Read this first: Please note that I know nothing deep about how FBI works. I've done a bit of research and played around it to give this fic a dramatic flair. So, please excuse the mistakes in any form.

Jimin is 4 years older than Jungkook in this fic for the sake of the plot. He's twenty-eight. Ages of the characters are as follows:

• Jungkook – Twenty-four, professional gamer
• Jimin – Twenty-eight, FBI special agent
• Taehyung – Twenty-eight, FBI special agent
• Hoseok – Thirty, FBI special agent
• Namjoon – Thirty, Tech-geek, works for one of the top corporates in Korea
• Yoongi – Thirty, FBI special agent
• Seokjin – Thirty-one, FBI special agent in charge

Jimin and Taehyung are partners mostly dealing with undercover missions related to organized crimes. Hoseok and Yoongi are partners mostly dealing with cases related to cybercrime.

TW: Mild sexual assault and murder in this chapter.

Please read tags:

New York, the city that never sleeps or the Big Apple as many called it, definitely lived up to its name. There was never a dull moment. Even at this time of the night on a weekday, the park was filled with people and their pets.

He'd seen the park from his car while moving into the neighborhood two days ago. It looked even better at night. The park itself was small, not even a block long. It was located at the center of the community.

Jungkook pushed his hands deeper into his jacket pockets; his mask and bucket hat covering most of his face. He strode to one of the corner benches that overlooked the park. The chilly wind of early autumn rustled his hair when he removed the hat briefly to ruffle his hair. The weather was pleasant for this time of the year.

His phone rang, pulling his attention from his surroundings. A grin broke into his face when he saw his mom's contact photo flash on his screen. He swiped a thumb across the screen swiftly pressing it to his ear. "Mom."

"Jungkookie..." He could feel her relief flood through the line. "All good? How is your new place?"

"This place is so good, mom. I like it here." His voice rang with a yearning, but his tense shoulders relaxed involuntarily. No matter how many times he spoke to her in a day, he always missed her.

"Good. Good. Aunt A-Yeong is coming home for a week with your cousins. I won't be able to talk much. She doesn't...you know..."

"I know, mom. Is hyung coming too?" Jungkook felt the familiar pang in his chest.

Aunt A-Yeong was his father's only sister. They lived in Daegu and visited for special occasions. This year would mark his third year of missing Chuseok. He missed his cousins. They were younger than him and adored him so much. It was so much fun with all of his family members spending time together. He reigned in his thoughts. No point in going there now.

"No. He'd rather come and visit you." She chuckled and Jungkook felt the warmth spread in his chest.

Kim Namjoon was his half-brother. His mother was married to Namjoon's father first. After he died in an unfortunate accident, his mother had married Jungkook's father. Namjoon was six-years-old when Jungkook was born. The brothers, however, had been close and Namjoon would go to any extent to protect Jungkook. He was also very close to Jungkook's father.

"I miss him, mom. It's been a while since he visited." He pouted.

Namjoon usually visited him every month, but this time it was over three months. He had said it was because of an important project however, that has never stopped his brother before. They still talked every day. And Jungkook dearly missed him.

"I know, sweetie. Just hang in there, okay? The last time I spoke to him he said he was in touch with his friend in the FBI. They went to university together. I'm sure something good will come out of it."

Jungkook sighed with a nod though she can't see it. "I believe you, mom."

"Okay, sweetie. I gotta go. Take care of yourself and eat on time."

"I will, mom."

The call ended and he exhaled louder. He missed his family so dearly, especially his mom's home-cooked meals. It felt like ages since he had anything made at home. He hadn't seen her in person in nearly three years. He pushed the phone back into his pocket and leaned on the bench with a hand resting on the backrest.

His body ached with the effort of going through his stuff and sorting it out. Moving was a pain in the ass. Though this was the sixth time he was moving apartments, it never got any easier. With his game room finally set up, he stepped out for a bit of fresh air. A deep breath relaxed him. It felt good to step out of the apartment for once. The gaming room and the walls of his new home were suffocating. Mostly because the surroundings were unfamiliar.

It'd take a while for him to get used to this place. His neighborhood was nice. Crowded yet sophisticated. His recently renovated building had advanced security systems. At least that's what his real estate broker guaranteed. He didn't have much time before he moved in and so far he was okay with the place. This time he didn't have Namjoon scout for him. His security team advised that it was better if he moved into a community that drew less attention, unlike the previous apartments he used to stay.

Joyful squeals of children and dog barks reached his ears. Two golden retrievers were chasing after children, drawing out more squeals. Their golden fur glowed under the lights. He stared simply at the happy families, a few lovers lost in their own world and few loners lost in their thoughts or phones. Here, maybe, he could blend in.

He hadn't even realized when he started crying. It was too much. The scenes in front of him brought back memories. Memories of his friends and family. Memories of a life he had back in his country. As much as it hurt, those were all he was left with.

Memories.

Jungkook felt lonelier than ever. That feeling like an unforgiving cold during the winter spread in his chest and squeezed his heart. It worsened his anxiety.

When did his life become like this?

Jungkook once had a very active social life. Like any other youngster, he loved to party. He was celebrated in his social circle. Life in Seoul had been great ever since he moved there to live with his brother as a teenager. It had opened new doors and opportunities. He went on to become a professional gamer at the age of sixteen. From there, he knew only winning.

As the Golden boy of the Korean National Team and with three world championships under his belt, he was unstoppable. But like every good thing has to come to an end, he was forced to leave Seoul and everything he loved. As a person who was sheltered from the world by his lovely family, he still struggled to adapt to this life. A lone tear trekked down his cheek and he quickly brushed it off.

Jungkook came from a middle-class family. His father worked as an accountant at a local seafood exporting company. His mother was a stay at home wife. It was when Namjoon had a breakthrough in his career with one of his breakthrough research project, their family came into money. But Jungkook's parents never let that go into his head. A year later when Jungkook became a professional gamer, life had taken a one-eighty-degree turn for them.

He missed his life back home. New York could never compare. Sure there were a lot of things to do here when compared to Seoul but life had been happier back home. In New York, he only had himself to rely on. His brother Namjoon visited him often. That was the only time he felt like he was home.

He closed his eyes and tried to pretend everything was fine. When he opened his eyes, he'd be back to reality but for now, he'll pretend. He soaked in the joyful sounds and the busy buzz around him. Not much later, his phone buzzed in his pocket. A reminder to head back.

Was it an hour already?

Jungkook stood with a loud exhale. One hour was still a luxury. He could never stay out for too long. The only luxury he allowed himself to have because of his current predicament.

In his peripheral vision, he noticed the private security tailing him dutifully. Jungkook was feeling edgy all day. Perhaps, it was the ESL. It was one of the biggest e-sports events in New York. He hadn't been in public in a while. It would also mark the last e-sports event he attended this year.

While he was exhilarated to be back in his element, the thought of being in the crowd sent his nerves haywire. Unlike Seoul, he didn't have his brother to hold his hand, or pat his back or hug him to tell him it was gonna be okay. He was alone. He didn't even know the names of his security team.

Once again, Jungkook wasn't always like this. He once used to love the crowd, lived for their cheers, but now he could do that only within the walls of his home, through his live streams. He didn't go out unless it was extremely necessary to do so. So, the ESL next week would mark one of the five events he attended this year. Meeting his teammates again was the only thing he looked forward to.

