TW: Mentions of past child abuse, mentions of violence

Visuals of Jimin's penthouse in the end.

***

Jungkook woke disoriented. His body was stiff with unknown tension and his mind was fully alert. It took a while to register the soft and comfortable bedding that was the color of white and blue in contrast to the black and grey he was accustomed to.

Jimin.

I'm in Jimin's room.

He blinked and sat up, rubbing his eyes as he took in the rest of the room. He remembered coming to Jimin's place, having dinner with him before washing up and climbing onto the bed while clinging onto him like a koala. The other side of the bed was empty now.

What time is it?

A loud clap of thunder cracked outside with a jolt of lightning flashing inside the room. His body jolted and he realized it was what woke him in the first place. With clenched jaws, his gaze landed on the beautiful wall clock that appeared to be custom-made on the opposite wall. It was around two-thirty a.m.

A frown tugged at the corner of his mouth. Did Jimin leave him to sleep elsewhere?

He didn't understand why he felt a pang in his chest then. They both weren't used to sharing the bed with someone. Didn't Jimin say he stayed because he went into that subspace? He sighed, his shoulders drooping as his gaze cut to the floor-to-ceiling windows that showcased the Seoul city. The room was illuminated with the only lights coming from the outside.

Jimin's duplex penthouse was classy with glass walls all around. He lived in one of the high-rise buildings as expected and his taste was chef's kiss. The master bedroom had a walk-in closet and an ensuite bathroom with a huge bath tub and Jacuzzi, the walls once again made of glass.

The bedroom itself had a comfortable living area with a well-equipped bar. It was something he had noticed about Jimin. He had a similar setup in his office too. The man always seemed to be sipping a glass of alcohol whenever he saw him and he looked so elegant while doing so.

The thunder clapped again and Jungkook couldn't help the familiar shiver it sent down his spine. He despised storms. Throwing the sheets off him, he strode to the windows barefoot. He was clad in one of the Calvin Klein boxers Jimin handed him and nothing more. Lightning danced in the sky, almost frightening, but he learned his lesson in a hard way to be not afraid anymore.

"Mommy, I'm scared."

"Ah, my sweet baby, these things can't hurt you while I'm here," she cooed, hugging him to his chest. "Mommy will make you some hot cocoa and then we will read some story books together. How does that sound, hmm?"

Jungkook felt the corner of his eyes burn at the uninvited memory. The memory itself was warm, but not anymore. He missed the warmth and comforting touches of his mother. His sweet, loving mother, who only had good things to say about her little boy.

"Hyewa, how many times do I have to tell you to not spoil him?" his father yelled for the hundredth time or maybe more. He lost count after the last couple of times. "Do not hug him. Do not touch him. I'll take him away if you do not stop this!" His voice held a final warning and Jungkook had shivered uncontrollably as he tried to hide behind his mother's legs.

He was only six.

The sky thundered again. Lightning struck a little closer, but Jungkook only stared.

"Jungkookie..." she whispered. "Your daddy doesn't like me giving you hugs or cuddles." One day his mom said to him while hugging him on the bed and reading him a bedtime story. "He says I make you weak and threatens to take you away from me."

"But I love your hugs and cuddles. Mommy keeps me safe."

"I know, baby. That's why you can't tell daddy about this, okay?" she whispered. "This is our secret. I'll hug you and give you all the kisses when he isn't here. But you have to remember to not touch me in front of him or his men. Okay?"

Jungkook had pouted. "Okay."

"I love you, my little Jungkookie. You're such a precious child. I'm so sorry that you're born in the wrong place."

Rain pelted against the glass, obscuring his view of the city. He could tell the wind must have picked up speed with the way the droplets were carried over.

"Jungwoo, please. He's scared of storms. Just this once." He watched his mom plead on her knees with tears rolling down her cheeks. "I don't spoil him otherwise. It's only for today."

"You're fucking pathetic!" his father shouted, his nostrils flaring and the muscle in his jaw ticking. "He's as pathetic as you. He wet his trousers when I yelled at him the last time."

"Jungwoo, he's only six. He's still a baby."

"He's a boy who will take over the Dragons after me," he gritted each word through his teeth. "He's the heir of this empire. But look at you, bringing him up like a sheep."

"Jungwoo, please—"

The slap echoed in the room and he saw his mother clutching her cheek from where she was on the floor.

"Mommy!" he cried out and tried to run to her only to be stopped by a steel-like grip that hurt.

He was shaking his head and before Jungkook knew what was happening he was being dragged outside the room and to the rooftop. His mother's scream followed and he turned to see her being held by two of his father's men.

"Jungwoo! Please...don't do this. Don't do this to our son."

"Mommy!"

"Jungkookie!"

He thrashed feebly in his father's arms. And the next thing he knew he was being thrown out in the rain, thunder booming in the sky.

The little boy screamed, covering his eyes as lightning struck. He proceeded to cover his ears when the thunder clapped, but it wasn't enough to keep him safe. The rain pelted his soft skin with anger. The door to the rooftop was closed and there was no place to hide. No one to hear his screams and no one to hold him and tell him he was safe.

He was only six.

Jungkook clenched his jaw so tight that he thought he would break his teeth. Tension coiled around his body. He wasn't afraid anymore. He learned the rain or these little thunders were all bark and no bite. These days he stared at them until they were gone just like he did all these years.

"Jungkookie?"

That voice. Sweet and sensual with a soft caress.

Jungkookie...

Only one other person would call him that. Jungkook whipped around to see Jimin coming toward him, still wearing only his boxers with a phone in his hand.

"You're awake." A soft smile spread on his face. Jimin rarely smiled when they met at parties or meetings. Even when he did, Jungkook could always tell they were fake. But his genuine smiles were so beautiful. It lit his entire face.

