his work. We have been hanging out since then.” Jungkook said.

“He is making me new software.” Yoongi all but bounced.

Everyone stared. Yoongi bouncing was not something they ever thought they would see.

“He told me I can ask for any specifications and he can design it as per that. There are some kinks we are ironing out but I finally know what to do with the award money I won last year.” Yoongi continued, eyes sparkling. His gummy smile on display again.

“Wait.” Jimin frowned, “When do you two spend time in the studio?”

“Baby, you leave campus at 6. My lectures are done long before that. What do you think I do?” Jungkook laughed.

“I thought you sat in the library and worked. Or hang out with people.” Jimin said, wondering if he was a bad boyfriend for never having asked Jungkook about that.

“I do hang out. With grumpy hyung here.” Jungkook said, his thumb pointing to Yoongi.

“Why am I never invited?” Jin Hyung asked, offended.

“Have you heard how loud you are?” Yoongi asked, making Seokjin go on a long rant. He was speaking so fast, Jimin failed to understand half of what he was saying.

Jungkook and Yoongi sniggered and then high-fived each other. Jimin stared. Had he stepped into some alternate universe?

Jimin felt something wet on his shoulder and turned to find Taehyung crying.

Alarmed Jimin gasped, “Tae, What?”

“He stole my brother, he really did.” Watery eyes met Jimin, making him feel faint.

“Oh please.” Yoongi rolled his eyes, “He mastered fake tears when he was 8 years old. Got me in so much trouble.” He grumbled.

“These are real.” Taehyung said, defensively. His voice gave him away and Jimin relaxed, a little in awe.

“You can cry on command?” Hoseok asked, impressed.

“I can.” Taehyung boasted and then his eyes sparkled, “Hobi Hyung. That’s right, you are Hobi Hyung.”

Promptly Jimin was dumped unceremoniously from Taehyung’s lap. Taehyung then crawled to Hoseok and climbed into his lap.

“Hello there.” Hoseok said, amused.

“Heyy.” Jimin shouted, offended.

Taehyung said, “Look Jiminie. Hobi Hyung.” He then discreetly glanced at his brother.

“That's his MO.” Jungkook told Yoongi.

“Oh I am aware.” Yoongi said, disinterested.

Taehyung scowled when he got no reaction from Yoongi.

Jimin folded his hands and harahumped, going to sit on the floor between Jungkook’s feet.

“Is this going to be our life now?” Namjoon asked Seokjin.

“It’s like we have kids.” Seokjin said back.

Namjoon grinned, “I could do kids with you.”

Seokjin’s eyes widened. He looked contemplative for a moment and then he shrugged, “Not a bad idea.” He said as he leaned against Namjoon.

Jimin smiled. He loved his tribe.

If someone had told Jimin a few months back that he would be living a fairytale life he wouldn’t have believed it. He had been in love with Jungkook for so long, convinced that it would never be reciprocated that he had just accepted that a part of him would always mourn what could have been. 

Yet, here he was, having Jungkook return his love ten fold. The past 5 months since they got together had been a dream come true.

They had settled into a routine of sorts. Waking up together, having breakfast. Then going to the uni together. Having Jungkook drop him off. Having lunch together with whichever of their friends were available. Coming back home together. Working on their respective things in comfortable peace, having movie nights, cooking together and ending up in bed together.

Jimin had never been happier. Their parents were ecstatic when they had broken the news of them being together. Apparently they always were rooting for the two.

Jimin’s mother had claimed she knew it since Jimin started kindergarten and little Jungkook would waddle over as soon as he saw her, waiting with her for Jimin’s bus to arrive. Jimin did not remember this but his mom said that Jungkook would cling to him and eat from his plate and then play with Jimin until it was his nap time.

Their friends had gotten closer together. They continued having night-ins every Friday at Jungkook and Jimin’s place. It had come to a point where they came straight to their house from uni. Taehyung sometimes slept over, too tired to go back home. Jimin’s old bed comes in handy whenever someone gets too drunk or tired.

Jungkook had grown to ignore Taehyung’s antics, which frustrated Taehyung to no end. He swore Yoongi was coaching Jungkook on it.

Jimin had to agree. Jungkook knew just which buttons to push.

Once Taehyung had quipped that he would be moving here with them and taking up Jimin’s room permanently.

Jungkook had just shrugged and said ‘Sure.’ Taehyung had grumbled the entire evening. To add salt to the wound, a week later Jungkook asked Taehyung if he needed help packing and moving. Jimin had never seen Taehyung’s mood so sour. He had whined at Jungkook to go back to being a pissy alpha male. Everyone had had a field day teasing Taehyung that day.

In a turn of events, Hoseok had taken to completely ignoring Yoongi after their little encounter in Taehyung and Yoongi’s house. Hoseok just spoke when spoken to and replied only what was necessary. Yoongi had lasted two weeks after which he had taken to following around Hoseok.

Hoseok being a big softie had been secretly thrilled but he sure did make Yoongi work for it. It had been for the best. Jimin could safely say there was only one man who had Yoongi in the palm of their hand like a putty and that was Hoseok.

Seokjin had taken to calling them his children, so in turn they called Namjoon ‘Appa.’ That usually led to Seokjin screeching about how he was raising them and he deserved the title.

Mingyu usually joined them every Friday and every other weekend whenever he could find the time. It took a little while for him to warm up to everyone but he was now right there with them. Though Jungkook still seemed to be his favourite out of the bunch.

It had been 5 months and several dates. Some small fights here and there which usually led to one of the two coming to the other with their tail tucked between their legs. Usually it was Jungkook. It seemed that Jungkook had rapidly become dependent on Jimin being his. Jimin swore, he couldn’t get a minute alone when Jungkook was around.

Jimin had banned Jungkook from his lab when he had fallen behind on his thesis given that whenever they were alone in his lab, they always got distracted and ended up pulling at each other’s clothes.

Most of their fights however was whenever someone mentioned Jungkook’s past, which happened a lot considering they went to the same uni which Jungkook’s friends had dubbed his playground. It irked Jimin, knowing he was around people who had been intimate with Jungkook.

He had chalked it up to jealousy at first but it had been so much more. It simply makes Jimin want to stomp his foot and scream.

A few weeks back Jungkook had his exams and while Jimin had a day off he spent it in the library chasing citations for their research paper. It had been then when an offhand comment had made Jimin spitting mad.

He was happily immersed in books, going over the contents when a girl across from him kept staring at him. When Jimin had looked up he realised she was not staring at him but rather at his neck where Jungkook had left a dark enough mark that no concealer could cover.

“Why do you keep giving him a chance?” she had snapped.

Jimin had been so confused, “What?”

“Jungkook.” She spat, “Once a cheater always a cheater Jimin. How long before he is in someone elses bed?”

“Jungkook and I were not together back then.” Jimin had snapped back, feeling defensive on behalf of Jungkook,

“Sure.” She snorted. “And you'll must not be together right now because he keeps flirting with me.”

Jimin had felt his blood go cold. It was everything he was always insecure about. The girl had left but Jimin had remained there, staring into space and wondering if what she had said was true.

He knew Jungkook was no cheater. He knew Jungkook would never do that to him. However, the consistent insecure voice in Jimin’s head wouldn’t let up. So when Jungkook had found him in the library it was to Jimin confronting him.

Jungkook had sworn up and down that he was not flirting with anyone. He had asked to be taken to the girl who had claimed as such but Jimin had not known her, he had not known her name.

They had fought over it. Badly. Jungkook had lashed out asking Jimin to trust him and Jimin had lashed back with Jungkook sleeping around even before they got together. 

Jungkook had once again asked if Jimin had a problem with his past and Jimin had staunchly denied it. 