Fuck. October is just one week away. Time just flew by and Jungkook barely remembered anything memorable he did during the last three years. The gaming events and a few outings with his teammates did not count.

Someone sneezed as he walked past the dumpster and he jumped back, startled by the sudden sound. Before the action could even register in his mind he felt a hand at his lower back, gently guiding him through the narrow streets.

This was what his life was reduced to. Living in fear—day in and day out. All because of one person. The one obsessed fan who thought Jungkook was theirs to have. He didn't want his stalker to find out where he was again. So he did his best to stay inside and avoid the public at all costs.

A cold shiver ran through his spine at the thought. They had been trying for years to identify this person. He had no clue how they were able to slip through the clutches of the police or the private detective agencies his brother hired for him. They found him every fucking time.

Relief flooded him at the sight of his apartment building. Jungkook didn't realize he was shaking until he was within the safety of his building. His steps were hurried as he rushed to the elevator and pressed the button to his floor. The moment he exited the elevator, his gaze scanned his surroundings nervously and relaxed when he saw nothing. He quickly bid goodbye to his security and stepped inside his apartment, locking and bolting the door. His home security system beeped once and he eyed the cameras around the corners of his apartment.

Jungkook didn't like being watched, but he had no option. It was necessary for his protection. It was that or to hire someone to live with him all the time. He had agreed to the cameras to ensure he had at least a bit of privacy inside his own home. He dragged his feet to his gaming room, his only place of comfort, the only place he could communicate with the outside world without having to constantly watch his back.

He pulled his phone out hesitating for a moment before sending a tweet, stating he was about to start a live stream, and smiled when the comments started pouring in. His safe place.

But was it really?

The stalker was watching. How long before they found him again? How long before the strange phone calls and unwanted gifts starts popping in? He dreaded every moment he used the phone.

Jungkook schooled his features. He was afraid of reading comments. There was one time the stalker left a comment and he nearly had an anxiety attack, ending the stream abruptly. But he kept his façade not wanting to appear weak. He pulled the hoodie over his head, as usual, only his nose and mouth showing. The viewers were pouring in, clocking a whopping ten million in just three minutes.

"Hello," he greeted, feeling proud that his voice didn't waver. He silently watched the comments section blowing and slowly relaxed. He was in his home, the windows and doors were locked. His home was monitored and he was safe.

"I'm fine. Hope you had a good day wherever you are," Jungkook replied to the comments asking how he was doing. His breathing came with ease now.

"What do you want me to play today?"

The suggestions kept pouring. "GTA? I haven't played that in ages," he mumbled as he scrolled through the comments. "Counter-Strike...hmm... That's a nice choice too. Minecraft? I've been playing that for the past few streams."

He chuckled at one of the funniest comments. "Oh yeah, I'll be at ESL. Can't wait to meet you all."

With that, he straightened in his seat. "I think I'll go with GTA today. It's been a while and I have so many memories with this game." He opened the game, his heart feeling lighter and a brilliant smile stretching his lips when the Rockstar Games logo lit his screen.

He remembered receiving his first game as a Christmas gift from his father. How he helped him set up and then taught him to play afterward. This was all he'd ever known and wanted.

Here he could forget everything for a moment and pretend all was fine. So that was what he did. Soon, he was lost to the game, recalling some of the memories and fun moments for his viewers as he played.

***

"That was absolutely fantastic!"

Mark clapped his back with a huge grin and hoisted his beer mug in the air as he did a little victory dance. Jungkook threw his head back laughing earnestly at his teammate's delight. They'd been playing in the same team for years now. He was one of his friends.

"I live for these moments, man." Chan plopped at the edge of the L-shaped couch, waving over the waiter.

"You lived up to your reputation, Jungkook." Lee slid beside him on the couch.

As expected their team bagged another victory. The entire game left Jungkook in such high spirits that he felt happiness pumping through his veins.

"The opposite team put up a great fight. They've improved a lot," Nate said from the other side.

After the games, they had headed to the nearest club to celebrate their win. Their entire team was here. Jungkook wanted to say no and head home, but he couldn't refuse when the others complained that he rarely hung out with them anymore and they'll be heading home soon. Jungkook had given in because he once again felt normal in their presence. All his worries faded away for a moment.

They all knew about his issue and kept an eye out for him whenever they were together. The security was excellent tonight so they didn't have much to fear. He tuned out their conversation when it turned to the girls and sex. Not that Jungkook was against it, he simply wasn't interested. He was in the club after so long, so he just enjoyed the music and alcohol.

An hour or two had passed since he arrived and Jungkook had no idea when he ended up on the dancefloor. He was slightly tipsy but it felt liberating. The music was great. The beat had every cell of his body come alive and wanting to get lost in it. And that's what he did. Just closing his eyes and losing himself to the music with no care.

It wasn't until he felt a pair of hands on his hips he stopped. He threw a glance over his shoulder, noticing a stranger smiling suggestively. The guy had to be older than him, looked like he was in his early thirties. He was at least five inches taller than him with a great build.

"You move like a wet dream," the guy stated shamelessly, his words slightly slurring and his eyes sizing him up.

Jungkook sighed, stepping away from his hands, not responding to him as he tried to leave the dance floor only to be stopped by the stranger.

"Playing hard to get, huh?" The guy's grip was tight in his hand.

Jungkook turned with a scowl. "Let go."

"Aww...feisty." The man chuckled. "I'd love taming you."

Jungkook wretched his hand free of his hold. "Not interested."

He didn't wait for the guy to respond. He spun on his heel, heading toward the restrooms, ready to call it a night. Once upon a time, he might have considered entertaining the guy a little just for the fun of it. He was definitely not his type though. This guy looked intimidating and stirred everything unpleasant from the pit of his stomach. Jungkook didn't know what it was but he just had this aura on him that screamed at him to stay away.

While using the toilet he texted his driver to bring the car and then his security. When he stepped out of the cubicle, he froze because the same guy was leaning over the sink.

"So eager, are we?" The smug smirk on his face only irritated the young gamer.

Some people cannot take no for an answer. Jungkook lifted a brow. He contemplated for a moment before going to the sink, washing his hands clean. This was a public place. No one would attack him here, right? Besides, it was just one person. He was used to flirts. He could handle this one.

"I told you I'm not interested."

The stranger didn't move. He was just watching him intently. Jungkook squirmed under his gaze, wanting to get out of the place. He didn't notice it earlier, but up close, the smell of alcohol and cigarettes clouded his senses, causing him to scrunch his nose in distaste.

The man blocked his path when he stepped toward the door. "Not that fast, sweetheart. You can't just tease me and get away that easily."

"I wasn't teasing you." Jungkook gritted through his teeth.

"Ah, come on. You think I don't know your type. You guys look all sweet and innocent, begging for all the attention but when someone pays attention, you just act high and mighty. Why did you come here then if you don't want this?" He stepped closer and Jungkook took a step back.

"Move," he was glad his voice was still steady. Why the fuck no one was here now? He eyed the door. "I was only using the toilet like any normal person would. Now move." He stressed the last two words, making it clear that he wasn't playing around.

But the stranger clucked his tongue, ignoring his words and Jungkook felt fear for the first time that night. What if this was his stalker? His entire body went rigid at the mere thought. How could he be so careless?