Lightning flashed with thunder. Jungkook flinched involuntarily, being caught off guard. He looked outside again. That was why he watched them. That way he wouldn't be caught off guard. They couldn't hurt him if he just stared at—

"Oh, did it wake you up?" Jimin asked, coming closer. A hand came to rest on his lower back as he produced a remote Jungkook didn't notice from where. "There were warnings in the weather forecast yesterday. Didn't think it'd be this worse." He clicked the button on the remote and the binds began to descend.

As Jungkook watched as thick binds covered all the windows, the blue color matching the only wall behind the bed. It swallowed the sounds. Most of all, it kept the storm outside. Jungkook blinked. There wasn't a hit of judgment in his eyes.

Jungkook half expected him to laugh at him, call him childish or tell him it was nothing instead Jimin's soft hands circled his middle, his cheek pressed to his back.

"You're so tense." He felt a kiss being pressed to his skin. "Do you not like the storm?"

Once again Jimin surprised him with the gentleness of it all. There was no sarcasm or judgment. Jungkook shook his head, not trusting his voice right then. Jimin was so soft. Unlike their first time in the bathroom, his touches were always soft when they were together. He treated him as if he was something precious and Jungkook was melting.

"Come on. I think you could use a drink."

Jungkook followed when Jimin grabbed his hand and led him to the couch before going to the bar. He observed the man going through his collection to choose one of his expensive bottles of scotch. He was mesmerized by the way Jimin moved. Every move was elegant and artistic. So graceful.

Jimin came over with two glasses full of ice. He filled their glasses and lifted one to him. Jungkook took it, grateful for the drink and calmer now the sounds were muffled. The gentle hum of the AC was all he heard. The distant sounds were barely noticeable.

He tossed back the drink in one go, wincing at the burn but he welcomed it. Jimin went to pour another drink but Jungkook stopped him, taking the bottle away to drink directly from it.

"Woah, easy there, Tiger." Jimin stopped him when he had taken two mouthfuls. Jungkook regretted glancing at Jimin then. His eyes were full of concern.

What would Jimin think? Did he think I'm weak?

Fuck.

Why am I like this?

"Come here." Jimin threw a leg behind him to sit sideways, facing him. He motioned Jungkook to turn around and he got the idea.

He turned around with a sigh, the bottle still clutched in his tight grip. Jimin gently pulled him back so his Jungkook's back was pressed to his warm chest. Jungkook dropped his head on Jimin's shoulder, relaxing when he felt Jimin's warm breath fanning his neck.

"Small sips, baby," he instructed and Jungkook followed. He brought the bottle to his lips taking small sips as Jimin continued to run his fingers over his chest, tracing the tattoos there. "Wanna talk about it?" Jimin asked after a while.

Jungkook hummed. He thought about it for a moment. Somehow talking to Jimin came easier. They were supposed to be enemies, but he never realized when the lines blurred and when he had begun seeing Jimin this way.

He hadn't thought twice before jumping in to save Jimin on that fateful night two years ago. Jimin could have very well ended him there, but Jungkook hadn't cared. If his father ever found out Jungkook wasted a golden opportunity to end Jimin, he'd kill him. But none of that was in Jungkook's mind then. He hadn't spoken about the incident to anyone. Not even to Namjoon or the others.

The attraction only seemed to grow and Jungkook struggled with it for years before Jimin made that move. That night only broke all the inhibitions he had before. However, he felt like Jimin was the only one who could empathize with him being in the same position as him. After all, he was grown in a similar environment and going through similar pressure.

"I used to be afraid of storms. Mom used to make me hot cocoa and stay with me in my bed all night reading stories."

The memories surfaced again and he found it harder to speak. A ball of emotion clogged in his throat. His mom with the most beautiful and kind smile. His mom who smelled like warm cinnamon rolls after a baking session in her kitchen.

"What did he do?" Jimin's voice pulled him out of his thoughts.

"I was six and he was furious that I peed in my trousers when he yelled at me in front of his men. That night, there was a storm and he found my mom comforting me again." He took a deep breath and sipped his drink directly from the bottle. Jimin's fingers gently massaged his skin. "She wasn't allowed to touch me you see. Emotions are for the weak."

"Feelings are toxic," Jimin completed the unspoken words.

"So he dragged me to the rooftop and threw me into the storm. All alone." He took a shuddering breath at the memory.

Jimin sucked in a sharp breath. His blunt nails dug into Jungkook's hip instinctively.

"I passed out," Jungkook continued. "I came down with a fever and never saw my mom again. Didn't know what he did to her or where he sent her. The next time the storm came he threw me out again. He did that until I wasn't afraid of the storms anymore." He breathed in again. "I learned to overcome my fear. If I stared them hard enough they won't hurt me. They won't catch me off guard. I was twelve when he stopped throwing me out."

Jimin kissed his shoulders then. His hand continued to caress his side. They were silent for a long time.

"Wanna hear my story?" Jimin broke the silence after a while.

"Yes." Jungkook licked his lips.

"A boy once defeated me in my Taekwondo class. He was sixteen and I was thirteen. He had years of experience and it was only a practice match. My dad decided to teach me a lesson by killing the pet rabbit I had."

Jungkook could sympathize with that. How many times has his father had did that to him? How many times had he destroyed the things he valued the most? He had learned to grow attached to anything as he grew older.

"That rabbit was so precious to me, you see. My mother gave it to me for my birthday. It was also the last gift I received from her. He knew how much it meant to me and still did it. So I had to send a message." Jimin's voice was cold. "You didn't ask what I did in return." His breath hit his neck and lips brushed over the skin there.

"What did you do?" he whispered with a shudder.

"I killed one of his henchmen. He was tall and buff, thrice my size and one of the skilled members my dad trusted the most." He chuckled darkly. "I did what he did to my rabbit. Gutted him in the exact same proportions he gutted my rabbit. Told him it'll be one of his top dogs the next time."

It was Jungkook's turn to suck in a sharp breath. Did he really do that? And his father let him? He knew how dangerous Jimin was and how ruthless he could be. He'd heard hundreds of stories about him, but hearing it from his mouth was something else.