It happened a lot. Jungkook asked Jimin about this whenever they fought over it. Jimin always denied it because what was the point in accepting that? What could be done? Nothing.

So Jimin had put it in the back of his mind and refused to acknowledge it or speak about it to anyone. 

It had been 5 months now and Jimin was over the moon. He was not going to let some silly insecurity about something that did not even matter, take away his happiness.

Today, they were getting ready for the fresher’s party.

Normally, Jimin avoided those but all his friends were going. Taehyung and Hoseok had made a compelling case that they wouldn’t get another change like this once the uni year starts and it would start getting hectic for all of them.

So there Jimin was, styling his now blond hair while Jungkook sat patiently and watched him with big eyes.

“You are staring.” Jimin commented.

“So?” Jungkook asked, nonchalant.

Jimin huffed a laugh. “How is it that you still like watching me get ready?”

Jungkook shrugged, “I always liked watching you get ready. Even back when you were going on dates with Namjoon and Seokjin.”

“You set me up on those dates.” Jimin shot back.

“Stupidest thing I have ever done.” Jungkook groaned.

“Well, we got our friends out of it. So….” Jimin trailed off.

Jungkook got up, hooking his hands around Jimin’s waist from behind and looked in the mirror at him.

“What would I have done if you fell for one of them?” Jungkook asked, looking genuinely miffed.

“Well.” Jimin began, “Lucky for you I was very much in love with you to even be a good date to them.”

Jungkook hummed, “Yeah. Lucky me. I think I would have lost it if you would have announced your relationship with someone.” 

Jungkook cringed then bodily shuddered, amusing Jimin.

“Yeah. It would have gotten very ugly very fast.” Jungkook said, nodding sagely.

“What would you have done?” Jimin asked, intrigued.

“Fought with you? Because my dumbass didn’t realise my own feelings.” Jungkook nodded thoughtfully “Maybe I would end up pulling you to me and banging my chest like a caveman.” Jungkook laughed.

“You still do that.” Jimin giggled, “I think you scared the poor cafe worker yesterday so hard that his testicles reascended."

“He deserved it.” Jungkook scowled.

“All he did was give me his number.” Jimin said, enjoying the possessiveness in Jungkook’s eyes and his voice.

 “He was eye fucking you.” Jungkook argued.

“Many people do that.” Jimin said and the reaction was instant. Jungkook stiffened.

A beat later he whined, “Jimin. No.”

Jimin giggled and Jungkook huffed, though there was a smile in his voice when he said, “Don’t get me all worked up when we have to leave or else you are going to have a very clingy and frowny boyfriend attached to you all evening.”

“Wouldn’t want that.” Jimin said, wiggling to get free.

That just made Jungkook hold him tighter, ever the competitive spirit.

They ended up getting late.

When they did reach the venue, it was jam packed. Their friends had texted saying they were out back on the lawn.

Sure enough, their little group was happily sitting on the grass, talking and laughing.

“Jiminie.” Taehyung sing-songed on spotting Jimin.

Taehyung ran towards them. However, instead of hugging Jimin like he usually did, Taehyung head straight to Jungkook and pulled on his cheeks, “Gukkkiieeeee”

Everyone laughed. A red-faced Hoseok lifted his head from Yoongi’s shoulder, looked around and went back down to rest.

“Okay? What is happening?” Jimin asked when Taehyung all but jumped on Jungkook, forcing Jungkook to carry him back to their little group.

“Hobi here.” Namjoon smiled as he said, “Was stressed about one of his workshops going live this weekend. His first foray into the online world and Taehyung decided to give him company.”

“I don’t know what he is worried about. He is great.” Yoongi said, looking sideways at Hoseok but not reaching out.

Jimin had learned Yoongi’s cues by now. The fact that he let Hoseok rest his head on his shoulder was a big deal. That in Yoongi speak meant he was cuddling Hosoek right now.

“Gukkie is so strong.” Taehyung said in wonder from somewhere behind and Jimin saw Jungkook still holding Taehyung.

“Who’s problem is this one?” Jungkook asked, gesturing to Taehyung.

“Bring him here.” Seokjin said.

“No.” Taehyung clung harder to Jungkook

“This is so weird.” Jungkook grumbled, forced to sit down with Taehyung who was now happily cudd;ing with his boyfriend.

Jimin scowled. He was supposed to cuddle with his boyfriend. Is this how Jungkook felt each time Jimin and Taehyung played with him?

Jimin plopped down, annoyed at his soulmate hogging his boyfriend.

His boyfriend who was now making Taehyung drink water.

Jimin’s scowl deepened.

“Loosen up.” Namjoon said from beside him.

“My boyfriend.” Jimin huffed, very petulantly back at Namjoon.

Jungkook must have heard him because he was sniggering and then Taehyung's hands were reaching to Jungkook's chest to balance himself against Jungkook’s shaking frame and then he gasped.

“Holy tiddies.” Taehyung grabbed at them, making to squeeze them.

Jungkook squawked, scooting back only for Taehyung to follow.

Jimin instantly batted Taehyung’s hand away and pushed Taehyung aside.

“Hands off.” Jimin said, annoyed.

Taehyung, poor soul, looked down ashamed and said, “Sorry Jiminie.” he then hiccuped and looked around lost.

Jimin felt bad, reaching forward and gathering Taehyung into his arms who went willingly.

Yoongi groaned.

“Someone gets more alcohol in him or he is going to go from playful and buzzing with energy to mopey and crying.”

Taehyung perked up. “Drink?” He asked.

Jimin pulled Taehyung with him to the hall behind them, wanting to get wasted too. The rest followed, having similar ideas.

A few hours later the crowd had dwindled and they were too happily drunk to care. Jimin was flushed and sweaty from dancing.

He looked around, spotting Seokjin and Namjoon and made his way to them. Taehyung followed him.

“You better take me home right now and make good on that promise.” Seokjin said to Namjoon.

“Oops” Jimin giggled.

“I love you guys but not now.” Namjoon said.

Taehyung clung to one of Namjoon’s arms, “Appa.” he whined.

Jimin followed suit, whining similarly.

Seokjin’s eyes rounded. Jimin knew the rant that was incoming.

Jimin tilted his head to look at Taehyung. They grinned mischeviously and raised on tippy-toes to kiss Namjoon’s cheek on either side.

Namjoon wiggled shuddering and Seokjin screamed “Yahh!”

Jimin and Taehyung squealed, giggling and running away as Seokjin screamed profanities at them in the background.

It did not take them long to find Jungkook. Yoongi had already taken a sleepy Hoseok home. Now only the three of them remained.

Taehyung was guzzling down more alcohol. Jimin figured he could come home with them and take the spare bed.

Jungkook was lounging on a couch with a beer in his hand. Few people surrounded him as they chatted animatedly. 

“Gukkie.” Jimin sighed, sliding besides Jungkook.

Instantly Jungkook’s spare arm wrapped around him. A soft kiss was placed on his hair.

“Doing good?” Jungkook asked, in a low voice and Jimin nodded.

“Want to go home?” Jungkook asked again.

Jimin shrugged. He was okay to go if Jungkook wanted. He was okay to wait around if Jungkook wanted.

“Let’s get you home.” Jungkook said, squeezing Jimin against himself.

Taehyung came bounding up to them.

“There you are.” he said, reaching them, “Come on. We have to play Never Have I ever.” Taehyung swayed where he stood.

“You have had enough.” Jungkook said pointedly.

“Come onnnn.” Taehyung whined, looking at Jimin and Jungkook with puppy dog eyes.

Now that Jimin had heard it, he wanted to play too.

Jimin looked up at Jungkook bringing out his own puppy dog eyes.

Jungkook’s gaze swung between Jimin and Taehyung and then he sighed muttering, “How am I the adult here?”

That is how they found themselves sitting in a circle with shots in front of them.

Jungkook had agreed to stay on the condition that 5 shots later they leave. Regardless of who out of the 3 reached the 5 shots limit, they had to leave after that.

Jimin thought it would start simple but it started raunchy.

“Never have I ever sat in a class with a toy in me.” A girl cried out.

Jimin giggled looking around. A few people had a shot. The 3 of them however remained as is.

Jimin cheered as people drank. Taehyung hollering right beside him.

Jimin was tipsy for sure. But Taehyung was properly drunk. Jimin wondered if he would remember any of this the next morning.

“Never have I ever.” Another girl began looking mischievous, “done it with an animal.”

Jimin wrinkled his nose in distaste. A boy drank a shot and the others watched him in surprise.

“My ex was a gay bear. He counts as an animal.” the boy said.

Instantly everyone booed him. He simply shrugged and continued.

“Never have I ever.” The boy began, “been pegged by a girl.”

Jimin knew this and he turned towards taehyung in a flash who was lifting up his drink and downing it in one go. 

Jimin cheered. The shock on Jungkook’s face was comical. Jimi giggled, holding Jungkook’s face, feeling endeared.

“Never have I ever.” Taehyung began, “Had a threesome.”

Cheers went out all around him and Jimin’s smile fell, the haze of alcohol lifting a little.

Jungkook was downing his shot, smiling and looking around. Jimin quickly schooled his features and cheered with the others. He did not want Jungkook to see him like this and rehash the same conversation. He did not have a problem with Jungkook’s past. He DID NOT.

“Never have I ever.” Another girl began, “done it in a movie theatre.”

Groans went around and a few people took their shots.

To Jimin’s surprise both Taehyung and Jungkook downed a shot.

Jimin’s buzz was leaving as he quickly realized this game was not conducive to him. His sexual experience was limited to his ex and now the 5 months that he had been with Jungkook.

“Never have I ever.” A voice piped up. Jimin did not bother with who was speaking, “done it in a car.”

A chorus of “Ofcourse” went around.

Jimin felt smaller with each passing second. A small relief was running through him thinking there is no possible way Jungkook would drink to this. He doesn’t have a car.

“Does my bike count?” Jungkook piped up and Jimin felt his stomach drop.

No. No. No. No.

“Hell yeah.” someone affirmed and Jungkook was downing another shot.

Jimin’s insides twisted. It was getting harder and harder for him to maintain his cool and nonchalant facade.

“Never have I ever.” Jungkook began and Jimin stilled. He would say something that they did right? Any hopes Jimin had were dashed when Jungkook continued, “hooked up with someone without knowing their name.”

Boisterous laughter went around and Jungkook downed his drink. Fourth one for the evening. Even Taehyung was downing his drink.

Jimin wanted to take a drink too. To stop feeling like everyone’s eyes were on him and judging him for not drinking. But he couldn’t lie. Jungkook and Taehyung would know in an instant.

He did not want to see pity in their eyes.

What was he even doing in this circle? He did not belong here.

“Never have I ever.” Another voice piped up, “Had to fake an orgasm.”

Most of the girls drank and laughed as the boys booed. Jungkook was grinning but he hadn’t touched his shot.

“Never have I ever.” A boy shouted, “role played with my partner.”

Jimin stilled as he watched Jungkook down his fifth shot. It was definitely not Jimin who he had role-played with. They had not done that. Then, who?

Taehyung also downed a shot, swaying. 

A girl was looking at Jimin all too knowingly, sad eyes reflecting back at him.

Jimin looked away and tugged at Jungkook.

“Your five shots are done.” Jimin told him.

“What?” Jungkook asked, dazedly blinking back at Jimin.

“Five shots. The limit. Remember?” Jimin asked, desperately wanting to get out of here.

“Jimin, let's stay please.” Jungkook whined.

“Jiminie, stay.” Taehyung hiccuped.

Jimin gritted his teeth, “I want to go home.” He said, standing up.

Taehyung swayed but stood up too, clinging to Jimin and whispering the room was going round and round.

Everyone booed at them, or rather they booed Jimin. Jungkook stood up too on shaky legs, glaring at the group as much as was possible with his alcohol heavy eyes.

“Come on. Let’s go.” Jimin muttered, now feeling fully sober.

His thoughts were a whirlwind that wouldn’t stop.

Jimin was simultaneously itching to know whom Jungkook had done all those things with and wanting to erase the past few minutes.

Who had Jungkook done all those things with and why had it not been Jimin?

On his bike? Seriously? In a movie theatre? Hooking up with a stranger? Role playing? Jimin knew Jungkook had his fair share of physical partners but this was too much right?

Jimin managed to get Jungkook and Taehyung outside as they stumbled through.

They were waiting for a cab when Taehyung, who was leaning on Jungkook, spoke.

“Gukkie.”

Jungkook hummed.

“Don’t wanna be single.”

Jungkook hummed again, nodding, “Being single sucks.”

Taehyung snorted, “Say’s you.”

Taehyung pointed at a girl and whispered to Jungkook.

“She is pretty. What about here?”

Jungkook squinted and then huffed, “Been there, done that.”

Jimin’s eyes snapped up. Did Jungkook really say that? His two friends however were too drunk to realize how Jimin was fuming.

“Him?” Taehyung nodded towards a guy.

“Been there, done that part 2.” Jungkook giggled like he had cracked a big joke.

Jimin’s teeth clenched. He couldn’t help but look at the boy, sizing him up.

“Would I ever find someone who does not have Gukkie cooties?” Taehyung said, whiny.

Jungkook grinned. Jimin was sure he meant it to look wolfish but it just looked deranged.

The cab arrived and Jimin managed to get the two into it, along with himself.

By the time the next morning had arrived, Jimin had not gotten a wink of sleep, which meant he had a killer headache the next day.

Which turned out to be convenient when Jungkook’s guilty eyes met him. Jimin had asked him what happened and Jungkook began haltingly, “About last night….”

Jimin had cut him off, waving and saying his head was aching him and he couldn’t remember anything.

Jungkook’s sigh of relief stabbed at his chest. 

The next few days, Jimin was a little reserved. When  asked, Jimin had simply said his research team was due for a review soon and he was just stressed.

Jungkook was extra sweet and extra attentive in the days following the party.

Jimin would often catch Jungkook guilty looking at him. Not that Jungkook had anything to feel guilty about. 

Rationally. Jimin knew that whatever had happened, had happened before they got together.

Jimin kept repeating to himself that he did not have a problem with Jungkook’s past until he believed it himself.

A month had passed since the freshers party and Jimin was still struggling. He refused to talk to Jungkook about it because he knew the conclusion Jungkook would draw out of it and Jimin DID NOT have a problem with Jungkook’s past.

He did not.

Jimin had taken to analyzing and over analyzing Jungkoo’s behaviour over the past month. He over thought, every time Jungkook was speaking to someone else.

Had Jungkook shared physical intimacy with them?

Had they kissed?

Where did they have sex?

What other things don’t I know about Jungkook’s past?

Jimin clung a little tighter to Jungkook, refusing to take his eyes off the man who held his heart.

Whenever they ended up in bed together with Jimin beneath Jungkook, pleasure running through him, he grew frantic in his touch. Like someone was going to take Jungkook away. Like they were living this fantasy on borrowed time.

If Jimin had known how true that feeling was, he would have spent much more time loving Jungkook than he did on overthinking everything.

It was a week before their 6 month anniversary when it happened. The beginning to the end.

Jimin and Hoseok were talking when Jimin realized that their 6 month anniversary coincided with the third Friday of the month.

Their friends would be coming over as it is, why not celebrate it with the people who were there for the journey.

Jimin had skipped across campus to find Jungkook.

He had found Jungkook right next to the media building.

What he had not expected was for Jungkook to be hugging someone. A girl.

Jimin saw red.

Fuming, Jimin stalked forward. Jungkook saw Jimin and his eyes widened at the expression on Jimin’s face. 

Before Jungkook could say or do anything, he had a death grip on the girls arm and was pulling her forcefully away from Jungkook, whirling her around.

The girl gasped and jerked her arm before looking at Jimin. Immediately her face brightened and she beamed at him.

“Jimin.” Jieun happily called out, hugging Jimin much like she had done to Jungkook.

Jimin was shocked. Both at the girl standing in front of her and his own actions.

“Noona.” Jimin managed to get out of his throat, hugging Jieun back.

Jimin chanced a glance at Jungkook whose jaw was clenched tight, glaring at Jimin, looking pissed.

Belatedly Jimin remembered Jungkook mentioning this. Jieun was elder to Jimin by a year and to Jungkook by 3 years. She was Jungkook’s cousin who came to visit them each summer. They had grown up with each other.

That was until Jieun got an opportunity to work with a documentary crew that was touring Korea. She had taken a year long break from uni to pursue that.

Jungkook had mentioned her returning this Thursday. It was only Monday though.

Smiling Jimin pulled back. He could see Jungkook schooling his expression out of the corner of his eyes.

“Surprise.” Jieun said, beaming at Jimin. “I was supposed to come on Thursday but it got pre-poned. I was just asking Jungkook to call you but he wouldn’t stop gushing about you.”

Jimin smiled at her, unable to return her infectious energy knowing that Jungkook was pissed with him.

“I am glad you are back Noona.”

Jieun being the angel she is, did not question anything, though her eyes sung between Jimin and Jungkook calculatively.

She was sharp. She was a media student afterall. Thankfully though, she did not dwell on it.

She lightly slapped Jimin’s arm.

“Jungkook tells me you two got together.” She said, her voice infectiously happy.

Despite himself, Jimin felt a smile blooming on his face.

“We did.” Jimin confirmed and looked to Jungkook to see his smile mirrored genuinely on his boyfriend's face.

“He wouldn’t stop gushing about you. Ate my ear off.” Jieun complained and Jimin laughed, glancing up at Jungkook who had a pink tint to his cheeks.

“How did that happen?” Jieun asked, with unbridled excitement in her voice.

“I threatened to go to the USA.” Jungkook deadpanned.

“He kissed me. Without warning.” Jimin said, eyes wide.

This was much of their childhood dynamic. Jimin and Jungkook always got along until Jieun came along each year for the summer vacation. Then they both wanted Jieun’s attention and complained about each other to her.

“He kissed back.”

“He was all whiny saying Hyung asked me to stay.”

“He made me cry.”

“You made me cry first.”

“That was not crying, that was a hysterical breakdown.”

“Because of you.” Jimin said, poking his finger on Jungkook’s chest.

“You went on dates when I was receiving flowers on your behalf.”

“You set me up on those dates.” Jimin shot back.

Jieun’s head was swinging between the two of them, eyes wide.

“This sounds like a very interesting story that I want to hear in detail.” She said, eyes sparkling.

Jimin turned up his nose on Jungkook and intertwined his hand with Jieun’s saying, “Come Noona. I will tell you all about this oblivious idiot.”

“Heyyy.” Jungkook said, affronted from the back as he followed them.

They spent a pleasant afternoon with Jieun as they caught up with each other’s life.

It wasn’t until Jimin’s phone was ringing that he realised he had totally missed telling Tae he would be away.

He received the call instantly.

“Jiminieeeee where are youuu?” Taehyung sang over the line.

“Oh we are at Yonbok’s restaurant…"

“Be there in 5 minutes.” Taehyung said, cutting the call.

Jimin stared at his phone. Well. Looks like Taehyung is coming over.

True to his words, Taehyung was there in 5 minutes, plopping down on the seat and sighing.

At this point Taehyung realised there was someone else there and then Jimin witnessed what he had never thought he would.

Taehyung waved shyly at Jieun, mouth moving but no words coming out.

Jieun looked amused, waving back.

“No.” Jungkook hissed at Taehyung.

Taehyung for his part had no quips. He just turned to Jungkook blankly and then waved at him too.

“No.” Jungkook hissed again, voice desperate.

Jimin held back a laugh. Looks like Taehyung had an instant crush.

“No for what?” Jieun asked.

“Bad puppy.” Taehyung blurted out to Jungkook and then looked at Jimin with wide terrified eyes.

Everyone froze.

“Bad puppy?” Jieun asked, voice confused, “My brother is a puppy?”

“Brother?” Taehyung squeaked and then cleared his throat, “Brother? Jungkook is your brother?”

Jieun nodded and Jungkook groaned in pain.

Jimin had never seen Taehyung's grin quite so wide.

“I am Taehyung.” Taehyung said, extending his hand forward to Jieun, seemingly getting back his confidence.

“Jieun.” Jieun said, shaking his eyes and smiling.

“I know.” Taehyung enthused, “I have been watching the documentary you anchor.”

“Noona.” Jungkook interjected and it was like there were stars in Taehyung's eyes.

“Noona.” Taehyung repeated and Jimin swore it sounded a little breathless. Jungkook’s head thumped on the table.

Jimin could see the exact moment Jieun got spooked by everything.

“I am gonna go.” Jieun said, “I have to get to the administrator's office for some work before they close.” she said, gathering her things.

Jungkook and Jimin hugged Jieun and Taehyung shyly offered his hand to her again.

“I am in love.” Taehyung smiled dreamily once she was gone.

“No.” Jungkook snapped.

Taehyung rolled his eyes, “Bye puppy.” he said, running out before Jungkook could get to him.

Jimin was laughing which was cut short when Jungkook turned to him.

“What was that before?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin gulped, “I am sorry. I thought…” Jimin trailed off.

“Thought what?” Jungkook asked.

“You were hugging a girl in the middle of the campus. What was I supposed to think?” Jimin said, defensive.

“It could have been a friend.” Jungkook reasoned and then shook his head, “Not even a friend. Since when have you known me to hug people out in the open unless it is you.”

Jimin snorted, “You have done way more than hug people outside.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Jungkook asked, his voice snappish.

“Having sex on your bike which was parked outside counts as more than a hug.” Jimin snapped back.

Jungkook reared back, “You remember.”

“Ofcourse I remember.” Jimin said, annoyed.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Jungkook asked, voice quiet now.

“Why should I? Only for you to ask if I have a problem with your past?” Jimin said, his temper flaring.

“Well? Do you?” Jungkook asked.

“See.” Jimin said, clenching his jaw.

“What do you expect me to think Jimin?” Jungkook sighed like this conversation was aging him, “You are doubting me. We have been together for 6 months and I have spent every spare moment with you. I only look at you. I only touch you. I only love you. I want nothing and no one else and yet you are doubting me. Tell me Jimin What can I do? Please tell me what I can do to get your trust.”

“I do trust you.” Jimin said, his voice wobbling.

“Please don’t cry.” Jungkook said, pained.

Jungkook gathered Jimin into himself and stroked his arm soothingly.

“Let’s go home and talk about this okay?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin nodded.

They did talk about it when they got home.

Jimin apologised and swore it wouldn’t happen again.

He trusted Jungkook. He trusted Jungkook more than he did himself. Jimin knew he was reacting like this out of his own insecurities, not because Jungkook had done anything.

Jungkook wanted to talk about that drunken night as well but Jimin had refused.

He had told Jungkook that he did not want to add images to his head of Jungkook with other people.

It had broken Jimin’s heart how pained Jungkook looked.

Jungkook had tears in his eyes when he said, “If I could undo it all, I would. I swear to you Jimin.”

Jimin had believed him.

Jungkook had always pictured a life besides Jimin.

Sure, he had tricked himself into thinking he wanted nothing more than friendship with Jimin for the first few years, but now that his eyes had opened he knew he would never settle for anything less than having Jimin, wholly and completely belong to him.

Jungkook felt a peace he had never known settle into his heart as he looked around at his friends.

He sometimes felt like he was living the premium version of his life. It felt surreal sometimes which made Jungkook all the more thankful and appreciative of every person he had in his life right now.

Wherever he looked, he saw smiling faces and heard joyful laughs.

Jungkook was content, filled to the brim with love and happiness and it all had roots in one man and one man alone - Jimin.

His Jimin shone brighter than any star in the sky. His Jimin whose warmth rivaled that of the sun. 

His Jimin who was currently standing next to Jin Hyung, laughing as he leaned his body completely on the man.

“Poster boy for whipped.” Yoongi said, from beside him.

“Tell me about it.” Mingyu agreed, “He perpetually had that dumb smile stuck to his face.”

“It is called being happy, try it some time.” Jungkook said, still not able to wipe the smile off his face.

The rice cooker beeped and Jungkook got up from his place to turn it off.

Jungkook was aware Jimin followed him but let his boyfriend make the first move.

When nothing happened, Jungkook turned to find Jimin staring at Jungkook.

Jungkook raised his brows in a silent question.

Jimin stepped forward until he was in Jungkook’s arms and then whispered, “How are you mine?”

“The same way I am yours.” Jungkook whispered back, nuzzling his nose against Jimin’s.

Jimin leaned forward kissing Jungkook. Their friends all groaned at the display causing Jungkook to smile into the kiss,

“They are just jealous.” Jungkook said, pulling back.

“They are disgusted.” Namjoon offered.

“Jealous I tell you.” Jungkook winked.

Jimin giggled lightly and Jungkook felt his heart soar. He was so gone for this man.

Later when they were done with dinner, Jungkook suddenly remembered something and shook Yoongi who was close to dozing off.

Yoongi scowled, “Why?”

“Tell your brother to keep his grubby hands away from my sister.” Jungkook said.

Yoongi blinked. The conversation around them slowed.

“Now that is a sentence I never thought I would hear.” Hoseok mused.

“What is this? Whose brother is doing whose sister?” Jin Hyung asked.

“Me Me.” Taehyung piped up happily. Jungkook was going to murder the man. “I am Yoongi Hyung’s brother and I am doing Jungkook's sister.”

Jungkook was wrong. He was going to pull each hair out of Taehyung’s head till he was bald and then murder him.

“You are not doing my sister.” Jungkook snapped.

“Yet.” Taehyung said, having the audacity to wiggle his brows at Jungkook.

Jimin sat beside Jungkook and squeezed his shoulder. 

“No.” Jungkook scowled.

“You like her?” Yoongi interjected.

“It’s Lee Jieun." Taehyung whispered in a conspiratorial tone.

The wide eyes of their friends turned to Jungkook, “Your sister is Lee Jieun?” Namjoon asked, reverent. He instantly received a whack from Jin Hyung on his head.

Jungkook sniggered. Served him right.

“My cousin.” Jungkook confirmed.

“Go ahead.” Yoongi nodded to Taehyung and closed his eyes.

Jungkook’s jaw dropped. What the….

“No go ahead.” Jungkook scowled.

Taehyung very childishly stuck his tongue out at Jungkook.

“Just because you are a prude…” Taehyung challenged.

“I am the prude? I have a higher body count than any of you’ll.” Jungkook said and instantly received a sharp elbow to his side from Yoongi.

Jungkook felt Jimin go rigid beside him.

Dead silence followed. Jungkook bit his tongue.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

“Jimin. Sorry. I was not thinking.” Jungkook said. Jimin stared straight ahead, frozen.

“Jimin-ah.” Taehyung began, “It is my fault. I was provoking him.” 

“It - It is okay.” Jimin said, his eyes refocusing though he refused to meet anyone’s eyes.

“No. No. It is not. I am so sorry. I know you don’t like it. I will be more mindful. I am so sor - “ 

Jungkook’s rambling cut off when Jimin abruptly stood.

“I do not have a problem with it.” Jimin said, his voice cold.

“Ofcourse,” Jungkook sat back, hands in his lap. He was very sure he looked like a scolded child right now.

“I don't." Jimin said again, voice heavier.

“We know.” Jin Hyung said in a soft voice, lifting a hand towards Jimin who just cringed.

Jungkook felt worse as the seconds ticked past.

Steeling himself, Jungkook stood up, pulling Jimin to himself.

For the first time in his life, he felt Jimin resist. It set off a panicked desperation in Jungkook.

“Jimin.” Jungkook could hear his voice break as he attempted to pull Jimin into himself again only for Jimin to struggle and bodily pull himself away from Jungkook.

Taehyung  stood up and steadied Jimin.

The others slowly stood up too.

“I don’t have a problem with it.” Jimin repeated.

Jungkook locked eyes with Taehyung and for once it seemed they were on the same page.

Softly, slowly, Taehyung turned Jimin to himself. “It is okay to have a problem with it Jimin-ah.”

Jungkook nodded, despite knowing that Jimin could not see him.

“We would help you with it. Jungkook would too.” Taehyung said, softly cupping Jimin’s face.

Jungkook couldn’t even bring himself to resent Taehyung for the action. He needed Jimin to feel that comfort even if it did not come from himself.

“I don’t have a problem with it.” Jimin repeated stubbornly, shaking his head.

“It’s okay.” Taehyung said softly.

Jimin abruptly pulled back.

“Sometimes… sometimes I feel like I am the only one committed to this relationship.” Jimin said to Taehyung.

“You are kidding right? I have never seen a man more in love than that one there.” Taehyung said, motioning to Jungkook “And I live with these two half the time.” He gestured to Yoongi and Hoseok.

Jimin shook his head.

“I know he loves me.” Jimin said. Jungkook felt a small modicum of relief course through him. At least Jimin knew that.

Jungkook’s heart was aching. All he wanted to do was go ahead and gather Jimin back up in his arms but he did not know if he was even allowed to do so right now.

He didn’t want Jimin resisting again. He didn’t want Jimin struggling to get free of his hold again. It felt worse than if he would have been slapped.

“Jimin.” Jungkook called, not knowing what else to do.

Jungkook felt severely wrong-footed. Like one wrong move from him and everything would come tumbling down.

Jimin shook his head, back still turned to Jungkook. The pain in Jungkook’s chest sharpened.

“Alright.” Mingyu said, “Why don’t we all just take some time. Taehyung, would you please take Jimin inside? I'll take Jungkook here for a walk or something.”

Taehyung nodded. The rest of his friends relaxed a little until Jimin spoke.

“No. It is okay. I am okay.” Jimin said, stepping out of Taehyung reach.

Jimin turned to Jungkook and said, “I am sorry.”

Jungkook was shaking his head already, “No. No, I am. This is my mistake.”

“Which one? Sleeping around? Or boasting about your bodycount?” Jimin asked.

“Both?” Jungkook said, not wanting to have this conversation in front of everyone especially since everything felt so fragile.

Jimin snorted, “How convenient!"

“Convenient?” Jungkook repeated blankly.

“Sleeping around and then saying sorry. Having your cake and then eating it too.” Jimin snapped.

Jungkook remained silent, not knowing what to say.

“Jimin.” Yoongi said in a no-nonsense tone, “When you say it like that it sounds an awful lot like you accusing him of cheating. Which is not the case here.”

Jimin irritably pushed his hand through his hair, “I get that.”

“Then what point are you trying to make?” Yoongi asked again.

“Hyung.” Taehyung shook his head at Yoongi.

“No. No.” Jimin said, his ire rising when he caught the action, “Let him talk. Let them tell me all the ways I am wrong.” 

“Jimin.” The warning in Namjoon’s tone was not light.

Mingyu was pulling Jungkook back murmuring in his ear, “Let it go Gukk.”

Jungkook stood frozen in place. Why were they having this conversation right now? Right here?

Jimin pushed his hair back in frustration and pointed an accusing finger at Jungkook. “You know how difficult it is for me to look at you and remember all the times you were out there fucking someone.”

Jungkook’s legs were shivering. He had no idea how he was still standing upright.

“How do I make this right?” Jungkook asked, voice thick.

“I don’t know Jungkook.” Jimin said, his voice rising along with his frustration. “I hate feeling like this. You were… You are all I want and yet I am not happy because this keeps bothering me.”

“We should all go.” Hoseok pipped in for the first time since this all began.

“No. No. Stay.” Jimin insisted.

“Jimin. You two need to talk this out.” Hoseok said soothingly.

Yes. Jungkook wanted to implore. Please. He wanted to beg.

“No. No. Stay.” Jimin repeated, “Me and Jungkook could talk later. Not like I have anywhere to go.”

“Why would you say it like that?” Jungkook asked before his brain would catch up with him.

Jimin looked at him.

“You live here. I live here. Where would I go?” Jimin snapped. “I… I feel stuck.”

“Stuck.” Jungkook repeated in shock. “You feel stuck? With me?”

Jimin screamed, startling everyone. Jungkook took a step back. Maybe Mingyu was right. He needed to remove himself from this situation. Give both of them some time to cool off.

Jungkook looked at Mingyu who instantly understood what Jungkook wanted. He moved to Jungkook and they turned.

“Where the fuck do you think you are going?” Jimin called.

Jungkook was losing his patience. First Jimin makes a scene and then says he is stuck with Jungkook. What does he even want?

“Out.” Jungkook said.

“Finding your flavour for the night?” Jimin said, his voice sounding nasty.

“Jimin.” Taehyung shouted, anger evident in his voice. Jungkook had never heard Taehyung snapping at Jimin. “That is enough.”

“Why are you shouting at me? Tell him. He is the one that slept around.” Jimin said, whirling on Taehyung.

Jungkook makes a frustrated noise, “Jimin why are you so fixated on that?”

“Wouldn’t you be fixated if our places were swapped?” Jimin challenged. 

“You did have a boyfriend Jimin and you know how many times I have mentioned him? Zero times.” Jungkook snapped back.

“Okay Guys.” Hoseok said, his voice alarmed.

“Break it off you two.” Jin Hyung said, stepping forward.

“You did not bring it up because it was one man. One relationship.” Jimin said, eyes blazing.

“You had a choice, Jimin. If you wanted to, you could have had more relationships.” Jungkook shot back, clenching his teeth, “Not my fault you chose not to.”

"At least I did not whore around like you.” Jimin snapped. Jungkook could see Jimin's eyes widen in horror the moment the words left his mouth.

Jungkook was livid. Despite having asked Jimin multiple times, Jimin had staunchly maintained that he did not have a problem with Jungkook’s past. Then why was he bringing this up now in such a vicious way?

“It is not my fault that you couldn't express your sexuality. That is on you.” Jungkook said, banging his hand on the table next to him.

Jimin visibly flinched back and Jungkook felt a thrill of satisfaction run up his spine. How does that feel now? He thought snidely.

“Jungkook, that’s crossing the line.” Taehyung said, stepping next to Jimin.

“You do not get to talk. You are not a part of this relationship.” Jungkook snapped, feeling more and more irritated by the second.

Rationally he knew there was no point in him getting so upset. He should probably usher their friends out and have a calm and proper conversation with Jimin

It was silly to have this fight in front of everyone. Jungkook was about to propose just that when Jimin spoke, “Don’t speak to Taehyung like that.”

Jungkook sighed and reigned in his temper. He knew Jimin and Taehyung were close. He knew Jimin’s loyalty ran deep, especially to people who had stuck with him in his time of need. Jungkook knew all that and yet he couldn’t help but feel a little lost. 

Why was it okay for Jimin to speak this way in front of everyone to Jungkook? But it was not okay for Jungkook to ask Taehyung to stay out of it?

“Jimin. Let’s just calm down and - “ Jungkook began, now desperate to have Jimin listen to him.

“Fuck you Jungkook. There is only one thing you are good for and that is going around warming people’s beds. Why did I even think emotions are something you could possess?" Jimin snapped.

Jungkook felt his eyes ache, a tell tale sign of tears wanting to be let out.

“How could you say that?” Jungkook asked, feeling even more betrayed.

He had loved Jimin all his life. As a friend. As a lover. He had never let Jimin doubt his love ever. He had done everything in his power and more to make Jimin feel loved and cherished. Had he failed?

“As for expressing my sexuality - I was the fool who was in love with you. Biggest mistake of my fucking life.” Jimin snapped, taking a step forward.

Jimin’s expression was fierce, like he was two seconds away from tearing Jungkook a new one.

Jungkook felt his throat close up. He had definitely failed.

“Jimin. That’s enough” Yoongi warned, stepping up beside Jungkook.

“Oh please. If he can go around getting his dick wet he can speak for himself.” Jimin snapped.

Jungkook steeled himself. If a fight was what Jimin wanted, then a fight is what he would get, “Stop blaming being in love with me for your lack of experience. I was in love too…. That did not stop me”

“Do you hear yourself? That is not the great argument you think it is. And were you? In love?” Jimin asked, giving out a dry disbelieving laugh.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Jungkook asked, his temper rising.

“If you were in love then, you wouldn't have been sleeping around.” Jimin snapped, looking at Jungkook with something akin to disgust.

Exasperated, Jungkook carded his hand through his hair, pushing it back.

“What do you want me to say Jimin ? Yes I slept around. Yes I did what I wanted. I can't undo those things. And you seem to have a problem with it.” Jungkook said, feeling a little defeated.

Why was Jimin fighting with him on this? It was silly right? He in no way wanted to invalidate Jimin’s feelings but they could sit down and have a conversation right? Why were they fighting in front of an audience?

“I do not have a problem with it. That is your guilt speaking.” Jimin said, gritting his teeth.

Jungkook’s jaw dropped, “My guilt? Why would I feel guilt?”

“Oh I don't know because I thought you would have basic human decency. My bad I suppose.” Jimin said, looking at Taehyung with a ‘Can-you-believe-this-guy?’ look

“How is this my fault? Why am I being blamed here?” Jungkook snapped, his frustration mounting.

“Guys. Enough.” Namjoon spoke. Neither of them paid any mind to it.

“I am not blaming you. I already told you I do not have a problem with it.” Jimin repeated.

“Alright. You don't have a problem with it. We can work this out.” Jungkook said.

If he had to concede to take the blame he would. He would take all the blame in the world and then some more if it meant he would not be fighting with Jimin anymore.

Jungkook took a step towards Jimin only for Jimin to step back.

Jungkook paused, unsure on how to proceed. His arms itched to pull Jimin into himself.

This was wrong. All wrong. They weren’t supposed to fight like this.

“It's just that don't say you were in love with me then because those weren't the actions of a man in love.” Jimin spat out, still looking livid.

“Jimin. Let’s calm down.” Hoseok said, throwing an arm around Jimin’s shoulder and pulling him back.

Jimin shrugged Hoseok off and looked at Jungkook, challenging him.

What did Jimin want to hear? How was he supposed to fix this?

Jungkook sighed.

“Jimin. I don't understand why you are dragging this. You just said you didn't have a problem with it. Yes I was in love and yes I slept around. Those things aren't mutually exclusive.”

Jungkook tried to take another step forward only for Jimin to lift his hands and push Jungkook back.