His eyes stung. It was just one night. He just wanted to get away. Was that too much to ask? Where the heck was his security? He took several steps back unconsciously. That must have spurred something in the other man because he was lunging forward, his lips crashing over Jungkook's forcefully.

Jungkook gagged, the stench of alcohol and cigarettes attacking him at full force. He struggled against his steely grip. The stranger was a lot stronger than he was. Jungkook wasn't a fighter, but he did work out. He clamped his mouth shut and pushed the man away with all his strength.

When the stranger stumbled a little, Jungkook pushed at his chest again utilizing the moment and dashed to the door, through the club, and then outside. He felt strong pair of arms steadying him and relaxed once he noticed it was his security. They looked alarmed and he was shaking too much to say anything. He noticed one guy running inside, but the other was urging him into the car.

The comforting smell of leather and lavender blanketed him as he gasped for breath. Tears trekked down his cheeks and his chest tightened. He fucking despised his life.

Could it get any worse?

The first sob broke out when they took a turn toward the direction of his home. He curled into a ball in the backseat, letting the tears fall. With the happiness of the win felt like a distant memory now, he lay there wanting nothing more than to be in the comfort of his home, within the walls of his bedroom.

Why me?

What did I ever do to deserve this fate?

That night was too long for Jungkook. Sleep was impossible so he lay on his couch in his living room, his TV playing some random movie, which he barely focused on. His throat was tight.

Earlier, his security had followed him outside when he noticed Jungkook dashing out of the club. But when they went back his attacker was already gone and they didn't know more. The security company had said that they would contact the club management to pull the security footage and do the needful.

It was a little after three o'clock in the morning when Jungkook fell asleep only to be woken up by an insistent ringing of his phone. The young gamer fished for his phone, still disoriented from his sleep and answered it.

"Jeon Jungkook?" A gruff voice greeted.

"Ah, yes." Jungkook's brow knotted as he sat up, rubbing the sleep off his eyes and his gaze idly finding the wall clock. Eight a.m. it read. "Who's this?"

"This if Officer Brian Stewart from NYPD. There has been a homicide downtown."

"H-Ho...what?"

The words whoever in the other end said was lost on him. What is happening? Why was he receiving a call from the police?

"Can you come down to the station later to give a statement?"

"A statement?" The sudden knock on his door brought him out of his stupor. He stumbled to the door, relaxing when he saw his security's face in the small monitor by his lock. He opened the door immediately.

The security stepped inside, his usual stoic face sported a frown and something akin to concern. Jungkook forgot that he was on phone as he stared at him. "What is it?"

"The person who assaulted you last night is dead."

Jungkook's phone slipped from his hand. "W-what? How?" His breathing quickened, eyes wide as he brought a hand to cover his mouth.

"He was killed. We need to go."

The gamer stepped back until his back hit the backrest of the couch. "H-he is dead?"

The security nodded solemnly. "I do not have any details yet. My orders are to bring you to the local precinct for a standard inquiry."

Jungkook's throat clogged as he fought to keep his breathing regular. His eyes stung. Someone was dead. He didn't even know the name of the guy, but he remembered him well, remembered the way his stench stung his lungs.

Fuck!

"I-I need a few minutes alone," he muttered before rushing to the bedroom.

Once inside he closed the door and slid to the floor, the tears falling freely. When will he be ever free of this? He covered his mouth as the first sob broke out. When will this end?

***

Living in New York was a dream for many, but not for Seokjin. He'd seen and experienced enough in this lifetime to know what lurked behind the façade of the bustling city. Driving through city traffic was a headache. Not something he preferred. He'd have rather taken a subway. But as the Special Agent In-charge of the FBI, he had a duty and a reputation to uphold.

He sighed for the umpteenth time as a driver behind him tested his patience for the past fifteen minutes. The insistent honking was starting to get to his nerves. He was tempted to honk and flip a finger. A normal Kim Seokjin who was off duty wouldn't have thought twice. His black SUV careened through the busy city traffic nearing his destination with every passing minute.

Tapping his fingers on the wheel, he rode through the last signal and sighed upon reaching the headquarters. The most recent case involving the Pro Gamer was a growing headache. Seokjin knew who the right fit was, but the problem was in convincing him.

Sure, as a special agent, this person has to listen to him. But Jimin was like no other agents they had. Every agent was unique with their skillset. However, the moment he read Jungkook's case file, he had known Jimin was the one. He parked the car in its designated spot and headed upstairs.

The FBI headquarters buzzed with activities as usual. He returned the cheerful greetings and headed to the gym already knowing where his target was. After another successful covert operation and a short break, Jimin had just returned to the office that week.

"Damn! I've never witnessed any other team moving in sync like that. You're a menace Park Jimin."

The voice reached even before he entered the gym. Yoongi was doing as he was told. To hold the headstrong agent until Seokjin came. He knew Jimin can't refuse if he met him in person and he knew exactly how to convince the other.

"Hey, what about me? He didn't do it alone you know," another agent Kim Taehyung argued. He was Jimin's partner.

"I wasn't finished," Yoongi countered.

Seokjin grinned ear-to-ear at the sight of his best agents.

"Then finish it now," Taehyung challenged.

From the looks of it, they must have sparred with other agents working out at the gym. They did that often in between them to see which team worked better. As partners, it was highly important to know each other's strengths and weaknesses.

Kim Taehyung and Park Jimin were lethal as a team because they moved as one. Seokjin didn't know how they did it. It was as if one could read the other's mind. That combined with their intelligence, they were undefeatable in fights and therefore, highly sought after for cases related to organized crimes, especially their undercover operations.

Jimin looked as good as new for a guy who almost got shot in the recent mission. He was wearing only a pair of sweat pants that hung low in his hips, revealing his taut rope of muscles. His natural dark brown hair was now blond. He got it dyed for his last mission. But now that did little to soften the intensity in his eyes. He looked every bit lethal.

"Good morning!"

Jimin met his gaze dead-on, not reciprocating his radiant smile. "If you're here about that gamer, forget it." He spun on his heel. "I'm not into babysitting."

Jin's smile deflated a little. "Someone was killed last night," he said before Jimin could leave. The special agent halted in his tracks, his entire back stiffening. "They left a message," Jin continued, a slight smile tilting his lips now that he had Jimin's attention. "This is not just stalking anymore, Jimin. His life is in danger. The meeting starts in thirty."

Jin nodded curtly toward Yoongi, his partner Hoseok and Taehyung before pivoting on his heels, very well knowing Jimin can't bear the knowledge of a civilian's life in danger and would follow.

***

Jimin usually didn't take stalking cases. It wasn't his forte, but he knew a challenge when he saw one. He'd been ignoring Seokjin's pestering for the past week or so to take on the case because he saw no potential in babysitting someone 24/7. And these cases were unpredictable and took an incredible amount of time. He didn't want to be stuck with one case for months or probably even a year while he could do so many other things.

"Jeon Jungkook, Age 24, Male, Professional Gamer. He has been playing for Korean National Team for the past seven years and won three world championships. He's one of the top-earning professional gamers in the world. The stalking started approximately five years ago, shortly after the biggest game convention in Seoul," Taehyung rattled as the pair continued down the long hallway that led to the interrogation rooms. Their boots clacked on the pristine floor. "He moved to New York three years ago, but the stalker found him again. He has shifted to different apartments six times during this period and now lives in one of the recently renovated buildings in the West Village."