"Wow. So did he learn his lesson?"

"No," Jimin said. "I was sixteen when I started taking solo missions. They were simple drug deals and one of the cunning dealers double crossed me." He took a deep breath and hooked his chin on Jungkook's shoulder. "We lost both money and the drugs."

Jungkook's breath hitched. Damn. That was a huge deal. If it was his father, he'd have skinned him alive. Not that he hasn't considered that before. His father was always looking for reasons to punish him. Fortunately, Yoongi and Namjoon were often able to pull him off his back. He shook his head to clear the thoughts.

"What did he do?"

Jimin pressed a kiss on his shoulder. "Something he shouldn't have done in the first place. He went for Taehyung."

Jungkook gasped and turned his head to fix his wide eyes on him. The position put a strain on his neck but he couldn't help it. He had to see his face.

Jimin's smile sent cold shivers down his spine. "He beat him up and when I came back, he was holding a gun to his head. Told me he will blast Tae's head if I didn't right the wrong."

"Fuck!" Jungkook cursed. "What did you do?"

"My dad didn't know how deep I was with the Bratva." Jimin began to draw random patterns on his skin again. "I took Viktor and a few men. Found the dealer. We busted right into his place and took all his men out. Retrieved the drugs and the lost money."

Viktor was the current leader of Bratva. He was a cold-hearted, arrogant bastard who commanded respect and fear when he entered a room. He was intimidating but a man of honor.

"When we came back, I killed his top dogs save for Tae's dad."

Jungkook's eyes widened further. If he were to see himself in a mirror it would be comical. He thought the consigliere and the others were killed in some gang scuffle couple of years ago. To learn that Jimin was the one who killed them was frightening.

"I fought him and he lost. I put my gun in his head and gave him a choice. He chose wisely." Jimin laughed again. "He stepped down and I became the leader of the Cobras."

"You became the leader at sixteen?"

Jimin hummed. "It's a fact known only to the upper level Cobras though and of course Viktor knew. I let my father have that because it was too shameful for him to admit that his own son killed his top dogs and took over everything from him in a blink of an eye. Losing in front of his men alone was enough to bruise his ego. He learned his lesson that day. Knew what will happen if he ever touched something precious to me. Something I value the most." He squeezed Jungkook's side. That includes you. Words were left unsaid but the implication was there. Jimin put his glass aside and wrapped his hands around him.

"H-He didn't retaliate?" Jungkook asked in awe.

"My dad might be cold bastard but he's a man of honor. He accepted his loss honorably and handed me the reign."

Jungkook thought about himself. He was still afraid of his father. Too afraid to his liking because he didn't want to lose the very few people he cared about. He didn't want a repeat of his mother.

"You aren't six anymore, Jungkookie. You aren't weak or defenseless. You're one of the strongest leaders of the underground crime world. You're a lethal motherfucker and you just have to show your father that he doesn't control you anymore."

Jungkook chuckled. "Remind me to never get on your bad side. Ever."

"You speak as if you aren't capable of doing what I did," Jimin scoffed. "I know how brutally you punish the traitors."

Jungkook chuckled and leaned against him. "Thanks for reminding me."

"You needed to hear that."

Jimin continued to caress his sides and Jungkook relaxed. "I think both of us being in a similar position and living in the same crime world makes it easier for me to talk to you. I feel like you understand me better."

"I can say the same," Jimin agreed.

Jungkook suddenly straightened up. "There is something I need to tell you."

He stood and put the bottle away before heading to the nightstand to grab his phone. His gun was placed beside it. Just then he realized how much trust Jimin had in him. He could kill Jimin if he wanted to. He went back to the couch as he scrolled through the phone.

"Here." He found the clip he was looking for and handed it to him.

Jimin took the phone and wordlessly watched the video. "It looks like me." He frowned as Jungkook took a seat beside him.

"Yes."

"But it's not me."

Jungkook sighed. "I know. That night we were busy fucking each other."

Jimin lifted a brow. "How long is this going on?"

"Quite some time." He ran a hand over his face and reclined, resting his head on the headrest.

"Is this why you confronted me that night?" Jimin put his phone down.

Jungkook nodded. "I had to know."

Jimin put a hand on his thigh. "I wouldn't do something like this."

Jungkook's gaze flicked to meet his, a smile finding its way to his lips at sincerity in his expression. "I know that now."

"Send this to me along with other things you have. I'll have Taehyung look into this," Jimin said. His features hardened before he masked it with a look of nonchalance.

"Okay."

"Come on. We should head to bed. We both have a long day tomorrow." Jimin stood to put their glasses away and headed to the ensuite bathroom.

He forwarded everything to Jimin's email and a few stuff through his messages. Jungkook checked the unread texts from his father and with a sigh shot a response to him before going to climb on the bed. He took the right, knowing Jimin preferred the left.

A few minutes later, the bed dipped and Jimin switched off the lights, immersing the room in utter darkness. He could barely hear the storm now. Soon, Jimin was pulling him back to his chest and Jungkook found himself relaxing. He shouldn't get used to this, but he couldn't help it.

When you long for acceptance and validation in a world like this, it was natural to lean toward the first source that radiated some sort of warmth. Jimin treated him like he mattered and it didn't help that he made him feel wanted.

Maybe it was because he admired Jimin for too long from far that his attention felt nice. Or maybe it was because every step he took with Jimin was an act of defiance against his father. Or perhaps it was just lust. He didn't bother to analyze which was which.

Did he mind that Jimin wanted to own him? No. Did he regret what he did? Never. Did he look forward to what this exclusive relationship would bring? Definitely yes.

Jungkook didn't know how long he lay awake, but he felt Jimin nuzzling into his nape, pressing a soft kiss before he drifted off to sleep for the first time in years on a stormy night.

