A note before the story! Thank you all so much for 200K reads!!!! This is my thank you! It's long. Very, very long, so I hope you all like not sleeping or taking a couple days to read a story 🤡
Stay inside and drink water!

In which Omega Jimin runs from his pack to find help, and the pack leaders "cold hearted" Alpha son Jungkook, falls pathetically in love with the fearless omega.

60,700 words.

This will be set in a pack world, so they'll be able to shift into actual wolves, have less modern houses and such, and have certain traditions. If you aren't used to aob (alpha/omega/beta) worlds, hopefully this isn't too confusing! This is my own story, so credit to me lmao. There will also be a combination of present and past elements aka technology, clothes, and the like. Hopefully y'all like it!

                                 _______

Jungkook dressed his best. He wore his finest silk, his nicest fur coat, and his nicest cologne to show off his position as the wolf packs' leaders son. Such a fucking title. Jungkook didn't care much about it, except for the fact that one day he'd be the leader. He had no doubt he'd be strong enough...but he had doubts about his ability to keep everyone's trust.

So of course, naturally, his parents were setting him up on dates to find a potential companion. Omega after omega after omega. Jungkook was numb to the attempts now.

"Jungkook, this is Park Jihyo, her family works with many of the clothes we offer. She knows nearly everyone here." His father gave him the important details, leaning on the doorway frame. "Try your best, okay?"

"These meetings are a waste of food. The food we eat could be used for other houses." Jungkook shook his head, fixing his hair. "That's all I've got to say."

"Jungkook. You need to find a partner before you become the pack leader."

"You've got plenty more years dad. I don't need to get married yet." Jungkook sighed. "Besides, I think I've gone on enough dates. Every omega girl knows I've turned them down. The choices are getting thin, aren't they?" Jungkook was hopeful that his suffering would end.

"Then I'll move on to boys." His dad sighed. "I just need to know that you'll be left in good hands. I need to see it." His father looked down. "I'm sorry that you're not finding the right person. But we do have a big pack, so I'm sure there's someone that's right for you."

Jungkook looked at his mirror, changing his earrings. "Maybe there isn't."

With that, he walked past his father to their dinning room, ready to wait for his date to arrive. Someone good with clothes...maybe she could teach him a thing or two, he'd always loved trying new things. Or maybe he could start sewing his own things.

Jungkook heard the door open from across the house, his ears used to identifying each creak and groan. He had a much larger house than the other cabins, just to prove that this was the pack leaders house, but Jungkook didn't quite like it. One day it would be his, but...it was just a little too empty.

A nice looking women entered the room, and Jungkook didn't bother standing up. He knew he'd deny her anyways. He put his hand out, to indicate that she should sit across from him, so she did. Their food was set on the table, and then everyone else left to give them time to talk.

Jungkook was used to this by now. "I'm sorry for wasting your time and night, but hopefully the food is good enough to make up for it. Please, take it to your family as well." Jungkook gave her a small, apologetic smile.

She nodded. "It's not a problem. I don't really want this either, but I will take the food to my family, thank you."

"Oh? You don't?" Jungkook felt relief at those words. "Thank you for understanding."

She laughed a little. "It's not a problem at all. I assumed you wouldn't be interested, but anything the pack leader requests is you know...an order."

"He'll stop one day."

"Well, you're doing a good job at making him stressed." She ate a little on her plate. "He was asking my mother for help. How will my boy ever get a wife if he keeps this rebellious act up?" She impersonated his voice, making Jungkook laugh.

"Rebellious? How rude...simply saying no to him isn't working. And I'm not going to hurt anyone's feelings in attempting to keep him at bay." Jungkook shook his head. "Besides...I'm young. I'm assuming you're the same age as me?" Jungkook looked at her.

Jihyo nodded. "I am. He could throw a lot more people at you. Though...you know, you're right, the usage of food is a little..."

"It's a little much, isn't it?" Jungkook looked over the table. "This could go to so many families."

"Well, mine will be grateful to get so much." Jihyo smiled at him. "Thank you for being gracious."

"Oh it's nothing. Tell me...how are things? Are we doing okay? Dad takes everything by numbers, but how are people doing?"

Jihyo seemed taken aback by this question. "Oh. Um...let me try to recall." She hummed a little, then nodded. "Mostly good. Some come in with older clothes, so I think we're low on materials. Hopefully this is a much better winter for the hunting season. You're part of that, aren't you?"

"Yes, I am. Thank you." Jungkook nodded. If he could get at least a couple larger animals this next hunting season, then they'd be good. Last season wasn't as bountiful as they'd hoped for, and with the amount of people in their pack, they needed to always have enough of everything.

Which is why the amount of food on his table concerned Jungkook. "Are you calculating?"

"Ah, sorry, yes."

"Everyone else seemed afraid of you. Why is that?" Jihyo questioned him, making Jungkook laugh a little.

"Well...I hang out with Taehyung...and people think he's intimidating. And I'm shy so...I come off as cold. But that doesn't mean I'm not strong. I've had to throw my weight around a couple times...but those couple of times happened to be with public eyes so...yeah. I'm sure you've heard the stories." Jungkook blushed a little, looking at his untouched plate.

"Ah, yes, of course. Those are true?"

"Sure are..." Jungkook felt embarrassed. He took off his pelt coat, feeling slightly more comfortable. "But I'm surprised I haven't heard about you. Where is your store? I'll try and stop by more."

"Ah, it's in the east side, it's no wonder you don't come by. It's a little bit of a walk since you're in the west wing of the area."

"Oh fuck, how'd you get here?"

"I walked." Jihyo smiled a little at his cursing.

"Then let me walk you back, it's dark now." Jungkook looked out the window. He groaned, knowing his father had definitely put him up to this. "Let's- mmm, before it gets too late, we can pack your food and I'll walk you home. If you don't mind cutting this, lovely, progressive date short?" Jungkook had already stood up, gathering food and grouping them together.

"Why not. I'd rather get home, to tell the truth." She shrugged.

"And I'd rather be in bed, perfect." Jungkook gathered a basket, wrapping food in towles and putting them in. He grabbed his coat, carried the basket, and led her out the door.

It was snowing lightly, winter starting to settle in, and Jungkook knew he was going to have to prepare for their big hunt.

"Thank you for walking me back, you didn't have to."

"We're a safe pack, but still. It's common courtesy."

"You didn't greet me at the door."

"I- okay you've got me there." Jungkook cracked a smile.

The two were suddenly interrupted by a running girl. She was panicked, Jungkook could smell it.

"Hey! What's wrong?" Jungkook sounded way more mean than he intended, but he'd gotten her attention.

She jumped, and Jungkook handed Jihyo the basket. "T-th-there's trouble at the east- east boundaries- I-" Jungkook didn't let her finish as he ran off, taking the safety of the pack seriously.

He realized he left Jihyo, but he couldn't care about that now, instead, focusing on getting to the east border. He felt like...he needed to get there quickly, the girl who was running was scared.

When he reached the area, he heard distant yelling and screaming. His ears picked up on the area, then ran there, his adrenaline spiking. When he reached the area, he saw the situation.

There was an omega on the ground, fighting off four alphas, all from a different pack. Jungkook was furious seeing this, running right up to them and yelling. "Hey! Get your hands off of him!" Jungkook was livid. He grabbed the closest alphas collar and threw him aside, the four of them now focusing on Jungkook.

"Hey, leave us alone. We've got to bring this fucking runaway back." The alpha in charge grabbed the omegas wrist, but the omega kept fighting.

"No! No please, let me go." He tried to get his wrist free, and Jungkook could see many problems now. "Help me, please!" The omega looked at him, and Jungkook nodded.

He could see that the omegas shirt was ripped to pieces, revealing bruises, cuts, scratches, bite marks, and other marks. Something was incredibly wrong.

Jungkook quickly thought of something. "You're on our territory. If he wishes to be a part of our pack, he can." Jungkook stared at the omega on the ground, his wrist in the air, being held up by the alphas hand. He could see how rough he was holding it. "Do you wish to be a part of our pack?"

"Yes!" He desperately called out, crying. "Yes I do, please- please help me!" He couldn't stop crying then, shaking and trembling. Jungkook could tell his voice was hoarse, rough, almost like he hadn't drank water for days.

"Ah ah, not so fast. That's not how that works." The alpha holding the omegas wrist gripped him tighter, taking a step back.

"It is, actually." Jungkook took a step forward, his eyes glaring daggers. He could tell the four alphas were slightly scared, but wouldn't show it.

"Only the pack leader can decide that." The main alpha was glaring back now, looking over Jungkook.

Jungkook took another step closer, carefully stepping around the omega, and got up in the alphas face. "I'm the pack leaders son." Jungkook growled. "So let him go."

"Leave us alone little boy." A secondary alpha spoke up, sneering. "We're barely on your territory. Let us go with him and we won't bother you again."

"Let. Him. Go." Jungkook was determined. The omega was going to be safe.

Safe. Care for him.

Jungkook's wolf spoke to him, making him confused for half a second before getting back to it. "He's now in our pack. He said so himself. Right?" Jungkook asked the omega again.

He nodded vigorously, crying out as the alpha tugged on his wrist.

Jungkook took a deep breath, calming himself and focusing on what he was seeing. "Then that's that. Give him to me." Jungkook was serious, keeping calm, and giving off strong aromas. He could tell the four alphas were deciding whether or not to fight this or not. "My fathers on his way now. And I'm certain you'd rather deal with me, than him."

"Just fucking leave him." One of the others spoke quietly to the leader of the four. "We don't need him."

The alpha in charge snarled. "He ran from me. Come on kid, let me take him back."

"No no, he's in our pack now." Jungkook took the final step forward, grabbing the alphas wrist and ripping it away, his grip on the omega loosening, and the omega scurrying away and behind Jungkook. He didn't get too far though, before simply collapsing, crying onto the snow.

Jungkook took one more controlled breath, then let it out. "Go. Now. And I'll let you go free of any punishment. But take one step closer and I'll make sure it's the last step you take." Jungkook glared wildly at the four of them, then went over to the omega.

He was shivering, his shirt tattered and torn, practically useless. Jungkook deemed it useless. It was cold, and the omega was shivering violently. The marks that littered his body made Jungkook feel beyond upset.

Mine.

Jungkook's wolf was speaking. He shook it off, kneeling to the omega. He was shivering, shaking, crying, and curled up. "Can you move? Stand at all?"

He looked up at Jungkook, pushing up on his hand to try and get up, but slipped and fell into the snow again, crying harder as he shook his head.

"That's alright." Jungkook reassured him. He took off his fur pelt coat, covering the omega with it, then took his shirt off. "Get that tattered thing off, wear this instead. You'll feel covered and warm." Jungkook spoke calmly, and softly.

Comfort. Bring him warmth. Mine.

His wolf kept talking, Jungkook powering through to ignore it. He watched the omega struggle to do much, so he helped him take the ripped shirt off, and put Jungkook's on. Then he watched him put the coat over himself. "T...thank..." his voice was shot, definitely from all the previous yelling and screaming. "Behind!-" he coughed, and Jungkook's ears picked up on the sound of snow crunching.

He turned around to the four alphas. They hadn't left at all.

"Now look kid...not to say I'm disappointed, but you said your father was on his way. If you aren't actually the pack leaders son, then he's still mine."

"Oh but I am." Jungkook stood up, standing in front of the omega protectively...with a new feeling of possessiveness. "One more step and you're done." Jungkook shook his head with a snarl. The mistreatment on his omega was absolutely unforgivable.

He took another step, cockily. "Oh yeah? I don't believe you're his son. Now give him back. I'd hate for him to think your lovely gift is forever."

Jungkook shifted quickly into his wolf form, a large, fully black wolf, and bared his teeth. He watched the four alphas eyes widen, and take surprised steps back. They'd definitely seen his mark now, the white tear shaped mark under his eye, the mark his father had, his fathers father had, and every great grandfather before him.

They had all the proof they needed.

"Shit." The four started to run, but the alpha closest was too slow. Jungkook snapped his jaws onto his neck, the other three shifting to run quicker. He left the leader alpha of the group with his wound, knowing he wouldn't be able to move or run.

Jungkook ran after the other three.

A promise was a promise. And Jungkook liked to keep his promises. These were the last steps they were ever going to take. Of course they should be. They were going to hurt his omega, and Jungkook couldn't have that.

Protect. Keep him safe.

His wolf spoke, and Jungkook embraced it this time, hunting down those three alphas who thought they had a chance at getting away. The direction they were going...made Jungkook think they were a part of the one pack he'd heard of in stories. A hidden one.

He leaped at the slowest of the group, his nails digging in and ripping him just enough to make him slump over, and then the chase was down to two.

Jungkook quickly made it one, though this wolf gave a bit of a fight.

By the time he'd cornered the last one, his jaw was bloody, his teeth were red, and his claws had fur stuck to them. The much smaller wolf was cowering, and Jungkook was furious.

He could feel the smaller wolfs fear waving off of him.

But a promise was a promise.

And Jungkook kept to his word, no matter what.

He dragged the smaller wolf back by the neck, finding the third littered body on the way and bringing him back too. He slowly collected the second one he killed, then found the first, throwing them all in a pile together.

More help had finally arrived, a couple nurses, Jihyo and the girl who was running, along with his father and a small group of people, probably their hunters.

They all became wary, scared almost, as they saw Jungkook. Of course they would be. He was covered in dried blood and bits of fur, his eyes most likely wild. The crowd of people were quiet, until Jungkook walked up to the nurse who was carrying his omega. He nosed at him.

"H-he's getting taken- taken to the infirmary right- right now if you need to- to talk to him later." The nurse stuttered. Jungkook must've seemed intimidating, with four more bodies under his name. Jungkook nodded, grabbed two dead wolfs by the scruff and throwing the other two on his back, walking by the crowd, and eyeing his father.

They would be good pelts to have, since the pack was running low. And with winter just starting, they needed them. These wolves would not be missed.

He put them in a shop, finally shifting back and grabbing a pair of tattered pants. "You'll...this is enough? What do I need to pay you?" Jungkook caught his breath. This shop delt with the dirty work...making pelts.

"Oh...Jungkook..."

"News will be out tomorrow." Jungkook looked down. "Sorry. How much?"

"Don't...don't worry about it Jungkook. Just...head to the infirmary."

"Hm?" Jungkook looked at himself. "Oh, okay, thank you." He felt quite drained, feeling bad for coming off as rude, but he couldn't be bothered as he headed to the infirmary.

He'd gotten some cuts, and he was definitely bleeding, or well, he had a lot of blood on him, whose it was, he wasn't quite sure. The trudge there was quite rough, as his adrenaline had passed, and the snow was feeling colder. He was shirtless, after all.

But he had to know if his omega was okay.

When he reached the infirmary, there was only a small amount of people there: his father, the nurse who carried his omega, and a couple hunters. When Jungkook entered, everyone's attention was at him.

"Oh fuck, let me help you." The nurse went to help him, but his father put a hand up to stop him.

"Let me ask him a question first. Jungkook...what did you do?"

Jungkook looked at his father, then down. "I protected him, didn't I? He's part of our pack now. I gave him permission and he said yes. You gave me one job, and that's to protect our pack. I did that."

"Jungkook, there's more to this than you're saying." His father was concerned.

"My actions are justified. There won't be a feud over this. It was four alphas using their cruel power to harm m- the omega. He was crying for help, so I helped. He was in our territory so I gave him his in. That's all." Jungkook held his tongue. If his dad knew there was someone in the world that would get him to mate and settle down, he knew he'd do it. "Now, is he alright?" Jungkook looked up, at the nurse, not his father.

"Jungkook-"

"Is he alright?" Jungkook ignored his father. "Please...tell me he'll be okay."

"Get yourself cleaned up first. I...we'll talk in the morning Jungkook, okay? Come home when you can tonight." His father understood he wasn't going to get through to him at the moment, so he left, the hunters giving Jungkook a look before leaving with him.

"Alright, now that they're all gone, come on. I can clean you in his room if you need that." The nurse waited for approval, Jungkook nodding.

"That would be most appreciated. Thank you..." Jungkook sighed and walked with the nurse.

He sat them down in a dim room, lit only by a candle on the omegas bedside table.

Jungkook looked over him immediately. He was wearing different clothes, but his coat was over his bed, most likely to keep him warm. Jungkook smiled. His omega should have his clothes. Anything to keep him warm, after all.

"He's not doing well." The nurse spoke quietly as he cleaned Jungkook's chest.

"Who's seen him?" Jungkook's head was focused on his omega, watching his chest rise and fall peacefully, warm, for the first time in what seemed like forever.

"Me. And you, I assume. You might want to explain things to your father..."

"I don't. Not yet. I don't want anyone else to see him, understood? He's...hurt beyond compare, I don't want him to feel shame from people seeing him and his marks. Does he have a change of clothes?"

"I...Jungkook. Are you okay?" The nurse gave him an odd look. "You've never..."

"Does he?" Jungkook tore his eyes off of his omega and looked at the nurse. He saw the towels full of blood.

"No. He doesn't. We've been running low on some supplies recently...we're hoping this winter will be bountiful." He nodded, knowing Jungkook was the leader of the hunters.

"I'm hoping so too." Jungkook let out a small sigh. "Thank you. Are there any big injuries?"

"No. Just some small cuts. Is it true?...did you really...kill them?" The nurse spoke quietly.

"Yeah. I gave my word. And they crossed the line. I'll do anything to protect our pack. And I'll do anything to protect my- an omega in trouble." Jungkook cursed at himself.

Mine.

His wolf was incredibly happy to say the omega was his, and was incredibly happy with being near him. But fuck, Jungkook didn't even know his name yet. He just knew...he wanted him. To be near him. To never hear him cry again, never hear him scream again, never see those cuts, bruises, scratches, and painful bite marks again. He hated that he was marked by anyone other than himself.

Jungkook shook his head, trying to get out of his own head.

"Oh? Is your wolf tying to him?" The nurse smiled. "No wonder you don't want anyone else to see him." He chuckled. "How fun. The cold hearted Jungkook finally found a match. Think your father should find out?"

Jungkook immediately pleaded. "Please don't tell him. I don't know what's wrong with me. I just- I need to keep him safe. And warm. And those men needed to die. It's what he wanted." Jungkook looked at his omega again.

"Well...I hope you're ready to be extremely careful with your words. Your father might just catch on." He laughed again. "Now look. You sir, need to head home. You can't stay here."

"I want to be here when he wakes up." Jungkook pouted. "Can't I stay here and watch over him?"

"You need rest. The infirmary opens at 6am. Come back then. Besides, you need a shirt and a bath. You still smell like blood. Now go on, get going." The nurse ushered Jungkook out, Jungkook quite surprised.

"Wait-"

"Come back at 6, tata now." The nurse pushed Jungkook out the door and closed it.

"I've never..." Jungkook was utterly surprised. Most people didn't treat him like that. Besides that nurse...now had information. He wouldn't tell anyone, but Seokjin did like to tease him.

He made his way home, bandaged up and no longer bloody. He really didn't want to hear all of the talk the next day.

The town they had was talkative, and tended to make things extreme. They tended to make Jungkook seem so harsh.

He got home, taking a quick bath, then went right to bed. He had somewhere to be at 6 in the morning.

____

Jimin ran for his fucking life.

He'd planned this whole thing out. The first snow. The hunters went out on the first snow. That's half the pack. Who's left, is the omegas in their owners houses. He'd been gnawing on his restrains the whole night, having been known for escape plans he often had restrains, and he knew he could make it look like he'd done nothing.

He'd planned the whole thing out.

He'd get out, find a pack who would help him get his friends and the other omegas here free, then figure something out from there.

Jimin was going to run when the hunters left. He knew what direction they went. He knew he'd be able to reach the pack all the way by the mountain, in the west. He'd heard from his owner that there was a growing pack that took in refugees. He'd run to that pack, make them take him in, gain their trust, and make them help his friends.

He'd planned the whole thing out perfectly.

So why the fuck was his owner there halfway through his trek in the snow? He should be out hunting in the literal opposite direction. Once they made eye contact, Jimin ran. He ran as fast as he could, hearing him yell to a couple other men around and follow behind him.

So yeah, he was running for his fucking life. Halfway became three fourths, his legs struggling to keep up with his adrenaline and fear. A small trip would do it, a small rock, a small- Jimin had to be optimistic.

He was running, he could make it, he could- he was pushed forward, a large hand on his back the reason why. Jimin hit the snow, shivering immediately at the coldness. "No! No get away from me!" Jimin screamed, kicking and scratching as the four alphas tried to pick him up and get closer.

"I knew something was off this morning." His owner tsk'd cockily. "I should've known you'd try something again. Fuck me for getting stuck with you."

Jimin growled, sitting up and scrambling onto his feet. Two of the others he'd gotten to come with him grabbed onto his arms, Jimin immediately kicking and screaming.

He must be close to the border of the west pack. He'd never been this far west, but he could feel it. He had to be close. He had to be.

"Stop trying. You're coming back and you'll be locked up for fucking good this time." He shook his head, waiting for his men to obtain him.

Jimin kept kicking and screaming, his body weak, but his lungs strong. "Let me go!" Jimin slipped out of their grip, scrambling closer to the west, the four alphas most definitely startled from it, but quickly moved with him. Jimin ran with his last bit of adrenaline.

Please please please.

Please. He needed to get to- he has to-

He saw a girl. She looked kind enough.

"Help me!" Jimin yelled with the last of his strength, startling the girl. She must've taken in the situation quickly, and ran off.

Jimin nearly cried on the spot, seeing her flee. But he had to hope for the best. Maybe she was getting help. Maybe-

The back of his shirt was grabbed, pulling him back and choking him. "Ah!" He fell on his back, the cold snow making him shiver. The four alphas were on him now, kneeling beside him and pulling his arms in different directions. "Stop! Stop it!" Jimin still gave a fight.

"Look what you've done." His owner grabbed his jaw, making him look in his eyes. Jimin glared. "You've made a whole mess of this situation."

Jimin spit in his face, kicking and trying to claw his way out of anything. He knew he had a better chance as long as they didn't shift. They grabbed his shirt and sleeves, each trying to grab a limb so he couldn't move. In the commotion, they'd ripped his shirt, the snow cold against his bare back.

His owner finally had enough. A swift blow to his head was enough to make Jimin stop moving. He curled up in the snow, shivering and crying.

He was so close. It was a perfect plan. He would've gotten away with it if his owner wasn't right there, right then. His head hurt now, and his body gave up. The adrenaline had passed, and he was tired. His throat hurt. But he couldn't give in. He kept pushing the alphas away with whatever strength he had left, calling out much quieter. "Please, please, help- help..."

"Hey! Get your hands off of him!" An alpha male ran up and pushed one of the four alphas away from Jimin. He felt his heart lighten, but he still couldn't move. His body had nearly given up.

"Hey, leave us alone. We've got to bring this fucking runaway back." His owner grabbed his wrist, holding it in the air. Jimin couldn't move, hanging his head for a moment, before trying to tug out of his grip.

"No! No please, let me go." His throat hurt. It was dry and rough. "Help me, please!" Jimin looked up at the alpha who could help him, pleading eyes wide. He nodded at him, almost in a trance. Jimin could use this.

He spoke. "You're on our territory. If he wishes to be a part of our pack, he can." He looked at Jimin with...there was something in his head that Jimin couldn't read. "Do you wish to be a part of our pack?"

"Yes!" Jimin cried out desperately, his wrist being held tighter at his words. The pain made him cry. "Yes I do, please- please help me!" Jimin cried harder, finally giving in to his feelings. His wrist hurt, his throat hurt, his body hurt. And he couldn't stop crying.

"Ah ah, not so fast. That's not how that works." His owner dug his nails into Jimin's wrist, taking a step back.

"It is, actually." The alpha helping him also took a step forward, his voice deeper now.

"Only the pack leader can do that." His owner sounded, for once, a little uncertain. At least, to Jimin he did.

He came closer, careful not to step on Jimin. "I'm the pack leaders son. So let him go." Jimin felt his heart soar at this. This was as good as this could get. That girl did go get help!

"Leave us alone little boy." Another alpha spoke, Jimin nearly tuning him out. If this was the pack leaders son, then his word was just as good as the pack leaders. "We're barely on your territory. Let us go with him and we won't bother you again."

"Let. Him. Go." The leaders son sounded angry, but powerful. Jimin felt like he would care for him. "He's now in our pack. He said so himself, right?" He directed this at Jimin, who nodded vigorously, then cried out as his owner tugged on his wrist harder.

The son seemed pissed. It was subtle, he was trying to hide it, but Jimin was used to subtleties. "Then that's that. Give him to me. My father is on his way now. And I'm certain you'd rather deal with me, than him."

"Just fucking leave him. We don't need him." One of the useless alphas spoke, Jimin sniffing.

"He ran from me. Come on kid, let me take him back." His owner was absolutely angry. But Jimin didn't care. The alpha before him wasn't going to let him go and he knew it. He looked up at him, seeing the anger in his eyes, the protectiveness- wait. Protective?

"No no, he's in our pack now." The kind alpha grabbed his owners wrist and pulled it away so he would let go.

At the taste of freedom, Jimin used his final effort to move behind the kind alpha. He stopped though, his body giving out. He wanted to move further. He wanted to get to safety, but instead, he curled up, cold, worn out, and tired. He cried.

"Go. Now. And I'll let you go free of any punishment. But take one step closer and I'll make sure it's the last step you take." The kind alpha spoke sharply, then turned his attention to Jimin.

Jimin shivered, crying quietly to himself. The kind alpha kneeled beside him. "Can you move? Stand at all?"

Jimin looked up at him, trying to sit up, but couldn't, his arm giving out. He cried harder at his uselessness.

"That's alright." He spoke kindly, taking off his clothes. Jimin felt embarrassed for looking, then warm when his pelt coat was on top of his legs. "Get that tattered thing off, wear this instead. You'll feel covered and warm."

He slipped Jimin's torn shirt off, putting his own on, then put the pelt coat over. Jimin curled up in it, finally feeling his fingers again. "T-thank..." Jimin couldn't get anything else out, but saw his owners eyes. He knew he was thinking something. "Behind!-" but he coughed, unable to say anything else. Damnit he was useless.

The kind alpha turned around.

"Now look kid...not to say I'm disappointed, but you said your father was on his way. If you aren't actually the pack leaders son, then he's still mine."

"Oh but I am." He stood protectively in front of Jimin. Jimin hadn't felt that from an alpha in forever. "One more step and you're done." Jimin heard him snarl, and it made him feel safe. He curled up more into the coat.

"Oh yeah? I don't believe you're his son. Now give him back. I'd hate for him to think your lovely gift is forever." His owner sounded the same as ever.

But Jimin trusted this new alpha. He didn't even need to look up to know he'd shifted. Hell, he didn't have it in him to look up. He was too cold, too tired.

"Shit." He heard his owner and the others run. Jimin laughed, feeling happy for once in his goddamn life.

He coughed right after though, curling even more into the warmth that was the kind alpha. He curled his legs into the coat a little more, his toes freezing. He was definitely passing out. From what, he didn't know. It could be exhaustion, lack of food and water, the cold, or the pain. He really didn't know.

What he did know though, was that the alphas scent was comforting and strong. He took it in, deciding that he'd come back when he was done with them, and calmed himself down. He was still shivering, but he was tired.

So he slept.

Well, barely. He was dozing on and off, hearing footsteps around him. He opened his eyes a little, seeing a group of people.

"Take him to the infirmary, he's going to need a lot of help." Whoever was speaking was obviously the leader. He was older than the others, and had the same scent as the son, though his was a little more rough. He took a small look around, unable to get up, and unable to move. He was shivering violently though, the snow on his legs having given him a pasty paleness to his skin color, nearly blue. "Now, come on Seokjin. I need you to take him."

Jimin nodded.

The pack leader looked at him, squatting down to talk to him quietly. "We're going to take care of you, okay? If my son promised you anything, it will happen. But we need to get you out of the snow. Are you okay with this nurse picking you up?"

Jimin nodded. At least he was a kind man.

"Then Seokjin, please." The leader moved and helped pick Jimin up, placing him in Seokjin's arms.

The nurse was sturdy, so Jimin leaned on him. He was too tired to fight anything, and any amount of warmth was going to be appreciated. Jimin dozed off again.

He heard gasps and many steps, the nurse holding him taking a step back as well. Then he felt something poke at his side, and some words. He was comforted though.

"...infirmary...talk to him later." Was all he could get, dozing off here and there. He knew he was moving. It wasn't until he felt a needle prick his skin, did he wake up fully.

"Ah! Please- please don't-" Jimin felt panic course through his body once again. Getting drugged was never fun.

"It's okay." The same nurse was taking care of him, and Jimin relaxed immediately. The nurse shook his head. "I promise I'll be more careful next time. But...you do need some more help than just a simple meal and bandages. Please don't take the needle out, it's going to put good nutrients in you." He traced the small tube that connected to the needle with his finger, Jimin watching him do it. "See these bags? One is good blood, one is yours. We're...clearing out the bad, and giving you better."

"My blood is bad?" Jimin spoke quietly. It was all he could muster.

He nodded. "It's not healthy. You've lost a lot of it too, so...you know, we're helping you get better."

"How can I trust you?"

"Why would we give you better blood?" He gave him a kind smile. "I'll be bringing a meal to you in just a tiny bit. If you're willing to eat dinner with me, that is?" He went to the other machines they had, checking them, and writing things down.

Jimin looked around the place, sitting up just a tiny bit. He had the coat over his legs still, but he wasn't wearing the kind alphas shirt anymore. He pouted for a moment, then looked up at the nurse. "What's your name?"

"Hm? Oh, I'm Kim Seokjin. But please, Jin is fine. May I know your name, or do you need more time to...settle in. I know it's a lot." He smiled patiently. Knowingly.

Jimin looked down. He'd probably seen his body. Fuck, that alpha probably had too. He covered himself a little more. "I'm...not hungry right now." Jimin lied, feeling slightly panicked at the idea of anyone seeing his body.

"Well...I'd love to keep you company, unless you'd like to rest." He was being honest, but Jimin shook his head, scooting back down.

"I think I should sleep again. I'm...exhausted."

"Then rest well. I'm just a call away. Or, if you can't wait, ring the bell. If you pull that string right by your bed I'll hear a bell in my room. Okay? Sleep well." He bowed, taking his notes and leaving.

Jimin closed his eyes, dozing off once again.

____

Jimin woke to a commotion outside his door. He could see three silhouettes, two arguing, one trying to be a mediator.

"Dad! This isn't fair, just because-"

"I've decided. Jungkook, you're 22. Get yourself together. I've decided. I think your instincts haven't kicked in because you've never had to care about them before. Now I'm forcing you to watch over the boy through his recovery. Care for him. Be his friend, be his care giver. Then maybe your instincts will get used to it and you'll finally be able to accept a mate at this years ceremony."

That voice was definitely the pack leader. And the other voice was definitely the kind alpha.

"Dad! That isn't fair. Just because I help one person, I have to- to g-give them my entire time? My entire days?" He...Jungkook, sounded not upset, but worried.

"What were you doing here at six in the morning anyways son? You don't get up ever. If I'm to take a guess-"

"Shush you two!" This was definitely the nurse. Jin was whispering. "I'm going to go in now, take your argument elsewhere."

"I wanted to go in too." Jungkook spoke quietly, Jimin barely able to pick it up.

"It's my duty to see how's he's doing. After all, he's in my pack now. Jungkook, that's another reason I'm doing this. You invited him into the pack, he's now your responsibility. That's what a pack leader does."

"Dad I get it, I need more tasks on my back, thank you-"

"Child-"

"You two." Jin huffed. "Discuss this somewhere else or stop talking." He knocked, then opened the door, a plate in hand, the two other trailing behind him. Jungkook was much more sheepish now than he had been the previous night, while the leader made his presence.

"Good morning Jin." Jimin spoke quietly, sitting up. He took a quick glance at the others, knowing he wasn't in danger.

He kept wary though.

Jin sat next to him, the plate of food being placed on his lap. "Can you eat, or do you need help?" He seemed a tad bit cheery, and he wasn't certain why.

Jimin tried to lift the spoon, but his grip was just too weak. He shook his head, feeling tears threaten to fall.

Jungkook took a quick step forward before stopping. He seemed like he was having a mental battle. Jimin looked at Jin, seeing him smile at Jungkook.

"...you don't need permission to speak you know." Jin chirped at him, before feeding Jimin a pudding of sorts. "Except you sir, you need permission, and no, he has to eat first before you may question him. That's my requirement. So, you may wait outside while he eats, or you can find somewhere to sit and stay quiet." Jin was throwing his weight around, and Jimin liked it.

It was funny to see the pack leader sigh and leave. Jungkook on the other hand, sat on the other side of the bed, playing with his hands nervously.

"...he's out of earshot you know." Jin spoke quietly.

Jungkook must've taken this as a queue to start talking. "We're you warm enough last night? I'm sorry I ran off on you like that, I was just- I should've taken you in instead of running them off."

Jimin gave him one glance, then nodded. "...I was. But...barely. And...it's okay. You helped me nonetheless." Jimin finished the pudding, being given a glass of water to finish.

"No, it wasn't okay. I should've cared for you better." Jungkook looked at him, then quickly looked down at his hands again. "...Seokjin hyung, do we have more blankets?"

"We're running low. I can't give him more, since the extras are for the children. Winter is coming."

"And the extra pelts won't be ready till at least a week..." Jungkook contemplated, then sighed. "When do you close?"

"9pm." Seokjin cleaned up the plate, taking the empty cup. "Need more water?"

Jimin nodded. "Yes please."

As Seokjin left the room, the pack leader came in. He sat in the chair Jin was sitting in. Jimin looked at him, then looked at Jungkook. "What might you need to ask of me?"

"Your name, age, and rank. And your preferred area of work. We all do our share. I'll prepare a house for you for when you're ready to leave here." He shrugged. "That's all I need, if you still wish to be a part of the pack. You can resign from it at any time, no punishments, no questions. You can say you don't want to be a part of the pack right now, but we won't send you off until winter is over and you're healthy." He nodded. "Okay?"

Jimin was astonished. "M-my names Jimin. Park Jimin." He heard a small hum from Jungkook. "I'm...24, and I'm an omega. I can work anywhere really...but I don't know what there is."

"Perfect. Thank you Park Jimin." The pack leader smiled. And it was kind. His face held a toughness from years of taking in refugees, and Jimin was just another one of them. Another act of kindness. That's all it was. "Jungkook will show you around when you can get on your feet. I've given him the task of watching over you. He's never taken in anyone, and because he has to learn what it's like, he'll be like your personal helper. I hope you don't mind."

"So it's a task?" Jimin looked at Jungkook. He was still looking down, almost...shy. That was not the man he saw yesterday.

Jungkook nodded. "I'm going to take good- good care of you Jimin. I promise you."

His stutter made Jimin confused. He was so confident the previous night. How did one nights sleep make him change so drastically?

"Good. Jimin...welcome to the pack. Please, rest well. I'll check in when needed. I hope you like your stay here. If you ever need anything, ask Jungkook." He stood, smiling wide. "I'm more than happy to welcome you here, so please, don't feel guilty."

With that, he bowed and left, leaving Jimin with Jungkook.

Jimin sat up a little better, then looked at Jungkook. "Well? What's wrong with you?"

"W-with me?" Jungkook looked up, eyes wide and surprised.

"Yeah, you." Jimin looked him up and down. "Your entire alpha energy is gone. Where did it go?"

"I- oh. I just...well, you're- I'm just happy you're okay. And I wish...I could've done more. But I promise you, those men will never harm you again. Or anyone else." He said it reassuringly, but Jimin gasped.

"You!- what did you do?!" Jimin was surprised.

Jungkook was also surprised. "I'm a hunter...I- I lead our hunters. I...made sure you were protected." Jungkook spoke as if everything made sense, but Jimin was still shocked.

"You did that for me?" He spoke softer this time. "Really?"

"Of course." Jungkook smiled a little. "Anything for you."

The cogs fit together in Jimin's head. Jungkook's wolf was head over heels for him. "I see." He smiled a little. How cute.

"What do you mean?" Jungkook was still smiling at him, and he watched him look over him. "Oh...you're not wearing my shirt anymore." He seemed disappointed.

Jimin smiled more to himself. Jungkook's wolf had absolutely never found someone to take care of before. "I had to change so my body could be taken care of." Jimin looked down. Of course Jungkook had seen his body, he was the one who saw it first. Now three people knew.

"I tried to cover you as fast as I could. I should've taken you to the infirmary myself." Jungkook sighed. "But Seokjin hyung is a good nurse. The best we have. So I'll try not to worry too much."

Seokjin came back with the water, handing the cup to Jimin. "You know Jungkook, I'd have been back sooner if your father would stop talking to me." He sat down. "And I took a look again. We don't have very many extra blankets, and we need those for the babies that will be born in the winter. Heaven forbid they freeze."

"Ah...okay. I'll...mm." Jungkook leaned back in his chair. "The hunt is in a month...and those four..." Jungkook shook his head. "I have plenty of extra. How cold will it get here?" Jungkook stood up, pacing slightly. "Never mind, I need to talk to my father. Jimin...it was nice meeting you. I'll be back later tonight." Jungkook bowed.

Jimin watched the scene with a smile. "It was nice to meet you too, Jungkook." He watched him grin, bite it away, then leave.

Jimin watched him go, laughing to himself quietly. "Is he always so like that? Yesterday he was quite rough." Jimin spoke to Seokjin, who was checking the machines again.

"Oh no, he's never like this." Jin shook his head, writing some things down.

"If I could take a guess, then I'm sure his wolf is giving him trouble." Jimin shared a look with Jin, getting the information he needed from it.

If he could get Jungkook to help him, this would be extremely helpful.