Jimin has changed back to a tight-fitting black shirt and black slacks, pairing it with a grey executive blazer that accentuated his thin waist. His blond hair was pushed back and styled to reveal his forehead. Beside him Taehyung was in all black, looking like a runway model. They knew they looked good and what effect their looks had on people. It was one of the reasons they were often sent to undercover missions.

Their missions ranged from surveillance to gathering evidence and sometimes infiltration. The last mission was human trafficking for sex trade in one of the shadiest parts of the town under the disguise of a club. Jimin and Taehyung had busted the gang responsible after several months of hard work.

Several heads turned their way, some waving and some greeting. Jimin nodded at them offering a friendly wave in return. The agent saw him as soon as he entered the room, slipping beside Seokjin behind the one-way mirror. Dressed in an oversized black hoodie and blue jeans that he had paired with Alexander McQueen boots, he was a mixture of intimidating yet innocent. His shoulders were hunched, elbows resting on the table, and knees bouncing.

Jeon Jungkook, the agent's memory supplied as his scrutinizing gaze took in his trembling form. Fear. He knew one when he saw it. The guy looked too young to be twenty-four. He was only four years younger than him.

"You said you went to the club after the games. Where was your security?"

"One was with me." Jungkook's tongue darted out to lick his lips. "The other one was waiting outside." His voice was soft, but sure.

"Did your security see this man?"

Jungkook nodded. He fidgeted with the sleeves of his hoodie as he spoke, "He said he saw him dancing closer to me for a while before he approached me."

"Was he familiar by any chance?"

Jungkook shook his head. "N-No, I've never seen him before."

"Where were your teammates?" The agent continued with the questions.

The gamer shrugged. "I don't know. We started drinking and hit the dance floor. I didn't pay much attention. I was a bit tipsy."

The agent nodded. "So, the man, he initiated the touch first."

"Y-Yes."

The agent looked through the papers in his hand with another nod. "And you mentioned in your statement that he was hitting on you."

"Y-Yeah. He grabbed me without my consent. I told him I wasn't interested and...I went to the toilet. But he followed me." Jungkook squirmed in his seat.

"Where was your security when you headed to the toilet?"

"I don't know." Jungkook shook his head. "I was uncomfortable. So I just wanted to go home. I texted the security and my driver once I was inside, saying I wanted to leave."

"What happened in the toilet?"

Jimin already knew what happened there. He'd seen the recovered footage. He folded his hand across his chest and waited for them to finish.

"H-He was waiting for me when I got out. T-Told me that I was playing hard to get and then...then he..." Jungkook swallowed. "H-He kissed me. I-I pushed him away and ran out."

The agent nodded. "Did you tell your security about it?"

Jungkook shook his head. His knee bounced under the table. "I-I was in shock." He stared at his fidgeting fingers. "I didn't tell them until I got home. B-but they must have guessed something went wrong because I saw one of them running back inside."

The agent nodded. "Your security saw the man heading to the toilet after you. But he was unaware of the conversation that happened between you both. He told us that he stayed away to give you privacy."

Jungkook nodded.

"Which brings me to my next question? It's a bit personal. But you must understand that now this has become a concern of other's safety as well. May I?"

"Y-Yeah."

"How often do you go out? As in how often do you indulge in one-night-stands?"

"I-I don't." Jungkook shifted in his seat. "I d-don't do one-night-stands. I don't go out either. Last night w-was an exception. We were celebrating. I-I wasn't planning to take anyone home or leave with anyone or indulge with anyone."

The agent regarded him for a moment. "When did you learn about this incident?"

"This morning," Jungkook's voice wavered. A visible shudder ran through his body. "I-I got a call from the police. T-then my security told me."

Jimin was getting bored with their usual procedure. He'd rather get the show on the road. "Bring him to the office, Seokjin-ssi," Jimin said. "Ask the agent to wrap it up." He checked the time. "I'll be there in ten."

He didn't wait for Seokjin to respond. He was already out of the door with Taehyung following him hot on his heels.

***

Jimin would have preferred a trip to the morgue and the crime scene first, but Jungkook was already here and that'd have to wait. He had quickly read through the files and looked at the crime scene photos while sipping his coffee.

"The guy is clean," Taehyung stated as if reading his mind. "I sometimes watch his streams. He's an introvert, doesn't even raise his voice much, and is always hidden in his oversized hoodies."

Jimin hummed in his throat as he finished his coffee. "Any information about his family?"

Taehyung shrugged. "His parents live in Busan. One brother. He works in Seoul. We know what's only mentioned in the files. Jungkook is a private person. He's not even that active on social media like he used to be before the incident."

"You happen to know a lot about him," Jimin stated.

He met Taehyung in the university. They shared a dorm room. Jimin was double majoring in criminal justice and psychology while Taehyung double majored in computer science and foreign languages. Both had the same ambition, to get into law enforcement. Their common interests had brought them closer and Jimin was elated to find that his best friend was his partner once he joined the FBI. They had been unstoppable ever since.

Taehyung rolled his eyes. "I told you I used to watch his streams. You know my craze for games while in college and Jungkook is like a prodigy. He's very sweet and does this stream where he patiently teaches how to play. So yeah, I know him. Not just personally. Very humble in my opinion. Everyone likes him."

Jimin nodded thoughtfully. There was no specific reason for a person to get obsessed. Perhaps, it was the same qualities that attracted them. "Do you know what happened that caused him to move to New York?"

Taehyung shook his head. "We are yet to receive those files from the Seoul police. A shit ton of formalities and paperwork," he huffed. "But Jungkook's brother went to university with Seokjin-ssi. So he knows the entire story."

"I want to hear it from Jungkook," Jimin said. His first assumption was that the stalker had to know Jungkook personally. At least, they should have been in the close circle or within his reach. The gamer should have met this person at some point in time or it was just a worst case of an anonymous fan.

Taehyung's brow shot up. "Looks like you already have a plan."

"When did I not have a plan?" Jimin smirked. "I have a few assumptions based on the information we have received so far."

Taehyung finished his milkshake and stood from the table before grabbing the file. "Something tells me I'm going to enjoy this."

"You always enjoy it," Jimin shot back as he jumped to his feet.

Seokjin's office was on the twenty-third floor. When Jimin and Taehyung arrived fifteen minutes later, the senior greeted him with a wave of his hand.

Jungkook jumped from his seat the moment Jimin pushed the door open and he was met with wide doe-eyes. He marched in, his strides confident and gaze never leaving the young gamer. Up close, he was beautiful and easy on the eyes. Taller than Jimin a few inches and broader. And he smelled like clean laundry and mild perfume.

"Jungkook-ssi, this is special agent Park Jimin and Kim Taehyung," Seokjin said from behind his desk.

The young gamer nodded, hands clasped in front of him and fingers fidgeting. He bowed in greeting. "Nice to meet you, Jimin-ssi, Taehyung-ssi."

The first impression of Jungkook wasn't what Jimin expected it to be. Jimin doesn't remember what he expected, but it was certainly not this. The young gamer radiated warmth. Jimin had come across several kinds of people. Both the good and the bad kind. But people like Jungkook were rare. So humble and respectful.

"Likewise. Please sit." Jimin kept his voice gentle not wanting to spook the kid. Jungkook held himself well, but Jimin could easily read him like an open book. There was a slight tremble to his body and he kept shifting in his seat. His gaze turned to Seokjin. "Did he identify the victim?"

Seokjin nodded. "Yes. He was at the morgue this morning to confirm the identity."

That explained the paleness in his face. Jungkook flinched at the mention of the morgue. Jimin looked at Taehyung who nodded in understanding and pulled his phone out before stepping away from them.

Jimin had seen so many crimes and bodies in his career, but this one was gruesome. There was just so much rage. The victim's body was mauled, his privates destroyed, but his face was left untouched. If it wasn't for the words engraved in blood on the wall where his body was dumped they wouldn't have connected him to Jungkook.

Jeon Jungkook is mine. It read. It didn't take long before the FBI traced the victim's last seen location and retrieve the video footage that showed his unfortunate encounter with the gamer. It all tied up perfectly. The stalker had somehow known about the incident. Took their revenge on the victim for touching Jungkook.

Jimin schooled his thoughts. "Jungkook-ssi, why don't we move to the couch? We can talk comfortably." He motioned with his hand and Jungkook looked around nodding mutely. The first step of an effective interrogation was to make them comfortable and get them to trust you.

Jimin followed and took a seat adjacent to the loveseat Jungkook occupied. The young gamer had his hands on his lap, eyes downcast, and teeth worrying his bottom lip.

"Relax," Jimin switched to Korean, noticing the positive reaction from the gamer. "I've read your case files on the way here. But I prefer to get some answers from you if you don't mind."

Jungkook swallowed but nodded. He forced his shoulders to relax. "I-I already answered everything this morning." His voice was so small, slightly wavering.

"Hmm...I know." Jimin crossed his leg, resting a hand on his knee while the other curled around the arm of the seat. "You're from Busan."

"Y-Yes."

"Me too," Jimin let his Busan Satoori slip and it had the desired effect on the gamer. His eyes widened and the agent saw something flicker in his eyes. Language and ethnicity created a sense of familiarity between strangers, especially when you met someone from your hometown on foreign land. Jimin knew that feeling so well, experienced it himself a lot of times. He expected that would help the gamer to relax around him. "My family moved here when I was ten."

"I-I moved here three years ago." Jungkook looked down at his hands on his lap again.

"I'm aware."

The door opened as if on cue. Taehyung went to the door and brought back a plain white mug with a boring logo of their cafeteria, placing it on the coffee table in front of Jungkook.

"It's for you," Jimin said. "I thought you could use one."

Jungkook's gaze flicked to him briefly before he reached for the mug, his eyes twinkling again when he saw what it was. Hot chocolate and marshmallows.

Jimin's lips curled a little. The gamer was so easy to read. He thought he might have sweet tooth and he was right. He waited until Jungkook took a sip. "So, Jungkook-ssi, when did you find out that you had a stalker?"

"Jungkook," the gamer said. "Call me Jungkook." He cleared his throat, cradling the mug in his palms. "I-I don't exactly remember, but it was sometime after the gaming convention in Seoul. Five years ago I think." He put the mug down and rubbed the palm of his hands on his jean clad thighs. "My fans send me gifts and letters all the time. But t-there was this person who sends me flowers every week with sweet notes." A soft smile tugged at his lips. "Tiger lilies, my birth flower. Sometimes it's roses or daisies. No matter where I am they never failed to send me flowers."

Jimin nodded, his intense gaze trained on Jungkook.

Taehyung perched on one of the arms in Jimin's chair, one leg swinging and his hands resting on his knee. "What type of notes?"

"Cheerful and encouraging ones. Hand-drawn cards. It was sweet." Jungkook sighed. "At least at first, it was." He blinked a few times, a frown tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"Do you still have them? The notes I mean," Taehyung asked.

"No." Jungkook shook his head. "The Seoul police took them. I threw away the ones I received here. My security team retrieved some. I don't know if they have it."

"When did you realize they were stalking you?" Jimin asked. "As in when did these notes stopped being sweet?"

The gamer chewed at his bottom lip and started bouncing his leg again. "There was this e-sports tournament held in Japan. Several teams were participating and I met with this female player, Hannah. She...ah, we hit it off. Not romantically, it was platonic." He cleared it quickly. "We both shared common interests and her gaming skills were amazing. One of the best actually. She taught me new tricks and gave me a lot of advice. We began to hang out and game together whenever we had the opportunity."

Jimin nodded encouragingly for him to keep going.

"A few months later, we went clubbing and got drunk. Someone took photos of us and posted them online. T-There were dating rumors." Jungkook cleared his throat. "And the notes...the notes started changing."

Jimin uncrossed his legs and leaned forward. "What did it say?"

"T-To stay away from Hannah. That they didn't like seeing me with her." Jungkook swallowed. "I ignored them because they weren't the only ones sending me those notes. There were a lot of messages, letters, and online comments. It wasn't pretty." He reached for the mug again.

The agents nodded in understanding.

"I took a break from social media until the rumors died down." Jungkook paused to sip the hot chocolate. He closed his eyes for a moment. "We still gamed together, but kept a low profile. We ran into each other in another gaming convention again. Once again the photos got out. There were threats, most of them were diffused. But this one went one step ahead and told me that they'd destroy Hannah's life if I didn't stop seeing her."

A shudder ran through Jungkook's body and the gamer clutched the mug tighter.

"When I refused to break off my friendship with her, they began sending me these photos. It was the photos of Hannah taken in public. We informed our respective companies and they filed a police complaint. But then the private photos started coming in. The ones were taken in the privacy of her apartment when she was sleeping." Jungkook's hands shook. "My apartment was vandalized and then they also began sending threats to Hannah. We both changed apartments, she moved to a different city, but they always found us."

Jimin's brows were furrowed, his gaze briefly met Seokjin who nodded with a sigh.

"Things were getting out of hands. My family felt that I should get away from my home until they caught the stalker. I moved here."

"But they found you again," Taehyung stated.

Jungkook nodded. "It became worse. It was like...t-they were furious." His thin lips trembled and he sniffed. "I don't know how they keep finding me. I rarely step out of my apartment anymore. Last night was a mistake," he sniffled. "The team compelled me to go and I couldn't refuse. I-I thought I was safe." He brushed off the stray tears. "I don't know what to do anymore."

Jimin crossed his legs again, his mind reeling. While he never took upon a case related to stalking, he'd learned enough about stalking behavior in college. Did some legwork to help another team a few years ago. He was also working to become a FBI profiler in the future and had a keen eye for details.

He now understood why Seokjin wanted him on the case. This stalker, whoever it was, was clever and dangerous. They left no clues. The evidence in their possession wasn't enough to pinpoint a person. Jimin and Taehyung were their best bet. Their team had the skill set required for this case.

"You can leave, Jungkook." Jimin stood, hands pushing deep into his pockets. "Our agents have already spoken to your security team. I'll be in touch with you shortly, but please stay inside for a few days, yeah?"

Jungkook let out a dry laugh. "Yeah, sure. What's new." He stood, his shoulders slumped as he put the empty mug on the table. "Thank you for this." He bowed again before leaving the office.

Jimin turned to Seokjin. "Tell me more."

Seokjin's face brightened up with a smile of victory. That sneaky agent always got what he wanted. Jimin suppressed the urge to roll his eyes at his senior. "There are things Jungkook doesn't know." He stood from his seat to walk around his desk and perched on it, crossing his feet at his ankles. "The suspect went after his family. Damaged their property, tried to attack his brother when they couldn't get to Jungkook."

Jimin frowned. That was dangerous.

"They breached into Namjoon's high-security apartment in Hannam the hill, a few things of Jungkook's personal items were stolen...like um, clothes...other small items and then they left a gift on his bed. Namjoon found it and shipped Jungkook off to America because he didn't think his brother would be safe as long as he was in Korea."

"What happened?" Taehyung stepped closer, his features hardening.

"Namjoon was attacked." Seokjin's eyes narrowed. "They meddled with his brakes and it was miracle he survived."

"Fuck!" Jimin cursed, pacing the small distance between the couch and Seokjin's desk. "That's screwed up."

Seokjin nodded. "His family hid this from Jungkook because they didn't want him to worry or rush back home. Namjoon moved his family to Japan. Jungkook thinks it's because of his father's new job. He doesn't know yet. Namjoon hired one of the best bodyguards in the country, so he is guarded."

Jimin sniffed, scratching his chin. From what he learned about Jungkook their worry was reasonable. He would go back.

"So we are basically looking for a psychopath," Taehyung surmised.

"And perhaps someone wealthy enough to pull this shit," Seokjin added.

Jimin hummed, pausing to stare at some random spot on the floor as his mind reeled. "I'll need Yoongi and Hoseok hyung on this with me. Also, arrange a call with Jungkook's brother." He then turned to his best friend. "Tae, I want you to go through the evidence once more. Do some digging. The footage only showed two people inside the toilet. There was no one inside. We need to know how the suspect knew of the incident. Either they are a hacker or they have a very good one backing them up. I'm going to check the crime scene and visit the morgue. Let's meet again in the evening."

Yoongi and Hoseok majorly dealt with cybercrime. Taehyung had a knack for hacking though he wasn't main stream. He had several tricks up his sleeve that came in handy in several situations such as this. For this though Jimin would rather rely on Taehyung more than the others.

He nodded toward his senior curtly before exiting the office. Jungkook was a public figure. Looking for his stalker was like searching a needle in a haystack. His teeth sunk into his bottom lip as he reached the elevator. They need to lure the stalker to them. His fingers tapped against his thigh. There was just so much to do.

***

It was Saturday when Jungkook finally heard back from the FBI. An entire week after the horrible incident that still kept him awake at night.

He wiped his sweaty palms on his ripped black jeans and pulled at the sleeves of his Seafoam green sweater. The elevator opened to the twenty-third floor. He relaxed a bit knowing he was headed to one of the offices instead of the interrogation room. People turned to look at him as he walked past them but he kept his head down, wishing he had his mask on.

The agent accompanied him showed him to Seokjin's office. Jungkook composed himself before knocking at the door.

"Come in," Seokjin's strong voice greeted him. Jungkook poked his head inside, meeting his bright smile. "Ah, Jungkook-ah, come in." Jungkook relaxed a bit. His brother spoke highly of Seokjin and assured him last night to trust the man.

"Good morning, Seokjin-ssi." He bowed, noticing four other agents in the room. He bowed toward them in greeting. He recognized the agents Jimin and Taehyung while the other two were new.

The first time they met him Jungkook was taken back because they all looked stunning. Seokjin looked straight out of the run way. He couldn't believe Seokjin was elder than his brother. He looked so young and cheerful with a dry sense of humor.

Jungkook was extremely nervous during his first visit, but he had made him feel comfortable and eased some of his nerves. The familiarity with which he spoke of his brother helped a lot. Mostly it felt good to converse in his mother tongue.

"Take a seat, Jungkook-ah," Seokjin said. He shuffled in his feat, occupying the chair he pointed to, which was right beside agent Jimin. "You've already met agents Jimin-ssi and Taehyung-ssi. These two are special agents Min Yoongi and Jung Hoseok," he introduced. He bowed at them which they returned with a curt nod and a small smile. "They'll be working on the case as well. Nothing you have to worry about but yeah if you run into them you know they're on your side. Jimin-ssi will brief you on our plan."

Jungkook nodded, adjusting in his seat as he turned expectantly toward the agent. It was comforting to know they were both from the same hometown. Jimin's intense gaze locked with his.

He looked beautiful as ever. Today he wore another black ensemble that fit him like a glove and accentuated his proportions. Jimin was shorter than him a few inches. But there something in the way he moved. There was this air of confidence that surrounded him and the way he carried himself said he was not someone to be messed with.

On the other hand, Taehyung was a mystery to him. With a face cutout for runways, he'd have ended several careers if he had taken that path. However, his eyes spoke of deep knowledge and experience. The expression on his face was that when someone knew something you didn't. Also, he was mostly observing and talked less, which was unnerving to Jungkook.

"I've been working on your case for the past week," Jimin began jerking him from his thoughts. His voice still took Jungkook by surprise. It was so soft and gentle. He even thought his gaze softened a little in contrast to the sharp look he had given him the first day. "We received your case files from the Seoul police department and we might have an idea or two." He scrunched his nose and crossed his legs. "We have formulated a plan to lure the suspect to us. We need you to cooperate with us, Jungkook."

Jungkook blinked, looking at the other agents in the room, who were all watching him intently. "What should I do?" His voice was small, came out softer than he intended to. He couldn't help but feel small among them. They had this intimidating aura that unsettled his nerves.

He was no stranger to the spotlight, but playing within the walls of his room or even in a convention was different. Even though all the attention was on him, Jungkook was too lost in the games to notice. This time, however, he squirmed under their scrutinizing gazes.

"First of all, I'd like to assure you that you're not in any sort of danger. Your safety is our priority," Jimin assured. "You just have to do as we say. Don't worry. We won't make you do anything you're not comfortable with."

"Okay? Um...C-Can you elaborate?" Jungkook's nervous gaze flicked to the others again. Something inside him told him that he wouldn't like what he was about to hear.

Jimin looked at Seokjin and the senior agent continued, "Jimin will move in with you." Jungkook blinked, not quite comprehending the direction of this conversation. "He has to be close to you all the time so he can protect you and at the same time find this person. We already spoke to your brother, Namjoon. Jimin-ssi is from Busan as well. So we will use that as our cover. He will act as your childhood friend."

Jungkook frowned. How would Jimin acting as his childhood friend bring the stalker out?

"I can see your confusion, Jungkook," Jimin said. "Don't worry. We've done similar things a hundred times before. It's only a temporary arrangement. And I'd like to ask you to trust us."

The youngest nibbled at his lips. "Sure."

Jimin pushed a file toward Jungkook. "This is a profile we created for the cover. Go through this so we both are on the same page."

"Okay." Jungkook accepted the file, securing it on his lap as he waited for further instructions.

"Jungkook, I have a few questions for you," the one to his right with black hair and soft features spoke.

Agent Min Yoongi had a deep voice. The young gamer nodded, turning to face him fully. The agent looked seemingly harmless and laidback, but the youngest knew these were the type of people who were lethal than the others. Namjoon had given him a briefing on what to expect.

"We ran the handwritten notes you received through some tests. Our handwriting analysts couldn't pinpoint if it's a he or a she," he continued. Jungkook already knew this. The Seoul police have already tried and failed. The private detective firms his brother hired have tried and failed. "However, the recent crime has shed some light on this. We have strong reasons to believe the perpetrator could be a woman."

"The victim was hit by a blunt object to his head. The level of injury sustained and the force applied to point us to a woman, but we can't be sure yet," the agent called Hoseok added. He sported a gentle smile that eased Jungkook's nervousness despite the nature of information being shared. He appeared to have the brightest and easy going personality in the room. "Can you tell us about your previous relationships?"

"I was never in a relationship," Jungkook replied. "I mean I never dated. I, um...I've hooked up a few times when I was in Seoul, but that's all."

"Think carefully, Jungkook," Taehyung piped in. "Any high school crushes? Did you ever reject someone?"

Jungkook's head whipped to him. "No. I was homeschooled from when I was sixteen. After that, I graduated in game development, computer science, and object-oriented programming from Seoul Cyber University."

Taehyung rubbed his chin thoughtfully while Jimin studied him quietly.

"I'm sorry if it's too personal. But we are only trying to help," Taehyung said again. "Do you recall any of your sexual partners being overly clingy or trying to contact you again? A booty call?"

Jungkook shook his head. He pulled at the sleeve of his sweater as he looked down. "I'm gay. I've only had male partners and it never got that far. I've never been with the same person twice."

"How many sexual partners have you had?" Taehyung asked again.

The youngest shifted in his seat, feeling conscious suddenly. "Um...three?" His face heated up. "I-I stopped after winning my first world championship. People started recognizing me and I couldn't risk it." He clasped his hands on his lap.

Jimin leaned forward resting his elbows on his desk. "Who all knows of your sexuality?"

"My family and teammates. We didn't think the public needed to know that yet."

Jimin nodded. "This might change a few things." His fingers drummed on the table. "The suspect became violent when they spotted you with a woman. They killed the man who harassed you."

Jungkook shrank into his chair, not quite catching the implication of things. "I don't understand."

"I first assumed it's someone you might have known." Jimin leaned on the table, resting his elbow on the table. "You see the stalker has to be close to you to develop that sort of obsession. They should have interacted with you at some point of time. But we already have the list of your friends and they all checked out." His fingers continued to drum. Then he reached out to Jungkook. The agent patted his hand once. "It's nothing you have to worry about, Jungkook. We will find them whoever they are. We just have to look at this in a different way. I won't let them hurt you."

And Jungkook trusted him. "Okay."

***

Jungkook spent the next two days preparing his guest bedroom that was void of furniture. What was Jimin's favorite color? He was tempted to ask the agent, even pulled out his phone to ask him but refrained from doing so. It had been a while he had company and though Jimin wasn't a friend or an acquaintance, the gamer wanted to make sure they stay at his home was comfortable for the agent. He was moving in to protect him after all.

He ordered a new bed and mattress from IKEA, keeping the tones neutral, and spent an entire afternoon setting it up. The room had an inbuilt closet, where Jimin could put his things. He also added a work table and a chair to the room in case if the agent wanted to work.

Restocking the pantry proved to be a challenge since he didn't know what Jimin preferred. Though he was originally from Busan, he grew up here. Did he still eat Korean food? Jungkook couldn't go a day without Korean food. He bought a few western food items like pancake mix and such just in case. By the time he was done, he was sweaty and exhausted.

He looked at the time and realized it was time to go to the airport. A fake setup, of course. He was to receive his childhood best friend and bring him home. According to their backstory, Jimin and Jungkook's families were neighbors. The boys were close friends and Jimin was visiting his friend in New York.

Jungkook took a quick shower and dressed for the evening. His phone had a text from Taehyung stating everything was ready. Not even his security team knew who Jimin was though they were aware that they were under FBI surveillance. It was the other agents who interrogated them and they had special instructions from the FBI.

Jungkook's hand shook a little as he opened the door and slid into the passenger seat. A part of him was excited to have Jimin at his home, mostly because he was deprived of any human interaction for the past three years unless it was through phone or social media channels. To have an actual living and breathing human being with him definitely had his spirits high.

The drive to the airport was smooth. Jungkook still had his mask on. While winter was Jungkook's favorite season because he loved the cold, he was extremely fond of autumn. The splash of colors and smells was intoxicating. The photographer in him itched to capture all the colors in their glory. This evening the sky was a bit cloudy with a slight drizzle. He was tempted to roll the windows down, inhale the crisp air.

"Sir, we are here," his driver announced.

Jungkook nodded and looked around, his heart racing as he noticed the throng of people. He just has to go to the arrivals and wait for Jimin to arrive. Well, the agent wouldn't be flying back and forth per se but yeah. He schooled his features, thankful for the mask that hid the nervous nibble of his lips. He weaved through the crowd, eyes trained on the exit.

His gaze swept around, trying to spot a familiar figure. Will Jimin wear one of his suits again? He met the agent only twice in his office and wondered how he looked outside of those elegant suits. There was a slight drop in temperature and Jungkook wished he had a jacket on. It totally slipped his mind. Not that he was out very often to keep tabs on the weather.

Relax, Jungkook. You can do this. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves. Will his stalker believe they were childhood friends? Deep breaths, Jungkook. Just act like you do when you receive your brother.

Ugh!

But he never received his brother at the airport. His driver was the one who picked him up and they always met at the apartment. Okay. I can do—

His thoughts were cut short by an excited, high-pitched sound. "Jungkook-ah!"

Jungkook's eyes widened as he took in the mop of blond hair racing toward him with a huge smile on his face. His jaw dropped, once again thanks to the mask that saved him from obvious embarrassment.

Fuck!

Jimin looked like a giant fluff ball in his oversized red sweater and black skin-tight jeans. His brain short-circuited wondering if it was the same agent he met a few days ago. He blinked several times, his lips stretching to reciprocate Jimin's smile as the older jumped into his arms.

Jungkook stumbled a bit, not at all expecting this. His hands came around to wrap around Jimin's thin waist. "Hyung..." he managed to greet. Jimin was so warm and the youngest leaned in instinctively.

Jimin only hugged him tighter. "I missed you so much, Jungkookie."

"Me too," Jungkook said awkwardly as Jimin stepped back, his smile not once faltering.

"You've grown a lot taller." Jimin reached out to ruffle Jungkook's hair as if they'd done this a hundred times before.

Jungkook forced his body to stay relaxed, not at all expecting the agent to be touchy. A little warning would have been nice. Once again, this wasn't agent Park Jimin. This was his childhood best friend Park Jimin. "Come, let's go home." He grabbed the bag Jimin had dropped on the floor and tugged at his arm.

Jimin happily followed Jungkook's lead, rambling in fluent Korean and Jungkook must admit the agent was a natural. If he didn't know this was all an act, he would have believed Jimin had just landed in New York. He also had to remember this Park Jimin wasn't fluent in English as per their back story. Oh Shit! He should have read the file once more. Did he do okay?

Soon they were entering the car and Jimin kept talking. Jungkook did his best to indulge, asking questions about their old friends and their hometown. It was as if Jimin had an answer for everything. Though it was only his driver and security, Jimin didn't once let his façade falter.

Jungkook carried Jimin's luggage inside, the said agent hanging off on another arm. They stepped into the apartment and the gamer locked the door, showing the code to Jimin so he can come and go as he pleased. The agent didn't let go of his arm until they were in the safety of the guest bedroom.

"I prepared the guest bedroom for you," he said dropping the luggage on the floor beside the bed. "I wasn't sure what you liked." He scratched his nape. "Hope this is comfortable. Um...I also restocked the kitchen. I like to cook at home, but if you want take out or cook for yourself that's fine too. I work out in the living room. There is little equipment here. Feel free to use anything you need. There's also a gym in this building if you prefer that." He shuffled in his feet

"Sure, Jungkook." Jimin was in the middle of the room, his calculating gaze taking in everything. "I appreciate this, thank you. I need to familiarize myself with your apartment, map the layout, and set up a few things but you can relax."

Jungkook nodded. "I'll be in my gaming room then. It's the second door down the hall. The first one is my bedroom."

"Okay. I'll have to ask Taehyungie to disable the cameras when we are both at home." Jungkook's heart jumped at the word home. This place hasn't felt like home like ever. To Jungkook it was just a dwelling place that served as a shelter. "We have a good reason to suspect this stalker has had access to the club security footage. It's risky if they're watching you inside your own home."

Jungkook paled at the implication. Jimin closed the distance between them and put a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"I'm here now," he assured in a gentle voice. "You'll have your freedom soon, Jungkook."

The gamer relaxed visibly. It felt good to be assured though he didn't know their chances of success yet. This person seemed to be like a ghost, very good at covering their tracks. He wished Jimin succeeded in this case. "Thank you."

"Is it only cameras or are there any microphones too?"

"It's only the cameras. They suggested it mainly so they can keep an eye on me without intruding on my privacy. Also, this person vandalized my apartment twice. Once back in Seoul and once here. So, they thought this would be for better."

The cameras were disguised in the form of décor. One wouldn't know unless they were looking for it specifically. He shouldn't be surprised that Jimin noticed them without Jungkook even telling him they were there in the first place. But it only proved Jimin had a keen eye for things. He took comfort in the fact that he was in good hands.

"I don't trust anyone but my team," the agent said. "I'll talk to Seokjin-ssi to see what we can do to have a better control regarding this. Your private security firm is cooperating well, but I'd rather handle the things my way."

Jungkook nodded in understanding. "So...Do you...um...eat Korean food? You can tell me if you prefer Western. I've learned to cook a few dishes.

"I prefer Korean food," Jimin said with an appreciative smile. "I don't get to eat that much often at home if you know what I mean."

"Oh." Jungkook beamed. "I thought of cooking rice and kimchi stew. Do you like meat? What about seafood?"

"I like meat. I'm not that picky, Jungkook." He folded his hands across his chest, but it wasn't intimidating, just casual. "You really don't have to do this."

"It's fine really. I like to cook." The gamer smiled. "I haven't had a guest in a while." He shifted his weight from one foot to the other. "I just want you to be comfortable here."

Jimin's face broke into that brilliant smile Jungkook witnessed for that first time in the airport. His heart fluttered at the sight. God, Park Jimin was so beautiful. How did he not notice it before? He did notice but he was beyond anxious to even let that fact sink in. Now they were away from all that shit, in the safety of his apartment, he was feeling it full force.

"Trust me, Jungkook. This is the most comfortable situation I'm in and I'm hoping to make the best out of it."

The gamer admired the smile a moment longer, reciprocating it. "Alright, I'll let you settle then." Jungkook backed out of the room, closing the door behind him with a soft click.

***

"Smells so good in here."

Jungkook looked up from the stove to see Jimin sauntering toward him in a long-sleeved t-shirt and sweatpants. He had an open concept kitchen that overlooked the living room. The sitting area and television were set in a way he could watch something while he cooked. The three bedrooms and the guest bathroom lined the walls. The glass doors to the left led to the small balcony. There was a small area beside the doors he had converted into a workout area. The apartment overall had white tones, mainly because Jungkook hasn't bothered to decorate them. What was the point if he was going to move?

"Thanks." He smiled at the agent who slipped on the kitchen stool with a relaxed expression. "There is beer in the fridge if you want."

"No. I'm good." Jimin shrugged.

"I'm almost done." Jungkook stirred the stew as he moved to pull the bowls out from his kitchen cabinet. The agent simply watched him as he plated the rice and put it on the counter in front of Jimin. He went to the stove tasting the stew, satisfied and turning it off. "Sorry if it's not what you expected." He served Jimin and took a seat beside him. "I've only cooked for my brother before."

Jimin dug in with a soft smile. "I told you I'm not picky with my food." He chewed the food with an appreciative hum. "This is good."

"Thanks. I started cooking only after coming to New York. I couldn't go out often and I also missed home. This is as close as I could get to home." His voice faltered and he cursed himself for letting it slip.

Jimin patted his hand twice. "I'll do my best so you can go home sooner."

"That's all I ever want." Jungkook sighed. He wanted to go home again. Meet his family and spend time with his friends. Wanted to have his life back.

They ate the rest of the meal in silence. Jimin offered to do the dishes, which Jungkook politely refused. He loaded empty dishes into the dishwasher. The agent set out to explore the apartment while Jungkook spoke to his brother briefly, updating him about the whereabouts. Jimin was in one of the rooms, so Jungkook plopped on one of the couches, tuning into Net Flix and browsing through the movies.

"The cameras are offline," Jimin said exiting Jungkook's bedroom. "The apartment is safe." He stood in front of the balcony door, going out and taking a look around. Jungkook just watched when he stepped back inside, locking the door and pulling the curtains close. "We are on the seventh floor. The balcony overlooks the busy street. If they want to slip in without notice, the main door is the only way in. We have asked your private security firm to double security, but they'll stay out of sight and contact. Their job is to only keep an eye on us and report any unusual activity around us."

The young gamer nodded, chewing at his bottom lip. Jungkook appreciated that Jimin kept him updated. He moved to make space when Jimin occupied the space beside him. "Would you like to watch something?"

Jimin shrugged. "Anything is fine." He already had his phone out, typing quickly.

Jungkook chose an action movie, eyes and mind barely registering the scene being played. "Hyung..." he called. "You said we need to lure the stalker out. How are we going to do that?"

Jimin slanted a glance toward him. "You need to make more public appearances," he said, eyes now fixated on his phone screen. "Since you don't have any immediate gaming conventions or anything like that, I thought we could explore the city." He locked the phone and dropped it gently on the couch between them. "Just like any childhood friends do. You just have to be in the public eye. We will be under surveillance, so you'll be safe."

The young gamer nodded. "Okay."

Exploring the city like any friends do. His heart jumped with joy. It had been ages since he went anywhere. He has locked himself in so much that he was growing desperate. This...this wasn't just a mission. This was an opportunity for him to get his life back. Jimin seemed like a good company.

"Jungkook..."

"Yeah?"

The agent looked as if he was contemplating something, but the frown on his face smoothened out. "I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Don't think of this as a mission. Leave that to me. All you have to do is accompany me while I show you some great places in New York. Have fun," the agent added light-heartedly and the gamer could only nod.

The smile that was spreading on his face must have been a dead giveaway of how he felt inside. That night sleep came easy knowing Jimin was in the adjacent room. 

I'm writing this fic for Gamer JK fest on Ao3. It's ongoing and will be updated slowly.