***

When Taehyung reached Jimin's penthouse that morning, he was so ready to face the new challenge. Out of everything he expected life would throw at him, Jeon Jungkook was the least expected scenario. He wasn't ready.

As an adrenaline junkie, he sought out thrill and danger in day-to-day life. There was never a dull day in this life and it was a life that perfectly suited him. However, complications were something Taehyung despised. He preferred stuff that he could solve with some bullets or probably knives. Feelings were shit and got messier than bloody murder to sort out.

He sighed in defeat as he parked his car and went to the elevator. Once Jimin set his eyes on something, there was no stopping him. Even if was his rival.

He knew Jimin had a thing for the Dragon leader, but he never expected him to act on it. That night when he found Namjoon pacing tensely outside the restrooms he concluded that they had pulled some ugly plans. But once he found out, he wished Jimin had at least given him a warning.

His best friend had always been kind of reckless. When he wanted something, he went after it. The situation involving Jungkook wasn't any different. Only Taehyung knew Jimin was more serious than he let on. The fact that Jimin had sex with him for the second and third time alone spoke volumes.

Jimin wasn't someone who slept with the same person twice. In their world, every tiny weakness could be used against them at any given chance. Jimin was the most wanted by many, police and mafia alike. They'd pay a fortune to see him gone. What better than to play with one's weakness if not for a good lay or drugs. Jimin always steered clear of them.

So it was definitely a shock that he wanted to be exclusive with Jungkook. Taehyung just knew Jimin wasn't gonna let Jungkook go anytime soon. He would keep him as long as Jungkook let him.

He reached the penthouse, greeting the bodyguards outside, and entered the familiar code to the home. Only a few people had the code to the door. Others have to be let in by the head of security who was working with them for over a decade.

The chef excused himself once they have put the cooked dishes on the table. Taehyung nodded as he went to prepare some tea for himself while waiting for Jimin to wake up.

However, the day couldn't have gotten any worse because the doorbell rang and he had opened to door to come face to face with Jimin's dad. The man really had bad timing. He quickly left a text for Jimin saying his father was home. The former leader of the Cobras wasn't someone to take lightly.

The man in question went to the kitchen, leisurely pouring himself a cup of coffee, and occupied one of the empty chairs at the dining table, leaving the head side chair he once occupied with grace. He knew better not to mess with Jimin's things.

Taehyung hovered around. He was tense for entirely various reasons. Mr. Park didn't know Jungkook was here. He thought Jungkook was Jimin's toy or somehow Jimin was using him, but Taehyung knew otherwise.

Jimin was extremely possessive and asserted his dominance with everything he did. The chair at the dining table was one such example. Jimin would without hesitation put a bullet between someone's eyes if they dared to so much as touch his seat.

When the bedroom opened, Taehyung expected to see Jimin marching out, dressed for the day. But it was Jungkook who came out. He wore one of Jimin's shorts and a t-shirt that was a size bigger for Jimin. It fit Jungkook perfectly and hugged him tightly. He cursed internally and eyed Mr. Park who was sipping his coffee. Both haven't noticed the other's presence yet.

Jungkook caught Taehyung gaping at him, acknowledged his presence with a nod before heading to the kitchen only to pause briefly when he saw Mr. Park. But the moment lasted only for a few seconds because Jungkook soon relaxed.

"Good morning, Mr. Park," he greeted.

Mr. Park sputtered his coffee, his eyes bulging out. "What are you doing here?" His expression was comical and Taehyung suppressed the urge to laugh.

"Having breakfast?" Jungkook answered as he went to pour himself a mug of coffee, adding a lot of cream and sugar before taking a seat at the head side of the table.

Taehyung's heart plummeted to his stomach. Oh fuck. He did not just do that.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Mr. Park gritted out through clenched teeth. "My boy might be fucking you, but know your place, Jeon."

Taehyung swallowed thickly, feeling like a deer caught in headlights. What was he supposed to do? Tell Jungkook that Jimin would skin him alive if he caught him sitting on his chair or tell Mr. Park to not talk down on Jungkook because Jimin would have no qualms in boxing his ears if he caught wind of it.

"I'm where I belong," Jungkook replied smoothly as he filled his plate. He set out another plate for Jimin.

Taehyung choked on his saliva. However, before he could respond Jimin walked out dressed in all black once again. The top three buttons of his black button-up were open as usual. He had unbuttoned his cuffs and folded the sleeves to his elbows.

Oh no.

There was no time to warn Jungkook or Mr. Park now. Jimin had already seen them. The open concept of his home allowing a clear view of the kitchen from his bedroom door. However, what caught Taehyung by surprise was the soft smile that broke out on Jimin's lips when he saw Jungkook.

"Hey dad," he greeted, his eyes never leaving Jungkook even once. "What are you doing here?" he questioned cheerfully as he went to Jungkook, grabbing his chin to capture his lips in a wet kiss.

Mr. Park sputtered once again.

"I didn't know how you preferred your coffee," Jungkook said once Jimin pulled away.

Jimin ruffled his hair and patted his cheek. He went to the counter. "I like it black."

"Western or Korean?"

The chef had prepared both Western and Korean breakfast options since Jimin never made up his mind until he reached the dining table.

"Western."

"How do you like your toast?" Jungkook asked reaching for the toast.

"Plain and eggs scrambled."

Taehyung could only watch as Jimin poured himself a mug and strode back to Jungkook who pulled him onto his lap before pushing the plate to him. "I'm tempted to steal your chef," he mumbled, kissing Jimin's shoulders and nuzzling into his neck.

Jimin chuckled. "Taehyung can give you his contact. You might have to work out the timings though. He comes here thrice a day to cook for me."

Jungkook hummed. "Or you can simply have someone to bring me food every day or...I can move in with you and save us all that trouble."

When the hell did they grow so domestic?

Taehyung's mouth was agape as he stared at the scene in front of him mirroring Mr. Park.

