In which Jungkook meets his new neighbor, someone he's willing to suffer to stay by his side.

66,666 words.

Thank you to @kkabtsarmy. This one is very special, so please love it! This particular person gave me their trust in me to write their own well thought out idea, asking me in such a way that felt so honest that I've been brewing ways to honor what they wanted in my head for a while now! So hey, if you ever feel like writing this yourself, I support you 100%!

And here are the warnings ⚠️ :
•Homophobia
•abuse
•trauma

And I promise what I always promise, this will have a good ending. 💜

                                    _____

Jungkook packed his bag for work, leaving his house quietly. He really just wanted to get to work, get somewhere where he wasn't constantly feeling his chest tighten. He wished he was someone who smoked or drank, just so he could calm his body down, but couldn't. His mind was blurry as he walked to the bus stop, keeping his head down, fixing his beanie occasionally.

It was starting to get colder now that fall was over. It didn't really matter, since every week was rather similar for him, but he did enjoy when it snowed. At the moment though, it was just cold and early in the morning, having left before his dad had even gotten ready for work.

His bus stop was lonely, as he sat on the bench alone, a little early today. He took a big breath, then let it out.

He was really close to saving enough money for at least a months worth if he took a train to Seoul. Even if he was on the streets for a little bit, he'd have enough for about a month. He calculated again. If he still had the stash at his friends house, the stash in the back room at work, and the stash at home, maybe he'd have two months, but those were all very flimsy.

All he could count on was the money in his bag.

If he left tonight, right after work, right after he got paid...

His bus came, Jungkook snapping back to reality. He'd gotten a lot more spaced out lately, as he got on and paid.

He sat and thought about it. One month was just simply too little. He'd have to aim for at least three, maybe five months in advance incase he couldn't get a job right away.

He sighed heavily as he held his bag to his chest, pouting a little. He just hoped work would be better than yesterday.

He got off the bus with a smile and wave to the driver, heading to the bakery he currently worked at. He was let inside by a manager.

"Jungkook! You're early today." Jaebum gave him a tired smile. "Ready for the day already?"

Jungkook gave an equally tired smile. "I still can't believe you get here at 5am hyung. I wake up at 5 to get here at 6, I- you are amazing."

"Well, let's get to it." Jaebum put on a playlist on the speakers before the two started their routine. Making fresh batches of bread, cupcakes, bagels, cookies, and prepping whatever else they needed in the day.

A couple customers came in before their work, getting pastries, some getting drinks, some staying in the store to study.

Jungkook swept the floor monotonously, his mind still elsewhere. Fuck, he had a dinner tonight. Fuck, fuck. Things were not going his way at the moment.

The job never seemed to end. His hours were long, his body was tired, but thank fucking god he got paid today. He thanked Jaebum endlessly for being so kind to him; it was odd nowadays to ask for cash payments instead of to your bank account, and not every business would make the exception.

"Can I use your phone hyung?"

"Hm? Sure, wanna change the music or something?" Jaebum was cleaning as Jungkook went to the back room.

"Just wanna look through the music." Jungkook felt a tad bit bad for lying, but Jaebum was kind.

"Ah, alright." He knew.

Jungkook looked at bus stations that could take him to the train station closest to him. He could make those without looking conspicuous. He then checked the train tickets, times, and dates to Seoul.

"Mm." Jungkook sighed as he thought about it. If two months of working could get him maybe a month in Seoul, then 10 months would give him 5. He winced, thinking maybe he could suffer in Seoul instead of at home. He checked his money stash, glad to see it was still there, before getting his bag ready and checking out.

"Heading home already?"

"Yeah. I've got nowhere else to be." Jungkook shouldered his bag. "I'll see you tomorrow morning hyung, rest well." Jungkook bowed a little as a goodbye before leaving. He checked his phone and sighed heavily as he saw a text from his mother.

She was only reminding him of his date tonight, nothing else.

He fixed his beanie as he walked, taking his time to get home. He didn't like taking the night bus, since he didn't like going home, and besides, he enjoyed the breeze at night. At least, that's what he told himself.

He had the time to do it anyways.

The little voice in the back of his head started to get louder, so Jungkook got his earbuds and played some music to drown it out. He had to keep looking at the positive. He had to get out. He had to get out.

He was already an adult, at a measly 21, having started working right out of high school for three years. He couldn't afford college on his own, and his parents were absolutely no help. Besides, they didn't want him to go to Seoul. And they especially didn't want him to go to an art school.

"Why would you want to major in art? Your father is a very successful businessman, join his company! You'd be able to get in nearly for free." His mother had scolded him the moment he got a college pamphlet in the mail, one that Jungkook had read over and spent time considering.

"I don't want to work there." Jungkook kept his eyes on the pamphlet she was now holding.

"Your father wants you to be successful too you know, this is a good step forward."

"I won't...enjoy my time there..."

"Oh, and jumping from job to job is? Jungkook, working at cafes and bakeries isn't what we want from you. You're smart, you can handle your fathers job."

"I don't want to work there." Jungkook tried to explain. "I like making art, that college is what I like."

"...you can't go to an art school. You could go to a medical school?"

"I'm bad at science and math! You know I- I'm not good at school, but I'm good at art."

"Honey, no."

"I want to dance and create art mom." Jungkook pursed his lips, his eyes still glued to the pamphlet in her hand.

She thwacked him across the head. "Not in this household. You are not gay."

Jungkook felt his chest tighten as he flinched at the hit. "I...I'm not saying that...I just like creating art..."

"Son, you need to step up and take responsibility, otherwise your father and I will." She sighed and turned tail. "We'll give you a year."

Jungkook snapped back to reality when he heard kids playing and running around, Jungkook barely avoiding them. He was surprised he didn't walk into the street. Maybe he-

He turned up his music, ignoring the little voice in the back of his head. He just needed to get out of this place.

He got home, taking off his shoes and going to his room before his mother could notice him. He stuffed his new money in a stuffed animal that had a zipper.

"Jungkook, was that you?" His mother called from the kitchen, Jungkook changing his clothes.

"I just got back from work." Jungkook called out. He made sure his bag was empty except for work related things before he washed his face and changed into a button down.

"You're going in that?" His mom leaned on his doorframe.

"Um...yeah. I don't have anything else that's clean right now." Jungkook spoke quietly as he looked away. "It's fine, right?"

"You could borrow one of your fathers. You're about the same size, right?"

"No, his shirts don't fit. This doesn't look bad, does it?"

"No, it's just a little wrinkled." She sighed a little. "But it's good. Your father should be here any minute to pick you up, okay?"

"I can see if dad has any other shirts-"

"No, it's fine. Just get ready." She gave a small smile before leaving his room.

Jungkook looked at himself in his bathroom. Was it too wrinkly? It looked fine to him, but well- "No, no stop it. I'm fine." Jungkook slapped his cheek, getting himself back together.

He changed his pants before he heard the front door open. He took a small breath before heading out to the kitchen, his mother kissing him on the cheek before leaving. His dad was waiting by the door. "Ready?"

"Yeah."

"You could've used one of my shirts." He mumbled as they got in his car.

"They don't fit me well..." Jungkook brushed his hair back as he looked down.

"Then at least don't make such a gloomy expression." He teased, but Jungkook felt bad. "No lady is going to fall for your charms if you're gloomy."

Jungkook nodded, trying to mentally prepare for another date. God it was so hard to put up with this.

The drive was silent after that, his father turning on the radio.

When they got to the restaurant, his father gave him a small wad of cash. "...you know you don't have to work at that bakery, right son? You can always work with me, the spot is open."

"Yeah yeah, I just...you know." Jungkook tried to find another lie. I don't want to work with you. "I like doing something I'm alright at."

"It's such little money, I'm sure we could-"

"I'm fine. Thanks for the ride." Jungkook gave a small smile and ended the conversation, leaving the car.

Fuck, this date was going to go so badly. He already knew it. It was going to go so badly for him. The restaurant was fancy, Jungkook going to the front desk.

"Do you have a reservation?"

"Yes, under Jeon?"

"Lovely, follow me." The nice lady took him to a table, setting down two menus. "Would you like to wait for your guest, or are you ready to order?"

"I'll wait, thank you." Jungkook smiled.

"Alright." She bowed and left, Jungkook taking a look around him. He'd eaten here before, his parents having a lot of money, but he couldn't remember much. A lot of his memories were flawed.

He took a small, controlled breath, fixing his shirt a little. He was going to get this dinner over with, hopefully prove to her that he was a horrible suitor, pay for dinner with his dads money, and pocket the rest that he didn't spend. He looked through the menu to try and find the cheapest meal he could that he still enjoyed.

He only waited a little bit before his date came. She looked like...a normal rich girl. Jungkook smiled, but felt stupid as his brain couldn't find a compliment that was good enough. You look normal! Very much like a girl, you're definitely pretty for a girl. Wow do I love women. Jungkook smiled more as he tried not to laugh at himself. God he was too fucking gay for this.

"Jungkook! I'm sorry I'm late, my driver got a little behind schedule." She sat down across from him, Jungkook laughing politely.

"That's alright, I wasn't waiting long at all."

"How was your day?" Yeji smiled as she looked through the menu. "You've been awfully busy lately, not even texting back." She teased, but Jungkook felt bad about it.

"Ah, yeah, I've been busy. I had work today. How was your day?" He watched her roll her eyes, still smiling.

"I hung out with my mom today, you know, had a girls day out. I still can't believe you work at a bakery." She set the menu down. "Weren't you considering working with your dad?"

"Oh, well...I thought about it, but I enjoy working at the bakery. I'm not cut out to be a businessman." Jungkook gave a small laugh. "I'm not interested enough in it."

"Ohhh, makes sense. How's the bakery?"

"It's good. Well, could be better, but I like how quiet it is. I also like how we get to listen to our own music, it's just very calming." Jungkook tried to be boring. He wasn't trying to make this work, he was trying to get dumped without doing it himself.

"That sounds really nice actually. I think we could all use some quiet time. You look so tired today though, are you okay? Sleep enough?"

"Today was really busy." Jungkook sighed softly. "I've never had to decorate so many cupcakes before. Um...I could show you the final product?" Jungkook didn't know how to be charming.

"I'd love to! Did you make cute ones?" She leaned closer, Jungkook getting his phone out and showing a picture. "Oh wow! Wait, that's a lot of skill! You must be good with your hands, that's such delicate work."

"T-thank you." Jungkook smiled a little. "It took so many hours...I'm still learning how to use fondant, so this was training."

"And your parents don't um...appreciate it? This is real skill, decorating is hard."

"Well-" Jungkook stopped when a waiter came.

"Are you two ready to order?"

"Yes."

The two ordered their drinks and food, before Yeji resumed their conversation.

"...you okay at home?"

"Yeah. They want you to come over actually, maybe for dinner or something. They um, want to meet your parents."

"Oh! I'm sure we could do that. My mom would love that."

"Yeah. Whatever works for you." Jungkook smiled a little. "How's work going for you?"

"Well, I did text you about it."

"I was at work."

"Yesterday."

"I was at work then too. I'm not supposed to be on my phone at work and as you can see...my hands are busy." Jungkook grinned. "Lots of training for me."

She sighed a little. "I would like it if we could text more. Or hang out more? I could pick you up after your work."

"Oh um...only if you'd want to? I'd be a little um, dusty with flour though."

"That's cute, don't worry." She laughed a little. "Besides, we've only been to restaurants, I want to know what you like." She looked at him earnestly, making Jungkook feel a little guilty.

"I think we could work something out." Jungkook gave a small smile.

"Well...it would be easier if you answered my texts." She brought it up again.

"Ah." Jungkook felt guilty. "I um...I'm a really bad texter. I'm horrible at getting back to people, and I know I leave people on read a lot. It's just- I'm better in person." Jungkook explained as much as he could without saying everything.

What would she think if he said his mom confiscates his phone whenever he gets home? Even at the age of 21? He didn't really enjoy talking about how strict his parents were.

"Well, then we just need to meet up in person more. That I can understand." Yeji smiled at him, leaning on her hand. "Let's hang out more."

Jungkook felt his chest tighten as he forced a smile. "Yeah. Let's."

They talked about scheduling the next time they could hang out, then about her job, Jungkook's friends, her friends, and some things about their past days. The food was good, Jungkook paid, and pocketed the rest. It wasn't too much extra, but hey, anything towards his goal to run away was worth it.

He felt bad. Yeji was a good person, kind, pretty, fun to be around, and someone that he ultimately was going to ghost. He was going to run away, he was going to do it, and he was going to leave everything behind. He mentally counted his days again, before he was snapped back to reality.

"Jungkook? You good there?"

"Hm? Oh yeah, I'm good, sorry. I've still got cupcakes on my mind. I might make a cake tomorrow."

"Nice." She smiled. "You seem a bit out of it today. You sure you're getting enough sleep?"

"I'm sure. I've got a couple hours. Might get some in tonight too." Jungkook joked a little, but in all seriousness he wasn't sleeping much at all. It was hard to, when he had early work and parents who watched over his shoulder like a hawk. He was tired of it.

It had been 21 long years of his parents making his decisions, and he was ready to leave. To simply, up and go, without a trace, into Seoul, somewhere he could struggle and make his own life.

He looked away from her. He felt bad that he was going to leave her in the dust.

"Jungkook..."

Jungkook checked his phone. "Actually...we've still got an hour to go, and my friends are nearby, do you wanna hang out with them?"

"O-oh, I'm...I don't know...won't we get in trouble?" She gave a concerned smile.

"We'll just come back before times up. You know, get out of a controlled area." Jungkook smiled back. "I promise we'll be back here on time. Early even."

"How far away?"

"Just a couple minutes. We could even go somewhere else just- let's go somewhere out of here." Jungkook smiled more. He could really use this chance.

"I haven't met your friends yet, so let's just do something together tonight, okay?"

"Of course. Let's just get out of here." Jungkook was fine with this too. He understood not wanting to meet his friends at night, since being one girl in a group of guys wasn't exactly fun. "Maybe in the day time we should." Jungkook added that quickly. "Or, anything you'd like."

He would take any reason to get out of his house.

She smiled more genuinely at that. "Yeah. I'd like that." She stood up. "Well, let's go see what's out there then."

Jungkook followed, sighing in relief when they left the restaurant. He hated that place, as it only reminded him of poor memories and half memories. But Yeji was nice at least, and she was the ticket for Jungkook to get out more.

She carefully took Jungkook's arms as she led them down the street, seeing where else they could go. "Well...there's places to go shopping, unless you want to get dessert somewhere?"

"Whatever you'd like." Jungkook moved his arm for her. "I'm fine with anything."

Jungkook let her take him to some different stores, holding her purse sometimes, before they had to make their way back.

"You know Jungkook, it seems like whatever I do, you just go along with it. Next time...let's do something you want to do." She spoke quietly.

"I like doing whatever you like doing."

"Jungkook, I want to learn more about you." Yeji smiled. "I want to know you better."

Jungkook felt his chest tighten. "O-oh, well, I think um...I don't have very many interests so...I like that you do and have places you want to go."

She gave him a small pout. "I don't believe that. Everyone has interests." Jungkook felt worse, the tightness in his chest becoming painful with anxiety. "...do you not want me to know more about you? We are dating, aren't we?"

"It's not that, I do want you to." Jungkook lied. "I just don't do that much, really, I don't." He gave an apologetic smile. "This is about as much as I do. I work...and sometimes I go on dates with you."

"Really? No- no hobbies? We've been dating for months, I-"

"Yeah. Really. Sometimes, if I'm lucky enough to be invited, I hang out with my friends."

"Ah. Um...are they? Really your friends? You don't talk about them very kindly."

"Well, I'm just so busy, it's not their fault." Jungkook shrugged. "It's hard to be invited to things when you're so busy, you know? Plus it's hard to contact me, so I get it."

"Jungkook...I don't think that's good."

Jungkook sighed. "It's not their fault that I'm busy."

"They should invite you to hang out regardless of whether you can come are not. That's it, I'm taking you on more dates."

"I don't always have um, access to my phone as you've noticed, so even if they did it would be hard. Really, it's not their fault."

"They live nearby your work Jungkook, they could see you anytime they wanted to. I'll drop by more often, okay? They're not good for you."

Jungkook looked down a little. "Ah...okay."

She continued to talk, but Jungkook still just felt...bad. No matter what he did, or who he was with, or where he worked, it was never enough. But maybe she was right, they weren't amazing friends? But it wasn't their fault! He canceled everything, or couldn't go when they were free. It wasn't their fault he couldn't go out as much as they could.

He waited for her ride to come, then started to head home. He hated his dad picking him up. He hated sitting in the same car for any amount of time. He just lied to his parents and said that Yeji's driver took him home, and lied to Yeji that his parents would pick him up.

He just liked walking home alone; it was calming and it was time for him to be alone.

He still had some time...maybe he could see his friends? No, no, he wouldn't have enough time to get home if he tried.

He checked his phone. He hadn't gotten any texts from his closer friend, the only one who had his number, even though he knew they were nearby. He'd told them he was going to be here today, but still...well, whatever. They would invite him when he wasn't busy.

Jungkook kept his head down as he headed home, trying to keep positive. He just needed a break. Or a breakthrough. Or somehow be able to take money from his dad without him knowing so he could get an apartment or house in Seoul.

When he got into his neighborhood, he saw a sold sign over the sign on the neighboring house. "Oh? Since when..." Jungkook hadn't seen anyone come check this house out since the last family moved out, but then again he hadn't been home that often.

He wondered what kind of rich family even wanted to move in to this place...and if they'd even notice a thing was wrong.

He headed inside, his parents in the living room watching a movie. "Oh! Jungkook, you're home! I thought I told you to text me when you were on your way."

"And you're 10 minutes late. Was it a nice date then?" His dad sounded a little disappointed and a little happy at the same time.

"Yeah, it was nice." Jungkook set his house keys on the rack by the door, taking off his shoes. "She wants to hang out more after my work."

"Well, I see no harm in that." Jungkook carefully made his way to the living room. He sat down quietly. His mother put her hand out, Jungkook giving his phone.

"I saw that the house next door was sold?"

"Yes! Such a lovely couple, they have a son around your age too. I didn't get to see him though, mmm. You could use some better friends."

"My friends aren't that bad." Jungkook sighed shortly.

"They're bad influences. If you started acting like them I might have to say you can't hang out with them. Especially that one boy."

"Son, we've been talking about your job again." His father paused their movie, Jungkook feeling his chest tighten again.

"Oh? Is there um...is there a problem?" Jungkook held his tongue.

"I think it would be best if you worked for me." His father looked at him seriously, and Jungkook realized he couldn't get out of this anymore.

"I...enjoy my job."

"You need to do more with your life. Working for a small bakery isn't- it isn't what you're capable of. You're smart, you're a hard worker, I know you can do it. I'm going to set up an interview for you next week. I don't want you to continue this in between thing you're trying to do."

Jungkook looked down. He really wanted to cry. "Okay...should I put in my two weeks notice then?"

"Yes. The interview is necessary, but you'll get in either way. It is my company after all. We're done having your potential wasted at odd jobs."

"Okay." Jungkook nodded. "I'll do that tomorrow then."

"Good."

"And how is Yeji?" His mother changed the subject.

"She's good. Um...I guess I'll need to tell her about going out..."

"Invite her over, we'd love to have dinner."

"I...guess I'll do that tomorrow too." Jungkook nodded, biting his lip a little.

"Good. She's a good girl you know. Her family is really nice, they've put a lot of care into their business and children."

"Yeah. I know." Jungkook had avoided this conversation as well, somehow unable to put it off any longer. "I'd like to take more time-"

"We've talked to her parents."

"I'd like to get to know her better. I'm only 21." Jungkook couldn't make eye contact. "I-"

"Your father an I were engaged when we were 20, Jungkook, it isn't farfetched."

"You knew each other in high school, that makes a huge difference. And she's young, I'm 3 years older."

"Consider it more."

"Okay." Jungkook tried to end the conversation. Fuck, fuck fuck, everything was falling out of place. He had worked so hard for the past year to delicately keep things in place, to delicately keep things in order, and his parents had finally caught on. "I need to go to bed, I have work tomorrow morning."

"Sleep well."

Jungkook stood and left, his chest tight, his throat closing up, and his eyes watering.

Fuck. He had to leave immediately.

Tomorrow morning after work, he could gather the money he had and get on the soonest train. He'd have to work shit out there, but he needed to get out of this engagement and get out of this work situation and get out of this goddamn house.

He stuffed the money he had left over in his stuffed animal, hiding it in his closet, before going to take a shower.

God things were just not going according to plan. He'd spent all his time after graduating trying to please his parents.

He'd gotten a girlfriend, someone they'd chosen for him. He'd looked for his own jobs, convincing them that he would be happier if he could do that. And it wasn't that they needed money either, his family had money.

He sighed heavily as he thought about money. He hated it so much. He hated how they made him give his money to the family. Their excuse was that if you worked in this family, you help pay for the family but by god if he didn't lie about how much he made and kept a small amount every paycheck, he wouldn't have any personal money.

He mentally checked his cash. In his room, there was a scattered amount. At work, there was a small stash. Maybe he'd be able to stop by his friends house too, after work at least.

Jungkook finished his quick shower, getting into bed and trying to ready himself for the next day.

He had to do it.

He had to leave tomorrow.

____

Jungkook left early that morning, before his parents were up. He stuffed all his money in his work bag, getting as little clothes as he could into it, picking up his phone from the kitchen counter and grabbing his keys.

His chest was tight, his eyes glued to the ground as he started walking.

"Oh hello!~" A soft voice called out to him, making Jungkook look up in surprise. "Are you our neighbor? We're moving in today."

Jungkook saw a soft looking man. He was shorter than him, blonde, dyed hair, and wearing many layers. It was winter, but he looked even smaller in the clothes. "H-hello..." Jungkook spoke quietly.

He smiled, and oh god Jungkook felt butterflies in his stomach. Not a tightness in his chest. Fuck, fuck fuck fuck Jungkook needed to stop that. He wasn't into guys. "My name's Park Jimin, it's nice to meet you! What's your name?" He came over to Jungkook, who held his backpack straps tightly. There were movers behind him.

"M-my names...Jeon Jungkook. It's nice to meet you too." Jungkook bowed, avoiding eye contact.

"How long have you lived here?" He was simply being polite, but Jungkook felt horrible.

"Um...my whole life."

"How many years is that?"

"21 at the moment. Um, I'm sorry, but I have to go to work, I...I don't..." Jungkook wasn't planning on coming back. Fuck, he didn't want to meet them.

"Oh, you're walking? We could drive you, well, actually." He looked behind him and shook his head a little. "Actually, we can't. But I could walk with you?"

"Wh- why would you want?...to?" Jungkook gave a confused smile.

"I don't know this area as well, perhaps I could learn a little more? Where do you work?"

"Um...at a bakery." Jungkook started to walk, giving a weak smile when Jimin started to follow. "You wanna come along?"

"Yeah! I've lived in Busan for a while but I haven't been in this area for a long time. Things have changed! Besides...I'm sure something at your bakery will taste good."

"Oh yeah, we've got lots of good things. Any kind of sweets and some really good bread." Jungkook smiled a little, before it faded. "You should continue to support it after I leave though."

"Oh? You're leaving?" Jimin looked at him in confusion.

"Yeah, I'm- I have to quit after today."

"Then I'll see how good it tastes. Why're you quitting?" Jimin hummed a little after he spoke. "Gosh it's cold. Aren't you cold?"

"I'm fine. This jackets thicker than it looks." Jungkook smiled a little. "You somehow still look cold even though you're bundled up."

"It is cold! We had the windows down on the car ride here for some reason. But oh well, I'll warm up. Maybe a warm drink would be good."

"I could make you something good." Jungkook shrugged. "We make good drinks too."

"Well perfect. Let me- hold up." Jimin got his phone out, texting someone. "Okay nice, my parents might get worried about where I am." He laughed a little. "Thanks for letting me tag along, I really appreciate it. This is nice."

"Oh, it's no problem. I like walking to work." Jungkook shrugged. "And I'm sure there will be no problem with you being in the bakery before it opens. I'm...I just didn't know your family would be here so early."

Jimin laughed, and Jungkook blushed deeply. He looked away as his stomach continued to have butterflies. Jimin sounded so...pretty. He didn't want to look at him for too long either, since he was sure his heart would simply stop if he did so.

"I didn't think we would be either!" Jimin laughed again, Jungkook wondering how someone so small could make such a full sound. His laugh alone was better than any riches Jungkook had been born with. "But hey, that's fine. I got to meet you early." He bumped their shoulders, smiling wide.

Jungkook spared a glance, blushing immediately as he did so. Jimin seemed so happy at this moment, making Jungkook smile a little in disbelief. "That's very nice of you to say."

"Well, my parent met your parents yesterday and they spoke about you. I was hoping we'd be able to meet without them, ya know? Parents always want their kids to get along, but when they hover around kids will never say what they actually want to."

Jungkook laughed quietly. "Yeah, I understand that." He thought to himself. Perhaps too much.

"Well, I'm glad we met this way. Though it is rather cold."

Jungkook smiled a little, taking off his beanie and putting it on Jimin's head. "If you get so cold you should cover up even more. Wouldn't want you to get shivers."

Jimin smiled wide as he adjusted the beanie. "Thank you. I'll...simply have to get used to the cold again."

"Where were you before?"

"I just graduated from college in Seoul, but finding an apartment there is taking a lot longer than I thought. So I'm living with my parents for a little bit until I can figure it all out."

Jungkook had a newfound interest. "Oh? What did you go to school for?"

"I'm a dance major." He gave Jungkook a small look, then blushed when Jungkook smiled wide.

"That's so cool! Seriously? Oh my god I always wanted to be a dancer." Jungkook smiled happily. At least someone was becoming what they wanted.

"Well, why don't you?"

"Oh me?" Jungkook laughed. "I can't, I'm going to be a businessman." He held his backpack straps tighter. "Besides, my parents said no to me going away for college."

"Oh." Jungkook could feel Jimin's eyes on him. "Well...anytime you'd like, I'll teach you what I know. I'll have a lot of free time for a little bit."

Jungkook gave a forced smile. "That's a very nice offer, but...I'll have to decline." I'm leaving tonight.

Jungkook had to keep reminding himself.

He was leaving tonight. He was going to do it. He had all his money, all he could take, all his personal belongings. He was leaving tonight.

"Aw, I'm sure I can convince you. If you're worried about intruding, you won't be. My parents will be mostly busy and I won't be. All I've got at the moment is time. Besides, you should show me around! Our other neighbor is older so I would rather hang out with someone closer to my age."

"How old are you?"

"Oh! Sorry, I'm 23." Jimin simply didn't stop smiling. "Ah, sorry for assuming you'll show me around too! Do you mind if you could?"

Jungkook opened his mouth before pausing. He was...going to leave today...he couldn't do both. But he looked so...Jimin looked so alone here.

"Think about it." Jimin could tell he was processing things. "I'll be free while I look for a house."

"I'll- I'll think about it. I might get busier starting next week is all." Jungkook lied. He didn't know if he could leave now, not after Jimin met him. He'd wonder, he'd be someone his parents would question and perhaps berate. If Jimin was one of the last people to see him...

"Oh that's fine. If night time is all you can do than I'm fine with that too!" Jimin was trying hard to make a friend of him, Jungkook could tell. He didn't seem harmful either, though this nice outside could just be a cover for the moment. You could never be too careful with rich kids.

"That might be what I can do." Jungkook sighed quietly. He didn't know how to get out of this...

"So you will show me around?" Jimin asked kindly, almost carefully.

Jungkook could really see it now, as he looked at him. He was really handsome, his eyes earnest in his request. "You don't have anyone here, do you?" Jungkook wished he could shut his mouth. "Oh I'm so sorry, that came out so harshly, you don't have to answer that." Jungkook felt embarrassed and bad. Who asks that?!

"No, it's okay. I don't, actually. Am I um, am I coming on too hard? Sorry-"

"No, don't apologize, that's okay. I just..." Jungkook pursed his lips. I was just going to leave today.

"That's okay! You don't have to, I'm happy that there's someone near my age is all. Hopefully your parents are fine with seeing me often! Oh, that is, if you're okay with hanging out with me. Sorry, I'm assuming a lot, I'm just envisioning it." Jimin laughed cutely, making Jungkook's heart melt.

He gave a warmer smile. There wasn't a bone in Jimin's body that could harm him. "Oh yeah? Well, I should be free for a week, I could show you around a little bit. I'm not sure though, I'd have to ask my parents."

Jimin smiled wider, making Jungkook look down with a blush. "That would be amazing! Thank you Jungkook. I really do appreciate it. I just know I'll miss my friends, but you looked like you could use the company too."

"Yeah, I always look tired in the morning." Jungkook gave a weak laugh. It was easy to see that Jungkook was lonely.

"Well, I don't mind being a walking buddy. Though this early is chance, I like to sleep in a bit more than this." Jimin laughed a little. "But I'd walk for you." He nudged his arm again, Jungkook blushing a little.

"Well, after today I won't need a walking buddy, sorry. I'll be going to a much different job."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. Jeon Inc. my dad's the uh...owner."

"And you work...at a bakery?"

Jungkook scrunched his nose. "I don't like working in a cubicle."

"Oh my god I can't imagine. Then you know what? Let's go out before you have to work next week, and I'd be down to hang out after work too. Anything to keep you out of a cubical."

Jungkook looked at him in surprise. "U-um, I'm sorry but...you just met me. Why would you want to hang out with me?"

"I...want to know you? Plus, I couldn't imagine working in a cubical either, I'd want to get out of that. I'd choose a bakery for sure, I need to move my body." Jimin sighed a little. "Why are you working there if you don't like it?"

"My dads making me. You know how it is..."

"Aw, that sucks, I'm sorry. Then hey...if you ever need me, I'll be right next door. That's taxing stuff. Wanna trade numbers?"

Jungkook felt his chest tighten. "U-um..." He tried to scrape his head around all the possibilities. His mom checked his phone every night, she would know he got a new number. She's ask him about it, meet him, make a judgement, and yada yada yada, the whole spiel. "Sure. Maybe at work I can give you my phone, I can't use it during anyways." Jungkook hoped Jimin was fine with being background checked.

He eyed him, obviously wondering about the weird response. "Okay. How long is your shift?"

"It's an 8 hour shift, I'm full time. You should probably head home after you get something to drink." Jungkook shrugged. Eight hours was a long time.

"Well, I happen to have a lot to do, but I can come back and walk you home."

"Oh no, don't worry about it." Jungkook smiled. Yeji was planning on coming after his work today...he was going to leave early but it seemed his plans had changed. Damn this man. Damn his luck! He was so unlucky! Jungkook gave a small sigh.

"You sure?"

"Yeah, I'll um, maybe we can hang out after I get home? I might be later tonight though. My um, my friend is going to take me out."

"Oh! Then perfect, I'll see if your parents are home, I might say hello."

"My dad will be leaving soon if you want to meet him. But my mom will drop by and say hello, she'll see you moving in."

"Lovely. I'll meet her then." Jimin smiled. "I bet she's as nice as you."

Jungkook gave a smile. "Yeah." That's a fucking lie. If I've met anyone nice...it isn't her. "Well...here we are." Jungkook opened the door, letting Jimin inside.

"Jungkook! Oh, who's this? We aren't open for business yet." Jaebum seemed worried before Jungkook waved a hand in dismissal.

"No, he's my new neighbor. I invited him in, don't worry, not an angry customer." Jungkook gave a small smile. "Um...I have to prep the tables first, sorry." Jungkook felt bad about Jimin having to stand for a moment. "Let me prep you a table." Jungkook hurriedly got a towel and a sprayer.

Jimin laughed. "Don't worry! I don't mind." He went to look at the menu as Jungkook cleaned the tables.

"New neighbor hm? That house has been empty for a while now, why'd you choose it?" Jungkook could hear the two conversing as he worked.

"My parents are moving in, I'm just spending some time with them for the time being. They wanted to be back in their home city, and this was perfect for what they wanted."

"Ahh, makes sense. This side of town is rather nice, isn't it? Cold though. What would you like?"

"Let me make it!" Jungkook hurriedly prepped the tables and chairs.

"I'd like a muffin. Jungkook said he'd make me a drink though."

"Perfect. We'll give you one straight from the oven." Jaebum smiled as Jungkook came behind the counter, leaning a little closer to Jimin.

"I'll make you a nice drink, what do you like? Mocha, hot chocolate, something else warm?"

"You know what? I haven't had a hot chocolate in years, I'll take one."

"Perfect. Have a seat!" Jungkook smiled before going to work, the two heading in the back to make a batch of muffins and start some bread.

"You seem chipper this morning."

"Well...hyung, I'm horribly sorry, but I have to put in my two weeks notice...my parents finally said I have to work with my dad." Jungkook frowned. He felt bad; he really liked Jaebum.

"Oh fuck, I'm sorry Jungkook." He sighed. "Well, you've been a great help. Let's have a good last day."

"Okay. I...I'm really sorry, I wish it wasn't like this."

"No, it's okay." He sighed. "It's just your luck."

"Yeah." Jungkook frowned and sighed too. "It's just my luck."

They started their day, Jaebum starting to make muffins and Jungkook going to make a hot chocolate drink for Jimin. He stole some glances at him as he made his drink. He looked so... pretty. He was just reading, yawing sometimes, but he looked so comfortable and content. A calm morning...yeah. Jungkook wished he could have a calm morning. Just one.

He continued to steal some glances as he made his drink, going over to him when it was done. "Here you go."

"How much is it?"

"Oh don't worry. It's on me." Jungkook smiled a little as he set it down.

"Oh no no, I can pay for it."

"No, it's okay."

"No, let me pay for it."

"No, it's really okay."

"Let me, please."

"Try it first." Jungkook smiled and shook his head. "If it's good then you'll be coming back anyways." He went back to his job, helping Jaebum, and learning a little more about decorating.

Jimin came up to the counter after a while. "Well...I have to go...have a good day Jungkook. I'll text you later, okay? After we move in a bit."

"Oh, alright...um...sorry ahead of time, but I'm horrible at texting back. I really only have time in the morning and sometimes in the middle of the day."

"Ah...then knock on my door, someone will answer." Jimin smiled and put money on the counter.

"Hey, come on, it wasn't good?"

"It was delicious. I just want to support this place." Jimin smiled. "I'll see you later!"

Jimin left with a wave, Jungkook waving back with a smile.

"He seems nice. I'm glad there's someone your age, he-"

"He stole my beanie." Jungkook pursed his lips. "I...I'll just get it back later."

Jaebum laughed a little. "He lives close by, it'll be fine. Now, let me teach you a little something before you go."

Jungkook did have a good last day. He learned more about fondant, said goodbye to Jaebum, a couple coworkers, and got his stash of money before heading outside. He sat down outside, holding two drinks as he waited for Yeji.

It was a little colder now, Jungkook missing his beanie a tiny bit, but Jimin looked cute with it so he completely forgot.

He sighed shakily as he thought about what was going to happen to him now. He couldn't leave with all of his happening. Not with Jimin knowing him, god why did Jimin have to meet him?

Why was his luck so fucking bad?!

Jungkook felt his chest tighten when a car pulled up, Yeji rolling down the window and waving. "Jungkook! Let's go have fun!" He got up and handed her a drink through the window, before she opened the door and scooted over for him. "Wow, thank you! You didn't have to."

"Well, it's my last day so might as well." Jungkook gave a small smile. "Mom wants you to come for dinner still."

"Ah, I forgot to ask my parents."

"Don't worry, I'm sure our parents have been talking." They shared a look.

"Did they..."

"Yeah."

"Same." They both looked down. Yeji sighed. "Um...I..."

Jungkook shook his head. "Let's go somewhere nice, okay?" He tried to hint that they shouldn't speak in front of her driver.

"Okay, let's find somewhere nice." She looked on her phone, Jungkook checking his as well.

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Jungkook!!! It's Jimin, hopefully you get home safely. I forgot I had your beanie, I promise I'll give it back! T-T

Jungkook smiled a little at the emotes Jimin sent, all crying and apologizing.

"Okay we can go to this park, sound okay?" She showed him a picture and Jungkook nodded immediately.

"Works for me."

She shared the address with her driver before sighing.

"If it wasn't such a weird day I'd make you choose somewhere."

"I have no desire to go anywhere. I just like being out."

She sighed a little.

They got to a small park, the two taking their drinks with them.

They sat on a park bench, looking at each other in defeat. "I'm really young." She shook her head. "I thought it was going to be normal dating you."

"Me too." Jungkook looked away. "I thought we'd be fine."

"I thought we'd be fine too." Yeji sipped her drink. "Um...are we going to have to be engaged? We haven't even been dating for that long. I thought we'd have more time to date before anything like that, I really don't want to be anything more. Not that you're a bad guy! I just-"

"Yeji, I want this as much as you do." Jungkook shook his head. "I...I thought we had more time." Jungkook hated it so much. His whole life...he'd been running out of time. He didn't even have things to lose anymore. He held his bag tightly.

"What's in the bag Jungkook?" She spoke quietly, Jungkook feeling like crying. "You haven't taken it off, is...is everything alright?"

"I...I'm fine." Jungkook spoke equally as quiet. "I met my neighbor today and I just...I just really needed to get out my house."

"Hey, whenever you need a ride...we'll take you. My driver doesn't ask questions."

"But he reports. If my parents asked where I went he'd report me right away." Jungkook shook his head. "I'll find something but- but not if this is- not if this is happening." Jungkook bit down on his lip harshly. He couldn't cry about this, he couldn't cry. He was strong, he couldn't cry.

"My dad said you have the financial stability to make him proud. Isn't that fucked up?" She tried to lighten the mood.

"Mom said you're attractive and nice enough to make a good wife." Jungkook tried just as hard.

"My mom said you're handsome enough to make cute babies." She shuddered.

"My dad is just happy you have a nice family business. Fucked up...kids and money. I don't care about those things. I'd trade it all to be happy." Jungkook sighed, defeated. "Would you?"

"We could run away together."

"I can't, not anymore. I promised my neighbor I'd show him around...plus he stole my beanie, I need that." Jungkook sighed. "Besides, winter is a bad time to run away. We might die of frostbite in Seoul."

"How is he?"

"He's really nice. He walked me to work while their movers were working. He stayed a while too, just relaxing and reading. I...I don't want him to worry about me. I'd feel so guilty."

"Damn." She sighed. "...I think our entire families need therapy."

"Fuck, you think so?" Jungkook sighed. "Let me take your trash." He took her cup after they finished drinking, throwing it away for the both of them. "So." Jungkook sighed heavily as he sat down. "What kind of ring do you want?"

"Jungkook!"

"What? We might as well get shit we like."

"Jungkook..." she looked at him with sad eyes. "Are you really giving up?"

He raised an eyebrow. "Yeji, my parents don't listen to me. They hear me talk, then say what they want, and then make me do just that. I don't have a choice."

"Oh Jungkook...this isn't...this isn't-"

"Hey, Jungkook, is that you?" A familiar voice made Jungkook's head turn. A small group of his friends were there, but his closer friend came up to them.

"Oh, hey Jihoon! I didn't know you were going to be around."

"Wow, is this your girlfriend? She's hot, why haven't you introduced us before?" He gave her a smile, before giving Jungkook a look.

Jungkook gave a small smile and blush. "This is Hwang Yeji. Yeji, these are my friends, at least some of them. This is Jihoon."

Jihoon friend held out a hand to her. "Pleasure to meet you."

She shook it silently, bowing her head a little.

"Woman of few words? Ah, Jungkook's favorite kind."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Jungkook raised an eyebrow at him.

"You're a man of few words too!" He smiled, making Jungkook smile a little too. He'd always had a contagious smile. "Wanna go to the convenience store with us? We were about to get some drinks."

"Oh no, I've gotta head home soon."

"Aw, shame. We miss you man, but congratulations on the girl. Come over soon though, I've missed you." He winked at Jungkook before he nodded his head, his other friends following.

Jungkook waved goodbye with a small smile.

"...they're not good people Jungkook."

"He wasn't too weird, was he? He's just like that, I'm sorry." Jungkook apologized for him.

Yeji shook her head as she watched them go. "They give me bad vibes."

"Sorry."

"Are we good? Discussing it all I mean. Um...are we...not going to fight this? I can- I can argue for a little bit longer."

"It would...be best if...if I didn't fight it. I'm already doomed to a cubical, I might as well not make a huge deal about this."

"Oh god I'm sorry."

"Can't do anything about it." Jungkook sighed. "But I can try to put it off for a little bit. Okay?"

"Okay. Rich people suck." She shook her head.

"Yeah. We do suck."

They sat on the bench together for a while, watching the foot traffic and dogs that happened to be there at the moment, until it started to get dark.

Even then...they didn't want to go home. They shared one last look at each other before heading back to the car.

His ride home was silent, save for the radio, but Yeji and Jungkook couldn't bare to talk. Their was youth and happiness were slipping away every second; they couldn't even spare to look at each other.

When they got to his house, Jungkook gave a small smile. "Thank you for the ride."

"It was no problem. Please eat dinner." Yeji have an equally small smile.

"Sleep well." He bowed a little before checking his phone.

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Jungkook!~ my mom said you can come over any time you want!

Jungkook smiled a little at that before he put his phone in his pocket. He was garbage at answering anyways. He took a big breath before going inside his house. He put his keys on the hook and took off his shoes before making his way to his room.

"Jungkook, not so fast." His mother stopped him, making Jungkook wince before turning to her with a neutral expression.

"Hm?"

"How was your day? A hello? Anything before you run off to your room?" She stood in the kitchen, making something.

"H-hello..." Jungkook spoke quietly.

"How many times do I have to tell you to speak up? Fine, go ahead and get ready for dinner." She dismissed him, Jungkook turning and going to his room. He closed the door as quietly as possible before hurriedly unpacking his bag. He put his clothes away, nicely folded, before he stuffed his money in his hiding places again. His bag was empty now, so he put it in the closet before he got ready for dinner.

A quick shower, a change of clothes, and Jungkook was ready. He sent Jimin one text.

Jungkook
Hey, hopefully you don't mind irregular texts. You've still got my beanie, maybe I can go over tomorrow. Goodnight!

He thought that was sufficient.

He went out to the dinning room, setting the table before his mother could scold him for not doing it.

"Put your phone on the counter please." She found another thing to scold him for.

"Yes mom." Jungkook finished setting the table before doing so.

"Did you have a nice day?"

"It was fine. I put in my two weeks notice but he let me go today. I met up with Yeji too, so we talked a bit."

"Oh yeah? What did you two talk about?" She smiled a little, making Jungkook look away.

"Nothing in particular. You know she's...she's really young. Right out of high school. She should have more time before settling down." Jungkook tried to make this about her and less about him.

"Mm."

"Um, I also met the neighbors son. Did you happen to meet him too?" Jungkook tried to change the subject.

"I did. He seemed like a nice boy, a bit um, well, not to make assumptions, but he seemed quite girly." She spoke in that tone, that one that made Jungkook feel horrible.

"I'd rather not make assumptions. He was kind to me." Jungkook got bowls out for her.

"Well, I'm just saying."

Then don't. Jungkook didn't respond. He really didn't feel like getting yelled at tonight.

"I'm glad you're happy with Yeji." She changed the subject back to her, Jungkook taking the filled bowls to the table. "She's a good girl."

"Yeah." Jungkook sat in his spot. "She's great."

He would never be able to say it. He would never be able to get through to her, his father, and honestly probably not Yeji either. He couldn't tell his friends about this either.

He had no one to talk to.

His phone lit up on the counter, his mother checking it.

"Oh?"

"I um, I traded numbers with the neighbors son." Jungkook really hoped he wouldn't text back, but fuck, he seemed too nice. Perhaps simply too bored. "He insisted."

"Mmm." She dismissed it. "If you want to go over tonight you'll have to take your phone, okay? Come back before midnight."

"Alright...thank you."

"Of course."

Jungkook waited at the table, his father coming home soon. Maybe.

"Ah, oh no. It seems he won't be able to make it home tonight, let's eat then."

Jungkook felt mortified. "H-he's going to be late tonight?"

"Seems like it." She sighed. "Hopefully he doesn't go out drinking again."

Jungkook stared at his bowl of food, his appetite dying. "I can't." Jungkook spoke quietly. "I can't do- I-"

"Hm? Speak up."

"Can I go to my room?"

"Don't you want to eat?"

"I'm- I'm not that hungry." Jungkook shook his head. His stomach was in knots at the thought of eating at the moment. "Can I bring it to my room?"

She sighed. "I put so much effort into dinner."

"Sorry." Jungkook looked down, his hands in his lap. "I'll eat dinner with you tomorrow, I've just had a long day."

"No, it's fine. Go ahead." She gave a dismissal wave. "If you are going out tonight text me."

"Okay. Thank you." Jungkook took his bowl and went to his room. He closed the door quietly, exhaling slowly as he set his bowl down on his desk.

Fuck. Fuck this day was going so badly.

But at least he met Jimin. He seemed a little nice, although lonely, but hey, Jungkook was used to that feeling. There's a point where you get hyperaware of every single feeling that others feel, a point where you become hyper aware to emotions.

Jungkook could tell when his mother would lash out, when she would feel angry, or passive aggressive, or actually aggressive. He could tell when his father was going to snap at him or his mother, what he would feel when Jungkook spoke, every single little thing. Jungkook picked it all up and internalized it.

He wondered if Jimin really meant it.

Was he allowed whenever? He hadn't met Jimin's parents...god that sounded scary.

He didn't want to be home though...

He cleaned his room again, making sure that his parents wouldn't find anything if they came in, before getting a sweater on. He carefully made his way to the kitchen, once he was sure that his mother had gone to her room, and checked his phone.

Jungkook
Can I come over?

Jungkook waited, not going to go over without permission. He didn't want to feel like a burden. He couldn't possibly burden Jimin the first day of meeting him. Jimin replied nearly immediately, surprising Jungkook.

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Come over!!!

Jungkook smiled a little at the exclamation points. He thought it was cute that Jimin put the emote next to his name too.

He put on his shoes and texted his mother real quick before he left. He went next door, anxious to knock, his hand hovering between the doorbell and knocking. Maybe he should just text. Well, he was right here, maybe he should just knock. Unless they were a doorbell kind of family. Maybe he-

Jimin opened the door with a smile. "Come in!"

Jungkook bowed and came inside, taking his shoes off. "T-thank you for inviting me."

"Of course, I think we'll have a nice time together." He smiled. When Jungkook turned to him to say something, he put Jungkook's beanie on his head. "There we go. Sorry for stealing it, I forgot I had it until I was home."

"T-that's okay." Jungkook blushed a tiny bit at having Jimin this close to him. He was really...really handsome. "I don't mind."

"You must've been cold, that's all I could think about."

Jungkook smiled a tiny bit at the thought, but shook his head. "No, I was alright. Don't worry about it, okay?" He adjusted his beanie, smiling a little more when Jimin smiled.

"Okay. Have you eaten? I can make you something. Oh, and tell me if you need something to drink. Um..." Jimin seemed a little scattered. "My parents already went to bed, moving is hard, so what would you like to do? That is, if you're staying."

"I have to get home by midnight but...I can stay until then." Jungkook felt tired at the thought of going home. "So, what can we do in three hours?"

"So much! But for the sake of being quiet, we should probably go to my room. This house is a little echo-y since we haven't completely moved in yet." Jimin led him into the house, Jungkook following. "But it's nice...different, but nice."

"Mmm, this house always seemed nice, but I guess it's more about how lived in it'll feel, right?" Jungkook smiled a little more. Jimin seemed to be glowing with energy which made Jungkook feel warm and happy.

"Yeah, I guess you're right." Jimin smiled at him, making Jungkook look away a little. Prolonged eye contact seemed to be a little much at the moment. Jimin brought them to his room, closing the door before sitting on his bed. "There's not much unpacked right now, but it's nice, isn't it? Maybe I should invite your family for dinner, we can meet your parents better and have you over more."

"Well, why would you want to do that?" Jungkook looked around a little. Jimin had a lot more things than Jungkook did. Trinkets, souvenirs, paintings, pictures, and many other things. Jungkook took a look at them all carefully, picking them up to get a better look.

"I want to know you better? Besides, I think we would benefit from being good neighbors. I've always wanted someone my age to be my neighbor. If only I could've had a childhood friend that lived next door." He lamented playfully, falling back on his bed. "I don't mind if you play around with the Rubik's cube, it's messed up anyways."

Jungkook did pick up the Rubik's cube to play with, focusing on it a little. "I don't know if my parents will have time for that. If anything it would just be me and my mother." Jungkook tried to make something up. He didn't really want Jimin to meet either of his parents, even though he already had, but getting to know them would only make Jungkook look like a pity child. He didn't want Jimin to understand things about him yet...only that he would also like a friend.

"Then that would be fine too. She gave us a lovely dessert as a welcome, I think it would be really nice to give something back once we've moved in a bit more." Jimin sounded so happy, but Jungkook shook his head. She was already judgmental of Jimin, and he really didn't want her to know him either. If he could protect people from his parents, he would take the hit for them. It wasn't their fault that Jungkook's parents were harsh.

"She's usually busy too. I could ask but...maybe it would be best to not bother her."

Jimin sat up a little, looking at Jungkook. Jungkook could feel his eyes on him, but he didn't make eye contact. He didn't want to explain anything. "Let's play a board game." Jimin got up and went over to Jungkook, taking a look at the Rubik's cube. "Does that sound okay? We can play some music, play a board game, and get to know each other a little more." He smiled, trying to get Jungkook's approval of his plans.

"Yeah, that sounds nice. Whatever you'd like, I'm fine with."

"You're the guest! Usually guests choose what we do. But...I'll give you an exception tonight." Jimin smiled at him before leaving the room.

Jungkook really didn't know what to do.

He hadn't been to a friends house in a literal decade. Maybe even longer. And he was a kid, he didn't know what adults did together, what was he supposed to do? To say? How do you learn about someone? He'd only been forced to learn about people, particularly his girlfriend, but- but Jimin seemed so nice.

Jungkook awkwardly sat down on the edge of Jimin's bed, fiddling with the Rubik's cube as he waited. He really didn't know how to do this. How do you even make a friend? How do you bring things up, oh god wait, Jungkook didn't do anything cool. Jungkook didn't do anything at all.

He worked, and he slept. That was about it. Sometimes he hung out with Yeji, poor thing. She had no idea he was-

"Okay~ I'm back sorry that felt so long." Jimin came back with board games and snacks, Jungkook going over to help him immediately. "Oh, no I've got it, don't worry."

"You've got a lot of things there, let me help-"

"I've got it." Jimin smiled and put the handful of things on his bed. Jungkook put his Rubik's cube back. "Alright! Okay, let's have fun. I also brought some fruit, sorry we don't have too much right now."

"Oh no, that's okay." Jungkook sat on the edge of the bed again, unsure where to go or what to do or what to say. "If anything I should've brought something."

"Pshh, it's fine, don't worry about it." Jimin kept his smile and patted the bed. "Come on closer, I don't mind if you sit on the bed, it's barely even made. Do you wanna play a shorter game or a longer game?"

Jungkook carefully moved further onto the bed. "Well...I can play a long game. What um...what were you doing for college?" Jungkook hoped he sounded interested. He hoped he sounded normal.

Jimin got a game out, setting it up. "I went to a visual arts college, I majored in dance. It's more complicated than that but I'm tired." Jimin laughed a little. "I'm a try hard, so I have a couple minors as well. But yeah! I just graduated, helped my parents pick out a house in the summer and I'm living with them for the time being. Until I can find both an apartment with my friend and a job in Seoul, I'll be here. So it should be a little while."

"Wow, that's so cool." Jungkook smiled at him. "I can't imagine getting out of my high school and knowing what I want to do. I've never had a clue." He looked at the board game. "That's really cool."

"Well, there's always time to figure out what you want. Even when you're an old man, you can figure things out then too." Jimin put their pieces on the board. "What color do you like?"

"Blue is nice." Jungkook spoke softly.

"Perfect, I'll take red."

They started their game.

"So...you didn't go to college?" Jimin gave a small smile. "No judgement of course! I just wanna learn about you."

Jungkook nodded. "Yeah, no college. I don't like school, so getting out of high school was nice." He smiled a little. "But I had to work immediately when I became an adult. My parents said that I gotta learn how to be an adult."

"Well, I'm sure you have enough money to move out." Jimin shrugged.

"I don't. My money goes to the house since I still live here." Jungkook gave a small shrug back.

"Well, don't you have like, your own money?" Jimin questioned a little.

"Hm? Oh not really. I mean." Jungkook laughed a tiny bit, covering his mouth. "I hide what I can."

Jimin seemed surprised at this. "Hide?"

"Yeah. I'm used to that though, so I've gotten pretty good at it." Jungkook moved his piece on the board. "I've got quite a bit right now actually!" Jungkook stared at the board with a smile, before looking up at Jimin. "Your turn."

"...you can come over whenever you want, okay?"

"Thank you for the invitation." Jungkook kept his smile, looking back at the board.

"I mean it Jungkook." Jimin sounded serious.

"And thank you. It's your turn Jimin."

"Hyung. You can call me hyung." Jimin played, Jungkook feeling warm at the moment. Jimin was really nice.

"Thank you hyung." Jungkook smiled a little more at that. He hadn't had a friend in a while.

"Well, then besides at home, what do you do? I'm sorry you have to quit your job."

"Ah, no I knew it was coming." Jungkook shrugged as they continued to play. "My dads been bugging me about joining his work for years now, so it was only a matter of time before they made me." He gave a quiet laugh, covering his mouth with his hand. "But that's not in my control I guess. If I'm bound to be the boss in the end then that's that."

"Well...what do you want to do?" Jimin pouted a little. "What about what you want?"

"I want to please my father. He's worked so hard whereas I haven't. The least I could do is be a good son to him. And to my mother. They've worked so hard for me, you know? I gotta work hard for them too." Jungkook glanced at Jimin. "Are you happy with what you do?"

"Yeah. I really love dancing, it's all I've ever dreamed of. But I guess I understand where you're coming from, because no amount of money is going to make me better at dancing. That's work that I had to put in."

"Exactly! I don't really know what it's like to work hard yet, cause I was born with what I have. I think it's so cool that you've done hard work. One day I will, but...you know, you're right. Maybe I'll be an old man, but one day I'll put in the work." Jungkook smiled to himself at the thought. "One day."

"You're peculiar. Not in a bad way! Just...it's a change of pace." Jimin smiled at him, making Jungkook feel a little shy. "I'd like to get you out of your shell."

Jungkook gave a small laugh, covering it with his hand. "My shell? This is what I'm like though."

"Mmm, I don't believe it. I think there's more to you."

"Don't get your hopes up hyung. I really am just like this."

Jimin rolled his eyes with a smile, but Jungkook felt a little bad from it. Was he annoyed? "I think there's more to you. There's always more to a person. Besides, it's only been a day."

"Well...that's true." Jungkook nodded. "I hope you don't mind me coming over then."

"And going out! I want to see what's over here, and I'm certain you know places to go."

Jungkook nodded again. Jimin wasn't going to let him go. Perhaps after his time here, he'd learn to forget him. "Yeah, I know this place pretty well, I can show you around for a little bit."

"Until you start work?" Jimin raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah. Give or take two weeks." Jungkook shrugged. "That's a pretty good amount of time to show you around."

"Where are some of your favorite places?"

"Oh um..." Jungkook thought about it. "I'm not sure. Just that bakery I think. Even though it's a little expensive, everywhere else here is more expensive. People act like they're better than everyone else here...it's not my favorite place to be. But I'll show you some quieter places."

"Well, we do fit in, don't we?"

"Hm?"

"...we're both rich."

"I- I don't think that equals fitting in. I don't think I've ever fit in. I've just always had money." Jungkook glanced at him. "I don't think a lot of rich people have good hearts."

"Well, rest assured, we do." Jimin smiled at him. "My parents have a lot of care in their hearts, and they certainly passed it onto me."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. I've got lots of care in me. Enough to share." He ran a hand through his hair. "I guess that's something I like about myself!" He laughed a little. "Sorry."

"No no, that's fine. I'm glad you have something you like about yourself."

"I win." Jimin moved his piece.

"Ahh, I'm not amazing at this. I haven't played since middle school...maybe longer..." Jungkook tried to remember the last time he'd played games before.

"What? That's crazy! We have game nights sometimes, or we invite friends over for game nights. Do you guys do something like that?"

"Um...sometimes...sometimes my dad will invite friends over to drink." Jungkook pursed his lips, squinting a little as he tried to think. "That's about it."

"That's about it?"

"Well, sometimes I guess my mom goes out to her friends house, but not lately." Jungkook shrugged. He didn't feel like explaining that having just Jungkook and his father in the house was a bad idea...his mother was one of the only people that could make his father calm the fuck down, and Jungkook really hated being his punching bag.

"Aw, but what about you?"

Jungkook shook his head with a small smile. "I don't really have friends. They're mostly out when I'm busy, so I just work and keep myself busy. That's why I liked my job."

"...well, you're allowed over whenever you'd like. You could even stay the night! Well, maybe when this place is more put together, but yeah!"

"Oh! Oh, um, I'm really not- I don't think I could either way." Jungkook gave an apologetic smile, looking down and cleaning up the board game. "My mom doesn't like me staying over places." Jungkook felt bad about it. "Sorry."

"Aww, okay. Then come over a lot until your mom trusts us. Then maybe we can convince her to let you sleep over. My parents will do it. Oh! You need to meet them, come over tomorrow morning! If you can, that is."

"I should be able to. How early?"

"Mmm, late afternoon. Like, after breakfast, I'm going to sleep like a rock. We did so much moving today." Jimin put the boxed game on the floor.

"I could help with that. I can move boxes and stuff like that." Jungkook offered with a small smile. "Seems like you guys had a few more things to do."

"I'm sure my mom would love that." Jimin laughed a little as he laid on his stomach, his chin in his hands, elbows on the bed. "You just feeling helpful?"

"It's the least I could do since I wasn't here to help you settle in. At least my mother gave you something to eat, I wish I could've helped with the heavier things."

"Well, we've still gotta arrange things, so you can still be helpful, don't worry! We can feed you too, so don't worry." Jimin smiled wide at him, excited about the idea.

"Oh don't worry about food! I'm on a strict diet, so don't worry about feeding me."

"Oh? Why are you on a strict diet?" Jimin looked concerned for a moment.

"Ahh...um, well I do intermittent fasting, and I just gotta be careful of water intake. Um...I count calories and all that. You know, all that stuff." Jungkook tried to explain it. His mother was just really strict in what he ate.

"Ah...well, if you give me a guideline I'll just make something for you." Jimin nodded, relaxing onto his bed more. He gave a small stretch.

"You look tired, I should head home." Jungkook ignored his previous statement. "You've been working all day, I wish I could've helped more."

"Oh don't worry about it. Stay for as long as you can." Jimin patted the bed. "You can lay down. I wanna know more about you." He got his phone and put on some music, putting it on a speaker. "Any pets?"

"Nope."

"Favorite food."

"Mm...lamb skewers."

"Favorite color?"

"Blue? Black."

"Favorite place to be."

"Beach in the morning. It's cold and the sunrise is worth everything."

"Ooo, I haven't done that in a while. How about...favorite flavor?"

"Flavor? Hm...I'm not...too picky." Jungkook tried to think. "Maybe something soft, I've got a sensitive nose."

"Mmm, so maybe a vanilla?"

"Could be. As long as it isn't overwhelming." Jungkook moved a little to be more comfortable.

"Okay okay, favorite movie?"

"Ironman!"

"Then I'm guessing that's your favorite superhero too." Jimin laughed a little, making Jungkook smile. "What do you like about Ironman?"

"Well, he's himself and he doesn't let anyone decide how he should act. He learns how to be a better him, without even changing himself." Jungkook smiled. "Okay, how about your favorite color?"

"I like red and yellow."

"Okay...I haven't seen any pets here, but what animals do you like?"

"Oh I love both cats and dogs. I love a good cuddle. Dogs are so cute, but kittens...oh my god kittens..." Jimin smiled in thought. Even his eyes seemed to smile.

"Cute." Jungkook smiled before blinking. "T-they're really cute, but I think puppies are cuter." Jungkook blushed and looked away. Fuck, why was this happening? He needed to get his shit together...he couldn't do this again.

"But kittens are so tiny! Even tinier than puppies!"

"But puppies are just- you can just hold them, ya know?" Jungkook held out his hand. "They just fit and it's- it's cute." He desperately tried to cover himself. Fuck, he wasn't allowed to relax, especially not around someone new! What was wrong with him?

He'd never let this loose with a new person in so long, but god he probably looked desperate to make a friend. Fuck he probably looked so pathetic right now, awkwardly holding onto a conversation, trying hard but not doing well-

"Have you ever seen baby kittens? They're tiny. So tiny! Ah, we should get some pets. Is there any pet stores around here?"

"Um- down- downtown I think. Or you could find a breeder in the area."

"Any adoption centers? I'd rather buy from an adoption center or somewhere like that."

"Oh uhh...I'm not sure about that." Jungkook gave an apologetic smile. "All our neighbors have are purebred."

"Ah, I see. Well, I'd rather adopt a little guy who isn't as loved than a purebred. I'd rather buy three unloved puppies than one purebred." Jimin smiled happily. "Would you come over if I had three lovely dogs?"

"Mmm...maybe after work." Jungkook smiled a little back. Jimin looked so...happy. Relaxed, even, whereas Jungkook was sitting upright and being guarded.

He never knew when someone would hate him.

"Then that'll do. How about...favorite musician?"

"Oh gosh, how could I pick just one?" Jungkook shook his head.

"Okay fair. Then genre?"

"Um...I like...alternative? Indie ish? And I do like pop music, but my mom says I shouldn't listen to profanity and stuff like that."

"Well, hopefully you don't mind if I cuss." Jimin laughed a little, but his eyes weren't smiling like they were before. Jungkook didn't know what to think of it.

"I don't mind, of course."

Jimin yawned a little. "You can relax more you know."

"Well, I don't want to get so comfortable that I won't want to leave." Jungkook teased a little, though he meant it. He already wished he could stay. There was something so welcoming about Jimin that Jungkook just simply couldn't place. He couldn't place it at all.

"Aww, how sweet." Jimin smiled softly. "We've still got some time, wanna watch a movie or something?"

"Ahh, I don't want to put you to sleep. Someone's gotta lock the door behind me." Jungkook could tell how tired he looked, yet was still willing to have Jungkook be here. "You should sleep, you've worked hard today."

"You too." Jimin sat up, rubbing his eyes. "You've worked hard today too."

"Not as hard as you. It's not easy moving in to a new place." Jungkook watched Jimin sigh.

"Yeah, it's pretty hard. But still, you've worked hard too." Jimin gave a small smile. "You probably want to get home, don't you? It is getting late."

"Not in particular. I can just see how tired you look." Jungkook smiled back at him. "I'll text you in the morning, okay? See if I can help you guys out."

"Yeah, that sounds really nice. I think my parents will love the help." Jimin stood from his bed, Jungkook standing as well. Jimin led him to the front door as he talked to him. "Not too early though, we're going to sleep in. And tell me what you eat for breakfast, I'll make you something. Or I'll buy you something out. Can't have you doing labor for free."

"Oh really, don't worry about it. I'll eat before I come over." Jungkook tried to reassure him. "Okay?"

"Nope."

"No I mean it, don't worry about food. I don't mind working."

"Then I'll buy you a drink. My mother will kill me if I don't treat you to something." Jimin laughed a little. "I'll tell her I'll treat you though, so you won't feel awkward saying no." Jimin nudged him a little, gaining a smile from Jungkook.

"Thank you...that does make me feel better."

"Good." Jimin sighed. "Well...I guess I'll see you tomorrow." He opened the door for him.

"I'll see you tomorrow. Goodnight hyung...thanks for giving me back my beanie. I thought maybe you'd stolen it." Jungkook attempted at a joke.

Jimin laughed a little. "I didn't mean to, I promise!" He whispered loudly, poking Jungkook's chest before Jungkook saw a blush creep onto his cheeks. Jungkook assumed it was because of the cold outside. "I'll be more prepared tomorrow, I'm buying you something out."

"You really don't have to." Jungkook shook his head with a smile.

"I will. Goodnight Jungkook."

"Goodnight Jimin hyung. Thanks for inviting me over." Jungkook bowed a little and left, his smile not seeming to leave at the moment.

He entered his house quietly, turning his phone off and leaving it on the kitchen counter, setting his key on the key rack, and taking his shoes off.

He could hear his father in the living room with his friends, so he silently went to his room. He could always get to his room perfectly, knowing every creak and sound the house made, knowing how to make himself invisible.

He'd been good at that his whole life.

He carefully closed the door to his room, making sure the click was as quiet as possible before exhaling his breath.

He took a quick shower before getting into his bed. He curled up, his day having been made a little better. He liked the idea of hanging out with Jimin. He didn't seem like many of the friends he'd had before, not like the many many Busan men who wanted to be tough and hide all their insecurities.

He thought about his closer friend for a moment, before he though about Jimin again.

He wished he could spend the night at Jimin's instead.

_____

Jungkook ate breakfast in the middle of his parents arguing. The three sat at their table, Jungkook having explained that he was going to help their neighbors with some of the heavier lifting, but instead had gotten an earful.

"You can't just make plans like that, what if we had something?" His mother shook her head.

"We haven't even met the boy, how can we know if he'll be a good friend? You know how easily swept away you are with bad influences. You aren't still friends with that group of hooligans, are you?" His father glared. "They're no good for you."

"...Jimin is kind. He's not like them." He spoke quietly, his eyes moving down.

"Look at me when I talk to you Jungkook. Are you still friends with them?"

"No, just one of them. I don't- I don't talk to the others." He raised his gaze to his father.

"You shouldn't talk to any of them. They're no good."

"Then meet Jimin, please. He's much nicer. He just needs a friend for the moment. I'm going over there t-to help them, you should meet the family with me."

"I met them, they seem just fine." His mother lowered her voice. "But I mean it Jungkook, their boy seems rather feminine, I can't put my finger on it, but there's something off. I don't want you to spend too much time with him."

Jungkook looked at his bowl, unable to finish it. He wasn't hungry anymore. "...give him a chance..."

His father gruffly mumbled. "We might as well greet them as a family. It's the neighborly thing to do."

Jungkook checked his phone to see if Jimin had perhaps texted him.

"You'll see what I mean in a moment then dear, I don't think he'll be a good influence for Jungkook."

"Excuse me." Jungkook stood from the table. "I'm going to get ready to go." He wasn't acknowledged as he left, still hearing them talk.

"This is a good way to prove Jungkook is masculine at least. He can help move heavy things. How's their boy?"

"A twig."

He heard his father hum at that. "Nothing?"

"Nothing. I really don't think he's..."

Jungkook tuned them out at that. He couldn't stand to listen to it.

Jungkook
Mind if my parents come over to say hello?

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Not at all!!

Jungkook smiled at the text. He wished he could even begin to warn Jimin about his parents, but no words would be able to do it. Nothing could really prepare someone for his parents, nothing except be careful.

Jungkook had lived by those words his whole life.

Be careful.

Be careful of your weight, your steps make noise.

Be careful of your facial expressions, they can read them easily.

Be careful where you put your money, they'll find it if it's too easy.

Be careful who you text, and what you look up on your phone, they'll see it all.

Be careful of your words, father has a horrible temper.

Be careful.

Jungkook finished changing and making himself presentable, heading back out to the front door. He got some shoes on, his parents giving him a dissatisfied look.

"...is...there a problem?" Jungkook spoke quietly.

"No, we just think it's a bad idea for you to get close to him." They stood, making Jungkook look away.

"You need to learn how to speak up son. If you're going to work for me, you need to at least seem powerful. I didn't raise a weak son." His father wasn't even looking at him as he spoke, but the pain in Jungkook's chest still stung. Saying something so painful yet so offhanded always got to him.

"Yeah. I'll work on it." Jungkook got his keys and left first, knowing his parents were coming.

Fuck, fuck he hated it. Every morning, there was something new. There was always something new he did wrong. His tone of voice. His volume of speaking. Making eye contact. Staring. Whatever he did...it was never good enough.

Jungkook got to the Park's door, ringing the doorbell this time. He still wasn't certain if he should knock or ring the doorbell.

Jimin answered it with a bright smile, making Jungkook give a tired one in return. "Good morning!~" he chimed, making Jungkook smile more.

"Good morning hyung. Did you rest well?"

"I slept like a baby." Jimin grinned. He looked out the door, opening it wider when he saw Jungkook's parents coming. "Hello Mr. and Mrs. Jeon! It's a pleasure to meet you, please, come inside." He bowed low, not raising until the three of them had come inside.

"Thank you! We're delighted to have new neighbors, we thought we'd never have any. This house has been on the market for ages, what made you pick it?" Jungkook's mother gave a smile, one Jungkook knew was fake. She was judging right now.

Jimin simply smiled. "We thought it was perfect for being close to town but still remote. It's so nice here, isn't it?" Jimin led them to the kitchen, somewhere that was more put together.

His parents were there, both introducing themselves to Jungkook's family.

"Oh, thank you so much for the food yesterday, it made our moving in feel welcome. You should join us for dinner once we get settled in. Is this your son?" Jimin's mother seemed small, and happy, replicating Jimin. Jungkook smiled a little at the two next to each other.

"Yes, this is Jungkook. He's a smart boy; going to work for my husband starting next week." His mother smiled proudly, her hands on Jungkook's shoulders. Jungkook didn't know why she was lying...he wasn't smart at all.

"Oh lovely! Jimin here just graduated from college, with such high scores too!" His mother gushed happily, making Jungkook wish that were his mother instead. He wished his parents were proud of him like that.

"Oh? What's his major?"

The two mothers went to the dinning table to talk, while the two fathers gave each other looks, before Jimin's held out a hand.

"Nice to meet you."

"Same to you. Now, my apologies for leaving so early, but I have some business to attend to. Jimin...it was nice meeting you." His father gave Jimin a small smile before leaving the household. Jungkook felt horrible.

"So you're Jungkook. Jimin just about gushed over you all of yesterday and this morning."

"Dad! D-don't..." Jimin blushed red. "Don't embarrass me."

Jungkook couldn't stop his smile from growing. "Why is that? I'm just here to help, that's all."

"He was going on and on about how kind you were-"

"Dad." Jimin gave an embarrassed smile and a look that Jungkook didn't understand.

"Oop! Sorry. Let's get to work, hm? We're going to move the couch first."

Jungkook ended up helping for many hours. His mother headed home eventually, while Jungkook helped move couches, bed frames, mattresses, dressers, and many, many heavy boxes. By the time he'd finished, he was in his tank top, having had to take off his sweater, and eating at their table, unable to say no to Jimin's mother.

"Thank you so much dear, that means so much for us. I'm not exactly the strongest." Jimin's mother seemed jolly, in a way that made Jungkook able to relax.

"It's not a problem at all, I'm glad I could help. If you decide you wanna change things up I'm more than willing to help again. Hyung, I didn't arrange your room very well, so I can help you with that too." Jungkook smiled at them.

"I'd appreciate that." Jimin smiled at him, making Jungkook look down with a small blush. He was already flushed from moving things though, so it probably didn't look too bad.

"How can we ever thank you enough? That would've taken us days." Jimin's father shook his head. "You didn't even let Jimin break a sweat." He teased, making Jungkook laugh a little.

"There was no need. I can do heavy lifting."

"Perfect for me. Still up for a small outing? I promised a drink." Jimin smiled at him, leaning on his hand to look at Jungkook.

"Oh um- well, you really don't have to-"

"I want to. Only if you aren't too tired though."

"Umm...sure. Yeah, I've still got energy."

"Lovely."

Jungkook couldn't look at Jimin's eyes. He seemed to really take him in, Jimin's eyes looking over him innocently, but definitely looking. Jungkook couldn't help but wonder if he liked guys with muscles, or guys at all. He wanted him to. Fuck he had to fucking stop his bullshit.

He was being weird for hoping that.

"You've eaten enough? There's more."

"Oh no I'm full, thank you." Jungkook gave a weak smile.

"Wanna head out then?" Jimin's eyes were still on him, Jungkook nodding.

"Sure. Thank you so much for the food." Jungkook stood and bowed.

"Thank you for helping us out dear. We appreciate the warm welcome so much. Tell us if you ever need anything, okay?"

"Thank you." Jungkook got his sweater back on, Jimin getting a coat and a beanie on.

"Alrighty~ we'll be back whenever."

"Come home for dinner at least, we're making something big. Jungkook, you should join us if you can."

"I'll think about it. I might have to head home." Jungkook shrugged as he got his shoes on.

"Okay~ we'll be home later!" Jimin pushed Jungkook out the door. "If we stay they'll talk to us forever, they're going to adopt you." Jimin laughed. "Ignore my dad though, he likes teasing me."

"Oh that's more than fine. Teasing is much nicer than being mean."

"Is your dad mean to you?"

"You met him." Jungkook smiled a little. "He's strict."

"He seems a little too strict. He certainly made me feel mmm...self conscious."

"I'm so sorry, he's really judgmental, I'm sorry you felt self conscious. You shouldn't, really, just be yourself." Jungkook looked at him apologetically.

"Hey...don't apologize for him." Jimin nudged him. "He's gotta apologize for himself, cause if he's sorry then he's gotta do it himself." He nodded in conclusion. "It's a little late, what kind of drink would you like to get?"

"Oh...it doesn't matter to me. I'm not picky."

Jimin rolled his eyes playfully. "You haven't been picky about anything but food so far."

"Well, if it makes you feel better I'm picky about drinks too."

Jimin laughed. "Just not where we go?"

"Yeah. I don't like bitter drinks that much."

"Ahh, neither does my friend. He hates when our hyung makes coffee, he can't stand the taste." Jimin laughed a little. "One time my hyung, his name is Min Yoongi, one time he made coffee for us and told my best friend, his name is Kim Taehyung, that it was sweetened a lot, so he gave it a try and the look on his face-" Jimin laughed loudly. "Taehyung spit it out so fast!"

Jungkook smiled at Jimin laughing. He looked so happy...Jungkook wished he had friends. "He dislikes it that much?"

"He hated it! I've tried to get him to drink beer with me but he hates that too. But Yoongi hyung likes whisky so I've got someone to drink with at least."

"You drink?"

"Do you not?"

"N...no..." Jungkook sighed a little. "My parents don't want me to...lest I become like my father." He laughed a tiny bit to try and lighten the mood. He'd drank a bit before, though he would never tell his parents. But he could tell Jimin. He saw Jimin going to protest but he cut him off. "But...I like the fruit drinks. And wine is nice too."

Jimin gasped. "Oh? You went against your parents?"

"I'm 21, I'm allowed to drink...just not at their house." Jungkook smiled. "My friend and I drink sometimes. I haven't been able to do that with him in a while though, cause my parents don't like him."

"Aww, why? Do they think I'm a bad influence too?"

"They do." Jungkook nudged him carefully. "They think everyone I meet is a bad influence. Except for girls."

"Oh god, that sounds bad." Jimin looked at him in shock. "Even me? I'm such a good son though!"

Jungkook laughed. "Yeah, even you. Even though you're a good son, smart, handsome, and successful, they'll think it."

"You think I'm handsome?" Jimin gave an honest smile.

"W-well, who doesn't?" Jungkook tried to save himself.

"Well, to even the playing field, I think you're handsome too."

"T-t-thank you." Jungkook hated his stutter, he wished he was cooler. "Um, that's very nice of you."

"Aww, do you not get complimented much? How cute! If you don't mind it, I'll spoil you. Wanna grab a drink?"

"N- it's too early for alcohol. Besides...I don't want my parents to think you'll actually be a bad influence." Jungkook gave a shy laugh.

"Why do they think I will be one?" Jimin looked at the stores they were passing, wondering what to get. "Maybe just a convenience store drink...they have good choices..."

"Um..." Jungkook didn't know how to explain it. "They think...well, actually I don't want to offend you, sorry."

"No no, I wanna hear it." Jimin pulled them into a convenience store, the two getting drinks.

Jungkook whispered to him. "They think you're too feminine." Jungkook hoped. He hoped, he wished, he prayed that Jimin would prove him wrong.

Jimin stopped reaching for drinks. "O-oh? Do they? I'm- I'm just a dancer, I'm not- I'm not um...you know."

Jungkook felt his chest tighten. "Yeah me neither...they just...you know. They assume a lot." Jungkook gave a fake laugh and picked a drink, not looking at Jimin. What was he really expecting? Every boy from Busan was the same, really.

"...nothing wrong with that though." Jimin spoke quietly.

Jungkook didn't answer, just let it sit between them as they got what they wanted and Jimin paid.

Their walk out of there was slightly awkward before Jimin sparked conversation again.

"So...if you were to go to college, if, what would you wanna try? Where's the nearest place to sit?"

"Probably the park."

"Nice. So?"

"Well...I always wanted to be in the arts. I had a camera for a while, and I always wanted to draw, or dance, or make music. Even just music videos would be fun. You know, something artistic, something with my hands, something to keep me moving." Jungkook realized he gushed, speaking passionately. "Sorry."

"No no, that sounds like a lot of fun. I could teach you some dance if you'd like? Though, my type of dance included much more flexibility than what you demonstrated today."

"More than that? Lunges are hard with muscles." Jungkook shook his head, slightly bewildered.

"We keep busy in different ways." Jimin gave him a glance, one Jungkook avoided. He was only out to one person, he couldn't let Jimin figure him out. Only Jihoon knew, and that in its own was complicated.

"Makes sense. My dad has a gym in our house so I might as well use it, no?"

"Oh wow! That's cool."

They arrived at the park, the two finding a bench. "It's fine. It's a little scary in there." Jungkook laughed a tiny bit, opening his drink. "It's so quiet without music."

"Why wouldn't you have music?"

"Well, I use the radio, so it's alright."

"...you don't play music on your phone?"

"No..." Jungkook tried to come up with his best lie. "By the time I workout my phone is dying and I have to charge it upstairs."

"No output in your gym?" Jimin looked confused, Jungkook shaking his head.

"It's a work in progress."

"Gosh I can't imagine working out without music."

"That's why I'm not super strong yet." Jungkook laughed.

"That's crazy..." Jimin shook his head.

"Eh, I work with it. Like most things." Jungkook shrugged and drank a little of his drink before he heard his name being called.

"Jungkook! Hey, good to see you again!" It was Jihoon, making Jungkook smile happily.

"Hey Jihoon! Around here again?" He leaned forward a little on their bench as he came closer. He could see his other friends playing basketball.

"Yeah, you know my dads store is right around the corner. Who's this?" He gave Jimin a small look, one Jungkook missed.

"This is-"

"I'm Park Jimin, it's nice to meet you. I just moved here, I'm Jungkook's neighbor now."

"Ahh, a new neighbor hm? Well, you should come over again Jungkook, text me back at least. I've missed hanging out." He punched Jungkook's shoulder softly. "Mk? If you want, you two should join our game." He nodded to the basketball court.

"Oh, I'm not very good." Jimin gave an embarrassed smile. "Not my expertise."

"Jungkook?"

"Wanna meet my friends?" Jungkook gave Jimin a small smile. He hoped he didn't look desperate to hang out with Jihoon. He really hoped.

"Sure. I'll just watch though, I won't join the game."

"Nice!" The two got up, Jihoon getting in between them and putting his arm around Jungkook's shoulder. "Jungkook hasn't played much either, so he'll probably suck. Though that won't matter, he's stupidly good at being perfect at things."

"Ah, that's...not true." Jungkook blushed.

"Don't be so modest! You're fucking great at everything, it only takes you a couple tries to be good at something new." Jihoon boasted about him.

Jungkook looked down, embarrassed, feeling Jihoon pull him a little closer.

"So, what're you doing moving here?" Jihoon asked Jimin.

"My parents own a fashion business and they wanted to move somewhere a bit closer."

"Sick. What about you?"

"I'm here till I find a place in Seoul." Jimin shrugged. "It's a bit harder than I thought."

"Well good luck! I've heard the apartments are tiny." Jihoon looked at Jungkook.

"But the food it good." Jungkook smiled. He liked Jihoon a lot; he had a nice smile, good genetics, and really soft hair. He had muscles to die for, a lovely physic, and- Jungkook looked away, embarrassed at his staring. Jihoon grinned.

"I can agree with that." Jimin laughed a tiny bit, before they got to the basketball court.

"Hey guys! Meet Park Jimin, he's Jungkook's new neighbor. He's gunna watch, so let's play our best!" Jihoon yelled to their group, the group bowing and saying hello.

Jungkook set his drink down by Jimin once he sat on the bench, then took off his sweater. "You'll be fine just watching?"

"Oh yes, I'll be just fine. Little entertainment to finish the day." Jimin smiled at him, again, Jungkook thinking he was looking at his arms.

Jungkook smiled. "I'm going to be terrible."

"You'll be fine!" Jihoon tugged him to the court.

Jungkook did do fine, remembering more than he thought, and having more stamina than most of them.

"It's cheating to have Jihoon and Jungkook on the same team, they're too good!" One of his friends complained, making Jungkook laugh.

"You just suck!"

"You haven't even played in months, come on!"

"He's a natural." Jihoon put his arm around Jungkook's shoulder again. "What can I say? He's a natural at everything." He said the last sentence quietly, just for Jungkook to hear, before he blew in Jungkook's ear, making him blush and move away.

"Jihoon..." Jungkook felt flustered. "Not here." He spoke quietly.

"Shame."

"One more game!"

"Oh no no, I've gotta head home." Jungkook went to Jimin, getting his drink. "Was it fun to watch?" Jungkook took a big drink, thirsty after exerting so much energy.

"It was nice to watch. You're good." Jimin smiled at him, Jungkook getting his sweater back on.

"Thank you! I'm glad I could at least entertain you." Jungkook smiled at him. He felt good at the moment, having not been around people he liked in a while. And Jimin was a pleasant plus, though, he was mostly happy to see Jihoon.

"Ready to head home?"

"Yeah...I'm ready." Jungkook really didn't want to go home, but...it is what it is. "Thanks for the drink hyung, I'm glad you're getting me out of the house."

The two started to leave, before Jihoon made them stop.

"Not even a goodbye? Cruel, how could you." He was being playful, but he did stick his hand out to shake Jimin's. "It was a pleasure to meet you. Next time you should join us! We'd be happy to teach you how to play, and if you're on our team, you'll win." He whispered the last part before laughing.

"I'll...consider it."

Jimin and Jihoon shared a look, one Jungkook didn't understand, before Jimin broke eye contact.

"Jungkook, really, stop by again. I've missed hanging out with you." He gave him a soft punch in the shoulder.

"I'll try."

"Well, say hi to Yeji for me, you'll probably hang out with her before you do me." He teased him again before saying bye.

Jimin and Jungkook started to walk home.

"What was that all about?" Jungkook gave Jimin a look. "He wasn't being weird, was he?"

"It wasn't anything? I don't know what you're talking about." Jimin looked at him equally confused. "He just comes off strong...but I can see why you'd like him. He's someone you'd think of as a good leader, you know?"

"Aw, you calling me a follower?"

Jimin laughed a tiny bit. "Maybe."