Jungkook stumbled back. Jin Hyung caught him around the shoulders and steadied him.

“Jimin. Enough.” Jin Hyung said, his voice holding enough authority for Jimin to shrivel back a little.

“What is that even supposed to mean for us? You are still in love right now. Would you still sleep around now seeing as those things are not mutually exclusive?” Jimin asked, folding his hands across his chest.

“We are together. Why would I do that? Have I even looked at someone else since we got together?” Jungkook asked, feeling lost.

Has he ever given Jimin that impression? He had wanted nothing and no one since he had Jimin. He only had eyes for Jimin and had told him as much multiple times.

Where did he go wrong? He asked himself internally.

“What do I know?” Jimin snapped, still looking cross. His voice was loud enough to ring in Jungkook’s head.

That did it for Jungkook. He was many things but a cheater was not one of them. Jungkook would take any and every accusation from Jimin and bear the weight of it but he refused to let Jimin paint him in an unfaithful light.

“Are you for real right now?” Jungkook asked incredulously. His temper that he was trying hard to reign in was now flaring beyond his control.

Jimin shrugged, “You have already slept with more than half of them.” Jimin said, his voice dry.

“Jimin, you just said you don't have a problem with that.” Jungkook snapped.

“Maybe I do.” Jimin spat back.

“Then tell me what I could do to fix it.” Jungkook pleaded. He would do anything to set Jimin’s mind at ease, anything to not fight with Jimin, anything to reassure Jimin.

“There is nothing you can do.” Jimin said, his voice wobbly.

Jungkook felt his heart break, “Please Jimin.” He all but begged, “Tell me what I can do to make it up to you” 

Jungkook took another step forward, just for Jimin to flinch back and violently shake his head. Jungkook had never felt despair so profound. His chest ached as he took a step back again.

“There is nothing you can do.” Jimin said, turning to Taehyung who wordlessly wrapped Jimin into his arms.

Jungkook felt his ire rise steadily.

“Then why the fuck did you even agree to being together if you had so much of a problem with it.” Jungkook snapped, feeling his own pain rising along with the anger.

“Because I love you.” Jimin said, red-rimmed eyes looked at him like Jungkook was a mistake.

“Do you?” Jungkook asked.

He felt Yoongi place a hand on his shoulder. Squeezing it silently in a bid to get Jungkook to back off.

“How dare you?” Jimin said, voice rising, “I have loved you all my life. I was not the one sleeping around despite being in love.” Jimin's voice was louder than expected.

“You practicing abstinence is not my fault. What do you want to do? Sleep around yourself to even the score? Do it then.” Jungkook said, his voice equally loud.

“What?” Jimin asked, wide eyes staring at Jungkook in utter shock.

“You heard me. If you have so much of a problem with it then go around spreading your legs. I don't give two fucks. I’ll wait here until you even out the score.” Jungkook snapped.

How was he supposed to have a relationship with Jimin when Jimin was so fixated on the past? He constantly brought it up and yet insisted he did not have a problem with it. The way Jungkook saw it, he understood that Jimin did not want to solve this. No. He just wanted Jungkook to feel guilty and grovel at his feet.

“You don't mean that.” Jimin said, removing himself from Taehyung and taking a step towards Jungkook.

“Don't I? You are blaming me for something so stupid.” Jungkook snapped. He looked at Jimin but all he could see was a stranger. This was not his best friend. This was not the man he fell in love with.

“Stupid? What is stupid is you saying you were in love while sleeping around.” Jimin said, anger bleeding back into his voice.

“Alright. Let's all calm down. We are going in circles here.” Jin Hyung said, pulling Jungkook back.

Jungkook shrugged him off.

“What do you want me to say hyung? That I was not in love back then? Fine. I was not in love back then. Frankly seeing all this now I would rather not be in love right now either.” Jungkook snapped.

Jimin reared back as though he had been physically pushed.

“I am not some pathetic person who needs your pity love.” Jimin spat out. 

“You are behaving like one so expect to be treated like one.” Jungkook fired back.

“Fuck off.” Jimin screamed.

“Gladly. I need a partner who would talk things out. Not a bottomless pit of neediness like you.” Jungkook said in disgust.

He knew he was crossing a line. He knew he should probably shut up and give Jimin time and space to calm down but he had had enough.

Jungkook had tried, genuinely tried to get Jimin to listen to him. But Jimin’s words were like acid pointed javellians spearing straight through his heart.

“Gukk.” Jimin said, in a small voice.

Jungkook felt exasparated. Now he had made Jimin cry. Great. Jungkook just went from the bad guy who slept around to now the villain who made everyone’s precious Jimin cry.

“Oh please.” Jungkook snapped, his voice louder than he intended, “Blaming me for your inexperience which by the way I have never had a problem with. Blaming me for sleeping around before we got together which you claim to not have a problem with but insist on bringing up. What am I to even do?” 

A part of Jungkook knew that he was rapidly reaching the point of no return but he did not have it in himself to stop the poison spewing from his mouth.

“I don't have a problem with it.” Jimin insisted, wiping a lone tear from his cheeks.

“That is the 3rd time you are saying it and yet this conversation drags on.” Jungkook raised his hands and dropped them in frustration.

“I don't. Let's just forget this entire thing. I am sorry.” Jimin said, shaking his head. 

He reached Jungkook and took Jungkook’s larger hands in his own, lightly caressing Jungkook’s palm with his thumbs.

Jungkook shrugged Jimin off and pulled his hands back. Belatedly he realised he had been too rough. He should have been more mindful, but his rage was now a full on fire that consumed him from his to toe.

His blood was rushing and his head felt heavier. He was so done with this conversation.

“Gukk. Don’t” Mingyu said, pulling Jungkook back.

Jungkook struggled against the hold and pushed Mingyu off to the side, still glaring at a teary eyed Jimin.

“Are you? Are you sorry? Do you really want to forget the whole thing? Or are you going to bring it right back up once these people are gone? Why are we even having this conversation in front of others? To show how pitiful and sweet you are while I am the vile person who can't keep you happy, who sleeps around…. That is the image these people have of me thanks to you and you are just feeding kindling to fire.” Jungkook snapped.

If he had so much consideration towards Jimin, did he not deserve some of the same in return?

“Gukk.” Twin warnings sounded from Yoongi and Jin Hyung but Jungkook ignored them.

“That's not - “ Jimin began but Jungkook cut him off.

“Isn't it? Was there any reason to bring this up in front of everyone?” Jungkook spat, feeling livid now.

Jimin had berated him in front of everyone and had refused to listen to Jungkook's rational conversation and now that he was crying, was Jungkook just supposed to go back to doting boyfriend and forget all the things Jimin felt comfortable enough spewing at him in front of everyone?

“Look Gukk. I am sorry. This is getting out of hand. I don't -” Jimin began again, once more taking Jungkook’s hand only for Jungkook to shrug Jimin’s hand again.

“Stop it.” Jungkook all but roared.

“Jungkook.” Taehyung and Mingyu shouted in unison.

Jimin flinched. How was Jungkook the bad guy here?

“Sure. Now say sorry and look even more pitiful, why don't you? I am not even at fault here and yet I'll be painted as the bad guy.” Jungkook gave a sardonic laugh, pushing a hand through his hair.

“You aren't. You have been a wonderful boyfriend.” Jimin said, taking another step in Jungkook’s direction only to retreat at Jungkook's glare.

“Oh woe is me.” Jungkook mocked, “Look at my whore of a boyfriend. What had you called me on that first day? Oh yeah. A communal dick. Is that what you want to show everyone? You being a sweet little angel and me being the big bad corrupt demon?” Jungkook snarled.

Jimin shook his head, his tears now flowing steadily. A part of Jungkook felt a pang in his heart at having to see Jimin cry because of him. He wanted to go to Jimin, to beg for his forgiveness but he was also tired.

So tired of the constant comments and of Jimin having a problem with something Jungkook could not change.

“For that matter” Jungkook began, “if you had so much of a problem with me sleeping around why didn't you say anything? Why didn't you confess?” Jungkook asked.

Jimin looked at Jungkook with wide eyes.

“I'll tell you why.” Jungkook continued, venom in his voice, “Because perfect little Jimin didn't have the balls or confess neither did he have the balls to explore his sexuality and now insecure little Jimin is blaming his boyfriend for having lived his own life.”

Jimin looked like he had been slapped.

“Jungkook Enough.” Yoongi shouted at the same time Mingyu pushed himself between Jungkook and Jimin, pushing Jungkook back.

“Come on. Let’s go. You need to calm the fuck down.” Mingyu said.

Jungkook bodily wrestled Mingyu out of the way, “Stay the fuck away.” Jungkook snarled at Mingyu, “This does not concern you.”

Jungkook looked back at Jimin to see his face crumpled in tears.

“Gukkie. Please.” Jimin whispered, raising a hand towards Jungkook and then dropping it.

“Oh here come the tears. Ofcourse. Everybody bow down to the great Park Jimin. He has started crying. Give the crying baby all your sympathy and pity.” Jungkook snapped, feeling his anger rising.

“That is fucking enough Jungkook.” Taehyung snarled, bringing Jimin into his arms.

“Go cool the fuck down.” Hoseok snapped.

“Fuck off.” Jungkook screamed.

“You do not talk to him like that.” Yoongi snapped, now standing in front of Jungkook, “Get your fucking mouth under control.”

“Why are you all ganging up on me?” Jungkook paused and pointed to all his friends.

Yoongi reeled back with a clenched jaw.

“Jungkook.” Jin Hyung admonished.

“Why are you all scolding me? You only see that I slept around. But we were not in a relationship at that time.” Jungkook said, gesturing between himself and Jimin, “Since we have been together I have never once even looked at anyone else.”

“Oh fuck off Jungkook.” Jimin’s voice suddenly rose up, “Fuck right off. Should have let you go to the USA. I wasted my time and breath on scum like you.” Jimin said, wiping his tears, the anger back in his voice.

Jungkook’s jaw dropped “Scum? ust because I - “ Jungkook began

“Yeah because you slept around. There. I said it. What would you do? Go back around warming people's beds. That is the only thing you seem to be good at.” Jimin spat, untangling himself from Taehyung.

Jimin aggressively wiped his tears and his eyes steeled. Jungkook felt the first tendrils of panic creep into his tummy.

Jungkook looked around at the room full of their friends, “None of you are going to tell him anything?”

Jungkook felt weirdly betrayed. Was he so bad? Was he really at fault here? How was he to know that Jimin was in love with him all those years?

“Yes. I am pathetic because I fell in love with a moron like you.” Jimin said, Jungkook could see Jimin visibly shaking in anger, “All you are good for is a quick fuck, not for hearts and flowers. No wonder, no one wants more from you than your dick. Thank you by the way for today. Because the 24 years of love I had for you is just gone now.”

Jimin dusted his hands. Jungkook followed the motion of his hands, feeling his throat close up.

No. No. No. Jimin could not be saying what he thinks he is saying. 

This is spiraling too fast. Jungkook should stop it.

“Gone.” Jimin declared, “All I feel for you now is bone deep hatred.” Jimin said, eyes holding a fire, Jungkook had never seen before.

Jungkook felt his heart beating wildly in his chest. His ears started ringing.

Why was Jimin saying all that? Why was he being so mean?

“I don't want to hear from you ever again. Don't even bother reaching out to me anymore unless it's for a funeral announcement for you and even then I would say it is a waste of paper.” Jimin spat.

Someone said something but Jungkook couldn’t hear. He felt his stomach drop, felt himself break out in cold sweat.

He should say something. He should stop Jimin. Yet, Jungkook felt frozen.

Why wasn’t someone stopping Jimin?

Jimin turned around and marched towards the door, his voice was loud enough to carry over as he said, “Never again Jungkook. You would never have me again.”

That broke Jungkook out of the surreal trance he had been in.

“Jimin.” Jungkook stumbled forward only to be pushed back.

Was it Hoseok? Yoongi? Jungkook did not care. He needed to go after Jimin.

“Jimin.” Jungkook screamed at the retreating figure. Look back. Please look back, he chanted.

Someone was holding him back. Jungkook struggled with all his might. More hands held him back. Someone was shouting something. Jungkook fell to his knees, still struggling.

“Jimin.” Jungkook screamed again, his voice raw, “Hyung.” Jungkook screamed.

Jimin did not look back. He continued walking ahead.

No. No. No. No. 

“JIMIN.” Jungkook could feel a tear in his throat as he screamed. The metallic taste of blood spread on his tongue. Jungkook still struggled.

Jimin rounded the corner and disappeared from sight.

No. No. No. No.

Jungkook couldn’t breathe. He couldn’t breathe. Jimin was gone. Why was Jimin gone? He should have just agreed with Jimin. He should have just begged and grovelled. He should have just accepted he was a manwhore who wasn’t worthy of Jimin.

Jungkook clawed at his chest. He couldn’t pull a breath in.

“Hyung.” Jungkook called out hoarsely. His throat aching as the metallic taste of blood intensified. He looked at Yoongi and then at Jin Hyung who only looked down at him with disappointment.

Jungkook had not even realized he had crumpled to the floor.

“Jimin.” Jungkook sobbed, still clawing at his throat.

He watched as Taehyung and Hoseok hurried after Jimin. Yoongi glared at Jungkook and then wordlessly followed his boyfriend.

Jin Hyung hesitated and then glanced at Namjoon who stood by the door.

No. No. No. No. No.

Jungkook rose to his knees. Someone was holding him tightly. Jungkook reached out his hand.

“Jin Hyung.” A sob broke free of Jungkook’s chest.

Jin Hyung looked down at him, “I expected more Jungkook.” He sighed as he began walking towards Namjoon who still lingered by the door.

No. No. No. No. No

“Jin Hyung.” Jungkook struggled against the hold on him.

“Hyung.” Jungkook screamed, watching as everyone left.

Bile rose in Jungkook’s throat. He was hyperventilating.

Then the arms loosened around him and Mingyu was there. Right in his face. He was saying something but Jungkook couldn’t make out what.

He couldn’t breathe.

Everything was blurred through his tears.

“Mingyu.” Jungkook whispered.

Jungkook clutched at Mingyu, terrified that his friend was going to leave as well.

Was he so bad?

Was he so wrong?

Why had everyone left him?

“Don't  go.” Jungkook’s hoarse voice cracked.

Mingyu himself had tears in his eyes. He was saying something.

Jungkook tried to focus but he couldn’t. Every beat of his heart was thundering Jimin’s name.

He had lost Jimin. He had lost his Jimin.

“Mingyu.” Jungkook struggled, “Jimin Jimin.”

Mingyu nodded, tears streaming down his face and he held Jungkook tightly.

Jungkook broke down into sobs in Mingyu’s tight hold.

Jimin.

Jimin.

His Jimin.

“Can’t breathe.” Jungkook gasped out. Black spots dancing in his vision.

Mingyu stroked his back and held him. He tried to help Jungkook but Jungkook felt like he was far beyond help.

There was no Jungkook without Jimin. And now Jimin was gone. How could Jungkook even exist?

Jungkook felt the pressure on his head steadily increasing as he gasped and writhed to draw a breath. Mingyu held him through it, sobbing right alongside Jungkook.

“Don't leave.” Jungkook whispered right before he succumbed to darkness.