"Sounds like a great idea." Jimin laughed. "I already told you what's mine are yours." Taehyung's eyes popped out of its socket as Jimin ruffled his hair once again. "I'll text you the code." He turned to fix his gaze at Mr. Park and bit into his toast. "What about you, Dad? You didn't tell me what you are here for?"

Mr. Park eyed them both. "Ah...I was just...um...wanted to talk about the Dragons."

"What about them?" Jungkook asked, swallowing around his spoon.

Mr. Park's gaze flicked to Jimin. "He's not just your boy toy, is he? What's the nature of your relationship?"

"We are exclusive," Jimin replied without missing a beat. "He's mine."

Jungkook fed a spoon of his bibimbap to Jimin, who opened his mouth to accept the food. Once again Taehyung was gobsmacked because Jimin only allowed that privilege only to him or Seokjin. Not even his father was allowed to do that. Not that Mr. Park tried anything of sorts. However, he did try to get close to his son over the years, but Jimin always kept him at an arm's length.

"We are also allies. Means we got each other's back," Jungkook added.

Mr. Park clenched his jaw. "Do you know what this entails?"

"More business," Jungkook responded. "And an upper hand as Asia's most powerful gang in the council against the Yakuza and the Triads."

Mr. Park scoffed but wisely kept his thoughts to himself. Taehyung watched as he finished his coffee and pushed the empty mug aside. He then looked at Jimin. "I see you have it all handled. I'll see myself out then."

Jimin just inclined his head and continued to eat his breakfast. Just as Mr. Park left, Seokjin arrived with Namjoon, Hoseok, and Yoongi in tow. Mr. Park grimaced, throwing a displeased look over his shoulder at Jimin, and left without another word.

It was when Namjoon came closer Taehyung noticed the bruise on the left side of his jaw. His lip was swollen and bleeding. Namjoon strode to the dining table, greeting Jimin and Jungkook. Before he could speak Jungkook spoke, "Who the fuck touched you?"

"Sungwon," he said, his face an impassive mask as he stood tall, his shoulders were squared. "Your father wanted to know your location."

Jungkook gritted his teeth. He put the spoon down and stared at the taller. "I texted him last night. I told him I'll go to meet him in my own time."

Namjoon scoffed, pushing a hand inside his pocket. "Since when did that stop him? He was going to pull the trigger before Hoseok stepped in."

Taehyung froze in his spot. He saw Jimin visibly tensing. The scene wasn't new. It brought him old memories. It was how he knew Jimin would kill anyone who dare to touch him even if it was his own father.

Jungkook was fuming visibly at this point. His fist clenched. "Kill him."

In his lap, Jimin stiffened, his hand tightening around the coffee mug. He could almost see the wheels in Jimin's head turning. Taehyung's eyes darted between Jungkook and Namjoon. Yoongi and Hoseok looked equally surprised while Seokjin sported a nonchalant look. He could feel a headache starting at the base of the skull because this meant the Cobras would somehow be dragged into the mess as well, considering what Jungkook meant to Jimin.

Oh fuck. Just how much did he have to put up with? He wasn't ready for this.

Namjoon's brow shot up to his hairline and his eyes widened. "What?"

"Kill Ha Sungwon." Jungkook picked his spoon again and continued to eat as Jimin smirked. "Treat him as you would treat a traitor."

Jimin's hold on the mug loosened and a smile spread on his lips. Ah right.

"Are you sure?" Namjoon tilted his head to the side.

"I'm already two years late. It's time he learned his place. He should have known better than to touch my second-in-command," Jungkook gritted out. "I'm not letting that slide."

Namjoon squared his shoulders and his lips set in a thin line. He regarded his boss for a long moment before a smile broke out. Unlike the casual dimpled smile, this was bone-chilling and Taehyung could finally see the lethal man everyone feared in the underground.

He shared a look with the others before changing the topic. "I brought the files you requested and a change of clothes. The drugs are ready and can be moved as soon as we get clearance from the Cobras."

"Seokjin will handle that first in the morning," Jimin responded as he finished his breakfast. "Take a seat and make yourself home." He gestured to the others and turned to Taehyung. "Get my car ready and add Jungkook to my guest list. I'll be down in fifteen."

Taehyung nodded curtly and hurried outside. The drugs were usually transported under the guise of their pharmaceutical division. They were elated to learn Jungkook's company produced some advanced version that could pass as medicinal drugs under broad daylight. Their latest addition of skin patches was mind-blowing.

Deep down he was really glad Jimin pulled this off because, with their increasing demand in the international market, this worked in their favor. Now they could produce triple the quantity with the additional facilities and therefore more than capable of meeting their client demand.

He quickly went to the security office on the ground floor to add Jungkook to the approved guest list and then to the car. The bodyguard in charge for the day nodded once. Taehyung did a quick sweep of the vehicle out of habit and scanned the parking lot looking for anything abnormal.

Fifteen minutes later when Jimin joined him in the back seat of the car, he put up the glass partition between them and the driver's seat.

"When did this happen?" he fired the questions immediately. "I can see Jungkook belonging to you but to what extent? Are we discussing mafia business in front of him now? What if he intended to bring you down? And giving him the code to your home. What were you thinking?"

Jimin scratched his nose. "He passed my tests. I trust him."

Taehyung scoffed. "You don't trust anyone, Park Jimin. Trust is earned and as far as I know, Jeon Jungkook hasn't given us anything to trust him."

Jimin's sharp gaze cut to him and Taehyung held his ground. He was the only person allowed to call Jimin out on his bullshit and this wasn't the first time they were in this situation. It wouldn't be the last. He could understand Jimin wanting Jungkook. That man was one fine specimen. But this...he didn't understand.

He leaned in his seat and unbuttoned his suit jacket. "Do you remember the ambush in one of the old clubs near Gwanju?"

"That was almost two years ago." Taehyung frowned. What did that have to do with this?

"I never told you that Jungkook was there."