"You're a good guesser. It was funny, really, seeing him wait outside the door and pacing. I think he forgot that his father would be here too." Seokjin brought Jimin a change of pillows. "Tell me if you need anything more. I do apologize for not being able to provide more warmth."

"It's okay. It was only slightly cold. And it was much better than in the snow." Jimin smiled at him, then looked at his lap. "How long will I be here?"

"I'm certain until the end of the month. Perhaps even all of winter. Your condition isn't exactly...good."

"Has anyone else seen besides the two of you? I'd rather keep it small...it's less explaining to do." Jimin took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. His body was a story on its own.

"No, it's just us two. Though...it would be better to talk to the pack leader about why you're here. He's kind...but he needs to know why a refugee is a refugee. Not an entire story, but maybe where you came from? He knows a lot of places."

"Oh. That makes sense..." Jimin sighed. Of course he seemed mysterious. He barely gave his name today, and he came from the forest running from four alphas while also being nearly naked. That's an entire thing that needs explanation.

"He won't ask you anything until you've recovered though."

Jimin finally drank his water. "That's kind of him..."

"The whole family is kind. Jungkook though..." Seokjin tsk'd. "He's a shy kid. A lot of people here think he's cold. But really, he just can't handle people." Seokjin laughed a little. "So don't make him feel bad if he's a little awkward. His shyness is definitely fighting with his wolf at the moment, but don't tell him I said that."

Jimin smiled. He loved secrets. "Of course."

"Will you be fine on your own? Maybe in the next couple of days we'll try and help you walk again. You're going to need some physical therapy." Seokjin was very clear, not sugarcoating, but not being harsh.

"I see..." Jimin nodded. "I'll be fine. Don't worry."

"If you need me ring the bell. I'll be back with dinner." Seokjin smiled and left.

Jimin took a better look around. There was a window, a bathroom, and a table next to his bed with the machines, along with another door, most likely for storage. It was a large room, and that made Jimin happy. They most likely didn't have many patients if the rooms were large.

Only once did Seokjin come in to check on him, getting him a change of clothes and a trip to the bathroom. He stayed in bed for quite some time before growing bored.

He slowly took the blanket off of him to see his legs. He was probably close to getting frostbite yesterday, knowing how long he was in the snow. His body ached too, if he thought about it for longer than a second, so he ignored it, as he always had.

He swung his feet off the bed and put his feet on the floor. The rugs were nice. When he tried to get up though, his legs shook and gave out, Jimin sitting on the bed.

"Damn it." Apparently he was worse off than he thought.

He heard a small yell outside his door. "Sorry! Let me help you."

"N-no it's okay!"

"Please, it's no trouble."

"You've had a whole day of work, it's okay!"

"Is Seokjin-" this voice was definitely Jungkook.

"He's in the kitchen." But this voice, he didn't know it. "He's coming to feed Jimin."

"Perfect!" Jungkook's voice was quieter now, probably walking with, Jimin assumed, another nurse.

He slowly got himself back in bed. Somehow the whole day had passed and he didn't even notice.

He didn't even get the blanket back on him when Jungkook entered the room. "Oh! I meant to knock I'm sorry." He was grinning, hands full of- he couldn't even process it as Seokjin kicked the back of Jungkook's knees and made them give out. "Ack!" He fell to his knees, Jin scolding him.

"I told you to get out of my way and to knock! You did neither!" He tsk'd, shaking his head as he walked in. He sat next to Jimin, setting down a plate of food on the table. "Can you eat, or do you need help?"

"Help, most likely." Jimin tried not to smile at their interaction, watching Jungkook get up and pick up his things.

"Hyung, I simply got too excited." Jungkook opened the closet door, refolding the blankets and clothes he brought. "I got off my shift and I get to take a week off. So I can be here. Won't that be so nice hyung?" Jungkook laughed, Seokjin groaning.

"You're going home and coming back in the mornings, right?" He looked at Jimin and rolled his eyes playfully, a smile on his face. He fed him the soup he'd made.

"Nope! Dad told me if I take a step off this property then I dead meat so I'd rather not be one with the fishes." Jungkook turned back to the two. "Besides, there's plenty of free rooms. I'll even help out in the kitchen, the cleaning, and whatever else you need. But I'll leave once hunting season starts."

"Yours starts later?" Jimin ate the soup happily, the warmth making him tired. He really wished he could have more.

Somehow Jungkook picked up on it. "Do you need more food?" He quickly looked over Jimin.

"Answer the damn question Jungkook." Seokjin sighed.

"Oh, sorry." Jungkook blushed a little, standing at the end of the bed. "Our hunting season is when the bigger animals hibernate, so a little into winter. We need rather a lot of food so...we need less of a fight." Jungkook explained, then looked at the empty bowl. "Need more?"

"I wouldn't mind more." Jimin smiled a little, looking down. Jungkook was way too smiley with him, it was contagious.

"Perfect. Seokjin-"

"I'll get it, don't worry. Your workday starts tomorrow. Namjoon will be here tomorrow too."

"Really?" Jungkook smiled wider. "I haven't seen him in a while." He sat next to Jimin on the other side of the bed.

"Yep. Best behavior." Seokjin took the bowl and left.

Jungkook became shy once again. "I brought you my extra blankets. I know it's not much, but it should keep you warm. I also brought some clothes if you ever need to change." He looked up and saw his coat still on the bed and smiled. "Did this keep you warm?" Jungkook scooted closer and patted the coat.

"Warm enough. Thank you...by the way. Again. For everything. I'm here because of you." Jimin smiled at him, watching him blush a little and look down again.

"It's no problem...I'm just doing my job." He was definitely fighting his wolf. He could tell in his apprehension to be closer. His fingers were tapping on the bed, over his coat, while his body was stiff.

"What is your job?" Jimin liked his reactions. It was cute that this alpha was so shy and kind. He needed that.

"I'm- well, I'm learning how to be a pack leader. But I'm in charge of our hunters. And I'm often on patrol, and I spend a lot of time in our watchtower." Jungkook looked up at Jimin with a shy smile. "It's not much, sorry."

Jimin blushed deeply in surprise. His honest smile was extremely attractive and Jimin was not here to catch feelings. He just liked his reactions. That was all. "I-it's good that you're taking care- that you're taking your responsibilities seriously." Jimin nodded, looking at the coat. "You can take it back now...if you need it."

"Oh no! It's a gift. Please, keep it." Jungkook smiled at him.

Kind. Keep. Closer.

Woah there, hold up. Jimin heard his wolf quietly talk to him. He hadn't heard his wolf tell him anything good before.

"Re-really? But it's so nice, I couldn't possibly take it." Jimin felt flustered. "It's way too nice, I can't- no no, you should take it back. Same with your shirt. I'm not sure where it is, but it's too nice for me."

Jungkook shook his head with a smile, moving his hand to put it over Jimin's. His hands were warm, Jimin still cold. He wished he would get closer to him. "It's a gift. You deserve to have nice things. It's my best winter coat, so keep it. You need it more than me. Besides, I brought you more of my best things. The blankets and clothes I brought you are all for you."

"You don't have to do that..." Jimin blushed more. "That's too much. I- I can't accept it. I'm sorry, I can't accept all of this." Jimin felt panicked at the idea.

"No, it's yours though. It's- it's a gift. I want you to have it." Jungkook looked slightly confused. "Is my scent too much? Or are you not used to this?"

Jimin took his hand away from Jungkook's. "It's too much. I don't need all of it. You should keep it. Thank you for the generosity, but please...it's just too much." Jimin felt bad for taking his things. "You need it more-"

"Jimin." Jungkook sighed with a smile. "I'm giving it to you. I have more. I'm here to take care of you. Not the other way around."

"B-but!" Jimin protested, sitting up further. "It's too much! This is all- I can't- Jungkook, it's all too much. I mean it."

"But- but it's a gift...?" Jungkook was most definitely confused now. "Why can't you accept it?"

Jimin felt bad for making him feel bad about his gifts. He was just trying to be nice after all, but it was just...

"I've never been given anything Jungkook. I'm not sure I can't accept your gift."

"Then I'll happily be the first to give you things. The coat is sturdy and warm, perfect for winter. The blankets are warm, but won't make you overheat. The clothes are simple. If you ever need anything more, I'll be happy to bring it to you." Jungkook spoke steadily, making sure he was seeming helpful. "Anything you want Jimin."

"Is this how you treat all of your pack members?" Jimin gave him an odd look, raising his eyebrow. "Or perhaps just omegas? How many blankets and coats have you given away?"

"Well let me count." Jungkook pretended to contemplate. "One coat." He patted the bed. "And about three blankets which just so happen to be in your closet." He smiled at him. "What I mean, is that I don't treat anyone like this."

"Then why me?" Jimin questioned him, his wolf disappointed in him.

Accept him.

"People used to want to mate me so they'd be spoiled. But now they ignore me because I deny them. But you- you're- I can't- I'm just-" Jungkook blushed deeply, looking down, his hand retracting to his lap. "You're special."

"No ones ever said that before." Jimin tsk'd. "I heard what your father said this morning. You're trying to find a mate. And I'm not going to be that for you." Jimin finally got Jungkook's attention, without the haze of his wolf. He looked slightly worried, and Jimin stood his ground. "And if you think that just because you're buttering me up by giving me gifts and promising me anything that you'll get me to want to be your mate, then you're far from getting anywhere."

Jungkook looked taken aback. "That- that wasn't my-"

Seokjin came back. "Jungkook, if your father would please stop talking to me while I'm busy, I'd really appreciate that. Go to him, he asked for you one more time before you stay the week." Seokjin sat next to Jimin and started to feed him again.

Jungkook stood and looked at Jimin with concern. "Okay. I'll be back." Jungkook left, ruffling his hair as he went. Seokjin watched him go.

"Mmm." Jimin loved the food, feeling warm and full. "Did you make this? This is amazing."

"I did." Seokjin sounded confused. "What did you tell him?"

"Oh it's nothing." Jimin laughed. "He's not used to people telling him no is he?"

Jin looked at him in surprise. "Did he make a move on your already?"

"No. But I stopped him before he could." Jimin drank water, definitely feeling better than the previous day. "I'm not here to find a mate."

"What are you here for?"

"Freedom." Jimin smiled. "I don't want to be tied down again."

But he's good.

Jimin ignored his wolf.

"I see. He's...a good person." Seokjin put everything back on the tray he brought, setting it aside. "And I do mean that. But I mean...you have only known him for a day."

"He's shy, and kind." Jimin smiled. "But he doesn't know how to treat a partner, I'm assuming. He hasn't been in a relationship...has he?" Jimin felt a little possessive, then embarrassed for feeling that. He didn't really want anyone else to have dated him. He liked being special.

"No, he hasn't. He hasn't found anyone interesting before. Besides...well, it's not my place to say. He's got his own reasons for not dating." Seokjin stood up, taking the tray. "He'll be back in, but he's sleeping in another room, okay? Again...ring the bell if you ever need me." He nodded and left.

Jimin sat in the bed, feeling his wolf argue with him.

Safe. Keep him. Mine.

Jimin ignored it. He couldn't fall for the first guy that was nice to him.

He ignored it.

Jungkook came back into the room with another cup of water. "Seokjin said you might want more to drink." He set it on his table, then sat down beside him. "And...I'd like to explain myself, if you'll let me." He looked down at his hands in his lap.

Jimin sighed. "Fine."

"I can't get you out of my head. M-my wolf is- is telling me things. And I want to give you anything and everything." Jungkook laughed in embarrassment, then hid his face in his hands. "But I don't want to be mated."

Jimin didn't know what to do with his confession. He was surprised that he'd confessed at all. "I'm...confused."

"Me too. So if it doesn't kill you...will you let me care for you with no strings attached? I promise I'll take care of you. And I'll make sure I'm of service. But...I don't need anything more. Is this okay with you?" Jungkook looked up at him, looking a little desperate. "I- I've never heard my wolf before. It's been silent my whole life." Jungkook exhaled slowly. "But it spoke for you."

Jimin was now even more taken aback. He thought he had him figured out, but it turned out he didn't at all. "Oh."

"Is that okay with you? For me to take care of you? I just want my wolf to be satisfied. It's never- I've never done this before. I don't know anything or what to expect." Jungkook glanced at Jimin before putting his head in his hands again. "I'm sorry."

"No no, you don't have to apologize. I..." Jimin considered it. He wasn't looking for a mate either. "I'm fine with it. You can treat me specially. Whatever you'd like to make yourself happy." Jimin shrugged. That's what he was used to anyways.

"But will you be happy?" Jungkook looked up at him again. "I won't force you to do anything. I just know that I'm feeling something new." Jungkook sighed. "So please. Don't feel pressured to say yes."

Jimin stared at him. "It's okay. No strings attached?"

"No strings attached. This time here, and then I'll leave you alone. If you want that." Jungkook was absolutely serious. Jimin could tell he was absolutely serious.

"...okay. I don't mind. You can take care of me while you're here." Jimin wouldn't mind Jungkook staying around. "Thank you. For clearing it up. But...just out of curiosity...why don't you want a mate?" Jimin smiled at him a little.

"Oh." Jungkook blushed a little. "I...thank you. For letting me. And I just don't want to yet." Jungkook looked away, Jimin laughing.

"That's such a lie!" Jimin laughed at him. "You couldn't even look at me while you said it!"

"Ji-Jimin." Jungkook blushed more, slightly embarrassed. "I just...don't want to be the leader yet. We're supposed to...well, at least how it used to be...supposedly the pack leaders child will become the pack leader once they mate. And usually that happens in our early 20's. But uh." Jungkook licked his lips and continued to look away. "I'm 22. And my dads getting older. And we usually have young pack leaders. You know. With the help of their elders. But I'm just...not ready."

"You seemed so powerful and kind though. Especially yesterday. You stood up for me and protected me. That's what a leader does." Jimin looked at him. "I'm sure you could do it."

"I did it for you. I don't know if I can do that for everyone." Jungkook subconsciously touched his thigh, rubbing it on a certain spot. "Besides, I'd need to have a mate and I'm not interested in anyone. I've been set up on date after date but I just..." he winced a little, twitching.

"You've been on dates?" Jimin looked at him. He didn't really like that idea... "Did you hurt your thigh?" He felt a little concern for him. He didn't want Jungkook to be in pain.

"Oh- yeah, it's just, my dad sets them up in hopes I find a mate. But thanks to you I don't have to have any more while I'm here." Jungkook grinned. "I'd much rather be here with you than go on set up dates. They're so awkward." Jungkook laughed a little. "And it's a waste of their time."

"Did you get hurt?" Jimin knew he didn't answer his question on purpose.

"Hm? Oh. It's fine." Jungkook laughed it off. "Besides, it's just a scratch. I'll be healed by hunting season." He smiled at Jimin.

"...does it hurt? I'm sorry if it does. You didn't have to go as far as you did." Jimin apologized, looking down at his lap.

"I needed to make sure those men never touched you again." Jungkook glared at the floor. He seemed pissed. "And he barely got a scratch on me, so don't even worry." Jungkook sighed heavily. "They won't be bothering you anymore." Jungkook muttered to himself.

"Does it hurt, Jungkook?" Jimin persisted, knowing Jungkook was trying to make him less worried.

Jungkook sighed. "A little bit. But Seokjin is our best nurse so I'll be fine. Is that what you'd like to hear?" Jungkook looked up at him again, a small pink tint on his cheeks.

Jimin smiled at that. It was cute to see him listen to his wolf, giving Jimin what he wanted. And it felt nice to be given what he wanted. "That is what I want to hear. I wish I could make it better." Jimin still felt a little bad that Jungkook got hurt.

"I wish I could help you. But I know I can't make anything heal faster." Jungkook still looked pissed, his eyebrows furrowed. "Damn it." He leaned back in his chair and ran a hand through his hair.

Jimin was surprised with Jungkook expressing himself so forwardly. "A-are you okay?" Jimin sat up a little better, wishing Jungkook was closer. Maybe if he was closer he wouldn't feel so stressed.

"I should've done worse to them." Jungkook nearly scowled, poking his cheek with his tongue in annoyance. "I can't believe the shit that-" Jungkook stopped, sighing. "Sorry. I'm just..." Jungkook sighed again. "I'm still upset. The fact that anyone has laid a hand on you is a crime."

Jimin blinked in surprise. "Why would you want to do worse to them? Was- was what you did not enough?" Jimin hadn't had anyone be so protective over him before. "You did as much as you could. Even more than you needed to."

"They hurt you." Jungkook shook his head. "I should've done the same to them."

Jimin shivered. This is probably what Seokjin meant. If this is how the pack viewed Jungkook, then of course they would only see him as cold hearted. Especially if this is how he acts around the hunting season. That might be the only time they really see him. "No- no one deserves the same treatment I received."

Jungkook glared at him, making Jimin flinch. "How badly have you been hurt? I'll make sure it never happens again."

Jimin's wolf was responding to Jungkook intensely.

Cared for! Safe! Loved!

He suppressed it.

"I- I- I've been- w-whatever's been done to me shouldn't be done to another." Jimin kept it vague, knowing that Jungkook would flip his shit if he knew.

Jungkook sighed. "Sorry. I'm just caught up in- never mind." He got up. "It's getting late, isn't it. I'm sure you'd like some alone time."

"I don't need to be alone." Jimin's words made him pause. "Besides...it's getting a little cold. Would you get me another blanket? Your coat couldn't exactly cover me all the way." Jimin spoke quietly, feeling odd to request anything at all.

"Of course!" Jungkook happily went to the closet and brought him another blanket, covering him up and smiling. "Better? The winter does get cold. Tomorrow I'm going to help you with the beginning of your physical therapy! You'll meet Namjoon hyung, he's so amazing." Jungkook was most definitely trying to ignore the fact that he was still upset at the idea of Jimin being hurt.

"Oh yeah? So soon?"

"He had to prepare some things, but yeah! Now I'll be just a room away, okay? Knock on your wall if you need me." Jungkook gave him a smile. "Goodnight Jimin."

"Goodnight Jungkook." Jimin lowered down into his blankets.

Closer.

That was all Jimin could think of as Jungkook left. His wolf really wanted Jungkook closer.

____

Jimin gasped himself awake, sitting up and breathing hard. He clutched his shirt, right over his heart, trying to calm himself. He panted, looking around the room to find the people in his dream. He couldn't relax, even knowing he was awake. He felt like the shadows were shapes, like he wasn't safe, and never would be.

He went to knock on the wall, but stopped. It was too silly. It wasn't even a big deal, it was just in his head. He was just seeing shadows. They were just shadows.

He let his fist his the wall very quietly in indecision.

He was not expecting his door to be flung open with Jungkook standing in the doorway. He was barely dressed, coming into the room and closing the door quietly behind him. "You okay?" He spoke quietly, his voice rough and obviously laced in tiredness.

Jimin was glad the room was dark, as his blush spread from his cheeks to his ears. His voice sounded extremely attractive. "I-I'm sorry, you didn't need to- it's just so silly." Jimin felt bad once again, Jungkook taking the seat next to his bed.

"Tell me about it. Why'd you knock? Actually, you don't even need to talk about it if you don't want to." Jungkook laid his head on the bed, his hand on Jimin's thigh and his eyes closed. Jimin felt bad for making him get out of bed.

"I...god I'm sorry, you can go back to bed."

"No, it's okay." Jungkook mumbled. "I'll sleep here."

"N-no, that's uncomfortable."

"M'not gunna get in bed with you." Jungkook muttered. "Unless you want me to."

Jimin felt his cheeks heat up more. "N-no, but it- maybe you could stay- stay here?"

"Where would you like me to stay?" Jungkook was still mumbling, definitely tired, but doing his best to stay awake for Jimin. Being here for Jimin. "Would you like me to shift? Maybe you'd feel better with a wolf in the room. I've heard that packs used to do that for pups."

Jimin nodded. "Yeah. It's helpful. Especially for nightmares."

"I see." Jungkook smiled at him, tired, but knowingly. "Hopefully I make you feel better. Are you warm enough?" Jungkook stood up and took off his shirt. He folded it nicely and put it on the chair.

Jimin stared at him, probably for too long.

He heard Jungkook chuckle lowly. That made him blush even more. "You're staring."

"S-sorry." Jimin averted his eyes.

"Just don't wanna rip my clothes. I like them." Jungkook moved his pants off, Jimin glad the room was dark. He, of course, wasn't looking. Though, he did watch him shift this time, wanting to see what he looked like.

The fully black wolf was startling, especially since he was so large. He was definitely the pack leaders son by sheer size. But when he looked at him, as if in approval, Jimin saw the white, tear shaped mark under his eye. "Oh. You're so beautiful." Jimin smiled at him, reaching out a little shakily to pet him.

Jungkook obliged, resting his head on the bed, letting Jimin pet him. His wolf was absolutely loving it.

Perfect! Shift! Sleep with him!

Jimin shook his head, ignoring his yelling wolf. "Y-you're right. I feel better already. Nothing would dare go against you." Jimin smiled, kind of wishing Jungkook could lay on the bed. He was too big, sadly. He'd take up more than half of it. He kept petting Jungkook's head, hearing his tail hit the floor in satisfaction.

He moved down again, calmed and tired. Jungkook stayed where he was. "Thank you Jungkook. I guess it makes sense for me to get nightmares." Jimin spoke quietly, knowing the wolf would be able to hear him just fine. "I know...you want to know more about me. But it's not fun information. And I'm certain that if you learned it...you'd be upset."

Jungkook whined, almost as if to tell him that he would be upset, but still wanted to know. He nudged Jimin's side with his nose, moving his head under Jimin's hand a little better.

Jimin wondered if he should share. He didn't think he'd stay here forever, but...well, he liked having Jungkook around. And maybe being known wouldn't be so bad. Maybe he'd even get Jungkook to help him with his goal.

"You want me to explain?"

Jungkook nodded.

"Mm. Well. Maybe a little tonight. Then a little tomorrow." Jimin pet him more, closing his eyes. "I'm not sure where I was from. What pack I was originally from. I was taken when I was young by a pack of raiders. They're a small pack, but...well, they plan well." Jimin felt Jungkook exhale heavily. "You saw me run away. And that's what I've been doing for as long as I could, so it's no surprise I was treated badly." Jimin sighed. "You could tell. From one look...you could tell."

Jungkook huffed, so Jimin pet him, giving a tired laugh. "Yeah. I know you want to make it all better. And you are. This is all so much more than I've ever had. So thank you. I'm warm for once in my life." Jimin started to doze off.

Jimin slept nightmare free after that.

____

Jungkook woke up with Jimin on the floor curled into him, blankets over them both. His little hands were grabbing onto his fur, as if to pull him closer. Jungkook's wolf was more than happy. With Jimin being this close, his scent was stronger, and Jungkook loved it. He took it in, hoping Jimin smelled like him and that he'd smell like Jimin.

It took him a while to wonder how and why Jimin was on the floor with him. If anything, Jungkook thought he might've ended up on the bed with Jimin instead of Jimin on the floor with him.

Whatever was the reason, Jungkook curled around him protectively, and with content. He knew he was a large wolf, but he didn't realize Jimin was so small. He could probably curl all the way around him. That sounded nice. That way he'd be obviously his. And Jimin should be his.

His wolf was loud as ever.

Mine. Mine mine mine. Mark him. Mate him.

Jungkook allowed his wolf to be a little spoiled. He curled around Jimin completely, making sure he was warm and protected. He nosed at Jimin's neck, wanting desperately to scent him, but to distract himself, he focused on making sure Jimin was warm. He felt Jimin move further into him, burrowing in.

Jungkook felt so amazing. No one else should ever be able to do this. No one else should be this close. And right! He even shared with him. No one else was learning secrets about Jimin.

Jungkook desperately wanted to give something as well, information about himself, another gift, or anything else he might want. Fuck, he really wanted to give him everything.

Jungkook was happy. He could've stayed here forever. But sadly, the day had to start.

Jimin stirred, making small morning noises that made Jungkook wag his tail.

"Jungkook- ah?" He sounded confused, his voice making Jungkook want to kiss- woah, hold up, too far. Jungkook toned down his excitement. He nosed at him again.

"Ah...mmm, shit." Jimin muttered. "Sorry. Guess I just...wasn't thinking."

Jungkook nosed at him again, giving a low whine.

"Yes, I'm comfortable." Jimin giggled a little, making Jungkook wag his tail harder. "You're cute." He muttered, stretching out with a small sound. "I can't get up."

Jungkook barked a laugh, making sure to be quiet. He stood up and stretched, yawning, then laid down next to Jimin. He moved his head to motion him to grab on.

"A-ah, I don't want to hurt you." Jimin shook his head.

Jungkook moved against him.

"Fine, fine." Jimin grabbed onto Jungkook's fur, holding on as Jungkook stood up. He moved him to the bed, setting him down as softly as he could. Jimin pulled the covers over himself. "Thank you."

Jungkook nodded, then his ears picked up sounds of the front door to the infirmary opening. He sat on the floor, right at the side of Jimin's bed and stared at the door, much like a guard dog.

Jimin giggled. "It's fine, you don't have to be so on guard. Seokjin would never let anyone bad in."

Jungkook nodded but didn't move.

Jimin laughed a little. "You'd really do this for me? You're too kind."

Jungkook nodded again.

Anything. I'd do anything for him.

Seokjin knocked on the door, waiting a little, then came in. "Oh! Jungkook what the fuck are you doing here?" He looked at Jungkook in pure confusion. "I...I'm here for your check up and reminder, Jimin." He came further into the room, checking Jimin's machines, the amount of blood, and many other things. He wrote them down.

"I told him to come, it's okay."

"Bad night?"

Jimin nodded. "Didn't want to be alone."

"Well, if he ever steps out of line tell me. I'll get him back in line."

Jungkook playfully barked at him.

Jin smiled at him. "You know I'll always win. You may be a bigger wolf but you've always lost against me."

He whined at that.

"You do not let me win. I win on my own." Jimin laughed at that.

"You two are cute."

"Glad you think so." Jin cheekily grinned, eyeing Jungkook. He was definitely a little pissed at Jin casually flirting, but he knew it was harmless.

"Well...how's my day looking?"

"Well, first I'll get this big oaf off your hands and make him help make you breakfast, then I'll send him back to feed you while I feed the others, second, you need a bath, change of clothes and sheets, and third...today's your first day of physical therapy. Namjoon is a great doctor. Jungkook will be with you the whole way too."

"Ah. Busy, I see."

"Very much so. Now." Jin picked up Jungkook's neatly folded clothes off the chair. "Shall we go?"

Jungkook whined again, standing up and nudging Jimin with his nose.

Jin looked bewildered for a moment, then looked away. Jimin smiled and pet his head, making Jungkook happy. "You can go, I'll be okay. I'm awake now."

He nodded and walked off with Seokjin.

After they'd left, they went to Jungkook's room, Jungkook shifting and getting some clothes back on.

"You better be careful Jungkook. If your dad finds out..."

"He won't. He won't come back till Jimin is healthy, we both know this. So for the time being...it's a safe space."

"Yes, but if he comes out of this hospital smelling like you..."

"Then he better get used to it. Everyone better get used to it." Jungkook shrugged, heading to the kitchen with Seokjin. "He's mine. One way or another. And if he wants to mate, then fuck, who am I to say no?"

"You told him you don't."

"And if one day he says he does...then yeah. He might not know it, but ultimately it's his decision." Jungkook spoke quietly. "You know I've never heard my wolf before. This is something so different...and he's spoiling me too. It feels really nice." Jungkook laughed, then cleared his throat. "Sorry."

Seokjin shook his head. "You should listen to your wolf."

"I can't." Jungkook looked down, the two entering the kitchen and starting food. "You know why I can't."

"You may not be ready, but no one ever is. Do you think your father was completely ready when he became the pack leader? No! It may be a title, but it doesn't mean you're alone. He still gets help from the elders. He still asks for help. You're going to be alright. So yes, you should listen to your wolf." Jin chopped food quickly as he spoke, slightly heated.

"Hyung..."

"No, don't hyung me." Seokjin threw everything into a pot, motioning Jungkook to get some bowls. "You know exactly what happens when you ignore your wolf."

"Which is why I asked him if he'd spoil me. And he said yes, so I'll be fine." Jungkook still couldn't look him in the face. "For the time being, at least."

"Jungkook. Please. Once you ignore your wolf completely..."

"I won't let it get to that." Jungkook shook his head, not looking at Seokjin. "I won't let it happen, and I won't scare him like that. He's fragile..."

"Jungkook. Tell him straight up. Tell him that you want to mate him." Seokjin definitely wasn't kidding with him, making Jungkook slightly upset.

"Hyung, I can't. And you know this. I don't want to be the pack leader yet. I never wanted to be, and I still don't. If I mate- if I ask him to mate me...I'm going to have to become the pack leader. I don't get a choice. And all I would want is for Jimin to have a nice, calm life, with no expectations of being a pack leaders mate. Do you know how much my mom has to do? How much she's in charge of?"

Seokjin sighed. "You know that the first couple months are an introductory time. And everyone helps everyone, that's why this pack is so amazing. We could give him more time to adjust."

"He doesn't even know anyone else besides us three." Jungkook sighed. "I don't- he just got out of something fucking awful, I wouldn't want to put him into something else stressful."

"Jungkook, please. I don't want-"

"And it won't." Jungkook nearly growled his words. "It won't happen, and I'll be fine. Okay?"

"You're much stronger than you give yourself credit for." Jin stopped his aggressive food making and looked at him. "You don't even know how wild your wolf would become." Seokjin persisted. "You need to tell him. Fighting your wolf is a death sentence."

Jungkook tsk'd. "I'll be fine. He's been silent my whole life, just cause he's loud now doesn't change a thing." He put the bowls where Jin needed them. "Besides...this...what matters is that he's comfortable. And if that's not with me, and if that's not as a pack leaders mate, then that's that. I can't tell if he feels the same. But if he doesn't then my wolf can rot in hell for all I care."

"Jungkook! Why can't you just tell him? D-don't ignore your wolf. You know how bad of an idea that is. I promise you." Jin sighed heavily. "You know what people say happens when you ignore it. I can't imagine if your wolf got loose." He shivered. "That wouldn't be good for anyone."

Jungkook sighed. "Hyung. Please. I know what I'm doing. I'll make sure nothing happens to him. I'll make sure I'm being given enough to satisfy me. He already said he'd do it. But also asking him to mate me so soon is- that's blindsiding."

"Be honest with him, and don't ignore your wolf. That's all I have left to say about that. I never lied to Namjoonie, and you know I told him the second day I knew him that I was a done deal for him. So it's not uncommon or weird."

"Namjoon hyung didn't have to become a leader." Jungkook spoke quietly. "In a normal situation...I would. I would give myself to him in an instant. But because I'm my fathers son...it isn't normal."

"Well, Namjoon's family is quite high up too. His lineage is with the elders. Whatever, what I'm trying to say is that everyone has something that's pressuring or restricting. Namjoon had to understand that I'd be busy for most of my days but free at night. But him being medicinal means he's busy too, going out often. We sacrificed certain things, but we're still happy."

"Hyung. I can't ask him to sacrifice his whole life for me." Jungkook shook his head, Jin putting the soup into the bowls.

Jin handed him a bowl and tray, getting a large tray for the other bowls. They had some people in the infirmary, but not many. Jimin was the only one under intense care. "What's he even leaving behind?"

Jungkook took the bowl. "Oh." He hadn't thought about that. "Well, I won't tie him down." Jungkook nodded and left. He wasn't  being very helpful, but he would start today.

He knocked on Jimin's door, waited a tiny bit, then went inside. Jimin was waiting patiently, looking a little happy to see someone.

"Do you only have nice clothes?" Jimin questioned him immediately.

Jungkook laughed a little and sat next to him, setting down the tray and taking a quick look at the machines. "I do. It's one of the only luxurious I get for being important." He smiled at him. "I brought you nice clothes if you want to wear them."

Jimin blushed a little, looking down. "I haven't had luxuries before."

"Then I'll get you used to having them." Jungkook felt at ease. Taking care of his omega was pleasing and only made him want to do more good for him. "Besides, you'll have a nice day today. You can have the luxury of moving today." Jungkook gave a small poke at a joke, not wanting to push too far too soon.

Jimin rolled his eyes with a smile. "How lovely, I get to walk."

"Hey, you gave a huge effort, it's no wonder your legs gave out on you. You just gotta take the time to care for yourself now." Jungkook started to feed him the soup. Liquid diet, Jin had described to him, so that he didn't have to chew anything, just in case.

Jimin carefully moved his hand to Jungkook's once the spoon was back in the bowl. "I'm here because of you. My effort would've been useless if you weren't there."

"Oh no, your effort got you to us. I could've been anyone...I was just closest. Our pack is a whole unit."

Jimin grabbed the spoon, then put Jungkook's hand over his own, so it was like he was guiding him. "You were there though. So my effort wasn't useless." He blushed a little at that, having Jungkook's hand guide the food to his mouth.

Jungkook liked having Jimin's small hands in his own. He was being fed well by the contact, unable to hide his smile. "Thank you. Was I heroic?"

"Oh absolutely. A knight in shinning armor. Well." Jimin thought about it, a smile almost permanent on his face. "Not quite shinning. You've got a beautiful coat. I-" Jimin stopped, deciding against whatever he was going to say and making Jungkook feed him more.

"Was...were you going to finish that?" Jungkook raised an eyebrow, curious at this point.

"Well, I just realized I haven't shifted in years."

"Woah, really?" Jungkook was surprised. "We- then you'll have to go on our next run. Usually we split off in designations, but I think we could make an exception for you. Ah! Even better." Jungkook fed him more. "I'll introduce you to my friends. That way you'll have some people to run with as well."

"I- I would love to meet more people. But maybe when...I'm looking better." Jimin gave him a much weaker smile, a much more insecure one.

This set Jungkook's wolf off. "You look so lovely though. No matter the marks on your body, you're already looking better. Healthier, I mean." Jungkook felt Jimin's hand tighten. "I mean it. This kind of care...it'll only take a month for you to get on your feet. And then you'll have a nice warm winter, and then you'll get to explore your options here." Jungkook smiled softly. "You'll find yourself doing much better here."

"Jungkook, what if I don't stay?" Jimin spoke quietly, looking almost apologetic.

"Then you don't stay. That's always an option too. But..."

Make him stay. Mine.

"But I think you should see your options here first." Jungkook finished his statement. "There's so much here. A lot of things to do. A lot of people to meet." A lot of people to love.

"I'll definitely see everything here first." Jimin looked a little concerned. "I promise you that."

"Thank you. I promise I'll show you everything. We've got a good place to be. We made sure it's safe for everyone, made sure it's safe for wolves, and made sure it's fun. Safety is first, and second." Jungkook laughed a little. "Having fun is third. So if you're worried about anything...it should be about your growing popularity."

"Oh?" This seemed to pique his interest. "Why?..."

"It's not every day we take in a stray, let alone just one stray." Jungkook made Jimin finish his food as he talked to him. "We usually have couples come in, trying to find somewhere for their child to be safe. Or people have heard we take in foreigners and are just trying for a new life. But runaways...that's much more rare." Jungkook smiled, happy to see Jimin interested. "And talk goes fast around here, despite it's size. Everyone's wondering about you."

"Wow. That's...new alright." Jimin laughed a little. "It makes sense, but...I'm not used to any of this."

"Of course not. It's already uncommon for someone to be in the hospital." Jungkook shrugged, setting the bowl back on the tray and getting him a glass of water. "We're a good place to be. Besides the gossip." Jungkook wanted him to stay. He really did. "And once you know some more people...I'm sure you'll feel more welcomed."

"I'm sure too." Jimin spoke quietly. "I just...don't want people to worry or treat me different than anyone else..."

"They won't. They just have to meet you first." Jungkook waited a moment before speaking again. "After today. I'll slowly introduce you to people after today." 

"I'm going to be busy, aren't I..." Jimin laughed a little, but seemed apprehensive.

Jungkook put a hand over Jimin's hand. "I promise you I'll make sure it's not overwhelming. I'll be here if you need me. I'm always a call away." He took his hand away, not exactly wanting to lead Jimin on. They'd already decided they wouldn't mate.

His wolf wasn't too happy about that, but Jungkook ignored it. He was surprised when Jimin slowly reached out to touch Jungkook's hand. "I don't mind if you need contact." Jimin spoke softly.

Jungkook blushed deeply, his cheeks heating up to a nice red. "J-Jimin."

"Why's that?...why are you blushing?" Jimin laughed quietly.

"I-" Jungkook moved his hand away, running it through his hair. "I'm sorry, I just...I'm- I shouldn't." Jungkook felt extremely embarrassed. "I shouldn't get used to you, I'm sorry."

Jimin pouted, Jungkook looking away as his cheeks heated up even more. He felt like he was burning. "But it's fine. I don't mind it. And besides, you were fine with it this morning..." he seemed a little upset, making Jungkook twitch.

Closer! He wants you closer!

Jungkook kept his wolf in check, ignoring it and not looking at Jimin. "I...my wolf is a funny thing, isn't it." Jungkook laughed awkwardly, standing up. "He's way more willing to be forward than I am."

Before Jungkook could get far, Jimin moved forward and grabbed his hand. "Jungkook. It's okay to be forward. I don't mind."

"Jimin-"

"If I'm forward too, would that be better?" Jimin looked at him with wide eyes.

"Jimin?" Jungkook was surprised by the words, almost stunning him. "What...do you mean?"

"Well- well. If we're keeping with the no strings attached...then it's fine. Whatever happens, it's fine, right?" Jimin tugged Jungkook back to him a little. "Is that going to be a problem?"

"Jimin." Jungkook audibly swallowed his spit. "I- I don't know if I should...give in to that. I might go too far. If you're too lenient...I might just...go too far. I can't do that to you." Jungkook tried to pry his hand away. "Please."

Jimin pouted again. "Jungkook-" He wasn't able to finish his words though, as Seokjin knocked on the door and waited. Jimin didn't let go of his hand, but Jungkook moved his hand away.