"Well, you're not wrong." Jungkook smiled a little. His energy was definitely higher now than it had been in a while. "But hey, it was fun! Jihoon is a nice guy, I hope you two can get along. He seemed a little...antagonizing today, sorry."

"Mm...nothing I can't handle." Jimin bumped their shoulder together softly. "He just seems a little protective of you, which isn't anything bad! I can understand why he would be."

"Well, yeah. He's tried really hard to keep my head above the clouds. My parents really don't like him though."

"Who's Yeji by the way?" Jimin smiled at him, making Jungkook feel anxious.

"She's a friend of mine."

Fuck. Fuck, why was he like this? Why did he always lie? Why did he want Jimin to like him? He'd already lied so much...Yeji was his girlfriend. He was fucking gay. Why couldn't he just say it?

"Nice! Do you need to go home or can you stay longer? Unless you'd like to go home, that's cool too!" Jimin smiled at him.

"I can...text my parents?" Jungkook gave a weak smile. He wanted to stay out of his house for as long as possible.

"Cool! We could actually watch a movie this time, though I'm not the one who worked hard today." Jimin hummed to himself. "...thank you a ton Jungkook. It really does mean a lot to us that you've helped. Moving is hard."

"How're you doing?" Jungkook looked at him a little. "With moving I mean."

"...well...it kinda sucks to move out of your childhood home. But I guess I'm older and they're going to retire sooner than later, so it all makes sense. It just...kinda sucks."

"Well, I can't make that feel any better, but I can help you feel welcomed here." Jungkook wasn't sure how to comfort him, unsure what type of comfort Jimin needed, but by god he would be here for him. He knew what it was like to feel alone and sad, and empty. He knew how horrible those emotions felt, so if he could...he was going to try and help him feel less of it. "If you ever need someone to talk to, or hug, or to just listen to you...I'll be there, okay?" He bumped their shoulders again, staying close.

Jimin looked at him with a wide grin. "Really?"

"Yeah. I'm just next door. And when I start work again...then I can try and hang out afterwards. If I'm not out." Jungkook smiled at him, matching Jimin's grin. He rather liked him, liked how he smiled, how he spoke, how soft and high his voice was casually, and how loud and excited it could get.

He wanted to learn more about him.

He really did.

"Well...I will gladly accept your offer. And if you need to come over at 12, so be it. If you need to come over at 1 in the morning I'll answer the door. Okay? As much as you are willing to comfort me...I'm willing to comfort you. My door is open to you." Jimin softened his gaze. "Okay? Both ways." Jimin bumped their shoulders, staying close.

"I- okay." Jungkook spoke in nearly a whisper as he leaned closer.

Jimin was coming on hard. In what way though, Jungkook wasn't sure. They had both stated they were straight without saying it, yet here they were, smiling at each other, noses close, their breath puffing clouds of coldness.

Jungkook pulled back first, looking away and trying to forget Jimin's eyes.

They walked silently after that, Jungkook feeling his phone buzz.

A couple texts from Yeji, that's usual. A couple from Jihoon. He should go over soon...he could use the break from his parents. And a couple from his parents. He answered those, as he wondered if there was a way to convince Yeji for a half day out and then head to Jihoon's. Of course, without telling his parents.

His parents would kill him, literally kill him, if they found out what he does at Jihoon's house.

They got to Jimin's door.

"Well...you're welcome inside." He gave a small head nod to his door.

"Not sick of me yet?"

"Come over tomorrow." Jimin smiled. "I enjoy the company."

"You just want me to arrange your room."

"That too."

"Goodnight hyung."

"Goodnight Jungkook."

Jungkook waved before going to his door, taking a small breath and letting it out. He went inside, not hearing his parents out and about, so he carefully made his way to his room.

His room looked untouched this time, as he inspected it like he usually did.

He took a quick shower, got ready for bed, and laid down.

He wondered what Jimin was thinking about. Wondered if Jimin thought about him the way Jungkook wanted him to. He wondered if Jimin liked his muscles, his face, his body. Hell, if Jungkook had anything, it was a good body. If that's what he could be complimented on, then he wanted it.

____

Jungkook did help Jimin arrange his room the next day. Early, that is. He had an outing with Yeji planned, and his parents wouldn't let him miss it.

"Is this good?"

"A little to the left." Jimin sat on the bed as Jungkook arranged a desk, a dresser, and boxes of clothes for him. He'd already arranged the bed and mattress the previous day.

Jungkook adjusted it. "Better?"

"Mm...tiny bit to the left- wait- too much- perfect! Right there."

Jungkook plopped on his bed, sinking right in. The memory foam was nice to rest on. "Picky picky."

"You agreed."

"I did. I'm glad I can help." Jungkook smiled at him, then checked his phone. "But I do, sadly, have to go. I've got a busy day today." Jungkook sighed as Jimin pouted. "I can't stay longer, I'm sorry."

"You got up this early just to help me?" Jimin looked shy. "Thank you..."

"Don't mention it. Now, I've promised my friend breakfast, so I've gotta get going." Jungkook stood and stretched his arms, before looking down at Jimin. "You can boss me around another day, if you ever feel like moving this around. Now put your clothes away hyung, you'll feel better once it's done."

Jimin laughed a little. "Thank you Jungkook."

"No problem." Jungkook bowed before leaving, saying goodbye to Jimin's parents and heading out. He saw Yeji's car waiting in front of his house. "Oops..."

Jungkook headed over, getting inside.

"Neighbors house?"

"I've been helping them move in."

"Ahh, okay. You're too kind, you know that?" Yeji smiled at him, making Jungkook look away.

"I like helping. It feels...accomplishing." He felt bad. Today was not about Yeji. Today was about using her as an excuse to hang out with Jihoon and then later Jimin. Yeji was an excuse for Jungkook to hang out with people he actually liked.

He felt horrible about it, really, he did. But he didn't know how to stop himself from wanting someone else...wanting to know someone else. Wanting to know someone who he was actually interested in, wanting a relationship he actually chose to be in, one he actually wanted.

Jungkook had to convince himself that what he was doing was okay. It wasn't, but it was.

Yeji talked to him for a bit more, though Jungkook didn't really take it in. He was barely listening, barely focusing.

He brain felt fuzzy today.

____

Jungkook had a complicated relationship with Jihoon.

Jungkook called it cheating on his girlfriend.

Jihoon called it friends with benefits.

"We aren't dating, so it's fine! It's not like the two of you could fuck, you're such a bottom."

Jungkook simply agreed with him. After accidentally outing himself one time, Jihoon had said they should experiment, and from that time about a year ago, they had continued to...experiment.

Jungkook was happy that at least something about him was appreciated. If that was only his body, then that was okay. At least Jihoon was kind, and handsome, and called him beautiful.

At least he was kind to him. He didn't need to call it love to be satisfied...that's what this was, right? Being satisfied? At least content. He was at least content.

It was okay that his relationship with Jihoon wasn't normal. He wasn't normal, nothing about Jungkook was normal. He wasn't anything his parents wanted, not a single thing.

But at least Jihoon was kind to him, at least he called him beautiful, at least he was there.

Jihoon was odd, but so was Jungkook. They had two rules, ones that they both needed.

1. They must be intoxicated, in one way or another.

2. Jungkook had to go home afterwards.

So Jungkook made his way home, the walk not being too far, but he could tell he might be a little sore the next day. He had drank quite a bit on accident, so he hoped this walk would wake him up a bit.

It was definitely getting cold, he could tell that much. He could tell that it was going to stop being fun to walk around to and fro in about a week, but then again...he probably wasn't going to go many places after he started work again.

He hung his head as he got on his street. He hated it. He hated it here, he hated it so much.

He had to find another way out. After Jimin left, he could leave too. Though, he wouldn't want it to think they left together, so maybe a little after.

He'd been doing this for years, he could suffer a little more.

Just a little more.

"Jungkook?" Jimin's voice pierced the air, making Jungkook snap his attention to him.

"Hyung?"

"What're you doing walking home in the dark?"

Jungkook tried to clear his head. "Mm...walking."

"Oh boy, that's not good." Jimin shook his head and threw out the trash. Jungkook realized that's what he was doing now. Okay so maybe he was still a little drunk. He didn't mean to have another drink afterwards.

"I'm...I'm fine, the walk um- the walk helped." Jungkook rubbed his eyes. "They're probably asleep anyways."

"Then come inside for a bit, sober up before you go inside." Jimin smiled at him. "We've got medicine and water."

"No no, I'm okay. Lemme just...lemme just sit down...for a minute." Jungkook held his forehead as he slowly sat on the sidewalk, nearly just dropping to his knees.

Jimin gave a small laugh. "Jungkook...just come inside."

"No no, I don't want to um...intrude. Or...um- um disrupt."

"You're not. I'm inviting you inside." Jimin sat next to him, much more delicately.

Jungkook shook his head.

"Okay, then I'll wait here for you. What'd you do today?" Jimin put their shoulder together, Jungkook rubbing his face to try and wake up.

"You don't gotta stay..." Jungkook hit his forehead with his fist softly. His head hurt a lot.

"I want to. Let me convince you to go inside, it's cold out here and you aren't wearing a beanie for me to steal." Jimin giggled, making Jungkook turn to him.

"You've got...you've got a really nice voice, did you know that?" Jungkook smiled at him. "You've got....a really nice voice."

"If it's so nice, then let me coax you into coming inside." Jimin hummed happily.

"Oh no no, I've had my fill of that." Jungkook laughed, blushing a little. "Lemme stay here for a bit, the um, the cold'll help."

"Some water would help too."

"Yeah but...I'd have to um, go inside your house."

"My parents are in bed? If that makes you feel better? We can just chill in the living room that you so graciously helped set up."

Jungkook laughed. "I did do that, didn't I?"

"You did. Might as well sit on the couch you helped arrange, no?"

"Mmm...tempting since you'll be there." Jungkook closed his eyes and leaned against him. "Sorry...bout this. Didn't expect you to be out here."

"No no...I like it. It's nice to see you looser. I knew you had more to you. I like your laugh...it sounds more joyous than before." Jimin put his hand on Jungkook's knee. "Am I convincing you to go inside?"

"Mmm...what um- what time is it?" Jungkook was really trying to clear his head.

Jimin giggled again. "Last I checked it was almost 11pm. If you gotta be home by midnight then you've got an hour to sober up. Didn't take you as a drinker, sorry, this is kinda funny for me."

Jungkook laughed a little too. "Well, 'm trying my best okay? I had one too many, that was my bad."

"You're going to feel it tomorrow." Jimin got up, making Jungkook pout a little. "Alright, come on, let's go inside."

"Awww, hyung." Jungkook whined. "I'll feel bad."

"You look bad. Come on." Jimin held out his hand, Jungkook looking up at him.

"...it's okay...I'm- I'm feeling better now." Jungkook took Jimin's hand, planning on letting go and going to his house, but somehow he ended up on Jimin's couch. "Wait-"

"Here." Jimin puttered around, being a little quiet as he got water and medicine for Jungkook. "It'll help, I promise, I use it."

Jungkook laughed a little, covering his mouth. "You drink a lot?"

"It tastes good, yeah. Not too much though." He flicked Jungkook's forehead. "I'd advise not drinking too much again."

"Ow! I didn't mean to, I really didn't!"

"What did you and your friend end up doing?"

"Oh, you know. Had breakfast." Jungkook smiled and giggled a little, taking the medicine and drinking the water given. "But then I hung out with Jihoon, so yeah." Jungkook looked down with a stupid grin. "He's fun."

"He seems like a lot of fun." Jimin took the medicine back before sitting next to him.

Jungkook could immediately tell that something was wrong by the way Jimin sat down. "Do you...not like him? My friend doesn't like him either...neither do my parents. Do I have bad taste in friends?"

"What? No no, nothing- I didn't say anything bad about him." Jimin sounded shocked, Jungkook still looking down. He put his hand on the back of his neck, his eyes going wide. Jihoon probably left a cheeky hickey on his neck...otherwise Jimin wouldn't have seemed so upset? Uncomfortable? Sad? No. He was disappointed in him, wasn't he. "He seemed like a fun guy to be around." Jimin spoke quietly.

Jungkook stood up, trying to calm himself. "I have to go home, I'm sorry for intruding."

"Jungkook-"

"I have to go home hyung, thank you for your hospitality, I'm sorry." Jungkook rushed out of there, hearing Jimin call out to him softly as he went.

Fuck. Fuck. He needed to stop drinking. He had to stop being comfortable around new people. He had to stop being comfortable. He had to stop being himself.

He struggled to get his keys out of his pocket, then struggled to put them in the keyhole. He felt his eyes start to water.

He didn't want Jimin to find out. He especially didn't want Jimin to hate him.

He sounded so disappointed in him.

It was safe to say that Jungkook did not sleep well that night.

____

Jimin felt furious. He knew for sure that Jungkook was gay, hoping to god that he was single, cause fuck was he cute.

Somehow, Jungkook couldn't tell he was queer too. How could he not? He was a dance major, he did not dress modestly, he was actively flirty, carefully, but it seemed Jungkook was able to pick up on a lot of things easily. So why couldn't he tell! Why couldn't he tell something Jimin was not trying to hide.

He stared at his closet angrily. He'd watched Jungkook's parents leave the house without Jungkook, but he wasn't answering his texts.

So if Jungkook was going to ignore him, Jimin was going to go directly to him in his best clothes, with food that he'd carefully made the night before according to Jungkook's meal plan, and determination. A lot of determination.

He wore something a little revealing, but still wore a coat over top, knowing it was going to be cold.

He headed down, his parents wrapping up the box of food he'd prepared with a bow. "This is for Jungkook, right? I put a small treat inside, I couldn't help it." His mother chuckled.

"Thank mom, you're an angel." Jimin kissed her forehead and took the box. "I'll be back, hopefully with Jungkook in tow."

"He sure is a cute one." His mother giggled a little. "No?"

"Oh he is!" Jimin smiled at her. "Love you, I gotta go!"

"Tell him we say hi!"

Jimin happily went to Jungkook's house, having texted him enough times to prepare him that he was coming over.

He rang the doorbell and waited.

Whatever was fucking happening he wasn't going to allow it to continue. He wasn't really sure, but he could take a guess at Jungkook's reaction last night.

Yeah, Jimin was a little sad about Jungkook seeing someone else, but hey! That's life, and he had to clear things up.

He rang the doorbell again.

Jungkook sheepishly opened the door, barely enough to see his face. "G...good morning hyung..." he broke eye contact immediately. "Do you need something?"

"Yeah, I'd like to eat breakfast with you." Jimin lifted the box. "I saw your parents leave, so I'm sure there's no problem?" He smiled, tilting his head a little.

"O-oh..." Jungkook pursed his lips. "W-well, I-"

"You've got anything today?"

"N..no...but!-"

"No buts! Let me explain some things. Please." Jimin continued to smile. Jungkook looked like he had barely woken up, probably due to his drunken state last night.

"I- okay. It's cold out there, sorry." Jungkook opened the door for him.

Jimin felt immediately out of place. This- this place was empty. No life whatsoever. There were no scratches or marks, or any sign of life, save for a couple plants here and there. The kitchen was white. The living room was brown. The floor was terrifyingly clean.

"We can go to my room, it's um...more comfortable." Jungkook noticed Jimin's looking about before hanging his head again. "I'm really sorry about yesterday, I really am. I- I really shouldn't drink."

Jimin watched Jungkook sit on the edge of his bed, his head hung. "Well, if I'm being honest, it was really cute to hear your real laugh. I liked how honest you were with me." Jimin set down the box on Jungkook's lap. "I like your voice too."

"God, I'm sorry." Jungkook looked up at him for a moment, his eyes a little watery, before looking down at the box. "I'm...I'm really sorry..."

"Oh, don't be! I enjoyed the company." Jimin took off his sweater and sat next to Jungkook. "You don't have to apologize for anything, okay? Nothings wrong. You didn't do anything wrong."

"Well that's a fucking lie." Jungkook bit his lip, Jimin wishing he could say it without saying it.

"Jungkook, I don't care if you have a girlfriend or a boyfriend. If you're happy in the relationship, then that's what matters. If you're happy with the relationship it doesn't matter. I was raised in a very accepting family, okay? So don't be sorry."

Jungkook looked at him, then his exposed chest, then back down. Jimin could see a small blush creeping onto his cheeks. "I'm...we aren't dating..."

"But are you happy?"

"I...yeah. Yeah. I am."

"Then that's what matters. Okay? Don't feel sorry." Jimin smiled as Jungkook's blush got darker.

"I do feel sorry. I'm sorry you found out." Jungkook started to play with the cloth on the box.

"Jungkook, it's really not that big of a deal."

"Hyung...I was not raised in a place where what I am is okay." Jungkook took a small breath, then let it out. "I'm not confident like you are. I'm not- I'm not going to be able to be happy because my parents won't understand. I feel like it would be better...if I just...if you just forget about all of this."

"No! No, be proud of yourself!" Jimin shook his head. "It's hard work and you're doing it! I'm sorry that you don't have a place to be you, but I have a place for you to be you! Just- just come over more. We can seriously get to know each other now, I'm-"

"Hyung." Jungkook looked at him. "I have to stop letting myself be me."

Jimin laughed in disbelief. "What? No way! I like when you're you. Like I said, it was nice to see you act so- so normal yesterday. And it was nice to take care of you. You're so composed, but it was nice to see you let loose a little. So no, don't ever stop being you." Jimin watched Jungkook's eyes widen.

"Hyung..."

"I'm me. So why can't you be you?" Jimin smiled at him, slapping his hand down on Jungkook's knee. "Okay! I'm glad we've cleared this up, so now you can eat. I put a lot of care into it, so eat well!"

"Hyung..."

"Let me take care of you Jungkook. I enjoy hanging out, I enjoy talking with you, and I enjoy taking care of you. My opinion of you hasn't changed." Jimin continued to smile at him. "Please eat."

"Hyung...I...I don't know if you should be okay with me. I'm-"

"Wonderful. You are wonderful."

"A-ah..." Jungkook looked away bashfully. "Really, you say too much. I'm not as wonderful as you think I am. I'm..."

"You are perfect just the way you are, okay?" Jimin wasn't going to tell Jungkook about himself though. He didn't want to be selfish. If Jungkook was happy with Jihoon, then so be it. He wasn't going to interfere, however annoying Jihoon was. Jimin knew that Jihoon could tell that he was into men, Jimin didn't hide it, but his response to noticing was showing that Jungkook was taken.

"Are you sure?...I- I can stop-"

"No, don't stop." Jimin gave him a smile. He hoped Jungkook was happy with Jihoon, that was all he could ask for. No matter how annoying it was to Jimin, to be glared at and seeing him be touchy around Jungkook, he hoped Jungkook was happy. It was easy to see to anyone who was queer to notice that Jimin was actively flirting with Jungkook, but hey...it didn't seem like Jungkook was used to a safe space to give in to something like that. "You're perfect."

"Hyung...thank you." Jungkook gave a weak smile back. "My parents would kill me if they found out so...let's...let's keep this between us, okay?" He raised his eyebrows in concern, as if he was afraid Jimin might out him.

"Okay. I promise. Now please, eat." Jimin really wanted Jungkook to eat. It seemed like he never ate much.

Jungkook smiled a little more. "Thank you. You didn't have to bring food."

"It's an offering."

"Thank you." Jungkook opened it, smiling wide. "No ones made me something like this before."

"Do you like it?" Jimin smiled at Jungkook's happiness.

"It's cute, thank you." Jungkook bit down on his lip. He picked up the bunny shaped rice ball, nibbling on it. "...really, thank you hyung."

"Don't mention it." Jimin smiled, happy that Jungkook looked happy.

"So...do you have a girlfriend? Since um- since we've gone over my stupid love life." He gave a weak laugh.

"Nope! I'm single, married to my best friend, but single." Jimin laughed. "He's a sweetheart, I wish you could meet him."

"This is the one you're moving in with?"

"Yeah, Taehyung. He's nice once you get past the initial bickering." Jimin laughed again. "I promise he'd love you."

"I dunno, he sounds sort of intimidating." Jungkook nibbled on the rice ball more. "But if you like him...then I'm sure he's nice."

"He is, I promise." Jimin nudged him slightly. "Wanna come over?"

"Oh I...I can't..." Jungkook shook his head. "I have to stay home."

"You'll only be next door?"

"Hyung...I can't." Jungkook shook his head. "I've gotta stay home and clean the house. It's my turn."

"All alone? I can help you then, to make up for you feeling bad. I do apologize for making you feel bad." Jimin pouted. "I couldn't sleep very well thinking about how you left last night."

"I didn't...sleep well either but that could've been the headache." Jungkook tried to lighten the mood. "You don't have to help though, I'll be fine."

"Let me help! We can play music and pretend we're having fun." Jimin laid back on Jungkook's bed. "This place already looked clean though, what do you even have to do?"

"Oh you know...dust, sweep, scrub the floor in some places." Jungkook continued to eat the meal Jimin had provided him. "My mom likes the place clean as can be."

"Then I'll help!" Jimin smiled. He wanted Jungkook to eat well...god he was so cute. He looked so cute as he quietly ate the meal he made for him. "Is it good?"

"It really is, thank you." He spoke quietly, but happily.

"Oh it's no problem. I enjoyed making it! You remind me a bunny; you're so shy, but hey, rabbits take time to get comfortable so that makes sense." Jimin lounged a little more, stretching. He hoped Jungkook liked his outfit. He wished Jungkook would look at him.

"Yeah...yeah." Jungkook smiled. "It does." He glanced at Jimin before quickly looking away.

Jimin smiled. He wished Jungkook was as confident as him...he wondered what Jungkook was like when he was flirting.

"Let's...let's clean, okay? I'll let you help me, let me get what we need. You can play music, I think I can get a speaker out somewhere..."

"Ahh, alright! Let's get it!" Jimin got up excitedly.

Jungkook smiled and got what they needed as Jimin went to the kitchen to wait for him, the two starting to clean the living room, kitchen, and dusting the house. Jimin played music on a speaker, swaying along to some of his songs. He hoped that Jungkook felt better...he really did.

____

After that, Jungkook was busier. Outings with Yeji, getting prepared for his interview and working for his father, along with a little bit of ignoring Jimin...just in case. Not entirely, but a little. He went over sometimes, when he could, but he ignored him a little because he was afraid.

He was probably uncomfortable around him. Jimin had this look that he would give...it was...sad. It was something Jungkook couldn't read well, it was something he didn't understand and could only take as disappointment or sadness. He hated it.

But...there was nothing worse than being in his house.

He went to the dinning table, ready to eat breakfast and relax for the day, before he heard his parents coming. He took a small breath and prepared for it.

"Good morning Jungkook." His mother spoke sharply.

"Morning." Jungkook just wanted to eat and go.

"Your father and I have been talking again...about Yeji."

"Mom-"

"We decided to take you to look at rings today. You know, get a good idea of what you want."

"Mom-" Jungkook felt panicked.

"We want you to propose. Don't let her be the one, you're a grown man." His father walked into the kitchen, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Treat her like a woman, you're treating her like a kid."

"Sh-she's barely not a kid." Jungkook looked up at his dad with wide eyes. "Don't you think it's too soon? She just- just graduated high school."

"Exactly. A perfect time."

Jungkook lost his air. "N- I- I can't- that's so soon. W-when do you except a wedding?"

"Within the next few years. Doesn't matter when, but summer weddings are preferred."

"Well, isn't winter just as nice?" Jungkook gave a small smile.

"Not usually for weddings..." his mother shook her head. "Unless Yeji wants that, but for what reason I wouldn't know."

Jungkook nodded. "Okay...uh I can ask her?"

His dad squeezed his shoulder before letting go. "Sounds good. Get ready, I've got other things to do today." He fixed his watch, Jungkook nodding and getting up.

God he was never allowed to eat breakfast in peace. He really never was. He wished he'd headed out earlier, but...

Jungkook sighed. Rings already? He understood that dating and getting engaged stepped up the seriousness of this arranged marriage, but fuck she was so young. And she was a she. But that wasn't something Jungkook could even bring up...his parents would kill him. Yeji would probably hate him.

Jimin somehow didn't, but...but it felt like he was upset about something. He just didn't know what Jimin was upset about. There was something, there had to be something! There was always something.

Jungkook shook his head as he changed his clothes. Why did Jimin fucking end up on his mind? He had to stop this fucking nonsense, that was one thing his dad was right about.

"A boy is never going to love you! Shut your goddamn mouth, and marry a woman. Then maybe she'll be able to help you with your loose screws since we sure as hell aren't able to."

Jungkook shook his head. A boy would never love him. Never love him. Not the way a woman and a man love each other. A boy would never love him for real. Never love him for his quirks and interests and words...so far they'd only loved him for his body, and did that count at love? Jungkook counted it as love. It was a form of love, at least. And if that's all he could get, he would take it.

But he did wish...that there was someone he could tell his secrets to. He wished...he had someone he could lay in bed with, whisper and laugh into the night, talk with, share with, know. Jungkook wanted to be known by a lover and a friend, one in the same...he just wished he could be loved.

He wished it, but he knew it wouldn't happen.

He tried to clear his head as he headed out with his parents, seeing Jimin outside with his parents. They waved, Jungkook waving back with a smile before getting into their car.

"You shouldn't let him influence you Jungkook, he's not good for you."

"He's not a bad influence." Jungkook stared out the window. "He's actually really good. He's smart, he's charming, he's motivated..." He felt his mother's energy. "He's a good guy. Not engaged or anything, but he's really got his life together."

"Jungkook honey, he's gay. You shouldn't hang out with him." She sighed, Jungkook looking at her. She looked at least a little bad about saying it.

"No, he said he wasn't." Jungkook shook his head. "He's a good guy, I really do mean it."

"Do you mean that about Jihoon? You still hang out with him."

"I..." Jungkook sighed. "He's not the best influence, but he's also motivated."

"He's poor, he curses, he isn't proper-"

"Mom! That's so rude!"

"It's true, and it isn't good for our family for you to associate with such a boy. He's your age, he should be acting more mature. Compare him to Jimin honey, come on...he doesn't act like a grown up."

"But that's nice! That's what I like about him, he's fun to be around." Jungkook sighed and quieted down, feeling bad for raising his voice at all. "He is less mature, I know he is. But he isn't a bad guy either."

"If your choices are between Jimin and Jihoon, I'm going to have to say Jimin is the better choice. Him being gay and all." She crossed her arms.

"He isn't gay." Jungkook looked down. "He's just kind."

"Mm. You should be thinking about a wedding instead of those boys, okay? God forbid you have boys on your mind." She sounded upset, so Jungkook dropped the subject.

"Okay." He looked at his hands, wringing them together methodically as he tried to calm down. Heaven forbid he have boys on his mind...he'll never be loved by one, so why did they occupy his mind? Why did Jihoon and Jimin seem to always be on his mind, one way or another?

Jungkook wished he was normal. He wished he was born normal, he wished he didn't have these problems, he wished he was happy and could feel blessed, but he couldn't.

People always reminded him that he should be happy, he has money, why shouldn't he be happy? Isn't money enough?

But Jungkook would trade everything to be happy.

He would trade everything to be happy.

The car stopped, making Jungkook's thoughts stop as well. They got out, going into a store and taking a small look around before getting helped by someone. Jungkook was spaced out beyond comprehension, as he nodded and smiled, talking sometimes, but mostly just looking.

None of them looked good...they were too sparkly, too big, too cliche. None of them looked unique to him, which, if he was going to be forced to get married, he might as well be able to pick his own goddamn ring.

They looked at the engagement rings...Jungkook also thinking that none of these were unique. He wondered what Jimin would think about them...it probably would be fun to look at them with Jimin. He'd make anywhere more fun.

"Jesus christ Jungkook." Jungkook spoke quietly to himself. He had to get Jimin off his goddamn mind. It was weird how often he was on it, and it probably wasn't appreciated by Jimin. He would think it was weird...normal people don't think about how soft their friends hands were, or...other things. "Get it together."

He heard his parents talking to the person helping them, talking about the engagement rings, before they quieted.

Jungkook pretended to look at things. He sometimes wondered...he sometimes wondered about Jimin's hands. They looked small and soft...delicate and warm. He wondered how he would touch him, if he would be kind or something else.

God Jungkook was deprived. Having your love language be physical touch in his fucking household was a nightmare. He just really needed a hug. One really long, really tight hug and he'd be okay for a while. He wasn't going to get that in his house though.

Was it wrong to wonder? Was it wrong to wonder how Jimin would kiss? Probably. Actually yeah, it was, that was definitely wrong, he had to stop that. He had to stop it. He had to stop making Jimin uncomfortable.

"Ready to pick one son?" His father called out to him, making Jungkook snap out of it.

"Oh...sure." His mood dropped again, as he went over. Everything went in one ear, out the other, as they talked about gems and jewels and diamonds and rings.

"What about this one? Do you want a traditional one or something else?"

"Um..." Jungkook looked at it...it looked so boring.

"Yes, a traditional one." His mother pointed at a couple.

"Okay." Jungkook nodded. He took a look at them, frowning a little. They still looked so boring...

"Well? Any thoughts?"

"Um...this ones nice?" Jungkook gestured vaguely.

"Will Yeji like it?"

"I think so." Jungkook lied. He had no idea what she would like, but engagement rings weren't permanent...he'd ask her what she wanted afterwards. "Um, how about this one?" Jungkook pointed at a less boring one in his opinion.

"That's not very traditional..." his mother sounded disappointed.

"I like it." Jungkook looked at her. "I think Yeji would appreciate something a little less traditional. It's more special that way." He knew she'd say yes because the person who worked here was by them. She would never make a scene around others.

"...alright. If that'll make her happy."

But not me. Jungkook nodded. "It would." Not like I matter much, do I?

They purchased the ring, Jungkook taking it and staring...he felt so trapped. It was becoming finalized...he was selling his soul to his parents. His future, his wants, his goals...they all meant nothing. They all were his parents.

"It's for our family! Our honor! We will not be a laughing stock because of a son who says he's gay, do you understand? If your father ever found out- be lucky it's me." His mother had scolded him in high school, after he'd confessed he thought he had a crush on a classmate. He would never forget her words. "Your future is this families future. Do you understand?"

He did understand. He just...wished he could love someone he wanted to love. He wished he could kiss someone he wanted to kiss. He wished he could marry someone he wanted to marry. Have a job he wanted. Have a family he wanted.

If he ever had a kid...he would promise to be better than his own parents. He would make their life fun, and good, and loving. But he really didn't want a kid with Yeji...

He felt like crying as he stared at the ring box. His parents led them back to the car, but Jungkook never stopped staring at it. His chest was tight and his jaw was tense and tingly...he wanted to cry. He went to his room when they got home, setting the box on his desk before hyperventilating.

He held his chest, breathing quickly and heavily as he tried to calm down. He couldn't seem to calm down at all, his chest so tight, everything feeling horrible-

His phone lit up.

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Can you come over? I feel like staying up late and talking, I'm bored haha

Jungkook felt his heart calm down a little, but his chest was still tight. He left his house without a word, ringing Jimin's doorbell. He still felt like crying, feeling a little embarrassed to need contact with someone who didn't drain him.

He felt bad for being needy.

Jimin opened the door with a smile, but Jungkook watched it fall. "What's wrong?"

"Hm? Nothings wrong, I just- I'm glad you invited me over." Jungkook smiled, his chest still tight.

"Jungkook..." Jimin pulled him inside, taking his hand.

"Oh is Jungkook over sweetie? I'll make you something!" Jimin's mom was in the living room, Jimin smiling at her.

"That's okay, we're just going to hang out."

"Alright, text me if you want anything then."

"I love you." Jimin kept them moving, taking Jungkook upstairs and to his room. Jungkook didn't know how Jimin could say it so easily.

He'd never said that to his mother.

Jimin closed his door, then looked at Jungkook with watery eyes. "What's wrong?"

"What? What's wrong with you? I- what- are you okay?" Jungkook panicked, reaching out then retracting his hands twice. "What did I do?"

"I'm sorry, I just- you looked so sad. I cry about everything, I'm sorry." Jimin took Jungkook's hand that he kept retracting, pulling him into a hug. "I'm sorry that...you feel bad. About whatever it is."

"Don't...apologize for me?" Jungkook hugged him back, feeling himself feel better but still on the edge of crying. "I had a bad day, that's all."

Jimin held onto him tighter. "...do you wanna talk about it?"

"Mmm...no...I'd rather just spend some time with you. You know, make my day better." Jungkook smiled, flirting ever so cautiously. He'd never have him, so...it wasn't harmful, right?

"Okay...do you wanna watch something?"

"Sure. I still can't believe you can have a tv in your room."

"I can't believe you can't." Jimin smiled a little as he looked up at Jungkook. "Do you like hugs? Sorry I just kinda-"

"I like them." Jungkook looked down at him with a small smile. "I like hugs."

"Mm, good." Jimin buried his head in Jungkook's chest.

Jungkook held him for a while longer, the two not talking as he did so. He would hold on until Jimin would let go...he didn't know how long Jimin needed and by god Jungkook could hold him forever. He would take anything.

"Mmm...you're a good hugger. Lemme put on a movie or something." Jimin let go, Jungkook letting go after.

"Thank you?"

"You don't seem like the type, that's all."

"Well, if I had more friends who hugged I would hug more." Jungkook shrugged, sitting on the edge of Jimin's bed.

"Oh please, get on the bed, you know you're welcome."

"Ah..." Jungkook blushed a little, embarrassed to be called out.

Jimin put on a movie and climbed on his bed, moving close to Jungkook. "This is fine, right?"

"Yeah, this is nice." Jungkook bit down his smile, trying to calm his beating heart. Jimin was very cautiously cuddled against him, Jungkook cautiously pulling him closer. "It's nice."

"...okay."

They stayed like that for the better part of three hours, watching a couple movies and relaxing. Purely relaxing. They really didn't move as they talked a little here and there while watching their movie.

Jungkook's phone buzzed, making him frown as he fished it out of his pocket. "Ah...I should head home."

"Whaaaat?" Jimin whined. "You should just stay the night, I'm too comfortable."

"I can't stay the night." Jungkook shook his head. "My mom wants me home for dinner."

"Aw come on, there's still time before then, isn't there?"

"Mm...there should be, but still hyung."

"Why can't you stay the night?"

"I just can't." Jungkook laughed a little. "I don't get to sleep over places."

"Why not?"

"I just can't. I'm not allowed, um- my parents are quite the odd ones aren't they..." Jungkook laughed again, this time a little more painfully.

"Mm. Maybe we can convince them one day."

"Ah, I don't think so. My uh...I can't spend the night with other guys." Jungkook spoke quietly.

"Oh. They're that kind of homophobic?" Jimin huffed as he sat up. "That's kinda fucked, sorry. Just know that if you never need someone to talk to, I'll listen, and if you don't feel like talking, I'll just be here. My parents will listen to anything either, they're supportive."

"Thanks but...it is what it is." Jungkook sat up too, stretching a little. "Thanks for inviting me over...it was nice to relax." He stood up, readjusting his clothes.

"Come over anytime. That offer still stands." Jimin sat on the edge of the bed, his eyes glancing at him before looking down. "Okay?"

Jungkook smiled. "Hey. Don't feel bad for me, okay? I'm glad...that I at least get to come over."

Jimin nodded, but he didn't look up. "Yeah but..."

"Nope." Jungkook ruffled his hair. It was surprisingly soft, though he knew it was dyed. "No buts. It's fine. You should have your parents convince mine if you want me to sleep over. They wouldn't listen to us." He laughed. "Like kids I guess!"

"I'm really sorry Jungkook." Jimin looked up at him with a small blush.

"It's fine hyung, but I gotta head home now, okay?"

"Okay." Jimin pouted as he looked up at him. "C-come over afterwards if you can."

Jungkook smiled a little more. "Okay. I can see if I can do that. I can't promise anything." From what Jungkook could tell...Jimin liked physical contact as well. They both seemed energized from the movie, Jungkook desperate for more.

"Okay. If not, can I see you tomorrow?" He smiled at him, Jungkook shrugging a little.

"I don't know yet...I might have a dinner planned."

"Then beforehand."

"Maybe." Jungkook sighed.

"Alright alright let me walk you to the door. I've kept you long enough." Jimin stood up and ran a hand through his hair as he led Jungkook down the stairs and to the front door.

"You know I'd love for you to keep me longer." Jungkook trailed him with a smile.

"Another night then...I'll keep you longer. I'd love to spend a lazy day with you. Oh! You know what? Before New Years, my parents go out for a couple days, you should come over then! That way we can use the living room instead of my room. Better sound quality."

"O-oh, that sounds fun." Jungkook tried not to think about the two of them being alone alone. "Let me think about it."

"Good. Maybe then you can stay over."

Jungkook laughed as Jimin opened the door, hanging out in the doorway. The two didn't seem to want to leave. "Not without your parents home."

"We can lie." Jimin whispered, then giggled.

Jungkook smiled, leaning his arm on the doorway, looking down at Jimin. "You can lie?"

"Not very well." Jimin laughed, hugging himself. "Fuck it's only getting colder."

"That's what I thought." Jungkook laughed quietly, leaning in a little closer. "You don't seem like a liar."

"Neither do you." Jimin grinned at him.

"You learn how to do it eventually."

"Oh yeah? Maybe you can teach me so we can convince your parents. I'd love to have you over for a night."

"You've gotta lot to learn. How old are you?"

"I'm 23."

"Wrong, you're 25."

"I'm 25." Jimin bit down on his lip.

Jungkook laughed. "Okay, you're really bad at this. I'm 25, I'm married and have two kids. Don't you enjoy talking about reading books but never actually reading them? Aren't you the person who loves to cook?" Jungkook smiled, lying impulsively.

"Oh yes, I love to cook. I make all sorts of cakes for the neighbors, they love when they have desserts for their kids. How are yours?" Jimin nodded, playing along.

"Oh lovely, they really love playing catch together. Why don't you make us a cake, since you're such a lovely baker?"

Jimin giggled. "I should, shouldn't I? How about I invite you and your kids over so we can bake while they play?"

"That sounds like a grand idea. Do you have a wife?"

"Oh no, I'm a bachelor, I must be. After all, I haven't found a compatible match before."

"Oh how dreadful it is to be alone. You must meet my wife then, though, how horrible it is that she's sick. I'm not sure if any money in the world can save her." Jungkook closed his eyes, dramatically looking away. "She spends her days in hospital beds."

"How sad! You must spend your time with me then. Kids and all." Jimin put his hand on Jungkook's shoulder.

"Oh no, you're too kind. Spending time with kids who aren't your own?" Jungkook looked at him, his eyes wide.

"I did say I was a bachelor, no? I have the time and the care." Jimin smiled at him.

"My my, how generous." Jungkook blushed a tiny bit. "I- do you want kids?" Jungkook broke character, Jimin blushing a little too.

"I- yeah, maybe one day." He looked away, the two ending their small pretend life. "I'd...like to take care of someone."

"That's really sweet." Jungkook could stare at Jimin forever. His blush was just so...honest. He was stupidly attractive too, in every possible way.

"Do you want kids?" Jimin peaked a look at him.

"I...don't know. I don't think I'd be a good dad. Like, I think it would be nice but I also think I'd fuck it up. I fuck up a lot of things." Jungkook looked away. "I fuck up a lot of things. I should head home, sorry for keeping you in the cold even longer."

"Hey. For what it's worth...I think you would be a great dad." Jimin rubbed his arm a little. They were rather close, Jungkook blushing a little as he could hear Jimin's honesty. He looked at him, feeling a little bad.

"You think so?"

"Yeah. For how much I know you, I think you'd be a fun dad. New to it, but good." Jimin smiled. "Alright. I'm the one keeping you now." Jimin squeezed his arm and let go. "Eat a lot for dinner, okay?"

"We'll see." Jungkook smiled. "Get inside, you'll freeze your nose off. Sleep well hyung."

"Goodnight Jungkook." Jimin waved goodbye, Jungkook waving back as he left to his house.

He felt his body begin to pretend once again. It was time to fake his entire life, hide everything about himself, mask himself entirely.

He entered his house, giving a weak smile to his mother who was in the kitchen.

"Jungkook. What have I said about leaving without texting?"

"I'm sorry. I was just next door, I'll text you next time for sure." Jungkook bowed an apology. "It simply slipped my mind."

"If you don't do it next time your privilege of going over will be taken away." She shot him a look, Jungkook nodding.

"Sorry."

"Yeji's family is coming over for dinner."

"Hm? Tonight?"

"Mhm. You've got the ring, no? Then it's time to propose. At least that, we can arrange a wedding in the future, but an engaged woman is better than a girlfriend. More finality."

Jungkook looked at the ground. "Can't I do it on my own terms?"

"Then you'd never do it." She teased, Jungkook biting his lip harshly.

"Yeah...but...I don't want to do it at the table."

"We'll head into the living room, you can have a little privacy."

Jungkook felt his chest tighten once again. He missed Jimin; missed the feeling of relaxing.

"...okay." Jungkook went to his room, feeling bad once again. Every step into this house was like a bear trap; out of one, into another. His only relief was with Jimin or Jihoon, but now that his mother was so intent on making him pick one or the other...he wasn't sure what to do.

He'd known Jihoon for longer, sure, but...Jimin was kind. Jimin actually felt like he wanted to listen to his words and problems, but also explore his interests.

Jimin seemed like the kind of person who would put in just as much effort.

But Jihoon was kind...just a little, well, odd too. He had created a barrier between them once they started their different relationship, but he also didn't let anyone else tease him. It was...protection, but in an almost selfish way.

Jungkook didn't know. He didn't know what to do at all. His life just seemed to crumble in his hands.

He got a text, Jungkook smiling seeing Jimin's notification.

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Eat well!!

Jungkook was getting worse. He was actively looking forward to his texts now...and he was continuing to "forget" to give his phone to his mother, just so he could hope for a text from Jimin. He was getting so much worse and it had barely been two weeks.

He changed his clothes, not knowing how to respond. How could you say that you looked forward to someone's texts without it being obvious that he was flirting? And then he'd be disgusted, they always were. He was lucky he had someone like Jihoon...you can say you support someone, but actions speak louder than words.

And Jimin looked so disappointed in him.

Yet...he was comfortable being close to him in such an intimate way, at least, intimate for Jungkook. He was never able to be so comfortable and close and normal before.

He wished-

He had to stop. He had to stop thinking about him, he had to focus on his other problems. He had enough fucking shit on his mind, he had to stop wanting Jimin. It was horrible, it was horrible and he hated it.

Jimin would never want him, and he would never love him.

Jungkook finished getting cleaned up.

Jimin would never love him.

Jungkook would never be loved.

He went out to the kitchen again, his mother fixing up the table. "Thank you for getting ready at least."

"Yeah..." Jungkook helped her a little, before feeling unwelcome. "We could eat on the patio? Then um...it would be more private when I um...propose..." Jungkook continued to get quieter as he spoke.

"That's a good idea, but it might get cold."

"I could set up the cover? Mm...it would get a little cold either way though."

"If you start the fire I'll make the table out there." She cleaned up the plates she set down, Jungkook smiling a little and heading outside.

It would be easier to talk to her in private outside, if their parents went inside for him to propose.

He started the fire, then helped his mom set up the table out there, before they heard the doorbell.

"Oh! Perfect. Will you put the rest of the food on the table while I get the door?" She smiled, Jungkook nodding. He got the rest of the food, making sure the table looked nice before hearing the chatter of Yeji's family.

They were equally as pushy, they both knew that.

They came outside, Jungkook smiling a little. Yeji looked nice, but well, in a normal way. She was no Jimin. He looked good in anything, in literally anything. His pajamas, his outfit when he came over, his- Jungkook had to stop. He felt his cheeks heat up, hating that it wasn't even for the person in front of him.

"Hey." Jungkook looked at the table.

"Hey." Yeji went around and looked for some kind of contact, Jungkook pulling out her chair for her instead. "How um...how've you been?" She seemed disappointed, but sat down, as the rest of her family came outside as well.

"I've been better. But hey, could be worse I guess." Jungkook smiled. If this dinner went quickly, he might be able to head back to Jimin's house.

Fuck him. He has to stop. He has to stop this.

"Well-"

"Jungkook! Oh I'm so happy to see you, congratulations on landing the job." Yeji's father laughed as he spoke, the adults sitting down and distributing food onto plates.

"O-oh thank you." Jungkook gave a thin smile. "I've heard you've gotten onto the newest magazine, that's really cool."

He laughed again, Jungkook feeling like it was a little egotistical. "It's hard work! You'll get there, I'm sure."

Jungkook felt so awkward.

The entire dinner felt awkward.

His family knew what was happening, and he was almost certain that Yeji's parents knew what was going to happen, but Yeji...poor Yeji. She had no idea what was going on, and- and she had no idea Jungkook was anything other than straight. She had no idea of anything.

Jungkook still wanted to run away. But- but now that he knew Jimin, it was really hard to continue that plan.

He really didn't know what to do.

"Oh! We have a bottle of wine inside, would you like to try it?" His mother used their out, the parents all nodding and getting up. "We'll bring you two glasses, okay?"

"Sure mom." Jungkook smiled at her, but he felt horrible. He felt so horrible. He couldn't propose the way he wanted to, he didn't love her, he never did. He couldn't kneel, he couldn't say the words and mean it...their relationship shouldn't be.

Yeji did seem confused. "Okay...? What's going on?" She whispered to him once they went inside. "Is everything okay?"

"Yeji...I can't give you a love you deserve." Jungkook turned to her, clearing his throat. "I also can't promise you anything amazing, or a promised future. I can't promise you anything."

"Jungkook?" She looked confused, almost scared.

"Yeji...I know neither of us are ready, but I know that neither of us have the power to say no. And one day- one day I'll be able to make it up to you...but at the moment...I can't even do this correctly." Jungkook felt horrible. He felt horrible, he truly did, down to his bones as he set down the ring box on the table in front of her.

He couldn't even pretend to propose.

"Oh..." she sounded so...disappointed. "Oh." Then she sounded sad.

Jungkook couldn't stand to look at her. "I'm sorry. I'm really sorry, I can't even pretend."

"Jungkook, it's okay I just- I thought maybe we'd have more time. And maybe on our own terms."

"No. No, it's...it's like this. I'm sorry." Jungkook couldn't help but feel bad. He'd always imagined that marriage was between two people who loved each other, but that dream was shot out of the air as soon as he turned 18. And here he was, dreamless.

"I'm sorry too." She took the box, carefully opening it and putting the ring on. "I'm sorry I'm not someone you can love." Jungkook felt a little concerned about her wording; he hadn't told her he was gay. "You just...you know? We never signed up for this. I'm sure we both would've enjoyed...picking someone we loved."

"Yeah..." Jungkook didn't like how vague she was being. "It would've been nice."

"I mean, I'm such a young woman, I'm sure you had another woman in mind."

Oh fuck. Jungkook didn't know how to respond to that. "Uh...I was simply hoping not to get married until I was much older."

"Mm."

They sat in silence for a while, both looking at each other and knowing they'd have to fake their excitement once their parents came back. Jungkook couldn't stand it...she looked so sad. He probably looked blank, he usually hid his expressions from being too expressive.

"Well...the ring looks nice." She broke the silence, looking at the ring on her finger. "This sucks."

"I'm sorry."

"No- stop that. It's not your fault."

"S-sorry..." Jungkook sighed and looked down.

They quickly raised their heads and smiled once they heard their parents come back. They gasped when they saw the ring, but everyone here knew it was performative. Everything was performative. Their reactions to the ring, Yeji and Jungkook pretending to be a happy couple, everything, everything.

Jungkook spaced out after that, disassociating out of his body while they talked and drank. Jungkook didn't drink though, since alcohol usually ended up hand and hand with sex for him, so he tried not to trick his mind like that.

His parents didn't want him drinking anyways.

The rest of the night was gone in a second, Jungkook spaced out and barely there at all.

He said goodbye to Yeji, her father and mother, before saying goodnight to his parents.

"I'll clean the rest, don't worry." Jungkook smiled. He wanted time alone.

"There's a lot of dishes-"

"Don't worry mom, I'll clean up."

"Well, alright...don't forget to put out the fire outside, okay? Goodnight honey, we're very proud of you." She kissed his forehead, smiling and heading off to bed.

His father was already gone.

He cleaned the kitchen, his mind gone while he did so. He just needed to be alone. He needed to get away, to get out, to run away.

He needed something else. He needed a new environment.

He went outside with their pitcher of water, going to pour the fire out. Instead, he sat by it, watching the flames flicker softly in the fire pit.

Jungkook sighed. "How am I gunna get out of here? Not in this cold...but...but I..." Jungkook sighed more. He looked at the flames, watching then flicker. "If...if I could just...fly away...I'd fly far away from here."

Jungkook thought for a moment. If he flew to America, it would be way harder to find him than in just Seoul. The downside was learning English, and honestly fuck that. Okay so something else. He only knew Korean so...so he'd become a missing persons case. That would just be a part of it...he had to plan for that too.

How could he legally change his name?

He watched the fire flicker, the flames licking into each other and calming him little by little. He wondered how it might feel...to feel the warmth of it.

He got a text on his phone, the buzz sparking him back to less intrusive thoughts.

Jimin (' . .̫ . ')
Did you eat well? You never respond T-T

Jungkook couldn't help but smile, laughing a little in his delirium. He had to change Jimin's contact name, it was too cute, but it did make him happy that that is how Jimin wanted him in his phone.

He changed it before texting back, happy that his mother hadn't demanded his phone after the dinner.

Jungkook
I ate. Did you?

Jimin hyung
Yes! We had a lovely dinner. Feeling any better?

Jungkook
Not really, haha, sorry. I'm just relaxing outside now, so the fresh air is nice.

Jimin hyung
Oh! On your porch?

Jungkook
No, backyard. We've got a fire pit.

Jimin hyung
Mmm, okay! Can I say hi?

Jungkook
It's late, you should sleep.

Jungkook took a look at the time, noting that it was getting late. They should both be asleep, actually, but...he knew he wasn't going to sleep tonight either way.

"Psst!" Jungkook's head shot up in the direction of Jimin, seeing his little head barely above the fence.

Jungkook laughed, standing up and going over. "What're you doing hyung?" He whispered, metting him halfway. "You should really be asleep."

"You had dinner so late!" Jimin whispered back. "Was it special?"

"Yeah, we had some friends over." Jungkook gave a small smile. "You're going to get cold if you stay out here hyung, you never wear enough layers." He tsk'd, shaking his head. "Should I gift you a beanie?"

"Oh I'd take any gift from you." Jimin laughed a little. "Why are we whispering?"

"Oh my parents are trying to sleep and I'm supposed to be in bed. You know how it is...just trying to clear my head."

"Oh yeah? Wanna go for a drive?"

"I can't...I'd get in trouble."

"Aw come on, you've never snuck out?"

"What? No, never. I'd be dead meat." Jungkook continued to whisper. "Can you drive?"

"Can you not?"

"Nope."

"Well, I can. Wanna go for a drive? I'll help you sneak back inside." Jimin giggled. "Though I'm not the most quiet."

"We've got alarms though." Jungkook tried to make excuses.

"It'll be fun." Jimin reached over the fence and ruffled Jungkook's hair. "Do you want to or not? I won't force you."

"I mean, of course I want to, but coming home will scare me."

"Everyone needs a small thrill." Jimin smiled at him. "Last call."

"Let me- I-" Jungkook looked back at the fire, then at Jimin. "I'll be out front in 5, okay?"

"Perfect. Bring me a beanie." Jimin grinned then dropped down, Jungkook unable to see him anymore, as it was dark and he was small. He felt uncertain...but...but anything with Jimin was better than home.

He poured out the fire, heading inside and deleting his messages with Jimin, setting his phone down on the kitchen counter. He went to his room, getting different clothes on and his beanie for Jimin, before unlocking his window and taking a big breath.

He propped it open as he went out, carefully avoiding the cameras that his house had. He knew where they were...but still, it was scary. If he got caught...

No. No, anything was better than being at home. He had to keep that mentality.

He watched Jimin's garage open, seeing the convertible back out. Jungkook went over once he was safe. "Hyung? This is your- this is your car?"

"Hop in! You said you were clearing your head, well, I've gotta say, a night drive is the best way." He seemed excited, Jungkook smiling and getting in. He handed Jimin his beanie. "Oh! I was kidding, you're so sweet." He giggled, smiling wide as he put it on before driving off.

"What's um...what's the plan?"

"No plan! We drive until you feel better." Jimin laughed, turning on the radio. "I promise you, this is going to help."

Jungkook hummed in approval. He hadn't snuck out before, and he never had a reason to before...but Jimin...Jimin was a good reason. Just seeing him smile and hearing him laugh seemed to be enough to raise his mood. Fuck he was in trouble...he had to stop this. But then, why did he decide to come along? Why did he put out the fire and go into uncertainty?

He looked at Jimin, before looking out at the city, listening to the music and Jimin singing, along with the sounds of the city.

"Okay okay, you wanna...I like to um...when I need to blow off some steam, I yell. Do you wanna join me?" He seemed embarrassed to share, making Jungkook look at him.

"When do you yell?"

"When I get on the freeway. No one hears a thing at night, it's really relieving. I hope...that you feel better from my little tradition."

"What did you even have to yell about?" Jungkook couldn't imagine it...Jimin's life seemed actually perfect. Loving, supportive family. School in Seoul, a best friend, and close friends. No marriage, no forcing, nothing harmful. No beatings. No hate.

"Well...school was hard. And being a dancer is difficult as well. I know it seems like I'm free all the time now, but I still spend half my days dancing or stretching. It's tiring to stretch your body to it's limits just to keep up with everyone else. And without a current job...I'm falling behind."

"Ah." Jungkook felt bad for asking now. Of course everyone had their own problems. Everyone did. "Yeah, that makes sense. But..." he tried to give some sort of comfort. "But I hope that you keep moving forward."

"Of course I will." Jimin smiled at him, Jungkook realizing he was staring. "I just need to get it all out. I think you've been pent up for too long, it's time to get it out one way or another." Jimin giggled again.

Jungkook couldn't help but smile. The wind felt nice and cooling...but being with Jimin felt like heaven. It was like he didn't have to mask anymore, like he could just...relax.

Jimin turned onto the highway. "You ready?"

"Yeah."

"Yeah!" Jimin raised his voice.

"Yeah!" Jungkook repeated him, smiling a little. The shine from the street lights made Jimin just as stupidly attractive as always. He felt so...so real.

"Yeah!!" Jimin continued, the two bouncing off of each other.

Jungkook laughed, a real, hearty laugh, before yelling. "Yeah!"

"Woo!"

"Yeaaaaaah!" Jungkook yelled at the sky, not having raised his voice in literal years.

They broke out in loud laughter, looking at each other with the wind in their hair, Jungkook unable to stop smiling. This single man was able to make him smile like an idiot.

And what a lucky idiot Jungkook was.

He didn't even notice he'd driven them somewhere with a view, until he heard the ocean and the music clearly.

His chest had never felt lighter. "Hey hyung?" Jungkook decided to be a little braver...he really hadn't shared about himself at all.

"Yeah?" Jimin turned down the radio a little.

"Thank you. This means a lot to me, I've never had someone be so willing to be...mmm...what's the right word...well..."

"...vulnerable?"

"Yeah. Something like that. Not with someone like me."

"Jungkook...someone "like you" is just like anyone else." Jimin defended him without a pause. "I am willing to be vulnerable with people I enjoy being around, spending time with, and who I think need the authenticity." He smiled at Jungkook. "And I have a feeling you need that."

"Well...I like being someone you like being around." Jungkook smiled and looked away. "It seems like you need someone to enjoy being with too."

"Yeah, I do. I miss my friends." Jimin hummed. "But...I'm glad that I got to befriend you." He looked at Jungkook, but Jungkook kept his eyes on the ocean view.

"...I'm going to be busy after today..."

"That's okay. We can just hang out whenever you can." Jimin reassured him. "Whenever that may be."

"You're too kind to me. I- I'm sorry, but I don't get it hyung. Why are you so nice to me? This is...a good time to stop getting to know me." Jungkook kept his eyes on the ocean, listening to it in hopes he could calm down.

"Oh Jungkook." Jimin sounded sad, making Jungkook look at him. The tone in his voice made him worried.

"Hyung-"

"I enjoy spending time with you. You've been kind, and funny, and helpful, and I like being around you. I want to become someone you let your guard down with, I know it sounds scary, but I want to be someone...someone you trust." Jimin put a hand on Jungkook's shoulder. "I don't want you to be afraid around me."

"I..." Jungkook looked down. "I'm sorry."

"Why are you apologizing?" Jimin squeezed his shoulder and let him go. "Do you...do you not want to continue knowing me?"

"I!- I..." Jungkook panicked, looking at Jimin and leaning in closer, before becoming embarrassed and looking away. "I...am scared for you to become associated with me..." Jungkook wondered how to explain it. "I...I'm sorry."

"Hey. You don't have to apologize. I just want to understand." Jimin leaned closer too. "I want to understand you."

"Hyung. I don't think you get it." Jungkook spoke quietly, their noses close as he looked back at him.

"I don't. Explain it."

"I'm not someone worth knowing."

"Fuck off, give me a real reason." Jimin didn't budge.

Jungkook was taken aback. "Hyung, but I-I mean it. I'm not."

"Give me a good fucking reason."

"I...you know why..." Jungkook retracted.

"No I don't. Tell me. Give me one good reason why you're someone not worth knowing." Jimin glared a little this time.

"I...I feel bad saying it now." Jungkook looked away, looking at his hands in his lap.

"Say it." Jimin pushed the conversation forward. "I want to know you."

"Jimin, I'm gay." Jungkook spoke quietly, hoping for once that he'd be pushed away. "And my parents suck, and I'm boring and annoying, and eventually you'll wanna go away and- and I'm not a good friend and I don't know how to comfort or talk to someone and- and I just...I don't want to disappoint anyone else. Least of all you." Jungkook felt his chest tighten and his jaw tingle. He kept his jaw clenched to avoid crying.

"Are those your reasons?" Jimin asked him quietly.

"What, do you need more? Hyung, I'm-"

"Perfect. You're perfect the way you are. You're perfect in every imperfection. I'm not perfect either, but I don't get upset about that. Besides, fuck whoever called you boring and annoying, they're wrong! You're fun and funny, and I haven't been annoyed at all. If anything, I've been annoying, but I'm not apologizing for that." Jimin laughed a tiny bit, before quieting. "Jungkook."

Jungkook tried to bite away his tears, desperate for them not to fall. His eyes watered anyways.

"Jungkook." Jimin spoke softly. "Jungkook, will look at me?"

Jungkook shook his head. "S-sorry." He covered his mouth, before slowly covering his face with his hands, shaking his head. "I'm sorry."

"Oh god." Jimin got out of the car, going around to the other side and opening Jungkook's door, unclicking his seatbelt. "Come here, come on."

Jungkook got out, still covering his face as Jimin pulled him into a tight hug. He couldn't get a word out, embarrassed and ashamed that he was so quick to cry.

"I'm sorry that anyone has made you feel so bad before." Jimin rubbed his back. "I'm sorry you feel the need to apologize to me for wanting to know you. I'm sorry that anyone has left you before."

Jungkook simply held him, sniffing here and there.

He'd never had someone just...accept him before. Gay and all. They'd found it weird, gross, bullied him, used him, and everything in between. Jungkook could never understand why Jimin wasn't like that.

Jungkook heard Jimin sniff. "Hyung?"

"I can't believe someone so young has- has gone through so much hurt." Jimin was definitely crying, Jungkook unable to understand why.

"Hyung, what- why are you crying?" He tried to pull away, but Jimin hugged him tighter. "Hyung?"

"Mhm?"

"Why?"

"Cause. I- I've never been treated like that, and- and I'm bi! How could anyone not want to know you because you're gay? I- that just makes me so sad." Jimin hid in Jungkook's sweater.

Jungkook was absolutely shocked, his eyes going wide. "You're bi?"

"Yeah. And I'm sorry you've ever felt scared to share with me, I should've said earlier."

Jungkook gave a weak laugh. "Seriously?"

"Yes! I'm serious! I like guys too."

Jungkook laughed in disbelief. Out of all the people to move in next to him...it was someone so fucking perfect. These past two weeks feeling anxious and nervous about him knowing, and it didn't even matter. Jungkook laughed a little louder. "What the fuck are the chances? I-" Jungkook laughed, still holding Jimin. "I can't believe this."

"Hm?" Jimin finally let go of his bear hug, looking up at Jungkook. "Why are you laughing?"

"I just can't believe it! What are the chances? I haven't- I have never met someone else who was also- god damn it." Jungkook looked at Jimin and laughed more, seeing him start to giggle. God he was becoming delirious.

"Never?"

"Never."

"Well goddamn it I wish you could meet my friends."

Jungkook laughed. "I wish I could too!"

Jimin smiled wide at him. "...you sound lovely when you laugh."

"I'm sorry to make you cry. Cause you sound beautiful when you laugh."

Jimin smiled more, Jungkook loving how his eyes turned into crescents. It seemed to make him seem more loving, even more full of love. "You're too kind."

"I mean it." He did. Jungkook really did.

"Hey...I...what time do you have to be home?"

"Well...since I'm already out, I guess before 5am. That's when my dad wakes up." Jungkook felt a rush of excitement at the idea of being out. He was a little less anxious now, knowing that Jimin was on the same page as him, so going along felt better. He felt relieved again, glad that he'd put the fire out.

"Wanna jump in the water?"

"Are you crazy?" Jungkook wiped his eyes for the last time. "It's winter."

"I've got towels in the car. Just- how about our feet? Just roll up your pants and jump in." Jimin started to roll up his own, taking off his shoes and socks. He took off his coat and beanie as well.

"You don't actually mean it?" Jungkook widened his eyes.

"What, you haven't had fun before? Come on! It's fun, it's pure adrenaline." Jimin stood with a smile. "Wanna?"

"Um...su-sure! Yeah, okay." Jungkook started to roll up his pants, repeating Jimin. He probably wouldn't be able to do this again, so why not do it?

They ran down to the water, the moon reflecting off of the water in such a way that Jungkook hoped to remember forever. This was a moment he wanted to remember forever. "Holy shit!"

"Fuck!"

They both laughed, cursed, and screamed at the coldness of the water that shocked them to their cores, before laughing again.

"Oh my god hyung this was a horrible idea!"

Jimin simply laughed, then yelled again as he hopped around. "B-but nice!"

"Is it?" Jungkook laughed, feeling his feet and calves burn from the cold, becoming numb. "Ahhhh, it's cold hyung!"

"Yep!" Jimin gave a smile, Jungkook trying to figure it out.

"Hyung..." Jungkook felt endangered.

Jimin moved towards him.

"Hyung! It's freezing!"

"Yep!" Jimin jumped at him, Jungkook catching him on instinct, but couldn't keep them up, falling into the ocean.

They both gasped as they came up. "Ahhh!!!" Jungkook shivered. "Hyung!"

Jimin laughed loudly, shivering and laughing and grabbing Jungkook's shoulder and leaning against him. Jungkook's immediate anger went away, feeling special to see Jimin this way. "God, the look on your face!" Jimin kept laughing, making Jungkook start to chuckle.

"You...owe me." Jungkook glared, but smiled. "At least like, a meal."

"I'll take you out." Jimin grinned, then shivered violently. "Okay okay, maybe we should head to the car, it's got heating."

"Mm." Jungkook held him as they made their way back, happy that physical contact was okay with him. Fuck, he needed to feel normal. "Is this what you do with people you're friends with?"

"Mmm...no, I wanted to have fun with you." Jimin giggled. "Also I lied, I don't have towels in the car."

"What?! Hyung!" Jungkook looked at him with wide eyes. "We're going to get sick, it's so cold!"

"Well it isn't raining, so-"

"Don't jinx it."

"We'll be fine! We can sit on the concrete and um...dry off." Jimin laughed. "I thought you might say no if I said I didn't have towels."

"Sit on the concrete? Your best friend must hate you." Jungkook shivered again.

Jimin laughed. "I'm sorry! This is just what I do." He shivered violently, but smiled as they got to his car.

"Okay this- take my sweater." Jungkook couldn't stand seeing Jimin be so cold, even though he was obviously trying to pretend he was okay.

"What? No, you need it." Jimin shook his head, still smiling and holding himself.

"No, take it. I'll be fine." Jungkook brushed his hair back, looking at Jimin. "Well?"

"U-um, I think you should have your own- it's my fault for bringing a coat instead of a sweater."

"Take your shirt off." Jungkook tried to get some water off of his hands before taking his sweater and beanie from the car.

Jimin seemed to be shy now. "W-well-"

"Hyung. Come on, I can warm up without a sweater."

"Well fuck, now I really owe you a meal." Jimin sighed and took off his shirt, putting on Jungkook's sweater. Jungkook put the beanie on top of his head. "I'm sorry."

"Don't apologize." Jungkook smiled. Jimin looked so fucking cute in his clothes. He looked so small, swimming in the fabric. "As long as you're warm." Jungkook took off his shirt, knowing the water was only going to make him colder. He watched Jimin look away quickly.

"J-j-jesus christ, you could've warned me." He shied away, putting their shirts on the ground for the moment.

"What? It's fine, right? I don't look- I don't look bad do I?" Jungkook fret for a moment. He'd put a lot of time and effort into looking good...

"N-no! That's not what- that's not what I meant at all!" Jimin blushed, then laughed. "I meant you surprised me is all...um, you just- you've got a lot of muscles, haha." He laughed nervously. "W-which I already knew, but come on." He kept looking away. "The moon does wonders for you, fuck."

Jungkook felt a little confused, but he smiled. "Thank you? I...think that's a compliment?" He looked up at the sky, sitting on the concrete and leaning against the car. The stars didn't look half bad when he was with Jimin.

"Sorry, I-" Jimin seemed flustered. He sat down next to Jungkook. "Sorry for being so impromptu."

"It's kinda nice. I haven't done this before. Nothing like this, actually."

"I'm glad you're willing to try new things. Gosh, will you at least put my coat over your shoulders? I'm afraid you'll freeze."

Jungkook laughed. "You didn't care when you tackled me into the water."

"I- okay, but I care now." Jimin hummed. "So...will you?" He gave him a glance, before starting to stare.

"Aww, you wanna trade that badly? Is my sweater just that nice?"

Jimin laughed. "Hey come on, I'm trying to make you comfortable."

"I'm good." Jungkook kind of liked seeing Jimin's eyes glance down at his abdomen, trying to keep eye contact though. "I'm kinda dried off. As long as you're warm hyung."

"Ahh, I should be the one caring for you though!"

"Mmm...I like taking care of someone though." Jungkook smiled. "I haven't had a chance to really do that."

"Then I'll let you spoil me, but, in return you have to let me spoil you too."

"Spoil?" Jungkook laughed. "I'm not spoiling you, am I? I'm just- I just want you to be cared for."

"Well...I definitely feel cared for." Jimin laid his head on Jungkook's shoulder. "Thank you."

Jungkook smiled. It felt nice to be able to be casual with someone. It felt nice to feel normal. It felt nice to have Jimin with him. He couldn't fuck this up. He couldn't fuck up this, he could not fuck up this relationship with his horrible want to kiss him. Fuck, he looked so cute in his clothes...so small, so cuddly. He w- he needed to stop. Even if Jimin was fine with him...Jungkook was still disgusted. That didn't change. He felt his smile fade, as he looked up at the sky.

"Don't the stars look beautiful tonight? They're kinda hard to see, but they're there."

Jungkook looked at him for a moment, then back at the stars. "Yeah. They're pretty." Jungkook wasn't sure what to say...he thought Jimin was prettier.

"Well...not to ruin our fun, but we should head home before we fall asleep."

"We? I'm fine." Jungkook laughed quietly. He wished he could have more nights like this. "But yeah...I should...probably go home before I get murdered."

"You say that an awful lot."

"Yeah. I mean it, my mom will literally kill me if she finds out I snuck out."

"Aren't you like, a fucking adult?" Jimin sounded a little upset. "I don't get it."

"I'm...I still count as a dependent..." Jungkook sighed. "So you know...their house their rules."

"Mmmm...I don't like that." Jimin got up, Jungkook wishing he could've stayed forever. "Alright, hopefully the seats don't get too wet, otherwise my dad might kill me."

Jungkook chuckled, getting up as well and getting their things. "Your car is going to be sandy and wet nonetheless."

"Yeah, it will be." Jimin started the car, before taking another look at the ocean, taking a deep breath, and letting it out. "I missed this. Four years of college...and I barely remembered to come home."

"Yeah? I'd trade with you any day." Jungkook did start to feel a little tired, the adrenaline all but gone. What he wouldn't do to be in Seoul.

"I mean...you would miss your family eventually. It gets pretty hard..." Jimin started to drive them home. "I'm lucky I had someone so amazing with me, but it's not easy Jungkook."

Jungkook smiled bitterly. "Yeah, I guess so." He didn't want to explain it at the moment. He didn't want to explain his situation at home, the pain of existing at home, the masking, the hurt, the fear. The fear. "I'd miss them eventually." He hated lying, but if it made Jimin worry less, then he'd let him worry less.

"It's fun though. I will say that. It's fun, and when you're with the right people it feels good. I...I hope that one day you find your right people."

Jungkook almost laughed. "I won't-" he stopped himself from being self deprecating. "I wish I could, but not at my new job I won't."

"Ah, right...you started this week, didn't you?"

"Yeah. Gotta wear suits now, it's horrible."

"What do you like to wear?"

"Comfortable clothes. You know, baggy, warm, comfortable. I don't own any though, cause my mom cares about us looking presentable. You never know when someone will come by."

Jimin gave him a glance. "But what about lounging at home?"

"Oh, um, no?" Jungkook laughed a little in confusion. "We don't lounge?"

"Huh?"

"What?"

"You don't lounge? Your- you don't lay on your couch?"

"No, we don't. We sit?" Jungkook looked at him. "Couches are for sitting?"

"No?" Jimin looked at him. "Couches are for lounging as well? You've never laid down, stretched out, watched tv- I- you need to come over more."

"I won't be able to sadly. Not with my new job, plus dinners I'm sure I'll be required to go to."

"Ahh, fancy dinners suck."

"I wonder what you'd look like in a suit." Jungkook spoke aloud, then hated himself for his tongue becoming loose in his growing tiredness. "O-oh, I mean, well, yeah, but at a dinner or something. You seem so laid back."

"Well, suits aren't exactly perfect for my dance style, but, I like to wear slacks when I go out. It's just been so cold recently." Jimin laughed. "Yet here I am with the top down, complaining about the cold."

"You're silly hyung." Jungkook smiled at him, wishing, just wishing that he could stay here forever. This moment, he wanted to keep it with him. Talking so casually, everything being so normal, the touch, the attention, the playfulness, feeling, no, being free...Jungkook couldn't stand only getting a taste of it.

He wondered what it was like to be Jimin's. What would Jimin say differently, what would Jimin's smile look like, his laugh, his touch, how would he change from friendship to love?

Love? Who was Jungkook kidding, Jimin would never love him. Because Jungkook would never be loved. And if Jimin was bi, then why would he ever choose Jungkook over a girl? And why did he even want Jimin to love him?

He just wanted anyone to love him. He wanted someone touch, fuck was he so stupidly desperate for it...he was a stupid hopeless romantic, falling in love with people on the street as they walked, touched their hair, drank a cup of coffee, walked their dog.

Jimin was the same. Jungkook was just falling in love with another random human, imagining what it was like to love another.

He'd never known, and he never would. He hoped he wouldn't, actually, he didn't want to break someone's heart. He didn't want his own to break either...it was having a hard enough time.

"Jungkook? You good there?"

"Hm? Oh, yeah, just spacing out."

"Thanks for letting me steal you. I had a really nice time. I promise that I'll make you a meal or take you out for one." Jimin grinned at him. "I wish you could just spend the night."

"My mother would freak." Jungkook looked at him, smiling a little at him. He had to stop himself from wanting more. "So I definitely can't." Jungkook tried to psyche himself out, had to try and convince himself he didn't want to.

"Stupid! I'm just a guy."

"But I'm also a guy and she thinks I'll be interested in any guy." Jungkook shut his mouth. For once...she was right about that. If Jimin let him sleep over, Jungkook didn't know what he'd do...he'd be...really awkward for sure. It was stupid how attracted he was to Jimin, even though he hadn't know him for that long. It was stupid how attractive Jimin was.

"Oh. That's stupid..." Jimin sighed. "God! I'm sorry things suck for you, I just want to spend more time together, that's all..."

"I mean...I would love to as well." Jungkook wished he knew how to flirt. He wished he was smooth, he wished he was cool and attractive and lovable. He wished he was.

No. No, he had to stop that. He had to stop thinking it was possible to date and or be loved by Jimin.

He would never be able to date him.

And he would never be loved.

He turned away from Jimin, the air really cooling him down. It was kinda funny to wear Jimin's winter coat but not have a shirt on, and it was definitely chilling his bones. He could take a shower in the morning, before his parents could tell he smelled like salt.

"Hey Jungkook? Would you even want to spend the night?"

"Mmm, maybe one day, but...at this point, it'll be hard. My mom will say no, and I'll be busy day and night. Early mornings and late nights."

"Well...I don't mind. You've gotta lounge on a couch with me."

Jungkook laughed. "That's what's important?"

"Yeah! I think I kind of understand what's um, going on inside your house, so I just want to give you a little bit of normal life."

Jungkook hummed. Jimin had no idea what went on inside his house. "I appreciate the thought, but it will be more than difficult."

"It'll be worth it." Jimin looked at him with a smile, though Jungkook didn't look back. "I think it'll be worth it."

"Hyung..."

"I mean it. I'll butter up your mother, make her feel like we're "worthy" of having you spend the night."

Jungkook smiled at the thought. "Um...I...I guess have fun? I won't be there."

"Nope! We'll do it. My mother wants you over more too, she thinks you're a sweetheart."

"How so? I've-"

"You helped us move in, you came over to hang out, you've continued to be a friend to me, and my mother appreciates all of that." Jimin smiled at him again. "Okay? So you're amazing, and my mom thinks you're a sweetheart."

Jungkook laughed a little. "Okay...I'll- I'll take it."

"Good!"

The rest of the ride was rather quiet, the both of them singing to some of the songs, but otherwise tired. They were tired from their days, but Jungkook could feel the dread of coming home.

He wished he could just go to Jimin's instead.

There he went again! His brain just kept trying to convince him that Jimin was where he wanted to be, that Jimin was comfort and perfect, but he was just leeching off of him. He was someone that was close, comfortable, and accepting, and Jungkook was leeching off of him. God he was probably so annoying to Jimin and he just didn't want to say it.

He was probably so annoying.

"Jungkook, I really do mean it...what I said tonight. I want to continue to be your friend, and I want to be someone you trust."

"I...do appreciate that...but...it does scare me." Jungkook wondered how honest to be. "The more you'll know me the more you'll see how boring I am, sorry..."

"Jungkook. You are not boring."

"Then annoying."

"You're not annoying either."

"Then downright pathetic." Jungkook had to stop this relationship. Maybe he was in far over his head. He didn't know what he was doing, he would just get attached to Jimin in a pathetic, stupid way if he kept this up. He could stop it now, before they got to know each other, before he found out anything, before he figured out how horrible his pathetic little life was...before he found out he was engaged. Before he found out he was useless.

"Jungkook, this outing was supposed to help you, and I'm not taking you home until you do." Jimin huffed, turning to Jungkook once again. "So, get it all off your chest, I'm listening." Jimin seemed determined.

"No, it's okay, I just...gotta head home."

"No, I'm not driving you home until you feel better. I'm not going to stand for it, you aren't those horrible words!" Jimin raised his voice, sending a glare Jungkook's way, making him flinch.

"Hyung..." Jungkook felt a little bad for worrying him. He did wish he could just have a nice time, but he also knew he had to stop this.

"Nope, I'm keeping you until you feel better."

"I don't know how to feel better."

"I dunno! Yelling it out, saying what's bothering you, getting it out is what helps me. You know what? I think I can take you somewhere nice to help you out next time. I saw something about yelling out your problems while throwing something, it looked really fun."

Jungkook gave a weak laugh. "Why do you care so much about helping me feel better?"

"Because! I want you to feel better! Can't it be as simple as that?" Jimin pulled the car over.

"Wait hyung, I mean it, I need to go home." Jungkook felt slight panic at being cornered.

"My car my rules. What's on your mind? Why are you being so sad now? I thought- I thought the ride would help?" Jimin looked at him, slowly putting a hand on his thigh. "I...want to help you. To know you, and trust you."

"Hyung, I'm...I'm sorry. I just- people don't stay for me...? They don't just- just stay cause they like me. They stay for a reason, you know? Something they can get out of me, I don't know, but people leave me. I'm boring, annoying, needy, pathetic, I just am, those are- those are parts of me." Jungkook couldn't stand to look at him. He tensed under Jimin's touch.

"Jungkook...I'm sorry you've ever heard those words. Because those are cruel, mean, careless words. Obviously they've stuck, and I can't make them better, but I'm not trying to be like other people. I'm going to be me, and you're going to be you, and that's enough. Okay? I want to be your friend, just cause I want to be around you."

Jungkook thought about it, taking time to put his words together, Jimin giving him the time. "I...want to believe that. But so far...every time I've believed that...I've been proven wrong. Except for Jihoon...and...I'm hoping you as well."

"I'm sorry you've been through such pain." Jimin leaned closer. "But I want to know you better, I do. I want you to come over and be a part of my routine."

"That's really sweet of you. I guess we'll just have to see where it goes, right?" Jungkook finally looked at him. He did want to know Jimin better...however much that scared him.

"Right. We'll figure things out along the way, but I'd like to make it work." Jimin smiled at him.

"Okay. Then...then yes. I'd...like to be your friend hyung. I'll be in your care." Jungkook gave a small bow, his cheeks heating up ever so slightly when Jimin squeezed his thigh in excitement.

"Okay! Then I'm convincing your mother to let you sleep over sometime soon, I'll do it." Jimin smiled happily as he started the car again, taking Jungkook home. "I'll treat you well Jungkook, I will."

Jungkook smiled to himself. If felt odd to get this kind of treatment, but by god did it feel lovely. Something about Jimin's care felt better than anything he'd felt before.

Jimin parked in front of his house. "You gunna get back inside fine?"

"Yeah. Thank you hyung...you're a real life saver." Jungkook took off his coat, putting his shirt back on. It was fucking freezing.

"Oh shoot, let me give you your sweater back-"

"Keep it for now. Until next time I come over, okay?" Jungkook got out of the car, smiling. "Thank you hyung."

"Of course." Jimin smiled, looking only slightly guilty.

Jungkook carefully made his way to his bedroom window, careful about his shadows, before getting in and going to the bathroom. It was deadly early...he wondered if his parents would hear the shower, but he didn't really feel like getting into bed with sea salt on him, so he took a quick shower before doing so.

He slept thinking about Jimin, his kindness, and his cute hands...though...he swore his thigh burned where Jimin had touched him.

____

Jungkook became horribly busy after that. His mother never found out about him sneaking out, so he decided not to try his luck, instead, he went to work with his father in the morning, and came home late, taking a shower and going to bed. Sometimes he'd come home and have to go to dinner with Yeji before he could take a shower and sleep.

He just wanted to rest, really, that was all. He wanted to rest, and he wanted to hang out with Jimin.

Even though he was busy...he...seemed to always have Jimin on his mind. He was like a beacon, a lighthouse. Whenever Jungkook felt like doing something bad to himself...Jimin popped up in his mind.

And he had no idea. Jimin had no idea how much he was doing for Jungkook. Perhaps Jungkook was just weak and anyone kind would do, anyone who was close, but he didn't care. He had someone.

Someone who checked up on him, texted him throughout the day, gave sweets to his mother while he was at work so that Jungkook could have one when he got home. Someone who fucking cared. It was nice to feel cared for, it was new and it felt amazing, and Jungkook could never tell Jimin thank you enough times.

Jimin had finally been here for a couple months, and it was inching towards Christmas and New Years.

Not that it mattered, since his family didn't do anything special. But...he really hoped that Jimin meant it when he said to come over for New Years...

A weekend finally arrived for Jungkook, one where he didn't have to spend it with Yeji. His parents were packing their bags.

"Getting ready to leave already?" Jungkook was eating breakfast, his father coming downstairs with bags.

"Yep. The driver should be about here. You going to be okay alone?"

"Yeah yeah, I'll be fine."

"Keep the place clean, and remember, you can't go over to Jimin's if his parents aren't there and he's not allowed over." His mother came downstairs too.

"Got it." Jungkook gave a small smile. He was going to spend the holidays alone again.

"And if Yeji asks to hang out or come over, it's okay."

"Alright." Jungkook hated the biases his mother had, but...Jungkook wasn't going to listen either way. "Have fun."

"Thank you for being a good son." His mother kissed him on the top of his head.

"Cars here." His father started to pick up their bags.

"Alright, one last thing Jungkook, keep your phone on, give us updates-"

"He knows everything already, come on." His father cut her off.

"Have fun." Jungkook nodded with a smile, wanting them to head off already.

They said goodbye, leaving Jungkook home alone for the week. He immediately texted Jimin and Jihoon he was free for the week, being lifted off his work duties as well since someone needed to stay home.

Jimin texted back immediately.

Jimin hyung
Come over!!!!!

So Jungkook did. He went over, happy to have this lovely break from his parents. Though, he did have to hide his arm today, as he had a nasty bruise there...his dad didn't have a good day yesterday.

He knocked on the door, sort of actually excited to be here. Jimin's mother opened the door. "Jungkook! Welcome welcome, come in! I just made breakfast, are you hungry?"

Jungkook smiled. "Oh no, I just ate. Jimin hyung is home, right?"

"Oh of course of course, he's in his room right now!" She smiled back.

"Alright I'll go up to him, thank you." He bowed before going up to Jimin's room, knocking before entering.

"Oh!" Jimin was cleaning up his room, smiling at Jungkook. "I did mean immediately, didn't I?" He laughed before standing up, then hurriedly threw a sweater off his bed. "Sorry this place is a mess." He seemed a little panicked.

"It's fine? At least you're honest." Jungkook laughed a little before sitting on Jimin's bed, a little used to it now.

"So...your parents left? What's up?" Jimin sat on the bed too, his cheeks...red. Jungkook wondered why Jimin was flustered.

"Oh, um, they went to my grandparents house. They stay for Christmas and New Years." Jungkook explained a little, smiling a bit. "So I get the house."

"Well, why aren't you going?"

"Huh? Oh I'm not invited." Jungkook said it plainly, still smiling. "My grandparents don't like me."

Jimin seemed shocked, then sad, then angry. "Then at least stay the week with us. I invite you to Christmas and New Years, okay? Stay the night too." Jimin sighed. "God I'm sorry you go through this shit."

"Oh no it's fine." Jungkook laughed, leaning back on the bed. "It's happened for a while, it's kinda nice to have the house to myself."

Jimin laid down beside him. "No one should celebrate the holidays alone."

"Well...I guess I won't be alone this year." Jungkook smiled at him, then laughed. "Thank you."

"Oh my god we can stay out late! And then you can come home here and spend the night!" Jimin sat up a little in excitement. "I promise, I'll make sure this week is good for you. Relaxing, fun, all of it."

Jungkook laughed. "I don't need you to do that."

"I want to."

"You do?"

"Yeah."

"...why?..." Jungkook smiled softly.

"Cause. I want you to experience good things."

"Mmm." Jungkook hummed. "What d'ya wanna do today?"

"Dunno yet. I just wanted you to come over." Jimin smiled back at him. He started to play some music on his phone, not wanting the room to be silent. "Wait wait, we should- we should dance."

"Hm? I dunno how to do that." Jungkook mumbled.

"Lemme teach you. Do you know how to waltz?" Jimin sat up, smiling down at Jungkook.

"Mmm...no?"

"Okay come on, it's pretty fun, and I gotta get some dance in today." Jimin stood up, holding his hand out to Jungkook. "It's not like we don't have the room. Come on."

Jungkook sat up and...carefully took Jimin's hand. Jimin pulled him to his feet. "Okay! So...it's easier to be the girl." Jimin guided Jungkook's hands. Jungkook's left hand on Jimin's shoulder, right hand in Jimin's hand. Jimin put his right hand on Jungkook's hip and held Jungkook's hand with his left. "There. Now it's a 3 count. You've never done this?"

"N-never." Jungkook hated his stutter, his blush perhaps evident at this point. Jimin's hand was so delicate...

"Alright. Then the simplest way to put it is it's a box. We go one." Jimin stepped to the left, Jungkook stepping with his right to follow. "Two." Jimin stepped forward with his right, Jungkook stepping back with his left. "Three." Jimin stepped forward with his left, Jungkook stepping back with his right. "See? That's half a box. And then we finish the box."

"A-ah, okay." Jungkook felt even more embarrassed by Jimin's hand on his hip, feeling it tighten.

"Let's go slow." Jimin smiled at him. "That way you can learn it better. Then we can go faster afterwards." Jimin grinned.

"You- this is basic?" Jungkook stared at their feet, making sure he was moving correctly.

"Mhm. And then maybe you can look at me while we do it." Jimin spoke softly, making Jungkook look up, blush, and mess up his footing. Jimin laughed. "Maybe not today."

"S-sorry." Jungkook looked down at their feet again, feeling Jimin's hand tighten as he laughed.

"Oh don't apologize, it's rather cute. Just keep it in your head, we go one two three, one two three." Jimin led, speeding up their pace just a little. "It's quite fun when you have flowing clothes."

"I bet it is." Jungkook could imagine this would be fun in a dress, though, he had never worn one before.

Jimin hummed to the music, making them match the beat. "Wanna let me add some more fun to it?"

"O-oh um, sure?" Jungkook was still looking at their feet. He couldn't bare the embarrassment of looking at Jimin.

"Okay~" Jimin started to spin them a little with each step, so that when they finished their box they spun a circle.

"Oh! That makes sense." Jungkook whispered, getting used to the footing. He was never allowed to dance at home...and this felt nice.

"Fun, right?" Jimin kept leading, making it easier for Jungkook to follow.

"Yeah! Yeah, it's- it's really nice." Jungkook smiled, looking at Jimin for a second before looking back at their feet. "It's...really nice..."

"Mmm." Jimin hummed. "I was in a mini competition once. At college we had mini competitions in our dorm building and since we were dance majors, well, you know. So they gave us a week to learn how to waltz with a partner, and by god did we win." Jimin laughed. "You'd be a great partner to dance with, though you've gotta lift your chin eventually."

Jungkook blushed more, but he couldn't lift his chin. "T-thank you."

"Chin up!" Jimin smiled wide, Jungkook looking at him through his eyelashes. "Aww, come on, you can do it. It's only three steps, you've got this."

"Mm." Jungkook nodded, looking up at Jimin sheepishly.

"There you go." Jimin smiled at him. "See? It's not so bad, is it? I'm not that horrible to look at."

"What? Oh god no, you're so handsome hyung." Jungkook laughed in disbelief. "If anything you're too handsome."

Jimin laughed. "Oh?" He tighten his grip on Jungkook's waist. "Too handsome? Take a look in the mirror, just one good look, and you'll see I'm not even on your level."

Jungkook blushed and stopped dancing, Jimin taking the opportunity to dip him, holding his waist tightly. "Hyung!" Jungkook panicked a little. A little too much, actually, as he tried to stand up and instead made Jimin loose his grip. "Hyung!"

Jungkook fell, Jimin being pulled down with him as their hands were still interlocked. "Oh gosh!" Jimin tried not to fall on top of him, but couldn't help Jungkook land nicely.

"Ow." Jungkook definitely hit his head on the carpet. "Hyung..." Jungkook opened his eyes and looked up at him, blushing red when their eyes met.

"S-sorry." Jimin was also red, quickly letting go of their hands and getting off of him. "I didn't think you'd um...panic at being dipped, my bad." He sat next to him, looking away.

Jungkook sat up, trying to erase his blush. "It's okay I- I just wasn't expecting it, that's all. Besides...I...don't usually get compliments so that's...new too..." Jungkook didn't want to leave the conversation. He'd take anything Jimin was willing to give. He was only used to compliments from Jihoon, and that was only when Jungkook spent the evening.

"How?" Jimin looked at him, pulling his knees up to his chest and crossing his arms upon them. "You're really handsome. How has no one said that to you before?"

"W-well, I...I don't have friends like that. They're too...they don't compliment. We don't compliment each other like that." Jungkook gave him a glance. "But I'm really glad...that you aren't like them."

"Yeah?" Jimin set his head down on his arms to look at Jungkook.

"Yeah. I'm...I'm glad that...that you're different from them. I'm glad that you're confident enough to compliment me and- and I'm...it's nice to dance. You're just so different from people I'm used to and it's really really nice." Jungkook spoke quietly.

"Jungkook...I'm glad that you're different too." Jimin smiled at him. "I'm lucky to have you as my neighbor."

"Me? I'm lucky to have you." Jungkook looked at him, mirroring Jimin's position; pulling his knees in and leaning on his arms. "...you could've been angry with me."

"Why would I have been angry?" Jimin looked confused.

"I...I've been hated before, it wouldn't be out of the question to assume you might as well."

"Oh Jungkook. I'm so sorry you've been through that shit. That's hard, and it seems like you've done it alone...I'm really sorry. But I'm glad that I'm here to be here for you. You really need someone who's like you, and I'm glad it's me."

"Mm." Jungkook broke their eye contact. "I'm happy you're here...but I'm afraid I'll just make you sad."

"You've said that a lot, but really, you aren't going to make me upset, or sad, or disappointed or anything! I've been having a really nice time with you. And...thank you for dancing with me."

"Thank you...for...trying to know me." Jungkook looked back at him. "No ones really done that before."

"Not even Jihoon?"

"He's...an odd person. He knows me, but- but we don't know each other."

"Ah." Jimin smiled a little before biting it away. "Do I know you better than him?"

"Why, do you want to know me better than him?" Jungkook didn't quite understand Jimin's happiness.

"Yeah, I do."

"Why?"

"Cause. I want to know you. I wanna know your favorite things, you know? I wanna go out about my day and think about you, like...see something and know that you'd like it. I want to associate things with you...I want to know you." Jimin smiled at him. "Is that still okay?"

Jungkook nodded. He would take whatever he could get. "Yeah. Yeah I- I want to know you too."

"Lovely." Jimin whispered, smiling softly. "We should definitely go out this week, learn a bit more about each other."

"Yeah...that sounds really nice. This might be our only week to do something fun." Jungkook felt special. He felt special, and he wanted more.

"Awesome. Do you care about how many people are around? Or should I just take you places?"

"Just take me places."

"Perfect. Do you wanna go alone or with my parents?"

Jungkook shook his head. He wanted to be selfish. "Alone. That way we can actually know each other better."

"Right, yeah. I want that too, why did I even ask that." Jimin laughed a little.

"Teach me more dances." Jungkook kept his smile.

"Oh I'd love to."

They danced for a while longer after that, Jimin getting too warm and changing his shirt, Jungkook taking off his sweater but not rolling up his shirt. He still had to be a little careful...his arm was a little ugly at the moment.

Jimin made them stretch afterwards.

"Come on, you've gotta have more flexibility than that."

"Don't shame me hyung." Jungkook pouted a little as they stretched. "I can't touch the floor like you."

"Everyone should be able to touch their toes."

"I barely can't." Jungkook whined. "This is your job, of course you can."

Jimin laughed. "But it's so relaxing? If I was your doctor I'd make you stretch daily."

"I have muscle, that's what I'm going for." Jungkook rolled his eyes with a smile. They continued to stretch, until there was a knock on the door.

"Come in!"

Jimin's mother opened the door with a tray. "I know you boys haven't eaten in a while, so I brought you some food."

"Oh mom you're a sweetheart." Jimin stood and took the tray. "Thank you mom, you didn't have to." He kissed her on the forehead.

"But we have Jungkook over! We gotta be extra kind." She smiled happily.

"Thank you." Jungkook smiled a little. It was nice to be treated so kindly.

"That's all! Eat well." She smiled and closed the door on her way out.

"Well." Jimin shrugged with a smile. "Wanna watch something while we eat?"

"Sure." Jungkook felt his thighs burn a little as he tried to get out of his stretch.

"No no, keep stretching." Jimin set down the tray before turning on his tv and looking through his movies. "If you aren't going to do it at home you might as well do it with me."

"Ah..." Jungkook sighed a little but did continue, changing it up a little.

They watched a movie while they ate, moving to the bed after they stretched and ate. Jungkook noticed the small mess on his side of the bed, also seeing his sweater. "Oh! I forgot about that." He reached down to get it, Jimin giving a small "hm?" before he blushed a little.

"Oh gosh sorry about that. I meant to wash it before I gave it back but then I forgot to do that."

Jungkook gave him a small smile, throwing it at Jimin. "Then what's it doing on your floor?" Jungkook remembered that this was the sweater Jimin had thrown off his bed. Did he...maybe like it? Worn it even? Did it smell like Jimin now? He mentally slapped himself.

No no, he can't give himself hope like that.

"A-ah, well, you see, I just...never got around to cleaning up! That's all. Yeah, I got super lazy after our outing and um, well, it definitely still might smell like seawater, so I'll wash it before I give it back." Jimin took it and held it in his lap. "Yeah...I'll...do that."

"And you stole my beanie again."

"I'm sorrryyyy." Jimin whined. "I've just been a little lazy, that's all."

Jungkook smiled, but wondered why Jimin was shy at the moment. It did not go unnoticed. "It's okay. I have more."

"I'll give them back eventually, I promise." Jimin gave an apologetic smile.

"It's okay." Jungkook laughed. "Don't worry about it at all, it's not like I need them in particular." He kind of liked the idea of Jimin wanting his clothes.

Jimin held Jungkook's sweater a little tighter. "If it's okay with you...I'll keep it until I do laundry."

Jungkook took a look at the floor again. "So...in a couple months?"

"Jungkook!" Jimin laughed and slapped his shoulder playfully. "I've just been busy, that's all, I promise."

"How busy?" Jungkook raised an eyebrow.

"Pretty busy!" Jimin defended himself. "I've been going out and dancing too. Plus I'm still looking for an apartment or house and a job. I'm very busy." He crossed his arms.

"Then why are you spending time with me?"

"I just did my dancing, you're just a nice addition." Jimin smiled at him. "And it's Taehyung's week to look at shit, I had last week."

"Ah...but...you're still looking for a job?"

"Thing is...I kinda need to be living in Seoul first, otherwise I'll be traveling back and forth for interviews and all that, which isn't horrible, but I kinda wanted to be settled first."

"Ah...that makes sense. Well...I hope that all goes well for you." Jungkook looked down at his hands. He didn't really want Jimin to leave but...but he would rather Jimin achieve his goals.

"Well...I'd like you to come and visit sometimes. If that's possible." Jimin gave him a glance. "I'd like you to meet my friends and um...you know, explore Seoul. Have you been?"

"Once or twice with my family." Jungkook shrugged. "When I was younger of course, that's where my grandparents live so yeah."

"Oh." Jimin pouted a little. "Um...you don't have to answer, but why aren't you invited to you grandparents house?"

"Oh." Jungkook wondered how to put it. "Well...um, they said I can't- well-" Jungkook bit his lip, tilting his head as he tried to word it correctly. "Well, what I was told by them was they don't want someone uh, well, tainted in their house." He laughed a little, before looking at Jimin. "Is...something wrong?"

Jimin held his hand over his mouth.

"Hyung? Is- is there something wrong?" Jungkook didn't understand what was wrong.

"I-" Jimin shook his head, before tackling Jungkook into a hug, laying on top of him. "God I'm so glad you've got the week off."

Jungkook was surprised, but hugged him back. "Are you okay?"

Jimin didn't respond, instead just let himself be held by Jungkook. Of course, Jungkook wouldn't give up this opportunity...however it made him feel.

"Well, I'm okay. If that's what you're wondering. I'm over feeling bad about them not wanting to see me anymore, cause I didn't know them anyways." Jungkook tried to sooth Jimin, though he still didn't quite understand why Jimin was upset. "So don't feel bad for me."

"I'm sorry for asking..."

"No, it's okay. I don't mind. It just is."

"I'm so sorry...I'm sorry it's like that for you- I- I-" Jimin looked up at him, his hand reaching up to touch his cheek, before he slowly recoiled. "I- I'm so sorry you live like this. Am I too much?"

"What? No! No no, this is- you- I love this. I um...like physical contact? You know. I don't get that at home much so it's really nice here. With you, I mean." Jungkook was not saving himself at all, but...Jimin didn't seem to want to leave yet so...

"Yeah?" Jimin looked at him with wide, sad eyes.

"Yeah." Jungkook smiled. "It's um...it's really nice. To get some affection."

"What's your love language?"

"Huh?"

"Your love language."

"Oh...um...I guess...physical touch? Quality time? Maybe words of affirmation? I need a lot."

"Mmmm...lovely." Jimin smiled a little. "And um...contact? Is okay? Tell me if it ever isn't, okay?"

"It's nice." Jungkook spoke quietly. He hoped that he was inviting to Jimin, he hoped Jimin continued to want to stay.

"Mm." Jimin slowly brushed Jungkook's hair out of his eyes. "I'll be careful."

"Don't be." Jungkook smiled at him.

"Mmm." Jimin brushed Jungkook's cheek. "Don't be careful?"

"Don't be." Jungkook whispered. "I want it all."

Jimin smiled a little more. "Yeah?"

"Yeah." Jungkook couldn't stop his blush from creeping onto his cheeks.

"Okay." Jimin smiled back, cupping his hand on Jungkook's cheek. "Maybe one day..." Jimin shook his head. "Sorry, never mind."

Jungkook leaned into his hand with wide eyes. "Hm?"

Jimin melted into a smile. "It's nothing."

"Mk." Jungkook honestly could've stayed there forever. Jimin's other hand started to pet his hair, running through it occasionally as their movie played in the background, long forgotten.

Jungkook knew Jimin could feel the heat off his cheek, but neither of them moved. Jimin kept his hand there, slowly thumbing his cheek, while his other hand played with his hair. The soft intimacy made Jungkook's heart soft, and he slowly closed his eyes.

____

Jungkook wasn't really sure what happened, but he definitely drifted off, since he was unsure what time it was when he woke up. Jimin was singing softly, still petting and playing with his hair. He'd moved off of him, but was still against him, rubbing Jungkook's cheek softly with his thumb.

If Jungkook could wake up to this every day...he'd trade anything. He couldn't help but smile, unable to pretend he was asleep.

"Mmm...you're a sleepyhead. It's almost dinner time, moms making something. Wanna stay the night?"

"Ah, I..." Jungkook blearily opened his eyes. "Maybe."

"Mmm." Jimin hummed, smiling down at Jungkook. "Good."

"Sorry for sleeping." Jungkook didn't want to move. He wanted Jimin's hands on him all the time...it was so soft, so kind. "I didn't sleep well last night."

"Then I'm glad you're comfortable enough to sleep next to me." Jimin brushed his hair to the side again, softly. "Your hair must be free of tangles at this point."

Jungkook giggled a little. "Thank you. I'm sure I needed it."

"Mmm." Jimin hummed again, still just smiling. "You're cute when you sleep."

"Oh?" Jungkook felt a little embarrassed.

"Yeah. You looked so peaceful. It was a nice change of pace."

"Do I usually not look peaceful?" Jungkook pouted a little. Was he not faking it enough? Or maybe he was just comfortable enough around Jimin to let some guards down.

"Mmm...you usually look like...you've got something on your mind. Never quite at peace."

"Mm..." Jungkook mumbled, still waking up. Jimin was not helping him wake up either, still softly, oh so softly caressing him. "Yeah. That's probably true. I've got loads on my mind."

"...I'm always here to listen, okay?" Jimin smiled at him. "Anything. I'll listen to anything."

"I'll keep it in mind." Jungkook smiled, but didn't feel like sharing. He didn't want to share about his engagement, or his parents's tendencies.

"Hungry?"

"Yeah." Jungkook really didn't want them to move, but nothing lasts forever. Jimin stopped soothing him, the both of them sitting up and stretching. "God sorry I passed out."

Jimin laughed. "It's nothing to worry about. It was kinda cute."

"Guess your bed is more comfortable." Jungkook stretched a little more, pulling his shirt down as they got off the bed.

Jimin put on Jungkook's sweater as they made their way downstairs. "Then spend the night and try it under the covers."

Jungkook laughed a little. "Convincing."

"Aww, what, do I need to say that I'll be there too? Will that convince you?"

Jungkook chuckled. "Well, my mom said as long as your parents are over I can stay over, so...I think I can."

"Aish, no trust whatsoever!" Jimin groaned.

"N-no..."

They got to the kitchen, dinner already made.

"Oh! Jimin, is Jungkook staying for dinner?" His mother waved them over to the table.

"Can he stay the night?"

"Of course!"

"Perfect." Jimin grinned and led Jungkook to the table, sitting next to him. "Thank you for the meal, this is gorgeous."

"Yes, thank you." Jungkook smiled at them, albeit sheepishly. He wasn't used to home cooked meals that didn't have bad energy with them. He wasn't used to meals together without a discussion of what he should be doing next, or what he should be working towards. Sometimes it was about Yeji, sometimes it was about working, sometimes it was about his friends, but it was always about how he wasn't enough.

"Oh don't even worry about it, this is my pleasure." Jimin's mother smiled wide. "Eat well!"

Jungkook smiled as Jimin put food on his plate and in his bowl, making sure to feed him well, before he put food on his own plate and bowl.

Jungkook had to admit, he liked being taken care of.

The meal was absolutely delicious, Jungkook giving in and getting another serving. His parents didn't have to know anyways, he could overeat here. Jimin and his mother seemed to love to feed him, so really, there was no harm done.

"If it tastes good, it's zero calories." Jimin smiled as he put more food on Jungkook's plate. "That's what my hyung says."

"Then he's smart." Jimin's dad gave a soft chuckle. "The stomach is the purest way to someone's heart."

"Purest?"

"Yeah. Making food for someone is love. Food made with love always tastes better."

Jungkook nodded. He had to admit, the food did taste better here.

Jungkook and Jimin were on dishes; Jimin's parents headed up to their room.

"Well, I can do them all if you want-"

"No no, let me help." Jungkook rolled up his sleeves carefully, not letting them get passed his elbows. He hoped he hadn't miscalculated. Hopefully he didn't have any bruises on his forearms.

"You sure? You are still a guest."

"Yeah, lemme help."

"Sorry our dishwasher is broken, we need to order a new one." Jimin sighed a little.

"I don't mind. I think it's relaxing." Jungkook smiled and sidled up next to Jimin at the sink. "If you wash I'll dry?"

"We can leave the dishes in the dishwasher."

"But then someone else will have to put them away. We can make is easier tomorrow by doing it today." Jungkook smiled at him. He felt utterly relaxed...there was something about Jimin that was pure and comforting. He wanted to know him.

Jimin smiled back. "Alright. I'll wash, you dry."

They played music while they worked, Jungkook happy to feel apart of something. He dried plates, bowls, pans, glass, and stacked them together, not knowing where they went.

Jimin put them away, showing Jungkook where they went. "For next time." He said.

They went to the living room, Jimin determined to show him what lounging was. They put on another movie, talking over it here and there, as they slowly got more and more comfortable. They ended up slouching, Jimin's head on Jungkook's shoulder, as they laid on the L of the large couch together.

"Mm...thank you for inviting me over hyung." Jungkook mumbled.

"Stay the week."

"Mmm...might have to go out with some friends."

"Have to? Pshh...then come home here." Jimin mumbled back.

Jungkook smiled a little. "Why, you'll miss me?"

"Oh yes, I'll miss you dearly." Jimin spoke quietly, both of them nearly asleep. "I'd think of you being home all alone, and then I'd sleep bad."

"Mmm...that's kind of you. Tomorrow...we should go out tomorrow before I get asked to go anywhere."

"Mm." Jimin mumbled in agreement, before the two inevitably drifted off into a deep sleep.

_____

Jimin woke up first, feeling his neck hurt and going to adjust it, before he realized Jungkook's head was on his own. He decided not to move, letting the poor boy sleep as much as he could. You don't move when a cat is on your lap, and Jimin found the same with Jungkook. He could easily startle the cat, so he was especially careful.

Though...he was happy Jungkook wanted the physical contact. He loved it and...he would take whatever Jungkook was willing to give.

Jimin decided then and there that Jungkook would lead their relationship. Whatever it was, Jimin would respect Jungkook's boundaries or the lack of them. He'd let Jungkook decide what they were going to be. Whatever that may be.

Although, he couldn't help but hope for more. Seeing Jungkook fall asleep to his touch did more than tug at his heart; it made him nearly fall for him. Not just a standard how cute! but rather a I wish I could see this every day.

Jimin wondered what it was like to live with Jungkook nearly the entire time he was sleeping. Then he wondered about their pretend lives. He wondered if Jungkook would want to raise a child with him, and that thought alone made him go into deep thought.

How was Jimin so taken by Jungkook? Why was he? What about Jungkook was so...so captivating? Jimin felt himself want to take care of him and make him smile. Spoil him, make him dance and laugh and live, by god Jimin would do anything to make him live happily.

He sort of wanted to confess, but...that would have to be another day. Another time. When he was more settled, when Jungkook wasn't in love with Jihoon, when he could confess without feeling like it was too soon.

It was rather soon.

But by god Jimin was in for it. He didn't care, he was going to sit on the sidelines and cheer Jungkook on, and if one day Jungkook decided to pull him on field then that was that.

He wanted to move his neck, the pain building up, so he slowly sat up, Jungkook's head lulling backward then snapped forward. "Huh? What? Oh god sorry." Jungkook mumbled, trying to sit up a little.

"No no, stay." Jimin whispered, a little desperate to keep them this close together. He knew he could convince a tired Jungkook to stay.

Jimin was right. "Mmmm." Jungkook laid down fully, Jimin joining him.

Jimin laid on Jungkook's chest. It was so peaceful to wake softly with Jungkook...he bet he was the first to really do this with him. Slow morning...no need to get up...sleeping on the couch...

It was so domestic, Jimin couldn't help but giggle.

"Hm?" Jungkook put his arm around Jimin. "What time is it?" He mumbled.

"It's- I don't know." Jimin whispered, his eyes closed as he stayed against Jungkook. He loved Jungkook's scent.

He really hadn't washed Jungkook's sweater because it still smelled like him, and he did feel embarrassed to still have it on his bed. He hoped Jungkook didn't really take it in, but either way, here he was wearing it again. It was just more comfortable. That was all.

Jungkook must have drifted off again, Jimin joining him, until they both bolted awake at the sound of feet coming down the stairs and talking. They sat up quickly, Jungkook making space between them. Jimin looked at him a little sadly before he looked at his parents coming down the stairs.

"Good morning! Did you two sleep here?" She laughed a tiny bit, Jimin nodding with a smile.

"On accident. We were too tired to head upstairs."

"Ah. Well, I'll make breakfast. Good morning Jungkook."

"Good morning." Jungkook rubbed his eyes, trying to wake up.

"I'm gunna take the car today if that's alright." Jimin looked at Jungkook again, seeing the space between them. He moved closer. "I wanna go out with Jungkook."

"Oh? So soon?"

"Yeah! Out somewhere." Jimin looked at his dad. "So can I take the car?"

"Oh. Yeah, that's fine." His dad nodded with wide eyes, Jimin trying to smile through his poor choice of words.

"Perfect! Then we'll head out after breakfast."

"So soon?" His mother frowned. "Well, have fun then! We'll try and get this dishwasher replaced today." She opened the dishwasher, looking at the boys with fondness. "Thank you for putting the dishes away."

"A better tomorrow, hm? Look at you go." Jimin smiled at Jungkook, earning a grin from him.

"There's always a chance for a better tomorrow."

"Make it easier today." Jimin nodded. "Alright let's go get dressed first."

"Ahh, let me go home and change."

Jimin laughed. "Of course."

They reconvened at Jimin's table, eating breakfast with his parents.

"This is lovely, thank you so much." Jungkook looked at Jimin's parents. "I wish I could give something back to you in return."

"Oh no, we're still thanking you for helping us move in."

Jungkook laughed a little. "That was months ago."

"And we're still thankful."

Jungkook ate his food with a smile.

They finished breakfast, Jimin grabbing the keys off the hook. "We're gunna head out now! I wanna get there before more people might come."

"Where are we going?" Jungkook stood and followed Jimin.

"It's a secret."

"Have fun boys!"

"We will!" Jimin led Jungkook to the garage. "Which car do you wanna take?"

"Put towels in and I don't mind which one."

Jimin laughed. "Hey, it didn't end badly either way! Just a little cold, that's all." Jimin got in the convertible again, Jungkook getting in the passengers seat. "I'll leave the roof on, it seems rather cold today."

"Oh today? It was cold the other night too." Jungkook teased him, smiling a little.

"Pshhh, come on, won't you let it go?"

"Dunno...you still owe me a meal."

"That I do." Jimin smiled at him. He would love if it could be a date, but this was close enough. "A meal will be dealt."

"Today?"

"Mhm. After some fun though! I wanna have fun today, since we were relaxing yesterday." Jimin glanced at him as he pulled out of the garage and drove off. "You've got this whole week?"

"Yeah, but I gotta dedicate a day to one of my friends." Jungkook checked his phone. "She wants to hang out tomorrow."

"Then come over afterwards." Jimin wanted Jungkook over a much as possible. Get him out of the house and make him happy. God Jimin was pathetic, but he was happy making Jungkook happy and maybe that was enough.

"...okay." Jungkook smiled at him. "You certainly want me over a lot."

"Your house is empty! I can't imagine an empty house." Jimin shook his head. "It's just- I can't let you go through it. At least not alone."

Jungkook laughed. "It's really fine! This is my one week in the year I get off. Besides my grandparents birthdays."

"Fuck that." Jimin hated that more than anything. Being hated purely for being gay...oh god it made his blood boil. "Come over whenever you want, you know that's always an option."

"I know...thank you for that." Jungkook hummed a little. "I will...take you up on that. Although, I don't always have my phone so maybe one day I'll pop up out of the blue."

"That's fine! Just ring the doorbell, I'll hear it. I don't sleep too deeply." Jimin promised him, wanting more than anything to help him. Make him smile, make him happy, make him laugh, fuck, Jimin was head over heels. He glanced at him again, seeing Jungkook's simple smile before looking back at the road with a small blush. "I'll be there."

"How kind of you hyung." Jungkook spoke quietly. "You really have no idea how much it means to me."

"I'm so glad I can be of help. Or even just of comfort."

"Thank you hyung." Jungkook smiled at his hands in his lap. "I enjoy being with you."

Jimin smiled easily, but it went straight to his heart. Jungkook enjoyed being with him. "I'm glad. I enjoy being with you too." Casual flirting, Jimin could casually flirt, right? It wasn't like Jungkook was in a relationship with Jihoon.

It was fine, right?

____

Jungkook was giddy when they stopped at an amusement park. All of his fear went away by the sear excitement he felt. "I haven't been to one in ages! Maybe a decade!" Jungkook got out of the car and grabbed Jimin's hand. "Let's go!"

"Of course!" Jimin seemed just as excited, letting Jungkook lead them.

Jungkook brought them to the counters, Jimin paying for their day vip passes.

"Oh my gosh oh my god we're going on everything." Jungkook couldn't even pretend to be unhappy. This was beyond amazing, this was so fucking perfect- he really couldn't begin to try to explain things to Jimin. He loved amusement parks, he loved going on fast rollercoasters, he loved running around and eating the food there and feeling excited.

God he missed this feeling.

He looked at Jimin with a large smile, dragging him along to the largest rollercoaster they had.
"Oh hyung you have no idea how happy I am. This is everything to me."

"I'm so glad Jungkook. I didn't know you loved it here."

"It's a happy surprise." Jungkook grinned happily as they went through the vip section. Being rich did have its luxuries.

"I...will say it now, but I will scream." Jimin seemed a little embarrassed.

"That just means you're having fun, right?" Jungkook loved rollercoasters, he loved them so much.

"Sure." Jimin laughed a little. Jungkook watched him look at their hands together, making Jungkook let go quickly.

"Sorry, I- I got too excited." Jungkook blushed and shoved his hands in his sweater pocket.

"Oh- I- I don't mind Jungkook. I think it's nice." Jimin smiled at him, making Jungkook wonder...what they were doing.

Was today...a date? Or was it just an apology for freezing them in the ocean? But then again, that night was also a gift. Was...it felt like charity work in a way, but maybe Jimin was just that kind.

No no, Jimin would not be interested in him in any way, even if he is bisexual, people aren't interested in him. Not even his own fiancée, not even his own best friend. There was no way someone as beautiful and handsome and kind as Jimin would like him.

Jungkook kept his hands in his pocket. "Sorry, I wasn't thinking."

They got to their desired seats and got clicked in by the workers. The back had a lot of fun whip to it. There wasn't too many people here yet, since it was still morning, but it was starting to get busier.

Jungkook put his hands on the protective bar on their lap. Jimin put his hand over Jungkook's. "I mean it Jungkook. I don't mind holding your hand if you don't mind." He took his hand off as the rollercoaster started to move, in between where they were sitting. "But if you are uncomfortable...then I will respect your boundaries."

"I- I don't know my boundaries." Jungkook put his hand off the railing, putting it right beside Jimin's. He carefully put his pinky over Jimin's. "I don't know what's friendship and what isn't...my- I don't get affection."

"Then...let's figure it out." Jimin smiled at him a little. "I don't mind helping you figure it out. I'm quite affectionate, so it might do you good to explore a bit with someone who's fine with nearly everything."

"Yeah...okay." Jungkook smiled a little at him. Jimin was so nice to have in his life.

The rollercoaster started to move downwards, Jungkook seeing Jimin's eyes widen a little before he grabbed his hand, moving closer to him as it quickly went down.

Jungkook smiled wide before laughing at the excitement of it, while Jimin screamed. Jungkook raised their hands in happiness, having fun, feeling a little too carefree, but goddamn it he wasn't going to try and feel bad about this. He wasn't going to try and make Jimin feel bad or self conscious.

He wanted to have fun.

And...he wanted to...think of this as a date. It wasn't like he was dating Jihoon but...but he was...engaged...

No no, it didn't count right? They weren't really happy together, but as far as he knew Yeji wasn't seeing anyone else. But then again, as far as Yeji knew, Jungkook wasn't seeing anyone either.

Jungkook thought about it as they walked to the next ride, hand in hand. "So we don't get lost!" Jimin had said.

But...but it was cheating, right?

But they weren't dating, so it's fine, right?

Right?

Jungkook looked at Jimin with wandering thoughts, though they became clear as soon as he smiled. Jimin seemed to have that effect.

"You good?"

"Yeah...just...I'm happy." Jungkook smiled at him.

Jimin smiled back. "Me too!" He squeezed his hand. "I'm happy being here with you."

Jungkook felt happy, but shy. He looked away from Jimin. "I'm...happy being here with you too."

Jimin hummed in happiness. "Good! I'm going to make it up to you today."

"Hey, you know I'm not actually mad, right?" Jungkook raised an eyebrow.

"I know! I'm just...making excuses to hang out with you. And spoil you a tad bit."

"I get spoiled enough?"

"Not in your love languages." Jimin pulled him closer. "I'm more than happy to give you affection and quality time. I'm the same. Although...I enjoy giving gifts."

"Oh shoot, I- I don't have a gift for you and it's nearly New Years."

"Well...that's alright. I like giving, that doesn't mean you have to give back." Jimin tugged him into their next destination.

"Oh no, I- I would feel bad not giving back." Jungkook frowned a little. "I can't let you give without giving back to you."

"But I enjoy giving!"

"But...but I..." Jungkook didn't like being in debt. That had been used over him before, but- but Jimin didn't seem like other people.

"But nothing! It's fine, right?"

Jungkook looked at him, seeing his easy smile. If Jimin was stretching to meet Jungkook's love languages...then he should stretch to meet Jimin's. Besides, no one else had ever done so much for him, especially in such little time. "Yeah. Yeah, it's fine, I'm just- I'm just not used to it. Not at all."

"Then hopefully you get used to it a little. Not that I want you to except gifts! I just want you to...not feel pressured to do anything back. I like giving gifts, that's all."

Jungkook nodded. "Okay. I...will try to not feel bad about it. I will, I'll try."

They spent the day out and riding rollercoasters, Jimin making them eat something in between to calm himself a little. Jungkook enjoyed going on the faster ones, but Jimin definitely screamed a lot and definitely meant it as he clung to Jungkook here and there. Their hands were tight together during every ride, Jimin being a little scared here and there.

Jungkook loved it.

It felt like a real day friends would have. Not that Jungkook would really know, but he had to guess it.

They ended their day at the amusement park with one last ride, making sure it was calm.

They went on the ferris wheel.

"Thank you hyung...for today. For everything so far. It's nice to um...not be alone during this week." Jungkook watched the view, feeling the need to speak his mind.

"I want to involve you as much as I can." Jimin hummed.

"Hyung...why?" Jungkook couldn't look at him. His doubt was sinking in again, even though he knew Jimin was kind. Even though he knew Jimin was different.

"Cause I like being around you." Jimin smiled at him. "I like hearing you laugh, and seeing you smile, and being out of your little shell."

"My little shell?" Jungkook laughed a little in confusion.

"Yeah. You've been shoved into a shell that's too small for you. Constricting. You know? But- but I really like seeing you out of it completely. Like, like when you were drunk. It was really nice to see you acting like a real person. And that's the person I want to get to know."

"I don't know how much of that person you'll get to see."

"I'm seeing him right now." Jimin spoke softly as he inched closer.

"Hyung...I..." Jungkook looked at him. "I don't know if you'll be happy being my friend."

"Why are you so adamant about pushing me away?" Jimin gave him a curious smile. Almost amused. But not upset.

Jungkook felt shocked. "I- I'm not- I'm not trying to- I just..." Jungkook felt self aware. "I'm just used to people leaving so I...give them an out. So they don't feel bad."

"Well." Jimin glanced at his hands, then put one over Jungkook's. "I'm staying. So don't push me away, okay?" He asked so honestly, it made Jungkook feel like crying. Jimin really meant it. He really really did, and by god was Jungkook deprived of kind people.

"Okay. Okay. I'm- I just...I'm afraid that one day...you'll want to leave." Jungkook broke eye contact, not wanting Jimin to see them water up.

"I won't. You aren't boring, or annoying, and I'm not leaving. I'm just getting to know you! And I think you're very kind and helpful. You're quite silly as well, and I think you're charming."

"Charming?"

"Mhm. You're very handsome and I enjoy seeing you be caring and cautious around me. All day, you've been cautious in a caring way." Jimin laughed a little. "I think it's cute."

Jungkook looked at him with wide eyes and a small blush. "H-how so? What do you mean?"

"I mean you've been very careful about holding my hand. While I squeezed you in fear, you've been very caring." Jimin giggled unapologetically. "Sorry for that."

Jungkook smiled in return. "No you aren't."

Jimin shook his head with a smile. "You've also been very kind today, making sure I ate enough. You kept us from running into people. You made sure I got the seats I wanted. You even let some others go before us. You're a good person Jungkook, and I really like seeing that from you. I like when you're shamelessly you."

Jungkook blushed. "You do?"

"Yeah. I really do." Jimin smiled at him. "I like being with you."

Jungkook looked down, trying to bite down his smile. "T-thank you hyung..."

"Of course. I mean it." Jimin moved a little closer. "I hope...you like being with me too." He looked at Jungkook with wide, happy eyes.

"I do." Jungkook responded quickly. "I do enjoy being with you."

"I'm glad. I want to...to continue being here for you. Okay? And I want to know you better."

"Okay." Jungkook smiled more. He really did want Jimin in his life. He was like a light in the dark, and by god was Jungkook in the dark. He needed him. No, no, that was manipulative. He wanted him. Yeah. That- that was different. That was majorly different.

Jungkook really wanted to kiss him.

"Mmmm, good." Jimin smiled, leaning closer. "You gettin hungry? I still owe you a meal."

"Yeah, I could eat. You really don't owe me anything though...I'm not mad at you." Jungkook felt a little bad. Jimin had already spent money for the both of them today.

"That's alright. I want to treat you Jungkookie. For all of today." Jimin smiled pleasantly. He was nearly right against Jungkook, their hands still together.

"All of today?"

"Mhm. We can get a dessert afterwards too. I haven't been able to check everything out around here." Jimin kept staring at him, making Jungkook embarrassed.

"I could...we could stop by the bakery? Unless you want to go somewhere new?"

"Whatever works. Wherever you're comfortable with, I just want to spend the day with you."

"Mmm, mhm." Jungkook couldn't erase the blush off his cheeks as they stared at each other. Jungkook moved his hand from Jimin's and put it around Jimin's shoulder, pulling him closer. "We can find somewhere new to go."

"Mmm...okay." Jimin spoke quietly as he got comfortable against him. They watched the view the rest of time they were in the ferris wheel.

Jungkook didn't really want to let him go...but they had to.

Jimin led them back to the car, both of them sharing a mutual feeling of simple ease.

Jimin made things easy.

They made their way to a restaurant, Jimin spoiling Jungkook endlessly through food, before they went to pick up desserts.

Jungkook really liked being around him. He was smiling nonstop, he felt relaxed, and eased, and oh god he was head over heels for this man. He couldn't explain it, he was just so captivated by him...there was something so warm and inviting that went past friendship.

Of course he would take friendship! If that's what Jimin wanted, but if Jimin wanted more...he...didn't know how to deny that.

Even though he was engaged.

Even though it was cheating.

Wasn't it? Wasn't it cheating to talk to someone else? Wasn't it cheating to flirt with someone else? Jungkook didn't know. He also didn't know any better. He was also forced into this engagement so...so was it...

Maybe he wanted to be selfish. Maybe he wanted to be horrible to himself.

They brought dessert to Jimin's family, before the two of them went to Jimin's room to relax a little.

"D'ya wanna spend the night?" Jimin laid on his bed, playing music on his tv.

"Well...I haven't spent the night somewhere until yesterday."

"If you do want to, you can take a shower first." He smiled at Jungkook. "I get that this is new for you, but I'm glad that it is. I want to be a good welcome to your new experiences. One day I'll steal you and take you to Seoul to meet my friends."

"Already thinking of that?" Jungkook sat down on Jimin's bed softly. He still wasn't used to this, that was for sure.

"Of course! I want you to meet my friends, you'd love them! They're all accepting and queer, really, it's really nice." Jimin laughed a little. "Most of them are dating, so it's just me and Taehyung left out." He pouted at this. "It's so interesting, isn't it? Wanting to be in a relationship but being happy alone?"

"Mmm..." Jungkook thought about it for a second. "I don't think I've ever been happy alone."

"Ah. But you know what I mean? Like...wanting to love and take care of someone, but not wanting to be in a relationship at the same time. It's so odd." Jimin hummed.

"Is that what you want?" Jungkook couldn't imagine not wanting to be in a relationship. He longed for one. He longed for one he wanted to be in.

"I...kinda want to be in a relationship. But I don't know what I'd do in a relationship. You know? Like, I think I'd be a good boyfriend, but I also don't know that since I haven't dated before." Jimin propped his head up on his hand, watching Jungkook.

"What?" Jungkook laughed in disbelief. "You'd be an amazing boyfriend. You've been so kind and fun to be around."

"You think?"

"Yeah! Of course I think so. I like you- your energy, it's good. It's nice to be around. You're nice to be around." Jungkook smiled at him. "I mean that."

"Well, I think you'd be a good boyfriend too. Do you want a relationship?" Jimin asked so casually, but it made Jungkook's chest tighten.

"I...I...do...but...I don't think I'm allowed." Jungkook didn't know why he was lying. He wanted Jimin to know him, he wanted to be known, and loved, and cared for, and lying is not how to keep friends, and definitely not how to start friendship.

"Ah, right. Shitty."

"Yeah." Jungkook nodded. "But I wish I could have one."

"Well, you kinda do, don't you?" Jimin raised an eyebrow at him.

"Well...Jihoon and I aren't dating." Jungkook broke their eye contact. "It's...just as it seems."

"Oh." Jimin spoke in a hushed tone. Not as if this was taboo to speak of, but as if it was sensitive information. "Well, I'm not one to shame. Whatever works for you is what works for you."

"...'s not like I'm happy with it." Jungkook spoke quietly before speaking up. "Well. I should head home."

"Aw, you don't want to spend the night?"

"If I spent another night my mother might scold me." Jungkook stood up and brushed off his clothes.

"What?" Jimin scowled a little. "Why?"

"Hm? Oh we have cameras. You know, security and all that. We have one of those thingys that lets us see and hear people by our front door." Jungkook shrugged. "So they see me getting home and leaving and stuff."

"Oh my god is that why you snuck out the window?"

"Mhm."

"Then do that again." Jimin smiled. "I want you to spend the week here. You can't be celebrating New Years alone, not this whole week."

"Aw, what, you'll miss me if I sleep in my own bed? I'd have to sleep on the floor if I slept over."

"What? No way, I'd let you in my bed. It's huge, I think we can make do."

Jimin seemed to be pressing it...so...Jungkook obliged. "Fine. But I'll take a shower at home and get changed there. Okay?"

"Works for me." Jimin smiled. "Take the keys, might as well let yourself in."

"You sure?" Jungkook raised an eyebrow.

"Yep! Just come right in."

"Mk. Well...give me like half an hour?"

"Sure." Jimin smiled softly at him.

Jungkook gave a small smile back before he left, going in his front door and getting ready to spend the night at Jimin's. In his bed. Alone.

God there was something wrong with him.

Why was he so excited? He was too excited...he was too interested in Jimin for this to be normal for him. For this to be normal at all. Jungkook hated that his mother was right about one thing.

Jungkook was easily interested in any boy.

Any boy that was his type, and sadly his type was not restrictive.

Jimin was pretty, and handsome, and kind, and so very cute. He wondered what Jimin would do differently in a relationship, what he would do for comfort, how he would kiss, how he would be. Jungkook would be fucking extremely different in a relationship that he wanted to be in.

He would be careful, and caring. He would be a loyal dog, listening and obtaining, fight for his person, stick by his side.

Fuck, he wasn't even that good with Yeji, who was he kidding himself. He'd probably be constantly worried and anxious, wondering if he was enough and doing enough. He'd be jumpy, and scared, and easily shaken.

He wouldn't be a good partner.

He wouldn't be a good boyfriend.

He snuck out his window again, heading into Jimin's house. He knocked on Jimin's door.

"Come in~" Jimin sounded so happy. It seemed like whenever Jungkook was alone, he became self destructive...but Jimin seemed fine alone.

Jungkook went inside, smiling a little as Jimin opened the blanket for him. "Hey."

"Hey." Jimin smiled back.

"I'm honestly pretty tired." Jungkook laughed as he got in the bed. Jimin was right, it was really big. Bigger than his own.

"Me too." Jimin laughed too. "I drove a lot today."

"And we walked a lot."

"And ate a lot."

"And talked a lot."

"We were busy to say the least." Jimin laughed and moved closer. "It was fun though. I had a lot of fun at least. Did you?"

"I did. I had a lot of fun. I haven't been in so long I forgot what it was like...but..." Jungkook smiled, then laughed a little bit. A real, honest laugh. "I liked feeling like a little kid for once."

Jimin blushed. "You have a very nice laugh."

"Thank you?" Jungkook was a little confused, but Jimin looked cute when he blushed.

"Sorry I just- that was nice to hear. It uh...felt different?" Jimin shook his head. "Don't worry about it. I'm glad you enjoyed our day out."

"It was really nice to be out. Especially without...you know, other people."

"How often do you get out?"

"Not that often. I mean, not good outings." Jungkook remembered his last outing was getting a ring. "Not fun ones. But so far I've only had fun with you."

"Well, I'm here to have fun. And I'm here to have fun with you! Do you go to any clubs?" Jimin asked in a whisper.

Jungkook laughed. "What? No. I'm not allowed to drink, you think I can go to clubs?" He giggled when he saw Jimin's face processing. "I'm too awkward to go anyways, don't worry about trying to get me to one."

"I just haven't gone dancing in so long, that's all. I would bring you along if you wanted to go."

Jungkook inched closer as they continued to speak quieter. Jimin turned the light off, knowing both were going to sleep rather than do anything else. "Thanks for the thought, but I'm not good at dancing or drinking."

"Lightweight?"

"Don't know when to stop, and god forbid I embarrass myself in front of you."

"Oh no, then we can dance and drink at home."

"God forbid I embarrass myself in front of you in your house." Jungkook continued to move forward...Jimin doing the same until they were closer than ever before.

"I think it's cute. Last time you were drunk it was so silly and adorable. I liked taking care of you, however irresponsible you were. I liked seeing you so laid back."

"It was embarrassing." Jungkook shook his head. "I was a mess. I was already two drinks over what I usually have."

"Two? That's nothing." Jimin laughed a little. "You would not like drinking with me then."

"Oh indulge me."

"I drink a lot. And I'm- well, I wouldn't say I'm very careful when I'm drunk."

"Oh? How so?"

"I just become very unaware of myself." Jimin giggled. "You know, a little reckless."

"Ah...I see."

"It seems like you loosen up. You say just about anything."

"O-oh yeah, I definitely loosen up, it's a little embarrassing actually." Jungkook sighed. "I really shouldn't drink anymore, I made a fool of myself."

"I wished you had stayed longer...I would've taken care of you."

"Cause you're my hyung?" Jungkook didn't want him to feel like he needed to do anything because of their ages. "You know it's okay if you don't want to take care of me."

"No...I like taking care of you, because it's you. Don't you get it?" Jimin laughed a little.

"I guess I don't." Jungkook couldn't see Jimin's face anymore, the room too dark. "But I'm glad you do."

"Mmm." Jimin seemed to end the conversation with that, so Jungkook closed his eyes, allowing for the both of them to finally sleep after their long day.

____

Jungkook spent the next few days out with Yeji, and spent one of those nights with Jihoon. He rarely had time to be with Jihoon, but...well, it felt weird now.

Not that Jungkook didn't like Jihoon anymore, but...now that he was spending more time with Jimin, it felt like somehow cheating on Jimin to spend the night with Jihoon. Plus his fiancée, but that was another thing entirely.

Jungkook was a liar and manipulative. He couldn't stand himself. But when he was with Jimin, he could. When he was with Jimin, he felt good, and happy, and real, and he could actually speak his mind and he could actually laugh and smile and be and exist.

He didn't have that with either Yeji or Jihoon. As much as he loved Jihoon, he was still secretive about their relationship, not allowing it to grow outside of his bedroom.

"Friends with benefits. That's it." He had explained once. "Nothing else."

It was nothing else. But...like Jimin had said, he did want a relationship. He just knew it wasn't going to be with Jihoon though.

Jungkook walked home from Jihoon's place, his head cloudy and fuzzy. He really was thinking about breaking it off with him, since they no longer wanted the same things. He just didn't know how to bring it up, or when. He had too many things on his plate to think about it at the moment.

He went to his house, trying to clear his mind with a cold shower, but it didn't really help. Nothing seemed to help.

Jimin hyung
Come over?

Jungkook smiled at his phone once he got out of the shower. Jimin. Jimin helped. Jimin always made his mind ease up, cleared his bad thoughts away, helped him smile.

Yeah. Jimin helped.

Jungkook snuck out his window again, heading over to Jimin's house with a yawn. Jimin opened the door before he could even knock, pulling him inside.

"I found another movie we can watch." Jimin tugged him upstairs, barely letting Jungkook get his shoes off.

"Oh yeah?"

"Mhm! It'll be great to fall asleep too. And then you can celebrate New Year's Eve with us."

"Mmm." Jungkook smiled. "You're cheery for nearly midnight."

"Yep! I'm happy you're over."

"How kind of you hyung." Jungkook was led to the bed, the two getting under the covers and getting warm. They were a little tentative still, but they were slowly getting used to cuddling next to each other. They would start on separate halves of the bed, but inch closer. Now, they were starting off closer, still, eventually inching closer to be next to one another.

Jungkook longed for his touch.

Jimin talked a lot, Jungkook still getting over his headache from his night at Jihoon's.

Jimin smiled at him. "You didn't hear a word I said, did you?"

"Mm? No, I'm sorry hyung." Jungkook blushed in shame. Why wasn't he listening? Why couldn't he pay attention?

"Don't worry, I'm just yapping away." Jimin laughed it off, but Jungkook still felt bad.

"But...I like your voice, and I want to pay attention." He frowned, his emotions getting the better of him. He felt like crying and he didn't know why.

"Hey, don't worry." Jimin kept smiling at him. He sat up a little bit, Jungkook going to sit up as well to mirror him, but Jimin shook his head. "No no, keep laying down."

Jungkook obliged, Jimin turning off the light before moving closer and moving Jungkook's head on his chest. He started to play with his hair as their movie played quietly in the background.

"It seems like you've had a rough day, so just relax while you're here. Okay?"

Jungkook felt like crying, as his chest tightened. He nodded. "You're the best hyung."

"Mmm~ I better be." Jimin sounded proud, making Jungkook smile. His soft hand played with his hair, relaxing Jungkook tenfold. He wished he could live this every day, wake up to Jimin every morning...wished he could know how he would kiss...how his lips would feel...

Jungkook felt disgusting.

How could he take advantage of this friendship that Jimin's was willing to give so graciously? Jimin was already doing so much for him, thinking about him in any other way than friendship was gross. He needed to stop that.

Jungkook had to remember that he was never going to be loved by another man, that was something his mother was right about. Not Jihoon.

And definitely not Jimin.

Jungkook started to relax his body, Jimin humming a little to himself as he played with Jungkook's hair.

So calm...so...so domestic...so lovely.

Jungkook couldn't help but fall asleep to thoughts of Jimin being lovely.

____

Jungkook was excited for New Year's Eve. He hadn't celebrated it with his family in years, so to celebrate it with Jimin's felt so fucking special.

He'd bought them gifts, alcohol, food, and everything he could, with his dads credit card of course, as a huge thank you for letting him spend the day with them.

He helped them prepare food, he helped them set the table, he helped them set up some small decorations they had.

Jungkook just desperately wanted to be somewhere, to belong, to feel a part of something. Jimin tried to stop him from working so hard, but Jungkook liked it. He liked being helpful and belonging and doing something good.

"Seriously, you've done enough! You're the guest here!" Jimin sighed and pouted. "At least let me help."

"Take your moms place then." Jungkook shrugged and chopped vegetables for her.

"I can't, she won't let me."

"Cut the meat then Jimin." His mother pointed to a cupboard. "There should be another cutting board in there."

Jimin got it and stood next to Jungkook, finally helping out with the food. "You're doing so much you know." Jimin spoke lowly to Jungkook. "Thank you."

"Of course! I enjoy helping, and besides, it's not every year I get to celebrate with someone. This is my way of thanking you guys."

"You got so much for us...we...we're more than happy to have you here, okay? Don't forget that."

"I won't." Jungkook smiled. He had gotten the most beautiful night of sleep, having Jimin's hands playing with his hair, and had woken up to Jimin singing in the shower. His mood was impeccable. "I love being here."

"Seems like you're here more than you're at home." Jimin laughed, but Jungkook nodded.

"I like being here more. My house is bland and mean. I never do anything right it seems." Jungkook finished cutting and brought it over to Jimin's mother.

"What?" Jimin spoke once Jungkook came back, working on the next thing. "They make you feel that way?"

"You met my parents." Jungkook laughed. "I wouldn't say I'm proud of them."

"Oh. Then- then come over whenever you want."

"You've already said that hyung."

"Don't forget it!"

"You've said that already too." Jungkook laughed. "Don't worry hyung, I'm not going to forget. I've been feeling better all week because of you."

"Oh good." Jimin bumped their shoulders together. "I'm glad I'm helping."

Jungkook couldn't help but smile. He liked working with Jimin...against, Jimin. He wondered-

Nope. Nope, he had to stop that. He really had to stop that.

"Jungkook, would you be a sweetheart and get something off the top shelf for me?" Jimin's mother snapped him out of it.

"Of course!"

"You're taller than Jimin, this is very nice."

"Hey!" Jimin yelled at them, making Jungkook laugh as he fished out what she needed.

"Thank you Jungkook."

"No problem mom." Jungkook smiled then blushed in embarrassment. "Oh- oh I mean- I'm sorry oops." He covered his mouth and waited for her response.

"Hey...if you don't tell your mother...then I'm fine with you calling me mom." She winked at him, making Jungkook ease a little. Jimin pulled him back into their work station.

"Getting in on the family already I see."

"It was an honest slip up."

"Might as well move in, no?" Jimin giggled.

"Wouldn't that be nice." Jungkook spoke softly.

"...how many more days do you have?"

"Just one. They'll come home tomorrow night." Jungkook sighed. "Which means I'll have to go back to work."

"Fuck man, I'm sorry." Jimin pouted. "I wish we could relax like we did this week all the time. I'll miss hanging out with you."

"I'll miss it too. I'll be hella busy now." Jungkook was careful not to curse in front of Jimin's mom, though it didn't seem like it mattered.

"Ahhh...then- no no, I don't want you to sneak out with your parents inside, that scared me the first time."

Jungkook laughed. "What, do you follow all the rules?"

"Do you not?"

Jungkook laughed. "Hyung, I'm not allowed to drink. Of course I don't follow all of the rules."

"Ah...when do you get to drink?"

"When I sneak out?"

"So you shouldn't drink today?"

"Aww, don't take my fun away." Jungkook pouted. "Please hyung? I promise I won't over drink."

"God, like I could ever say no to you." Jimin shook his head with a smile...and a small blush. "Of course you can. I'll make sure you drink moderately, I can't return you to your parents wasted." Jimin teased him.

"Oh please, don't return me at all."

"If you over drink I'll keep you."

"I'll drink to that." Jungkook casually flirted. Was it casual? He didn't know or care at the moment.

Jimin laughed. "Aww, how cute. You like being taken care of?"

"Of course! Besides, I want to stay."

"Mmm~ I wish you could."

"You boys done yet? I've never had someone take so long cutting food. Even your father is faster than that." Jimin's mother scolded them, making them laugh. "If you weren't chatting your heads off you'd be done by now."

Jungkook simply smiled. He didn't mind this kind of scolding.

They went to the living room afterwards, relaxing and talking with Jimin's father while there was something on tv.

Jungkook felt astatic. He couldn't help but smile and feel good for once in his life. He felt good. He felt amazing and happy, and with Jimin he felt even better.

If ones nights sleep with Jimin was enough to clear his head, then his head was going to be cloudy forever.

They sat next to each other, talking and touching casually, Jungkook's arm over Jimin's shoulder, Jimin's hand occasionally slapping his knee or thigh when he got excited to say something.

Jungkook loved it.

He loved it so fucking much. He would trade everything to be here forever, so casually, so lovely, so domestic. Fuck Jungkook was done for. He must've stared at Jimin for too long, as he smiled back at him. "You good?"

"Hm? Oh- oh yeah, I'm just- I'm just really happy." Jungkook couldn't help but notice Jimin's small blush.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah."

"Mmm~" Jimin smiled and moved closer. "I'm glad. I wish you could stay."

"Me too." Jungkook felt comfortable, perhaps too comfortable, but he was happy. And at this point, he was taking anything that made him happy. Especially if it was from Jimin.

They stayed together on the couch for a long time, as Jimin's mother put their food in the oven and on the stove, and as Jimin's father came and went.

He could've stayed there forever. He really could've. This close, this kind, this- this fucking domestic...Jungkook wanted it forever. He really wondered what it would be like if he was a part of the family. If Jimin's family was so kind as to accept Jimin, then- then Jimin's family would accept him too, right?

And- and that meant they would be okay if they were together too!

Jungkook had to stop himself from over thinking. He just...really wanted to know Jimin the way Jimin had described it.

____

Jungkook really wasn't good at holding his liquor. He was definitely over talking, over laughing, feeling too good, being too touchy, too familiar, fuck he had a problem.

"So...you've really been alone for that long?" Jimin held Jungkook close while they laid in his bed.

"Mmmm, mhm. 'S just me at home, 'n now I'm just mm...trying to earn some money. Y'know. Keep it secret."

"You really don't have your own allowance?" Jimin played with his hair.

"Mm? No. Everything goes to umm, the house. Ya know, since I'm working at my dads company. That's why I liked working at the bakery, cause I could keep some of the money."

"And you wanna get away?"

"Mmhm. Though...I don't think I can anymore. I'm more tied down than when I first met you."

"Oh..." Jungkook couldn't tell what Jimin was thinking anymore, his head a little busy fighting off his headache. "I...I'm sorry."

"'S okay. It was bound to happen eventually, I just...feel too young for it all."

"I wish I could help more."

"Jiminie, this is the most help I've ever gotten." Jungkook giggled. "It's really nice. Beyond nice, it's amazing. Thank you hyung."

Jimin hummed. "I'll do my best to keep it amazing."

"You don't have to do much to do that."

"Well, after all your gifts today, I must pay you back somehow."

"I'll be fine, don't worry. You don't owe me a thing." Jungkook cuddled up to him more. "As long as this is okay, I'll be fine."

"Oh it's more than okay." Jimin spoke in a lower tone, making Jungkook smile and hum.

"You've got...the most lovely voice. Did you know that?"

"You might've told me a couple times." Jimin smiled at him.

"Cause it's true! You could lull me to sleep, easy peasy. Wouldn't it be lovely to hear you in the mornings." Jungkook sighed in longing. "Whoever dates you will be blessed. Undeserving, but blessed. God, what an amazing husband you would be. And a dad? Don't get me started."

Jimin laughed. "Yeah? What if I really liked someone? Couldn't get them out of my head. Are they undeserving?"

"Oh of course." Jungkook shook his head. "I don't think anyone can be on your level."

"No? What if...I fell in love with this really sweet, really kind guy? Like, extremely lovely, I'm even smitten. Then what do you think?"

"Then I think they'll be a lucky person and beyond any luck I'll ever have." Jungkook shook his head.

"Mmm..." Jimin brushed Jungkook's hair out of his eyes. "What if...what if they're really oblivious to my advances? What do you think I should do then?"

"Confess! No one could say no to you, you're perfect." Jungkook couldn't understand why Jimin laughed after this.

"What if they were tied up with someone else?"

"Steal them away! Be romantic, god, you could do it. Anyone would fall for you."

"Even if they're really oblivious? Even if, let's say, they didn't know I was bisexual until I told them? Even though I definitely do not look straight, they didn't get it. If I confess, why, I don't think he would understand." Jimin continued to play with his hair, Jungkook smiling.

"Why not make him understand then? Wouldn't that make you happier?"

"Oh it would make me the happiest man in the world. To wake up to his smile every morning. Oh I wish to hear him sing again, I only heard it barely. And I wish he could see himself when he's happy. I'm so glad I make him happy."

Jungkook frowned a little. "This isn't hypothetical, is it?"

"No, it's not. I'm truly smitten by someone I know. Quite close in proximity." Jimin laughed. "Though he is oblivious and very, very drunk right now."

"Oh." Jungkook felt a little crushed. So he really didn't have a chance with Jimin. He was already in love with someone else.

"I wonder if he'll even remember this conversation when he wakes up. He drank so much tonight, but I didn't want to dampen his fun. He was so cute tonight, his cheeks were so red and he wouldn't stop smiling and laughing. I think I'm head over heel."

"What?" Jungkook was not catching on, as he furrowed his eyebrows. "What're you- who- who are you talkin' about?"

"Mmm~ go to sleep Jungkookie. You're going to have a horrible headache in the morning." Jimin kissed his forehead.

"It'll go away if you keep doing that, promise."

Jimin giggled. "If you wake up tomorrow. You downed a whole bottle of wine yourself I'm pretty sure."

"Mmm...it was good." Jungkook smiled a little, before he got back on track. He knew he was easily led off track when he was drunk. "Wait, who's this guy? Lemme at him, I'll make sure he treats you right."

"How would you know how I should be treated?"

"You should be treated like royalty, I swear to god. Hyung, whoever this guy is isn't good enough, I promise you." Jungkook shook his head, holding Jimin closer.

"...I think he is."

"I think you're wrong. Why do you want to date someone so dumb?"

"I think you might want to give him a chance first." Jimin hummed. "He is quite dumb though. He isn't catching on at all."

"Then...then make it make sense." Jungkook pouted. He wanted to know Jimin best.

"I think I will another day. Maybe when he won't be drunk and stupid. It is cute though, I will say. I do love this side of you."

"What do I have to do with anything?"

"Oh Jungkookie. You've had a long day." Jimin hummed again. "Let's sleep."

"Mmm." Jungkook wanted to protest, but he was in no way capable of doing so, as Jimin held him close and made Jungkook as comfortable as he had ever been, as he whispered. "Thank you for starting the new year with me."

____

Jungkook did not want to get out of Jimin's bed. His head hurt like hell, and his memory of their New Years party was such a fucking blur. All he knew was he definitely woke up cuddled against Jimin and it was the best thing that had ever happened in his life.

The second thing he knew, was that his head hurt like fuck. Jimin went downstairs to get him medicine before taking a shower after he'd provided Jungkook with water as well as a couple pills.

Jungkook stayed in Jimin's bed, taking in his scent and closing his eyes.

Really, why did he always drink too much? At least he didn't touch Jimin- actually, he couldn't promise that to himself since he couldn't remember much. He had woken up with his hand up the back of Jimin's shirt though, which he had quickly moved before Jimin woke up, but either way, he couldn't understand why he drank so much.

His head was so cloudy now, just pain, as he tried to sleep again.

"Ah ah ah, you can't stay in my bed all morning. You've gotta get something in your stomach." Jimin came back after his shower, Jungkook keeping his eyes shut tight while he got dressed.

"Don't wanna." Jungkook mumbled. He wasn't a morning person anyways, but with a pounding headache that only made it worse.

"Then I'll bring something up."

"Oh god wait, I'll get up." Jungkook didn't want to be nuisance.

"No no, stay. Until you have to leave...I'd like to take care of you. Consider yourself sick." Jimin smiled cheerfully before leaving.

Jungkook shook his head. How could he be so happy after all he drank last night? He really couldn't hold his liquor, fuck, Jimin must've drank the same amount as he did but fuck Jungkook's head hurt like hell.

What a way to start the year. He was, of course, happy to be in Jimin's bed though. That was a good way to start the year. He couldn't ask for anything better, actually, since his own bed was cold and lonely and he slept better with someone else anyways.

Jungkook felt himself rambling in his own head trying to justify being here.

He was Jimin's friend! This was okay. Oh. Jungkook felt his chest hurt a little. He was just Jimin's friend.

Jungkook let that sink in. So he really did like him. Not infatuation, not lust, he must actually like him. He had to tell Jimin about Yeji before he had anymore selfish thoughts.

He couldn't lead Jimin on anymore. It was fine when it was fake, it was fine when he didn't mean it, but now...now it was cheating. Having feelings for someone other than your fiancée was probably cheating.

Probably.

No it definitely was.

Jungkook sat up, holding his head as it pounded a little. He checked the time, seeing a text that his parents were on the way back from Seoul. So he had about six hours...but...god his head hurt. And he didn't want to see his parents.

They would ask about Yeji, and he only spent one day with her, conveniently the one where he got gifts for the Park family, and that wasn't going to go over well.

He could already hear it.

"You spent all your time with the Parks? With that boy? Have you lost your mind?!"

Jungkook was used to that though.

"Jungkookie!~ breakfast in bed has arrived." Jimin came in with a huge smile and a tray of food. "Oh, are you okay?" Jimin gave a concerned look, Jungkook erasing his furrowed brows.

"Head hurts, that's all." He smiled at Jimin. "You didn't have to do this you know."

"Ah- don't. I want to take care of you." Jimin set the tray over Jungkook's legs. "Tada~ first meal of the year! Made by me." Jimin sat next to him, kneeling on his bed. "Hopefully you like it."

"A-ah, thank you hyung...you really didn't have to." Jungkook blushed a little as he looked down at their breakfast. "But I'm thankful for you. This is the best way I've started a year."

"Good!" Jimin smiled and ate some of the fruit. "Now eat up, come on, you need something in you. Make sure to drink all of the water okay?"

Jungkook couldn't help but like being taken care of. "Alright hyung. Thank you."

Jimin nodded and ate with him, the two of them eating quietly as Jungkook occasionally winced at his headache.

"You poor thing." Jimin sighed after they finished eating. "Maybe I shouldn't have let you drink so much, that's my bad." He brushed Jungkook's hair out of his eyes.

Jungkook couldn't look at him, his cheeks darkening. "That's alright...I...I won't be able to drink for a while so it's okay. Besides! It's a celebration, I wanted to celebrate."

"Mmm~ but still. You're in pain now."

"That's my fault." Jungkook laughed a tiny bit. "That's completely my fault. Besides...I'm fine. This isn't so bad. I've drank more before."

"Oh, Jungkookie no." Jimin pouted, looking concerned. "Don't drink without me, okay? I'll make sure you don't get such a horrible headache again." He brushed Jungkook's cheek. "Okay?"

Jungkook could've melted on the spot. "Okay." He smiled softly, completely smitten by Jimin's soft touches. "I'll try not to drink out anymore. I'm pretty bad at stopping myself."

"Well...next time you feel like drinking, I'm more than happy to have you over for a night."

"Well, when my parents come home, they won't let me over. They already don't like you." Jungkook sighed.

"I'm still working on making them like me. Don't worry, I'll get them to like me. That was one of my new year resolutions." Jimin smiled at him.

"One of them? How many did you say you had yesterday?" Jungkook tried to remember. "I only had a few."

"A couple. But some are a secret." Jimin hummed and booped his nose. "Alright, let me take this downstairs and I'll be right back."

"Thank you hyung."

"Of course." Jimin didn't seem to stop smiling, as he took their tray downstairs.

Jungkook loved being around him. He loved it so much.

He had to tell him about Yeji.

Jimin came back, getting back in bed with Jungkook. "Alright, time for you to rest. Sleep as much as you want."

"I gotta be home before 5...I'm making dinner tonight." Jungkook shook his head. "So don't let me sleep in, okay?"

Jimin laughed a little. "I want you to sleep so much though! Especially here, I want you to relax and rest. You should rest."

"I will with you here. God." Jungkook closed his eyes. "Mmm...hurts a bit."

"Even with medicine?"

"Yeah. Probably just need to sleep it off."

"Well, I won't stop you. We aren't busy today anyways." Jimin brushed Jungkook's hair out of his eyes. "Okay? Let's just rest."

"Mmm." Jungkook laid against Jimin. Jimin played with his hair. "Don't let me sleep in, m'kay?"

"Okay, I won't. Rest."

"Mm."

_____

Jungkook couldn't handle leaving Jimin's house. He gave Jimin a hug before he went to his house, going in through his window, before exhaling and getting to work, starting on dinner for his parents.

He was feeling horrible already...maybe he needed Jimin. Maybe he needed Jimin to feel good, maybe he needed Jimin more than he thought.

He didn't want to go back to his life. He just wanted Jimin. He just wanted Jimin to take care of him forever.

He wanted to keep waking up with him. Wanted his soft touches, his soft voice, his care.

Jungkook kept working on dinner, his head feeling clouded and empty and full at the same time. How could he miss Jimin already? They had just been together...

Jungkook made his New Years resolution.

Don't lead Jimin on anymore.

____

Jimin decided to go out dancing. He was deprived, and he hadn't been able to hang out with Jungkook in months. It was March now, Jimin and Taehyung having picked a smaller area to look for houses or apartments, though they were still uncertain. Move in just together? Convince their friends to move in with them? Ask...make them meet Jungkook?

Either way, he needed to release some steam, let loose a little, and have some fun. He did wish Jungkook could come with him, but he was barely texting back at this point. Jimin was worried for him...but he knew he couldn't help. Not in a helpful way, since he couldn't go and scold his parents without harming Jungkook.

God, tonight was about getting rid of his stress!

But he was really worried about Jungkook. Sometimes they would see each other briefly when he got off work, and he always looked so tired.

Jimin wanted to hug him and comfort him, wondered what he would love most. What was the best way to comfort him? He wanted to know. He wanted to know Jungkook. Definitely in a more intimate way than currently.

They hadn't spoken in a while. Jungkook would text during his lunch breaks, but they hadn't talked. It was all small talk and short.

God, tonight was a night to relax!

Jimin drove, trying to clear his head. He just...missed Jungkook. And definitely not the way you miss a friend.

He arrived to the club he heard was best, going inside and finding the bar. He hadn't been out alone in a long time, usually dragging Taehyung or Hoseok out with him, but alone...he didn't know if he wanted to be hit on until he confessed to Jungkook. He just wanted to dance.

Mm, he wanted to dance with Jungkook.

He got a drink before he went to dance, enjoying the music and the feel of it, relaxing and having some fun, even though he was alone. He felt a little energy from it all, before he felt a hand go around his waist.

"Looking for a partner?"

Jimin turned to this voice, glaring a little as he recognized him. "Jihoon? What are you doing here?"

"Same as you?" He gave a smile. "Did Jungkook come along?"

"No." Jimin stopped dancing, looking up at Jihoon with a glare.

"Perfect. Wanna dance?"

"What?" Jimin glared harder, making Jihoon raise an eyebrow.

"Aren't you here to dance? I'll be a good dance partner."

Jimin didn't want to dance with anyone other than Jungkook. "No. No, I'm here to dance alone. What are you doing here?"

"I'm...trying to find someone to dance with?" He seemed confused. "You're handsome, what can I say?"

Jimin grabbed his wrist roughly. "Aren't you at least a little loyal to Jungkook?"

"What? Why would I be? We're casual. It doesn't mean shit, it's whenever we want it." He tried to shake Jimin off. "But I do find you rather attractive, so if you'd like-"

"No." Jimin didn't stop glaring, his night ruined. He started to leave the dance floor.

"Ah- hold it, now come on-" Jihoon trailed him, following him outside of the club.

"Don't." Jimin snapped at him. "You don't deserve him. He's been loyal to you and you don't even appreciate it."

"No he hasn't." Jihoon laughed. "We aren't like that. You're just jealous he's mine. I could tell the first day I met you, you've got a thing for him. But yeah, he's a little loyal to me since I don't hate him."

Jimin knew this man was bad at his core. He just knew it. Taehyung would've hated him too. "Fuck off. You- I can't stand to see him be sad about you, at least tell him you aren't serious!"

"Calm down!" Jihoon raised his voice a little, making Jimin glare and stand his ground. "Neither of us are loyal, 'cause we aren't dating. I think he's pretty, he thinks I'm handsome, what else do you want? I think you're pretty too, so what's the problem? Seriously, if you're so jealous, then try your best. I doubt he'd want you." His tone was condescending, making Jimin grab his collar and pull him down.

"I don't like what you're trying to say."

"Well? Aren't you jealous? Don't even worry about it Jimin, I'm not here for his stupid little heart. I like his body, and his money. He's too kind for his own good, but by god does he sound nice in-"

"Shut the fuck up!" Jimin shook his fist, making Jihoon laugh.

"What, did I make you feel bad? Jungkook's mine. You don't even know him." Jihoon smiled at him, cockily raising an eyebrow. "Not like I do."

Jimin let go of his collar. "You're a waste of air." He turned to walk away. He was pissed. Beyond pissed. But he had to keep it in control, had to get to Jungkook and tell him, get this fucker away from him, take away this horrible piece-

"Is that all you've got?"

Jimin turned and swung his fist into his cheek and nose, Jihoon yelling out and losing his balance, a couple bouncers yelling at them. Jimin glared down at Jihoon with disgust. "Jungkook can do better than you."

He started to walk away, the bouncer calling out to him, but Jimin waved his hand in dismissal, showing his ID. The Park family could get away with most things, and if he could abuse his power to punch a mother fucker who hurt Jungkook, then he would fucking use it.

He got in his car angrily, driving away. He needed to tell jungkook immediately. He couldn't stand Jungkook getting used like that, he couldn't stand it, he couldn't stand it.

He wouldn't let Jungkook be used like that, not in any way, not his body and money, never, god no one was allowed to hurt him. Jimin was livid, unable to calm down as he drove.

He had to tell Jungkook. He had to tell him immediately. He'd never felt so angry before, fuck, how could anyone intentionally hurt Jungkook? He was such a sweet guy, beyond kind, beyond lovable, fuck.

Jimin really needed to confess before he broke.

He was going to lose it, really, he was. He wanted to pluck Jungkook right out of here, steal him away. If only he had a pair of wings...he'd fly Jungkook far away from here.

After New Years, he truly promised to look out for him. In any and every way. He also promised to keep trying to know him, to keep trying, to keep letting Jungkook decide their pace.

But he didn't say he couldn't be a bad influence. He absolutely was going to be a bad influence if it meant that Jungkook was smiling and laughing. He just wanted Jungkook to keep smiling. He loved his smile, loved how he would slowly get less and less shy as they spent time together, loved how he laughed, loved how he looked at him.

He might be premature, but...Jimin was about ready to call this love.

His head felt a little better thinking about Jungkook. Maybe he just needed Jungkook to feel better. His tongue was rather loose on New Years, but Jungkook was so cutely dumb when he was drunk. If it was anyone else, they would pick up on Jimin's obvious flirting, but Jungkook was just so cute.

Jimin just really wanted to kiss him.

He parked his car, texting Jungkook before remembering he wouldn't respond. He had to tell him though. He had to tell him, he couldn't let Jihoon use him for another second.

Jimin held his car keys angrily, debating what to do...before he got a different sweater from his room and heading out of his house. He'd seen Jungkook sneak into his house before, he could do it too.

Be careful of the cameras...be careful of his shadow.

He moved quietly and slowly, feeling a little bit anxious about it, but he couldn't help it. He had to do this for Jungkook.

He got to Jungkook's window, knocking on it softly. He didn't want to scare Jungkook, but he knew it would happen either way. He heard Jungkook yell from inside, before he finally saw him.

He opened the window. "Hyung! What are you doing?!" He whisper yelled. "What- what are you doing here?!"

"I gotta talk to you." Jimin smiled seeing Jungkook. He looked so cute after a shower.

"Immediately? God it's cold- come inside, but be quiet." Jungkook helped Jimin inside, closing the window afterwards. "Hyung, what are you doing here? What's so important?" He looked concerned, his voice the quietest Jimin had ever heard it.

"I..." Jimin was just too happy to see Jungkook again to stop smiling. "I have...I have bad news."

"What was so important that you needed to come to my room? It's not- I don't want you to be here." Jungkook held Jimin's shoulders. "What happened?"

"It's..." Jimin didn't quite understand why Jungkook was acting off. "I..."

"Are you okay?" He held Jimin a little tighter.

"Jungkook, I'm okay. I'm sorry, this is all so odd and I'm- I don't know how to say it." Jimin put his hands on Jungkook's arms. "I'm okay."

"Oh good." Jungkook relaxed a little, both still whispering. "Then what's the problem?" Jungkook let go of Jimin's shoulders.

"Let's sit?" Jungkook still looked concerned as Jimin made them sit on Jungkook's bed.

"Hyung, you're making me worry." Jungkook looked...really tired. Thinned out, and kinda empty.

"Well you're making me worry too." Jimin took off his sweater, Jungkook blushing pink.

"Hyung! What the fuck!" He whispered still, staring at Jimin.

"Huh? Oh, I went out tonight." Jimin looked at what he was wearing for a shirt, which wasn't much, a sheer, white shirt. "I went out dancing for a bit, but- but I had to come to you because I saw Jihoon there." Jimin felt pain saying it, as he watched Jungkook's eyes light up...then his body deflate as he pieced it together.

"Oh...well, I guess we aren't really dating anyways." Jungkook looked away. "So he can do what he wants."

Jimin couldn't accept just that. "...he made a move on me."

"What?!" Jungkook snapped his attention back to Jimin. "Did- did-"

"No. I turned him down, but...I got really upset that he wasn't being at least a little loyal to you. So I confronted him a little and he said some really hurtful things." Jimin took Jungkook's hands. "Jungkook...I'm really sorry."

"Did he say shit to you?" Jungkook glared.

Jimin shook his head. "No. He said hurtful things about you." Jimin couldn't stand it, he didn't want Jihoon around Jungkook anymore. "He said he likes your body and your money- and- and I just can't let him do that to you!" Jimin tightened his grip on Jungkook's hands, watching his face go from angry to sad, to acceptance.

"Oh. I see."

"Jungkook I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I couldn't stand the fact that he was so knowingly hurtful because you're a gift to this world and I'm so happy to have met you and I want everything that's best for you and he isn't it." Jimin opened his mouth to say more...but he couldn't. He couldn't confess in the same moment.

"Hyung...it's okay. We were never a thing anyways...I...I don't think I've ever really known him so- so I..." Jungkook looked down. "Mm." He seemed to try and compose himself.

Jimin pulled him into a hug, rubbing his back and feeling Jungkook hold onto him. He couldn't even hear him cry, but he could feel it. He could feel his shakes, his gasps, his pain. Jimin hated it so fucking much, he wish he could make it all better, take it all away, make him smile again...but...but he knew he had to let Jungkook get it out.

He knew he had to be support, to listen, to just be here when everyone else wasn't.

"I- I thought I was- was enough." Jungkook hiccuped a sentence, making Jimin hold him tighter.

"You're more than enough. You're perfect the way you are Jungkook, I think you're perfect." Jimin really felt like crying as well.

Jungkook sniffed, putting his head on Jimin's shoulder. "You know...no one else liked him. I think...I have bad taste in people..."

"Aw, but not me, right?" Jimin tried to cheer him up. Jin hyung would've made him laugh, that's what he'd done for him. But...but it seemed like Jungkook needed the cry.

"You're...you're too good for me." Jungkook spoke quietly.

"Mmm, I don't think so. I like you a lot, so really, let's be on the same level."

"Hyung...I'm just too messed up...for you to want to be around me..."

"No, I really like being around you." Jimin wasn't going to let Jungkook's depressive thoughts win. He was going to validate him, to care for him, to love him as much as Jungkook was willing to be loved, and then push it further.

"Hyung...thank you...for telling me. But it's okay...he can...do what he wants, since we aren't together."

"No, it's not okay. He hurt your feelings. That's more than enough for it to not be okay." Jimin pulled away, Jungkook hanging his head. "Hey." Jimin titled Jungkook's head up with his finger. "It's okay to not be satisfied with what's happening. It's okay to be upset about him going out when you aren't."

"Hyung-"

"But if you are okay with him going out...then I'll drop it."

"I..." Jungkook shook his head. "I thought I was a good enough person...to be with."

"And you are. You just need someone who will actually appreciate you."

"I don't think that's going to happen."

"I appreciate you." Jimin smiled at him. "And I would be upset if someone I was seeing went behind my back and tried to sleep with other people."

Jungkook seemed a little uncomfortable after that. "Well...yeah..."

"I'm just saying."

"Mm...I'm...mostly just upset that...he hit on you." Jungkook broke their eye contact.

"Why would that be what you're most upset about?"

"I..." Jungkook shook his head. "I don't want you to...I just...don't like the idea of you getting hit on."

"Aw, don't worry, I can handle it. Besides, I looked good, I would expect to be hit on." Jimin smiled a little. He liked looking good.

"Yeah, you do look good." Jungkook glared a little. "But Jihoon shouldn't have done that."

"Jungkook, you should be more upset about what he said about you than about him hitting on me."

Jungkook bit his bottom lip. "Probably...but, I'm used to bad treatment and I don't want you to be used to him. I don't want you two to be familiar."

Oh. Jimin understood it now...Jungkook was jealous. "I see. Well, I'm still sorry. And whenever you're free again, I really want you to come over. I'm buttering up your mother, so I think she might be more willing now."

"What'd you say?"

"I lied." Jimin smiled a little.

"About?" Jungkook seemed concerned.

"She has an odd obsession with dating, so I said I have a girlfriend in Seoul. Makes sense, you know? She seemed a little happier about us hanging out after that."

"How much time are you spending over here?"

"Oh you know." Jimin shrugged. "Whenever my mother bakes."

"Oh fuck that's a lot." Jungkook gave a weak smile. "But...you really think that'll be enough? I want to spend the night again..."

"Yeah. I think me having a "girlfriend" was enough for her to think about it more. Besides, I'm a good kid." Jimin smiled in proudness.

"You are." Jungkook smiled a little back. "But you should head home. You really shouldn't be here." Jungkook went back to being concerned. "Thank you for telling me...I'll...I'll ask him about it. But I don't want you sticking around here."

"Jungkook, is everything okay?" Jimin touched his arm to bring any sort of comfort.

"You can't get caught here. We'll both be dead." Jungkook shook his head. "Mostly me. But I'll never see you again if my parents find out you're here."

"What kind of bullshit is that?" Jimin frowned.

"A lot of it. But please...go home." Jungkook looked...actually concerned. This wasn't fake at all.

Jimin nodded. "Okay. But explain why next time you're over." He stood up and got his sweater back on. "Okay? You're making me concerned."

"Sure. Next time." Jungkook smiled, and Jimin realized he'd only scraped the surface of knowing him. That was a fake smile...one Jimin had seen a lot. "Let me help you out." Jungkook got up too, guiding Jimin to the window.

He helped him out the window, Jimin looking up at him. "As soon as possible. Okay?" Jimin waved his hand for Jungkook to come closer. He took his hand once he did, putting the back of Jungkook's hand against his lips, then his forehead. "I mean it Jungkook. As soon as possible."

"O-o-okay I w-will." Jungkook blushed, nodding. "I will. I'll see if maybe I can get a couple days off of work."

"You work so hard." Jimin smiled at him, bringing Jungkook's hand to his cheek. "I still mean it Jungkook. I want to know you."

"G-good." Jungkook smiled back, Jimin relaxing a little.

"There it is." There was his real smile. "I'll get going now. Rest well Jungkookie."

"You too hyung." Jungkook let go of Jimin's hand reluctantly, before shutting his window.

Jimin made his way back home, careful of his shadow, careful of the cameras.

His parents were watching tv in the living room.

"Oh! You're back early." His mother looked over the couch at him.

"How did you two confess?" Jimin sat down, head in his hands. "I don't know how to do it."

His father laughed. "How else? I took your mother on a date and asked her out."

"But really, how?" Jimin shook his head. "I don't think Jungkook will believe me."

"If you're confident in yourself...that should be enough for you to try. If you really like the boy...I'd love for him to spend more time here. I love having him in the kitchen." His mother giggled a little, his father rolling his eyes.

"I'm not an amazing sous chef, I know."

"Seriously Jimin. If you like him, and you're confident in yourself...just ask him. He's just a boy."

Jimin sighed. "Alright. Thanks. I'm gunna head to bed." Jimin stood and smiled before he headed to his room.

There was nothing just about Jungkook.

____

Jungkook barely slept that night.

There was no way that was platonic. No fucking way. Jungkook wasn't stupid, he just couldn't believe that Jimin would actually flirt with him and actually mean it.

Fuck fuck fuck, he had to tell Jimin about Yeji. They were both being too forward, but Jungkook was still a liar. He was still a liar, and he was being horrible towards both of them and he couldn't help it.

He couldn't help that he couldn't stop thinking about Jimin kissing his hand. He really couldn't help it. He couldn't stop thinking about Jimin's care and comfort and fuck, there was no way this was platonic.

He went to work, his head still full of Jimin. He came home, his head still full of Jimin. Every time he had a moment to think...he would think about it. He couldn't stop. He just felt so entranced by Jimin. He was so stupidly smitten, and he really, really wanted to kiss him.

"Jungkook?" He was taken out of his dream land.

"Hm?" Jungkook blinked as he looked at his mother.

"I said you could go over. If you wanted to."

"Oh! Thank you, sorry, I'm just really out of it at the moment, I'll head over after dinner."

"It's the weekend now, so if you'd like you can spend a couple nights too." She smiled at him, Jungkook wondering why she was being so kind. "Plus Monday...we'll be going to your grandparents for their birthdays."

"Thank you." Jungkook texted Jimin happily, before...texting Jihoon. "Have save travels."

He ate dinner with his parents, then headed out. He promised Jimin he'd be able to go over later that night, but first...he had to talk to Jihoon. Either break it off or make it clear.

He had to make it clear between them before he talked to Jimin again. He didn't want to be in the middle of something like that.

He knocked on Jihoon's door after a little bit of walking. His father answered. "Oh! Jungkook, are you lookin for Jihoon? He's out right now, but he should be back soon."

"Oh! Alright then I'll wait out here."

"You can come in you know."

"I don't want to get comfortable." Jungkook smiled. "I'll just wait here, don't worry!"

"Alright kid. Come inside if you'd like." He gave Jungkook an odd look before Jungkook sat on the curb.

He had to make things clear, cause he did feel bad. He felt bad about the words Jihoon had said about him, and he didn't like what he'd said to Jimin. There was only bad feelings left.

"Jungkook? What're you doing here?"

Jungkook looked up at him and stood. "I texted you."

"Oh, fuck, sorry." Jihoon laughed, putting a hand behind his head. "Sorry!"

"Jihoon..." Jungkook shook his head. "Did you mean what you said to Jimin hyung? All of it?"

"What did he say?" Jihoon smiled a little, Jungkook looking at him sadly.

"Jihoon. Don't play dumb." Jungkook crossed his arms. "Do you mean it? I'm not- we aren't anything special?"

"I thought we agreed to be friends with benefits." He gave Jungkook a confused smile. "Isn't that it?"

"I don't think I want this anymore." Jungkook broke their eye contact.

"Jungkook, come on. Who else is even open to the idea?"

"I don't want it anymore." Jungkook shook his head again. "I just...think we shouldn't keep doing this."

"Aw, don't tell me you're interested in Jimin. You can't date him! You have a girlfriend."

"So? The least I can do is stop whatever we're doing." Jungkook looked at him again. "Stop making me feel bad about this."

"I don't want to let you go. We're supposed to be in this together." Jihoon walked forward, but Jungkook took a step back.

"We're obviously not. You're seeing more people."

"You have a girlfriend and now you're trying to charm Jimin." Jihoon raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that about the same thing?"

"No! No, it's not this was- this was different. You told me it was different!" Jungkook didn't know how to really cut it off.

"Yeah, but now you're trying to get with Jimin, aren't you? Come on Jungkook, I thought you were better than that. Anyone you meet?" Jihoon scoffed. "I thought you were-"

"Stop that." Jungkook glared. "Stop calling me a whore, I'm not fucking desperate, he just treats me like a human and you treat me like an object. I'm not yours."

Jihoon glared back, taking another step forward. "You're right. You belong to your fucking parents, like the little rich boy you are."

"I don't get a fucking choice! You think I wouldn't trade anything just to be happy?" Jungkook pushed Jihoon away from him. "I'm really done with this, I'm done with you being like this. I thought you were really nice Jihoon. I'm sad to cut this off."

"So that's it? You're going to leave me for that fucker?" Jihoon laughed in disbelief. "You're too fucking easy."

"And you're quick to be rude to me." Jungkook turned and started walking away. "We're done, Jihoon."

"Have a nice time with your new boy toy, he's a great dancer." Jihoon called out to him before Jungkook heard his door slam.

That could've gone better. Fuck.

That could've gone much better. But Jihoon was right about one thing. He did have to explain to Jimin about Yeji. That whole thing.

Maybe he could tell Yeji- no, no no, she was raised the same way. She would probably hate him.

He made his way to Jimin's house, feeling a little...free. He felt better. He could actually be around Jimin without feeling like it was cheating on Jihoon...although it was still cheating on Yeji...poor Yeji...

No. No, he was given the weekend at Jimin's. He was going to use it. He was going to take it and abuse it.

He really needed to chill and relax with Jimin. Just- a pure, good time, with their casual flirting and touches. He kinda needed it.

He texted Jimin when he was almost there, sort of excited to see him again. For real this time. He just wanted Jimin to himself, why was that such a hard thing to say?! Of course he was smitten, anyone who met Jimin was bound to be.

He was handsome, kind, cute, helpful, pretty, a good listener, a good comforter, empathetic, fuck. He was-

Jimin opened the door with a smile when Jungkook knocked.

Perfect. Jimin was perfect.

"Hey."

"Hey." Jungkook melted into a smile. "How're you doing?"

Jimin led him inside. "Pretty good! I cleaned my room."

"Oh, nice! Finally did laundry?"

"Finally did laundry." Jimin giggled and led them to his room. "Here you go." He gave Jungkook his sweater back. "I finally cleaned it, so it's free of seawater."

Jungkook laughed. "I thought you'd forget by now. Thanks hyung." He sat on Jimin's bed, holding his sweater. "It looks better on you though."

Jimin laughed. "I swim in it! It fits you like a sweater should."

"But you look good in baggy clothes." Jungkook looked up at him with a smile. He watched Jimin lay on his bed, propping his head up with a hand.

"Yeah? Or do you just like me in your clothes?"

Jungkook blushed. "W-well, maybe I think my style looks good on you."

"Pshh, this is a boyfriend sweater if I've ever seen one." Jimin laughed and sat up, snatching the sweater out of Jungkook's hands, before laying back down with it.

"It's just a good sweater!" Jungkook laid down next to him, propping his head on his hand too, mirroring Jimin. "We can trade? This one for that one?"

Jimin smiled knowingly. "Okay."

Jungkook blushed a little more as he sat up a little to take off his sweater, handing it to Jimin and taking his own back. He bundled it up under his head. "Why's it so cold?"

"Hm? Oh I was out for a tiny bit first, but I didn't find what I was looking for." Jungkook lied a tiny bit. He was going to buy the two a drink from the convenience store, but he was a little too angry to remember.

"Well, hopefully you get warmed up."

"Hey. Thanks hyung...for working on letting me stay over." Jungkook smiled at him. "It really means a lot to me."

"Of course! I want you over." Jimin smiled back. "And I want you out of your house, and in my own. Moms making your favorite tomorrow."

"What? No, that's too kind." Jungkook was surprised. His own mother only made his favorite on his birthday. "I don't deserve that."

Jimin laughed. "You deserve everything! And that means good food. Especially here. I'll help you cheat your diet in every way."

Jungkook laughed a little. "Hyung, I thought you were supposed to be a good influence?"

"Mmm~ not when it comes to you. You deserve some fun. Wanna go out tomorrow?"

"Where?"

"I dunno. Just out?"

"Sure." Jungkook was up for some fun with Jimin. He always was, actually, cause it always meant time alone with him.

"Perfect." Jimin couldn't seem to stop smiling, making Jungkook happier than ever.

He felt so free at the moment. Free to be close, free to talk about what he wanted, free to call Jimin pretty...

"You know...you've got the nicest eyes." Jimin's smile never faltered, Jungkook realized both of them were just staring at one another.

"O-oh, thank- thank you hyung." Jungkook blushed again, still not used to being complimented.

"They seem to light up whenever you're here." Jimin hummed. "I like that a lot."

"Ah." Jungkook bit down his smile before covering his face with his hand.

Jimin laughed. "What's with that reaction?"

"Sorry, I just- I'm- I'm not used to you...I'm not used to compliments like that." Jungkook could feel his embarrassment. He felt so shy whenever Jimin complimented him.

"Mmm~ how cute. Should I compliment you more than? You did something similar when I called you handsome, but really, you are extremely handsome."

Jungkook put his head on the bed, hiding from Jimin. "Hyung there's...no need..."

Jimin laughed again. "But you're so cute about it!"

"Ahhhh, hyung! Stop." Jungkook whined. He was absolutely red. He was definitely red.

"Mmm." Jimin sighed softly. "Maybe one day you'll get used it to, cause you're only going to get more handsome as you get older."

"Hyung." Jungkook tried to rub his embarrassment away. "Please, I can't handle it."

"Mm~" Jimin chimed. "Cute."

Jungkook couldn't handle it. This wasn't platonic, this wasn't platonic at all. He just didn't know how to ask him if he really did mean it the way Jungkook meant it. He was too nervous. Too scared.

"Well, while your ears become less red, I need to take a shower." Jimin patted his head before getting off the bed.

Jungkook groaned at his inability to calm down. Were his ears actually red?! Fuck, fuck Jungkook was so obvious. But...wasn't Jimin being obvious too? Weren't they both being obvious? Shouldn't one of them confess? Or- wait, who should confess? They're both guys, who was supposed to ask the other out?

Or wait, should they even do that? Jungkook needed to talk to Jimin...about Yeji. At least, before they talk about anything else.

He finally sat up, putting on the sweater Jimin had kept for so long. It smelled just like him. God Jungkook was weak when it came to him. Jimin could ask him anything and he'd just about do it without questioning him. He wondered what Jimin would be like in a relationship instead of a friendship. But...perhaps he was already experiencing it.

Going out, getting food, being spontaneous, dancing in his room, listening to music, yelling at the sky, sleeping in and being close.

Maybe he was already experiencing it.

Oh.

Jungkook watched Jimin come out of the bathroom and flop onto the bed. "You tired yet? I had a long day."

"Yeah, yeah I could sleep. I'm just a little happy to be here." Jungkook smiled as they got into Jimin's bed. "What did you do today?"

"Oh, you know. Dance practice." Jimin laughed tiredly. "I still gotta stay in shape for it all."

"Haven't found a place yet?"

"Still deciding. Taehyung's got a lot on his plate right now, so still in that waiting period. I don't mind too much though." Jimin cuddled up to him after turning off the light. "I like being here."

"Mmm. I'd like to get away." Jungkook held Jimin as they got comfortable. "I wanna see somewhere else."

"Do you only know Busan?"

"Mhm. I've only been to Seoul a couple times that I can remember. But nowhere else. Just...just Busan."

"Wanna go tomorrow?"

"Huh?"

"Wanna go tomorrow? We can leave early and you can meet my friends. Your mom won't even know you're gone." Jimin laughed a little. "Leave your phone here."

Jungkook felt a little nervous, but...kinda liked breaking the rules. "Sure. You now what? Let's do it. I want to go far away. Let's go to Japan."

"Sure. Let's go everywhere. I'll go anywhere with you. Do you think London is fun?"

"Maybe Paris?"

"Let's go everywhere." Jungkook laughed a little.

"Yeah. Let's go everywhere." Jimin laughed too, relaxing completely.

Jungkook felt so special. He felt so so special. He needed the attention, he needed this intensive care, this much energy towards him. Jimin slept in his arms, Jungkook feeling the weight of him on his chest to be the most comfortable thing he could have ever imagined.

____

Jimin dragged him into the car before the sun rose, Jungkook sleepy and wearing whatever he wore the previous night, as they made their way to Seoul for the day.

It would take a while, but Jimin promised it would be worth it. He talked to him a lot during the ride, but Jungkook was too tired to converse back.

"Aww, you're like a sleepy puppy. Are mornings not good for you?"

"No." Jungkook mumbled, closing his eyes as he felt the car move.

"Me neither, but I'm too excited! I can't wait for you to meet them all, ah! It'll be great." Jimin sounded so cheerful, making Jungkook smile.

"I hope so."

"I don't pick bad friends." Jimin promised, but Jungkook was still afraid.

A bunch of Jimin's friends all together to judge him? Terrifying. Absolutely mortifying. He was so easy to pick apart...so obvious...

"Hey. It's gunna be fun, I mean it. Taehyung's my best friend, you'll fit in like a glove."

"I'm worried. I'm not even sure why you like me." Jungkook wished he could shut his goddamn stupid mouth. He didn't mean to say that...

"Well...where do I start?" Jimin slowly...put his hand over one of Jungkook's, taking it and holding it. Jungkook blushed, covering his face with his other hand. "I like how kind you are. How helpful and thoughtful you are. I like how you treat everyone. You've been kind no matter what. I like your laugh, I like making you laugh, and I like hearing your laugh. Same with your smile, I like it, I like making you smile. I like-"

"Please stop." Jungkook could barely get his words out. "Hyung, I can't take it."

"No I want to keep going." Jimin squeezed his hand. "I like your humor, it's just like mine, so I know you'll fit in with my friends. I like your ideas, and morals, and contributions. I like dancing with you. I like how you're careful but...but still willing to try new things for me." Jimin laughed a little. "I like being around you Jungkook, that's what I like about you."

"Hyung..." Jungkook felt the heat of his cheeks from his hand. "I...I really can't I'm...I-"

"That's okay, I can. I'm happy to spend time with you."

Jungkook shook his head. "I'm not that great hyung."

"You're amazing actually." Jimin squeezed his hand. "So shush. Just take the compliments."

"I-" Jungkook sighed. "Okay. Fine."

"I've got a lot of things to say about you Jungkook. I..." Jimin exhaled. "Yeah."

Jungkook...wanted a confession. He didn't know who should do it, but- but Jimin was older so...shouldn't he? Or should Jungkook do it himself? Maybe it was selfish...but Jungkook wanted to hear the words. He'd never heard them before and...and he wanted to feel special.

"Thank you hyung." Jungkook didn't push it further. They could confess another day, if they weren't ready today.

"Anytime Jungkook." Jimin spoke quietly. "Anytime you need it."

Jungkook squeezed his hand back, his blush permanent as they held onto each other tightly. Jungkook was afraid he might confess on the spot if he opened his eyes to see Jimin driving with one hand.

They stayed like that for a while longer, before Jungkook took a nap and there was a little more traffic.

Jungkook only woke up when the car turned off. "Hm?" He opened his eyes, sitting up instantly.

"We're here sleepyhead. You feel rested now?" Jimin smiled at him.

"You should've woken me up earlier, now I'll look tired." Jungkook tried to rub the sleep out of his eyes.

"Don't worry, it's fine. I look tired too, so come on! You're gunna meet Taehyung." Jimin got out of the car excitedly, Jungkook getting out and squinting.

It was so fucking bright, but it was also afternoon now. He was starving. He trailed Jimin into an apartment building, climbing stairs. Jimin was nearly running, Jungkook smiling a little at his excitement. He was so cute.

He knocked on a door quickly, rocking on the heels of his feet as he waiting for the door to open, Jungkook catching up just in time for the door to open and watch the two embrace each other tightly. "Taehyung!"

"Jimin!"

Jungkook watched them bear hug, rocking back and forth happily...his only thought being that he wished he had someone special too.

"Ah, Taehyung, I missed you."

"You only called every other day." Taehyung smiled as they let go of each other, but never stopped touching.

"And it still wasn't enough somehow. Taehyung, meet Jeon Jungkook, Jungkook, meet Kim Taehyung. I know you'll get along, so come on inside! Let's eat!" Jimin had his arm around Taehyung's waist, Taehyung's around Jimin's.

Jungkook wanted that. "It's a pleasure to meet you Kim Taehyung." Jungkook bowed. "I've only heard good things about you."

"It's nice to meet you too. Come on inside, I already ordered food for you guys." The two walked in together, Jungkook trailing.

He took a look around as he closed the door. It was a nice little apartment, perfect for one person, although it seemed...empty for an apartment.

Jungkook could hear them talking, just chatting away as they got drinks and plates, while Jungkook found some trinkets to examine. He wished he had what they did. Fuck, maybe Jimin wasn't treating him special. Maybe he just treats everyone this kindly. At least those close to him. Jungkook was close with him, although, of course he wouldn't know as much about him as his best friend would.

He heard them laugh.

God he felt jealous...thought he knew he shouldn't. They were best friends! Of course Jungkook wasn't going to fit in.

"Come here Jungkook! I want you to really meet him." Jungkook put a trinket down.

"Need something to do with your hands?" Taehyung must've noticed him. "Go ahead and play with something! I've got enough, I don't mind."

"Oh thank- thank you." Jungkook felt shy as he picked up the puzzle from before to play with while they sat at the table. "Thank you for the food as well."

"No problem! Jimin's a little...happy to be spontaneous." Taehyung eyed Jimin with a smile, the two simply unable to stop smiling at each other.

"Yeah, a little bit." Jungkook nodded, playing with the puzzle anxiously. "He threw me in the ocean once."

Taehyung laughed. "He told me about that! And then he wouldn't stop-"

"Ahhhhhh, don't." Jimin gave an embarrassed glare at Taehyung. "Anyways, let's eat before we take a look around! Then dinner with everyone, and then I'm taking Jungkook to the N Seoul Tower."

"Oh?"

"Mhm!" Jimin happily ate, the other two starting to eat as well."

"So, I've only heard about you from Jimin, but tell me instead! What do you do for fun? I've been working on my photography skills." Taehyung sparked conversation, Jungkook anxious to expose himself as boring.

"Oh...mmm...I...I work out I guess?" Jungkook shrugged. "I don't do that much, I'm sorry."

"That's fine! One hobby is enough." Taehyung smiled. "You look strong, so I think it's working for you."

"You know he literally manhandled our couch. It's definitely working for him." Jimin shook his head. "It's really ridiculous. And he always covers up! This is what he wears every day, but he's hiding a ton of muscles." Jimin rolled his eyes playfully, Jungkook smiling shyly.

"I like being comfortable?"

"Compared to Jin hyung?"

"Oo...I wonder." Jimin eyed Jungkook a little, making him more shy. "I'll have to see, Jungkook's got a lot of muscle."

"Ah, I'm not that strong yet, please." Jungkook shook his head.

"You picked up our entire couch."

"It isn't that big. It's more of a loveseat. I needed help moving your big couch."

"Still! I can't pick up an entire sofa."

Jungkook smiled softly. "I'm glad I could help, that's all." He ate a little more before he felt bad about eating and stopped. "I'm always happy to help."

"No way, you wanna help move my bed?" Taehyung raised an eyebrow at him, Jungkook shrugging.

"Sure."

"Ahhhh, don't use his services." Jimin playfully hit Taehyung's shoulder.

"You're crashing the night, right? Consider it payment."

"No way!"

"I don't mind." Jungkook smiled. "As long as I've got a place to sleep I don't mind helping out. But I am excited to see Seoul."

"Yeah? Do you have good memories here?"

"Hm? No, I don't have good memories here." Jungkook smiled. "But I'm excited to make good ones." Maybe he could even look around for a job...no, no, not on his fun day out. This was for Jimin.

"Oh. Then I hope you enjoy your time here." Taehyung smiled softer, Jungkook realizing how pathetic he sounded.

"I think I will. Spending time with Jimin hyung always makes things better." Jungkook tried to lighten the mood after casually saying depressing shit. He never meant to, it was just so...normal for him.

"Oh, you're so right about that." Taehyung grinned. "Isn't he an angel?"

"From heaven itself."

"Right?"

"Come on, stop kidding around." Jimin blushed as he glared at them both.

"Oh no, I'm not kidding at all." Taehyung shook his head.

"Me neither hyung, you have no idea how lovely you are. Truly, you make any day better."

"Every call we have makes me feel better."

"I like when you invite me over, it makes my day." Jungkook couldn't look at Jimin, but he was happy to share his thoughts.

He didn't do it enough.

"Okay okay! I get it! I get it." Jimin stood from the table, taking their bowls. "Let's just get ready to go, I wanna- wanna show Jungkook around." Jimin mumbled, his blush evident.

Taehyung laughed, Jungkook smiling a little. "Sure. My car?"

"I brought the suv today, so we can take mine." Jimin cleaned the dishes before the three of them got their shoes on and left. "Is Hoseok hyung supposed to drop by as well? He said he might come over right?"

"Yeah, he might crash here tonight too. Yoongi hyung and the others are spending the night somewhere else, I don't have room."

"Namjoon hyung lives in Seoul, why couldn't we all sleep there?"

"His roommate didn't want us all over, plus an extra. 7? That's a lot." Taehyung got in the passenger seat, Jungkook happy to be in the back. He kept the small puzzle trinket from Taehyung's apartment.

He kinda liked the buzz of talking, the two of them familiar enough with each other for it to be happy background noise. He wasn't used to that.

"What about you Jungkook?" Taehyung snapped him back into reality.

"Hm?"

"What do you like about Seoul? Why'd you guys plan on coming over so suddenly?"

"Oh, I just had the weekend free and Jimin wanted to take me somewhere. I enjoy going places with him."

"How long can you stay?"

"Oh I've gotta be back tomorrow." Jungkook shrugged. Before his mother threw a riot at him not texting back. He'd left his phone at Jimin's, so his mother couldn't track him. If she knew he was in Seoul...

"Aww, I'd love to have more time to know you."

"I'll give you his number." Jimin hummed as he drove, Jungkook unsure where they were going.

"Oh perfect. Want my number?"

"Um..." Jungkook laughed a little awkwardly. "I left my phone at Jimin hyungs place, so he can give you my number." Jungkook wasn't sure if this was the best idea.

His mother saw all of his texts, every new contact, background checked, met parents and made judgements...he didn't...want to involve more people in his life. He already felt bad about Jimin being a part of his life...

"Works for me!" Taehyung smiled at him before the two of them went back to talking about whatever they wanted. Jungkook couldn't help but feel a little bad. He hoped the others didn't want to know him. He also hoped they didn't want his number.

Jungkook would have to explain to his mother that they were Jimin's friends, and then she would asked about them, and Jungkook would have to lie again and again like he had his whole pathetic fucking life.

"Okay! We're here!" Jimin parked the car, Jungkook snapping out of it again. He seemed to need Jimin to make him snap out of his thoughts.

God he was useless.

They got out of the car, Jimin smiling wide. "Oh how I missed this. Seoul feels amazing."

Jungkook followed the both of them, wondering where they were going.

"Where are you taking him first?" Taehyung hummed cheerfully.

"Oh you know...around." Jimin smiled wide. "I've gotta show Jungkook my favorite places."

"Fuck, are you treating him today?"

"Wait hyung, don't spend more money than you have to." Jungkook fret a little. "Don't-"

"I will! I'm going to spend so much money on you." Jimin laughed. "I'm going to buy you a sweater, and a beanie, and desserts, and I'm going to get you something as a souvenir. You've looked at both mine and Taehyung's trinkets and I want you to have one of your own." Jimin smiled at him. "Okay?"

Jungkook blushed at being known and noticed. "Oh. Um...okay."

"Perfect." Jimin grabbed Jungkook's hand to bring him next to him, not wanting him to be alone behind them. "Then please enjoy my gifts to you."

"Mm...I'll...try not to feel bad about it all. I really want to have fun today." Jungkook felt shy as Jimin kept holding his hand.

"You will, I promise."

Jimin...spoiled the actual fuck out of him. Beyond what he first promised. Jimin had gotten him clothes, accessories, food, snacks, along with getting Taehyung some things as well.

Jungkook felt a little better than before. Taehyung was kind, and Jimin was kinda right about Jungkook fitting in with them. They had the same kind of humor, and he didn't feel awkward about it anymore.

He actually felt...good.

Though, he was anxious to meet the rest of Jimin's friends.

Taehyung had made the reservation, but it was under Jimin's name. Jungkook didn't know when or how Jimin had planned all of this when Jungkook was right next to him, but, he wasn't complaining.

He felt...he felt good, as he sat next to Jimin. Perhaps Jimin did know him. This wasn't a very fancy restaurant, and Jimin seemed to know that that would make Jungkook the most comfortable. His knowing smile was all it took.

The first to come, was Namjoon and Yoongi, Jungkook introducing himself to them as they sat at the table. Jungkook got a little quieter than before.

Next was Seokjin and Hoseok, Jungkook introducing himself again before getting quieter. The more people there were, the more Jungkook felt insecure. He took a long time to open up to people, but he knew that Jimin's friends were good. He knew it, but...he was still afraid.

"Ahhh, Yoongi you should've picked me up." Hoseok nudged Yoongi, sitting next to him.

"Seokjin hyung was closer." Yoongi shrugged. "And I was already out with Namjoon."

"What were you guys doing?" Jimin seemed giddy, the lot of them waiting for food. "I've been gone for so long."

"Well, producing until we got your texts." Namjoon smiled. "We've been busy, but we've missed you."

"Ahh, I've miss you all so much." Jimin looked at them all. "Jin hyung, what've you been doing recently?"

"I got that new role I talked about!" Jin smiled wide. "Have you seen me on tv?"

"I have!" Taehyung happily raised his hand. "I've seen your commercial too!"

"Have you Jungkook?" Jin gave him a polite smile, Jungkook snapping back into reality.

"Hm? Oh no, I'm sorry, I don't watch tv. I've only seen movies because of Jimin hyung."

"He's a lost cause, but I'm trying my best." Jimin playfully joked, nudging Jungkook. "We've got a bit of ways to go."

Jungkook smiled a little at his playfulness. Jimin was trying really hard to lighten his mood.

"So what- how did you two meet? Just, happened to be neighbors?" Namjoon seemed to try and ease Jungkook in as well. Was it that obvious he was anxious?

Everyone here seemed so- so cool, and put together, not to mention handsome. Of course Jimin fit in, but...Jungkook didn't.

"Yep!" Jimin spoke once he realized Jungkook wasn't going to. "Jungkook helped us move in after I walked him to work the day we arrived. I invaded a little, but...I'm glad I did."

"He stole my beanie." Jungkook smiled a little, trying to be a part of the conversation.

"I didn't mean to! I simply forgot." Jimin huffed, blushing a little.

"You stole my sweater too."

"Also an accident!" Jimin pouted. "I'm just so forgetful."

Hoseok laughed at this. "One time Jimin forgot to leave on time so he missed his bus and almost missed a final!"

"That was an accident too!"

"He's always late too." Yoongi smiled. "We can always count on you to arrive somewhere last."

"We were here first though!" Jimin defended himself, though everyone knew it was all play.

"Yeah, cause you're showing off for Jungkook." Taehyung teased him. "You've already spoiled him half to death, he was so pale when he saw how much everything was."

Jungkook blushed a little at this. He was embarrassed to have so much money spent on him...

"Aww, was it too much Jungkook? I'll spend even more then." Jimin smiled at him, Jungkook blushing more and going to respond before their food arrived.

After that, it felt easy. They were easy to talk to and Jungkook had to say it was because they were queer. He'd never had such an accepting space before, and by god did it make everything different. He didn't have to change his humor, his voice, his shyness or laugh...he could simply just...be.

By the time they were finish, it was night. Jimin promised him one more thing, so Taehyung went with Hoseok, and Jimin and Jungkook went alone.

Apparently it was special.

Jungkook saw it before they got there. "Oh...that's gorgeous."

"It's even better up close." Jimin seemed excited. "Do you know about it?"

"Eh...not um...not really."

Jimin smiled more at this. "Perfect." He dragged Jungkook closer once they parked, getting in line for the trolly. "It's so beautiful up there. You can see Seoul so perfectly. And I think that it looks amazing both day and night."

"Oh! Okay, that's really cool." Jungkook loved that Jimin was comfortable to hold his hand at any given time. It seemed that when he was excited, he did it without thinking.

"So how did you like them? I know they're a lot, but it seemed to me like you had fun?"

"I did. They felt...special." Jungkook smiled at Jimin. "And I'm glad you have them in your life."

"Probably yours too though."

"Hyung..." Jungkook shook his head. "I don't want their numbers in my phone."

"Oh shit." Jimin sighed. "You're right. I'll just have to buy you a different phone."

"Hyung!" Jungkook laughed. "That should not be your first thought."

"Why not? I want to care for you." Jimin pulled him closer. "Is that a problem?"

Jungkook couldn't stop his cheeks from becoming pink. "N-no. But that's different..."

"Jungkook. I'm going to do my best to make your life better." Jimin took him on the trolly. "I promise I'll be good to you." He held Jungkook's hand with a new meaning. This was a confession...wasn't it?

Jungkook blushed and looked away. "Then...I'll be in your care." He hoped it was enough. He hoped Jimin understood.

They got to the top of the N Seoul Tower, Jungkook in absolute awe. It was just...gorgeously bright and stunning. The stars were just as bright, and so was Jimin.

"Isn't it beautiful?" Jimin spoke quietly. "I...I'm glad that I get to share such lovely places with you. I know you want to get out of Busan, and I want to show you how nice it is here. Nowhere is perfect, but..."

"When I'm with you." Jungkook looked at the city lights. "When I'm with you...things are perfect."

"Jungkook..." Jimin smiled at him, Jungkook actively avoiding eye contact. "Thank you. I do have...one more thing for us to do tonight."

"What more could you even do? This is already everything I've ever wanted and more. This is- this is like a dream."

"It's the secret! I think um...you'll understand when we get there." Jimin laughed a little shyly. "Um...yeah."

"Mmm." Jungkook couldn't look away from the lights of the city and the light of the stars. "You do so much for me hyung...I want to...to...do more for you. I don't do enough."

"You give me your time, your energy, your patience, and your laugh and smile. To me? That's enough." Jimin squeezed his hand. "I...I know that I don't know everything that's going on inside your house. So as long as I am comfort and happiness to you...then...that's as much as I can do."

Jungkook finally looked at him with a smile. "Hyung can we...can we take a um...picture together?" He wanted to remember this forever.

"Of course." Jimin got his phone out, the two taking a tacky picture full of happiness before Jimin giggled. "Let's go to our last thing in Seoul."

"Okay." Jungkook was simply so...giddy. So happy, so dazed, so- so in love.

He was smitten, bewitched, taken.

He'd never felt this before.

Jimin led him to the area Jungkook was wondering about. "Now, I...I don't know if- if this is something you want to do, so we can just look at it-"

"I want to do it." Jungkook smiled. He knew about the locks of love.

"O-okay." Jimin smiled at him. "I don't know when the both of us will be able to go to Seoul again so...I...want to solidify it I think."

"Solidify what?" Jungkook's hopes were high.

They bought a lock, Jimin pulling a sharpie out of his pocket. "...if anything, our friendship."

Jungkook kept his smile, but he...wanted more. "Then let's solidify our friendship."

Jimin nodded, writing a date. Jungkook wondered what date he put...he'd have to ask later. They found a spot, clicking it into the fence.

Jungkook, although disappointed, was still incredibly happy. He wasn't an idiot. Jungkook knew that Jimin was flirting with him, knew Jimin was nervous and blushing as they made their way back to the car. He knew Jimin was interested in him.

But...but he...didn't want to make the first move. He was too scared, and he was younger. He wasn't sure what to do with another man in the picture, especially who was older. Should he wait? Should he confess first?

This lock though...that wasn't for friendship.

Their car ride was nearly silent, as Jungkook watched the city lights pass by. They were both tired and reluctant to say more on the subject. Jungkook didn't know how to signal to Jimin without outwardly saying it. They were both being so forward but neither were saying anything.

They made it to Taehyung's apartment, heading in quietly. Jimin held his hand, heading into the guest room. "Taehyung's asleep and Hoseok's on the couch. We can take showers in the morning?"

"Sure." Jungkook shrugged. They got a little cleaned up, washing their faces and brushing their teeth, changing their clothes.

They quietly got into bed. "Thanks for coming Jungkook. I know it was random." They cuddled closely...but...it felt different.

"Hyung? Um...what...what date? Did you put on the lock?" Jungkook was too curious. He needed to know.

"Oh um...I...put the first day of the year. When we...when you spent the night. I..." Jimin laughed, but Jungkook could tell he was flustered. "Yeah."

"Did something special happen?" Jungkook didn't remember too much.

"...yeah. Yeah, something special did happen. But you were too drunk to remember."

"Then tell me what happened?" Jungkook wanted to know. He missed something.

"Another day."

"Tell me hyung." Jungkook sighed. "I want to know."

"A...another day." Jimin concluded their conversation. "I'm tired. We're leaving tomorrow morning and I have to drive so...another day."

Jungkook sighed. "Alright hyung. Rest well."

He really wanted to know what happened. So something did happen. He felt Jimin fall asleep against him, but he couldn't sleep knowing that something had happened on New Years. He was fucking drunk, what did he do? Did he do something stupid? If he confessed on New Years, then why wasn't Jimin asking him out!

Fuck, what happened? What happened?

____

Jungkook was groggy the next morning, having slept a little bad, and not sleeping enough. It was weird to sleep in a strangers house, but Jimin still made him comfortable.

Jimin always made him comfortable.

They ate lunch, having slept through breakfast, before Jimin begrudgingly said his goodbyes, and they made their way home.

The ride was...still...sort of awkward.

Neither of them were bringing anything up. But they both knew, when they would glance at each other and catch the other. It was...the most Jungkook had ever felt for someone.

But...he didn't know how to say it.

They made it home around 6pm, both of them tired and drained.

"Wanna get takeout? I don't feel like making something." Jimin went to the kitchen in defeat.

"Yeah. I'm too tired." Jungkook sat on the couch, exhausted.

"Oh, by the way my parents are out." Jimin grabbed some glasses and a bottle of wine before going over and sitting next to Jungkook.

"What?" Jungkook looked at the glasses that Jimin was pouring.

"My parents are out?"

"Jimin! I'm not allowed over if your parents aren't home." Jungkook fret.

"So?" Jimin handed Jungkook a glass, relaxing on the couch a little more. He looked at Jungkook as he drank. "Your parents aren't home either, and this isn't the Victorian times."

"I- I guess you're right." Jungkook felt a little relieved before...feeling embarrassed at being alone with Jimin.

Completely alone.

"So! I'll order food, we can watch a movie, and relax. I really hope you had fun yesterday, I know it was short but one day I...want to show you more."

"I want to see more." Jungkook took a tentative sip. They didn't stop for food in hopes to get through rush hour traffic, so he was drinking on an empty stomach. "What movie?"

"You pick one, I'll call for food." Jimin grinned and stood up to make a call, Jungkook getting up to look at their movies.

They came back to the couch after getting food and picking a movie, both of them on their next glasses.

Jungkook...liked it a lot. He liked him a lot.

Maybe he loved him. Maybe he did. He did enough to let him do whatever he wanted.

After they'd eaten, drank a little more, and watched the movie, Jungkook was pleasantly buzzed.

"Wait wait, come- stand up- let's dance." Jimin stood up and took Jungkook's hand, dragging him up off the couch.

"Hm?"

"These end credits have good counts, let's dance." Jimin moved the coffee table and started to waltz with him, Jungkook rather drunkenly trying to keep up.

"Hyung hold up I- I'm not good with my feet."

"Are you good with your hands?"

Jungkook shrugged. "Dunno."

"Mmm." Jimin led him, giving him time to catch his footing before speeding up. "You're cute you know. You drink so much for someone who can't hold anything."

"Tastes good. At least 'm not wasted." Jungkook laughed a little, looking at Jimin while they danced.

"Oh! Good job! You're a natural. Eyes on me." Jimin grinned proudly.

"My eyes are always on you." Jungkook cursed his loose tongue but- but Jimin looked beautiful.

"Good." Jimin smiled wider, bringing in the easy technique of moving them in circles. "I like when your eyes are on me."

"I like looking."

Jimin dipped him over the couch. "Then keep looking."

Jungkook grabbed onto Jimin again, still scared of falling, but he did stare at Jimin. His eyes were still as beautiful as the stars. "You're pretty."

"Thank you!" Jimin dropped him on the couch, taking the movie out and putting it away. "You have lovely eyes." He poured another glass of wine for himself. "Do you want another?"

"Might as well, no?" Jungkook smiled sleepily, drunk off of Jimin. He'd take anything Jimin was willing to give...but maybe he needed to force it out of him.

They sat next to each other on the couch, Jungkook still drunk, Jimin tipsy.

"Hyung?

Jimin turned his head to him, a pleasant smile on his face. "Hm?"

Jungkook really couldn't help himself. He slowly put his hand on Jimin's thigh. "Hyung...hyung, why did you choose that date for the lock? I'm not an idiot, I'm not stupid. I know what- what those locks mean. I just- I just need to know...why you chose that date."

"Jungkook..."

"I'm not dating Jihoon. I..." Jungkook looked at Jimin's lips. "I broke it off with him."

Jimin nodded.

"So...tell me, please." Jungkook was drunk, his tongue speaking before his brain could process it. He just wanted Jimin to make it clear.

"I...I...it's the day that I...think I fell in love with you. It was the day that I think I really fell in love with you." Jimin blushed as he stared at Jungkook. "I...I felt myself wanting to treat you specially, wanting to make you smile and laugh and nothing- nothing was platonic. It- I-"

Jungkook squeezed his hand, feeling Jimin's thigh tense under his touch. "Then- then I wanna- I wanna-"

Jimin blushed as he took Jungkook's hand off his thigh...and sat up, swinging his leg over Jungkook's to straddle him. He put Jungkook's hand back on his thigh. "What do you wanna do?" Jimin's eyes were different.

Jungkook couldn't help but blush. Jimin's eyes were- they were different. They were so fucking hot, his entire atmosphere was different. "I wanna kiss you." Jungkook whispered. He really hoped they were on the same page.

"And I want you to touch me." Jimin whispered back, as he leaned in and kissed Jungkook.

They were absolutely on the same page.

Jungkook...had never felt so lucky. Jimin's lips were soft, so fucking kissable, and so easy to fall in love with. Jimin led the kiss easily; he had Jungkook in the palm of his hand and he didn't even know it. He went slow, and carefully, while guiding Jungkook's other hand to his thigh as well.

"I said I want you to touch me Jungkook. Can you do that?" Jimin pulled away, keeping their noses close.

Jungkook nodded a little, eyes wide, entranced by Jimin. Yes, yes he can be an obedient dog.

"Then do it." Jimin giggled a little, Jungkook blushing more, as he kissed Jungkook again.

This time, Jimin held the back of his neck, kissing a little more roughly than the first soft, sweet kiss. Jungkook rubbed up, and down Jimin's thighs, carefully at first, before testing his luck a little. He slid his hands to Jimin's ass, blushing deeply at the feeling. Jimin bit down on Jungkook's lip, making Jungkook jump a little, his hands tightening on instinct, making him blush even more.

"Sorry." Jungkook felt embarrassed. Jimin's ass was...fuck...

"Oh, don't apologize. You can touch anywhere...I just want you to open your mouth a little for me." Jimin smiled at him, Jungkook drunk and dazed. Jimin was just too pretty.

"Okay." He would do anything really.

Jimin went back to kiss him, licking Jungkook's bottom lip, which Jungkook took as his queue to open his mouth a little. Jimin licked into his mouth immediately, his hand raking into Jungkook's hair.

Jungkook shivered as he felt Jimin's nails against his scalp, but god damn it did it feel good. He was absolutely in heaven, his hands on Jimin's ass, kissing Jimin, Jimin on top of him. What the fuck could even compare?

Jimin pulled away again, humming in approval. "Wanna head to my room? I'd rather get comfortable."

"Sure." Jungkook stood up with Jimin in his arms, startling Jimin and making him latch on to him. His arms went around Jungkook's neck, and his legs wrapped around his waist.

"Jesus fuck you're strong." Jimin blushed as Jungkook walked them up the stairs, careful not to bump Jimin into anything. He cared about not hurting him.

"I like it."

"Well fuck, me too." Jimin laughed, staring at Jungkook with a smile.

Jungkook set Jimin down on his bed, both of them smiling and staring at one another. "Hey."

"Hey."

"...I'm not...I'm not drunk."

"I'm pretty much sober." They spoke with meaning.

"I...I really like you Jimin." Jungkook finally fucking said it. "I really really fucking like you."

"I like you to." Jimin smiled at him. "Can I...keep kissing you?"

"Yes." Jungkook was completely entranced. Jimin could ask anything and he'd be willing to do it. "Yes, please."

"Mmm~" Jimin hummed in approval. "Well, I was comfortable on your lap. Are you comfortable with me on your lap?"

"Yeah. Yeah, I'm- it feels amazing." Jungkook was red, but happy. He liked that Jimin was asking such cute questions.

"Move in the middle of the bed more." Jimin directed him, Jungkook obeying. Jimin sat on his lap again. "There. And- and you're okay with kissing?"

"Jimin, you could do damn near anything and I'd love it." Jungkook put his hands around Jimin's waist. "Mk? I'm okay with everything."

"Perfect." Jimin melted into a smile, kissing Jungkook again. He let it be soft and careful as he slowly took Jungkook bottom lip in between his own, making them kiss with rhythm and passion.

God Jimin was perfect. Jungkook wanted it all. He slowly laid down, Jimin staying on top of him as they simply kissed and held each other.

Jungkook wanted this forever.

Jimin pulled away, Jungkook following him a little. "I did say that you could touch me."

"Too nervous." Jungkook whispered, smiling softly. Jimin was so pretty on top of him. "Don't wanna do something you don't like."

Jimin giggled. "Jungkook, I don't think there's a single thing you could do that I wouldn't like."

"W-well, what would you like me to do?" He couldn't stop smiling at Jimin...he was just so...pretty. He seemed to glow when he was happier. Jungkook wanted to do everything he could to keep him happy and glowing.

"Mmm...do you mind if-"

"I don't mind." Jungkook cut him off.

Jimin laughed. "Mk." He sat up a little, unbuttoning his pants.

"Oh." Jungkook blushed deeply.

"Let me get this off." Jimin wiggled out of his pants, Jungkook unable to look away. "There we go." Jimin smiled at him, leaning down to kiss Jungkook again. "You like anything?"

"Yeah." Jungkook whispered, still entranced, completely entranced. "Yeah, I like everything."

"Good." Jimin kissed him, slowly guiding Jungkook's hands lower.

"Fuck." Jungkook spoke weakly as he blushed red. Jimin giggled a little, smiling into the kiss.

"What, is it not what you were expecting?" Jimin hummed happily.

"No, I- you just- I wasn't- I didn't know." Jungkook felt embarrassed to have his hands on Jimin's ass. "...'s not like I had an idea."

"You've never looked? Or wondered?"

"N-not on purpose. Didn't wanna...make you uncomfortable." Jungkook stared at Jimin's lips. He really wanted more. More of everything.

"I love when you look at me though. You look so...so cute." Jimin laughed. "I love it."

"You're just so confident." Jungkook blushed darker, feeling embarrassed and hot. "And I- I'm not. I'm not confident at all."

"Oh, but you definitely flirted back. That's confidence."

"No it isn't." Jungkook shook his head. "I was just being weird."

"No no, I found it cute. I think you're very cute. Do you like being called cute?" Jimin kissed him softly.

"I...I do but I like...being called pretty more."

"We'll, you're very pretty too." Jimin peppered his face in kisses. "I always wanted to kiss your little moles. And all of you. All of you...I want to kiss every part of you."

"O-oh I..." Jungkook laughed in embarrassment. "Then...then you can. I'd like that."

Jimin hummed in approval. "Another night. When I can really really appreciate you. For now...I think I'd like to stay like this."

"Okay." Jungkook smiled. He was happy to kiss Jimin forever. "I think I'm fine with that."

Jimin smiled back and kissed him rhythmically once again, taking his lower lip and keeping it going. He moved against Jungkook's hands a little, earning a small whimper from him.

"Oh gosh, I like the sound of that." Jimin giggled again. "I'm sorry, I'm just- I'm really happy."

"There's no way you're happier than me." Jungkook laughed a little.

"I think I might be." Jimin laid on him completely, arms crossed on Jungkook's chest. He rested his chin on his arms. "I think I really might be the luckiest man right now."

Jungkook laughed louder. "No way! You- I don't know why you think I'm so great. Really, I'm not. You though...you're amazing. I...I'm not even on your level, I-"

"You are, and I really like you Jungkook." Jimin giggled. "It feels nice to be able to say it."

"You could've said it at any time." Jungkook smiled at him.

"No, I couldn't. I didn't know what you and Jihoon were so I couldn't risk that." Jimin moved his hands to hold Jungkook's cheeks, slowly caressing him with his thumbs. "I wanted you to tell me when you were um...you know, single. I couldn't risk it."

"Ah." Jungkook felt a twinge of pain. "Well, I kinda waited for you c-cause I wanted to make sure that I wasn't mistaking things."

"How could you mistake things? I was coming onto you very hard." Jimin smiled and kissed Jungkook softly, still caressing his cheeks. "I just wanted you to look at me forever. If you weren't stupid drunk on New Years you would've figured it out. I wish you could've seen yourself...you were so cute." He kissed him again.

Jungkook was in absolute heaven. He ran his hands to Jimin's waist, then up his shirt, resting them on his back. "I was drunk, how was that cute?"

"Cause! You were complimenting me over and over and I loved it." He kissed him again. "It was cute how dumb you were. I was so obviously talking about you that night, but you were so out of it. I'm just so happy that I can say all I want now." Jimin kissed him again.

Jungkook smiled. "I'm happier. You- I- I can't explain how much you've made my life bearable. You're the only good that's ever happened to me."

"Oh Jungkook..." Jimin kissed him again. "You're sweet. You're very very sweet."

"I mean it. Nothin' goes well for me here. I don't even remember the last time I'd honestly laughed before you came. I...Jimin..." Jungkook shook his head. "I was trying...to- to run away. The day you met me. You probably thought I was just shy but...I thought it was so unlucky to have met you the day I was trying to leave. Now though...I...I would stay forever to be with you."

Jimin moved up a little bit, putting his forehead against Jungkook's. "...move with me to Seoul."

"I'd love to but-"

"You were running away then, why can't you run away now?"

"I- you know what? Yeah. You're right. But- but I don't want to intrude-"

"Jungkook. My friends loved having you over. They loved meeting you and learning about you, and I had a nice call with them when you slept in the car...um...we're thinking of moving into one house together...and...I introduced the idea of you joining."

"Oh?" Jungkook was utterly surprised.

"Would you want to join us? It's really cool, it's like- it's like little apartments in one house."

"Seriously?"

"Yeah. I'd- I'd love to um...share...with you?"

"You are a bad influence." Jungkook smiled, happy to his core. "Let's do it. I want to run away."

"We um...we're hoping for next month actually. We already put down a payment."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"I was scared you'd think I was leaving."

"Ah...well, I'm- I'm just glad you feel the same." Jungkook smiled. "I couldn't ask for anything more."

"I gotta tell my parents." Jimin smiled back. "They'll be happy."

"Really?"

"They love you too."

"Oh." Jungkook smiled more. "Really?"

"Yeah. They really do." Jimin kissed his nose.

"Mmmm." Jungkook felt amazing. "Good. I'm glad."

Jimin kept rubbing Jungkook's cheeks with his thumbs. "You ready for bed? My heads a little fuzzy."

"Yeah. I'm still a little tipsy but I'm tired."

They tiredly changed their clothes and cleaned themselves up, before getting into bed...this time feeling the weight of being alone.

Jimin cautiously moved against him, Jungkook pulling him close. "I like cuddling, so don't be cautious about it okay? I live off of physical contact."

"Fuck, then how were you living before I came?"

"I wasn't."

"Oh." Jimin moved closer, both of them holding the other tightly. "Oh."

"Mmm."

"Then...I promise I'll take good care of you."

"I'll be the best I can be, and I'll- I'll learn Jimin, I'll learn anything...to be good for you and towards you." Jungkook whispered. "So...so please, please don't give up on me."

"I'll be patient too. I understand some of your life, but obviously I don't know all of it. I'll be patient."

"Thank you..." Jungkook felt so fucking happy...but...

But he still had to explain about Yeji.

____

Jungkook was panicked the next morning. His mother texted him that Yeji was coming over in the morning and Jungkook didn't know until he slept in and saw she was outside waiting.

He'd quickly gotten ready, but Jimin wanted to meet her.

Fuck, Jungkook felt panicked. He had to talk to Yeji today.

Jimin seemed happy today, relaxed and glowing, while Jungkook felt like he was going to cry.

They exited Jimin's house, Yeji leaning on her car. She seemed surprised to see them come out of Jimin's house. "Hey Jungkook!"

He felt his chest tighten. "H-hey." He went over, Jimin following with a leap in his step. "Um, Yeji, meet Park Jimin, he's my neighbor. Jimin hyung, this is Hwang Yeji."

"Nice to meet you!" Jimin smiled and gave a small bow.

Yeji eyed Jungkook. "Nice to meet you too. I'm Jungkook's fiancée." She out her hand out to shake Jimin's.

"Oh!" Jimin kept his smile and shook her hand. "Congratulations!"

Jungkook's soul left his body.

His face paled, his chest tightened, and he visibly looked unwell. "J-Jimin-" Jungkook gave him a look, one that Jimin simply smiled and shook his head at.

"Come back over when you're done, mk?" Jimin put his hand on Jungkook's arm. "We promised dinner, no?"

"Right." Jungkook faked a smile. Jimin was getting better at lying.

"It was nice to meet you!" Jimin waved goodbye to them as he walked back to his house.

The two of them got in Yeji's car.

"What the hell was that Jungkook? Why didn't you introduce me as your fiancée?" She crossed her arms, glaring at him a little.

"Yeji..." Jungkook was scared. He...he had to....he had to explain to her that he was leaving. "Maybe..."

"Okay." She sighed. "To the park please."

The driver nodded and drove to their destination. She dragged Jungkook out to a bench.

"What's wrong?"

"Yeji..." Jungkook didn't know how to say it. How to say anything.

"Just tell me." She looked fed up.

"Yeji, I don't like girls." Jungkook spoke quietly, looking down. "I- I'm not- I...I'm gay."

"What?"

"Don't make me say it twice. I- I can't marry you. You're a good friend, but I can't and will not be able to feel more than that." Jungkook looked at her. "I'm not...this is entirely bad for me."

"Oh." She seemed a little taken aback, but then she nodded. "Okay. Okay. We can- this is fine. Neither of us wanted this then." She took off the engagement ring, handing it to Jungkook. "Tell your parents to fucking leave me alone...and keep being my friend, okay?" She smiled. "I'm bi, Jungkook. So...so you could've told me. Let's take control of our lives."

Jungkook could've cried from joy. "Really?"

"Really."

"Oh Yeji thank you." He pulled her into a hug. "Thank you so much. I'm leaving next month, I'm going to Seoul."

"That's awesome Jungkook. I don't know when I'll be leaving, but I've got some friends who live in Seoul too. So...one day I'll get out, okay? Until then...I'll update you." She smiled. "Okay?"

"Okay!" Jungkook really could've cried. He pocketed the ring. "I'm- you know what? Yeah. I'm done being fucked over."

He finally had a reason to live.

"Let's do it." She smiled. "Okay? Let's do it."

"Yeah." He smiled back. "Jimin's um...who I'm interested in, by the way. I gotta clear the air but...but this is amazing."

"Go get him. He seems lovely."

"He's amazing." Jungkook smiled more.

"Go be happy Jungkook. Do it, really, I mean that."

"You too."

They both went back into the car with a much happier mood, before she dropped Jungkook off at Jimin's.

Jungkook took a big breath before ringing Jimin's doorbell.

Jimin opened the door, letting Jungkook in. "That was quick."

"Hyung, we broke up." Jungkook held Jimin's shoulders, panicked once again. "We talked it out and- and I finally told her and I- I really like you Jimin, I really like you." He felt his eyes start to tear up. He didn't want Jimin to hate him. Not after everything they'd been through, not after everything Jungkook had confessed.

"Jungkook-"

"I mean it Jimin, please, I meant it when I said you're the only good thing that's happened to me." He couldn't help but close his eyes, hanging his head as his eyes teared up and finally cried. "I- I've been horrible f-for as long as I've known you. For even longer, but- but I- I cleaned up. I finally cleaned my mess and I- I just don't want you to hate me." Jungkook cried. "I just don't want you to hate me."

"...did you ever love her?"

"No. No, I never did." Jungkook sniffed, trying to collect himself.

"Then Jungkook, there's nothing wrong. I knew you'd explain it all to me, but now I can't help but wonder...is this something your parents made you do?"

"M-mhm." Jungkook felt Jimin pull him into a hug.

"I could never hate you Jungkook. You haven't been able to live a normal life, I can't hold anything against you. And I...I really like you, I want to know you better and learn more about you and travel with you and keep you safe and happy and healthy, and I want you."

"Jimin." Jungkook broke down crying. He held him tight, feeling relief and happiness and fear and everything at the same time.

"Get it out." Jimin rubbed his back.

They stood together until Jungkook finally stopped crying. He sniffed, trying to catch his breath.

"Better?"

"Better."

"Okay. Now, let's get something in your stomach, you haven't eaten all morning." Jimin smiled and pulled him to the kitchen letting him sit at the island. "Was Yeji alright with everything?"

"Yeah. She told me to be happy so- so I'm here." Jungkook laughed, pulling out the ring and looking at it. "She also told me to tell my parents to leave her alone, so- so I- I think I'm gunna get kicked out."

Jimin made something quick and easy, sitting next to Jungkook after giving him a bowl.

"Oh. That's- I could, well, I could drive you back to Seoul and have you live with Taehyung for the month before we all move into the big house?" Jimin looked at the ring. "Oh gosh that's beautiful."

"You want it? Otherwise I'm throwing it at my mother."

Jimin laughed. "Lemme see it." He tried it on a couple fingers, before it fit on his pinky. "Mmm...pretty."

"You've got small hands." Jungkook took Jimin's hand, kissing the back of it. "Keep it if you like it."

"I- well, I don't want it to go to waste." He laughed, flustered.

"It's pretty, isn't it? I picked it cause it wasn't as boring as the other ones, though, it still isn't an ideal ring." Jungkook shrugged as he ate.

He really...really loved this. He loved being around Jimin. He always wanted to be there with him, or at the very least, be there for him.

"Really though, I mean it Jungkook. I'm sure Taehyung wouldn't mind you staying over for the month. You could get to know each other better."

"I couldn't ask you to drive to Seoul again, you've been driving for hours." Jungkook shook his head.

"Then another day. But soon. I want you out of that house as much as you do." Jimin huffed. "I can't stand the force, it gives me bad vibes."

"Well same here." Jungkook laughed. He kind of liked being able to be open about things...no more lying. No more hiding. "Jimin...d...are we dating now? Is that official?" He looked at him shyly.

"Absolutely. You were mine before you even knew it." Jimin smiled at him. "I'm taking this as a physical confirmation too." Jimin demonstrated the ring. "I'm totally going to show this off every chance I get."

Jungkook laughed. "Good. Please, please tell people I'm yours. I am, I really am, I promise I'll be loyal."

"I don't have a single fear Jungkook." Jimin smiled at him. "Okay? But if you ever have a fear, tell me and I'll clear your mind. I...this is all new for you, isn't it?"

"Yeah. Yeah, this is- I haven't been in a real relationship before." Jungkook sighed. "So I'm sorry I'm advance."

"We'll figure it out together." Jimin spoke softly. "Okay?"

"You'll really...wait for me?"

"We can both be patient. We can take a lot of time." Jimin reassured him. "Okay?"

"Okay." Jungkook smiled at him. "I don't know how I ever got you to like me."

"You're really lovely when you aren't hiding yourself." Jimin took his hand, playing with it a little shyly. "I loved hearing you laugh for the first time...and I found your jokes and our talks endearing. I just kept...I kept being interested and wanting to learn more and I wanted to be around you and know you."

Jungkook blushed a little. "I...I also feel the same..."

"I love being able to say things to you. It feels amazing to not have to be careful." He kissed Jungkook's hand. "And I'm happy. I'm really happy."

Jungkook could've cried from happiness. "...about your offer hyung..."

____

Jungkook packed his bags. He didn't have much. He had his money, his small amount of personal possessions, and his clothes. He packed one bag of clothes and one bag of possessions, Jimin helping him and putting them in his car.

"You gunna be alright doing it alone?" Jimin hugged himself. "I'm scared for you."

"I'll be alright. I don't want you there." Jungkook brushed Jimin's hair out of his face.

"But!-"

"No, I need you here. Okay?"

"Okay." Jimin looked visibly upset. "I-"

"I don't want them to possibly hurt you." Jungkook kissed his forehead. "I'll be ready to leave right after."

"I'll...okay." Jimin sighed. "Fine."

"Thank you." Jungkook smiled and went back to his house, sitting at the table to wait for his parents to get home.

He was leaving. He was going to get a new life. He was going to make it. He was going to.

He waited patiently, knowing that Jimin was waiting for him and his parents were on their way.

He wanted to leave, he had to leave, he was loosing his mind, he had to leave.

The door unlocked and Jungkook took a big breath. He watched them come inside. "Oh good. You ready for dinner Jungkook?"

"Mother...father..." Jungkook was unsure how to start this. "I'm leaving." He looked at them.

"What do you mean sweetie?" His mother smiled at him. "Going out tonight? Just come back by midnight."

"No. No, I'm leaving and I'm not coming back. Yeji and I broke it off, we're not getting married and we're not engaged. And I'm not going back to your work and I'm not letting you control my life anymore!" Jungkook stood up, his chest tight and his heart beating quickly.

"Jungkook, you're being ridiculous." His father looked a little upset. "We have work tomorrow morning."

"And you can't just cut off the engagement like that, we've already talked to Yeji's parents about arranging-"

"I'm not going to be here tomorrow, and I'm not marrying a girl." Jungkook glared a little. "I'm sick of being someone you want me to be."

"Careful Jungkook." His mother gave a serious tone.

"No! No, I won't! I've been careful my whole life and I'm miserable! So no. I'm leaving and I'm not coming back. So leave me alone, and leaving Yeji the fuck alone." Jungkook started walking to the door.

"Jungkook if you walk out that door that's it." His father sounded upset.

"It's not like you can be more disappointed. I'm leaving." Jungkook opened the door, looking back at them. "And I'm never coming back." He left, slamming the door behind him as he made his way to Jimin's house.

The door opened immediately for him, Jimin pulling him inside. He hugged him instantly. "Are you okay? Did it all go well?"

"I...yeah. Yeah, it went well. But I'm definitely disowned."

"Well...you can always come here. You're welcome here Jungkook." Jimin's mother spoke softly. "Though I'm not sure how often you'd want to visit since were neighbors."

"Thank you." Jungkook rubbed Jimin's back as he looked over his shoulder to talk to his mom. "It's appreciated nonetheless."

"And just because they won't provide for you doesn't mean we won't." Jimin's father chimed in. "Anything you need, okay kid?"

"Thank you." Jungkook smiled wide. "You're more than I could ask for. All of you. Everything here is- is amazing."

"Well, you're a part of the family now." His mother smiled. "So consider yourself a part of it."

"Amazing." Jungkook let go of Jimin.

"Ready to head back to Seoul?" Jimin looked up at him with a smile.

"Yeah. Let's get away."

Maybe one day Jungkook would be able to love Busan the way that Jimin did, but at the moment...he needed to get away.

____

He spent the next month living in Taehyung's apartment, the two of them getting to know each other a little better. They played a good amount of video games, while the other half of the time Jungkook wondered if he should look for a job.

He wasn't really good at much so it was hard to find a job he wouldn't hate. He wondered what he could do.

But...at least he was out of his house. He helped Taehyung pack up his apartment, then the two of them helped Hoseok, Jin, Namjoon, and Yoongi.

The new house was huge. But when there's six rich kids, fuck, you could get anything. Jungkook....was no longer a rich kid, though he was still privileged like one.

It was so amazing to live with Jimin and the others, sharing a living room and kitchen with them, but having their own apartment attached.

It was perfect. He loved it.

He was still getting used to some things though, like loud noises and yelling, Jimin reassuring him that it wasn't harmful and everyone was having fun, taking him to their room when needed, but he was getting the hang of it. He immediately had a breakdown after breaking a plate once, Jimin assuring him nothing bad was going to happen.

He was still getting the hang of things.

Being unused to normal human interactions was also rough, but he was getting it. He was getting it.

"We're gunna head out Jimin! Jungkook already said he didn't wanna go, but that makes sense." Jungkook could hear Namjoon faintly from the other room. "He said he's still uncomfortable at my parents house, so I'm not forcing him."

"Ah, alright. Then we'll relax here, go have fun!" Jimin shoved them out the door, before finding Jungkook in their room. "Hey."

"Hi." Jungkook laid in bed, blankets to his chin as he played a game on their tv. "Heard them leave."

"It still makes you anxious?" Jimin climbed into bed with him.

"Yeah...I just, well, I've never been given the option to not go somewhere so...it's relieving."

"Mmm." Jimin cuddled up to him, head on his chest. "I hope one day you'll be able to meet them. They're lovely, really."

"Meeting parents is hard." Jungkook sighed a little. "I just need more time, I'll get there."

"Hey, don't stress it." Jimin patted his chest. "There's no need to force yourself to suddenly be okay with things."

"You guys are really good about that, but I am sorry about making you all cautious."

"Don't be! It's good that everyone is becoming more conscious of each other. If anything, we've benefited. Now we can tell when someone is upset before any harsh words are said, or we can switch moods when we've realized one of us has hit a nerve. We've only gotten kinder."

"I'm glad some good has come out of it all." Jungkook smiled, stealing a glance at Jimin. "Thinking about food at all?"

"Mmmm...thinking about you actually." Jimin slid a hand up Jungkook's sweater.

"O-oh I see." Jungkook blushed a little as Jimin's small hand slowly moved over his skin, grazing it softly. He shivered. "Hyung..."

"Hm? We're alone for the night, no?" Jimin continued, drawing circles on Jungkook's chest. "If you wanna."

"Lemme finish my game first." Jungkook tilted his head a little, but kept his eyes on the tv.

"Mm." Jimin didn't seem to take that as an option, moving up a little and kissing at the edge of Jungkook's lips. "But what about right now?"

"Lemme- lemme finish." Jungkook titled his head more, expecting a kiss, but didn't spare Jimin a glance.

"But I don't wanna." Jimin pulled Jungkook's sweater up, kissing at his jaw, before biting his cheek softly.

"Hyung." Jungkook whispered. "Lemme-"

"Don't wanna wait." He slowly moved on top of Jungkook, getting under his arms. He attacked his neck.

"Ah- hyung-" Jungkook looked over his head, feeling Jimin's hands on his chest and the love bites he was leaving. "You're ridiculous, just let me finish my game."

"No." Jimin bit his neck, gnawing on it softly. "Pay attention to me."

"Ahhh, hyung please-"

Jimin kissed his lips, fully being in his way. Jungkook gave up, setting down his controller to hold Jimin. He put his hands on his waist cautiously, letting Jimin do what he wanted.

"Mk hyung, you've got my attention now." Jungkook smiled at him.

"Take your clothes off."

"Can't with you on me."

"Fair point."

Jimin got off, taking Jungkook's controller and turning off the tv, before taking off his shirt. Jungkook stared at him until Jimin gave him a knowing smile.

He blushed. "I can't help it, sorry. You're just really beautiful." Jungkook sat up and took his sweater off, shimmying out of his sweats.

"I don't mind if you're lookin. I like when you look at me." Jimin got undressed the rest of the way, Jungkook still wondering how he was so confident. He was so beautiful. Jimin came back to the bed, sitting on top of Jungkook again, making him blush at the contact. "Look at me more."

"You're silly." Jungkook smiled at him. "I'm already looking at you most of the time."

"Even more. I need the attention."

"Well, me too." Jungkook laughed a little. "I need the attention too." He pulled Jimin closer, kissing him graciously.

That didn't seem to be enough for Jimin. "Jungkook."

"Hm? Do you- what do you want?" He smiled, asking honestly.

"I want your clothes off." Jimin glared a little. "How could you keep them on?"

"I got mostly undressed!" Jungkook blushed. "I...I'm still nervous..."

"How?" Jimin shook his head, his hands roaming Jungkook's chest. "You're so handsome!" Jimin huffed and kissed him harder. "You shouldn't feel insecure about a thing."

"W-well you're just very pretty and I-" Jungkook felt embarrassed...Jimin's ass felt so nice on his lap. "I'm not."

Jimin laughed. "You're oblivious." He shook his head with a sigh. "You're too handsome for your own good. Don't you know? Don't you know how handsome you are?" Jimin sighed and shook his head. "Doesn't matter, cause you're handsome to me."

"Pshhhhh, come on." Jungkook blushed a little more. Jimin was moving a lot to get comfortable, which was making him embarrassed and making his head think.

"What do you wanna try?"

"Huh?"

"You're red as a beet, what're you thinking about?"

"Ahh, stop noticing." Jungkook only blushed more, looking away. "You always notice."

"Of course I do! I've gotten used to understanding you. I always wanted to know you best." Jimin smiled knowingly. "So...what's on your mind puppy?"

"Nothing...in particular." Jungkook shut his eyes, cringing at his inability to lie.

Jimin laughed. "Oh Jungkookie, please." Jimin grinned down at him, grinding down at the same time. "Tell me what's on your mind."

"Ahh, please, let me live. I wanna do whatever you wanna do."

"And I want you to tell me what you're thinking of. It must be something. You want to touch?" Jimin smiled at him, watching him shake his head. "You want more? Gosh, I just won't know if you don't say anything."

Jungkook sighed heavily. "I can't even say it so I- I shouldn't be able to do it."

"Oh but please, we've got the time to spare." Jimin moved against him again, Jungkook jolting a little.

"P-please hyung, let me suffer in silence."

"Tell me puppy." Jimin grabbed Jungkook's chin softly, shaking his head back and forth a little. "Come on, use your words." He grinned, Jungkook embarrassed and turned on at Jimin's ability to be so comfortable.

"Jimin..." Jungkook blushed, opening his eyes. "Please..."

"Tell me how much you want me."

"I- I really do, I mean it. You always...feel really good. And I...like when you sound pleased. B-but I like when you direct me and I like when you...compliment me..." Jungkook smiled, smitten by Jimin. "I wanna be inside you."

"Lovely. Now...tell me what you want to do?" Jimin whispered, kissing him ever so softly.

"I want...to prep you...and make you feel good." Jungkook sighed in defeat. Jimin would always get what he wanted.

"...is that all?" Jimin prodded him on.

Fuck he knew him too well.

"Jimin..."

"You...want to prep me? Is that all?" He played with Jungkook's hair, teasing him.

"Jimin-"

"Be a good boy and tell me."

"Fuck, fine, I wanna eat your ass, goddamn it." Jungkook sighed from embarrassment. "So please just shut me up and ignore that, I wanna do whatever you wanna do."

Jimin laughed. "No, no! Don't worry, I wanna do what you want to do."

"Well don't laugh at me!"

Jimin tried to hide his laughter. "S-sorry I just- let's do it."

"Hyung-"

"Please." Jimin let go of his face. "You're a big boy, you can handle it." He smiled as Jungkook sighed in embarrassment.

"You're...are you sure?" Jungkook gave a nervous look.

"Jungkook, if it feels good...then I want it." Jimin smiled, easing him. "Okay?"

"O-okay...I just want...you to...feel good..." Jungkook felt a little shame but did mean it. He did want Jimin to feel good.

"Perfect." Jimin hummed in approval. "That wasn't too hard to say, was it?"

"A- a little." Jungkook rubbed Jimin's back. "But- but I want to make you feel good."

"Then by all means, let me flip over." Jimin kissed him one more time before turning around on Jungkook's lap. Jungkook held his waist, moving them a little bit to lay down, before pulling Jimin's ass closer to him. "Ahh, be nice."

"Mmm...but you're just too lovely." Jungkook let Jimin adjust himself, before he pulled him closer.

"Ah!" Jimin adjusted again, sighing a little bit. "You're still clothed."

"Mmm...yeah." Jungkook rubbed Jimin's ass before he carefully tongued at his hole. "You wanna do anything about it?"

"Ha...you're sly."

"Learning from you." Jungkook hummed happily as he continued, just carefully pressing against Jimin's hole, holding his ass with his hands. Fuck it was amazing.

"Brat." Jimin pressed back against him a little before he kissed Jungkook's hard on.

"Ah-" Jungkook jolted a little. "Jimin-"

"No no, keep focusing on me." Jimin pulled Jungkook's boxers down, Jungkook feeling a little embarrassed, but Jimin was just so..pretty.

Jungkook did focus on Jimin, pressing his tongue inside a little. Fuck, Jimin's ass was amazing, beyond what he could even imagine. He'd really tried to be polite to Jimin, tried not to sexualize him, tried not to stare or let his thoughts wander, but Jimin had been insistent on them being open and Jungkook trying new things.

Jimin had been insistent on Jungkook touching him. In any and every way.

Jungkook shivered when Jimin kitten licked his cock, licking over the head. Jimin slowly integrated more into his mouth, little by little, as Jungkook tongued his hole at the same time. 

Jungkook felt so embarrassed, but so good. And- and Jimin always told him that if he felt good then it was worth it. Jimin's mouth was truly too good to be true though, and he could only hope that Jimin felt just as good as he did.

Jungkook pulled out. "Ah- Jimin, if you- if you keep that up I won't b-be able to last long."

Jimin popped off of him, Jungkook shivering again. "Mmm~ me neither. Where'd you learn how to move your tongue like that?" Jimin shakily sat up, Jungkook smiling a little at that. "Fuck, what the hell."

Jungkook laughed a little. "Dunno, just felt around till your muscles tensed. I like how your...muscles tense..." Jungkook felt shy, wiping his mouth a little as Jimin turned around to sit on his lap.

"I'm gunna fucking ride you." Jimin glared at him. "How are you so shy after that?" Jimin laughed a little before holding onto his shoulders. "You're so fucking good at everything but you still get so so embarrassed. It's cute, really." Jimin leaned forward, grabbing their lube and a condom. "I seriously don't get you. Prep me."

"D-dunno I- I think you sound pretty when you feel good so- so I can- can do that for you." Jungkook blushed as Jimin stared at him. He was so pretty but would Jungkook would never get used to it. "I- Jimin-"

"Prep me." Jimin grabbed Jungkook's hand and poured lube on it.

"Okay." Jungkook could be obedient. He started to prep him, starting with one.

"Come on, you can use two."

"A-ah, okay." Jungkook pushed in a second, his cheeks hot.

Jimin hummed in approval, making Jungkook happy. "Good. Not so bad, right? You're good with your hands."

"Ahh, please Jimin..." Jungkook shook his head. "I can't take all of the compliments."

"But you love them! I must give them if you love them. Just how like you love affection."

"But- but you shouldn't have to for me, I- I can't take much."

"I like seeing you become shy but proud. It's so utterly adorable." Jimin hummed, holding onto Jungkook's shoulders as he adjusted. "Mmm~ right there, that's nice."

"Mm." Jungkook curled his fingers a little more, Jimin shuddering.

"Oh."

"You mean there?"

"Mmmm...yeah." Jimin blushed. "Right there."

"Mk." Jungkook continued, Jimin giving small pants and exclamations. "Tell me when."

"You can add another." Jimin nodded, closing his eyes. "Haa, fuck, why- you- you are seriously gunna kill me."

"Hm?"

"I'm ready, lemme- lemme-"

"Mk, mk." Jungkook watched Jimin the entire time to make sure he was doing it right, as he pulled his fingers out. "You sure?"

"I don't understand you. I'm going to make you feel as good as you make me feel." Jimin opened the package and put the condom on Jungkook, lubing him up before he slowly started to settle on him. "You have no idea."

"J-Jimin you- you don't have to-" Jungkook held his waist tightly, his blush unable to go away.

"Let me. I- ah- I want to. I want you to feel good, fuck, you never- you never put yourself first." Jimin slowly adjusted. "So I wanna put you first."

"Hyung-"

"Ah- don't." Jimin glared a little. "Let me take care of you."

"This is more than-"

"No. It's for both of us, but...it's for you." Jimin kissed Jungkook as he lowered himself more.

Jungkook gave in quickly, rubbing Jimin's thighs and hips as they kissed. He twitched as Jimin bottomed out. "Ah-"

Jimin immediately took the opportunity to explore Jungkook's mouth, not giving Jungkook a second to breathe. It was almost like he knew exactly how to overwhelm him with stimulation, yet...Jungkook never got enough. He needed affection. He lived on it, and fuck...Jimin was way too eager to give him everything.

Though, Jungkook wasn't complaining too much.

"Ah- fuck, fuck Jimin, please." Jungkook pulled away, breathing hard. "Please, I'm already- I'm already ready, so please, I..." Jungkook sighed. "I want you."

"Ah, you're so cute." Jimin gave him one more kiss before starting to move. "Anything for you, since you've been such a good boy."

"Mmm~" Jungkook hated how much he loved that. "You're beautiful."

Jimin smiled, holding Jungkook's shoulders for support. "Keep touching me sweetheart, you know I like it and I know you like it too."

Jungkook blushed, but nodded. "M-mk." He didn't know how Jimin was so confident but he did feel good about it. And Jimin was gorgeous, so maybe it did make sense that he was confident. It would take Jungkook some time. Jungkook squeezed Jimin's thighs, feeling them tense a tiny bit, before running his hands up his back.

"T-there, that's not so hard, no? You're used to that."

"I'm still getting used to you." Jungkook couldn't stop his blush from growing, reaching his chest now. "You're just too- too pretty and I get- I get nervous. What if I do something you don't like?"

"Then we talk about it and do what you know I like." Jimin smiled at him. "And so far, I've liked everything." He sped up a tiny bit, biting his lip as he kept smiling.

"Mm!~ yeah, yeah okay." Jungkook shut his mouth to not moan out loud. "I- Jimin you feel so good."

"Then show me." Jimin gave a shameless moan. "Haa~ don't you- don't you know how much I love your voice?"

Jungkook nodded, closing his eyes. "I- I know, but- but I- I-"

"Do I have to tell you every time?" Jimin stroked Jungkook's hair out of his face. "Jungkook, I love you."

"Oh god." Jungkook covered his face with his hand. "Jimin, I- you're too much."

"Then...let me hear it." Jimin held Jungkook's cheeks, leaning down a little to kiss him. "Mk?" He pried Jungkook's hand away. "Okay?

Jungkook was utterly red, staring up at Jimin. "Okay...you know I- I love you too, right?"

"Of course!" Jimin giggled, kissing him. "You need love...and I'm here to give it."

"Y-you're perfect, you know that?" Jungkook put his hand back on Jimin's waist. "You're truly perfect."

Jimin laughed. "Cute." He pulled him closer to kiss him, moving a little more roughly.

Jungkook moaned quietly, still embarrassed and slightly cautious. "Ah, Jimin- I- I wanna- let me-" Jungkook fully sat up, Jimin putting his hand on Jungkook's chest.

"This is for you, let me do the work." Jimin bottomed out again, smiling once Jungkook shivered.

"Hyung-"

"No. Let me." Jimin grabbed the back of Jungkook's neck, kissing him. "You do the work every time, let me do it this time."

"But- but you sound pretty when I-"

"Jungkook." Jimin kissed him again. "You sound pretty too. And I like how you sound when you're satisfied."

"F-fuck." Jungkook blushed, looking away.

"Ah, puppy don't look away."

Jungkook swore his ears were red. "But- but-"

"No buts. You're beautiful, you're handsome, and I love you." Jimin hummed. "Look at me."

"Jimin-"

"No no, let me get a good look at you." Jimin grabbed Jungkook's chin, turning his head. "See? You're pretty, and I want to hear it all."

"I...you're too patient with me." Jungkook sighed, smiling full of love. "Thank you Jimin. I don't deserve-"

"I will continue to cut you off when you protest. Jungkook, you deserve everything and I'm gunna give it to you. Okay? Does that sound alright sweetheart?"

Jungkook nodded, smiling but still embarrassed. "That sounds alright."

He loved him so much. He loved how careful and conscious he was of him, he loved being known, he loved being loved. Jimin had always been good to him, especially in their intimate moments.

"Good." Jimin started to move again, still looking simply...happy.

Jungkook couldn't help but smile back at him. He loved how being with Jimin was so different from the expectations he had of being in a real relationship. This was all new. But god fucking damn it nothing was better than Jimin.

Jungkook jolted again as Jimin continued. "Do you want me to go slow or faster?"

"O-oh, um...whatever you want?"

"Jungkook...what would you like?"

"Mmm..." Jungkook blushed. "I...guess...f-faster."

"Okay puppy."

Jungkook wanted to hide, feeling overwhelmed but good as Jimin sped up, holding onto Jungkook's shoulder again to support him. God he wouldn't get over how beautiful he was. Jimin was beyond beautiful.

"Fuck- ah- Jimin-" Jungkook tighened his grip on Jimin's hips.

"Louder if you're feeling generous." Jimin hummed happily, giving Jungkook a look that made him shiver.

Jungkook could've whimpered if he wasn't so embarrassed, but he nodded. "O-okay."

He could've mistaken Jimin for heaven at this point. Jimin gave soft whines and moans as he moved. Jungkook wanted to make him moan louder. He always thought he sounded pretty. Maybe...maybe he could...

"Ahhh, hey, don't give me that look-"

"But you sound so pretty." Jungkook smiled, laughing a little at being known. "Wouldn't it be nice?"

"L-let me- let me do the work tonight-"

"Oh but I love how you look u-under me, you're so pretty."

"Let me-"

"You do so much for me." Jungkook rubbed Jimin's thighs quickly before holding his waist again. "I like doing what I can."

"Jungkook-"

"Anddd up you go!" Jungkook manhandled him, picking Jimin up enough for him to put him on his back, hovering above him now.

"Jungkook!"

"Lovely." Jungkook smiled at him, looking down at his mixture of surprise, slight anger, but mostly love. His cheeks were red. "I'll never get over how beautiful you look."

"Sh-shut up."

"Shy now?" Jungkook peppered him in kisses before he started to move, his kisses ending on his neck. "But you sound so good..."

Jimin ran his hand up Jungkook's back, holding onto him. "I- Jungkook-"

"Mmm." Jungkook simply hummed as he kissed Jimin's neck, moving in and out in an attempt to hear Jimin be louder. He knew a couple spots that might make him, so he found a sensitive spot on his neck and positioned himself to hit Jimin's prostate.

"Ah! Jungkook!" Jimin moaned, digging his nails into Jungkook's skin a little. "J-jesus fucking christ what- what-" Jungkook continued, knowing just how Jimin would sound. He would never get used to it. How beautiful he sounded. "Jungkook!-"

"Mmm~ no, I like when you're overwhelmed. Y-you always do so much for me, the least I can do is- is make you feel good." Jungkook mumbled into Jimin's shoulder, biting softly.

"J-Jungkook this was- was supposed to be less work for- for you!" Jimin shuddered as Jungkook continued.

"You do so much for me." Jungkook moved Jimin's legs around his waist. "I wanna do more for you."

"Y-you do enough!" Jimin blushed, giving Jungkook more room on his neck. "Fuck, goddamn it."

Jungkook smiled happily, loving the sweet sounds coming out of Jimin's mouth. "You sound so pretty angel..."

"B-but!-"

"No, no, I'm not...I'm not good at...being given things."

"Love, I give to you every day."

"And I still...feel like giving back." Jungkook kissed Jimin's cheek, before hearing him giggle.

"Good! That's how it should be."

"Then let me give?"

"Okay puppy."

Jungkook smiled in embarrassment, loving being called pet names. He continued to move, in and out, loving Jimin's voice. "Fuck Jimin, you're lovely." He blushed a little, but couldn't stop smiling, loving how Jimin looked under him.

His cheeks were red, his hair messy, Jungkook loving how beautiful he looked.

"God- Jungkook-"

"Mm~" Jungkook lovingly kissed him, carefully positioning himself to hit Jimin's prostate again.

"Ah! Oh- oh god Jungkook, fuck!" Jimin full body shuddered, his nails scratching Jungkook's back a little. "Jesus fuck."

"Good?"

"Mmm~ do it again." Jimin panted a little, but he looked happy.

"You sure?" Jungkook smiled at him.

"Yes! Yes, please."

"Mk." Jungkook smiled a little more as he continued to hit Jimin's prostate, loving how loud he was becoming. "You really sound amazing."

"Ah- Jungkook- J- fuck- haa~" Jimin's eyes were blown out, Jungkook loving this. He loved it every time. He just loved when Jimin was past shame, past caring, past embarrassment.

Jungkook wanted to feel that one day. But for now, he would soak in every sound Jimin made and make sure he was satisfied. Anything for him.

"Good?"

"Good! Fuck-" Jimin arched his back a little, pulling Jungkook closer. "I- I'm not gunna last much longer- ahh- with you hittin- fuck-"

"Mmm~ okay angel." Jungkook continued, kissing Jimin once he knew he was close. He let Jimin take control of it, both desperate to finish and somehow prove to the other that they were happy. God Jimin was simply perfect.

They came together, Jungkook panting as he went to kiss at the other side of Jimin's neck, Jimin holding him close.

"Fucking christ." Jimin huffed, kissing at Jungkook's neck. "You're- you- you gotta let me take care of you sweetheart."

"I like...taking care of you. All your needs." Jungkook kissed in a love bite.

"But what about yours? Jesus fuck." Jimin tried to catch his breath, Jungkook able to feel him shaking a little.

"You good?"

"You fucking- you're too good for being new to this, I swear..." Jimin laughed. "I'm literally shaking."

"You're okay though?"

"Mhm." Jimin giggled. "Yeah. But next time let me take care of you, okay? You deserve to relax."

"But I love when you get to relax. I like when I do the work."

"You're a workaholic." Jimin giggled a little tiredly. "Don't you think?"

"No no, I think I work just enough." Jungkook kept kissing his neck. "You're just too precious to me, I want to show you that."

"Well...sometimes I want to show you too."

"Then stop being so pretty under me, gosh, I just can't help myself." Jungkook teased him, Jimin rubbing his back.

"Never."

"Exactly!" Jungkook smothered him in kisses.

____

Jungkook finally felt a part of something. A family of his own. Jimin laid on his lap as he and Taehyung played games on the living room tv. Jin and Yoongi were cooking something that smelled amazing, as Namjoon and Hoseok talked about something on the other couch.

He loved it. He could've never imagined that just one year could change everything he once knew. A new home, new friends, different parent figures, Jimin...

Jungkook smiled as he noticed them all.

He loved being loved.

Ahhh, thank you to @kkabtsarmy for this once again! I really loved writing this, and I hope that you enjoyed it. Seriously, if you ever want to write your own version, I implore you to do so, as I know now that you have to start somewhere. Thank you for sharing your story idea, and thank you for reading! Remember to eat well, drink water, and take care of yourself lovelies. Also...

Happy pride month everyone!! 🏳️‍🌈 Love is love! ^-^

Thank you for reading! 💜