"What the—" Taehyung growled. "Why is he still alive? Why haven't you killed him yet?" He clenched his fists.

Jimin smiled, patting his knee. "I didn't say he was the one behind the ambush." He looked amused but Taehyung wasn't. "He saved my ass that night."

"What?" He was confused now. "Why would he save you?"

"Same reason that I'd save him."

"You both are insane."

Jimin shrugged again.

"Stop doing that," Taehyung hissed. "He could have orchestrated the hit. What was he even doing there?"

Jimin sported the same smile. "Taehyungie...you don't think I think with my dick, do you?" he chuckled. "It was the Black Mamba. Kang wanted to get back at me for their leader's death."

Taehyung shook his head. "It was the Dragon's territory. They were working briefly with the Triads on a deal. You were there to spy on the Triads. How did the Black Mambas even get there?"

Jimin sighed. "I was there because I got news from a trusting source that Triads were in bed with the Black Mambas," he explained. "That night, however, my source was compromised and they'd known I was going to be there. I walked into their trap. Got shot with no way out."

He looked outside as Taehyung recalled the memory. That wasn't what Jimin told him then.

"I was surrounded and there was no escape. I was out of bullets and losing blood at an alarming rate." He crossed his leg. "Then Jungkook appeared out of nowhere and pulled me out of that hell hole. He killed everyone, gave me his gun, and left me in that alley once he was sure that I wasn't going to die."

Taehyung clenched his jaw. "I don't like it when you keep things from me. You made me believe you made it out by yourself."

"The Triads want us gone so they can extend their business here. They're constantly butting heads with Bratva and they don't like that we are allies. Now it has become their necessity to get rid of me because of my position in the crime syndicate council," he continued.

"What about Jungkook?" he asked. "Where does he fit in all this?"

"He's a pawn. They need a scapegoat to take the blame when the Cobras fall." He scoffed. "What's better than to use our ongoing rivalry to their advantage? My father was so blinded by rage that he was constantly warring with the Dragons instead of finding the truth behind our mother's death."

Taehyung's throat tightened. Jimin wasn't the only one who lost his mother that day. Both their mothers were together when it happened. Everything happened in a blink of an eye. One moment they were meeting in the restaurant for their weekly luncheon and the next bullets were raining on them.

He remembered his mother's painful gasp as blood splattered on him. The next thing he knew the men were aiming at Jimin who was already on the floor crying over his mother. Taehyung hadn't thought twice before jumping in front of him and taking the bullet meant for his best friend. He still remembered the searing pain he felt on his shoulder as he fell down.

Vaguely, he remembered Jimin kicking off the table to cover them and then dragging his bloody form through the mass of bodies and debris. Gunshots echoed all around them and his last memory was of a cleaning closet and Jimin's frantic cry for him to stay awake. From there they only had each other to rely on.

In their line of work, their enemies went for their loved ones first. Both their mothers weren't involved in any of the mafia business, but it was they who paid the price for their father's sins with their lives. It was one of the reasons they never got involved in any relationships.

Taehyung hadn't realized that he was clenching his fist when Jimin's palm covered his fist. "I didn't want you to worry. Besides, at that time I wasn't sure if the Dragons were involved or not," Jimin said. "Speaking of which..." He pulled his phone out and thrust it into his hand. "Go to my messaging app and email. Check my latest conversation with Jungkook. They're planning something again. It's still unclear who is behind this but this isn't good."

Taehyung unlocked his phone, doing exactly the same. His blood boiled when he found the photos and videos in question. "Bastards."

"The Dragons think we are snitching on them and trying to overtake their business. That was why Jungkook decided to confront me that night at the party."

"But you both ended up fucking," Taehyung scoffed. "For someone who doesn't think with his dick, your dick is surely doing a lot of work."

Jimin chuckled. "What can I say? I'm a weak man."

Jungkook was in no way a damsel in distress. He was as lethal as Jimin. He might become Jimin's weakness but he wouldn't be helpless like their mothers were. Jimin wrapped an arm around his shoulder as if sensing his mood and he relaxed. "Right. Just say you're whipped and go."

Jimin's smile widened. "Maybe."

"So...I wanted to ask. This issue with the Dragon's former leader, are you going to intervene? Why haven't you said something yet?"

Jimin smiled. "Jungkook is capable of handling it himself," he said as he looked outside the window. "From where I stand, it's a matter of respect and honor. His father had done enough damage to his reputation as a leader already. What good does it bring if I step in? Respect is earned and I cannot do that for him."

Taehyung nodded understandingly. "So we are minding our own business."

"Mostly," Jimin said fleetingly. "As long as Jungkook isn't in any immediate danger."

***

Namjoon stared at Jungkook for a long time after Jimin left. They were alone in the penthouse and he couldn't believe what was happening.

"He left just like that?" he asked pointing at the door.

Jungkook shrugged. "There are cameras everywhere except the bathroom if you haven't noticed. It's connected to his phone." He continued to eat, helping himself to another serving. "Pack my bag for a week or two. I'll be staying here for some time."

This time Namjoon's jaw hit the floor. First, it was the thing with Sungwon and now he was moving in. Never in his life had he expected Jungkook to make a move against his father. It wasn't a secret that Jungkook's father wasn't ready to give control to his son, but when he learned what the Cobras were going to announce Jimin as their leader, he felt pressured and decided to push Jungkook into the seat.

The old man still kept an iron grip on every single transaction they made. Though Jungkook had a free reign over a few things, his father was the one still in control. Jungkook's action of signing a business deal with the Cobras alone was enough to stir the fire. When he killed Sungwon, it'll start a cold war. It would clearly send a message to his father.

Just a short time with Jimin and Jungkook was already fighting back. He saw the anger in Jungkook's eyes, remembering everything his father put him through over the years.