Jin came in. "You guys done here?"

"Yep." Jungkook smiled at him. "I'll take it back, then see if I can help around."

"Ahhh, I see." Seokjin had missed the atmosphere, smiling at Jungkook before checking the machines again. "You don't want to be here for his bath?"

"Hyung." Jungkook blushed again. He shook his head, getting the tray and heading to the door. "You- never mind, I'll just go." Jungkook left in his embarrassment, not looking back.

If Jimin gave him one more reason to care for him, then he might just blow a fuse.

He went to the kitchen, stuck in his head. "Fuck...no strings attached? What the fuck am I even saying?" Why did he even offer that? He cleaned the dishes quite angrily as he thought.

He didn't even hear Namjoon come in, until he cleared his throat.

"Oh! Fuck, sorry hyung! I didn't even notice you came in." Jungkook finished cleaning the dishes, setting them aside to dry for the time being. "Jin hyung told me to tell you to wait till he comes out."

"Jungkook, are you okay?" Namjoon seemed to ignore all the business parts of their relationship. "Jungkook, really, I haven't seen you in months, tell me how you're doing first?" Namjoon looked at him in concern.

Jungkook was shocked, then shook it off, hugging Namjoon. "I'm sorry hyung, I'm just so out of it right now."

"You've been so busy...why're you staying here again?" Namjoon hugged him back, Jungkook relaxing into his arms.

"I'm sure you heard about our new pack member. He was injured so he's here, but dad made me stay to care for him since I was the one who allowed him into the pack."

"Ah. First pack member of yours, I see." Namjoon pulled away, holding his shoulders. "Why are you stressed?"

Jungkook looked up at him with doe eyes. "I...I really like him." He slowly looked down, wishing he was drying the dishes. "I...now you can't tell dad, but...my wolf spoke to me. And it wants him. But I already told him I won't mate, and he said the same thing. So...I'm helping him here, and then I'm going back to my normal days." He explained, feeling like Namjoon was going to give him a lecture.

Instead, he gave him a sad look. Even worse. "Jungkook...don't ignore yourself. Your wolf is just another part of you. The fact that he spoke at all is important. If he's the one...he's the one." He then smiled. "I knew it was Jin. And your mom knew it was your dad."

"I'm not putting him through anything more than what he's already been through. He isn't here to find a mate, and I'm not here to put him through the stress of running a growing pack." Jungkook got out of Namjoon's grip, brushing his hands off. "Now if you'll excuse me, I need to do some rounds."

Jungkook walked off, going to the other patients and taking their breakfast plates, and checking up on them. Visitors were always appreciated.

He went to clean them, then got some clean sheets for Jimin's bed, knocking on the door and waiting for an answer.

"Come in!" Seokjin called him in, so Jungkook went in.

"Namjoon is here." Jungkook glanced at the two, Seokjin helping Jimin finish getting dressed. He started to change the sheets.

"Oh perfect. How's he doing?"

"He seemed uh, pretty good." Jungkook hadn't even asked. He felt bad for not asking.

"Ahhh, you must feel over worked already." Jin tsk'd, guiding Jimin back to the bed. "I'll go get him, then he'll get you started Jimin." He gave him a smile then headed out.

Jungkook stood awkwardly at the end of the bed, his arms crossed. He didn't want to look at Jimin right now, knowing that his wolf would go insane at the sight of his omega in his clothes for the first time.

"Jungkook, I wasn't finished saying what I wanted to say earlier."

"Jimin, I'm glad you're okay with touch, but that's a lot for me. I don't want to accidentally mark you as mine in any way." Jungkook cut him off, wanting the conversation to end.

"Then what the fuck is this? These are your clothes, that's something." Jimin was definitely looking at him, but Jungkook still looked away.

"I'll get you new clothes then." Jungkook huffed.

"I don't want new clothes."

"You also don't want to mate. I'll get you new clothes. Mine probably don't fit you anyways."

"You don't know that. You aren't looking." He was starting to sound more and more upset, making Jungkook feel the same.

"I know that I'm much larger than you. I don't need to look to know that. I'll bring you new clothes, you don't need to worry."

"I don't want new clothes. These are nice."

"I'll get you nice new clothes then."

"Look at me goddamn it!" Jimin finally yelled at him, Jungkook immediately looking at him. Fuck he was weak, of course any demand of Jimin's would be carried through.

Jungkook stared at him, his wolf bursting inside him at the sight of his omega in his clothes. Jungkook blushed, but glared. "I'm looking. Now what?"

"Come here." Jimin patted the bed beside him, Jungkook taking a step forward immediately, then stopping himself with much effort.

"Jimin, you're really testing my-"

"Sit." Jimin pet the bed again, Jungkook poking his cheek with his tongue and sitting next to him. Jimin put a hand on his thigh. "I don't want to mate. I barely know you. But I'm here on a mission, okay? There's others like me. That's why I don't want to mate you."

"What do you mean?" Jungkook looked at him in confusion.

"I mean...no strings attached. That's okay for now because I'm not staying here forever. Once I'm healthy, I'm going back and helping free my friends." Jimin was determined, making Jungkook worry.

"Then- then I'll help you."

"I...don't want to drag you into anything."

"Jimin, your safety is all I care about." Jungkook stared at Jimin's hand on his thigh. "So if you need help with anything, I'm more than willing to help. There's others like you? Then we'll help them after winter. As much as I'd love to get them out of that hellhole now...I have to put my pack first. And that includes you."

"Oh. You- you really don't have to."

"Maybe we can talk more tonight." Jungkook pursed his lips for a moment. "Although...I do stand by my statement." He lifted Jimin's hand off his thigh. "Contact is much too forward for me right now."

"But-"

"No Jimin." Jungkook smiled a little, then stood up. "I really can't handle it like you might be able to."

"But I thought we-"

"Let's talk about it tonight then." Jungkook looked at him. "You have a busy day today."

"Then I'll have it on my conscious all day. Let me say it now." He pouted again, Jungkook staring at his lips.

"No. I'd rather take our time." Jungkook spoke quietly, unable to look at Jimin any longer. He was definitely red at this point. "So please. I can do without the contact." He laughed a little awkwardly.

"I...okay. Fine. You better stay the night though." Jimin spoke quietly.

"Of course Jimin." Jungkook smiled, glancing at him carefully. "If you need me I'm still here. I'm not leaving."

"Perfect. Then you're staying the night."

"Whatever makes you feel better. Whatever helps you sleep at night."

Jungkook stood at the foot of the bed again, waiting for Namjoon and Jin to come back in. He let the silence sit, simmer, and settle in. He had to keep their line clear, otherwise he'd give in easily.

It didn't take too long, but the atmosphere felt stiff. He felt only slightly bad, but ignored that feeling once Namjoon and Jin came in.

"Perfect! You two are ready. Jimin, this is Namjoon, he's my mate and he'll be your personal physical therapist." Jin smiled at him, happy his husband was home.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Jimin, I'm Kim Namjoon, but please, Namjoon is fine. I'll be checking over you body, don't worry, just your muscles, and then we'll go from there. Tell me if anything I do makes you uncomfortable. I'm sure Jungkook will know as well." He was professional, but kind. Jungkook always loved that about him.

"Oh...a-alright." Jimin looked like he was analyzing him, and Jungkook felt a ping. He must do that often.

"I've put my full trust into Namjoon, so you don't have a thing to worry about Jimin. Now I've got a job to do, but, holler if you need me." Jin grinned, shot Jungkook a look, then blew Namjoon a kiss and left.

Namjoon smiled softly to himself before centering his attention onto Jimin. "Do you mind if I check your leg muscles?"

"N-no, I don't mind." Jimin sat on the edge of the bed with a little concern.

Jungkook took a step closer, then stopped. He wanted to make Jimin comfortable.

"Alright." Namjoon knelt onto the floor, touching Jimin's legs very carefully, barely squeezing the muscles to see how they reacted, and how weak they were. He would jot down the results, then move on to another muscle. He did the same with the other leg. "May I check your arms?"

"Sure." Jimin felt a little more comfortable knowing his hands were soft and kind. He wasn't used to that yet.

Namjoon stood up and checked his arms, writing down what he needed. "May I check your chest and back?"

Jimin nodded. Namjoon carefully checked his chest and back, writing things down, then got what he needed out of his bag.

He continued a typical checkup after that, checking Jimin's reflexes, his eyes, his blood pressure, and waiting to check his weight.

"Alright. We're going to start on, mm, level one. I've brought a couple things for you to chose from to help you walk, of course, with the help of Jungkook." Namjoon smiled a little. "They're different sorts of crutches. It seems to me that, in the simplest way to say it, your legs gave out after your effort to come here. Either from the cold or lack of nutrients, I'm unsure, but we just need to warm them up again. Get those muscles working again. I'd say you only need a couple of weeks, maybe a month of this and you'll be okay. You're not doing too badly."

"Only a month?" Jimin smiled.

"If you keep up a good pace, then yes."

"That's awesome!" Jimin sounded excited.

"Right. Just about time for Jungkook to leave, so the timing will be very nice." Jungkook felt a pang of pain as Namjoon brought out a couple things from outside the room, one pair of crutches, a wheelchair, and a walker. "The crutches and wheelchair are more for when you want to relax your legs but can still work on your upper muscles. These can be on your own time, so I'll leave them to you." He set them aside, giving Jimin the walker.

"Ah...where will...we walk?" Jimin gripped the walker, feeling a little anxious.

Jungkook inched closer to him.

"Around this place. You might as well get used to it, and it'll be good for you to meet some people as well." Namjoon smiled at him. "I know you trust Jungkook more than me, so I'll have him be your support, okay? I'll be right there too though."

"Ah, yeah. He's been a great comfort to me." Jimin smiled at Jungkook, making him take another cautious step forward.

"Would you like to get started?" Namjoon moved Jungkook closer.

"Yes." Jimin wanted to heal. He needed to, and that determination showed on his face. Jimin used his arm strength to stand, feeling his legs shake under his weight, just barely. "Oh god."

Jungkook desperately wanted to help, but he didn't know how.

Namjoon slowly walked to the door, Jimin and Jungkook following. Then, he talked. About anything and everything, to keep Jimin's mind on something else most likely, while Jungkook waved to passerby's. Jimin would pause and talk to people who walked around and wanted to meet him, while Jungkook helped to make him feel comfortable with them.

Jungkook felt a little useless, but he kept the conversation going with Namjoon and Jimin while being Jimin's support. Only twice did Jimin ask Jungkook to help, needing to lean on him to give himself a break, and of course Jungkook was there to help him.

The walk back was definitely more effort.

"Jimin, you did absolutely amazing and I'm very proud of you." Namjoon smiled at him, handing him a glass of water. "Tomorrow will be a break, so please take care of yourself. Not only am I proud of your progress, but I'm very happy to have met you."

"It was nice to meet you too. Thank you. Really. I mean it from the bottom of my heart, thank you." Jimin smiled back at Namjoon, then at Jungkook. "One month, hm?"

"Sure thing. But don't try and push yourself. Otherwise you won't give your muscles the time they need to heal." Namjoon smiled happily. "I'll be back in a couple days, okay? Jin will keep you updated on when I'll work with you, but I'm going to be around here as well."

"Thank you."

"Of course Jimin. We all want you to be healthy and well." Namjoon said his goodbyes, and left Jungkook with Jimin.

Jungkook felt a little awkward, but kept his mouth shut. He didn't want to talk yet, but he could tell Jimin was looking at him.

"Jungkook..."

"After dinner." Jungkook spoke quietly, trying to push their talk even later. "Please."

"Jungkook, will you get me more pillows?" Jimin asked nicely, and Jungkook immediately sprung to life.

"Of course!" Any act of service was appreciated, and Jungkook happily got him pillows. He helped him rearrange the pillows for his back. "Better?"

"Mmmm, my legs definitely hurt." Jimin whined a little, but wasn't complaining. "I should've gone slower."

"Then your breaks will be good." Jungkook sat on the edge of the bed. "I'll make sure you rest well."

"Oh yeah?" Jimin raised an eyebrow, smiling at him. "How so?"

"Mmm, I'm sure I'll find a way. Besides, you probably won't be moving too much. Do your legs hurt a lot?"

"Mmmm." Jimin smiled a little at him. "It's okay. They're just a little sore."

"Need a massage? I think- I think I could do that." Jungkook blushed a little, his cheeks turning pink.

"Ohhh~ but that's contact, isn't it?" Jimin teased him. "So why is that fine?"

"I just- well, if it's going to make you feel better, then I'll be willing to do it." Jungkook shrugged. "I want you to be comfortable."

"Well, I'm comfortable with you touching me."

Jungkook blushed more at his words. "J-Jimin..."

"Not like that Jungkook." Jimin glared at him, but Jungkook could see a slight blush.

"S-sorry." Jungkook looked away. "I'm just...well, I guess it's for tonight, isn't it?"

"We have some time, don't we?"

"I was going to help Jin make dinner tonight." Jungkook spoke quietly. "B-besides, maybe we can wait another night. We've got loads of time." Jungkook stood up, brushing off his clothes. "I'm gunna go check up on him-"

"Jungkook, sit. We've got time." Jimin patted the bed, wanting Jungkook closer.

Closer! Get closer, touch him. Closer.

Jungkook shook his head. "I shouldn't. I really shouldn't I'm so sorry for offering anything." He ruffled his own hair, walking to the door. "I- I'll go make dinner, sorry." Jungkook rushed out, making his way to the kitchen before Jimin could call him back and make him stay.

God he was really stupid. He really was. It'd been only two days and his wolf was going insane.

He got to the kitchen and saw Jin and Namjoon there.

"Oh! Hyung, I thought you were leaving?"

"Hm? Oh Jungkook! Of course I'm staying the night, Jin's been so busy and I've been so busy. Besides, Jungkook, you've got bigger things to worry about. Jin just told me all about your situation with Jimin. Are you okay?"

"Ahhh, hyung, why would you tell him?" Jungkook whined, sighing deeply.

"I tell him everything. Get some plates?" Jin didn't even give him a glance.

Jungkook did get them. "Hyung...I'm fine." He spoke to Namjoon, setting down the plates for Jin. "I'll be fine."

"Jungkook, that's a more serious issue than you're thinking it'll be. You know what'll happen-"

"I know! I know, okay!?" Jungkook raised his voice, then felt terrible for doing that after seeing their reactions. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry." He sighed heavily, looking down. "Sorry, I should go for a walk, cool my head."

"It's okay Jungkook." Jin spoke softly. "You're going through a lot, I'm sure. Go for a walk, I'll take care of Jimin, okay?"

Jungkook's wolf felt possessive at that. Do it yourself! Care for him! Jungkook ignored it and nodded at Jin. "Thanks. I...I'm sorry." Jungkook left the kitchen, heading outside and immediately feeling the cold. Maybe he needed to be away from Jimin for a minute, then maybe his wolf would shut the fuck up.

He trudged through the growing snow, walking around the area to clear his mind. He hated it.

Maybe he could limit his time with Jimin, or maybe he could just...confess. Well, that wasn't going to happen. Maybe he could just...keep this up. But if he was becoming so harsh already...then he definitely needed to stay by Jimin.

He walked a little further away, ignoring the cold a bit. He'd get warm when he went back anyways.

He had his head down, trying to clear it while also trying to ignore his problems. Actually, he wasn't trying to do anything except get out of his head and ignore his wolf. He wanted to ignore everything.

He didn't literally mean to walk into Taehyung though. "Woah there Jungkook! You okay?" He held his shoulders so they wouldn't walk into each other.

"Huh? Oh I'm sorry hyung, I'm just- I'm just a little out of it. That's all." Jungkook laughed in embarrassment. "Sorry for not looking."

"Are you good? I thought- well, everyone's been saying- aren't you supposed to be with the new guy?" Taehyung seemed slightly embarrassed to hear the talk of the town, but also how could you miss it? A new pack member was always exciting.

"I- well, I wouldn't say good, but I'm not doing bad. So fine."

"You're out in the snow and pacing, so I'm not sure if that's doing fine." Taehyung eyed him. "Tell me what's up?"

"I...I'm not sure if I have much time right now. I've gotta head back before Jimin sleeps." Jungkook tried to weasel his way out of it.

"Jungkook...come on. You should say what you need to say." Taehyung kept his hand on his shoulder, walking him back to the hospital.

"Aw, hyung, I don't wanna pull you away from what you were doing."

"I just finished my rounds, everyone's doing good on food."

"That's good to hear." Jungkook sighed. "Hunting seasons soon though...so that'll be a nice boost for everyone. Work, but...food."

"We've got a good harvest this year, so we're doing good. Don't worry." Taehyung led him to the stairs, sitting down on them and bringing Jungkook down with him. They were under the roof, but it was still cold. It seemed to settle into Jungkook's bones now, as he tried to talk about what was on his mind.

"I.." Jungkook sighed heavily. "Hyung, I should probably-"

"Get it off your chest." He gave Jungkook's knee a pat, nudging him with his shoulder.

Jungkook sighed heavily. "I think my wolf is acting up. I really connected with Jimin. He made my wolf wake up...but now it's...demanding me to do things. And Jimin already told me he wasn't looking for a mate, and I mean, neither am I, but it's still so...loud." Jungkook looked at the snow on the ground, glaring. "And I've been ignoring it mostly, but it doesn't like that. Jin and Namjoon have both been reminding me of what will happen if I don't tell him but...I can't force him into anything. And I won't force him into anything."

"Oh...is your wolf...acting up in an aggressive way?"

"It could be. I snapped at the two of them today." Jungkook frowned, disappointed in himself. "And I'm not sure why I did."

"Then maybe they're right." Taehyung spoke kindly, but serious. "Besides...unreciprocated wolf awakenings aren't common. I'd give a good guess that he's comfortable with you too."

"Well...if he wanted to mate me, I wouldn't have a problem. Not at all. But...I'd be dragging him into a whole new world that he hasn't had time to get accustomed to. It's unfair to him. So I won't do it."

"How long can you possibly wait? How long can your wolf wait?"

Jungkook kept his eyes glued to the snow. "I'll wait for as long as Jimin needs. Even if that's forever."

No! Closer! Be closer!

Jungkook's wolf yelled at him. "Hyung, I should head back in."

"One more thing Jungkook. What will you do if you do go primal?"

Jungkook finally heard the words, grimacing. "I won't."

"Jungkook. If you do?"

"I'll...fucking find somewhere to hide for the time being. I'll find one of you and beg you to tie me down, I don't care. I won't hurt him, and I'm not going to force him into anything." Jungkook suppressed his wolf again.

Mine! Make him mine!

"You're a strong wolf Jungkook...I don't know if tying you down would be enough..."

"You'll find a way. I'm sure."

"Think about it more. Don't put it on us to take care of you. That's a bit of a push and...we haven't seen it in years. I don't think our pack would handle it well...knowing how much they already think you're intense." Taehyung sounded a bit apologetic. "Sorry for that. I know I look intense too."

"A great combo, hm." Jungkook sighed. "But Jimin's so soft and kind...he'd make people soften around me too..."

Taehyung laughed. "Sick of being seen as intense?"

"I'm a pure black wolf. Of course they'd think I'm scary." Jungkook groaned. "How am I ever going to be a good leader if everyone's scared of me?"

"You'll figure it out. But for now...don't go primal."

"I won't. I don't want to scare him like that."

"Good. Now get inside, you're freezing your ass off."

"I was going to-"

"Don't get me started." Taehyung cut him off easily. "I wanna meet him."

"Come by tomorrow?"

"How about next week?"

"Sure." Jungkook shrugged and got up, helping Taehyung up as well. "I'll tell him."

"Perfect. Hoseok wants to as well."

"Ah, I'll ask him if he's okay with it."

"Perfect. See ya." Taehyung walked off, waving to him.

Jungkook waved back, then went inside.

His head was still full of the dangerous word.

Primal.

Jungkook didn't want to...he didn't want it to go that far. Primal. Jungkook shook his head, but it didn't leave his mind.

Primal.

When a person ignored their wolf...they became primal. They would become rough, harsh, and aggressive, stopping at nothing to get what they wanted. And if they wanted a mate...then it wasn't going to be good. A forceful mating process would be absolutely terrifying for both people, and Jungkook didn't want that. He wanted Jimin to understand he wanted him as his mate, but he didn't want to force him into anything.

If Jungkook was scared of anything...it would be going primal.

He walked to Jimin's room, knocking and waiting to be let in.

Seokjin opened the door, pushing the dishes at him. "Give me a minute with him, I just finished feeding him."

"Oh- uh, okay." Jungkook was surprised by the uninviting atmosphere, taking the dishes, and being shut out. He went to the kitchen to clean and dry the dishes given to him.

He was still stuck in his head though.

Mine.

It was all he could think of.

And it was starting to scare him. Jungkook didn't know how to actually work with his wolf...it'd been silent his whole life, and now that it was so suddenly awake, Jungkook didn't know what to do. Most people's wolves were part of their lives when they were young, learning how to work with it, how to listen and care for it, but mostly, how to keep it a part of you and not something separate.

Jungkook's wolf was extremely separated from him. It wasn't Jungkook, it was Jungkook and his wolf. And it was starting to become a problem.

Jungkook finished drying the dishes, his mind full but numb. Ignoring his wolf was a bad idea, but listening to it was going to make Jimin uncomfortable. The best he could do was ignore it and have Jimin give him things to do. But if he got close to losing it...he'd leave.

That's the most he could do for Jimin.

Seokjin touched his shoulder gently. "Jungkook? You good there?"

"Huh?" Jungkook snapped out of it. "Oh I'm sorry, I was a bit out of it."

"Are you okay?" Seokjin looked at him in concern.

"I'm fine. Is- should I head to Jimin's room?..."

"Yeah. As long as you're okay...? What- are you okay?" Seokjin kept his hand on Jungkook's shoulder.

"I'm fine hyung. What did you two talk about?" Jungkook brushed his hand off. "Unless I can't know, that's okay."

"Oh it was nothing. Just a little something." He smiled. "Don't ignore it Jungkook." Seokjin sighed heavily. "I'm going to bed, Namjoon is staying the month. So if you need us...we'll be here, okay?" He gave him another concerned glance before looking away.

"Yeah, no one wants to see it happen." Jungkook sighed and started to walk. "Goodnight hyung."

"Goodnight Jungkook."

Jungkook made his way to Jimin's room, standing in front of the door...before heading to his own room, getting a change of clothes and washing up. He was scared.

What if he was going to become possessive? He didn't want that. What if he became aggressive or controlling? He didn't want that, not at all. He just wanted to protect Jimin...

He finished cleaning up, going to Jimin's door and knocking.

"Come in!" Jimin sounded a bit chipper, and Jungkook entered.

"Hey. How was dinner?" Jungkook grabbed the back of the chair by Jimin's bed, debating where to be.

"It was nice. How was...your little walk?" Jimin looked at him, scrunching his nose. "Sit on the bed." Jimin patted the bed next to him.

"It was really cold." Jungkook smiled a little. "But it was nice. I got to see one of my friends. He'd love to meet you next week."

"Ah...I'm sure those who you're friends with will be nice to be with." Jimin smiled. "Sit next to me." Jimin patted the bed again.

"Jimin, please." Jungkook looked at him, almost pained. "Let me keep my distance. I just want to serve you. Make sure you're safe and cared for. But I can't...contact would just, push me over the edge."

"Sit." Jimin kept his smile, but it was definitely less of a request and more and a demand.

Jungkook sat.

Jimin put his hand on Jungkook's thigh. "We can start small then."

"Jimin..."

"I want to explain myself. If you're willing to listen." Jimin scrunched his nose again. "Okay wait, you smell like someone else." Jimin shook his head. "Why's that?"

"Hm? Oh, I bumped into my friend." Jungkook felt Jimin's hand tighten on his thigh. "Is- I changed my clothes, I should smell like me?" Jungkook laughed a little.

"Mm, it's feint, that's all." Jimin mumbled. "Sorry, I just- I haven't met many people, maybe it's just too much." Jimin seemed a little flushed, but didn't let go of Jungkook's thigh.

"It's okay. I get it." Jungkook smiled at him. "Maybe you just need to lie dow. You know...rest yourself after a rough day."

"You're trying to ignore the conversation."

"I am." Jungkook spoke quietly. "I feel like if you share, I do as well."

"And...you don't want to share?"

"No. I don't." Jungkook stared at Jimin's hand on his thigh. "I've got a lot...that would need explaining. And it's all just not fair to you. Seokjin, Namjoon, my friends...they're all easy people to learn. They don't have problems."

"Jungkook, I'm not sure what you're trying to tell me."

"I just mean that...the things I'd share are things you wouldn't want to hear. So yes, I'm trying to avoid the conversation."

"You don't have to share." Jimin sighed. "I just need to apologize and explain."

"You don't have to do anything either. No ones making you." Jungkook carefully took Jimin's hand off of him, but Jimin grabbed his hand. "Jimin..." Jungkook looked up at him, his head still hung though.

"Please. I want to." Jimin kept his grip, looking at Jungkook with eagerness. "I want to explain it. I think you'll want to hear it."

Jungkook felt a blush creep onto his cheeks. "I...okay."

"I told you I'm a runaway. But, there's others like me that can't run away. And I need to help them. Once I'm healed, once I'm better, I'm going back." Jimin spoke with courage, obviously afraid of going back, but his mind made up.

"Wait, Jimin, that's not safe at all!" Jungkook shook his head. "No way. I won't allow it."

"I can leave the pack whenever I'd like...so if you're going to stop me, I'll leave. I'm sorry that's quite awful to say...but I'll do anything to help them. They weren't in as much trouble as I always was, but still, they're hungry and cold, and used. I couldn't handle it, and I know they just suck it up. So after this...I'm going to help them."

"Tell me you have a plan at least...I'll- I'll help you. Gather our hunters and help you, you know I'm- I'm in charge of them." Jungkook now gripped Jimin's hand with both of his own, his attention on Jimin. "Please, I can't have you getting hurt. Not again. Not while you're here with me."

"Jungkook, I can't ask that of you."

"I'm giving myself to you. My services and all." Jungkook spoke, then was shocked. Obviously, his wolf was seeping into this conversation. "So please...if you need something, I'll provide it."

Jimin looked equally shocked. "You know, Seokjin said you'd say that. But I have to ask." He looked at their hands. "Is it for me? Or do you care that people are safe?"

"Both. But it's for you. I- I can't stand that you're hurt and pained...and I'd never stand that for anyone either." Jungkook stared at Jimin, trying to read him.

"Thank you...that means a lot to me. You don't even know me at all."

"But I will." Jungkook was too eager, pulling it back. "I mean, of course I will. If- since I'll be here for your recovery."

Jimin smiled. "Of course. So...what did you want to tell me?"

Jungkook blinked, then let go of his hands. "Oh- oh um, well, it's nothing important. It can wait." He ran a hand through his hair anxiously.

"I've got time. Besides...I want to learn more about you." Jimin settled into his spot.

"No no, it's okay." Jungkook wanted to leave, as his wolf begged him to stay.

"Jungkook, it's okay to stay. Besides I thought...you said no strings attached?"

"I did." Jungkook spoke weakly. "And I stand by that."

Idiot! Mate him!

Jungkook looked away from Jimin, glaring at the ground. "I just...I wish I was someone else. I wish I was just a normal guy, you know? I wouldn't have problems if I was normal."

"Jungkook, we all have our problems."

"You don't have to live up to your fathers expectations of being mated in a month." Jungkook spoke quietly. "I have to enter...the ceremony this year. I'm being forced to, but still."

"Ceremony?" Jimin carefully took Jungkook's hand again. "What kind of ceremony?"

"Oh. Um, we have a mating ceremony right before hunting season. So that the hunters can kinda show off and bring their new mate an offering of such. It's why we're good at what we do...we're sort of prideful."

"Then how are you the leader of the hunters?" Jimin cocked his head.

"I'm a good hunter..." Jungkook pursed his lips. "That's another story for another night, okay?"

"I see." Jimin gave him a bit of a concerned look. "Then...explain the ceremony? Maybe I'll understand you better."

"Okay, well, the mating ceremony is for the pack to come together and see if anyone is interested in one another. So, the alphas or betas will present themselves, and then the omegas will choose who they accept pretty much. We give the final choice to the omegas cause we value their decisions more." Jungkook shrugged. "They tend to be more empathetic, so we trust their judgement to be the best for everyone."

"Wow! That's so cool. So I'd get the final decision?"

Jungkook nodded. "You would. No ones going to force an omega to do anything. And if they do, it's kind of a crime here. We like to keep everyone on even grounds. But we don't really want omega hunters, we'd rather them be safe and warm. Our alphas can endure the cold much better too."

"Good to know your pack isn't sexist." Jimin smiled, his hand tightening around Jungkook's. "It almost seems too good to be true."

"Well, it gets better too. The ceremony is very fun to view from the outside. There's lots of flowers and lots of gifts."

"Gifts?" This seemed to pique Jimin's interest.

"Sure. Loads of gifts. Alphas and betas present themselves with a gift they've either had as a child or long time, or a tooth or something from an animal they've fought off. Either something sentimental or a show of protection. You know? I've heard a lot of people give a cleaned tooth from an animal to show they're strong enough to protect their mate. Just a little...I can keep you safe, here's proof. I dunno, I like it." Jungkook became a little embarrassed. He always imagined giving a tooth to his mate, along with other gifts.

"I like giving gifts. Do your omegas give gifts too?"

"They can. It's not typical, but I see it every year so yeah. What would you want to give?"

"I dunno, but something. I like giving."

"Mmm, I'm not surprised. You're kind." Jungkook smiled at him.

Jimin smiled back. "What would you want to give? I mean- well, you're going to have to give something, aren't you?..." Jimin deflated a little.

"Yeah. I'll find a way out of it though, don't worry about me." Jungkook casually flirted. "I always have."

"I- I see." Jimin flushed pink, making Jungkook chuckle.

"I'll think of something. Even if I have to be in it, I promise I'll be declined. I've always declined everyone so...nothing will change."

"What if you get forced?"

"My dad would never do that. He's pushy, but not forceful, thank fuck. I've learned that from him."

Not forceful. Jungkook held onto those words as his wolf yelled at him. Mate him!

"He's a good guy. It's so odd to me, to trust everyone so quickly, but I know you all mean what you say."

"You've been mistreated your whole life...it makes sense that you'd be cautious. But I'm glad you've given us a chance. I'm glad our word got out that we're a safe place for everyone trying for a second chance."

"I'm glad I heard that you existed. The Jeon pack. Far in the west, right by the mountain and the ocean. What a title, hm?" Jimin teased him.

"Ah, it's fancier than it sounds. All it really means is our winters are colder because of the costal breeze."

"Well...thank you for sharing. I think we've both got our things settled." Jimin grinned at him, Jungkook nodding.

He really didn't tell Jimin anything.

"Need me in the room for the night? Otherwise I'll head back." Jungkook nodded his head to the door.

"I'll try to sleep tonight..."

"Don't be afraid to knock, okay? I'll be here." Jungkook stood up, tucking Jimin into bed. "I'll be here right away."

"Thank you Jungkook."

"Of course. Sleep well."

"Goodnight Jungkook." He nearly whispered the words, almost like he was afraid to sleep.

"Goodnight Jimin." Jungkook spoke quietly, mirroring Jimin. He turned off the light, then went to his room.

____

Jungkook thought he got nearly two hours of sleep before he was woken up by Jimin's fear. Well, it was more like, his wolf knew Jimin was uncomfortable. He could feel it within him, and Jungkook got up, getting a shirt on and waiting for Jimin's knock.

He wouldn't go unless he knocked. He wasn't going to intrude.

Once again...he gave the quietest knock he'd ever heard, like he was ashamed, or didn't want Jungkook to be annoyed.

Jungkook hurried over, entering the room without a knock.

"I'm sorry Jungkook-"

"Shush, it's okay." Jungkook mumbled, still tired and cold. Winter was really settling in. "Need a wolf to protect you from the bad shadows? You know I'll get them." Jungkook tried to lighten the mood. "Nothing stands a change against me."

"Is that why you're the lead hunter?"

"Ahhh, are you wondering about that?"

"I am." Jimin spoke quietly, obviously trying to change the subject from his nightmare. Jungkook could still feel his fear.

"Mmm..." Jungkook contemplated, then sat on the end of Jimin's bed. "Fine. You can have a story time."

"Perfect." Jimin settled in again, careful to have his feet not in Jungkook's way.

"When I was young, my dad would take me on their hunting trips. We often take pups on less dangerous hunts, to try and get them used to it and not fear the woods. We're a big pack, so they're very safe with us." Jungkook reassured, knowing that the idea of pups hunting was a little outrageous. "They don't actually hunt, they just watch. But, okay, my dad is great, but he though it would be fun to have me try and hunt. Remember, I was really young."

Jimin nodded, Jungkook hoping he was starting to get tired again.

"So he was pushing me towards a rabbit, telling me to be quiet, showing me how it's done, and a deer comes out in the clearing. So my dad changed his mind, saying I should get the deer instead. I didn't know any better, so I followed him. We inched on the deer, and when we were going to pounce, a group of coyotes came out to attack it."

"Oh- gosh, did you get hurt?" Jimin fret, making Jungkook laugh a little.

"My dad pushed me away, but the noise made the deer run, and the coyotes turned on us. Pups are known to be easy, so they thought it would be easy to get me. But...and I'm not sure why...I was completely calm." Jungkook was remembering the situation. "My dad and I fought them off, taking one home. And it was then that my dad started training me to be the leader of the hunters. I guess I just had a knack for it."

"Then...why are you still it? I feel like...a lot of people are afraid of you. That's what it seems like." Jimin shook his head. "I don't get it. You're so kind to me."

"I've been hunting since I was little, so my experience and...actions...are well known." Jungkook grimaced.

"What's that mean?"

"It means I've kept everyone safe."

"What's that mean?" Jimin wasn't taking it.

"Okay so maybe there was an incident." Jungkook gave a heavy sigh. "And maybe people won't forget about it or stop talking about it."

"What happened?" Jimin seemed interested...but Jungkook still felt bad. It wasn't a good memory.

He'd lost it for a moment, and everyone saw it.

"It was last year, and I was coming back from our hunt. People were going back to their new mates, dropping of the food at our store that deals with skins and meat, and a pack of boars came into our village. And that's rare. Boars alone are trouble, but a pack is...dangerous. I was just so tired." Jungkook shook his head. "So I quickly shifted, and I- I...it was really messy. I made sure they didn't get far, but I didn't realize how...scary it must've been to watch." Jungkook grimaced again.

"Scary?..."

"My jaw, mouth, the whole front of my body...my claws...everything was just bloody. And with the pack on the snow, it showed the red so much better. When I turned around, the hunters who were going to help were just in shock, the people who were watching were silent and I felt...like I'd built a bridge between us somehow. People joke about it but...you know. They haven't forgotten. I hear people talk sometimes about how they won't ever question why I'm in charge. But that's so...fearful. And I don't want that."

"Oh. That's...well, power isn't bad."

"But losing myself is. I can't even remember the feeling, I just remember them dead." Jungkook shook his head. "That's not a good sign."

"Well, you have yourself collected now, don't you?"

Jungkook winced. "Yeah...I do." He hoped Jimin couldn't tell he was lying.

"Then you're fine. You're learning."

"It's more than that. They still have it in the back of their minds. Not just anyone takes on a whole pack of boars."

"Then consider yourself good enough to protect your whole pack."

"It wasn't like that."

"Then make it like that."

Jungkook shook his head. "I don't think I can change peoples perspectives of me."

"I bet you can." Jimin mumbled. "You're a good person."

"Only a select few know that."

"I do. And I just met you."

"You're special." Jungkook curled up on the end of Jimin's bed. He was tired. "Need a wolf?"

"Not a scary one."

"Then I won't shift."

Jimin laughed sleepily. "You're not scary."

"Pshhh, sure I am. Rawwwwrr." Jungkook spoke sleepily, curling himself around Jimin's feet.

He gained a giggle out of Jimin. "So scaryyy, I'm frightened stiff."

"Ahaha, I thought so."

"How terrifying. A lap dog."

"Ahh, whatever. I'm much larger than a lap dog."

"Whatever."

____

Jimin woke up with Jungkook's arms around him, his nose burrowed into his neck, and facing him. It was nice, and warm, and Jimin immediately gave in. His wolf was happy, and he wasn't going to ignore it while Jungkook was asleep. The less he knew the better. And if he woke up, he knew he wasn't going to take it well, but Jimin wanted to be selfish. He wanted to keep Jungkook close to him.

He moved closer to Jungkook, pressing against him to get his scent better. He wanted it on him to keep others away. He didn't want anyone else's scent on Jungkook...whoever his friend was had a strong scent, and it was extremely different from Jungkook's. Not that it was bad, but Jungkook should smell like himself, or like Jimin instead.

Jimin liked when Jungkook was close. This close too...it was warm and bubbly, and something he hadn't had the pleasure of knowing before. He wanted to run with Jungkook, not with the pack.

He wondered when their run was. He'd have to ask Jungkook later. He really wanted to shift to his wolf, but he'd have to wait till he was healed. He couldn't even remember what he looked like as his wolf.

He couldn't even remember the last time he woke up so calm. Fuck, he couldn't even remember the last time he'd woken up nightmare free. He'd have to thank Jungkook for that when he woke up.

But for now, he was taking in the moment. Jungkook's scent was extremely comforting and...mild. It was a mix of woodsy and home, maybe something like chai, but dialed down. A softer chai scent. For Jimin, that meant he was comforting and calming, quickly becoming his favorite scent.

Maybe that's why his friends scent was so overbearing on him, since it was so strong.

Jimin was lost in thought when Jungkook stirred. "Hm? Oh fuck." Jungkook spoke quietly, immediately sitting up.

Jimin held onto him, now laying his head on Jungkook's legs. "Morning." Jimin sighed happily, hugging Jungkook's thighs.

"I- I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I must've done it in a haze last night, I thought I was at the end of your bed." Jungkook sighed, but played with Jimin's hair almost on instinct. "Did you sleep well?"

Jimin nodded, closing his eyes and taking in the feeling. Jungkook's hands were nice and kind. "I did. I might've invited you in too. I can't stand being cold, and I think you were getting there."

"Least I have a shirt on." Jungkook mumbled. "I should get up, hyung will kill me if he sees me in your bed." Jungkook yawned, definitely still sleepy.

Jimin hummed. "We'll say I made you come into bed. Besides...he knows more than anyone else that I need the support."

"Right. Support." Jungkook spoke quietly, making Jimin ponder.

He already knew Jungkook liked him, even going as far as to willingly give his services for him. But they'd agreed to not mate. So why was Jungkook upset about that? "Jungkook...tell me what's wrong?"

"It's nothing." Jungkook kept playing with Jimin's hair. "Will you let me get up?"

"Nope. You're my pillow. So tell me...what's on your mind? There's something." Jimin pressed the question, wanting Jungkook to tell him. "Why...why are you upset about not being my mate? We agreed to not. We both aren't looking for one." Jimin said it, not wanting to sugar coat it. "Stop saying it's nothing if it's something."

"It's nothing, I mean it. I want you to feel safe, and secure. That's all."

"Why are you upset then? I can tell that you are. Don't tell me you aren't." Was it anger, or was it fear though? Jimin was having trouble figuring it out. Jungkook was easy but hard to read at the same time.

"I..." Jungkook's hand stopped playing with his hair. "I want to be with you. I want you. But I can't have you, and that's taking a toll on me." He spoke quietly.

Jimin sighed. "Another...another year. Another time. After my people are safe...then I'll consider it, okay? For now...no strings attached. I can't be happy while they suffer. I can't have luxuries while they don't." Jimin explained a little, humming and wishing Jungkook would play with his hair again.

"Really? That's all?" Jungkook felt excited. Jimin could tell he was happy with that, which, made him happy as well.

"Yeah. I'd love to get to know you a little better...but...I can't deny the fact that I like you." Jimin laughed a little. "Keep playing with my hair, I like it."

Jungkook obliged. "I'd- I'd love to know you too. I want to know you well."

Jimin laughed tiredly. "I'm glad." He still felt like something else was...something was wrong. "What else is on your mind?"

"Huh?" Jungkook seemed surprised by this. "N-nothing more."

"I don't believe you." Jimin started to sit up, using Jungkook to do so. He let his hand stay on Jungkook's chest, leaning into him. "Please tell me?"

Jungkook blushed heavily, scooting back against the headboard of the bed. Jimin moved closer too, keeping his hand pressed against Jungkook's chest. "J-Jimin-"

"Please? Tell me what's on your mind?" Jimin looked at him with wide eyes, pouting.

"Jimin- I don't-" he looked away, his cheeks red. "P-please, the night alone was a lot- this is- this is too much." His voice was higher pitched now, trying to move away from Jimin.

"But Jungkook, somethings on your mind and I wanna know."

"No, it's- it's nothing-" Jungkook slipped off the bed after trying to move away from Jimin, Jimin falling with him. "Fuck-" Jimin gasped at the fall, but fell on top of Jungkook so it wasn't as rough.

Jungkook's instincts were to hold Jimin and make sure he was safe, but immediately got him off of him as soon as he could. "Are you okay?"

Jimin laughed. "I'm fine, are you? Hopefully you didn't land too hard. But still...I want to know. There's something." Jimin moved closer to Jungkook again, his muscles starting to hurt though. "Ah."

"Let- let me get you back on the bed." Jungkook tried to get up, but Jimin held him down with a single hand on his torso.

"Then you won't tell me."

"J-Jimin-" Jungkook sat up on his elbows, trying to move away, but unable to as Jimin glared at him. "Please."

"I want to know."

"I don't want to say it."

Jimin glared more, making Jungkook look away. "So there is something."

"I- I think it's best if we don't discuss it." Jungkook spoke quietly, but didn't move any further.

"Shouldn't I know if somethings bothering you?" Jimin pressed the subject. "If you get to learn about me, then I should get to learn about you." Jimin moved a little closer.

"Jimin, please." Jungkook didn't move, but he did plead. "Leave it alone. I'm not...you won't want to hear it. It's not fun, or good for the mind."

"Then don't let yourself have to deal with it all alone." Jimin tried to convince him. "Why don't you want to tell me?"

"It's just- it's too much, really. Let me get you back in bed."

"Won't you be with me today?"

"I...I will. After I help Jin out for the day."

"Then tell me then. Okay?" Jimin pouted. He really wanted to know what was on Jungkook's mind. It seemed like something serious, and he loved secrets.

"Jimin, I don't think that's a good idea either. I'll- it's not something that I should share with you." Jungkook still wouldn't look at him, his face very red.

"I want you to share it with me though. Obviously it's something you're not telling me, and that makes it all the more interesting." Jimin wanted to get closer to him, both physically and connection wise.

Closer.

It was all his wolf was really saying to him, so why deny it now if they'd slept in the same bed before?

"I- Jimin please."

"Please what?"

Jungkook looked defeated. "Please leave it...I don't want to give you more than you can chew on."

"I can handle a lot."

"You shouldn't have to. And I'm not going to force you." Jungkook spoke quietly. "You're- I'm not going to make you do anything okay?"

Jimin looked at him odd. "What do you mean by that? What wouldn't you make me do?"

"I-" Jungkook cleared his throat. "Let me get you back on the bed, before Seokjin comes in."

"Tell me Jungkook."

"I...another time. Another time." Jungkook couldn't look at him. "Please."

Mine.

Jimin sighed, his wolf talking quietly. "I want to know. But...tell me when you're comfortable.  Maybe later today?"

"Maybe." Jungkook let out a small breath, obviously squeamish. Jimin must've been close enough to make him act up. "Can I pick you up now?" Jungkook finally shifted away from Jimin.

"Yeah, alright." Jimin smiled at him. Jungkook squatted down and picked Jimin up, blankets and all, setting him down on the bed before he kissed his forehead, adjusting the blankets, and pillows, and finally, realizing what he did. Jimin looked at him in slight shock.

He stopped, frozen, his eyes wide and face pale before exploding in red. "Ah! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to-" Jungkook shook his head and backed away. "I have to go." He started to walk out of the room.

"W-wait Jungkook-"

Jungkook opened the door, moving past Seokjin with a small sorry and moving on.

"Oh! I'm-" Jin came into the room, closing the door with his leg. He set down the tray on the table beside Jimin's bed. "Did something happen?"

"Ah, that's probably my fault." Jimin laughed a little. "He's not telling me something and I might've embarrassed him." Jimin looked at the food, eager to eat.

Jin helped feed him. "Well...I can talk to him if you need me too?"

"No no, it's fine." Jimin ate happily. "He'll be back. I'll apologize then."

"You...you're really lucky, you know?" Jin smiled at him. "You've made him happier and we're all seeing a different side of him. I'm happy you've woken something inside him. He didn't have anything else going for him."

"He didn't? But he's...he's got a high position here." Jimin didn't get it. If he was that high in power, he'd do many things he wanted.

"Being the leader of the hunters...isn't exactly what he wanted. He got that position because his father wanted him to have something and after...proving himself...he got the position. Way faster than he should've too. He was really young and he didn't want that."

"Oh...what made him become the leader then? He told me of the boar incident..."

"Oh." Jin nodded, remembering. He handed Jimin a glass of water. "Well...he was about 15 or 16 I guess. He wasn't supposed to be out and about at night, but he was for his own reasons. Though, he must've gone out too far cause he got caught by another pack of wolves going out. They must've thought it would be fun to play around with him but...well...he must've been in danger because he was the only one who got out of that situation alive."

"Wait-"

"He went straight to his dad afterwards, cried about it, and had to spend a week in the hospital here to recover. He'd been hurt but...he also took out a pack of four adults. His dad praised him for being able to do it...but as a punishment for going out late and far, he made him part of the hunters. He's a skilled fighter but...the elders said he had to be a part of the hunters to learn how to control himself. Technically, he did an act of war. He's lucky he was too young."

"That's...a lot to carry."

"Yeah. My parents and my mates parents are all a part of the elders board so...I know a little more too."

Jimin lit up at that. He loved secrets. "Oh?"

"The elders wanted him in the hunters so he would be around good influences. They think he might've went primal for the moment, since when he came back he couldn't remember a thing. He was just crying and bloody. He couldn't even recall a thing until the other hunters brought in the bodies."

Jimin looked at him in confusion. "Primal?" He'd never heard of that. He hadn't heard of much really. He barely knew how to be a wolf in the first place, having not given much time to be one.

"Yeah. Do you?..." Jin looked at him in confusion for a moment before realizing he wasn't on the same page. "It's what we say when a person turns completely wolf. They become aggressive and, well, like a wolf. Skittish, harsh...full survival mode. It happens sometimes when you're backed into a corner. That's what the elders said happened to Jungkook, since he couldn't remember anything until later."

"You forget about what happens in that time period?" Jimin was astonished. This hadn't happened in either of the packs he was in. Though, he was rarely outside in the previous one.

"Well yeah. The thought process is very basic. Much like when your wolf talks to you. Usually one word, one direction. In Jungkook's case, it would be about survival. And he told you about the boar incident? I'm guessing that happened to him again."

"Oh. Is he...okay?"

"I think it's a response. A trigger. He senses danger, and his wolf reacts before he does. I know he barely remembers the boar incident. He says he does know what happened, but he didn't...see it like we did." Jin shook his head. "He's gone primal more times than he'd like to admit. And each time it's scary. He's powerful...and his wolf is eager. That's why I'm happy you're here. You've kept him in line much easier than we can."

"What do you mean by that?" Jimin didn't get it. He understood the primal thing, that made sense...but how was he special to Jungkook?

"Well...when we heard he'd run off into the woods to chase down some trespassers, we were afraid he'd...done it again. But he came back fully in control...for you. That's something none of us can do."

"So that's why he's got a name for himself..." Jimin understood a lot better now. Jungkook didn't even remember the situations, no wonder the town was more wary of him. They'd seen it while he didn't. They'd experienced the aftermath while he didn't know what'd happened in the first place. "Is...how's he working with that now?" Jimin had concerns.

"Badly." Jin sighed. "He's...got problems obviously." He cleaned the area, putting everything back on the tray. "Still hungry?"

"No no, I'm good." Jimin was still wondering if Jungkook was...okay. That wasn't exactly something you just get over.

"I'll be back then, get your bath started, and then switch with Jungkook afterwards, okay?"

"Perfect."

Jin headed out to the kitchen, setting the dishes in the sink, then finding one of the nearby nurses. "Seen Jungkook?"

"He headed outside not too long ago...said he had to clear his head or something."

"I see, thank you." Jin smiled at them then headed out, grabbing a coat first. He saw Jungkook on the steps of the hospital, hugging himself while staring at the snow in the ground.

He didn't move at the sound of the door, so Jin sat next to him. "You'll freeze out here."

"Oh fuck." Jungkook cursed quietly. "Sorry hyung." He hadn't heard him at all. "I'm having a rough morning."

"Your week has barely started." Jin eyed him. "You're not okay."

"Oh please save me the talk, I know you're a good nurse." Jungkook put his head into his hands.

"I'm talking to you as a friend. A worried friend at that." Jin put his hand on Jungkook's leg. "I mean it. You're not okay. I'd...see the elders."

Jungkook snapped his head to Jin. "You don't mean-"

"I do. After this week. You need to meet with them."

"Hyung, I'll be fine-"

"If this is the first time your wolf has talked to you after 22 years, I'm sorry to say that it's less of a wolf and more of a beast. And I'm afraid to say that it's probably always been a beast."

"Hyung you can't mean that." Jungkook looked at him with wide eyes, completely distraught. "Please, I don't want to hear it."

"You need to hear it. I've been afraid to say it but...one more time you need to "step out" is when you're heading to the elders. I'll write a doctors note." Jin patted his thigh then stood up. "There's dishes in the sink, please make your rounds and pick up the other patients dishes and clean them."

"Alright..." Jungkook bit down on his bottom lip, not wanting to cry. He had to get himself in control. He had to get it together. He didn't want another incident, and he didn't want that incident to include Jimin.

That would be his worst nightmare. Maybe he should visit the elders. His head was full, cloudy, and hazy. Yet, it was full of Jimin. It was impossible to focus on anything else except him. His scent was on his clothes, his touches were burned into his mind and he couldn't get it out. His voice, his wants...Jungkook wanted to give him everything.

More then everything. His wolf was being louder now, louder than this morning even. It was getting worse, really. He wanted to ignore it, but he didn't know how. He didn't know how to work with it. Maybe he did need to go to the elders. They'd most likely need to know his wolf had awoken, and maybe they'd help him learn how to control it.

But he had to get back in there, and ignore it. He had to ignore it.

He did his rounds, getting the dishes, cleaned them, dried them, put them away, and went to hang out with some of the patients in the building.

He'd talked to the patients, keeping them company while they recovered. He liked helping.

It wasn't until Seokjin knocked and came in that Jungkook realized the time. "Jungkook? Finally found you, you've been busy haven't you." He laughed, but Jungkook knew his tone.

"Oh, yeah, I guess so." Jungkook stood up with a smile. "Have a nice night." Jungkook said his goodnight to the patient he was with, then left with Seokjin after he said what dinner was going to be that night.

"Jimin wants you to go to his room." They walked together to the kitchen.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea."

"You can't ignore him. Or yourself. That's a problem...and you shouldn't ignore him. It's okay that you want him. And it's okay that you don't know how to deal with it all. That's why I want to send you to the elders."

"That is not why you want to send me to the elders." Jungkook glared at him. "You don't trust me."

"Do you trust yourself?" Jin shook his head, starting the food for the night.

"I-" Jungkook stopped, realizing how mean he sounded. "I'm sorry. I guess I don't. I'll go after this week, okay? Dad said I have to stay the week."

"This is bigger than your father." Jin sighed. "I mean it. One more time and I'm sending you their way."

"Hyung...please, at the end of the week, please." Jungkook got bowls out. "Please."

"You want to be here, and you want to help Jimin...yet...you avoid him?"

Jungkook nodded earnestly.

Jin rolled his eyes. "You don't make any sense."

"What am I supposed to do? Nearly lose it every time I'm by him? I might as well take some breaks if I can. But...I'll...I'll tell him tonight. So that he doesn't feel bad." Jungkook tapped his foot on the floor nervously.

"Oh? Are you?"

"I'm gunna try." Jungkook nodded. "At least try."

"He might like that." Jin finished making the food, putting them in bowls. Jungkook took a tray.

"Okay. I'll...I'll try." Jungkook made his way to Jimin's room. He knocked, waiting a little bit...then headed in.

Jimin sparked up when he saw Jungkook, making Jungkook happy. "Jungkook! I thought Jin was coming in."

"A-ah, no, he's got to do his work so it's just me."

"Well, I'm glad it's you." Jimin sat up a little more as Jungkook sat down, starting to help feed him.

"Oh yeah? Why's that?" Jungkook smiled at him, happy to be with him again. His wolf was a little quieter now.

"Well, I like your company." Jimin smiled back at him. "Did you have a nice day? I haven't seen you since this morning."

"I had a fairly nice day. It's pretty cold outside though." Jungkook laughed a little. "But the other patients here are happy to have some company. I don't have enough credentials to do much else."

"Are you warmer now?"

"Ah...I'm warm, yeah." Jungkook felt a little tired now.

Jimin gave him a small look, then glared. "Have you eaten today?"

Jungkook was surprised, then immediately felt guilty. "Oh uh..." Jungkook winced. "No. I'll eat after this. Hyung always makes enough." Jungkook reassured him.

Jimin glared harder, making Jungkook shiver and look away. "You haven't eaten all day?"

"No, I- I was busy."

"There's no such thing as too busy for food. You can't- you can't feed me daily while not feeding yourself. Go get your meal, we'll eat together."

"You're not strong enough yet...I'll eat afterwards, it's okay."

"No it's not?" Jimin glared harder, making Jungkook gulp.

"Okay, I'll...go...get myself a bowl and be back? Is that what you'd like?"

"Yes." Jimin eased up a little. "Please."

"Okay." Jungkook set the tray down and went back to the kitchen, seeing Jin there and sighing. "Jimin asked me to eat with him." He spoke quietly, making Jin look at him.

"Oh! Um, sure thing." He finished placing the bowls he was going to take on a larger tray, getting another bowl for Jungkook and filling it. "You didn't eat this morning, did you..."

"I'm eating now, so it's okay." Jungkook took the bowl with a smile. "Thank you hyung." Jungkook walked away before Jin could give him a lecture.

When he came back, Jimin was slowly eating. "Oh! Jimin, you're- you're doing it yourself!" Jungkook smiled happily, sitting down and setting his bowl down.

"S-so you can eat too. We can eat together." Jimin smiled at him, Jungkook smiling back.

"Tell me if it's too much."

"I'll be okay. I'm feeling better already." Jimin smiled at his bowl, eating slowly, while occasionally looking up at Jungkook to make sure he was eating.

Which, he was, but he felt nervous, so his appetite was low. He just wanted Jimin to be happy and healthy. "I'm glad. It seems your body is getting used to existing again."

"Oh definitely. It's...nice to not have to worry. It's odd, but it's nice."

"...what did you have to worry about?"

"Who walked in the door." Jimin ate, his attention on his food. "I had to worry about a lot."

"Ah." Jungkook felt angry at the thought of Jimin being overpowered. "Well, you won't have to worry about that again. Not with me here."

"What about when you aren't here?"

"I'm a call away." Jungkook shook his head. "Besides...no one here is capable of harming another. We're protectors. Our pack has always been protectors."

Jimin laughed a little. "That's so odd for me. Your pack is quite the opposite of the one I was in. This ones large and full of life. You're all so proud." Jimin smiled at him.

"Of course we're proud. We enjoy helping people and spreading the resources we have. We make sure everyone has what they need. And...I'm happy that I'm the one giving you what you need." Jungkook finished what he could, setting his mostly empty bowl down.

Jimin took a glance at it. "You didn't finish it?"

"No, I'm not that...I'm not that hungry." He spoke with a thin smile. "How are you feeling? Any sore muscles?"

"Mmm, my legs are a little sore. Not too bad though." Jimin finished his meal, drinking his water slowly.

Jungkook cleared the area. "Need a massage? I could probably ease some of the muscles."

Jimin smiled at him. "I thought touch was too much?"

"I can offer services. That's much easier." Jungkook looked over him. "Is that okay?"

"I'm not turning down a massage." Jimin smiled wider at him. "Besides...your touch is kind."

Jungkook positioned himself better, sitting on the edge of the bed. He picked up Jimin's leg carefully, politely touching to find a tight spot. When he did, he slowly massaged his leg. "Have you...been touched unkindly?" Jungkook knew the answer but...he wanted Jimin to feel safe with him.

"I have. You've seen...you've seen it."

"I'm sorry. I hope...I hope you feel comfortable with me. I want you to feel comfortable with me."

"I am." Jimin tensed a little, then relaxed, Jungkook feeling his muscles under his hands. "I'm very comfortable with you. I don't have a single worry about you. In fact...I keep wanting you to be with me."

Jungkook blushed a deep red, not looking up at him. "I...I'm glad..." he spoke quietly. "I'm glad you want me near you."

"So...what was it you were avoiding this morning?"

Jungkook switched to the other leg. "Oh." Jimin was definitely buttering him up for this conversation. But...well, he might as well know. "I'm going to go to the elders after this week."

"Oh? Why's that? I've just barely heard about them today."

"Ah. Well...you see, I've never lived with my wolf before. So it's extremely difficult to...be around you." Jungkook kept his focus on Jimin's legs. "Sorry that it sounds so harsh but...I'm not used to anything. I told you about the boar incident, but there's been multiple "incidents." So I'm going to help you for this week and get it checked out."

"Oh." Jimin sounded concerned. "You don't have to stay the whole week if it's serious. You've really never had contact with your wolf before? I thought you meant that you just hadn't been interested in anyone before."

"Both are true. I've never heard it before and I've never been interested in someone before. I've just been on so many dinner dates that I've lost my want but- but with you I get- I get excited. I get happy and I want to make you happy. And I haven't felt that before." Jungkook swallowed his saliva. "But that comes with consequences."

"What...what kind?" Jimin sounded concerned, which made Jungkook feel a little bad. He didn't want Jimin to worry about him.

"Well...I've had to go to the elders before. After one of my...incidents. And this visit will be very similar, or perhaps worse."

"How so? Jungkook, if you need to leave early, then please do so."

"I have to be here for the week. Dad said so. But, afterwards, I'll have to go. For a while at least."

Jimin pouted, speaking quietly. "But I'm just getting to know you..."

"We have the rest of the week." Jungkook smiled a little, going to the other leg again.

"Is this what you were ignoring this morning? That's not so bad."

Jungkook pursed his lips for a moment. "I...I'm going to have to be there for a while. There's a lot that happens when you don't know your wolf, and because of my previous incidents...they're most likely going to keep me with them for a while. T-they might agree that I'm...going primal." Jungkook spoke quietly at that word, hating it. But he knew it was true. He wasn't trustworthy. And he couldn't remember a lot of the incidents himself, only the stories of them from Jin.

"Jungkook...it's okay to go early."

"I need to see to it myself that you're okay."

"I won't be healed within this week."

"But you'll be better by the end of it. I need to see that I'm helping." Jungkook let go of his legs, getting off the bed. "That's what I didn't want to tell you. That I'm not exactly doing well, and that I'll be leaving you."

"But you'll still be here. Just...come see me when you're okay. Okay?." Jimin still sounded worried, making Jungkook look at him. "Okay?"

"Okay. I- I promise I will. You know I could never stay away from you forever." Jungkook watched Jimin pat next to him, Jungkook sitting this time.

Jimin smiled happily, putting his hand on Jungkook's thigh. "Can I ask you about the kiss?"

Jungkook blushed deeply, looking away. "O-oh. We don't- we don't have to talk about that-"

"But I liked it." Jimin smiled at him, his cheeks becoming pink. "I- I don't mind if you want to...do that."

"Jimin, I really shouldn't. This is- I- I don't know if that's a good idea." Jungkook couldn't look at him. "Cause I'd- I'm already restraining myself."

"Mmm. But I...we're still with no strings attached?"

"There's been a fucking million strings attached." Jungkook looked at Jimin's hand on his thigh. "I can't keep saying that. Cause everything I do is for you and that's- that's no lie."

Jimin gave a small exhale. "Yes strings, but...no mating."

"Yeah." Jungkook looked at him sadly. "No mating. I don't want to force you into anything."

"What if...after I heal...what if I want to mate you then?" Jimin pouted, the pink on his cheeks still there.

Jungkook felt embarrassed, his cheeks burning. "T-then we'd court each other. B-but! But I don't want to mate you!" Jungkook put his head in his hands. "I don't want to put any pressure on you, because once we mate you'll be a pack leader too. I- once I mate I'm the leader. It's more than just...mating." Jungkook sighed.

"Well...I...I don't mind."

"You don't know enough yet. It's overwhelming for me, and I've lived with it my whole life, I can't imagine putting you through it. Of course you'd get help but...I just won't do that to you. So...I think it's best if we don't mate, or wait on it for a while."

"But Jungkook, you're going to have to enter the ceremony...if it's going to be somebody, I want it to be me." Jimin sounded a little angry, which Jungkook took as perhaps, jealousy.

Jungkook smiled a little, finally looking at Jimin. "I already promised you I'd weasel my way out of it. I'll think of something. I always do."

Jimin pouted. "But what if you can't?"

"I promise you." Jungkook put his hand over Jimin's. "I'll find a way out of it."

Jimin seemed to ease at that. "Thank you for being clear with me. I thought maybe I was misreading things. But it does make me happy that you feel the same as me."

Jungkook laughed. "How could I not? The first time I met you you could probably tell how I felt."

"Well, that's true." Jimin laughed a little. "But I still couldn't assume. I couldn't assume that the first kind alpha was going to be interested in me."

"I didn't think you'd be the one to wake up my wolf." Jungkook wanted to be closer. "I didn't think I'd have that moment."

"I'm glad that...I'm special to you. I haven't been special in a good way before." Jimin looked down with a smile. "I'm happy with you."

Jungkook couldn't stop smiling. "I'm glad. That makes me so happy to hear." Jungkook heard his wolf much louder now.

Closer! Mate him! Mate!

He reached out to Jimin, then immediately retracted it. "I'm going to take our dishes back. I'll- I'll be back though, okay?"

"Okay Jungkook." Jimin smiled at him knowingly.

He quickly got up and took their tray, heading to the kitchen. He cleaned their dishes, drying them and putting them away. He took a deep breath, feeling better now. But his wolf was still being loud and aggressive inside of him. He had to keep that suppressed for a while.

He headed back to his room, taking a quick shower before going to Jimin's room.

Jimin looked tired. "Hey...you ready for bed?" Jungkook sat on the bed carefully, not wanting to overstep.

"Mhm." Jimin smiled at him. "Are you...willing to stay? So that I don't get another nightmare?"

"Mmm...how would you like me to be?"

"In my bed." Jimin looked at him with an earnest grin. "Like this morning."

"J-Jimin, that's...that's forward."

"We literally both said we would want to mate each other, I don't see the problem here." Jimin laughed a little. "We're dating without the title."

"Yeah but- but I'm- who knows what I'll do in my sleep. I was embarrassed enough this morning." Jungkook felt red.

"So what? It was nice. I didn't even have a nightmare, so I want to do that again."

"Ah...but...I..." Jungkook gulped when Jimin's hand rested on his thigh, yet again. "Jimin, please."

"Hm?" Jimin looked at him innocently, Jungkook feeling the need to either coo or whine, he wasn't sure which.

"You're completely unfair." Jungkook leaned closer to him before stopping. "I- you've gotta stop."

"Stop what?" Jimin pouted a little. "You don't like my touches?"

"Who said that?" Jungkook leaned in a little closer. "They just make me nervous."

"Mhm." Jimin glanced at his lips, a quick flick of the eyes, making Jungkook lose his goddamn mind. His wolf was screaming at this point, but he had to ignore that. "It seems like you don't like it." Jimin pulled his hand away, Jungkook quickly grabbing it.

He put it against his chest. "I didn't say that."

Jimin smirked a little. "Your hearts beating pretty fast."

"Yeah. It is."

Jimin grabbed Jungkook's shirt and tugged him closer. "Why are you nervous?"

Jungkook felt his cheeks burn as he stumbled on his words. "I- well I, I haven't exactly- Jimin...I've never kissed anyone before."

"Since you just so happened to bring it up, can I kiss you?" Jimin smiled cheekily, watching Jungkook inventively.

"W-we should wait. Shouldn't we?" Jungkook gulped audibly, his eyes peeling off of Jimin's lips and to his eyes.

He pouted, Jungkook giving all he had to not look at his lips again. "You want me to wait?"

"Y-yes. For when we- when you're maybe not in a hospital bed. When I can take you somewhere nicer."

"Aww~ you wanna save it for a nice date?"

"Of course." Jungkook smiled. "I want to show you all that we have to offer."

"You're cute. But seriously, will you sleep with me? Having you as a wolf is nice and all, but you in my bed is way more comfortable." Jimin let go of his shirt.

"Fine. Do you need anything before you try and sleep?"

"No, I think I'm okay. I just need you." Jimin moved to the side so Jungkook could have room.

Jungkook blushed and get in the bed, reaching over and turning off the lamp. "You're cheesy."

"You blush so easily."

"I can't help it." Jungkook moved to a more comfortable position, feeling Jimin's hands hug him. His face was now pressed into his chest. It was quiet for a long time, so Jungkook played with Jimin's hair a little.

"Thank you...by the way. It means a lot to me."

"I don't want you to have nightmares. I'm glad that I can make you sleep easy."

Jimin nodded. "You do. You really do."

Jimin fell asleep quite easily...but Jungkook didn't.

Jimin! Mate him! Make him mine, mate him!

His wolf yelled at him, being encouraged and calmed by Jimin next to him. Safe and sound, sleeping peacefully. His wolf wanted him so badly, concerning Jungkook. He tried to sleep but couldn't quite find a restful time where his wolf was quiet.

It was simply too loud.

____

Jungkook packed the one bag he brought, preparing to leave.

The week had passed, with Jungkook helping Jimin walk, eating dinner with him, and sleeping in his bed at night.

With breaks of helping the other patients and keeping them company, Jungkook had spent most of his time with Jimin, keeping him company, talking, and taking care of him.

And now he had to go to the elders since his wolf was being...unkind.

He'd snapped at Jin and Namjoon a couple times, reeling it in to not snap at the other nurses, and even went outside one night after he knew Jin had gone to bed. It'd been too loud around Jimin too, the urge to mate and mark him growing.

So he was nervous, to say the least.

His bag was small, so it didn't take him long. He put it on his back and took a deep breath before heading out. Jin, Namjoon, and Jimin were at the entrance, waiting for him.

"Ready to go?" Jin smiled at him, his arm around Namjoon's waist.

"Not really." Jungkook looked at Jimin, happy to see him healing so quickly. He was using the wall as a crutch, but he could stand for longer amounts of time now. "I don't think I'm going to have a good time."

"It'll be needed." Namjoon spoke quietly. "You've got our doctors note."

"Yeah." Jungkook looked down. "I just feel like I should be here."

"You'll be back though." Jimin smiled. "So don't worry." He tugged Jungkook closer, giving him a hug.

Jungkook hugged him back, nosing into his neck.

Mark him. Mate him. Mark him.

Jungkook squeezed his eyes closed, trying to ignore it. "I'll be back."

"But you've got to go first. We can't help you here, sadly. It's not a physical problem." Namjoon laughed tiredly. "That, we can fix."

"Yeah. I...I wish it was, to be honest." Jungkook sighed, let go of the hug, but still holding onto his shoulders so he could look at him. "I'll be back, okay?"

"Of course." Jimin smiled and went on his tiptoes, kissing Jungkook's cheek, leaving Jungkook dumbfounded...but not his wolf.

Jungkook felt his wolf snap, but before it could do anything he brought Jimin into another hug. He burrowed into his neck again, trying not to do anything.

He slowly bared his teeth.

Mark him.

Mark. Him.

Jungkook felt it, the kiss a welcome, an invitation, a show of submitting to him...and his wolf wanted more of it. He found a nice spot to bite, baring his teeth a little more-

"Jungkook." Jin's voice was stern. "You need to go."

His tone snapped him out of his haze, and he pulled away from Jimin quickly. "Thank you hyung." Jungkook bit down on his trembling lip, unable to look at the three of them. "I'll be going now."

"Bye Jungkook." Jimin spoke quietly.

"Bye Jimin." Jungkook turned tail and left, his head still cloudy and full of Jimin.

Fuck he was losing his goddamn mind. He felt hot, and awful, and he needed help. He really did.

He headed to the top of their village, the elders building there for protection. When the town used to get attacked, they never went further in than the borders, so the highest point was the safest.

Jungkook made his way there, feeling his wolf fight him the entire time. It wanted him to go back to Jimin, but he pushed through, making it to the building and knocking on the door.

It was a nice cottage house, warm, comfortable, but with the largest open living room in the village, so that they could all sit and make decisions.

Jungkook hated that room.

A younger woman opened the door, seeing Jungkook and letting him in. "What are you doing here Jungkook? Are you okay?" She spoke quietly, making him sit in the kitchen while she put on some water for tea. She got him a folded robe, setting it down in front of him.

"I...I'm not." Jungkook took out his doctors note. "I need to talk to them. I'm not doing too grand." Jungkook laughed a little awkwardly.

She took the note and read over it. "Oh...oh Jungkook...I'll go get them, you should change, okay?" She took the note and read over it again. "You know they like to keep it traditional in here."

"Sure thing."

"Thank you." She left to the back rooms, leaving Jungkook alone to change. He hated how loud his head was. He tapped his foot on the floor, trying to get out of his head. A couple of the elders came out.

"Jungkook, I'm glad you're here." Seokjin's mother came out, smiling at him. "We've been worried about you lately."

"For good reasons." Jungkook looked up at her with a worried smile. "I'm sure you read my doctors note, but...it's worse. It's so much worse."

"Then hopefully we can help you with that." She got mugs out, grabbing tea bags as well. "You must be tired of it...listening to it yell."

"I am." Jungkook sighed heavily. "I'm really tired."

"Come on over then." She took the mugs to the large room that Jungkook was dreading.

The other elder was setting up the room, setting down pillows, and getting the middle of the room prepped.

Jungkook walked careful to the room.

The two elders sat together, motioning for Jungkook to sit in the middle. He did so cautiously. The floor had petals and certain stones around. "Do I...need to explain what's been happening?" Jungkook took a deep breath.

"No. We know." Seokjin's mother handed him his mug. Jungkook sipped it. "Drink it all, it'll help."

"Help?..."

"Your wolf."

"Okay..." Jungkook drank as quickly as he could. "Um...what..."

"You should shift."

"Oh." Jungkook felt a little scared to do that. "I'm not sure...I'm not sure that's a good idea."

"Please." They nodded at him, Jungkook seeing a couple more elders come into the room. "Shift."

"I...okay." Jungkook shifted, feeling his mind mix with his wolfs. And by god was it awful. It was loud and aggressive and he felt the need to be with Jimin even more. His mind was hazy, filled with one mission. He looked around to find the exit, but saw the elders in the way.

"Woah there Jungkook. Lay down, please."

Jungkook didn't really take it in, trying to get past them. He couldn't really take much in, wanting to get out and to Jimin. Jimin was all that was on his mind.

It wasn't until he was being tugged away did he realize the elders had also shifted and were moving him deeper into the house. Jungkook had enough sense not to hurt them, but his wolf felt like it was clawing into his eyes to make him turn around and find Jimin.

His haze was finally cleared when the tea hit him, and he was put in a room built for a wild wolf. "You need time alone with your wolf young man." An elder spoke to him quite roughly, Jungkook looking at him with wide eyes. "Shift back when you've found your peace."

They shut him in, leaving Jungkook to be alone with his wolf in the room.

Howls could be heard all throughout the night.

____

Jimin recovered a little slower without Jungkook. His constant help made it easier to move around and he definitely felt more motivated to do things when he was with him, but, he'd made two new friends.

Taehyung spent a lot of time with him now, while Hoseok would visit here and there. Taehyung was a farmer at his grandmothers farm, while Hoseok and his partner were a part of the hunters.

The three though, were spending the night together. It'd been almost a week since Jungkook had gone, and the whole town was rather concerned at this point.

With the howling each night alone it was rather scary, but sometimes the quiet nights were worse. Jimin worried for Jungkook a lot.

"He'll be okay. There's not a thing he hasn't gotten through." Hoseok reassured him, fixing their mattresses on the floor. "He just has to get through this rather quickly instead of casually like the rest of us."

"I still can't believe he'd never heard his wolf before, I thought that was a given." Jimin sighed.

"Oh no, it was horrible to watch him try and figure it out. All his wolf knew was how to protect him...and obviously it doesn't know how to protect him from himself." Taehyung laid down, Jimin still sitting up.
"Hopefully this'll do him good."

"Is he going to be okay by your hunting season?"

"Our." Hoseok smiled at him. "You're a part of the pack too you know."

"W-well, I mean- I mean you're a hunter." Jimin felt a little embarrassed, yet happy to be accepted. He laid down beside Taehyung.

"If he doesn't then we'll just go without him. He may be our leader, but he keeps us updated throughout the year anyways. We know the plan." Hoseok sighed deeply. "Doesn't make it any easier though."

"Is it rough?" Jimin questioned, interested.

Taehyung laughed a little. "You should hear them bicker before they have to go. It was funny last year-"

"Don't." Hoseok groaned.

"They were all complaining but Jungkook shushed them with one glare, it was hilarious." Taehyung laughed. "It's funny how much you all take him seriously. He's just a silly boy."

"He's scary sometimes." Hoseok whined. "But he does listen well. He's like a little guard dog of our own. He fetches things just like one."

"He isn't that scary." Jimin hummed. "He's only been nice to me. Though, sometimes he teases, he isn't mean or scary, you know?"

"He's got the softest spot for you, shut up." Taehyung rolled his eyes. "We all wish we had a personal Jungkook."

"Ah, wouldn't that be nice. But hey, having someone as attentive as Yoongi is nice." Hoseok smiled, making Taehyung groan.

"You two are both way too knowing. You take one glance and you know what to do to make the room feel comfortable."

"It's a talent." Hoseok was definitely proud, making Jimin giggle.

"I want to meet him. I bet he's really nice."

"Oh he's amazing." Both Hoseok and Taehyung spoke, then laughed.

"Perfect."

"Maybe after hunting season. Then he wouldn't have any stresses and would be happy to meet you. Besides, you should be able to get out pretty soon, no?"

"Well, hopefully." Jimin sheepishly smiled. "I want to at least."

"I wonder what Jungkook will do when you get a place. He'll have to make excuses to see you."

"That's silly, he can just come over. Unless he'll be awkward afterwards." Jimin started to get tired, the three packed together. It was nice to have that warmth.

"He might."

"Then I'll get him used to me again."

The three slept on the floor, bundled up and cuddled close.

____

Jimin woke up with a strike of fear. It was raining outside, Hoseok and Taehyung still with him. But he felt...something was wrong.

Jungkook wasn't okay.

He shook Taehyung's shoulder slightly, getting a mumble. "Sleep..." the rest was incomprehensible.

"Taehyung...somethings wrong. I had a weird dream or something. I saw a flash of yellow- or golden- I'm not sure, but eyes."

Taehyung sat up at that. "What? Hoseok wake up." He shook Hoseok's shoulder lightly. He also gave a low mumble. "Jimin, what did you see?"

"A flash of eyes. I don't know, but I don't think Jungkook's okay." Jimin felt nervous, and cold, grabbing Jungkook's coat that he left on his bed, pulling it on. "I'm just- I-"

Hoseok sat up, definitely on alert now. "Wait shh." He shushed them, listening.

The three sat in silence, the rain hitting the window.

Then they heard some howls, and barking.

Hoseok got up quickly. "Those are alarms, somethings wrong." He got on his coat. "It's coming from the elders cabin, I- I'm going to wake up Namjoon and Jin, Taehyung, stay with Jimin, okay?" Hoseok pulled the string by the bed. He nodded and left, barely letting Taehyung reply.

"Okay..." Taehyung helped Jimin up. "Um...you know I'm just a farmer. I- I sure hope this isn't a big problem." Taehyung gave a nervous laugh. "I can't protect very well."

"T-that's okay- I'm- I'm sure this isn't a...a big deal..."

Taehyung and Jimin shared a look. Hoseok's warning was enough to make the two of them wary. The howls continued.

Hoseok barged back in, soaking wet. "Jungkook's loose."

"What?" Taehyung glanced at Jimin.

"He's loose. For what I know, he's heading here. Jin is keeping his patients together, but...the other hunters are trying to find him."

"You got all of that from a couple of howls?"

"I'm literally trained in this Taehyung, please, give me more credit."

"W-what's the plan then?" Jimin didn't like this. He didn't like this at all.

"We...it's easiest if we keep you here, protected at least. We know he'll be here so...b-bait him."

"I'm bait." Jimin spoke in a whisper.

"Essentially." Hoseok felt bad, but didn't have time to make second decisions. "Namjoon's coming here after he helps Jin. I'm...going to be on watch, okay? Taehyung...I'd say you should shift now. You know the alarm howl."

"You're not gunna fucking leave us, are you?!" Taehyung laughed in fear. "Hoseok, come on, you know I can't-"

"You can." Hoseok smiled at him, easing the two of them. "You can."

"I- okay."

"Jinin, you too. You might get across to Jungkook better as a wolf and you might be able to run away quicker."

"A-ah." Jimin nodded.

"Good luck." Hoseok gave them one more grin, then left.

Taehyung and Jimin looked at each other. "N-Namjoon will be here soon t-too, so we'll be okay."

"R-right." Jimin smiled nervously. "That's something. Has uh, has this happened before?"

"A lockdown? No." Taehyung sighed. "We might as well shift..."

"I- I haven't in- I haven't in a long time Taehyung-"

"It's for safety. You can do it." Taehyung gave him his confidence.

"Okay." Jimin took off his coat, hearing more howling and barking in the distance. It was definitely getting closer though. "Okay."

The two shifted. Taehyung had a nice brown coat, spots of darker areas as well. Jimin saw Taehyung become startled by him though.

Of course he would. He was quite...rare...as a species.

His pure white coat completely stood out in the room, and by Taehyung. But what probably stood out was the sliver of black against the coat, right on his chest, barely visible without flipping over. It was a mark of a leader, or in Jimin's case...once a leader. He didn't remember much, but he must've been the son of a pack leader. He had the mark to prove it, but he didn't have a memory to prove it.

Taehyung seemed to roll his eyes, making Jimin bark in laughter, until a loud howl was heard, making both of them jump and cower.

Closer.

Jimin knew Jungkook was close. He heard howling and more barking, then a loud growl. Hoseok had definitely called the hunters here, which meant...

A scuffle was heard in the front of the building, Jimin's ears picking up everything. Taehyung was definitely worried about this, Jimin could feel it. He seemed to be hyper aware right now and Jungkook was closing in.

The door creaked open, Taehyung guarding Jimin.

Jungkook stood in the doorway, his eyes golden. Maybe it didn't even count as Jungkook at the moment. That was purely his wolf. His large, pure black wolf stood in the doorway, growling and barring its teeth.

Taehyung howled, then bared his teeth as well. Jimin couldn't move.

The wolfs gaze on him was almost locking him into place. But, Jimin wanted to help Jungkook. Wanted to ease him.

Calm. Calm him.

Yet...he still wanted to help. He took a step forward, the wolfs eyes snapping to him, making him stop.

Run.

He no longer wanted to help. That was a wolf. That wasn't Jungkook.

It took one step in before getting tackled by another wolf, roughly getting out of the doorway.

Taehyung barked at Jimin, urging him to move. They needed to go, and they needed to go now, otherwise that doorway wasn't going to stay clear. The two ran out the door, out the back exit, hearing a distant growling. They immediately got soaked, the rain absolutely pouring.

Taehyung led him to the middle of the town, this being the first time Jimin had seen it. There was a nice fountain there, along with a lot of wolfs. They all fell silent at the sight of Jimin, but they quickly surrounded him, keeping Taehyung and Jimin together, while also in a circle of hunters.

They could all hear the wolf in the hospital. It wasn't going well.

With a flash of lightning, they saw the wolf exit the building and run forward to the fountain, his eyes on Jimin. The hunters positioned themselves, and it wasn't until now, that Jimin saw an equally large black wolf at the front. Most likely, the pack leader.

The wolf ran, his tear shaped mark glistening in the dark. The pack leader didn't let him get far though. He positioned himself to the side, leaping forward to knock the running wolf and stop its momentum. His claws were on the wolfs throat, holding him down.

The pack watched it, still on full alert. The wolf under the pack leader was growling with its teeth bared, the pack leader putting more pressure and showing his power.

An act of submission was what he was going for.

And that wasn't what he got. The wolf was snarling, unable to move, but not submitting.

Jimin felt the urge to help him. He was fighting off the pack leader, though he was obviously weaker...maybe only barely weaker. Jimin took tentative steps forward.

Taehyung tried to keep him back, but Jimin kept moving forward. He moved through the crowd of wolves, getting glances and worried aromas, but he kept moving. He had to get to Jungkook.

He had to find him in that mess.

The golden eyes that pierced him made Jimin nervous for just a moment, but he shook it off. He moved forward, getting a glare from the pack leader. Jimin ignored it, touching Jungkook's nose with his own, then nosed at his forehead.

Jungkook immediately relaxed his body, teeth no longer bared, body no longer tense, going lax, submitting to Jimin.

Jimin watched Jungkook close his eyes and breathe more comfortably as well, the pack leader loosening his grip and signaling the hunters to help move Jungkook somewhere else. Taehyung came up beside Jimin, taking him back to the hospital. He watched the pack take Jungkook back up the mountain.

Once inside, they saw Hoseok and Jin around Namjoon, helping him up. They'd all shifted back, robes on, and walking Namjoon into a room.

"Oh god! Is he okay?" Hoseok noticed them, then gasped, losing his grip on Namjoon for a moment. "Jin look at him!"

Both Jin and Namjoon looked up, gasping as well. "You're a leader!" Jin hefted Namjoon better on him. "G-get yourselves some robes. It's going to be a long night."

Taehyung pushed Jimin into his room, the two shifting back. Jimin gasped for air, putting on a robe...then Jungkook's coat. Taehyung silently got dressed, then headed to the room they put Namjoon in.

Jin was hurrying to get Namjoon some bandages and ointments, Hoseok of little help. "D...did Jungkook do this?" Jimin asked quietly, almost afraid of the answer.

Namjoon grinned. "He's one son of a bitch, isn't he?"

"I'm so sorry." Jimin sat by the bed, Jin coming back with a handful of materials.

"Don't apologize. He's just...a hassle." He leaned back on the bed with a heavy sigh. "Nothing against him."

"It's because of me though-"

"No. It's Jungkook's wolf at fault. For never waking up, and for being as stupid as it is." Jin undid a little of Namjoon's robes, Jimin seeing the slash mark on his chest. "So don't you dare apologize for something you aren't in control of."

"He...sort of is..." Taehyung spoke softly, taking comfort by Hoseok. "Jimin stopped him. He submitted to him."

"What?" Jimin watched Namjoon look at him with wide eyes, then wince as Jin applied something. "Ow, love."

"Your fucking fault for running right into trouble." Jin sounded equally pissed and worried.

"Jimin, Jungkook hasn't submitted to anyone before. Not even his father." Hoseok spoke quietly too. "And- and you're a leader."

"Was." Jimin glanced at them, then looked down. "I was the son of a pack leader."

"Oh dear." Jin gave him a sad look, then finished bandaging Namjoon. He sat on the bed with him, cuddling up to him. "You don't have to share."

"Um...I have a question." Jimin noticed the eyes on him, so he kept his down. He hugged his coat closer to him. "This isn't normal, is it? All of this?"

"No. No this isn't- we...this is new for us all." Namjoon held Jin a little closer. Jimin felt their fear.

All of their fears. Jin and Namjoon were holding onto each other, happy that they were both okay. Hoseok was holding Taehyung, both cold and tired, happy to have been mostly unhurt.

Jimin tugged his coat closer.

They were all feeling these feelings because of Jungkook. How was this the same Jungkook he knew and cared for? Well...maybe it was his wolf they were scared of.

Jimin scowled. "He's not scary."

"Hm?" Taehyung slowly moved to Jimin, most likely to comfort him.

"He's not scary." Jimin stated. "He just needs compassion."

"Well...we've never seen one of us go...primal." Hoseok spoke quietly, having said the word they'd all been dreading.

"Then we'll just have to learn how to deal with it." Jimin decided for them. "Jin...you're right. I'm not to blame for this. But I'll take responsibility for helping him, especially if I'm the only one who can."

Jin stared at him, then smiled wide. "Spoken like a leader."

"I'm not-" Jimin sighed, feeling embarrassed and slightly upset. "I'm not a leader. He may have submitted to me, but I haven't submitted to him." Jimin huffed.

"Well, I see exactly why he's interested in you."

"Oh yeah?"

"You're not afraid of him." Namjoon smiled.

"Oh." Jimin was expecting something less honest. "Why are you afraid of him?"

"He's strong." Hoseok spoke quietly.

"He's not used to no." Taehyung shrugged. "He gets what he wants."

"He doesn't listen to his body." Jin sighed. "As you can tell."

"He's able to do this...without much of a second thought." Namjoon looked down at himself.

"Okay...that's all...that all makes sense." Jimin sighed. "But he's only been nice to me."

"Well, there's more to him than what you've met. The rest of him was tonight. He's a scary hunter." Hoseok went to the closet, bringing out some blankets and pillows. It was still raining hard outside, hitting the window. "I...I joined the hunters to keep this place safe. But what I know now is that what we're really doing is to keep Jungkook at bay."

"What?" Jimin spoke quietly.

"He's our leader so he can...keep us safe. It's an outlet as much as it is a punishment. To keep his wolf at bay. His dad thought maybe it would wake up if it found something it was comfortable doing. Hunting is something our wolves have done forever. Turns out...Jungkook's wolf is a caretaker. It must've woken up to take care of you Jimin."

"He sounds so dangerous." Jimin was barely audible.

"He is. But he's also a good guy. He just needs...something more. Some more help."

The room went silent as one, loud, long howl pierced the air, Jimin feeling a longing to help the pained wolf.

They let it go, looking among each other and deciding it'd been a long night.

"You guys should go to sleep. There'll probably be a big meeting tomorrow. The pack leader should be giving a statement after something like that."

"Mm." Jimin nodded. "Rest well Namjoon."

"Oh I will. Don't worry." He smiled. "I'll be good as long as Jin stays with me."

"Don't be fucking cheesy now." Jin blushed, mumbling as he moved closer.

Hoseok laughed a little. "Alright alright, let's go." He moved the blankets onto the bed, helping Jimin get up. The three moved to the next room, back on their mattresses on the floor.

They laid down, cuddling up again. Jimin could still feel their fear, Hoseok most definitely on alert. The rain hit the window harshly, Jimin's thoughts on Jungkook, alone with his wolf once again.

____

This incident must've been the last one the pack leader was willing to tolerate. He'd called a town meeting, everyone meeting in the center by the fountain, as he stood before them all on a small stool.

Jimin stood next to Taehyung anxiously. He was getting a lot of looks, a lot of talk, and hearing his name often. He didn't know many people here.

"Gather round! It's high noon, and I need to give my statement. My son is resting now, and it seems that he'll be able to get back on his feet with a couple days of rest. Last night was a surprise to us all, but he's together now. The elders have given me a full run down of the situation that happened, and if you all didn't notice, we had a full moon last night. I'm not excusing his behavior, and I will be postponing his inauguration. With this issue, he is not fit to be a leader yet." He nodded. "Does anyone have a question?"

"We're there any injuries?..." a cautious voice called out from the crowd.

"One injury. Namjoon tried to slow him down. He's healing quickly and well, it wasn't a deep cut." Jimin knew that was a lie...the cut was indeed deep. He was serious about the topic though, making Jimin feel secured. He took a small look around...there were a lot of people.

"How'd it happen?"

"You all know Jungkook has been inconsistent with his wolf. As of last week, it woke up, so he's been trying to connect with it while with the elders. The full moon must have triggered something inside him, but he finally submitted to it during his search last night." Jimin could tell he was choosing his words carefully, trying not to out Jimin during his first time with the entire town here.

"Search?" The voices were quiet in the crowd, a murmur waving over them. "He's never submitted to anyone..."

The pack leader took a small breath. "My son has found a compatible mate. During his primal state he went to find comfort and he found it. For now, he'll be resting. I assure you, no harm was meant, and no further harm will be allowed. Knowing him...he'll be making an apology when he's healed. He'll be rested for hunting season as well, so don't worry about that either. Now please, rest if you need it, eat if you need to, and get back to your schedules. Any further questions will have to be made directly to me. Have a good day. If you need me, I'll be at the elders." He ended the statement, Jimin glad he didn't let anyone question further.

He watched the town find their ways, with some lingering to meet Jimin.

Three of them came up to Jimin, Taehyung bowing to them. Jimin didn't know them, but maybe they were hunters?

"Hey! I'm Kim Yugyeom, this is Bambam, and this is Jihyo. We've been excited to meet you." He seemed bubbly enough, the three of them a sight to see. They were all disgustingly attractive. Jimin wished his shirt was thicker.

"It's nice to meet you." Jimin bowed. "I'm Park Jimin."

"Me and Yugyeom are part of the hunters...that was something last night, how are you doing?"

"I'm...handling it." Jimin smiled a little. "It's not everyday that an untamable beast gets tamed. I had no idea."

"Yeah I was equally surprised. I thought he was more put together." Yugyeom shook his head. "But to see you...that was gorgeous, sorry. He completely submitted to you." He laughed a little. "We never thought we'd see the day."

Jihyo shook her head. "I completely understand why. Look at him." The three looked over Jimin, making him bashful.

"I- oh gosh." Jimin grabbed onto Taehyung's arm, embarrassed by the compliment.

Taehyung laughed a little. "Be nice to him, he's only met a couple of us. Make him feel welcomed."

"Oh he is. If Jungkook's welcomed him, then he must have good intentions. Especially you Taehyung, you don't like just anyone." Jihyo chirped.

"Ah, that's true."

"Well, it was nice meeting you Jimin. We wanted you to know that if you ever need anything, the packs got your back. You should check out your new house, it's looking good so far." Yugyeom smiled, nodding to the right. "We'll hopefully see you around."

"It was nice meeting you too." Jimin smiled at them, the three waving a goodbye and walking off.

"And now you've just gotta meet Yoongi. He was with us last night, but he had duties. He's probably with Hoseok now to make sure he's okay." Taehyung sat them down on the fountain.

"Hoseok didn't get hurt...did he?" Jimin thought about it. "How'd Jungkook get through Hoseok but only Namjoon got hurt?"

"Mm. Well...he got a little hurt on his arm but it wasn't much. Namjoon's was worse."

"Gosh...I feel so bad." Jimin sighed. "I ran from him..."

"He wasn't himself. Besides, I was the one who made us run." Taehyung nudged him. "So don't blame yourself at all. You've got self preservation, and that's something to be proud of okay? And you're fucking right. He may have submitted to you, but hey, you don't have to submit to him. Say no to him."

Jimin laughed. "You all just want to watch him not get his way."

"I certainly do." Taehyung laughed too. "He needs it."

"I'm not sure how he'll take it all. You know, when he comes back." Jimin took a look around. "He wanted to show me around too."

"You could still wait but...I don't know how long his recovery really will be. He's gunna have to be there for a while to recover from that."

"Yeah...I wish...I could be there for him. But I know he needs the time alone. He's just uncomfortable in his own mind at the moment. I think...the submission will help him."

"He might act like a fool around you now."

"He already did that." Jimin smiled. "Now he'll be even more of one."

"Ahhh, get ready for that."

____

Jungkook anxiously got his clothes on, ready to leave the elders house. "Thank you. I'm still so very sorry. I don't know how to make it up to you all." He bowed, keeping his head down.

Seokjin's mother patted his shoulder. "Don't worry a single thought about it. There's no fault here. You just hadn't met your mate yet."

"I scared people...that's not...dad told me I can't be the pack leader yet." Jungkook spoke quietly. "I'm not worthy of their apology."

"Chin up child." She spoke softly. "You didn't do anything wrong. If anything, we didn't help you enough."

"But you did. I'm just a mess and a horrible-"

"Ah- stop that child. Go make your apologies. You'll feel better after you see there's nothing wrong."

"Thank you." Jungkook bowed, not raising his head, took his bag, and left. He went down the hill, dread filling his lungs. He already knew he was going to cry. He couldn't raise his head, not daring to make eye contact with other people passing by. He felt his throat hurt, his chest tighten, and his eyes start to water.

He stood in front of the hospital, looking at the sign and sighing before heading in. He saw the same couple of nurses who all bowed to him. "Good afternoon Jungkook."

Jungkook spoke quietly. "W-where is Namjoon staying?"

"In the second room. It's good to see you again Jungkook...I hope you're doing better." She gave him a smile and Jungkook nodded, holding back his tears.

He could only whisper a small "Thank you," before he turned away to Namjoon's room.

He could hear Namjoon talking inside, quite chipper, most likely with Jin. He knocked quietly, opening the door anxiously. "Namjoon?"

"Jungkook! We didn't know you'd be coming down today." Jin stood from the bed, going over and bringing him into a bear hug. Jungkook felt his eyes water up immediately.

"Hyung I'm so-"

"Hold it Jungkook. You're fine." Jin let him go. "I'll go tell Jimin."

"No, don't. Please." Jungkook whispered. "I'll...I'll go to him when I'm ready."

"Okay." Jin put his hand on his shoulder. "I'll be happy to have you here again if you need somewhere to be."

"Thank you hyung." Jungkook tried to smile, but he saw Namjoon on the bed. "Oh god hyung." His bottom lip started to tremble as he walked to him, sitting on the edge of the bed and seeing the claw marks on his chest. "Oh hyung I'm so- I'm so sorry!" Jungkook started to cry, wiping his eyes aggressively to stop it. "I'm so sorry hyung I- I'm- I'm an- an idiot and I'm fucking stupid and I- I- I shouldn't have-" Jungkook couldn't stop hiccuping and crying.

"Jungkook, it's okay. It's just a small thing." Namjoon pulled Jungkook into a hug. "You weren't you, and I put myself in danger on purpose. That's not something you need to apologize for."

"I hurt you! That's not okay." Jungkook cried harder, grabbing onto Namjoon's loose clothes. "I'm horrible I'm so sorry hyung, I'm so sorry-"

"Jungkook." Namjoon rubbed his back while hugging him. "You did nothing wrong."

Jungkook shook his head, crying into his chest. Namjoon sighed with a smile, letting Jungkook cry it out.

Jin left the room, closing it behind him and headed to Hoseok's room. His arm had a nasty cut on it, but it wasn't anything damaging. It just might leave a scar. When he got there, Yoongi was in there talking with Hoseok.

"Jungkook's back."

"Oh. Is he with Namjoon?" Hoseok played with Yoongi's hand.

"Yeah. He'll be in there for a while, but I'm sure he'll be apologizing to you too."

"He better apologize to me too, he's fucking heavy." Yoongi rolled his eyes, gaining a small laugh from Hoseok. "But seriously...is he okay?"

"Not really. He seems more put together but he isn't...happy." Jin sighed. "He isn't happy at all."

"Well, hopefully he'll find some comfort. Has he uh...seen Jimin yet?"

"No." Jin sighed again. "He asked me not to tell him he's back yet. So I just- ugh, he's being indecisive. I know he feels horrible about it all, but I think that's the last time anything will happen."

"Jin...did you see him?" Hoseok spoke quietly. Yoongi took his hand and held it this time.

"I...I didn't. I was with the patients."

"Then you don't understanding why he feels terrible. It was scary Jin. He wasn't himself at all...his eyes were golden. He attacked. And Jimin was- it's all a lot. Jungkook went through a lot and so did we."

"I know it's a lot, but he needs to understand that it's not his fault. Do you blame him?"

"No." Hoseok and Yoongi responded at the same time.

"Exactly. So there's nothing to be scared about. Jimin is right. He isn't scary. He just needs some help." Jin sighed. "Okay?"

"Okay hyung." The two nodded.

Their attention turned to the knock on the door, and Jungkook entering the room.

His head was hung, obviously hiding and shameful. He moved closer, looking up at Hoseok for a second before tearing up. "Hyung I'm so sorry." His bottom lip quivered as he took a step closer, then back. "I'm so sorry hyung." Jungkook covered his face with his hands, unable to stop himself from crying. "I didn't meant to, I didn't mean to hurt you-" he cut off, trying to stop himself from crying by biting his hand.

"Jungkook. It's okay." Hoseok spoke softly, but Jungkook lashed out.

"It's not!" Jungkook cried harder, squatting down and hanging his head. "It's not okay! I can't fix this. I can't- I can't fix this- I can't fix-"

"Jungkook. It's okay." Hoseok got up, squatting next to Jungkook. He put his hands on his shoulder. "It's okay. I'm not hurt, and you weren't you."

"But it- it was me- that's part of me- I-" Jungkook felt himself shake. "I can't ignore that anymore and- and I just-" he took a sharp intake of air before trying to talk more. "I can't keep anyone safe if- if I'm not together."

"But you are. You seem so much better now. Collected. You just need some time to get it all together now. Some time with yourself to learn how to be one with yourself, as fucking cheesy as it sounds. You're not at fault. Okay?" Hoseok pulled him into a hug. "You're not at fault."

"I am hyung- I- I am." Jungkook hiccuped, trying to breathe and stop crying. "I am at fault- and- and Namjoon said so too but he's hurt and I hurt him- I- I- I'm not-" Jungkook couldn't finish, leaning into Hoseok.

Yoongi slinked off the bed and hugged them both. "You can't blame yourself Jungkook. You've lived 22 years not knowing yourself yet, of course you'd have a problem when you finally do. And it wasn't that big of a lash out, so it's okay. You've apologized. That's all you can do."

"Hyung...I can't...I can't." Jungkook clung to Hoseok. "I can't be a good mate like this." He was barely audible, still shaking.

"Jungkook..." Hoseok didn't know how to comfort him further. "You need to talk to him."

Jungkook shook his head, sniffling. "I can't." He didn't know how to talk to Jimin about this. He didn't want to hear it either.

He didn't want to see him scared or hurt, or upset, or anything because of him. He didn't want that. He couldn't handle that. So he was going to avoid it.

"He'll want to see you..." Yoongi broke his spiraling thoughts. "He wants to see you."

"I'm not a good mate. I won't be- I can't- I can't do that to him. I- I- I'm a danger to people. That in- includes him. He deserves a good- good mate." Jungkook hiccuped, his tears not stopping.

"And you will be one." Jin spoke softly, kneeling down to the three. "Now, at least."

"I had to go to- to rehab because I can't fucking control myself. H-how is that a g-good mate? I can't- can't do that to him." Jungkook felt his heart and wolf hurt. Saying those words out loud were enough to make his wolf sad. "I can't do it."

"Talk to him. It's not your decision to choose what's best for him. He's gotta decide that on his own."

Jungkook nodded, trying to come down from his head. He took some shaky breathes, looking up at Hoseok. "You promise you're okay?"

"I promise. I'll be healed by hunting season."

Yoongi gave a small glare at this. "If you aren't you're resting."

"Promise." Hoseok smiled at him, then at Jungkook. "I promise I'm okay."

"Okay hyung...and...I'm sorry you had to carry me. I know that's not fun." Jungkook felt a little bad about this. "Sorry Yoongi hyung."

Yoongi laughed. "I was joking by complaining you know."

"Still. I know I'm heavy."

"Pure muscle, is what you are." Jin punched his shoulder playfully.

Jungkook gave a weak laugh. "Sure hyung." They helped him up, the atmosphere a little less stiff. Jungkook felt tired now, his eyes and nose red. He could read the room though. Just a couple rooms down is where Jimin should be.

"Are you going to?..."

"No. I should go. Head home and make a formal apology to the hunters, and to the town." Jungkook looked down. "I gotta head home. Mom probably misses me too." Jungkook kept finding excuses. "I haven't been home in weeks so...I gotta go. I promise I'll make it up to you all. S-somehow." Jungkook smiled thinly and headed out, his eyes threatening to drop more tears.

He kept his head down, heading to the exit when he picked up Jimin's scent. He went directly into panic mode, raising his head and finding where he was, then going out of his way to avoid him. He must've been out with Taehyung, since the two were coming into the building. Jungkook took a couple steps then picked up the pace, going out the back door before they could notice he was here at all.

He felt the chill of snow once he stepped outside, carefully closing the door and letting out an anxious breath. His heart was racing, his wolf kindly telling him to turn around and see him.

At least his wolf wasn't yelling anymore. He'd had a hard enough two weeks of that.

He took a couple steps before he picked up Jimin's scent again, spiking his anxiety again. He didn't hesitate to run this time, his eyes stinging. He just needed to get home, away from Jimin, he needed to clear his head.

Yeah, he was just tired. That made sense, he'd just had a very terrible week and a good nights sleep in his own bed would be nice. Though sleeping next to Jimin was more preferable, that would have to do.

When he reached his house, he was out of breath. He was sweating in the snow, his temperature all over the place, and his anxiety coming down. He was extremely tired now, coming down from his spike of adrenaline, as he entered the household.

____

Jungkook had spent the next two days mostly crying and eating, while his dad tried to help him for his formal apology. He'd already apologized to his hunters, but now he needed to apologize to the people. Jungkook knew he wouldn't be able to avoid Jimin forever, but he'd hoped for more than three days.

He wiped his eyes as he listened to his dad, who was comforting him once again.

"They're going to forgive you. They all know you, either watched you grow up or played with you. You know them Jungkook."

"And I still scared them. Again." Jungkook wiped his eyes.

"They care for you. They love you Jungkook. You just needed one more push and you got it, they're not going to fault you for it."

"I scared them dad..." Jungkook kept wiping his eyes. "I can't believe I did it again. I thought I was better than this."

"Hey. Look at me." He held his sons cheeks. "Look at me Jungkook."

Jungkook slowly looked up at him, sniffling.

"You did nothing wrong. Okay? You did nothing wrong. There was an intruder in your body, and now he's no longer an intruder. You had to submit to it, and I get it, I get that you were scared of it. But he's a part of you, and you don't have to be afraid of him anymore. Okay? And the more you're unafraid of him...the more you'll be in control of yourself."

Jungkook nodded. "Okay."

"You did nothing wrong."

Jungkook pursed his lips. He still felt scared and awful. Knowing the beast inside him wasn't exactly comforting, especially after seeing what it could do. If it could hurt his dearest friends, then what could it do to his beloved omega?

"Hey. You did nothing wrong." He kept reassuring, looking at his eyes.

"I- but it did. And that's a part of me so- so-" Jungkook felt his eyes tear up again.

"No. That was a beast, a wild wolf. That's a primal state, which isn't what we are. The wolf inside of you now isn't that same beast. Do you understand?"

Jungkook nodded, but still felt like shit. His dad wiped his tears. "You're a good boy. No, you're a good man. I trust you Jungkook. You'll be okay."

"Thank you." Jungkook nodded at him, his dad smiling and kissing him on the forehead.

"You can do this."

He left with that, leaving Jungkook to be along and gather himself before his apology.

____

Jungkook stood before the town on a small platform, his heart calm, but racing. He could talk to a crowd, but he could also see Jimin in there, and that made him anxious. His father was right beside him, nodding for Jungkook to start.

The first thing he did...was kneel before them. "Everyone." Jungkook bowed his head. "I deeply apologize for my actions that may have cause you harm, or made you feel fear. It's inexcusable and I am taking full responsibility. I've made my direct apologies to those I harmed, but I am apologizing to all of you." He raised his head to see the crowd, feeling his eyes tear up at the response.

They were mostly smiling softly, as if they could feel his pain.

"I- I never meant for this to happen. But I'm finally together. And I know that doesn't excuse the panic and fear I created, but it does mean that it won't happen again. I'm finally whole. I promised you all that I will keep you safe, and I'm sticking to that promise. I will continue to keep you safe, if you'll let me." Jungkook bowed his head again, his hands by his head. "Thank you for listening." He felt his bottom lip tremble again, but his eyes had already cried out all his tears.

"Jungkook, you know we trust you." A voice called out from the crowd.

"Yeah! You've always kept us safe!"

"No danger has come our way because of you."

"Because of you, we're the safest we've ever been."

"We love you Jungkook!"

The crowd began to all shout out things, making Jungkook look up at them. His eyes started to water again, his bottom lip trembling. "Thank you! Thank you so much!" He bowed and cried, unable to take the compliments, and feeling odd to have not taken any punishment.

He felt a hand on his back. "Son...come on, let's head home. You haven't eaten much today."

Jungkook sniffed, nodding his head and stood up, getting off the small stage. He trailed his father, wiping his eyes and keeping his head down. He probably looked like a sad puppy, but he didn't know how to stop crying.

"Wait! Jungkook!" Taehyung called out to him, making him turn around. He was immediately greeted by Jimin though. He looked pissed.

"Why have you been avoiding me?" He glared, his hands on his hips. "I thought you said you'd come back right after you were done."

"I- I did say that, didn't I?" Jungkook tried to laugh, but he couldn't. His throat was too sore and he didn't have it in him. "I'm-"

"Don't apologize." Jimin glared harder, almost growling. "You promised me." He took a step forward, making Jungkook back up.

"Don't. Don't touch me Jimin I- I'm not-"

Jungkook felt his anxiety spike as Jimin kept moving forward. "You promised." He grabbed Jungkook's shirt collar and pulled him down to eye level. "You promised me you'd come back."

"And I will when I'm ready, please Jimin, I can't-"

"You can't what?!" He shook his hand, obviously upset. "You visited Namjoon and Hoseok, and you ran from me. Why?"

Jungkook felt his anxiety threaten to drop tears from his eyes once again. "I- I can't Jimin, please, let me go-"

"Tell me!" Jimin was pissed, Jungkook feeling his bottom lip tremble again. If this is how his omega felt about him, then he'd never be good enough for him.

"Because I can't be with you!" Jungkook was unable to see him anymore, his eyes fully covered by water, before closing them and feeling the tears fall. He was so tired of crying, but it seemed it was all he could do. "I can't be your mate, I can't protect you if I'm the danger!" Jungkook cried. "So please, let me go."

Jimin went silent, his grip loosening. "You..." he gulped, his voice softening. "You submitted to me Jungkook. You're in my care."

"No!" Jungkook finally batted his hand away, taking steps backwards once again, and opening his eyes. "I can't do that to you. I- I can't- I can't do anything to you, you deserve a better mate than me. I- I'm so sorry- I- I can't." Jungkook brushed away tears, then covered his mouth with his hands to try and stop his hiccuping.

"Jungkook, I've chosen you." Jimin looked at him with determination. "Not this year, but next. You're going to be my mate. So let me take care of you."

"You don't have to submit to me though. You can- can find another to be with, and that's what you should do." Jungkook felt horrible saying that. "Please." Jungkook wiped his eyes again. "I can't do it."

Jimin stared at him, then eased. "That's not your decision. I can do what I want, and one day, I will submit to you. When I'm sure that we'll be mates for real, I will. So until then, let me fucking take care of you. You look so tired Jungkook." Jimin reached out to him again, Jungkook slapping it away and taking more steps back.

"Jimin. Please. I can't." Jungkook shook his head. "Please. I need to go home." He spoke quietly.

"You said you'd show me around. And you promised me you'd be back." Jimin was still trying.

"I-" Jungkook felt his chest tighten. "I can't."

"You can." Jimin moved closer and grabbed his collar again. "You can." His other hand brushed Jungkook's tears away. "You promised Jungkook."

"I did..."

"So keep that promise. Stay with me tonight, please. I want to hear all about your time up there, help you feel okay, have a nice meal together. We were all so worried about you."

"Jimin, I can't...I...I can't hurt you."

"And you haven't." Jimin smiled at him. "You haven't hurt me."

"Jimin I can't put you in harms way, and me being here-"

"No. Don't go doing that again." Jimin pouted, making Jungkook lean in closer. "You're not a problem, and you're not going to hurt me. So please. Stay with me tonight."

Jungkook sighed. "Can I...come later? Tonight though." He spoke quietly, but couldn't deny Jimin's request.

"Before Jin closes that door, yeah. Come for dinner." Jimin let go of his collar, both hands on his cheeks now, wiping the remaining tears.

Jungkook leaned into his touch, closing his eyes with a pleased smile. "Okay. I'll be there for dinner. As...as long as you need me, I'll be there."

"Great, cause I need you to be at dinner with me and to stay the night." Jimin smiled, brining his head down and kissing his forehead. "Okay?"

"Okay." Jungkook smiled more, his wolf extremely happy.

"Then I'll see you tonight." Jimin let go of him, turning and walking to Taehyung.

Jungkook went home, feeling better.

His parents were waiting for him at the table. "Jungkook! We made a nice meal, I didn't think you were taking so long. Did Jimin have something to say?"

"Yeah I- I'm going to head over there for dinner."

"Eat lunch with us, please." His dad looked a little worried, so Jungkook obliged. They made him a plate. "Your mother and I have been talking about your relationship with Jimin. If...if you want to mate, then please, don't worry about becoming the pack leader. You're right, I have a lot more years I can serve. So if that's what you want to do, then please, don't worry."

Jungkook smiled a little to himself. "We already agreed not to yet. But, I am scared to ask him to be my mate." Jungkook ate a little. "He just got out of something so demanding...and being a pack leader is also demanding."

"I think he knows more than you think he does."

"Hm?"

"He was a pack leader. Or at least related to one."

"Hm?" Jungkook looked up at his father. "What?"

"Ah, right." He cleared his throat. "He shifted. He's a pure white wolf with a black mark on his chest. I didn't get a great look at it, but we saw it. It's no wonder you submitted. He must have had a lot of power before his misfortune."

"This is just great." Jungkook sighed, leaning his forehead on his fingers. "I can't even remember a thing."

"That's alright. As long as you're feeling better. And seriously, take what we discussed into consideration." His father raised an eyebrow at him.

"We want what's best for you, and if that isn't being the pack leader, then that's that. You can't put it off forever, but we can put it off for a little bit longer." His mother spoke kindly, making sure he understood. "We don't want to stress you out and put more on your plate if you can't handle it." With that, she put another scoop of rice on his plate. "Okay?"

Jungkook grinned. "Okay. I'll talk to him tonight."

____

Jungkook took a deep breath as he got to the hospital, opening the door and heading to the kitchen. Jin seemed surprised.

"Fuck! Jungkook, knock you absolute-"

"I'm here to help. Need anything?" He gave an awkward grin, obviously nervous.

"Ah. Jimin's been eating by himself by the way. He's been recovering very well, as you can tell, he's been walking a lot more." Jin smiled knowingly, as he finished the dinner. "He's been talking about you a lot you know."

"He's been worried you mean." Namjoon came into the kitchen, putting on a coat.

"You heading out?" Jin gave him a small glare.

"I've gotta get back to the at home patients you know. I'll be back tonight, I promise." Namjoon gave Jin a kiss as he headed out.

"You better! It's getting colder by the day."

"It really is." Jungkook sighed. "The hunting season won't be for a couple weeks though."

"You're worried about it still?"

"Of course. I need to get enough pelts for everyone, and enough food. We keep having more and more people each year, so my hunts have to be more and more plentiful."

"We could focus more on fish." Jin shrugged.

"But pelts." Jungkook shook his head. "We need warmth too. It's hard to use the entirety of a fish, but it's easy to use the entirety of an elk."

"Wow~ look at you, being so thoughtful and kind to the universe." Jin rolled his eyes. "I'm glad I'm not the pack leader." He put two plates on a tray.

"You're a pain." Jungkook took the tray and headed to Jimin's room.

He knocked, waited patiently...then took a deep breath and went in.

"Jungkook! I'm so glad you're here." Jimin smiled at him, and Jungkook felt at ease.

"I'm here. Jin made a lovely meal."

"Mm, it could use a candle to be more romantic." Jimin hummed, taking his plate and patting the bed in front of him. "Eat on the bed with me."

Jungkook smiled and sat across from Jimin on the bed. "Better?"

"Better. So...tell me how it went? We've all been wondering, but you've been cooped up at your house."

"Ah." Jungkook thought about how to describe it for a moment. "It's like- you know when you hear your wolf and it's kinda like, there? And you can take suggestions but ultimately it's your decision and not your wolfs? Well, imagine that but backwards. It felt like my wolf was in charge and I was just...giving suggestions it didn't even think to consider. Like, as if I was stuck inside."

"The whole time?" Jimin looked at him with wide eyes.

"Pretty much. Till...you know, then. After that I was more put together and could actually have a conversation with it."

"I- I can't imagine that, I'm so sorry." Jimin shook his head. "I wish I could've helped you. I think I could've helped you."

"No no, it's okay. I needed the time to be with myself. I'd been so scared to just, accept that part of me because all I thought it could do was hurt people." Jungkook laughed. "This isn't exactly a good discussion for dinner."

"But I'm interested!"

"But dinners should be relaxing or at least comforting."

"Nothing screams romantic like sharing trauma."

Jungkook laughed. "Sure. Skip everything, go straight to trauma. Well, I guess you heard it from me. What about you? What did you do while I was gone?"

"I walked a lot." Jimin shook his head. "And I gained some weight! One day I won't be a stick, but for now, at least some fat on me is appreciated. It's been getting so cold lately."

"Do you need more blankets? I have more at my house if you need them, just tell me." Jungkook went into full service mode.

Jimin smiled at him. "I just need you."

Jungkook blushed at that, looking down at his plate and shoving food in his mouth. Jimin laughed at this.

"How are you still embarrassed? You're practically mine, how does just a little bit of flirting make you shy?"

"I'm not used to you. I don't think I ever will be. You're just...I'm- I may be together, but I'm still not good at saying no to you."

"Sooooo...if I asked you to stay the night you would?"

"I- of course." Jungkook felt the heat from his cheeks as he tried to look up at Jimin.

"And if I said I really want to kiss you...you would?..." Jimin raised an eyebrow, his plate mostly empty at this point.

"I- I'd have to c-check to make sure you- you mean it." Jungkook looked to the side.

"And if I really was sure?"

"Then I might...say yes."

"Mm, good to know." Jimin smiled happily, setting his plate on the tray.

Jungkook couldn't bare to look at Jimin, his cheeks flushed, and his pride a little smaller now. "But...wouldn't you want to wait? Until I court you?"

"I don't need to wait for a fancy date to kiss you. Besides, this is a date, isn't it?"

"Is it?" Jungkook pursed his lips.

"Well, we're having dinner together. That's how your dates usually go, right?"

"That's...that's true..."

"Then consider it a date." Jimin hummed happily, his hand gripping the bed sheets a little. "Can...can you come closer?"

"I...Jimin, I'm-"

"Can you?"

"I should take our dirty dishes back." Jungkook still wasn't used to Jimin. Not at all.

He didn't seem pleased with that answer. "Hmmm. Then when you come back, you'll stay in bed with me, right?"

"I- I might do some rounds-"

"I want to kiss you Jungkook." Jimin pouted with a small glare. "And you won't even look at me."

"B-because I'm- I'm weak when it comes to you."

"Then be weak."

"I-" Jungkook laughed a little. "Why do you want to kiss me so badly?" He slowly looked at Jimin, his confidence low.

"I missed you, and I wanted to before you left."

"Ah." Jungkook nodded. "Well, I should take our things back. Then...Seokjin probably won't disturb us..." Jungkook got off the bed, his cheeks still a pleasant red. He got the tray, putting his own dishes on it. He looked up to see Jimin smiling.

"Okay. Tell him I said goodnight."

Jungkook nodded and left, still extremely embarrassed. He went to the kitchen, cleaned their dishes and dried them before Seokjin came in.

"Did he eat everything?"

"He left a tiny bit. That's all."

"Mm, good." Jin put his dishes in the sink. "You staying the night?"

"Yeah. He told me to tell you goodnight."

"Don't keep him up too late." Jin eyed him, making Jungkook look away.

"If anything it'll be the opposite."

Jin laughed. "Oh yeah?"

Jungkook nodded, embarrassed once again. "Goodnight hyung."

"Try to sleep."

Jungkook hurried back, keeping his head down, as he felt the blush on his cheeks threaten to go to his ears.

He forgot to knock as he came in, closing the door behind him.

Jimin was in bed, opening the blankets for Jungkook to come in, which he did. "What did Jin say to make you red already?" Jimin giggled. "It's not like we're having sex."

Jungkook blushed more at that, feeling himself and his wolf stop functioning. "I- I- I can't-" he covered his face.

Jimin raised the blankets a tiny bit to swing his leg over and straddle Jungkook's thighs. "You can't what?" Jimin tried to pry away Jungkook's hands.

"J-Jimin I- you're too much." Jungkook barely got his words out, his throat closing.

"How so? Do you not want to kiss me?"

"I do!" Jungkook removed his hands, but immediately regretted it, as he saw Jimin's face. He was just too fucking cute, too pretty, and his lips were so lovely. He wanted to know what they felt like against his, how he'd react, how he'd like it, and all his preferences. He wanted to kiss him so badly. "I...I do."

"Then can I kiss you?" Jimin inched closer. "I promise it'll be nice."

Jungkook smiled, his cheeks burning. "Yeah. I- I want to kiss you."

Jimin smiled back, his hands holding Jungkook's cheeks softly. "You're sure?"

"I'm sure. We can go on nice dates another time. After winter." Jungkook raised his eyes to look at Jimin's. "So I- I'm sure now."

Jimin smiled a little more, then closed the gap between them. It was soft, and sweet, making Jungkook absolutely lose his mind. He gave in immediately, kissing back just enough to making Jimin smile during it. When Jimin pulled away, Jungkook lingered, wanting more, but not initiating it himself.

"You liked it I'm assuming?" Jimin giggled, moving closer.

Jungkook's hands slowly rested on Jimin's waist, then slowly rested his head on Jimin's shoulder. "When can I court you?"

Jimin laughed. "Maybe next winter. Next time we can. But I need to make sure my people are safe first. You know I can't relax yet, not until we're all safe."

"Mmm...but...I want to court you. Bring you things, take you nice places..."

"I can't be entirely spoiled until my people are safe." Jimin put his head on Jungkook's shoulder, kissing his neck. "Okay?"

Jungkook felt his cheeks heat up again. "You're a good leader."

"I hope so." He sat up again, looking at Jungkook.

"Can I still kiss you? Even though I can't court you?" Jungkook looked up at him, pouting.

"You better still kiss me. I can't imagine not being able to." Jimin ran a hand through Jungkook's hair, playing with the ends of it at his neck. "I need a lot of attention by the way."

"I'll give you everything you need, I promise."

"Oh yeah? Everything I need?"

"Of course. I promise I'll be a good mate." Jungkook smiled at him, his wolf extremely happy. "I'll give you everything you want."

Jimin smiled happily. "I've never been spoiled before."

"Let me spoil you!" Jungkook happily held Jimin closer, hugging him. "Please, let me spoil you."

Jimin giggled, his hands clasping behind Jungkook's neck. "You want to that badly?"

"I do."

"But I can't yet. Not until my people are okay. I shouldn't get spoiled before them."

"Winter will be over before you know it, and my hunters will be ready. I can take them."

"I'm sure you can. You took four no problem." Jimin kissed his nose. "It's funny to think how serious you were then, compared to now."

"You're safe now." Jungkook blushed. "So I don't need to be upset."

"Mmm." Jimin kissed his forehead. "That's reassuring. I like...being protected."

"And you will be. By me, and by the pack. We won't let anyone hurt you again." Jungkook looked at Jimin's reactions. "I promise."

He simply smiled and nodded. "I'm glad you believe that. It gives me hope that it's true." Jimin kissed his cheek. "I want to be safe. It's the least I could ask for."

"Ask for everything. We might not be able to provide special foods, but we can provide a lot. Much more than you'd expect."

"Oh yeah?"

"Yeah. We have a lot to offer." Jungkook looked at his lips for a split second, then back at Jimin's eyes. "You could ask for nearly anything."

"Mmmm, how about another kiss?" Jimin smiled cheekily.

"I can't deny that, can I?"

Jimin kissed him again, still playing with his hair. Jungkook melted into it, happy that Jimin was happy. He was happy that Jimin wanted the same things he did, happy he had a goal, happy he was comfortable with him, happy that Jimin was his.

Jungkook didn't sleep much that night, instead, he played with Jimin's hair as he slept on his chest, cuddled up against him. He couldn't help but feel at ease while with him, and he wondered how he was ever living without him.

____

This continued for another week, before Jungkook had to leave to prepare for two things: the ceremony, and the hunt.

Jimin wondered what would happen during the ceremony. Jungkook had shown him around a little, on days the snow was light, and helped him meet more of the town. Though he'd get a little protective here and there, relatively, the outings were nice, and he even got to see his future cabin.

That thought alone was crazy.

His own house...

Jimin was picking out flowers with some other people he'd met for his house when the bell in the middle of the town rang.

"A town meeting?" Jimin questioned, looking at the flowers still.

"Oh yes! The ceremony is tomorrow. We've heard Jungkook is still going to be a part of it." The ladies around him gossiped. "Apparently the leader is still making him, I thought since he isn't going to be the leader he wouldn't have to join the ceremony."

"Is...there a reason he's still in it?" Jimin asked curiously, but inside he hated the idea. He didn't like the idea of Jungkook going on dates with potential mates, and he didn't like the idea of Jungkook putting himself out there to be courted.

They were practically already dating, so of course he didn't like the idea.

"Not sure. He's either ready to mate someone, or he's willing to settle." One of them shrugged. "Now come along, let's head over there."

Jimin walked out with the ladies, furrowing his eyebrows at his thoughts. What was Jungkook doing? They weren't going to mate yet...and he hadn't told him about this. Maybe he just had to keep his promise to his dad before the incident, and besides, Jungkook said he'd always gotten out of it...right?

He tried to locate Taehyung when he got there, but the pack leader was already on the small stage set up, a large smile on his face.

"Hopefully some tricklers will be able to hear this, but our annual ceremony is tomorrow afternoon! For those who wish to be a part of it, please come by my house today so we can get an accurate count. This is a time for married couples to revise your vows, a time for others to ask to court another, and a time to put forward your interest in someone else. If you've spent time making a gift, this is the perfect time to give them. Wear your best clothes, look your best, and be ready for tomorrow. We'll start at noon sharp, so be prepared! Afterwards we'll have our feast as always, so remember to thank our chefs, and farmers!"

The crowed had a happy atmosphere, people looking at each other excitedly, chatter loud.

Jimin wondered what Jungkook was planning. He kinda liked the idea of showing Jungkook he was interested though...but he didn't have anything to give. He actually had zero things. He only had what Jungkook had given him, and even then, it wasn't too much.

It seemed a bit of people were walking back with the pack leader, and as Jimin saw more people leave, he saw Jungkook lingering about with a notebook in his hand, writing things down.

He was dressed well, a warm pelt coat over his shoulders, his hair done rather nicely. Jimin could tell he was getting a bit of attention because of it, so he walked over. He smiled, sidling up next to Jungkook and looking into his notebook. "Whatcha doing?" He was completely meaning to be flirtatious, batting his eyelashes a little as he looked up at Jungkook.

"O-oh Jimin- I- I must've been lost in thought." Jungkook blushed a little, making Jimin smile more. Jimin shot some people looking small glances, before putting his full attention on Jungkook. "I'm writing down some final things we need for tomorrow and then preparing for our hunt. A couple of our hunters will have to sit it out, so I'm just thinking it all over."

"Ah, so busy with work." Jimin pouted. "You haven't visited as much."

"I've been busy, I'm sorry angel." Jungkook closed his notebook and kissed his forehead. "I've got plenty of jobs that I'm in charge of."

"What are you doing today? Maybe I can help?" Jimin smiled happily, looking up at Jungkook.

"Mmm...let me think..." Jungkook thought for a moment before smiling as well. "You can't speed up the process, but you can come along and help pick things with me?"

"Sure! What do you need to pick?"

"Flowers, colors, jewels, and shells. Those are our main priority for the ceremony."

"Where do you have it? Surely not in the snow." Jimin walked with Jungkook, his notebook open again.

"We have it in the barn. Like a harvest party slash barn party. It's the feast before a hunt, so nothing goes bad before we get new food." Jungkook smiled. "You'll see it."

They entered the same flower shop that Jimin was originally in. "Ah! Jungkook, wanna look at the final arrangements? We'll send them over as soon as you give the go." The florist smiled at the two of them. "Helping out Jimin? Tell me what flowers you'd like as a welcome gift and I'm sure this lovely man here will make sure you get double." She teased them, making Jimin laugh, but Jungkook blush.

"L-let me take a look at them." He mumbled to Jimin right after, "and if you want anything I'll make sure you have it." He went to the back room to look at the arrangements.

Jimin smiled, looking around the shop again. He thought they all looked beautiful, so it was hard to choose any. He was staring at the plants when Jungkook came back. "They look perfect as always, send them over." He smiled, going over to Jimin. "Made a decision yet?"

"Mmm...no. I'm not sure yet. I haven't seen so many beautiful flowers before."

"I can't wait till you see summer then. That's when you can get a tiger lily." Jungkook smiled, tugging on Jimin's sleeve to make him come along and follow him.

They walked to their next place. "Your favorite flower is a tiger lily?"

Jungkook nodded, smiling at him. "They're special to me."

"I'll keep that in mind." Jungkook gave him a small look of admiration before entering the next store.

"Oh perfect! Jungkook, same as usual. The gems and stones are ready to head over, as soon as you say so."

"Perfect. Let me take a look." Jungkook went into the back room again.

Jimin took a glance around, then looked at the cashier. "What are the stones for?"

"We use them as gifts and a way to tell the person we wish to be with what their future as their mate will be like. Some people choose a gold nugget to show they will give them wealth in the future, while others might choose a rose quartz to show they will give them unconditional love. Every one has a different meaning." They smiled. "It's also a chance for the younger's to learn about them."

"That's so cool...do you exchange a lot of things?"

"Mhm, flowers are used for flower crowns sometimes, shells are given to promise protection, or, it's all for aesthetic. Whatever the person pleases."

"So kinda for fun?"

"Yeah. It can be for fun. Besides, it's a happy day, nothing less nothing more. It's a day to put hard feelings away and let yourself feel some love."

Jungkook came back, marking things down. "I'd put them in the moonlight for another night just in case, you can take them over before noon, right?"

"Sure thing. Sounds fine to me."

"Perfect." Jungkook smiled and motioned Jimin to follow him again. "Last place is the shells. Then we'll head to the barn."

"Why is this your job?" Jimin took Jungkook's arm, making him his escort.

"Hm? Oh, just to give me a sense of being the pack leader. Dad gives me almost half his work so I can get used to it all."

"Well, you're doing a good job."

They went through the shells, Jungkook marking down more things in his notebook, before bringing Jimin to the barn.

"Woah..." Jimin looked inside of it. It was rather large, more like a storage room than a barn, but it was lovely. There was a large empty space on the side, and chairs being set up on the opposite side. Right down the middle of the empty space and the chairs, all the way at the back, was an archway and chairs being set up in front of it.

Jungkook directed some florists, before shutting his notebook. "Give me a minute Jimin, I'm sorry, but please, look around." Jungkook gave an apologetic smile before walking off to talk to people bringing in carpets and other decorations.

Jimin looked around again. The archway at the end looked kind of special. Maybe that's where the pack leader sat. Besides that, it seemed pretty simple. On the left was where people would line up and go to the person they wanted to court or mate, and on the right was the audience.

Jimin liked the space. It was definitely going to look beautiful tomorrow.

"Jimin! May I talk to you?" A voice spoke to him, snapping him out of his viewing. It was the pack leader.

"Oh! Of course sir." Jimin bowed to him.

"I was wondering if you'd like to be our guest of honor tomorrow? We don't always get a lone stray, and I think it would be nice for you to get a good look at our traditions."

"Guest of honor? Oh wow, that sounds too kind." Jimin blushed a little.

"You've done an amazing feat. We can't thank you enough. Please, consider it at least."

"I-I will accept! T-that's just a big thank you, I wasn't expecting it."

"Wonderful! Your spot will be right under the archway then, right at the back. Sometimes people will come and say they're interested, so don't be alarmed if people gift you things."

"A-ah, okay." Jimin nodded. As much as he liked gifts...he didn't really want to court anyone other than Jungkook.

"This is grand. I've got to go, but please, if you're planning on asking anyone to court, or show interest in, let me know." He smiled, bowed, then left.

He went to Jungkook, Jimin watching the both of them converse, then watched Jungkook hand over the notebook and walk over happily to Jimin.

"Good news?"

"Good news! I'm done here. But, sad news, I'm not done with my tasks today." Jungkook sighed a little.

"Which is?"

"Watchtower duty." Jungkook led Jimin outside of the bustling barn.

"Oh?"

"Yeah. It's the tall tower at the edge, so we can see any threats. There's one on each of two borders. East and North."

"Ah. I could...keep you company?" Jimin offered. "I don't have anything else today."

"It's cold up there, I wouldn't want you to suffer through it." Jungkook looked over Jimin. "You definitely don't have warm enough clothes right now."

"And you do?"

"I- I was going to change first at least." Jungkook smiled a little. "Do you...want a change of clothes too? You can borrow mine."

"If you don't mind me staying with you." Jimin smiled back, loving how Jungkook reacted to him.

"Oh no, I don't mind. It just gets a little boring is all." Jungkook picked at his peach fuzz, looking away with a smile. "I'm happy you want to be with me though."

"Maybe I can make it less boring. What do you do up there?"

"I just watch. Pick up noises, movement, scents. We don't really have much trouble though, the other packs in the land don't bother us anymore."

"Why not?"

"Hm? Oh, I was born." Jungkook walked them to his house, both realizing Jimin hadn't been there before. "Let's...go through the back door."

"Hm? Why-" Jungkook took Jimin's hand and pulled him to the side, before the two could be seen by the line of people outside. He moved them slowly around to the back, going inside carefully, and leading Jimin upstairs. "This place is huge..." Jimin whispered.

"It's mostly storage for projects. Lots of blueprints and books." Jungkook whispered back, going into what Jimin assumed was his room, and quietly closed the door. "Whew, I forgot there was going to be people here today."

Jimin laughed a little. "How?"

"I- I was just thinking about you, that's all." Jungkook blushed and looked away, going to his closet. He started to change, taking his coat and shirt off, making Jimin look away.

"A-at least give a warning!" He covered his eyes with his hands, his cheeks heating up.

"Hm? Oh- uh, sorry?" Jungkook changed his shirt, then got a heavier coat. "Um, I'll pick some clothes out for you, and I can look away for you."

"I didn't think you'd be so comfortable..." Jimin felt embarrassed seeing any part of his skin. He'd only seen him wearing long sleeves and sweaters, after all, it was winter. Jimin felt even more embarrassed now that he remembered that Jungkook had seen him though.

A part of him wanted Jungkook to see how much better he was doing. The logical part though, was way too scared of Jungkook's reaction. Sure he'd had a lot of time to be with his wolf, but still...when he saw Jimin that vulnerable last time he went on a small rampage.

Jimin must've been spacing out as Jungkook called out to him. "Jimin? You good there?"

"Hm? Oh yeah, I'm okay." Jimin felt a little flustered, seeing the clothes Jungkook put on his bed.

"Well, I'll look away now, so you can get dressed."

Trust.

Jimin felt a shiver go down his spine. His wolf was being quiet, but giving him a nudge forward. "W-well, I don't mind if you look." Jimin spoke quietly, giving Jungkook a small glance before looking down.

"Ah, but you can't look at me?" Jungkook smiled a little. "You're cute." He sat on his bed, looking at Jimin. "You sure? You don't have to."

"No it's okay. Because then- well- I want you to." Jimin blushed, slowly taking off his shirt. He looked at his arms, seeing that his bruises and cuts were much smaller and less dark. "S-see? I'm looking much better, aren't I?" Jimin became even darker as he looked up at Jungkook.

He looked over Jimin's skin, reaching out and taking his hand. "Do you feel better? Is being here helping you?" His eyes were wide, yet somehow sad, which made Jimin feel loved.

"I do. I feel so much better. I can't thank you enough."

"Oh you don't have to thank me." Jungkook smiled at him, pulling him closer. "I was just doing my job. Thank you for trusting me."

Jimin couldn't help the pink on his cheeks going to his ears as Jungkook looked over him again. "O-of course."

"Can I hug you?" Jungkook looked up at him. "Are you cold?"

"I'm not cold yet. And yes, you can hug me." Jimin moved a little closer so Jungkook could hug him. He burrowed in his face into Jimin's stomach, hugging him tight.

"I'm glad...that you're doing better. I promise you Jimin, I'll keep you safe and never let you get hurt. I promise you, I'll make sure you never get hurt." Jungkook sounded like he might cry, making Jimin feel responsible. He pet his hair.

"You're kind Jungkook...you're so very kind. I know you'll protect me, I have no doubt in my mind."

"Please..." Jungkook nearly whispered, Jimin barely able to hear him. "Please let me court you."

"Not yet. Not until my people are safe."

"Why can't you be selfish for just one moment? I want to court you Jimin..."

"I don't deserve it until my people are safe. They're still suffering. I can't be pampered until they can be too." Jimin spoke softly, petting Jungkook's hair. "You know this. I've said it a lot."

"I know. I just- I just want you to be mine. I don't want anyone else to have a chance or think they have a chance."

"I'm sure they don't. Not with all the attention you give me." Jimin giggled a little, then shivered. "Ah, alright let me get dressed now, it's getting cold."

Jungkook was relatively quiet the rest of the day, besides when he explained what he did in their watchtower, but often, Jimin would catch him with this far off look. He didn't question it, but it did make him worry for him. Jimin understood it all now. Of course his pack was slightly afraid of Jungkook.

No matter how kind he was, there was always going to be a harmful wolf inside of him, and when he stared off like that, Jimin swore he could tell that Jungkook was thinking the same thing.

____

Jungkook wasn't able to stay the night with Jimin, but he made sure he was there in the morning.

"Oh god, you're dressed to the nines." Jimin averted his eyes as soon as Jungkook came inside his room. "I- I only have your clothes so they're a little bit big-"

"Here." Jungkook handed him a bag, looking to the side, embarrassed to gift him things. "S-since it's your first time...I- I got you some nice clothes. Coat and all."

Jimin took it slowly. "Jungkook, you didn't have to."

"I thought it was appropriate. A-anyways, I'll be waiting in the lobby when you're ready to head over." Jungkook mumbled and left, feeling his own embarrassment double as he heard Jimin giggle a little.

Jungkook was getting used to being with Jimin, but there were still things he wasn't quite used to. Gifting wasn't his forte, but Jimin deserved it, so he did it.

He patiently sat in the lobby, ignoring the bustling energy. He was just excited to see Jimin in his new clothes.

When Jimin came out, Jungkook stood up and smiled wide. "You look lovely Jimin!"

"It's- it's really nice, isn't it? You didn't have to get this-"

"Consider it a gift." Jungkook blushed a little, but couldn't look away. Jimin wore the given robes, a lovely golden-yellow, with some detailed flower designs. Around his shoulders, he wore Jungkook's coat he gave him on the first night he'd met him.

"It's...it feels expensive, I don't know." Jimin looked at Jungkook's clothes. "Compared to yours I just- I feel like I'll stand out."

"You're supposed to. You're the guest of honor." Jungkook took his hand and kissed it. "You're special Jimin, so you're going to stand out anyways."

"Ah, how awful. You might just have to make everyone back away, you never know." Jimin raised a playful eyebrow, making Jungkook laugh.

"Don't worry. They won't bother you. Shall we?" Jungkook offered his arm, Jimin taking it, and the two walking to the barn, and ceremony.

Upon getting there, Jungkook could hear the noise inside. The elders had already settled in by the archway, while some of the older folks were settling into their chairs while those who had signed up to be in the ceremony were trickling in.

"Oh wow, it's beautiful." Jimin looked around, his eyes smiling.

"You get the best view." Jungkook led him to the archway. "You get a nice pillow and all. And don't worry, the elders will keep you company." Jungkook smiled at him. "Now I gotta get in there, but wave at me if you need me, okay?"

"Wait, Jungkook, you never told me why you're still in the ceremony." Jimin pursed his lips.

"Don't worry." Jungkook took his hand and kissed it again. "Take your seat, I've gotta call everyone in."

"Jungkook-" Jimin looked concerned.

"I gotta go, but don't worry, okay?" Jungkook let go of his hand and left, hearing only a small huff from Jimin.

He went to the barn doors, looking out to see if anyone else was coming in, then called out. "Last call! We're closing the doors!" He watched some people pick up their pace. Jungkook made sure no one else was outside, then closed the doors.

He lined up with the other alphas and betas, seeing all of the omegas on the other side.

His father started talking, saying how the thing worked, alphas and betas giving their interest, then the omegas making the final choice. He introduced Jimin as their guest of honor and new pack member. Then, he let the ceremony begin. The alphas and betas went to give their interest in who they wished to be with, giving gifts and words, while some older couples renewed their vows.

Jungkook stayed still, knowing he was getting some looks by doing so.

When the alphas went back into their line, the omegas went forward to present their own gifts and interests. Jungkook felt bad as he received some attention and gifts, thanking them, but shaking his head to each one that asked for his hand. He looked over to see Jimin's reaction, who was obviously ticked off, then looked away when they met eyes.

Jungkook smiled to himself, then finally heard the words that Jungkook had been waiting to hear.

"Would anyone like to present themselves to our guest of honor?"

Jungkook moved forward, glaring at anyone else who might dare to step forward as well.

The crowd nearly became quiet, a small chatter and murmer filling the barn. "I would." Jungkook spoke boldly, looking around one more time to be certain that no one else was going to step forward, before making his way to Jimin.

When he reached Jimin, he was grinning ear to ear. Jimin on the other hand, was beet red and glaring. "What are you doing?" He whispered when Jungkook reached him. "We agreed not to mate yet!" He angrily whisper-yelled, making sure to be quiet.

"Jimin, please take me seriously when I ask to be your mate." Jungkook kneeled before him on both knees, bowing. "I promise to be kind, to protect you, and to do whatever it takes to keep you happy and healthy. I promise you I'll be everything you need and more. Please accept my offer." Jungkook reached inside his robes to take out a necklace of pearls, placing it in front of Jimin. "These are my best ones, and I worked hard to make it. If you need more-"

"Jungkook." Jimin cut him off. "We said we'd wait."

"Another year is a long time." Jungkook looked up at him.

"So be it."

Jungkook looked down with a smile. "But Jimin...why did you wear my coat instead of the one that went with the robes?"

"I- you brat." Jungkook looked up to see Jimin become even more red, reaching his ears. "I- it was to keep others away. N-not to give you permission."

"How was I supposed to know that? Wearing the others clothing is pretty much saying yes, I know you know that." Jungkook pouted.

"I'm not saying yes! Don't assume anything, just be patient."

"Another year?!" Jungkook sighed heavily. "Will you at least accept my gift?"

"I- it's too much Jungkook, I can't-"

"Please. Please, be selfish." Jungkook looked at him with wide, pouting eyes.

"I-" Jimin paused, then sighed. "Okay. I accept your gift."

"There's more to come as well. I'll prove to you I'm worthy of being your mate." Jungkook slowly stood and put the necklace over Jimin's neck.

"You already have...?"

"Obviously I haven't."

"That isn't about you."

"Then I'll make it about me." Jungkook turned from Jimin and went back to his spot, getting looks and hearing the obvious chatter.

His father made the last little speech, asking those who were going to be newly mated to go to him so they could find their desired wedding dates and such, while the food was brought in.

Taehyung clapped him on the back. "Did you just get rejected?"

"Mmm, half. Half rejected. Not this year, but next." Jungkook sighed. "But at least I gave it a shot."

Taehyung laughed. "Oh, you are not going to hear the end of this."

"I know..." Jungkook sighed heavily. "I know."

Thankfully, the pack was too busy eating to really make fun of him, and before they knew it, it was getting dark.

The new couples went home together, the elders made their way home, and Jungkook waited for Jimin to be ready to leave.

"It's just so pretty." Jimin held onto Jungkook's arm as he took his final look at the place.

"You're the one who looked the best. No doubt about it."

Jimin giggled. "Oh yeah?"

"Yeah. You were the prettiest by far, and still are. Imagine competing with you, I can't even begin to think about it." Jungkook smiled at Jimin. "You'd win in a heartbeat."

Jimin blushed a little. "What's with the compliments hm?"

"I gotta say them before I head out."

"W-well don't make it sound like you're dying, fuck." Jimin looked up at him. "Isn't it just a hunt?"

"I'll be gone for a couple days. Three at most. And you'll be settling into your house, won't you?" Jungkook sighed a little. "I wish I could help you settle in."

"It's fine. You'll get to see it when you come back."

Jungkook didn't want to give Jimin any more concern, so he dropped the subject. He was worried about going out with the hunters. He hadn't shifted since that night, and for good reason. It was still scary to think about, since he couldn't even remember it. All he knew was he was calmed once he was with Jimin, the rest was a blur.

Jimin had been leading him back to the hospital while he was lost in thought, and truly, he was going to miss him. All Jungkook could hope for was that he wouldn't do anything stupid while he was out.

____

Jimin clung to Jungkook, not wanting him to get up and go. He didn't want him to go for three days.

"Jimin, come on. I gotta go before I can't go." Jungkook tried to sit up, but Jimin nuzzled into his chest more. Jungkook sighed. "We can cuddle all you want when I come back."

"But you're going to be gone for so long..."

"It'll be less time than when I went to the elders. I'll be back before you know it." Jungkook ruffled his hair, but Jimin simply pouted, looking up at him.

"But I'll miss you."

"The more you guilt trip me the more I'm going to want to stay." Jungkook smiled at him. "So please, don't torture me so."

Jimin scooted up. "Then promise me you'll come back safely."

"I promise." Jungkook rubbed his back. "I'll come back to you."

"Safely." Jimin glared.

"I can't promise safety, but I can promise I'll come back to you." Jungkook looked apologetic. "It's dangerous out in the woods."

"You better come back to me. Don't wait for three days, okay?" Jimin kissed him softly. "Please."

"I will. That, I can promise." Jungkook held him close for one more moment before getting up. "Promise me then, that you'll take care of yourself while I'm gone. I'm sure Taehyung is more than willing to spend time with you." He got dressed, Jimin averting his eyes, before coming back to the bed. He lifted Jimin's chin. "Okay?"

"Okay. I'll take care of myself."

"Good. I love you Jimin." Jungkook kissed him goodbye, leaving him with those words. Jimin was shocked, not expecting them to come so soon. He barely had time to process it before he heard the bell outside.

That snapped him back into reality, as he got up and hurriedly got some heavier clothes on so he could go outside. He rushed out there, trying to locate Jungkook. He saw the hunters gathered around, but he couldn't identify any of them, and before he could say anything out loud, he heard a quick. "Wish us luck!" From Jungkook before they all shifted and headed into the woods.

Jimin watched people gather the robes, and head back inside. Everything was so normal to them but Jimin couldn't help but feel anxious and something else. He couldn't even say it back.

He let go of the breath he didn't know he was holding and headed back to his room. He most definitely wasn't expecting Namjoon to be there.

"Oh! Do you need something?" Jimin was taken aback, wondering what Namjoon was doing.

"Ah, no, I just- well, I have something to tell- well, more give to you." Namjoon motioned to the bed. "Jungkook was upset that he wouldn't be here to get you settled into your new house, so he, well..." Namjoon exhaled. "Here's a gift from him."

"W-when did he..." Jimin looked at the box that was on his bed.

"Before he left. Please, don't feel bad about the size okay?"

"Ah...okay..." Jimin sighed. "Thank you. I'm sure he meant well by it."

"He does. He always does." Namjoon smiled. "I'll leave it to you then." He patted his shoulder as he walked by him.

Jimin watched him leave before looking at the box. "What did you give me..."

He went over to it, seeing the note on top. He carefully opened it.

I know I can't help you settle in, though I wished I could, but at least I can give you things for your home. I know that all you've had here is from me, so I've sent for your own things to be at your new house. Clothes, books, decorations, they will all be yours.
I desperately wish I could've done more.

Jimin felt shocked at the words. He hadn't even seen his house yet, had Jungkook already arranged things? He had seen which things he'd liked, they went to nearly every store together so it made sense.

He opened the box, seeing a lovely red rose on top of some nice sheets. There was much more under it as well. "Oh Jungkook..." Jimin felt his eyes tear up. He didn't want to be alone. What he really wanted was for Jungkook to be with him.

Instead, he went through the box, smiling at the gifts inside. At least he had something to remind him of Jungkook.

____

Taehyung helped Jimin set up his house. They'd spend the first two days setting things up, and were using this third one to finish up.

Jungkook had sent over boxes of the things that Jimin had looked at a little longer than the rest of the items, and Jimin loved it. It kinda felt like their home instead of his own.

The two sat on the bed, relaxing finally. "When will Jungkook be back?"

"He's always last. I'd say midnight, maybe 2am? Those are times he's come back before." Taehyung mumbled, tired from their long day. "They send them back in smaller packs, so that they aren't all dragging bodies back you know? Less of a target."

"So why does Jungkook come back so late?"

"Leaders always come last. And...he sometimes brings home the biggest prey, so sometimes it takes longer to get home."

"Alone?"

"Usually."

"Oh." Jimin felt bad about that. "I don't want him to come home alone. Why doesn't he go with a small pack?"

"He's safest alone. Out of us all." Taehyung sat up on his elbows and looked him. "You worried about him? You of all people should know he can handle himself perfectly fine."

"So he's equal to...a whole pack..." Jimin exhaled all of his breath.

"Pretty much." Taehyung spoke quietly. "For the age he is, I'm surprised he hasn't wanted to become the pack leader but I guess with so many incidents happening...I'd be anxious too."

"He thinks everyone won't trust him. Says they look at him funny sometimes."

"Ah, everyone here just likes to gossip. He's just constantly a good topic." Taehyung laid back down. "But they do trust him. We all do."

"I'm glad. I trust him too." The two dozed on and off, too lazy to get up and do more things, and too tired to care about it.

It wasn't until a pained howl pierced the air.

That sent Jimin up in a panic. "Taehyung! We have to go, let's go, come on." Jimin was already up and getting a coat on. "Now!" Jimin yelled at him then left, hating the sound of the pained howl. It wasn't a good one. And it was definitely Jungkook. He was greeted by others rushing out of their houses as well, all of them finishing pulling coats and sweaters on.

It was the hunters, so Jimin scouted out Hoseok and ran up to him. "Where is he?"

"He must be in the forest, we're going to have to help him." Hoseok gave him the quick rundown he needed. "Stay with Yoongi-"

"I want to help him." Jimin shook his head, getting to the edge of the forest. He was still a little scared to go in, after all, his experiences in forests weren't good ones, but Jungkook needed him. He looked beside Hoseok to see who he assumed was Yoongi next to him. "The more help the better."

Hoseok simply nodded, the three ahead of the pack of hunters behind them.

When they ran into the forest a little bit more, they saw Jungkook's large black wolf, clawing its way closer. He was dragging a net full of bodies, limping and bloody. He gave a weak whine, still tugging forward.

Jimin immediately ran to him faster, kneeling down beside him and making him stop moving forward. "J-Jungkook, you need to stop, we can help you get back. Stop moving." Jimin put his hands on Jungkook's face, looking into his eyes. "Stop moving."

Jungkook whined again, stopping his movement. He leaned into Jimin's hands.

"Jungkook!" Hoseok hurriedly got the net off of Jungkook, seeing what was in it. "Jesus fuck. Shit!" He motioned for the following hunters to come closer, making them take the net.

Yoongi got the others to help move Jungkook. "Alright, he's fucking heavy but we can make it. Three on each side, Jimin, stay on his head, he'll feel more comfortable seeing you."

Jimin nodded, staying where he was, as the others gathered around him. Most likely their strong men, as they slowly picked him up and moved into the town.

Jimin stayed by his head, keeping his eyes on him. The heard Taehyung say a small "oh fuck" before hearing him follow their trek to the hospital.

Taehyung opened the door for them, the pack slowly making their way to the closest room. Jungkook didn't seem to want to shift, his eyes stuck on Jimin, whimpering as they set him down on the bed. Hoseok shot a look at Taehyung, which sent him to get Jin and Namjoon.

"He needs to shift." Hoseok spoke out of breath, the pack who brought him in all breathing heavily. Jimin looked over them all, then at his own hands. There was so much blood. "If he shifts...we can help him more. The blood has matted his fur." Hoseok glanced at him. "Can you ask him to?"

"O-okay. I can ask." Jimin put his hand on Jungkook's cheek. He looked into his eyes, feeling his pain. "Please Jungkook...please shift. I know it hurts now, but we can't help you yet. We can help you once you shift. Please." Jimin felt his eyes water up, the situation finally having time to settle in. "Please."

Jin bursted in with Namjoon. "Out! Everyone out, this is an emergency, I need everyone out of the room!" He got Namjoon to bring in an extra table, setting down his tools on it. "Out!"

Everyone hurried out after that, Hoseok lingering...then stepping outside. Jimin stayed.

"Please Jungkook..." Jimin kept his focus on Jungkook, hearing him whine and whimper. He could tell what he wanted. "He doesn't want to shift Jin." Jimin looked at Jin with desperation.

"Get him to. Demand it." He rolled up his sleeves, putting in gloves, Namjoon doing the same.

"Demand it Jimin. He'll listen to you." Namjoon organized their tools, taking the coverings off.

Jimin looked back at Jungkook. He was still staring at him, his breath shaky. "Jungkook...I need you to shift for me." Jimin spoke quietly, then slowly closed his eyes and put his forehead against Jungkook's. He put his hands on his cheeks. "Please. I need you to shift."

Jungkook whined.

"Damnit Jungkook, shift!" Jimin felt his tears fall, right onto Jungkook.

He shifted immediately, reaching out to touch Jimin but yelled out. "Ah! Fuck, Jimin I!-" he coughed out, curling into himself a little.

Jin quickly put a sheet over his lower half as he grabbed the back of Jungkook's neck and lowered him onto the bed. "Lay Jungkook, you need to lay down."

"J-Jimin-" Jungkook tried to reach out to him again, but Jin grabbed his wrist lightly and moved it down.

"Don't raise your arms. Jimin, go to the other side please. If you wish to stay." Jimin moved quickly to the other side, Jungkook's head following him.

"Jimin I'm- I'm sorry-"

"Don't." Jimin shushed him. "Don't apologize. Just relax." He grabbed his hand, making sure his arm wasn't raised.

Jungkook nodded, closing his eyes and squeezing Jimin's hand.

Jin started to clean the wounds, Jungkook wincing and yelling out. "Ow! Hyung!" Jungkook tried to sit up but Namjoon put a hand on his forehead, keeping him down.

"Alcohol will burn Jungkook." He got a wet towel and put it on Jungkook's forehead while Jin disinfected the wounds on his chest.

"We'll need to take immediate action on his chest Joonie. His limbs can wait."

Jimin finally took a look at his body, fighting the urge to cry more. He hated it so much. He couldn't stand seeing Jungkook so hurt. His chest had one large, deep claw slash. It looked painful, Jimin wishing he could help. But he couldn't do anything more than hold his hand.

Jin cleaned the blood with another wash towel, as Namjoon got a needle out.

"Hyung n-no I don't want-"

"No Jungkook. It's more than something a bandage can fix." Namjoon made sure he had what he needed. "Take a breath Jungkook, don't hurt yourself though, then let it out. I'll start when you let it out."

Jungkook squeezed Jimin's hand and took a small breath before letting it out.

Namjoon started, Jungkook looking at Jimin the whole time. Jimin put his other hand over Jungkook's, both of them staring at each other, Jungkook obviously gritting his teeth, Jimin obviously trying not to cry.

It felt like forever, before Namjoon put his needle down. "Okay. Let's take a look at your arms and legs." He looked over them carefully, cleaning up some cuts and scratches. "Let me help you sit up. Then we can bandage you up."

Jin and Namjoon helped Jungkook sit up, his eyes never leaving Jimin.

"Oh fucking hell..." Jin got the alcohol again, dabbing the cotton ball against Jungkook's wound there.

Jungkook winced again, closing his eyes.

They cleaned it, then put bandages around his abdomen, covering his back and chest. They took another look at him, cleaning the scratches on his face, checking his scalp and finally cleaning up. They wiped off his sweat.

"I'll make a quick dinner. Jimin...stay with him. If he sleeps, don't let anyone in." Jin and Namjoon were definitely on work mode. Jimin nodded.

They cleaned the table, moving out and leaving Jimin alone with Jungkook.

He laid down, exhaling heavily. "I'm sorry Jimin." He whispered. "I...I went too far."

"Is this why you couldn't promise me safety?"

"I..." Jungkook bit back his tears, Jimin moving closer to him. He kissed his forehead. "I didn't mean...for it to go this far..."

"Jungkook. Talk when you're okay. For now, you need to rest."

"In...bed." Jungkook was definitely trying to keep it together. "Please."

"Jungkook." Jimin shook his head. "I don't want to hurt you. I'll stay here though."

"Please." Jungkook spoke weakly, reaching out and wincing. "I- I want you Jimin. Please."

"I'm right here. But if I get in your bed, you'll feel bad because you won't be able to move. So I'll be right here."

"I want you by me. Against...against me." Jungkook still seemed like he was holding back tears. "Please."

"Jungkook." Jimin leaned down and kissed the hand he was holding. "Rest." He debated saying the words he wanted Jungkook to hear. "Please."

"Jimin..." Jungkook looked away from him for the first time. "I'm sorry."

"Why would you be sorry?"

"I took more than I could chew. I- I wanted to show you...fuck, I'm so stupid." Jungkook's bottom lip started to wobble. "I wanted to show you I'm good enough. That I'm together. That I'll be- be a good mate." Jungkook sniffed, his eyes watering. "And I'm-"

"You're perfect Jungkook." Jimin stopped his thoughts from crumbling further. "I know you're a perfect mate. You...don't have to prove that to me. I already know I want to be your mate...and I already know that I want you to be mine."

"Jimin...I'm..." Jungkook couldn't look at him now, his voice cracking.

"Jungkook." Jimin stood up and moved closer, leaning down and kissing him on the forehead. "You're perfect, okay? You're perfect for me."

"Jimin..." Jungkook tried to reach up and touch his face, but winced and cried out. "Fuck."

"Ahh, Jungkook, don't. I'm right here, don't worry." Jimin put his arm down, then sat on the bed next to him. He held his hand. "Please. Rest. I'll- I might lay with you. But you're in too much discomfort to do much."

"I- I just feel so bad." Jungkook closed his eyes. "For everything."

"But Jungkook-"

"Jimin, I don't know if I'll be a good mate." Jungkook spoke quickly, squeezing his eyes shut. "I'm afraid...I'm afraid that I'll be bad."

"But- but Jungkook, I love you." Jimin said it. He said what he wanted to say, and what he'd been holding onto for the entirety of Jungkook's hunting trip. "I love you so much. So whatever you think, whatever you say...I will give myself to you when I am able to. And to know you're mine...is comforting. I just wish you could find comfort in me." Jimin kissed Jungkook's forehead again.

Jungkook finally cried, Jimin wiping his tears away. He could only speak in hiccups, so Jimin didn't understand it well. When Jungkook stopped, but was absolutely exhausted. His body seemed about ready to collapse.

Jin came back in with a small bowl. "Hey...he okay?"

"As okay as he can be." Jimin looked at Jungkook, who sniffed.

"...did you tell my dad?" He pouted and looked down. "I've fucked up so much this past month..." he sighed. "You did, didn't you?"

"I did. I sent a couple hunters to give a report. We're all just glad you're home." Jin sat down. "I'm...going to have feed you Jungkook. So let's sit up, okay?" He shot Jimin a look, and the two helped him sit up.

"Fuck." Jungkook gasped and winced as he slowly sat up, trying to catch his breath. "Fuck me."

Jin apologized, then started to feed him. Jimin watched patiently, still holding Jungkook's hand. He fed him slowly, no words being spoke. Just Jungkook's sniffs here and there.

Jimin looked over him, trying to read the energy. It seemed like Jungkook wasn't going to say anything while Jin was here. He was simply complicit.

When Jin finished, he sighed. He started to move Jungkook back down. "Jungkook...you're going to have to rest for a lot longer than you think. I'm sure Jimin will be willing to stay with you, but you're going to be spending most of your time sleeping. Even now...you're falling out on me." Jin spoke quietly, then looked away. "Please rest. For all of us."

Jimin could read the room. Of course he was worried for him. If nothing had touched Jungkook before, then what could've possibly done this?

"Thank you hyung. I'll rest." Jungkook spoke quietly. "I will."

"Will you stay Jimin? If not-"

"I'm staying." Jimin saw Jin's tired eyes. "I'm not leaving him." They we're all stressed. "Is everyone still out there?..."

"No, I sent them home. They'll probably come back tomorrow though. Good...goodnight Jungkook, Jimin. Jimin, ring the bell if you need anything. I'll come quickly." Jin stood and took another look over Jungkook.

"Goodnight Jin." Jimin smiled at him. "Thank you."

"Goodnight hyung." Jungkook spoke quietly.

Jin left, leaving the two alone.

Jungkook immediately whimpered. "Jimin, please."

"Jungkook, I don't want to hurt or encourage you." Jimin shook his head, kissing his hand again. If he laid next to him, Jungkook would want to cuddle.

"I'm gunna cry Jimin." Jungkook pouted, definitely making a threat. "Please, I want you by me."

"I am." Jimin kissed his hand again. "I'm right here."

"Next to me. I- I haven't been- I want to feel you."

"I'm right here."

"Jimin let me feel you. I- I'm a coward." Jungkook did seem like he was about to cry, making Jimin move forward. "I left you with my words, and you can say them so easily. I just...want to make it real."

Jimin softened his gaze, woeful now. "I do love you Jungkook. That's not hard to say for me because I know the feeling well." Jimin smiled at him. "I know that you're warm, and you give me butterflies, and I'm safe with you. I know that when I'm with you I'm happier, that I can feel light and airy with no penalty, and that you'll care for me no matter what I say or do."

"But I'm- I'm not-" Jungkook fret, his bottom lip trembling.

Jimin leaned forward and kissed him. "You're safety for me. You're not scary Jungkook. You're a goofball trapped in a ton of muscles. That's all." He laughed lightly. "So don't think you'll be a bad mate. I already know you're going to be perfect for me."

Jungkook relaxed a little. "Then...will you please sleep next to me?"

"Okay. But no quick movements, okay?" Jungkook slowly moved to the side to make room for Jimin, wincing as he went. "Gosh, maybe it's a bad idea-" Jimin fret, but Jungkook pouted.

"Please." Jungkook squeezed Jimin's hand. "Please." Jimin debated in his head, before getting in the bed next to him. "Thank you. Thank you." Jungkook repeated himself, his body seeming to finally relax. "I love you Jimin."

"I love you too Jungkook. Now please, rest." Jimin pressed himself again Jungkook, cuddling cautiously. He held onto Jungkook's arm, not wanting to touch his injured chest. "Sleep Jungkook."

Jungkook hummed happily, and quietly, before knocking out. He must've spent all of his energy.

____

Jungkook felt like he'd slept for a week straight. He'd wake up to eat, clean himself, and get his bandages changed. Then, he would go back to sleep. Some days he had enough energy to talk to Jimin, others he could take another visitor, but other than that, he was sleeping.

He could feel Jimin's worry. He could feel Jin's fear. He could feel Namjoon's want to help. He internalized it all, wishing he could ease them all, but he couldn't.

He'd gotten caught up in something bigger than he intended to.

On his first day of the hunt, they'd sent back a small group with a net full of a successful hunt. The rest of them had spend the night huddled together to keep warm. The second night, he'd sent back a larger group to take back a larger net of a successful hunt. He'd also sent back anyone who was struggling. On the third night...he'd split off with the final group, sending them off to finish their hunt while he would go do his own.

Perhaps, the goal he wanted to fight was too large. Perhaps it was too much optimism, but he found a bear cave, and...well, a bear was quite admirable.

Yes. Take it home. Prove yourself.

His wolf was guiding him forward, and besides, the beast was sleeping, it wouldn't be so hard, would it?

What Jungkook wasn't expecting, was another group of wolves to have the same idea. He immediately defended himself, hoping the three wolves would back off.

They didn't.

They went on the attack immediately, circling him, trying to bite and claw at him. Jungkook felt the claw marks on his back legs, making him jump at whoever was in front of him. With one down, Jungkook watched the other two with a small limp. Nothing that would make him unable to win.

The howls the other two made though, were enough to wake the fucking bear. Maybe they did it on purpose. Maybe they were just in pain. But now that he was injured and tired, cold, and hungry, he had to attack the woken bear.

It was mad.

Jungkook couldn't exactly pretend to be swift with his limp and injured state, and it showed. Jungkook got a couple good hits on it before it found an opening and slashed across Jungkook's chest.

He howled in pain, jumping backwards. He tried to collect himself, but he could feel the blood trickling out of him, and he could see it drop on the snow.

The bear seemed weakened as well, but it wasn't going to leave him alone. So Jungkook lured it to the trees, so he could weave between them and attack while the bear couldn't.

It took longer than he anticipated, and getting all the bodies in his net was what took the longest. His adrenaline had worn off and the pain had settled in. His limp was pretty bad, the claw mark on his chest was painful, and it was hard to breathe.

The trudge back to the village was rough. It was colder now, harder to breathe, tiring, and by god was he hungry. The trail of blood he was leaving also wasn't a good sign. He whimpered as he went, trying to get back. It felt like forever before he found a familiar path, howling then and there. He kept moving, needing to get back to them, needing to get back to Jimin. His wolf was desperate to find comfort, desperate to relax, desperate to feel Jimin's love.

That made him get through. He had to hear Jimin's voice again. Had to feel his touch again, his soft words, his laugh, his energy, his lips. He had to play with his hair again, had to walk around the town with him again, eat dinner together, sleep together. He had to get through for Jimin.

He let out another pained howl as he got closer, trudging, trudging through the snow. Jimin was all he had on his mind.

And now that he was with him again, he didn't seem to need anything else. He was content.

Jimin was still asleep by the time Jungkook had woken up. He smiled, wanting to play with his hair, but raising his arms high was still a little hard to do.

Instead he tightened his grip on his waist, pulling him closer. He was content. He couldn't ask for more, really, except for maybe not to be injured, but hey, at least he had Jimin.

At least he had Jimin.

It wasn't for another week of recovery did Jungkook have enough energy to stay up for more than 2 hours. He could sit up on his own and finally raise his arms.

Jimin seemed excited about that.

"Good! Good good, we can eat together now." Jimin smiled happily as he set down their tray. "Jin said this soup is your favorite, so you better heal quickly."

Jungkook laughed. "I have been. I'm feeling better already."

"Good." Jimin smiled happily as they ate. "It's still funny to think how we traded places. I'm happy to help you though...and to help around. I'm meeting a lot of people because of you."

"I'm glad someone's getting good out of this. It's kinda nice to have people visiting me, but I do feel bad about it."

"It wasn't exactly your fault." Jimin tsk'd. "You shouldn't have been alone though."

"I always send everyone home first. I can handle myself."

"You shouldn't have to though." Jimin pouted. "So what if you're a big strong man, you can still get help."

"Well, it's more important to me that everyone gets home safely. I just want them to be safe." Jungkook finished his food quickly, hungry for Jin's food. "That's all."

"But what about your safety?" Jimin pouted more, making Jungkook smile.

"I'm here, aren't I?" Jungkook watched Jimin's lips. The more he pouted the more he wanted to kiss him. Jimin had been careful around him, which made Jungkook feel needy. He desperately wanted more of Jimin's touch and affection. He couldn't quite look away from Jimin's lips.

"Jungkook? You good there?" Jimin smiled at him softly.

"Hm? Yeah, I'm good. Just thinking." Jungkook hummed.

"Ah, I see." Jimin smiled more. "Have I been too careful? Mmm, but you seem in so much pain still." Jimin cleaned their space. "I don't want to do anything that will hurt you."

"It won't. I'm just feeling touchy is all." Jungkook mumbled, looking down.

"Mm, you have been." Jimin smiled. "Well, if you're feeling better then I might be willing. But if you aren't, then I won't."

"I am feeling better!" Jungkook leaned forward then blushed in his excitement. "I- I am."

Jimin cooed. "You're cute. The answer is maybe." Jimin stood up and booped his nose, then took their tray and left.

Jungkook sighed heavily and tried to erase his embarrassment. He adjusted himself, feeling his chest. It hurt a little, but he was healing easily. He needed some time with Jimin was all.

When Jimin came back he was ready for bed, rubbing his eyes sleepily. "Did ya wait for me? It's late, you should be sleeping."

"Aww, you took a bath without me?" Jungkook pouted, teasing him.

"Pshh, come on, you should rest." Jimin got into the bed, cuddling up to him.

Jungkook stayed sitting up. "I'm not that tired though."

"Jungkook...you need rest."

"I just really want to kiss you Jimin." Jungkook confessed, pouting more.

"You need rest."

"I've had enough of resting."

Jimin laughed. "What are you thinking about?" He sat up a bit, using Jungkook's thigh as a push.

"Mmmm, just thinking about you." Jungkook watched Jimin sit up and move on top of him.

"What part of me were you thinking about?"

Jungkook laughed a little. "All of you. All the time." He put his hands around Jimin's waist. "I just miss you is all."

"Yeah? I've been with you almost the whole time though." Jimin ran his hands through Jungkook's hair, then crossed them behind his head. "Why've you gotten needy lately?"

"Mmmm, I dunnoooo, I just want you closer. I wanna feel closer to you." Jungkook looked up at Jimin. "Is that okay?"

"Mmm, I don't mind. It's cute when you're needy, I'm not gunna lie." Jimin smiled, giggling a little. "You become very pliant."

"Can I touch you?" Jungkook asked honestly, really, really needy for some physical contact.

"Sure. As long as-" Jungkook ran his hand up Jimin's back, up his shirt, as his other slid under his waistband. "A-as long as it doesn't h-hurt." Jimin blushed.

"It won't. I've been healing very nicely because of you. Care to spoil me?" Jungkook smiled, his hands...exploring.

"I- I could perhaps spoil you a little bit." Jimin's cheeks darkened, then he gave a small yelp. "J-Jungkook!"

"Shh, we don't want to concern anyone." Jungkook smiled wider, looking at Jimin's lips. "Maybe if we kiss we won't be as loud?"

"You're sneaky. You're a sneaky little bas-" Jimin glared, but Jungkook leaned forward and kissed him, cutting him off while his hands moved around.

Jimin kissed back, shivering when Jungkook's hand went up and down his shirt. "You're so beautiful Jimin." Jungkook spoke quietly in between their kissing, his hand holding Jimin's waist, then slowly moved up. "You're so perfect."

Jimin blushed more, his cheeks a dark red. "J-Jungkook." He spoke in a near whimper. "Y-you- I didn't know you were this in need- I-"

Jungkook loved watching Jimin be embarrassed. He thumbed over Jimin's nipple, his other hand playing with his ass. Jimin gasped. "Mm? How could you not know? I've been telling you how much I want you."

"I- I didn't- I didn't know you were holding back so much." Jimin huffed, then rested his head on Jungkook's shoulder. "Y-you're holding back a lot, aren't you?"

Jungkook kept his hands moving, slowly, rhythmically. He felt Jimin shudder, which made him grin. "I am." He started to move Jimin's pants down. "I have been. I missed you a lot while I was gone. I seem to be gone a lot."

"N-no, it's for good reasons, and n-now you need to rest and heal." Jimin raised his head and gasped, grabbing onto Jungkook's shoulders. "J-Jungkook! You're te-testing me." He tried to glare, but the blush made Jungkook smile more.

"How so?" Jungkook kept thumbing over Jimin's nipple, his other hand on Jimin's ass. "Is it too much?"

"N-no, I-" Jimin gripped Jungkook's shoulders harder. "It's not too much, not enough you brat." Jimin glared. "You're not the only one who's been holding back. You wouldn't even kiss me before, why are you so ea-eager now?"

Jungkook moved his hand from Jimin's chest to his ass, using both his hands now. "Mmmm, I missed you a lot during my outing...I just wanted to be with you. And maybe I'm thinking with my dick, but I've wanted to touch you for a while. You've been very kind to me, indulging me, but I just seem to want more."

"Y-you still want more?"

"I do." Jungkook nodded, kissing Jimin. "D...don't you?" Jungkook blushed a little, looking for a reaction.

Jimin pressed his ass into Jungkook's hands. "I do. But...I'd like to wait till we're mated to have sex. I don't mind some...playing around though." He kissed Jungkook. "Especially if you're feeling needy."

"Oh I am. I'm feeling very needy." Jungkook smiled at Jimin. "You're so kind to me Jimin."

"I like spoiling you. Though you do it much more often for me."

"We can offer different things."

"Mmm." Jimin kissed him again, this time making it longer and much more needy. He moved against Jungkook's hands, Jungkook slowly moving his hands to Jimin's hips, so that he would grind against his clothed cock instead. "A-ah, Jungkook." Jimin nearly whined. "Y-you're being very forward."

Jungkook nuzzled into the crook of Jimin's neck, kissing here and there. "Sorry."

"N-no, you don't have to apologize, I'm just not used to it from you." Jimin ran his hand through Jungkook's hair. "You're not always so touchy."

"Maybe I'm desperate." Jungkook chirped, then nibbled on Jimin's skin. "Dunno. I just wanna be near you. You know. Close."

"You feeling okay?"

Jungkook nodded. "I am feeling okay." He kept nibbling, wanting to leave a bite mark. "Just kinda thinking about you."

"Mmm...I can indulge you a little more, okay? Just a little more." Jimin laughed a little. "Scent me."

Jungkook gasped. "Really? You'll let me?"

"I want you to."

"You're lovely. You know that?" Jungkook kept kissing his neck.

"I do! I'm very lovely." Jimin giggled, Jungkook starting to scent him. "Mmm~"

"Yes you are." Jungkook finished scenting Jimin, kissing him softly on his neck. "You're so very lovely. I love you so much." He kept kissing and marking Jimin's neck.

Jimin giggled more, playing with Jungkook's hair. "You're cute."

"Me? Oh no, it's you my love. It's most definitely you."

The two spent the night in whispered giggles, talking about what might happen when they mate. Jungkook wanted to move in with Jimin, while Jimin was excited for a large bed.

____

Jungkook was a promise keeper.

And he promised Jimin he'd help him help his people.

While he was able to stand and move around, Jungkook was working with his father and close hunters on his plan. Jimin would lead them there, then the hunters would sneak around, half making a rescue mission with Jimin, the other half making a commotion and ready to be on the offense, that side Jungkook would lead.

"They're a small group. Maybe 20 of them? There were even less of us, and I'm not sure if they got any more people. I know some will want to find their old packs, but others might want to stay. I'm willing to give my time to each and every one of them if you'll let them recover here. I'll help Jin daily, and nightly." Jimin explained himself to the pack leader.

"Of course I'm willing to help those who are in need of help. What I'm worried about is this counts as an act of war. It's unethical." He hummed, looking at the papers on the table between him, and Jungkook and Jimin.

"What they did and are still doing to omegas is not only unethical, but completely inhuman! I had it worse, but they were barely handling it! Do you know what-" Jimin stopped himself, calming down. "You don't know what I've had to go through to be here. If I have the option to help them, I will. And I do have that option! I made a plan. All I'm asking for is your help."

"They're not a pack, they're just all strung together with the same beliefs. They aren't a pack." Jungkook explained. "They don't hunt together. They don't live together. They take advantage and use omegas."

"What war would be started?" Jimin pointed at the map, but stared at the pack leader. "They're small. There's no community. No hunters. No society. What makes a pack a pack? Is that what you're worried about? There isn't going to be a war because there won't be anyone left." Jimin slammed his hand on the table.

The pack leader looked between the two, then smiled. "Jungkook, I really didn't expect you to pick someone so assertive."

Jungkook blushed a little. "W-will you allow it?"

"I'll allow it. When are you planning this event to...take place?"

"After Jungkook's healed. Give or take another week." Jimin stood up straight, crossing his arms.

"Mm...then I'll make an announcement. Jungkook, you should inform the hunters. This is definitely something different than what they're used to. This is a search and rescue." He took another look at the map on the table. "That'll probably be a day trip."

"With less snow, it'll be a little less."

"Then prepare. We can go two days without food, but without water will be harsh." He sat down and thought. "Give me time to finalize things. Next week, we'll leave at sunrise."

"Thank you sir." Jimin bowed.

"Ah, any concern of a pack member is a concern of mine. Besides...my son trusts you." He smiled at the two of them.

Jimin smiled back. Jungkook bowed quickly. "Thank you dad."

He nodded at them, the two taking that as their queue to leave.

Jimin let out a breath. "Fuck I wasn't sure how that was going to go. Sorry for snapping at him."

"Pshh, it's fine. Besides, one day you'll be his son-in-law."

"Ahhhh, we can think about that later. For now we're going to be busy. I'm going to have to tell you a lot more."

"Well, that can wait too. You did so much already today."

"But-"

"No buts! Don't over work yourself."

"I'm not...?"

"Mmm you are a little bit. You were worried about this all day and now it's done. You've gotta relax now. Doctors orders." Jungkook bumped their shoulders together.

"Ahh, I see." Jimin laughed. "You just want to come over, don't you?"

"I've been feeling so good lately! I wanna relax at your place."

"Relax does not mean relax with you." Jimin gave him a playful glare.

"Mmm, maybe." Jungkook smiled in response.

"Aish, you're insufferable- ah!" Jungkook picked Jimin up and flung him over his shoulder. "Jungkook!" Jimin laughed.

"Oh no! Whatever shall we do. I might just have to walk you home."

Jimin laughed more. "Jungkook! You've still got to rest well!"

"Oh we'll be resting just fine."

Jimin giggled more. Jungkook was lovely. Absolutely lovely.

____

Jimin dreaded the day they had to make their way to his last pack. He didn't even want to count them as a pack. Nor did he want to be included in their life, but he had to help the others.

Spring had melted the snow away, and the hunters followed Jimin, who was leading them. Jungkook was beside him, nudging him here and there to tell him it was all alright. They were going to be fine. Everyone was going to be fine.

Jimin had to keep telling himself that.

They'll still be fine. He didn't take too long to get back to them, did he? It was winter. It could've been longer. They'll be fine, they have to be fine.

Jungkook bumped their shoulders together again, making him worry less.

Right. He had help now.

Besides, it was kinda nice being out as his wolf with Jungkook and the pack. It was nice to be with Jungkook as their wolves. They both stood out, especially together, Jimin's bright white against the green grass, Jungkook's large bourse black body standing out in every situation.

The two were hard to ignore. Especially together.

Jimin felt safe with him, as they approached the area that Jimin had been dreading to remember. He was never allowed out this far, and whenever he was out this far, it was an attempted escape. Jungkook bumped his shoulder again, bringing him back to the present. Right. He didn't want to be thinking about his past.

He nudged Jungkook back, giving him a low whine. They were close enough to need to be careful. Jungkook signaled that to the others, the group starting to split up, those who were on the search and rescue going to one side, the others who would follow Jungkook going to the other.

Jimin came to a slow stop once he got to the outskirts of the small town. If they peered through the dense trees, you could see a couple houses.

Jimin kept low to the ground, knowing that they would be waiting for nightfall to attack. Right when they would get back from their daily outing. Right when they were tired.

Their first part of the mission, was get as many omegas out as they could before the pack came back. Jungkook stayed with his group as Jimin and his group stalked forward, slowly, listening to any sounds. They split up into two smaller groups, going into the closest two houses, some staying outside to be a watch guard, some going in to find omegas.

Jimin hoped they were all alright. He went to the back room, seeing the locks and new things keeping the door shut.

More time. Move quickly. Jimin gave a small bark to the others to spread the message. He heard a low whine from the other side of the door. Jimin gave one back, then got to work on the door, barking again to the others.

They spread out more. Two to open the locked doors, one watch guard outside for each house.

They spread out thinner, Jimin trying to get the door unlocked and opened with someone else.

He'd nearly gotten it when he heard a low howl from the watch guards, then heard the scuttle inside the houses.

The pack was here.

Jimin got the door open, seeing two omegas inside. They hurriedly went to Jimin, hiding behind him as they saw the other wolves.

"J-Jimin...did you...get help?" They teared up, Jimin looking over them, then nodded.

He needed them to feel safe. They must've understood the situation, slowly moving forward with the group.

They went to the front door, protectively keeping the omegas behind them, as they saw Jungkook out in the middle of the small town.

Jimin took a quick look around, seeing the others ready to leave the houses as well. They just needed their distraction now. Once that distraction was in place, they would scatter and the hunters would come in and make sure everyone could get away safely.

Jungkook was patiently sitting in the middle of the town when the other pack came in.

"Hey! What're you doing here?" The alpha pack was immediately on edge, and it made sense. When a large alpha wolf was in the middle of your town, it was obviously concerning. "Get your ass out of here before we force you out.

Jungkook stood up, stretched, then took a step forward to meet them. His anger was eminent, the alpha pack seeming to catch on. The pack leader yelled out. "Check the houses!" Jungkook cut him off by pouncing on him, the hidden hunters starting to come out from behind houses, trees, and other areas.

Jimin took the opportunity to run out, watching the others bleed out of the houses like rats, with omegas either on wolves backs, or running with them. They made it to the forest, getting past the dense trees. Jimin stopped at the edge of the forest, looking back to see the hunters finishing their business. Jungkook locked eyes with him, the two barking happily at each other.

They'd done it.

____

Jimin liked to keep his promises.

He stayed in the hospital for three months with Jin and the other nurses, catching up with his old friends, helping them eat, and watching over the ones who were struggling the most.

With the new winter pups having been born as well, the hospital was quite busy. Jimin was giving his services, and was happy to be back with his friends.

He'd done it. His life goal, he'd done it.

After a long day, Jimin went home, happy to see Jungkook there already. He was fast asleep in their bed, so Jimin gave him a kiss on the forehead before heading to take a shower. This was about their normal routine. Jungkook was being given more duties so he could ease into being the pack leader, while Jimin was busy at the hospital.

On their downtime, they were preparing for winter again. They were excited to mate.

____

When the time came, Jimin wore his finest robes, matching with Jungkook. Everyone knew about them already, it was too hard to miss, and they made it obvious with the bite marks and scents on each other.

Jimin walked with Jungkook hand in hand to the barn, happy.

He was just so happy.

It was just like the previous year, the pack leader getting everyone inside, everyone lining up, and asking for alphas and betas to ask for permission to mate.

Jungkook knelt before Jimin, setting down a shell, a rose quartz, and a large bear tooth. "Jimin...I've never loved someone as dearly as I love you. No living creature could take me away from you, nor could death. No sea is deep enough, no dessert big enough, no mountain high enough to keep me from loving you. Please, accept my offer. I'll be the best mate for you, and only for you." Jungkook smiled at him with pink on his cheeks.

"I accept Jungkook. I love you more than the night sky has stars, more than I can express in words and comparisons. The love I feel for you is only as equal to the love you feel for me." Jimin played with the pearl necklace Jungkook had given him the previous year. "It's the same love I've felt from the first day I met you."

Jungkook took Jimin's hand, kissing it softly. "I'll love you forever."

Jimin giggled. "I will too. I'll love you forever."

Jimin chose him.

And he knew he'd choose him over and over again, no matter what.

When they went home together that night, Jimin felt extremely happy, excited, and worried. They didn't sleep much, as they made love for most of the night, and it wasn't until the morning did Jimin realize Jungkook would be gone for their hunting season again.

"No, wait, why is it after the ceremony?" Jimin wanted Jungkook to stay in bed, whining.

"So we have a reason to come home. And I certainly do." Jungkook got a robe on, stretching out and wincing a little bit. "Mm."

"That's absolutely unfair. I'm just going to have to wait for you to come home? You better not get home in the early morning again. Come back with everyone else." Jimin pouted. "I'll be lonely sleeping alone."

Jungkook smiled and kissed him on the forehead. "You'll be okay love. It's only 3 days."

"Yeah, but I didn't handle it very well then, what makes you think I'm going to handle it well now?"

"You'll have to." Jungkook teased him. "Besides, it'll keep you needy."

"Brat."

"I love you Jimin. I'll be back safely this time."

"You better."

____

Jungkook did get back safely this time. He was more in control of himself than he ever had been before, more aware, more on point, more alert. That made the hunt go extremely well.

He took his net to the butchers shop, then headed home, shifting once he got inside, and getting a robe on.

He checked to see if Jimin was still awake, seeing that he was sitting in bed, reading.

"I'm home Jimin." Jungkook spoke quietly, not wanting to scare him.

"Jungkook!" Jimin put his book down and got up quickly, running over to Jungkook and jumping into his arms. "Oh Jungkook, I missed you." He nuzzled into Jungkook neck.

Jungkook laughed a little, but hugged him back just as tightly. "It was only three days."

"It was a long three days." Jimin pouted, then kissed Jungkook's neck.

"Ah, let me take a bath first."

"May I join you?" Jimin spoke quietly, but he didn't seem to let go of Jungkook.

"I- sure." Jungkook thought it only a little odd that Jimin was being extra clingy, but he liked it, and he had been away for a little bit. "Did you wait for me to get home?" Jungkook walked them to the bathroom, starting some bath water. "We're you lonely Jimin? I came home as soon as I could for you."

Jimin nodded, looking up at Jungkook and undoing his robes. "I was."

"A-ah, I see." Jungkook blushed as Jimin's small hands touched his now exposed skin. "You missed me."

Jimin nodded again, letting go of Jungkook and stopping the water. "It's cruel that you have to leave after being newly mated. You must know that." Jimin pouted and undressed, getting into the bath. Jungkook followed behind him. "If you weren't a hunter you would've been here."

"Jimin, it's my job." Jungkook smiled a little, seeing Jimin's jealousy. "I'll be home now."

"You'll be working though, won't you..." Jimin pouted more, leaning away from Jungkook. "How unfair." He huffed, looking away from Jungkook as he crossed his arms.

Jungkook moved closer to him. "Jimin, I'll be busy for only a tiny bit more. Just a couple more days."

He watched Jimin huff again.

"Jimin~ I'll be yours in just a couple more days. That's all. I've gotta do checks of the hunt and that's it. I can even do it from home."

Jimin peaked at him at those words. "You can?"

Jungkook nodded. "I can." He moved closer again, putting a hand on Jimin's thigh. "So don't feel bad about it. I'll be right here."

Jimin turned to him, seeming happier. "Can't you just take the days off? You've worked so hard."

"It's just a little more."

Jimin pouted again. "But-"

"No buts. I've just got a little more, and then I'll be free for you." Jungkook moved even closer, running his hand up Jimin's thigh to his back. "I'm here now, aren't I? Why are you thinking about tomorrow when I've just come back?" Jungkook smiled as Jimin blushed.

"I-I want you all to myself, that's why. I haven't had enough of you yet." Jimin leaned into his touch, grabbing Jungkook's neck and pulling him closer. "And I want you pretty badly."

Jungkook smiled. "Yeah?"

"Yeah." Jimin seemed to be incapable of not blushing, his cheeks a pleasant pink. "More than badly even."

"Do you wanna take a bath?"

"Mmmm." Jimin scrunched his nose. "Naw." He brought Jungkook finally close enough to kiss him, Jungkook slowly guiding Jimin on top of him.

Jungkook held his waist, letting Jimin move against him if he wanted to. He kept the kiss going, feeling Jimin shudder. "You okay?"

Jimin nodded, the pink on his cheeks turning red. "P-please...take care of me." He looked at Jungkook with big, pouting eyes.

Jungkook immediately nodded, kissing Jimin again to comfort him. He seemed needier than usual, but hey, he'd been out of the house right after they'd mated. Jimin moved against him, not desperately, but in need. Jungkook wanted to provide for him, no matter what that was, and it definitely seemed that Jimin needed his contact.

"Ah, Jimin." Jungkook gripped his waist a little tighter once he could tell Jimin was losing himself. "Restless?" He frowned, wanting to know what was bugging Jimin.

"I don't know." Jimin gripped Jungkook's shoulders. "I don't know what's wrong."

"Mmmm." Jungkook kissed Jimin's nose. "Then would you like me to make you comfortable?"

Jimin nodded, shutting his eyes tight. "Please."

Jungkook smiled at Jimin's shamelessness. "Mmm...I can't do too much, since I just came back, but I'll do my best."

"Anything is enough, I just need you Jungkook." Jimin gripped Jungkook's shoulders tighter. "Please."

"Okay, okay." Jungkook nodded and kissed Jimin to ease him once again. He let his hands roam for a little before taking Jimin's base and starting to pump him. "Lean on me if you need to love, I'm right here."

Jimin whined in response, leaning his head on his hand, which was on Jungkook's shoulder. "Please Jungkook..."

"Mm?" Jungkook continued, feeling Jimin pant.

"More."

"I can't give move, I'm sorry angel. I'm too tired."

"Then let me?"

"No, I need to rest tonight. I'm very tired. But tomorrow-"

"Now?" Jimin whined.

"Tomorrow." Jungkook continued, trying to give Jimin relief. "I can do it tomorrow."

"N...no, that's too long...how about now?" Jimin whined. "P-please?" He started to move into Jungkook's hand.

"Mmm, no, I can't love." Jungkook kissed his head. "I've been out for three days now, my energy is low." He kissed at Jimin's neck, moving his hand a little faster. He felt Jimin buck his hips up into his hand, whining more.

"B-but- but Jungkook-" Jimin whined loudly. "P-please!"

"Tomorrow." Jungkook bit down on Jimin's neck, marking him once again. Jimin moaned at that, giving in by nodding.

"I- okay, just- just- finish here-" he kept moving with Jungkook's hand, trying to find his release.

He found it rather quickly, Jungkook kissing his neck and leaving love bites along his collar bone.

"Better, love?"

Jimin nodded. "Missed you." He rested his body on Jungkook's, whimpering softly. "Sorry, I don't- I don't know why I'm being like this, I'll-"

"Hey no, it's okay." Jungkook kissed his neck again. "I don't mind it at all, if anything, it's really cute. I just wish I had the energy to do more for you." Jungkook smiled tiredly, his body starting to hit exhaustion. "But tomorrow, after I finish up our logs, I can."

"Mmmm...that's a long wait." Jimin spoke quietly.

Jungkook laughed. "It's just one day. I think you'll make it."

"I dunno, I might not make it." Jimin slowly got off of Jungkook and getting out of the bath. Jungkook started to clean himself.

"Then do what makes you comfortable. If that means jumping me during work, then that's that." Jungkook laughed again, seeing Jimin become embarrassed and hugging his towel closer.

"I don't want to bother you."

"You are in no way a bother." Jungkook cleaned his hair quickly, then got out and dried off. He saw Jimin blush more as he stared at him. "Like I said. You're cute." Jimin didn't seem to be able to look away from Jungkook. "Let's sleep Jimin." Jungkook nodded his head to the bedroom.

"O-okay." Jimin led them, taking Jungkook's hand on the way. They both got dressed in Jungkook's clothes.

"Are you okay?" Jungkook raised an eyebrow as Jimin cuddled up over him. Jungkook rubbed his back as Jimin nuzzled into his neck, hand rubbing Jungkook's chest.

"I'm feeling better now that you're here."

"Mmm. Alright Jimin. I love you." Jungkook kissed his head.

"I love you too Jungkook."

Jungkook slept well, happy to finally be back home with his new mate, happy to have his love and comfort.

____

Jungkook was happy that he could do his work at home. He took a quick trip to his dads house, getting the folder he needed, then went to his office in his own house, the one he shared with Jimin.

Jimin peaked into the room every so often, always asking. "Done yet?"

Jungkook smiled, shaking his head. "Not yet angel."

"When will you be?"

"Mmm...maybe another hour or two?" Jungkook looked over to him after finishing a page. "We've got a lot more people this year so there's a lot more to distribute."

"Mmm..." Jimin sighed. "Will you join me for lunch then?"

Jungkook looked at his work, then back at Jimin. "If I skip lunch I'll be done sooner?"

"Don't skip a meal. At least eat with me."

"If I eat with you I'll have to stay here a bit longer." Jungkook pouted, then sighed. "Ah, no, I should eat. I just want to be done."

"Okay cause I made lunch already." Jimin smiled happily as he left the room.

Jungkook smiled at Jimin's happiness, then got up, setting his pen down. He followed Jimin to their table, seeing a meal set out. "Wow! This is lovely Jimin." Jungkook sat down across from him, their knees touching.

"Thank you." Jimin smiled happily. "I wanted to spend it with you."

Jungkook smiled back. "I'm sorry I'm so busy. I promise I'll try and finish this up so we can spend time together. We both need it." Jungkook and Jimin started to eat.

"It's okay...I just...mm, I think I'm just being needy." Jimin hummed with a frown. "I don't know what's wrong with me lately."

"I think it makes sense." Jungkook shrugged. "We're newly mated, so it's not weird to be clingy and needy. And besides Jimin, I love you. I'll take care of you, so don't feel bad."

"I fear I'm becoming strange."

"Then become strange. I think you're lovely and cute." Jungkook huffed, pouting at Jimin's insecurities. "I like when you're shameless. Like when you showed me you were healing. And when you wanted to kiss me at first. I like when you're shameless and forward." Jungkook bumped their knees together. "I don't want you to feel bad about it."

"But I do." Jimin pouted. "I do feel bad for distracting you."

"But...I love you?" Jungkook laughed. "So whatever you do, I will also love. Even if I'm working and you come in, I don't find that annoying. I love seeing you." Jungkook smiled at Jimin. "There's nothing that you could do to make me upset."

"But I might annoy you, or bother you." Jimin looked away. "I'm sorry, I just feel so odd right now."

"No no, that's okay." Jungkook tried to justify his feelings. "I get it. I've been away, and now I'm back, of course you've been wanting me to be closer. There's no need to be upset over that. And no way should you feel bad about it."

Jimin looked at him with a small smile. "You mean it?"

"Of course. I love spending time with you, and, I find you too cute to ignore. You're mine now, after all."

"And you're mine too..." Jimin looked down with a larger smile, obviously sheepish.

Jungkook cooed. "You're too cute for your own good."

"Then you should do something about it."

"Ah, I can't yet." Jungkook sighed. "I've gotta finish up some work, and then I'll give you all of my attention. This lunch was absolutely lovely Jimin."

He pouted at that. "You're leaving already?"

Jungkook nodded. He could finish up fairly quickly, easily before dinner if he kept up the pace he was at before. "I promise I'll give you my time when I'm done, but this is for the pack. You're my priority, but, so is everyone else. We're part of the pack too." Jungkook stood, went around to kiss Jimin on the forehead, then headed back to his office to try and finish up the work.

Maybe a couple more hours. Two? Three? Before dinner for sure. The time seemed to go by quickly as Jungkook concentrated. He wanted to be with Jimin already. He wanted to kiss him, hold him, sleep against him, god he just needed another good sleep. This constant work was quite tiring, he had no idea how his dad did it.

When he was nearly finished, he heard Jimin knock on the doorway. "Almost done?"

"Yeah, maybe another half an hour? Not too much more!" Jungkook gave him a quick glance, then had to look again, this time staring. "You okay?" He was wearing one of Jungkook's shirts now, the shirt way too big for him, but it didn't seem like he was wearing anything else.

"Can I bother you?"

Jungkook blushed a little at how cute he looked, and how stupidly turned on he felt from it. "O-of course."

Jimin came over, tugging the shirt down multiple times before finding his way into Jungkook's lap. Jungkook's blush only darkened when he saw Jimin put down a bottle and a condom on the table. "W-what's on your mind baby?" Jungkook rubbed his back, his face burning as he saw Jimin's pout.

"Want you."

"I-I'm almost done. Can you wait just a little longer?"

"Want you though." Jimin started to undue Jungkook's robe.

"A-ah, w-well, I'm sure we can compromise something?" Jungkook looked over the work he still had, then jolted as Jimin's hand found its way to Jungkook's already hardening cock, holding the top while he thumbed over the tip. "Ah, Jimin." His other hand slipped Jungkook's robes off his shoulder to expose his neck. Jimin buried his face into it, kissing.

"Been waiting all day Jungkook. You've taking so long."

"A-and I've only got a little bit more left." Jungkook could help himself, getting hard rather quickly. His mind seemed to wander.

"I'm done waiting." Jimin left a bite mark before reaching behind him and grabbing the condom.

"T-then can we m-make a compromise?"

"Mmmm." Jimin put it on Jungkook, then grabbed the bottle.

"Y-you can rest on me, but don't move too much. I'm nearly done." Jungkook was beyond embarrassed, but goddamn it was Jimin pretty. His soft whines made him lose a little of his patience.

"But Jungkook-"

"No buts. Once I get this done I can give you my full attention." Jungkook held Jimin's back to steady him, as he lubed Jungkook and slowly sunk down onto him. Jungkook nearly groaned, instead letting out the breath he was holding.

"Mmmmm..." Jimin whined. "I want to though..."

Jungkook tried to get used to the heat as he held Jimin with one hand and tried to write with the other. "Wait just a little longer."

"But..." he pouted, kissing at Jungkook's exposed neck, his hands roaming his chest. "I need you."

"Just a little longer." Jungkook rubbed Jimin's back, trying to quickly write things down. Maybe he could make the half an hour fifteen minutes instead.

"Mmmm." Jimin gave another soft bite on Jungkook's neck, his hands trying to get Jungkook's robes off further but Jungkook pulled it back on.

"H-hey, Jimin, listen to me. Mark me all you want, but don't move too much. Let me finish."

Jimin nodded at that, continuing to make bite marks and hickeys. His hands fought against Jungkook's one hand, still wanting to disrobe him.

"Jimin." Jungkook gave a fair warning. "Let me finish."

"Mmm." Jimin whimpered. "You've been at it all day though."

"And I'm almost done." Jungkook sighed and stopped trying to keep his robe on, instead just holding Jimin's back and focusing on his work.

Jimin took his robes off his shoulders, adjusting himself just enough to make Jungkook jolt.

"Jimin."

"I didn't do anything." Jimin bit Jungkook's neck again, making him exhale a shaky breath.

"J-Jimin."

"Yes?"

"Let me finish."

"But I don't wanna." Jimin pouted, running his hand up Jungkook's hair, grabbing it and pulling his head back to expose his neck more. He kept making marks.

"Jimin!" Jungkook bit back a groan, then quickly put his ink and pen away. He swiped the papers off his desk, holding Jimin's back, and stood, resting Jimin on the desk and slamming into him. He growled. "Is this what you wanted?"

Jimin moaned, nodding as his hands found Jungkook's biceps. "Please!"

"Why should I? You couldn't even let me finish my work." Jungkook shoved snug in, biting his neck to make him submit or calm down. "You've been very needy recently. Tell me what's going on in your head?"

"I don't know!" Jimin cried out, trying to get Jungkook closer. "I don't know, but I fucking need you, okay?!" He glared, but his eyes watered.

Jungkook hummed. "You couldn't even wait fifteen minutes?"

"I ca-can't. I can't wait. So pl-please. Please." Jimin begged, tugging his shirt down as it rode up.

Jungkook grinned, loving how shameless yet bashful he was. The combination was nice. "Right now?"

Jimin nodded again, holding onto Jungkook tighter. "Please."

"Ah, fine fine." Jungkook kissed his neck, then his lips as he started to move. He held Jimin's hips so he didn't move up the desk and hit his head on the wall, and kept kissing him. Jimin cried out here and there, but mostly kissed back, one hand keeping his shirt down, the other holding Jungkook's bicep.

Jungkook groaned. "Tell me if you're good angel."

"I'm g-good, but you can- ah- can go h-harder- ah." Jimin dug his nails into Jungkook's bicep. "Please."

"Of course Jimin." Jungkook moved a little more rough, loving the sight that was Jimin. It was something else to see him so needy but bashful, in his own clothes as well, that just put the cherry on top. Jimin looked so small in his clothes, yet so desirable. Something inside him was animalistic about seeing him so vulnerable. He tried to find Jimin's prostate, wanting to hear him be louder.

Simply louder.

Jimin's eagerness made him giddy, almost a little too giddy. He liked seeing Jimin so open, so needy, so devour-able. He started to raise Jimin's (really his own, but what was his was Jimin's) shirt up, wanting to see more of him.

"J-Jungkook!" Jimin tugged it down, glaring. "It's c-cold." His cheeks were a pleasant pink, Jungkook smiling.

"I'll warm you up, don't worry." Jungkook continued, getting another protest from Jimin.

"L-leave it on."

"You disrobed me." Jungkook raised an eyebrow, slamming into him, earning a broken moan. "I can't take your shirt off?"

"It-it's cold." Jimin obviously lied, looking away and covering his mouth with his hand.

"You came here without any pants love, I don't think the cold was the problem. Hell, you came here ready for me." Jungkook growled, nipping at his ear. "Why're you so intent on keeping your shirt on?"

"I-" Jimin blushed hard. "I don't know, I'm just- this is- I'm going crazy. I just want- want you."

"And you have me. So why can't I lift your shirt? You get to see all of me." Jungkook kissed him, then growled again, more possessively this time. "Besides, you're mine."

Jimin nodded, but couldn't look at him. "I-I am but- but I'm still embarrassed."

"How has your confidence plummeted? You came in here mighty confident. You even tested my patience. And now...you won't even look at me. What should I do...?" Jungkook nipped at his neck, making Jimin shiver and release slick. Jungkook chuckled. "Oh?"

Jimin shut his eyes, obviously embarrassed. He continued to cover his mouth. "C-can you please...continue..."

Jungkook hummed happily. "I can. Can I take your shirt off?"

"No." Jimin mumbled.

Jungkook sighed, but nodded. He didn't want to make Jimin uncomfortable. He continued to move, trying to find his release, and trying to give Jimin what he wanted.

It didn't take too long to get there. Both of them came after a couple more minutes, Jungkook panting as he shoved his knot inside. He kissed Jimin as he cried out again, Jungkook feeling Jimin shiver and grab onto him again.

"J-Jungkook."

"Yes?" Jungkook nuzzled into his neck.

"...'m sorry. About all that."

"No no, you're okay. Maybe um, I'll have to redo any papers you might've...you know." Jungkook laughed a little. "That's not a big deal."

"But you'll have to...do it..." Jimin huffed. "I don't want to bother you more, but I want to be with you."

"It's not a problem. You've just been...touchy is all." Jungkook kissed his neck.

"I've been annoying." Jimin seemed shameful.

Jungkook laughed at that. "No way! You're not annoying at all. I promised you I'd take care of you, and I will. In any and every way, I will." Jungkook kissed him again.

Jimin gave a small giggle. "Shush, you hopeless romantic. I'm just feeling a little...overwhelmed maybe. I'm not sure what I'm feeling."

"Well, I'm here to help you figure it out." Jungkook's knot finally released and so he pulled out, pulling his robe around him again. "Let's- mm, I'll clean up here later." He picked up Jimin, carrying him to the bedroom as he went to get a wet washcloth.

He came back to clean them up.

"Are you feeling any better now?" Jungkook got Jimin a change of clothes, then having to give him a different shirt when he requested one of Jungkook's.

"I'm feeling a little better. I just want to be with you, you know? I dunno, closer is all." Jimin pouted as he laid in the bed, running a hand through his hair.

"Then...I can do work in bed. So that I'll be completely free after tomorrow's morning meeting."

"Ugh, you've got so many things to do." Jimin whined.

"It's my last thing if you let me finish this tonight." Jungkook smiled cheekily before heading to his office.

He picked up the papers he dropped, getting news ones, a clipboard, and his ink and pen, before coming back to the bed. He sat, Jimin cuddling up against him. "Is this better?"

Jimin nodded. "Closer is better."

The two stayed like that until Jungkook finished, and they ate dinner before going to bed.

____

And Jungkook should've known. He'd been absolutely stupid. How could he have not seen it?

After his meeting at his fathers house, giving him the papers showing what each person would be distributed, and having to talk about the upcoming farming season, he went back to Jimin, happy that the meeting didn't last too long.

But when he went to the bedroom, he saw Jimin on his side of the bed, surrounded by his clothes and pillows. He was still wearing his clothes too, and Jungkook finally got it.

"Your heat! You're starting your heat, I should've!- god damn I'm stupid." Jungkook laughed and saw Jimin look up at him.

"You're home! C-come here Jungkook." Jimin sat up, wearing nothing but Jungkook's shirt, tugging it down again.

Jungkook wanted to rip that shirt off of him so badly. "Have you eaten?"

"I need you."

"Drank anything?"

"I need you Jungkook." Jimin whined loudly, laying back down and curling into himself. He palmed himself as he whimpered.

That set Jungkook off.

"Okay okay I'm here." He undid his robe, knowing that Jimin would want the contact anyways. When he got on the bed, Jimin immediately pulled him down, straddling him. He grinded down, Jungkook feeling his slick poor out. "Ah, fuck, Jimin. You've been feeling this way for how long? All morning? I should've come home quicker angel." Jungkook kissed him, Jimin melting into it.

"P-please...take care of me." He whimpered, pushing Jungkook's robe off his shoulders, still grinding on his crotch. "Please, please, I need you in me Jungkook, I need you." He smiled when Jungkook groaned, feeling pleased. "D-do you feel good? You'll f-feel better when you're inside, p-please."

Jungkook nodded, a blush on his cheeks. "I feel good. You feel good." Jungkook moved his hands to Jimin's ass, immediately feeling him move against his hands. "Will you let me finger you?"

Jimin nodded quickly, raising his hips to help him. "Please."

Jungkook liked his shamelessness. He pushed some of the clothes off the bed in hopes to find their lube, but Jimin whined impatiently, so Jungkook carefully put one finger inside. It slid it so easily.

"Jimin." Jungkook blushed more as he moved his finger around. "You're already so prepped."

"J-just for you." Jimin smiled happily, his hands roaming Jungkook's exposed skin. "You should get undressed. Then you can get inside me." He kissed Jungkook's chest, biting marks in. "You should put more fingers in."

"Jimin, we should go slow so it doesn't hurt." What Jungkook actually needed was Jimin to go slow so that he wouldn't lose it. If Jimin let him do whatever he wanted...Jungkook shook his head. "Besides, what did you do with the lube?" He was still trying to find it in the mess that was the bed.

"Hm? Oh I didn't get it."

Jungkook blushed hard. "S-so you're telling me this is all slick?" Jungkook stopped moving his finger, embarrassed. "Jimin..."

"What?" He pouted, pressing against Jungkook's hand. "You're already hard, just put it in."

"I gotta prep you first."

"I'm prepped already. Been fucking doing it since you left." He tried to glare, but he pouted instead. "Please, it hurts."

Jungkook nodded. "I will. But...I have to prep you first. Your fingers aren't as big as mine." Jungkook tried to keep calm. He had to keep it together.

Jimin pouted in disappointment. "Do you need to?"

"I do." Jungkook tried to reach their bedside table, but couldn't quite make it. "Let me get up?"

"Only if you take off your clothes."

Jungkook laughed. "Okay. Deal." He pulled his finger out, Jimin whining as he did, and slowly got up. Jimin took off the shirt he was wearing as Jungkook got their things and took off his clothes.

"I'm too hot Jungkook. I need you to ease it. Fuck, please." He went to touch himself, but Jungkook quickly grabbed his wrist.

"Ah, don't. Not with me right here." Jungkook tsk'd. "Mmm...I want you to come just from the pleasure of your ass." Jungkook started to give in. He wanted Jimin to feel good because of him.

"Then- then please!" Jimin pleaded with him. "Then do it!" He grabbed at Jungkook's arms, wanting him closer.

Anything to get him closer.

"Please Jungkook, I'm- it hurts." Jimin tried to explain, but his head was hazy, his body in pain while his mind was focused on Jungkook. He had the ability to ease it, and by god did Jimin need that. He glared at Jungkook. "Now."

"Just let me please you." Jungkook situated himself, loving how Jimin was completely exposed, just for him. He was red, nearly glaring at him, but so goddamn attractive. Anytime he was trying to be angry at him, Jungkook could see past it. He smiled. "If you'll let me?..."

Jimin glared more, then lost his composure for a moment. "Jungkook you're!-" he shuddered as Jungkook pressed a finger against his hole, circling his entrance slowly. "You're insufferable! G- get inside me you brat!" Jimin sat up on his elbows before gasping, Jungkook barely pressing a finger in.

"Mm? Am I bothering you?" Jungkook grinned, feeling Jimin release slick. "Mmmm, it seems your body likes what I'm doing."

"Get inside me." Jimin nearly grit his teeth, already panting as he laid on his back, moving against Jungkook's finger. "You are going to kill me." Jimin grabbed at Jungkook's biceps, but shouldn't quite get it.

Jungkook smiled at him. "Aww, what do you need love? I'm going to help you, but your constant whining isn't going to help your situation. So let me please you." Jungkook put his finger in all the way, feeling Jimin's slick and smiling more. He felt astatic.

"Why won't you just- fuck- you want to tease me but I need you to get inside me right now!" Jimin yelled at him, then cried out in pain. "Ah!"

Jungkook pulled out his hand, poured lube on his hand, and shoved two fingers inside. Jimin cried out again as he played with those two fingers. Jungkook looked over him, then lifted one of Jimin's legs over his shoulder. He shoved a third finger inside as Jimin released more slick. "Mmmm, you're very ready, aren't you?"

Jimin nodded, one hand covering his mouth, the other grabbing onto the bed sheets. "I- I am! I need you t-to ease it, please." He tried to glare again, but he shut his eyes tight and mewled instead, as Jungkook grazed his prostate with his fingers.

"You already seem close love, there's no need to hold back." Jungkook grinned, loving how Jimin was reacting to him. He'd never gone through heat himself, but he could guess it was like a rut, in some ways, yet it was hard to go through one alone. "I'll take care of you."

"You aren't you brat." Jimin barked at him, trying to hold back his facial expressions. "Y-you're not helping me at all."

"What? I'm just going slow." Jungkook laughed. "I'm sorry you're impatient, but I need to prep you, no matter how prepped you already think you are."

"I'm ready Jungkook, don't- ah- don't tell me I'm not." Jimin cried out as Jungkook curled his fingers just right, making him shudder again.

Jungkook watched the precum dribble from Jimin's cock. "Mmm. I think you can come from just this, no?"

"I want your knot Jungkook. I want it." Jimin spoke quietly, shuddering again as Jungkook found one of his sensitive spots. "Please."

Jungkook leaned down and kissed his chest, then left bite marks and love bites. He kept his hand moving. "I want you to come from my fingers."

"Jungkook I am losing my patience." Jimin grabbed the back of Jungkook's neck, growling his words. "I'm going to lose it Jungkook!" Jimin tightened his grip on the nape of Jungkook's neck.

Jungkook grinned in response, licking over one of Jimin's nipples, gaining a gasp, and feeling Jimin keen into his touch. He kept his fingers moving, and kept playing with Jimin's nipple, making him come. Jungkook grinned in success and sat up, before pulling his fingers out and licking up Jimin's slick. "Ah, I never get over your taste."

Jimin whimpered, already hard again. "J-Jungkook please! Please, you've prepped me, you've teased me, so please, knot me!"

Jungkook got a condom on, lubing himself, and readjusted Jimin's leg, lifting the other over his other shoulder, then pushed inside, feeling Jimin shudder once again. "Alright Jimin, I'm in now, tell me what you need." Jungkook shoved snug inside, kissing and marking his neck.

Jungkook wanted to mark every part of Jimin's body. He wanted him to be his and his only, and he wanted everyone to know that. Jungkook grinned wide as he remarked Jimin, hearing him gasp in pain, and pleasure.

"J-Jungkook!" Jimin whimpered, calming down a little, holding Jungkook closely. The bite made his head a little less foggy, as he submitted to Jungkook once again. His body gave Jungkook permission, and the two of them exhaled their breath. "I- okay, okay." Jimin took in Jungkook's scent, trying to ease himself. "Jungkook...please move."

"M'kay love." Jungkook started to move, feeling the need to ease Jimin. He'd gotten him to calm down a little, but now it was time to take care of him.

Jungkook loved taking care of Jimin. He kept moving, trying to ease his mate, feeling rewarded by Jimin's constant moaning and whimpering. Jungkook grinned as he heard him, wanting to mark every part of him in return. He loved seeing his marks covering Jimin's neck and chest, but he wanted more. He wanted Jimin's thighs.

"J-Jungkook, 'm close, p-please knot me, I want you to knot me, please."

Jungkook nodded, shoving deep inside him, moaning out as they came. His knot locked them together. "Ah, Jimin. You feel amazing." Jungkook grinned into his neck, kissing softly as Jimin's legs slowly moved to go around his waist, but Jungkook grabbed one of his thighs, kissing it softly. He watched Jimin while he did so.

"Mmm, let my leg go, I'm folded in half." He sounded a little tired now, but Jungkook felt fine.

"Oh no, I plan on marking you up. And your thighs are a lovely place to continue." Jungkook bit his thigh, watching Jimin's reactions.

"I'm marked enough." Jimin smiled, then gave a weak moan at Jungkook's hickeys.

"I want to mark more of you." Jungkook let Jimin rest his legs around his waist, then leaned down to kiss at his neck again.

"It's gunna be a long day. Don't worry about marking me now, you'll have plenty of time." Jimin giggled a little, as he held Jungkook close. He felt his back muscles, grazing his fingers across them.

"I want you to look in the mirror and see yourself marked as mine." Jungkook growled possessively into Jimin's neck, then kissed at his throat. "I want everyone to know you're mine."

"Oh they do. You never let me leave the house without a hickey on my neck." Jimin laughed. "I remember the first time you asked me to mark you. You were so cute." Jimin smiled, then pouted. "Now you're too confident."

"Too confident? Naw, I just know how you'll react to things. And I never get tired of it." Jungkook smiled, kissing Jimin's lips this time.

"Ahh, such a pain." Jimin pulled Jungkook closer, kissing him softly, but keeping their lips connected. He took Jungkook's bottom lip in between his, rhythmically keeping it going. He needed the contact now though, as he started to feel needy again.

Jungkook must've felt it too, as his body tried to rut into Jimin, but couldn't, as his knot was still connecting them.

"Ah, ah, don't- don't." Jimin jolted at the movement. "Too- too much."

"Sorry." Jungkook mumbled. "Wasn't thinking."

"I-it's fine, just- ah." Jimin shuddered again as Jungkook's knot released.

"Mm, that was quick." Jungkook slowly pulled out, grinning as he watched Jimin's blush creep onto his cheeks. "Feeling okay?"

"Mmmm...kinda wish...you were inside me. I couldn't feel it pour out." Jimin blushed more saying it, looking to the side.

"Well, we're not trying for pups so I gotta be careful." Jungkook cleaned himself, then Jimin, before laying down next to him. He looked over at Jimin. "Tell me what you need, okay?"

"Just need you close." Jimin cuddled next to Jungkook, not caring that the two were naked. He was shameless once again, yet Jungkook could feel the heat off his cheeks.

Jimin's fingers drew circles on Jungkook's chest. "Sorry for being so...withholding. I think seeing you beg isn't enough to make me act."

"Oh, so should I demand it?" Jimin kissed Jungkook's neck. "Maybe you'll do it then."

"Yeah. If you really need it."

"Well, I most certainly do." Jimin sucked a hickey into Jungkook's neck, then started to grind against his thigh. "Feelin...needy again."

"Oh perfect." Jungkook smiled and adjusted himself a little, so Jimin could still rut against his thigh, but Jungkook could finger him easier. He slipped in one finger easily, feeling Jimin's slick pour out as he kept grinding against Jungkook's thigh.

Jimin whimpered. "Jungkook...please..."

"Please what love?"

"I want your knot again, please, once isn't enough." Jimin kept moving against him, before getting on top of Jungkook, keeping up his movements.

Jungkook jolted at the feeling, pushing in another finger. "Ah, that's- okay." He blushed as Jimin rubbed against him, feeling embarrassed now that he'd calmed down from the first high. "J-Jimin-"

"Please Jungkook...please I need you." Jimin ran his hands up Jungkook's chest. "Please." Jimin whined, obviously trying to seduce Jungkook.

He blushed in response. "J-Jimin are you sure?"

"I'm positive." Jimin pouted, leaning down and kissed Jungkook, his hand reaching past him to get another condom. He heard Jungkook laugh.

"Already?"

"You're hard, no?" Jimin rut against him again, Jungkook jolting. "Then it's time."

Jungkook laughed, playing with Jimin's ass. "Mmmm, needy needy."

"I'm in heat you brat." Jimin blushed as he put the condom on Jungkook and lubed him up. "I need more of you."

"Well, I'm not going to stop you." Jungkook removed his fingers, then put his pointer fingers inside, prying his hole open. "Besides, you're fucking hot as hell when you're on top of me." He helped Jimin settle down on him, shoving snug inside. He hummed in satisfaction. "Ah, you always feel so nice."

"You say the most embarrassing things." Jimin covered his face with one hand, the other hand still on Jungkook's chest. He started to move. "I-I can't- you've gotta help me Jungkook, I can't- I need you to get in deeper." Jimin whimpered, Jungkook watching his cheeks become a darker red.

"Ahhh, music to my ears." Jungkook smiled and met him halfway, grinning wide as Jimin easily gave in. "You sound so lovely, you're so lovely."

Jimin moaned, both hands on Jungkook's chest. Jungkook held his waist. "Y-you're- I love when- when you say that shit, I- I want you to tell me I'm pretty."

"Oh fuck Jimin, you're so fucking pretty." Jungkook felt astatic. Jimin was perfect. "You're doing so well too, you're taking me so well."

Jimin blushed, but nodded. "Y-you feel go- good, and big so- so I want to." Jimin moaned louder as Jungkook hit a sensitive spot. "Ah!~ Jungkook, hit that again! Please, please, hit it again, please."

"Mmm, sure thing love."

"I-I want it."

"I'm trying." Jungkook did try to hit his prostate again, his eyes locked on Jimin's face. It was contorting nicely into pleasure, his hands tightening on Jungkook's chest. When he hit it, he heard Jimin moan much louder, and tighten around him. "Oh! That's nice. That's so fucking nice." He grinned wide, loving how tight Jimin felt around him as he adjusted. "Fuck."

Jimin whimpered before moving again, desperate to find release. "God damn it knot me Jungkook, please!"

"Give me a little more, hold on." The two met halfway to find their releases, Jimin coming first, then Jungkook, shoving in deep so his knot would lock them together again. "Ah, fuck."

Jimin whimpered, whining as he rested his hands on Jungkook's chest, panting as he tried to get off his high. "You're a lot."

"Oh me?" Jungkook squeezed Jimin's ass, tightening him around his cock, earning a gasp from Jimin. "I could be much more."

"Jungkook! D-don't!" Jimin slowly melted, onto Jungkook's chest, his cheeks burning. "That's- it's too much, I-"

Jungkook did it again, laughing a little as Jimin shut his eyes tight, and started to get hard again. "Oh? My love, your body is so ready for me, even when I'm already inside. Why's that, mm?"

"You're such a fucking brat." Jimin mewled as Jungkook did it again, squeezing his ass tight around his cock and knot.

"Do you not like it?"

"I-" Jimin fully rested on top of Jungkook, panting. "I'm feeling a lot so- so-"

"Do you like it or not?" Jungkook rubbed his ass now, asking for permission to continue.

"I...I do. It's just so pathetic-"

"Ah ah ah, none of that. It's not pathetic, it's not stupid. I love it when you're shameless, you know this." Jungkook squeezed his ass again, feeling him tighten around his cock. "Ah, you feel so lovely Jimin."

Jimin moaned loudly into Jungkook's chest, hands roaming around. "Jungkook!" He released more slick, more than before.

"Ahh, you sound perfect." Jungkook hummed happily. "You feel so good, so tight love." Jungkook sighed with a smile. "You feel good too, no?"

Jimin nodded, pretty far gone at this point. "K-k-keep doing it, feels good Jungkook, your- your alpha cock feels so good Jungkook, fuck, I love it, I love it so much." He babbled, making Jungkook grin.

He continued, feeling Jimin release precum onto his stomach. "Close already? How many times is this going to make, three already? How dirty Jimin, I didn't think your body was so erotic." Jungkook teased him with a playful smile, but Jimin just mewled in response.

"M-more."

"So hungry for more, ah, I'm thriving." Jungkook did continue, feeling Jimin shudder. "Close?"

He whimpered in response, as Jungkook continued. Jimin came rather quickly, making Jungkook smile in content. He rubbed his back, one hand still on his ass. "Sleep for a bit Jimin, you'll probably feel horny for a while longer."

"Mmmmm..."

"I can't do much more with my knot still keeping us together. Might as well sleep a little." Jungkook rubbed circles on his back, the other hand blatantly on his ass.

"Yeah...yeah...you're right. You'll take care of me when I wake up, right?"

"Of course Jimin. Rest." Jungkook continued to rub Jimin's back.

"Okay, okay. Sorry if I wake up needy..."

"Don't apologize, I love you. I like taking care of you."

Jimin hummed as he dozed off, obviously out of energy.

Jungkook pulled a blanket on top of them, not caring about the mess as it would only get worse. For now, they could nap before Jungkook's knot released and Jimin got horny again.

____

Jungkook woke up first as his knot released, checking their clock and seeing they'd been together for at least four hours. They were well into the afternoon now. He felt Jimin squirm, so he slowly moved him off so he could pull out. In doing so, Jimin whined.

"Don't leave." He mumbled.

"Let me clean you up." Jungkook got up and threw the condom away, he got a washcloth wet and came back to clean up Jimin.

"Mmm." Jimin pouted, but didn't complain.

"Should we try for a meal?"

"I wanna be touching you Jungkook. I'm...I need your touch."

Jungkook smiled a little. "For someone who drooled on me, you've woken up quite collected."

"You felt good, shut up." Jimin kept mumbling, obviously embarrassed.

"Will you eat something if you sit on my lap?" Jungkook suggested as he finished cleaning Jimin, then cleaned his own chest. He looked over Jimin's body, wishing to mark it further.

"Maybe." Jimin sat up, pulling the blanket over his lower half, making Jungkook laugh.

"Why are you embarrassed! I just fucked you twice, you've- I've seen you naked plenty of times."

"I- I may be shameless, but I still have some decency to cover myself." Jimin looked away from Jungkook.

"But love, I want you to look at me, and I want to strip away every shred of shame you have away." Jungkook rolled his eyes and threw on a quick robe. "Let me get some fuel."

Jimin watched him go, immediately feeling needy. He wanted Jungkook right beside him, never leaving his side, keeping him at ease and at bay. Jimin wanted Jungkook inside him again too. He wanted his knot, his load, his everything so badly, it hurt. It hurt a lot, this tight knot in his lower abdomen, it hurt badly.

He cried out softly, holding the spot that hurt, then whined. "Jungkookie, come back already."

Jungkook hurried back, a bowl in his hands. "I cut some fruit, so- ah." Jungkook hurried onto the bed, setting the bowl down. "Already? But you haven't eaten yet." He pouted at that. "Okay, let's- I've got an idea." Jungkook sat against the wall, pulling Jimin on top of him. "If you rest on me, then you're gunna have to eat here and there, okay?"

"Mmmmm...but I just want you..."

"But you didn't eat breakfast and I can't fuck you for hours without you eating somewhere in between."

"Why not?" Jimin pouted, just wanting Jungkook inside of him already.

"Because, you might pass out." Jungkook tsk'd. "And we can't have that now, can we?"

"Then I'll just have you." Jimin slinked down, getting on his knees. "That's enough for me."

"Jimin..." Jungkook gave a small warning.

Jimin shrugged and moved Jungkook's robe out of the way, taking Jungkook's base and slowly starting to pump him. The other hand sneakily moved to his own cock, hoping Jungkook wouldn't see or notice. He licked the tip, then took him whole, making Jungkook jolt at the sudden change.

"Ah, Jimin." Jungkook blushed, feeling a little embarrassed at how easily he could get hard. But then again, Jimin was pretty as fuck, so he wasn't complaining.

He wasn't complaining until he heard Jimin moan quietly. Jungkook sat up on his elbows and tsk'd. "Jimin."

Jimin stopped, freezing in place.

Jungkook threw his head back and laughed. "You're such a snake!" Jimin popped off his dick, looking at Jungkook with red cheeks.

"I-I couldn't wait..." he looked almost apologetic, but not quite. Jungkook sat up, then moved forward, making Jimin lay on his back. "I- I mean it Jungkookie, I couldn't w-"

"You could've." Jungkook leaned down and kissed Jimin's chest, taking his wrists and placing them above his head. "You could've waited. Now look at you, you're already about to come and I haven't even touched you." Jungkook bit a mark into his skin.

"Th-then get inside, you're hard enough."

Jungkook laughed. "Why should I, hm?"

Jimin made a large ch sound, looking annoying. "Cause I'm in pain, and you're not helping me at all!" Jimin tried to get his hands out of Jungkook's grip, but couldn't. "Lemme go."

"No."

"Lemme go!"

"No." Jungkook growled, feeling Jimin lift his body to touch Jungkook's. The both of them groaned. "You are such a little brat." Jungkook grinned, letting go of Jimin's wrists to get another condom on. "And you call me one." He lubed himself up quickly before pushing in, grabbing Jimin's wrists again and putting them above his head.

"L-let me g-go Jungkook I- I want to touch you."

"No, you don't get to. Not after touching yourself." Jungkook marked him again, shoving inside rather roughly. Jimin moaned, lurching into Jungkook's body. He wanted the contact badly.

"Jungkook! Please, please, more, I need more. Give me more!"

"Will you eat if I do that?" Jungkook's eyebrows were furrowed, glaring at Jimin.

"Y-yes, anything, but please, it hurts." Jimin wriggled, trying to get his hands free. "I wanna touch you!"

Jungkook laughed, starting to move in and out. "You don't get to. Not yet at least, since you've been touching yourself." Jungkook tsk'd again, kissing at Jimin's jaw line. "Can't fucking believe you."

Jimin simply whined, moaning loudly whenever Jungkook would hit a sensitive spot. He came rather quickly, but didn't find any relief. "Ah! Jungkook please, more, more, I need-"

Jungkook kissed him eagerly, moving in and out quick and rough, Jimin's body arching into him. He felt close, but not there yet. He kept moving, loving Jimin's moans and sounds, his body against his own making him feel like he was in heaven.

Jimin whimpered under him, moaning here and there as Jungkook would hit his prostate. It wasn't until Jungkook locked them together with his knot, did Jimin calm down. He came again as Jungkook's knot kept them together.

Jungkook let go of his wrists, Jimin immediately grabbing onto him. He pulled them flush together. "Ah. Fuck, you always feel so good." Jimin whimpered.

Jungkook kissed his shoulder, then slowly moved them so Jimin was sitting on his lap. He fed him the cut fruit, giving him kisses in between to keep him motivated.

When he'd eaten, Jungkook was satisfied. "Good?"

"Good." Jimin rested on him, obviously tired. "...'m sorry..."

"Don't apologize love." Jungkook rubbed his back, drawing circles. "I love you. If anything, I'm sorry for teasing you. I know you can't handle much, I shouldn't have pushed you too far."

Jimin's hands ran their way through Jungkook's hair. "You're kind...don't worry." He started to drift off. "I like it anyways...I like when you tease me...when you call me pretty...I like your praise and admiration..."

"I love calling you pretty." Jungkook giggled. "You're always pretty."

Jimin smiled. "Thank you."

"Of course. I'm just glad... you're my mate. I'm glad you love me."

"I love you so much Jungkook. Thank you for being willing to go through my heat with me." Jimin kissed him softly. "I love you."

Jungkook grinned happily. "I think I love you more."

"Oh no you don't, not this again. We love each other equally." Jimin kissed him again, this time keeping them together.

The next three days went like this, Jungkook and Jimin taking many naps in between times of need and food, along with a couple baths that, ultimately, turned into times of need.

Jungkook honestly couldn't ask for more.

He was content. He found someone to be with, someone who had killed the beast inside him, someone who had ultimately given him the opportunity to right his wrongs.

Jungkook was happy. And that's all he ever wanted.

____

"Oh fuck man, when Yoongi last went into heat you should've seen the damage I came out with." Hoseok rolled his eyes. "He's a huge baby about the whole thing, I came out with scratch marks on my back and love bites on my neck."

"You think that's bad? Jin didn't let me sleep for the first two days." Namjoon drank with the two of them.

"At least I got Jimin to eat on the first day." Jungkook sighed. "He didn't have the patience to eat much else after that."

The three were drinking at Hoseok and Yoongi's house, casually hanging out as Jin, Yoongi, and Taehyung were all babying Jimin after his first heat across the room.

"Yeah, at least he ate. Sometimes Yoongi won't even let me get off the bed."

Namjoon laughed. "Jin still has a huge appetite when in heat, so we get fed well at least."

"I swear I was starving." Jungkook shook his head with wide eyes. "I had no idea what it would be like."

"Oh it's nothing like a rut." Hoseok laughed. "Yoongi told me if I ever suggested it was like one again he'd have to explain to me what it's like."

"Well, at least I'm not alone in my thoughts."

"You'd do it all over again though, right?"

"Oh fuck yeah." Jungkook drank, then smiled as he looked over at Jimin. "I never was able to say no to him."

Holy cow that took forever. Anyways, thank you all so much for 200K reads, I honestly appreciate it so much, and I cannot thank you enough.

It seems odd to me that my writing got anywhere, but it does make me proud in a way lmao. I'm still writing more things, so don't worry, there's more to come!

Drink water, stay inside, and eat well!

Munch 💜