"What is your relationship with Jimin?" he asked. He wanted to know what they were getting into. This didn't seem like a short fling anymore. He'd never seen Jungkook getting serious with just anyone. The man barely let anyone closer. He could count the number of hookups Jungkook had using his hands.

"We're exclusive and allies in business. That's what we tell others," Jungkook replied, pushing the empty plate aside. "Between us, he's my Dom and my partner in every aspect, if that makes any sense."

What the—

Namjoon knew what it meant. Jungkook, a sub? Beside him, Hoseok and Yoongi stood in stunned silence.

"I need coffee," Yoongi was the first to break the silence. He went to grab a mug and poured himself some. Hoseok followed suit.

Namjoon sighed. "So, this is serious," he said. "It'll take a while to get used to..." He waved around.

"Certainly, not what I expected. But I can already imagine how your dad will react." Hoseok chuckled.

They never liked senior Jeon. He was old-school and believed that violence solved everything. But Namjoon's mind was reeling. "Acting against your dad isn't an impulsive action," he stated. "What is in your mind? Why now?"

Jungkook smiled, wiping his mouth with a napkin as he sipped his coffee. "Do you remember what happened last night?"

Namjoon stared at him as Hoseok and Yoongi shifted in the back.

"It was raining," Jungkook continued without waiting for his answer and Namjoon realized where this was going. "And it made me realize a few things. I don't like the power he still has over me. He just uses me as his punching bag just to show everyone that he is still in power though the seat doesn't belong to him anymore."

Namjoon knew this. He started working for the Dragons at fifteen. He'd seen and heard things he shouldn't have. He knew how Jungkook's father had tortured him over the years. He was there when Jungkook, as a teenager was left to fend for his injuries inflicted by his father. They weren't allowed to touch him. They weren't allowed to offer comfort or even help.

Once he locked him in a room without food or water for two weeks just because Jungkook couldn't kill someone. Jungkook hadn't reacted to that but Namjoon, Hoseok, and Yoongi had acted. During the time they worked for him, they'd grown attached to the young boy. So they'd snuck food and water into the room, tended to his injuries thereby showing their loyalty to him.

Among them, Hoseok was the only one who showed any sort of physical affection. He had engulfed Jungkook into his arms when he saw Jungkook's condition. The boy was shivering with a high fever. And for the first time, Namjoon witnessed Jungkook breaking down. They've come a long way.

He knew his boss too well. Jungkook might hide it well, but underneath that hard exterior, he was just a boy who still longed for a mother who was forcefully taken away from him as a child. His boss might not show it but Namjoon never missed how pliant Jungkook became whenever Hoseok hugged him.

He later learned what happened with Jungkook's mother and why she was sent away. He also knew how much Jungkook loved and appreciated any form of affection. After seeing the way Jimin behaved with Jungkook, he could guess why his boss was stuck to Jimin like glue.

After Taehyung left Jimin had kissed Jungkook again and murmured something into his ear before leaving. He suspected Jimin's intentions with him yet he couldn't come up with a valid reason to argue why this was a disaster. They were both driven by lust but their actions said there was more than that. He was wise enough to know that discussion wouldn't go well. Namjoon wondered if they themselves understood any of this.

"Is that all? Are you sure Jimin has nothing to do with this?" Namjoon pushed.

Jungkook was still young. He was in power only for two years but hasn't expressed a thought of rebelling. But this was too much to consider a coincidence.

Jungkook leveled him with a glare but rolled his eyes in the end. "He might have said some things that led me to reevaluate everything. But it mostly stemmed from my personal need of not wanting to step into that boxing ring ever again." He curled his fists. "It's humiliating when he does it in front of people who are supposed to be my subordinates."

"It's because of that sorry reason of your father," Hoseok growled. "What he's doing to you is shameful and he knows how this is all reflecting among the gang members."

"They should fear me, hyung. Instead, I can't even meet them in the eye for days after I get out of that boxing ring."

"What did Jimin tell you?" Namjoon asked.

Jungkook was silent for a moment, then took a deep breath. There were no secrets between the four of them. At least not that he knew of. "He told me how he became the leader of the Cobras at sixteen."

When Jungkook's gaze flicked to his face, understanding dawned in Namjoon. His brain did a quick math and his eyes widened considerably. "It was the same time when the top dogs of Cobra were killed."

"Jimin killed them."

"What?" Three voices in the room asked in unison and everyone looked equally surprised.

Jungkook shrugged. "I don't know if I can go into the details, but he said his father threatened Taehyung and...at least I'm not going for the top dogs yet."

Wow.

Namjoon understood. Mr. Park threatened Taehyung and Jimin's response was to kill his top dogs and taking the leadership from him. Now Mr. Jeon threatened Namjoon and Jungkook wanted the same. Except Jungkook was already the leader. He was touched that Jungkook would even consider something like that because his father threatened him.

"What's your plan?" Hoseok asked.

Jungkook shrugged. "For now it's simple. I'm not getting into that boxing ring and I'm not gonna show up at his office every time he calls me."

Namjoon straightened in his seat. "You know I'm all for anything you want. I'll have your back even if the entire world is against us and we are only the last men standing," he stated sincerely, staring into Jungkook's eyes so he got the message. "Killing Ha Sungwon will send a message. It'll start a cold war inside the gang," he continued in the same tone. "I'm not afraid to face it with you, but I thought it has to be said out loud before we do something."

"Your father will be pissed. It's a direct threat to his authority and he will try to divide the gang," Yoongi said. "I'm with you though." He sipped his coffee with the same nonchalance. "Anyone who comes for you will have to go through me."

"I'm a softie, but for what it's worth count me in," Hoseok announced.

"Don't worry. I'll keep your ass safe," Yoongi snickered.

Hoseok huffed. "As you should. I do an excellent job in cleaning up after your messy asses so no cop comes knocking at our door. I'm invaluable."

"That's settled then. Mr. Jeon can be unreasonable and we don't know how he will react." He looked around. "It's good that you'll stay away for a while," Namjoon said.

Jungkook chuckled. "Touching me will be a huge mistake, hyung. He's lucky Jimin hyung didn't go after him when he saw my bruises yesterday." There was a certain glint in his eyes this time.

Namjoon cursed internally. He should have seen this coming. It would be a fucking war if Jimin intervened. Taehyung and Seokjin's warning replayed in his mind. Jimin was his dom. Taehyung said Jimin would want to own Jungkook.

"He asked me if I want to extend the nature of our relationship outside of our bedroom and I agreed," Jungkook said as if sensing the wheels turning in his head.

"I still don't know how I feel about that," Hoseok murmured. "Does he treat you well?" The ever concerned voice of the group asked.

"Yes," Jungkook whispered with a relaxed smile. "He's the best. I know it sounds absurd and sudden but he makes me feel something I haven't felt since I was six years old."

"And what is that?" Hoseok asked puzzled.

"Safe," Jungkook's voice was barely a whisper. "He makes me feel safe, hyung."

***

Jungkook wasn't the least bit surprised when his father showed up at one of the production facilities he was inspecting at the moment. The equipment was top-notch and fully functional. They could replace the quantity of drugs he sold in just three weeks. Jimin had more buyers lined up than he could handle and Jungkook was excited at the prospect.

"You answered none of my calls or texts yesterday."

Jungkook didn't turn around. Beside him Yoongi shifted from one foot to the other, his eagle eyes fixated on his father and hands clasped behind his back. Jungkook knew the older had his gun hidden there and wouldn't hesitate to pull out if needed.

"I was busy."

His father scoffed but he could feel the anger radiating off him as he kept his eyes glued to the file in his hand. The numbers blurred from his vision and he clenched his jaw.

"Too busy that you lost another buyer," he barked. "You think you can escape the punishment by hiding?"

Jungkook turned around casually. "If you haven't noticed, Changs came back and I doubled the prices. Also, I found another buyer and sold out three warehouses." He waved around them. "And if you'll excuse me, I already have orders to produce the same quantity in less than three weeks."

His father gritted his teeth having not expected this. But he wasn't the one to give up. "Where were you last night?"

"I was busy."

"Doing what?"

Jungkook cocked a brow. "Business."

"With whom?"

He could see his father losing his patience and Jungkook decided he will add more fuel to the fire. "None of your business."

Just as his father opened his mouth to retort, one of his minions came for him with a look of urgency. Jungkook's phone dinged and he knew exactly what news it was. Yoongi moved in front of him and his father's face was one of fury.

"Hope you liked my present," Jungkook said with a smirk.

His father lunged at him only to be stopped by Yoongi's gun that now pressed into his chest. His face was red and the veins in his neck popped out so much that Jungkook thought it was going to burst. Yoongi's shoulders were stiff, fingers ready to pull the trigger. The men around him were so stunned to even react. They stood bewildered as if debating whose side to take.

Jungkook stepped around Yoongi to stand beside him, hands pushed inside his pocket. "I told you I was busy, didn't I?" he asked nonchalantly. "Yet you have to go and put your gun on Namjoon's head. You're fucking fortunate he is breathing; else it would have been your head instead of Sungwon."

"You—"

"It's time for you to properly retire."

"You'll regret this," his father snarled.

Jungkook fixed him with a glare. "The only thing I regret is letting your shit go as long as it did. I just wanted to be a good son. Guess it isn't enough."

His father clenched and unclenched his fists. His gaze flicked to Yoongi with so much hatred that if looks could kill Yoongi would be dead by now. Yoongi stance didn't waver even for a moment.

His father stepped back. "You started something you shouldn't have. Two years in business and you suddenly think you know it all. That you can handle everything. I'll show you."

"With all due respect, sir, you're no longer our leader. You stepped down from the position two years ago, willingly nominating Jungkook as your successor," Yoongi intervened. "He's also a respectable member of the International Crime Syndicate council, if I may add."

"Then tell me, was it you who suggested that to him? Kill his own gang member?" He pointed a finger at Jungkook.

"I'm his advisor, but whatever decisions he takes as the leader of the Dragons are his own. Ha Sungwon signed his death warrant by touching our second-in-command."

"He was acting under my order," he growled.

Yoongi shrugged. "Gives me enough reason to pull this trigger right now for conspiring against your leader," he spat. "He might be your son, but it's a breach of code. It's within his rights as a leader to punish the member who violated the code of conduct as he sees fit."

Jungkook smirked, knowing his father had no comeback for that. He wanted to kiss Yoongi right then, but knew it was such a bad idea. The man hated any sort of skinship. Hoseok was the only one who could get away with that shit.

"It was his decision to step into that boxing ring to accept your punishment and we did not intervene to respect his wishes. However, your actions this morning were unwarranted and our leader did what he thought was necessary. Please leave."

Joy exploded in his chest upon seeing the defeated look on his father's face despite not wanting to give up. But he had no choice. Yoongi didn't lower his gun or relax his position. He could still see the indecision on the faces of his father's men. However, they knew it wouldn't end well for them if they made a move.

Tension gripped the atmosphere. After what felt like hours but only ten minutes of intense staring later, his father pivoted on his heel and left. Only then Yoongi relaxed his posture. Still, he didn't pocket his gun.

"You have to be more careful now," he said. "I don't trust him to let this go."

"We already established that," Jungkook replied. "Keep an eye on him. Watch his every move." He ran a hand through his hair. "I'll be ready when he strikes."

Hello peeps, hope you're all good.

If you had been following my Twitter, you'd have known that I was MIA because of my Masters exam. I got one more tomorrow, then I'll have to catch up with the back log of work caused by my exams.

Update will take a week at least.So enjoy this one!

P.S: A lovely reader said they have a grave already dug and ready for Jungkook's dad. Adknvaknvakdnvl. I laughed so hard. Ha ha...Keep it coming folks. I love reading your comments.

Jimin's penthouse: