"You promised.."

"I know, I'm so sorry" taking a step forward and pulling the other close "you don't know how hard this decision was for me.. I'm hurting too" he whimpered but Jungkook pushed away

"No. You don't get to make me feel sorry for you, you're the one doing this to us." He spat

"Jungkook PLEASE try to understand, I-I.." Taehyung cried out as his resolve fell and he collapsed to his knees

"Understand what? That this life isn't good enough for you? This house isn't good enough for you? IM not good enough for you?!" He cried out and started to walk away

"You know what Tae, fine. If you need your validation by running off to some western country and shoving your work down a bunch of stuck up suits throats then fine" his once firm tone is much more broken as he gathers himself before speaking again "But I'm not going to be sitting here waiting for you to find out that it's not what it's cracked up to be. So go ahead, go. You aren't bound by our stupid promise anymore."

He took one last glance at the boy he's grown to love so much before walking away.

•••

Taehyung didn't understand, he couldn't possibly understand. He and Jungkook have been best friends since Taehyung moved to Busan during high school.

They moved in together after senior year so they didn't have to pay for dorms at UNI.

Jungkook has always known Taehyung wanted to be an artist, Taehyung is CERTAIN he's mentioned on several occasions that after he had his degree he would move to Europe to study art further.

What he can't remember, for the life of him, is the promise.

What promise did they make that Jungkook is so upset about and why did he look as if Taehyung stomped on his heart when he said he was moving out?

Something about not being good enough? That's absurd! Jungkook is the best best friend in the entire world.

It doesn't matter how far Taehyung goes, the bond that they shared from the moment the met is tethered so tight its impossible to tear apart. Or so he thought.

But when he got home the house is empty. He can tell Jungkook went somewhere because his giant camo backpack is gone. His flight for Greece leaves at 10 a.m. tomorrow and he'd really like to see him before he goes but he also knows Jungkook. If he wants space, he needs it.

•••

"H-he's just going. He leaves tomorrow a-and that's it. There was no discussion, nothing." He cries into his moms arms who is gently rubbing his back. "Bun...does Taehyungie even know how you feel...about him? Have you ever told him?" She asks and Jungkook stills

"No" he whispers and she sighs but before she can respond he continues "but he doesn't have to know that I'm in love with him. It's not about that. We promised, when you guys and his parents bought us our house before Uni.." he sniffles

"We promised to always stay together no matter what. Wherever the wind blew us we promised to face it TOGETHER...and he, he didn't even talk to me. I would've followed him! I would've went with him anywhere!" He cries and now he's angry, so so angry

Mrs. Jeon can see the change in his emotions and her heart clenches at the sight "y'know What. I'm not doing this. I'm not gonna sit here and cry while he's probably pacing the house in excitement packing his bags and all of his art supplies" he scoffs and rolls his eyes "MOST of which I bought for him..I've always supported him" He grabs his bag "I'm going home and if he is so happy to leave for Europe without me than I'm gonna make him walk away from me. For good."

And without giving her a chance he slams the door and is gone.

•••

His mind is so hazy. He was so determined to come here and storm into the house and tell Taehyung everything that's on his mind.

How he's selfish and stubborn and completely oblivious to the most obvious of things.

And he felt amazing. Finally going to make peace with his feelings.

No amount of mental pep talks and preparation in the car could've prepared him for what he came home to.

He wasn't prepared to see Taehyung curled up into a ball on the couch wearing his hoodie.

And he certainly wasn't prepared to be met with puffy red eyes and dried streams of tears on his cheeks.

"Tae.." he breathes out and the other let out an enormously huge sigh of relief

"I-I thought you weren't gonna say bye.." he muttered into the crook of Jungkook's neck, hugging so tight

Jungkook is a weak man.

He knows this.

Always has been weak for the man in his arms. So he just hugged onto Taehyung even tighter. 

"I'd never" Is what Jungkook chose to say. 

"I'm going to miss you" instead of telling him not to come back.

And he felt his heart shatter whenever Taehyung looked up at him and his eyes flickered down to his lips and Jungkook knows he isn't crazy.

He knows that both he and Taehyung are having the same thought in their heads whenever they lean in simultaneously and for the first time in 7 years of friendship their lips meld together as if they were always meant to and Jungkook thinks he's going to pass out from intoxication.

He wishes he wouldn't have came back.

Because as Taehyung threads his long fingers through Jungkook's hair and their bodies press so close, tongues dancing together so slow, so soft, so beautifully.

He realizes that he was a fool for thinking he wanted this.

He knows it would've been far better to wonder "what if" for the rest of his life than to be where he will be tomorrow. Once Taehyung is gone and he's alone. Having gotten to experience this sensation only to have it ripped from him as if it never happened.

He knows now that he could handle losing Taehyung, the friend.

But knows he is certainly going to die, losing Taehyung the almost lover.

•••

48 hours.

2880 minutes.

172800 seconds.

That's how long it's been since he walked away.

That's how long it's been since he finally did something he's wanted to do for years and then ran.

That's how long it's been since Taehyung realized that he is a fucking coward.

Really, he wasn't planning on kissing Jungkook. Hell, Taehyung didn't think the other would even come back. All that he knows is in that moment, whenever he realized he would be moving across the world...he stopped using his brain.

And the kiss--God the kiss. Taehyung had been hopelessly in love with Jungkook for so many years, he couldn't resist and the moment their lips finally touched...it was far better than anything he could've ever dreamed of.

Kissing Jungkook wasn't magical.

It wasn't fireworks on a summer night.

It wasn't fire coursing through his veins.

It wasn't butterflies swarming in his tummy.

It wasn't electricity.

Kissing Jungkook was everything.

It was young love.

It was sunshine on a cloudy day.

It was finally accomplishing something you've been working towards.

It was coming home.

Kissing Jungkook felt like home.

He should've expected as much. What with how inseparable they've been since their friendship began.

The way he always looks for fluffy brown locks in a crowd of people.

Yeah, Taehyung should've known that Jungkook was home.

Jungkook is home.

Taehyung should've known he wouldn't last long without the familiar laughter whenever he does something silly.

Without the annoying presence dragging him out of bed earlier than necessary to work out.

Without someone making sure he didn't drink too much soda.

Taehyung should've known that he needed Jungkook.

But he didn't, or maybe he did, maybe he didn't want to acknowledge it.

But now he has, he did, he knows.

and he's all alone.

•••

7 days.

168 hours.

10080 minutes.

604800 seconds.

That's how long it's been since he suppressed his feelings once again.

That's how long it's been since he poured all of himself into kissing Taehyung.

That's how long it's been since Jungkook let Taehyung go.

Really, he had no idea Taehyung was going to kiss him. Hell, Jungkook was expecting to come home and yell. Fight. Tell Taehyung exactly how pissed off he was and make the older male feel like shit for making him feel this way. But all that Jungkook knows,

is that whenever Taehyung is involved it's like the world stops spinning. There's no other way to describe it, he's tried. As soon as he's in the other males presence, it is as if there is truly no concept of time. Nothing too big or too small. Everything is simple.

Everything is beautiful.

Everything is perfect.

Everything is exactly as he wants it to be.

and then they kissed. God--the kiss. Jungkook has replayed it on a loop in his mind since it happened. Remembering every detail.

The feathery soft feeling of Taehyung's lips against his own.

The tingling sensation of Taehyung's fingers through his hair.

The absolute bliss of holding Taehyung in his arms and having him hold back.

Kissing Taehyung wasn't magical.

It wasn't falling in love all over again.

It wasn't as if they were the only two people in the world.

It wasn't romantic.

Kissing Taehyung was painful.

It was finally having your feelings validated.

It was getting a taste of something you know you'll never have again.

It was experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime love that you know you have to give up.

Kissing Taehyung was saying goodbye.

He should've expected as much. What with how the day has gone so far. With him waking up to bags packed and Taehyung fiddling with his fingers.

The way he felt himself break into pieces whenever Taehyung finally said the words Jungkook has been terrified of since they met.

Yeah, Jungkook should've known that there would be a goodbye.

Taehyung was unparalleled.

In everything that he did.

From the way he introduced himself to Jungkook on the very first day, to the way he wedged himself into Jungkook's life (and heart).

Has embedded himself so deeply into Jungkook that he should've known he will never get past this.

He should've known that Taehyung is it for him.

He should've known that there will never be another person in the world to make him feel this way.

But now he does, he knows.

and he's all alone.

•••

Not even a month. Taehyung didn't even last a month. He has no idea what he's walking into.

No idea what is going to find him whenever he turns the key into the door that he's walked through countless times.

No idea what Jungkook has done but he's here.

The house is silent, he figures you could hear a pin drop, with how silent it is. Not even the humming of the air conditioner can be heard. He strolls his way down the hallway to what /was/ his bedroom and smiles whenever he sees it untouched. Let's himself think for a minute that maybe Jungkook has been waiting for him to come back. It's silly, he knows. Not spoke as much as a word to each other since their kiss. Taehyung endulges himself in the last few minutes before he faces the truth.

And Jungkook has had such a long day.

Having started a new job seeing as he got fired from his former one.

Apparently not showing up for two weeks due to a broken heart doesn't constitute as a valid reason for missing work.

Jungkook knows what he needs.

He knows what his body aches for. What his heart is craving. What he is DESPERATE for.

Jungkook doesn't know, though, that what he needs is there.

Only a few feet away from him. Whenever he drags his feet into the house and plops onto the couch. Face first into the pillow, determined to sleep until morning. He nearly goes into cardiac arrest whenever he feels a body drop onto his back. But the moment he feels two familar, slender arms snaking around his sides and hugging him tight, all of his emotions, pain, confusion of the last month pour out and he sobs. It's not even discreet, not choked back, he doesn't even try to hide it.

He just let's it out.

Thinks he's hallucinating, honestly.

Figures his mind has officially reached peak delusion and he is imagining Taehyung came home.

Imagining the extra set of shoes he ignored when he toed off his own.

Imagining the red beret that was sitting on the side table when he sat down his phone.

Imagining the lips that just kissed his neck.

"Kookie.."

and no, there's no fucking way he imagined that.

Jungkook surged from his position faster than he's ever moved in his life, causing Taehyung to plop right on the floor.

"Taehyung.. oh my-what? what are you doing here?" he breathed out and Taehyung stared up at him with glassy eyes and Jungkook collapsed to his level.

Cupping his cheeks with his palms and resting their foreheads together, trying so hard to steady his breathing.

Trying to not let his hopes rise.

Trying not to set himself up for heart break again.

With his eyes closed he's unable to see Taehyung leaning in but he feels it.

Heaven knows how he felt it. The tear flavored taste of Taehyung's lips against his own.

He melts into the kiss for a few moments before he's pulling away and staring at Taehyung who has hooded eyes.

"Tae.." he whispers

and Taehyung has so much he wants to say.

I love you.

I never should've left.

I need you.

I can't live without you.

but he knows that he won't get any of those things out properly so he just lunges forward again, kissing Jungkook with everything he has.

Pushing the other until Jungkook is rested against the couch and Taehyung is practically in his lap. Holding onto him so tight as if he will really disappear the moment he let's go.

Reveling in the feeling of Jungkook's thumbs tracing circles on his sides.

and Jungkook finally pulls away.

Forces Taehyung to acknowledge whatever it is that is happening.

"I'm so sorry, Jungkook" he says, and Jungkook has a sad smile on his face when he sees a tear trickle down Taehyung's cheek "I shouldn't have left.. I knew before I even got on the plane.. I should've stayed.." Taehyung adjusts his position, now fully sitting in Jungkook's lap. Legs wrapped around his waist and hands fiddling with the hairs on his neck. "I've thought about you every second since I left." he whispers and Jungkook brushes the damp fringe out of Taehyung's face, tucking the curled locks behind his ear.

"but you're back?" he asks, looking almost scared for Taehyung to answer

Taehyung smiles at him, "I'm back.. back as long as you want me to be.." it's open ended, almost a question, kind of a confession

Neither of them have spoken on what's happened.

How they immediately crossed the line from best friends to .. whatever this is.

Jungkook uses all of his strength to grab underneath Taehyung's thighs and lift them up. Walking towards Taehyung's room and as much as he wants to press him up against the wall and kiss the oxygen out of him.

He wants proof.

So he sets Taehyung down on the bed and steps back. Leaning against the doorway with a blank expression.

Taehyung looks confused. Hair tussled and lips swollen pink from kissing and Jungkook wishes he had a camera because he's certain Taehyung has never looked more beautiful.

"unpack" he deadpans and Taehyung's eyes widen

"What?"

Jungkook feels childish, really, he knows it's silly...but there's a part of him that has felt empty.

The house he's lived in for years hasn't felt like home since this closet was emptied.

So he waits.

Watches happily as Taehyung places each item back in his wardrobe.

A giggling mess as he glances back to see Jungkook's pleased expression everytime he sets aside another empty luggage.

Within milliseconds of the final bag being unpacked Taehyung feels two strong arms grip his waist, tossing him onto the bed and now Jungkook is hovering over him with the brightest smile.

"You're back" he states

"I'm back" Taehyung confirms

"Please don't leave me again" Jungkook mutters out, breath fanning over Taehyung's lips leaving the man underneath him intoxicated

"I'd never" is all that Taehyung gets out before their lips are combined again.

Moving together fluidly as if they were always meant to.

•••

Waking up the next morning Jungkook panics, because his bed is empty and as he looks around the room he doesn't see anything out of the ordinary.

His heart starts beating rapidly and he has to hold his head up right to keep from hyperventilating.

Jungkook takes a deep breath

Before getting up and walking down the hallway, panic filling his chest even more when he peeps into Taehyung's room and it's spotless. No empty luggage's on the floor, no crumpled sheets from their make out session he so vividly remembers.

Jungkook can't bring himself to look in the closet because if he opens it and confirms his suspicions that everything that happened last night was just a dream, he knows that he will die.

His heart can't handle the pain of having Taehyung in his arms only to lose him again.

He has one hand resting on the doorframe and the other holding his chest. Trying to fight back the tears that are prickling his eyes and muster the courage to check his phone.

But before he can even finish catching his breath, he feels two arms wrapping around him.

A very soft "Morning Kookie" is murmured against his nape and just then all of the air leaves his lungs as he whips around so fast to see Taehyung standing there with wide eyes.

"Oh my god, what's wr—" Jungkook doesn't even let him finish his sentence before

He has his hands in the curly brunette locks and is slotting their lips together so softly.

Making sure to pay attention to every motion, proving to himself that this is real and whenever one of Taehyung's hands cup his cheek gently he crumbles and has to back away because

The sob that breaks out is overwhelming and even Taehyung is in shock, having no idea why Jungkook is so upset.

"Jungkook... please, what's—did I do something?" He asks, voice wary and sweet. Running his long fingers through Jungkook's hair and holding him tight.

"T-Tae.. I-I was so scared..I though I dreamt it all...I thought you didn't come back.." he choked out and Taehyung can't help the tears that fall from his eyes as well because he's finally realizing just how much he hurt Jungkook by leaving.

Taehyung knew, by the others reaction last night, that he definitely missed him...but he wasn't sure if Jungkook missed him quite as much as he did.

However now with Jungkook sobbing furiously in his arms, the weight of his actions falls heavy on his shoulders.

He lifts Jungkook's face to meet his gaze, using his fingers to wipe away the tears. "Kookie, I'm so so sorry. I never should've.." unable to finish his sentence he pressed a chaste kiss to Jungkook's lips. "I love you, Jungkook and I swear.. I'll never be leaving this house without you by my side.. okay? I can't. It was only a month and I thought I was going to die without you..and I'll never forgive myself for leaving you even if I didn't realize at the time what that meant" sealing his promise with another kiss

Taehyung felt warm inside whenever in the midst of their kiss he could feel Jungkook's lips curl up into a smile.

Finally he noticed the steadying of Jungkook's heart rate and felt his favorite pair of arms adjust their hold even tighter.

"I should've told you. I've known all this time but I never thought.. I always thought it'd be us.. so I panicked when you said you were leaving. I'm sorry too. I should've told you how I felt before you left...saved us both the struggle" he gives a small smile "I've loved you for so long" Jungkook spoke out with a voice gentler than Taehyung had ever heard him before.

Then he had his hands back on Taehyung's waist and pulled him in, chest to chest. Nuzzling his face against the others with a bright grin on his face. "You're really, REALLY back" he spoke and before Taehyung could say anything else Jungkook had picked him up into his arms and had their mouths on each other again.

Firmly holding him against the wall as he slowly lapped his tongue against Tae's bottom lip.

Relishing in the surprised gasp that leaves his mouth, he slips it in even further and now he's certain that he is in heaven because the way their tongues move together so fluidly has his toes curling and the weight of Having Taehyung, literally, in his arms makes him feel like he's drowning in the best possible way.

Taehyung pulls away for a second and Jungkook chases his lips, pouting when Taehyung stops him. "You have an interview in thirty minutes" he says attempting to climb down

But Jungkook grips onto Taehyung's ass firmly, making him squeal before looking into his eyes. "Fuck the interview, there will be others. I'm not going anywhere today and neither are you" he voices out firm before leaning forward to Place open mouthed kisses all over Taehyung's neck and jawline, as he carries him to his room.

Taehyung giggles when he hears Jungkook lock the bedroom door, "planning to hide me away, Jungkookie?" He teases and Jungkook is so happy to see that devilish smirk again

"Forever and ever" he whispers, not even caring about the implications of his words because the idea of making out with Taehyung in this room for the rest of his life sounds far better than anything else he could think of.

To both of their surprise, it is Jungkook who falls asleep first. After a day of simultaneous cuddling, kissing and talking on repeat..they finally settled on the couch to watch a movie.

Not even twenty minutes into the film and Taehyung can hear the soft snores in his ear.

Taehyung himself isn't all together. Two months ago Jungkook was his best friend, even if he was harboring feelings...he had no idea they would /ever/ be returned. So all of this is overwhelming.

Yet, it feels so natural. It feels as if this is how they were always supposed to be.

As they're legs are intertwined and his head bobs with the rise and fall of Jungkook's chest Taehyung feels absolutely complete.

Even if he doesn't know what the next steps are, he is much more confident taking them with Jungkook by his side.

♡♡♡

It's a week after Taehyung came back and Jungkook has to pinch himself every single morning to remind himself that it's real, whenever he feels an arm draped over his abdomen and legs clinging to his own.

Overwhelming warmth swelling in his heart as he kisses Tae's forehead.

The action causes him to stir in his sleep and he cuddles even closer to Jungkook than he was, making the other laugh.

"Wake up, Tae" he murmured against the disheveled locks of hair tickling his chin

Taehyung pouted and pressed a butterfly kiss to Jungkook's chest

"Just a little longer, kay?" he whispers but Jungkook looks at the clock and it being 11 in the morning already, tells him they've been sleeping long enough. So he pryed Taehyung off of him and slipped out of bed.

After sliding on some sweatpants he leaned down scooping Taehyung into his arms, causing him to whine. "Jungkookie, please, I'm so sleepy" and it really took all of Jungkook's strength not to turn right back around and crawl into bed to snuggle Taehyung for the entire day.

But that's all they've done for a week

"Sorry baby, we've gotta be productive today" he says sweetly as he places Taehyung down on the counter. Turning to the fridge to pull out ingredients to make them brunch.

"Where was that energy when I  wanted to be productive"

Jungkook just laughed and shrugged his shoulders, carrying on as if he didn't hear the words.

Taehyung is trying really hard to stick to his sulking, but as he watches a shirtless Jungkook maneuver his way around the kitchen.. he suddenly forgot why he was sulking to begin with

♡♡♡

"What's on your mind, honey?" Mrs. Jeon asks as she watches her son staring out of the window of the resto.

"I dunno.. I just wonder if Tae is actually happy.. with me" his voice is small and his mom really wants to smack him for being so silly

"Can you not see it?"

"See what?" he asks, head still down. He hates that he gets so insecure but he can't help but remember that Taehyung gave him no warning what so ever before leaving the first time.

"The way he looks at you, bun. The way Taehyungie has always looked at you." she smiles

Taking her sons hand into her own and rubbing it gently. "There isn't a doubt in my mind that he loves you with all of his heart and I've never seen a bigger smile on his face than when he's with you."

Jungkook finally looks up with a shy smile but just as he's about to speak a weight plops down right next to him, huffing and out of breath. "M'so sorry! I missed...my...bus..." he holds up a finger to catch his breath with a giggle "so I ran here. Sorry for being late!" he said with a big smile before pressing a soft kiss to Jungkook's cheek.

"No worries, love. Jungkookie and I were just talking about you" she said with a wink and Jungkook's face is blushing furiously "I've missed you. How've you been, your parents don't tell me anything." she asks with a pout and Taehyung can't help but notice the resemblance to a certain man, who happens to be holding his hand.

"Yah! That's my fault, I don't talk to them as much as I should. I'm good, great actually" he blushes, clutching Jungkook's hand that is intertwined with his own under the table

"I just submitted my first portfolio for an artists exhibition. I'm really nervous, but I'm hopeful" he says and Jungkook brings his hand to his lips kissing it softly

"Please, with the work you submitted I'm sure you're going to have several people contacting you"

The two started bickering, light-heartedly and it ended with Jungkook shutting Taehyung up by pecking his lips. Making his face turn cherry red and Mrs. Jeon's laughter fills the resto quickly.

"And I thought you guys were clingy in high school"

They share an embarrassed look and Taehyung has his bottom lip caught in his teeth whenever she smiles at them fondly, "Please.. it makes me so happy.. don't stop"

♡♡♡

"Wait, wait, wait...so you're telling me, you and Jungkook are finally hooking up and I'm finding out about it a month later?!" Jimin shouts and Taehyung slaps his arm playfully

"First of all, we aren't hooking up all we've done is make out heavily.." he blushes "Second of all, I'm still not sure what exactly we are. I mean, we sleep in the same room now and we kiss and cuddle A LOT and we say I love you... but we haven't labeled anything...I-I think he still doesn't trust me" his voice is defeated and Jimin hates seeing Taehyung like this. However, Jungkook is his friend too and he remembers the frantic drunk phone call he got a week after Tae left, so he gives an apologetic smile and kisses the crown of Tae's head.. "you guys will figure it out, you always do"

♡♡♡

"Hyung, what do I.. how do I.." he takes a deep breath "how do I tell someone-that-I-kiss-a-lot-and-say-I-love-you-to-that-I-want-them-to-be-my-boyfriend-and-eventually-marry-me" Jungkook lets out fast and exasperated but Namjoon just quirks an eyebrow

"Tae?"

Jungkook's eyes widen as if Namjoon just told him the impossible.. "how do you know?"

The older of the two chuckled ruffling Jungkook's hair, "as if you'd ever want to marry someone else" and now Jungkook groans out of embarrassment

"I'm glad it's obvious to you because he had know idea and now we're in this awkward limbo space where we are basically boyfriends without the label and I'm terrified that he isn't all mine... y'know?" When a frown appears on Namjoon's face he back tracks "I don't mean like that!! I don't think he's with anyone else..I just mean like there's nothing tying him to me. He could walk away whenever he wants" he says, voice small and Namjoon sighs

"Jungkoo-ahh, a label doesn't change that fact.. what makes someone stay isn't the label you tie to the relationship but the feelings and love that are embedded in it." He smiles, squeezing Jungkook's shoulder assuringly "and there is nothing but overwhelming love between you two.. so just talk to him, okay?"

♡♡♡

For the first time since Taehyung came back, they both went out of the house today. Only a few goodmorning kisses were shared before they parted ways and Jungkook is certain he is having Tae-kisses withdrawals because his heart feels like it's gonna cave in as he

Stares at the clock waiting for Taehyung to get home. After talking with Namjoon he realizes that he and Taehyung can't move forward until he lets go of his reservations.

Taehyung is here.

Taehyung is his.

Taehyung is staying.

He repeats it in his head like a mantra.

So caught up in his thoughts he didn't hear the door open, but he definitely felt the two hands covering his eyes and he yelped a little before he heard Taehyung's giggles.

"I have a surprise for you" Tae whispers against the shell of his ear, making Jungkook get up to follow

He leads him to the kitchen where he set out the surprise and presses a soft kiss to Jungkook's nape before finally taking his hands off of his eyes.

And Jungkook blinks several times before he realizes what the letters of the chocolates spell out.

He turns to face Taehyung who is worrying his bottom lip between his teeth, cheeks flushed pink and the beginning of a smile threatening to break through.

"Tae.. w-why?" He asked, breathily with a chuckle "I was gonna ask you" he pouted and Taehyung shoved him lightly

"Really Jungkook?! I'm standing here nervous as can be waiting for your answer and you pout because you wanted to ask me first?!" His voice is loud but playful and Jungkook smiles so brightly before lunging forward and capturing Taehyung's lips with his own.

"As if I'd ever say no to that" he murmurs against the others lips as he lets his hands rub comfortingly along Taehyung's sides. Holding tight and kissing him deeply.

Taehyung pulls away with a giggle and rests their foreheads together.. "I'm still sorry" he whispers

"I want you to know that I'm really here to stay... I-I know it's only been a month and you're probably still kind of worried that I'm gonna leave again but I'm not.. I can't..I won't.. Jungkookie I—" as much as Jungkook loves listening to Taehyung talk

He can't listen to this rambling apology that he doesn't even need to say.

And it's just like Namjoon said. It's not the fact that he's Taehyung's boyfriend that is making the other man say these things. It's love.

Love, love, love, Taehyung loves Jungkook.

And Jungkook loves Taehyung just as much. So he interrupts the rambles with his lips and kisses him so softly, he feels himself melt into it as well. Slowly backing Taehyung up until he has him caged between his arms and the counter. Biting on the swollen bottom lip

He pulls it back with a light pop and smiles at Taehyung. Cupping his cheek with his hand. "I know, I know Tae. You don't need to apologize anymore, just stay with me.." he whispers "that's all I want"

Taehyung's smile lights up so bright as he throws his arms

Around Jungkook's neck. Bringing him closer than he already was and the other moves his hands from the counter to wrap around Taehyung as well. Breathing in every bit of this moment.

"I love you Jungkook"

"I love you more, Taehyung"

♡♡♡

If you asked Jungkook what his life would be like after 6 months of being Taehyung's boyfriend, he probably would've said something about nightly rituals of kissing and love making.

He definitely wouldn't have said that they still haven't gone further than

some rushed handjobs.

And he ABSOLUTELY wouldn't have told you that the reason they haven't gone further is his fault. Not when he's dreamt of having Taehyung more ways than one ever since they met.

So why does he always shut down? He's absolutely terrified.

As a horny teenager, it was easy to fantasize. Picture his gorgeous bestfriend in compromising positions.. bent over, in his lap.. on his face...yeah, all of those things are nice and fantastic in his imagination.

But in person? Whenever he is actually finding himself

hovering over Taehyung in bed. Grinding their bodies together and hands touching everywhere, he freezes. Because he knows, as much as anyone, how important intimacy is in a relationship.

He's terrified of not meeting Taehyung's expectations because who wants to marry someone that can't even fuck them right?

It's a ridiculous fear, he knows that but when you've been dreaming of someone for 5+ years and you finally have them in your grasp... there's nothing scarier than thinking you'll disappoint.

If only someone would tell him, that by being too scared, he is already disappointing Taehyung.

♡♡♡

Taehyung isn't unreasonable. No, he completely understands that sex and intimacy are huge. Whenever you're taking a relationship as fragile as the one he shares with Jungkook it makes it even bigger.

He likes to believe he's a patient man. Never pressing for more and never ever questioning Jungkook's actions.

But as he's sitting outside of their bathroom and he /knows/ he's hearing the sounds of a man getting off, he can't help but feel frustrated.

They were on the couch, it's been a busy week for both of them. With the movie on screen serving as background noise, Taehyung climbed into his boyfriends lap and immediately attacked his lips with his own.

He's been desperate for this all week. Body craving Jungkook's touch.

Yet the moment things were escalating and Taehyung's body felt like it was going to burst into flames from excitement. Jungkook stopped and said he needed to shower.

Which is his signal lately for, "this is as far as we're going, sorry".

and Taehyung wants to cry because he can't help but wonder what's wrong with himself? He knows Jungkook has had sexual partners before, he's even witnessed a couple by mistake back in college.

He knows he shouldn't but he finds himself analyzing everything about him.

He pinches his pudgy tummy.

Leans in closer at the mirror to pay attention to any blemishes on his skin.

Does a little jiggle with his legs and cringes when he see's the skin of his thighs shake.

Taehyung can't help but wonder if that's why.

After all Jungkook has always made it a point to drag Taehyung to the gym with him.

and Jungkook himself is the very definitely of fit. Chizled and cut to perfection. So maybe someone who /isn't/ is a turn-off.

The feeling sits in his stomach and he starts to feel sick.

He feels too embarrassed.. too disgusted with himself to face Jungkook whenever he gets out of the shower. So he changes into some pajamas, unlike his usual choice to stay shirtless, he pulls on a T shirt and some pants...climbing into bed without a word.

"Tae?" Jungkook calls out whenever he returns to the living room to find the t.v. off and couch empty.

He knows they said they were gonna watch two movies tonight, so he's confused whenever he walks to the bedroom and see's Taehyung already curled up.

"Baby??" he calls again

when he get's nothing in response he figures he took too long and sighs, but crawls into bed none-the-less.

Not hesitating to tug on Taehyung's arm to pull him towards himself. Smiling whenever his little koala takes his usual position clinging to his body.

but the smile alters, whenever he goes to slide his hand under Taehyung's t-shirt and he feels him flinch.

"Baby." nothing

"Honey bear." nothing

"Tae." nothing

"Kim Taehyung." nothing

Realizing that his boyfriend isn't budging, he just hugs him tighter.

Letting one hand lift his chin and pressing a soft kiss to his lips before whispering I love you and drifting to sleep.

♡♡♡

"Hyung, something is definitely wrong" Jungkook breathes out whenever he and Jin finally take a break from their run.

"W-what are you talking about Jungkook?"

"Tae. I-sorry this is random.. but I was just thinking and Tae's been so distant for two weeks now... and I noticed"

"today that he's thinner. Like not in a good way. I think he isn't eating... I cook our foods for us and I noticed today that the breakfast I made for him ended up in the trash."

he plops on the bench nearby while Seokjin starts to stretch his legs before they continue

"I dunno, Kook. Has he mentioned anything about wanting to diet? Maybe he's stressed about that commission he just took?" Jin shrugs, trying to think of why Taehyung would be not eating.

All of them know how much that man loves to eat, especially when it's Jungkook that made it

"No, but even aside from that.. he stopped initiating.. y'know anything" he groaned "I think I fucked up and I don't even know how"

Seokjin just laughed "welcome to boyfriend life" and then took off to continue their run

Jungkook chuckled following behind him

♡♡♡

"Taehyung-ah.. let's talk" Yoongi says, guiding Taehyung into a room where he finds Jimin and Hoseok sitting as well.

"W-what is this an intervention?" he jokes, playfully but the tight lipped expressions on their faces tell him that he might not be too far off

It's Hoseok who breaks the silence "What's going on? Why aren't you eating?"

"What are you talking about?! I do eat." he defends but Jimin bites his lip as he walks behind the couch and pulls out a bag of various foods he's bought for Taehyung throughout the last week.

All of which he found in the bin. "Tae.. talk to us." he pleads and Taehyung's eyes immediately fill up with tears.

"I-I.. it's so embarrassing.." he cries out and Jimin is quick to his side to pull him into a hug

"H-hey.. it's okay. Really, you don't need to be embarrassed"

"Yeah, Tae.. just talk to us. We love you and want to help you, with whatever it is that's going on" Yoongi chimes in

Taehyung takes one look at his hyungs and sighs, expressing all of his concerns. Every detail of the interactions he's had with Jungkook and why he feels

like he needs to lose weight. To which they all just stare with wide eyes.

"A-are you crazy?!" Hoseok shouts

"Hobi-"Jimin warns but Hoseok cuts him off immediately

"No! Seriously! Tae.. you've gotta talk to Jungkook about this!" he pulls his hair in frustration

"Y-you can't.. you're hurting yourself! This isn't healthy and I know if Jungkook knew your reasons behind this he'd be angry too! Tae.. you have to take care of yourself properly." he pleads and Taehyung's expression goes blank..

"Bold of you to assume Jungkook has even noticed... he hasn't said a word. I've even been more reserved, I don't come onto him anymore other than a few kisses here and there.. he hasn't noticed any of it." he folds his arms around himself and Jimin is holding him again.

"You've gotta talk to him, Tae. This isn't healthy and if that really is the reason for him to not want to be intimate with you then.." he sighs, not wanting to say what he's about to say but he does it anyway "then Jungkook is shallow and doesn't deserve you."

♡♡♡

Another couple of days pass and Jungkook can't take it anymore. He made Taehyung's absolute favorite, cinnamon pancakes with strawberries and whipped cream on top. The first time Mrs. Jeon ever cooked it Taehyung's mouth literally watered.

So whenever Jungkook finds the plate emptied in the trashcan an hour after Taehyung left for the studio he immediately throws on his coat and shoes...he's getting to the bottom of it.

He get's to Taehyung's studio in record time, a panting mess whenever he approaches reception

"Which floor is Tae's studio again?" he breathes out and the girl at the desk just smiles, handing him a slip with Taehyung's info on it.

Whenever he makes it there, he smiles at the sight of Taehyung crouched in front of his sculpture.

Tongue barely peeking through his lips and furrowed brows as he chips away at the block of cement. For a split second Jungkook forgot how angry he was on his way here, but then he takes notice of Taehyung's frame.

How tiny and fragile it looks. His eyes water and he barges in

"Why aren't you eating?!" he shouts and Taehyung falls backwards, startled by the loud voice

"J-Jungkook, what are you doing here?!" he retorts as he stands up, brushing the cement dust from his pants

"Answer my question." he speaks. Voice firm and Taehyung curls into himself, ducking his head down refusing to meet Jungkook's gaze. "I am eating."

"No you aren't. Don't lie to me. You think I don't notice that you wait for me to leave the kitchen every day to eat?" he asks and Taehyung stares at him with wide eyes

"What? You think I didn't see the full plates in the trashcan after you left?" Jungkook voices out, as he steps closer. His voice breaks a little as he lets one of his hands run along Taehyung's arm

"Did you really think I wouldn't notice how thin you look?" he whispers

Taehyung looks up at him with teary eyes and Jungkook cups his cheek. Letting the pad of his thumb wipe away the warm liquid "Talk to me, Tae... please.. what's going on?"

Taehyung let's his eyes close and turns into Jungkook's touch

"I w-want to be attractive for you" he squeaks, voice low and Jungkook's hand immediately drops from his face

"What did you just say?" he asks, ducking his head to meet Taehyung's gaze "please, I don't think I heard that correctly, repeat what you just said"

"I'm not stupid y'know.. I-I notice things too." he lifts his head to meet Jungkook's eyes. If he's going to do this he's gonna do it for real, not hiding away. "The way you've always wanted me to go workout with you... The way you make comments about what I eat...T-the way you never want to t-touch me.. or be intimate with me... you always make an excuse, run away. Lock yourself in the bathroom" he scoffs and shakes his head, now angry at the ridiculousness of it all "how am I supposed to feel? or think? When my boyfriend of 6 months doesn't want to touch me? and you, you're sculpted like some Greek God. It doesn't take a genius to put the pieces together, Jungkook! I know I don't fit your ideals of beauty okay, but I'm working on it my way. So don't you come into my studio, demanding answers that you yourself should already know." he finally stops speaking and notices the horrified expression on Jungkook's face. He feels his heart immediately sink to his stomach whenever Jungkook reaches for him and pulls him into a hug. Murmuring I'm so sorry over and over and over again.

"Tae.. oh my God, why.. why wouldn't you talk to me? Why would you just assume? Fuck, baby you have no idea.." he shakes his head and grips Taehyung's arms tight, pushing him back a little so he can look into his eyes that he knows are full of tears right now.

"None of what you just said is even close to the truth.. Yes, I make comments about what you eat but only because I love hearing you explain to me why it's important for you to have three different types of chips at one time" he chuckles bitterly

"and I've always tried to drag you with me to the gym because I'm so damn addicted to you that I don't want to be without you for a second. So I selfishly make you go with me so that I can spend more time with you" He let's his hands rest on Taehyung's waist now pulling him close to where their chests are touching and he starts peppering kisses all along his jawline. "and fuck, Tae.. the only.. ONLY reason why I haven't gone further with you is because I'm so scared." he voiced out and Taehyung pushes him away softly

"Scared of what, Jungkook? What is so scary about being with me?"

The other smiles and shakes his head "everything. Have you seen yourself? Do you have any idea what it's like to be in love with you? You're unreal.. I seriously sometimes think I've made you up in my mind because I don't understand how someone so perfect could exist in this shitty world. and I've dreamed so many times of what being with you would be like that I'm so scared I won't live up to your expectations" his voice is a little smaller and Taehyung's eyes are wide

"I don't want to disappoint you, in any aspect of our lives, so I'm terrified of giving you everything because what if I'm not enough? Then I lose you again and I can't handle that!"

Taehyung closes the little distance between them and smashes his lips against the others reveling whenever he feels Jungkook's hands grip his waist so tight. "You are more than enough, in every way" he murmurs and Jungkook shakes his head

"N-no I'm not.. because for weeks I've let you think YOU weren't enough and I hate myself for that" a tear trickles down as he smiles bitterly "y-you have no idea how attracted I am to you.. it drives me crazy.. every little thing you do" it's murmured. The vibrations of the low tone of his voice ringing in Taehyung's ears and throughout his body.

"K-kookie--" but Jungkook stops him

"No..Taehyung no.. I-I can't believe you would think for a second that you aren't everything I dream of. From the freckle on your cheek, to your feet and everything in between.. it's embarrassing even, how I'm obsessed with every part of you"

"Can we go home?" he asks, voice low as he kisses all over Taehyung's neck "Can I show you how much I love you?" he voices out and Taehyung feels his whole body freeze with the implication but he nods none the less and leans into Jungkook's kiss.

♡♡♡

There are many things in Jungkook's life that he treasures.

His mother

His jack-of-all-trades talents

His  iron man figurine he won in 5th grade

Just to name a few, but nothing. Absolutely nothing, compares to the man underneath him right now.

Cursing himself for being too scared, too afraid.. too much of a coward. In his attempts to save himself from hurt he made Taehyung feel less than perfection...which Jungkook only WISHES the man could see himself through his eyes. If only Taehyung could see the way he sparkled in the eyes of his lover, absolutely radiant. Jungkook thinks his brightness could rival the sun even on its hottest day.

Taehyung, Jungkook knows, is his greatest treasure. One that he refuses to let slip and one that he never wants to doubt his value again. He can only hope—as they lay here together, Jungkook's fingers tracing constellations all over Taehyung's smooth skin—that the hours of tangling themselves in each other and their sheets got the message across.

Even if only a part of it. Jungkook is fine if the entirety of his feelings aren't clear because he's determined to spend the rest of his lifetime proving it.

Watching Taehyung's eyelids flutter as he sleeps, Jungkook is certain of two things.

1. There isn't a person alive more beautiful than Kim Taehyung.

2. There isn't a person alive that he loves more than Kim Taehyung.

♡♡♡

Taehyung wonders just how he let himself get so swept up in insecurities. He figures it would've been easy for anyone in his shoes—yet as he lay awake, warm yellow seeping through the black curtains to illuminate the room.

He feels like the luckiest man alive.

One of his fingers traces along Jungkook's jawline as he admires the way the sunlight reflects alone every feature. Their night replaying over and over in his head. As if replaying his favorite film. Loving words echoing through his mind and infiltrating every thought.

He can still feel the ghosting of Jungkook's fingertips along his body. With every sensation came words of validation.

I love you

You're perfection

I wouldn't change a thing

You're all that I want

I need you

The words have been spoken before, by many people..to many people.

But he knows. Taehyung knows that no one could possibly feel as deeply about those words as Jungkook does.

Jungkook exudes passion into every syllable as they roll off of his tongue, punctuated by the softest kisses.

There's really only one word to describe the way Jungkook made him feel last night—as they explored new territory together, engraved themselves into each other,

Taehyung felt like treasure.

He didn't even realize that his motions stopped from caressing Jungkook's jawline to just holding it gently, until he felt the other turn his head slightly to place a sweet kiss into his palm.

The shy smile that took over Taehyung's face was enough to wake Jungkook up entirely.

"Goodmorning, Kookie" voice barely above a whisper, eyes half closed as he watches Jungkook wake up.

"Mmm—morning handsome" Jungkook returned, grinning from ear to ear when he saw Taehyung's cheeks flush pink.

Taehyung rolled to his side, letting the hand that was holding Jungkook's face fall slack and rest on his firm chest. Nuzzling his face against the other's fluffy hair. He voiced out a thank you, so quietly Jungkook almost missed it.

But he laughed lightly, turning to face Taehyung—noses brushing slightly and he has to take a deep in hale to steady his heart rate. "For what, Tae?"

Taehyung doesn't know what he's thanking him for. He supposes it's a thank you for many things.

For loving me.

For being patient with me.

For supporting me all of this time.

For making me feel alive.

He realizes that there is no correct response to this question, so he lets himself close the small distance between them and press their lips together.

Humming in satisfaction at the feeling of those soft lips against his own, Jungkook's hand tracing his side just like he had last night.

He pulls back for a second just long enough to mutter out "for everything" before letting himself melt into Jungkook's arms again.

♡♡♡

It's funny, looking back on the last year, how drastically different things are. Jungkook can't help but laugh a bit to himself—as Taehyung is curled up in his lap with some romcom playing on the screen, his hand subconsciously rubbing along Tae's side.

He feels so so happy.

"Jungkookie?" He heard Tae mumble and shake him out of his thoughts

"Yes, baby?"

"I wanna talk to you about something" is what he said and Jungkook freezes because those where his exact words a year ago, when he left.

He felt his jaw clench when he hummed in response.

Taehyung must've sensed the change because he got up from his position on the couch, turning around to straddle Jungkook's waist with a sad expression.

"What's wrong?" He poured and Jungkook hates the way tears are already threatening to fall. He just shook his head.

"Please just say whatever it is that you have to say" he mumbled and Taehyung cupped both of his cheeks in his hands and forced their eyes to meet.

A fond smile taking over his face and he bit his bottom lip.

"I-I got offered a new exhibit... there's this museum in Europe that's hosting a Van Gogh tribute and they're including new artists to fill the empty hallways... a-and they chose me" he said, Jungkook's expression of anger shifted immediately into one of excitement

"That's so amazing Tae. That's the one you were nervous about right? When you sent in your portfolio? I knew you'd get it!" Peppering kisses all over his boyfriends face, loving the giggles that erupted.

Jungkook is terrified, he knows what this means but he can't

Bring himself to rain on this parade. No, Taehyung walked away from his dream for a year, he won't ask him to do it again.

"Kookie..ah...stop!" Tae shouted through his giggles as Jungkook continued kissing and nipping af the skin of his neck

"I wasn't done!" He finally said, lacing his hands around Jungkook's neck..fiddling with the hairs on the back.

Jungkook feels his heart sink to the very pit of his stomach.

Waiting and waiting and waiting for Taehyung to speak again.

So so terrified.

"I have to fly out there a couple of times to take my artwork, sign contracts, all that Jazz.." he pauses, noticing the furrowing of Jungkook's brows "I'm not leaving, Jungkookie" he whispered as he pressed a kiss to his forehead.

"The trips will only be a couple days at a time. Whenever the exhibit opens though, I'm gonna need to stay for the entire week and I-I want you to come with me" Jungkook's eyes shot up and Taehyung smiled at the excitement he could see flickering in the other's eyes

"Y-you want me to come?" He voices out, cursing himself for how fragile it sounds

Taehyung giggles and kisses his lips so softly, lingering a bit longer to justify it being a peck but who cares anyways "of course I do"

Jungkook tightened his hold onto Taehyung's thighs, making the man gasp at unexpectedly being lifted off the couch and Jungkook immediately attached his mouth to Tae's neck, "this calls for celebration then, hmm?" He mumbles against the supple skin of his boyfriends neck

And he can't help the overwhelming feeling in his body being with Taehyung like this, planning their future like this, loving him like this.

Jungkook is so, SO, happy.

♡♡♡

In the months leading up to Taehyung's exhibition, he finds himself much busier than he originally anticipated.

Suddenly doubting everything in his portfolio and once they told him he is allowed to substitute 2 of the 6 portfolio pieces for new work

He immediately began pouring everything he had into these pieces. Yet with every canvas painted and every block of cement he began to chisel.. he hasn't found any satisfaction.

He's feeling defeated, hopeless like he's failed as an artist before his career has even taken off.

And this is his third straight night sleeping at the studio and he's so tired, ready to throw in the towel and give up his slot at the exhibit, whenever it hits him all at once.

Like an epiphany of sorts.

An epiphany in the form of a tall handsome man, with a messy head of hair and baggy clothes. Strolling into the studio at 3:15 a.m. with a bunny smile and snacks galore.

A muse.

He finds it almost hysterical the way he's been soul searching and doing everything in his power to try to instigate inspiration, yet all he had to do was take a break and open his eyes.

"Jeon Jungkook" rolls off of his tongue in the softest tone. Causing said muse to catch his gaze with a puzzled expression.

Yet before Jungkook can ask what Taehyung needs, he finds the paint covered man flinging himself into his arms which he embraces happily. "Missed you" he whispers against Taehyung's messy hair "but you've really gotta come home and shower" he teases as he pokes Taehyung's sides

"I wanna go home. Take me home." He says as he presses his lips against Jungkook's hungrily and the other has to grip his waist to keep their balance.

"Okay, let's eat first yeah? You haven't eaten since I was here this morning?" He scowls and Taehyung nods with a pout.

♡♡♡

Jungkook spent all of last night packing their luggage's for Europe. Taehyung being adamant on working until the very last minute on his portfolio addition and refusing to let Jungkook come by.

He had plenty of free time on his hands. Now as it's 8 am and

there's another 3 hours before he has to pick up Taehyung and head to the airport.

Jungkook contemplates over and over before finally decided its time and rushing over to his parents.

"Honey what are you doing here? Aren't you and Tae leaving today?" Mrs. Jeon asks the moment Jungkook steps through the door.

He's quick to wrap an arm around her and kiss her forehead "can't a man visit his mom before leaving the country?!"

She quirks an eyebrow "yes you may, but my son isn't the type. So start talking about whatever brings you here." Turning to the fridge to get out a carton of banana milk with a smile.

Jungkook is fiddling with his fingers and bobbing his knee furiously—

"Baby, are you gonna tell me why you're anxious? Is it about the trip?" She coaxes, reaching over to hold his hand.

He takes a deep breath and looks at his mom, the only person who's always known everything he's ever felt. "I wanna marry Tae" he says nervously

Yet he's surprised whenever she just stares at him blankly as if waiting for more.. "that's it.. that's why I'm here. I've been nervous about it for months."

Now Mrs. Jeon has always prided herself in her ability to remain neutral and only give support to her son.

but right now all she wants to do is smack him upside the head. She groans and rolls her eyes "Aish, tell me something I don't know already. So how do you want to do it and do you have a ring?"

Jungkook bites his lip nervously and that's when it sinks in to her—

"Oh honey, you don't need to worry about that. Your father would be so happy to know that you're giving his ring to Taehyungie. Surely you know how much we've always loved him." She says softly and doesn't fail to notice the tear trailing his cheek

"I just... don't want you to think I'm forgetting dad. I want to use his ring to propose because in many ways Tae reminds me of him" he smiles whenever he sees his moms eyes fill with tears too.

She nods before bringing Jungkook into a warm embrace

"You're dad would be so proud of the man you are right now and he would be SO giddy to know that you and Taehyungie are getting married. So yes, honey, you have our blessing." Kissing his cheek and he hugs her tight

"I love you, mom"

"I love you more, Jungkookie"

♡♡♡

As soon as they landed, Taehyung insisted they go straight to the hotel and spend the only 24 hours of freedom that he has—here in bed.

At first Jungkook protested but the moment Taehyung crawled into his lap whenever he sat down to unlace his shoes, he was a goner.

Whenever he wakes up again it's nearly midnight and Taehyung's first meeting and set up date at the exhibit is in the afternoon.

Rolling to his side he presses a kiss to Taehyung's temple, looking up out of the balcony window of their hotel room.

It's surreal.

Just hardly a year ago, Taehyung was in a similar place—alone.

Jungkook was in their shared home—alone.

Neither of them could have foreseen where the last 15 months would take them, and Jungkook can still vividly feel the pain in his heart those days.

But the euphoric feeling in his chest as he feels the soft puffs of air leaving Taehyung's mouth as he snores into the crook of Jungkook's neck.. he knows he would endure all of it again, if it meant being where he is now.

So it seems fitting, to celebrate the end of Taehyung's first exhibit as Vante, and their first trip out of Korea together, by asking Taehyung to let Jungkook follow his artistic adventures for the rest of their lives.

It's going to be a long week with the weight of the small velvet box-burning a hole in his pocket...but Jungkook just knows that 6 more days is minuscule in comparison to the lifetime that they will, hopefully, share together.

♡♡♡

Taehyung didn't know how he would feel waking up on opening day. All of the preparation until today hasn't quite felt real, it hasn't sank in that he's debuting today as an artist for the first time.

He didn't know how he would feel waking up this morning but as he slowly makes his way into the kitchenette of their hotel suite and sees Jungkook tiptoeing around..putting breakfast takeout onto plates so quietly, he knows that no matter what happens during the exhibit—he's going to be just fine.

♡♡♡

Jungkook has watched Taehyung frantically pacing all morning trying to decide which outfit is best for today. Apparently the opening day is the most important because that's the day they invite all of the big wigs of the industry.

After watching him change for the third time—Jungkook creeps up behind him as he's adjusting his shirt in the tall mirror. Wrapping his arms around his middle from behind and resting his chin on Taehyung's shoulder with a smile. "You look great in everything, baby"

The smile he gets in return sends warmth throughout him.

He feels Taehyung take a deep inhale and exhale slowly, watches as his eyes flutter closed and Taehyung lets his head lull back to the side to rest against Jungkook's.

"Remember how I said I wasn't nervous during breakfast?" He whispers, Jungkook chuckles turning to the side pressing a soft kiss to Taehyung's cheek. "I know.. but don't be. You're going to do amazing. I'm so proud of you"

Taehyung turns around in his hold so that now they are chest to chest and he giggles a little "God, I'm so lucky aren't I?"

Jungkook quirks his head to the side and Taehyung pecks his lips once, twice, a third time for good measure "you see, there are several artists going to be there today. Some of us will do well, some of us will flop," he bites his lip to conceal his smile but fails

"But no matter what happens to me, I still get to come home with you and THAT makes me the luckiest man in the world" his voice is soft and low but Jungkook can feel the weight of Taehyung's words and suddenly the ring in his pocket feels so much heavier.

♡♡♡

Walking hand in hand into the exhibit is something Jungkook never knew could make him feel so proud.

But the moment they entire those double doors and the eyes in the room turn to them, his chest swells with pride because the most gorgeous person in the entire planet is his.

"Taehyung!" A voice calls from behind them as they're listening to a story from the head of the museum foundry, Jungkook turns to follow the voice and see's a man he doesn't recognize briskly walking their way with a big smile.

"Jihan!" Taehyung squeals when he finally turns to see the approaching man and lunges forward to hug him.

Jungkook is many things, one of them is possessive but he's gonna try. He has years of experience in this, after-all. Years of being bestfriend's with a social butterfly.

"I was just on my way to your exhibit!! Have you seen mine yet?" The boy asks to which Taehyung shakes his head

"No. Mr. Park stopped us the moment we walked in" he gestures back to Jungkook and the guys eyes widen

"Us? Who did you bring Taehyung?" And no, It didn't hurt Jungkook at all that the guy didn't seem to know who he was.

Okay, maybe it did, a little but any insecurity that blossomed died quickly whenever Taehyung reaches to interlink their fingers and yank him forward—

"THIS is Jungkookie.." he says and Jungkook watches as the guys eyes go huge "oh my god! Hi! You have no idea how much Taehyung whined about you whenever we first met last year!" He says and Jungkook raises a playful eyebrow at Taehyung who's face is red.

They're finally making their way down the hall towards Taehyung's exhibit whenever Jungkook pulls him to a stop and holds on his waist tight, pressing a slow kiss to Taehyung's lips to which the other sighs into.

"What was that for?" He whispered

Jungkook took his hand and continued walking "just felt like it" he chuckled and didn't fail to notice the way Taehyung's hand went to his mouth..a habit of his whenever he's flustered.

The first thing Jungkook notices, whenever they see all of Taehyung's work—

Is the giant poster on an easel at the entrance, it has a beautiful portrait of Taehyung and a little biography.

Vante in thin, crisp letters across the bottom.

It's incredible seeing Taehyung like this but what's even more incredible is when he reads the biography And a knot builds up in his throat

"—and of all the things in his life that have contributed to his works. Vante accredits every bit of who he is as an artist to the person that inspires his soul...JJK."

Whenever he turns around he sees Taehyung's head being talked off and he's grateful because Jungkook is a bit embarrassed at the tears that threaten to fall from his eyes but whenever he turns to look around at all of works Taehyung has displayed, they come right back up as he stares at the only piece he doesn't recognize

It's Taehyung's turn to come up behind him, resting a head on his shoulder, arms around his waist. "What do you think?" He murmurs as Jungkook's eyes follow the paint splashes

"When did you have time to paint, me?" He asks in disbelief and Taehyung giggles

"I painted it the day after you saved me from my 72 hour studio binge. Took me 6.5 hours." Pressing a soft kiss behind the shell of Jungkook's ear "it's the most beautiful painting I've ever done" he says and Jungkook shakes his head but Taehyung doesn't give him a chance to

argue because he pulls a big sold sticker and slaps it onto the corner of the painting with a smile. Watching Jungkook's eyes go wide "w-who is paying for a painting of ME?!?!" He asks a little frantic and Taehyung smiles as he steps away to reveal Mrs. Jeon standing behind them

"Mom?" Jungkook shouts in disbelief and she smiles taking both of them into a hug

"Did you really think I wouldn't be here for Taehyungie's first ever exhibit? Please," turning to kiss Taehyung's forehead "wouldn't miss it for the world"

♡♡♡

The week goes by in a flash. Taehyung spending every second that the museum is open, networking. By the final day he's managed to sell every piece he brought and has two commissioned works ordered.

Today is a little weird because Jungkook decided to stay back at the hotel—

Taehyung would be lying if he said he didn't feel a tad disappointed but he understands. It's been an exhausting week and Jungkook our everything of his own on hold to come here. So he just patiently waits for the day to end so he can hurry to enjoy their last night in Europe.

Jungkook is a nervous wreck. He's certain none of this would be possible if his mom hadn't flown out to help.

"Okay honey, everything is finished. Go hurry and shower, I'm gonna call Taehyungie to figure out where he's at now!!" She says, voice laced with excitement

You'd think that given as much history as the two of them share, that Jungkook would feel more confident going into this..he doesn't. If anything he feels that much more pressure because years and years of their friendship have built up to this moment.

He takes one last glance at everything before sighing heavily with a smile.

"You've got 20 minutes before Taehyu—oh Kookie.." she mutters out, tears falling immediately "you look so handsome" cupping his cheek with her hand and kissing his forehead 

"I'm so happy for you" she whispers "but I'm gonna go now, okay? My flight is in an hour. Call me whenever you get your answer.. even though I already know what it is" she giggles and he hugs her tighter

"Thank you for everything, mom"

♡♡♡

Jungkook didn't think it was possible to feel anymore nervous than he felt while getting ready...he stands corrected. With Taehyung about to arrive any minute, his palms are sweaty and he feels his whole body trembling.

Rehearsing different lines in his head—Knowing good and well that he will forget everything the moment he sees him.

And of course, that's exactly what happens whenever their hotel room door swings open and Taehyung walks in, stealing what little bit of air Jungkook had left in his lungs.

"Kookie?? What are you all dolled up for?" Taehyung asks as he glides right into Jungkook's trembling arms.

He feels his entire body relax once he has Taehyung in his hold and the man presses soft kisses to his neck, "hmm?" Taehyung coaxes

Jungkook has a feather light grip on Taehyung's chin whenever he pulls their lips together, feeling any nerves and anxiety melt away entirely as Taehyung runs his fingers through Jungkook's hair.

"Follow me" he murmurs against their lips and Taehyung's eyes widen

"Jungkook... what is all of this?" Taehyung barely gets out whenever he sees the sight before him on their balcony.

"C'mon.." Jungkook says sweetly, pressing a kiss to Taehyung's forehead "I wanna hear about your day"

They're sitting across from each other, legs tangled and a light buzz tingling in their minds as they talk. Taehyung fills Jungkook in on everything that happened today at the exhibit but the only thing the other man can think about is how radiant Taehyung looks under the low of the lights his mom arranged. (He makes a mental note to have her hang these up in their bedroom once they get back.)

"So the founder of the museum came to find me today" Taehyung finally says and Jungkook can head a little tingle of nervousness in the others' voice

"They are doing a similar thing to what they did here, but they're doing it in the US... they want me to go" he says and Jungkook's face lights up

"I'm so proud of you baby" he says leaning forward to capture Taehyung's lips, whenever he senses the other tense up he sits back

"Tae? What's wrong?" He asks and notices Taehyung's bottom lip trembling

"I-I feel so.. selfish... I-I can't keep asking you to follow me everywhere but I can't be without you either" he blurts out and Jungkook can't take it anymore, the weight in his pocket is overwhelming—

Standing up from the makeshift bed, he grabs Taehyung's arms and pulls him to sit on the edge. "Jungko—" but he cuts him off with a chaste kiss to the lips

"Y'know, whenever we first met I remember thinking you were crazy. I remember telling my parents really, that's the guy I'm supposed to be best friends with??" he chuckles a little and shakes his head "but it didn't take long at all, for me to realize that I wanted to follow you everywhere. The light you exude in everything you do, it's like—as if it's the sole source of my energy...without my light, I can't move forward or do anything. You have no idea how lost I was the month you were gone. A month doesn't sound like much to many, but after having you all to myself for years.. I didn't know what to do. I felt empty" he feels Taehyung's grip tighten on his hand and sees the water pooling in his eyes "I love you, Taehyung and I'm so proud of the person you've become and I'm even more proud to say that I was a part of it. You don't have to ask me to follow you, because I'm asking you—" finally leaning down on one knee he looks up into Taehyung's tear filled eyes with a smile "Baby, would you please marry me so that I can follow you anywhere for the rest of our lives?"

Taehyung glances from Jungkook's eyes to the small box in his hand and back up before lunging forward into his arms

"Jeon Jungkook.." he whispers, earning a chuckle "I really hope that's a yes" he says teasingly and Taehyung leans back to press his lips on the other's, pulling impossibly close and feeling intoxicated by more than the glass of wine they sipped. "As if I'd ever say no"

♡♡♡

"Jungkookie.." Taehyung asks as he walks into the living room where his fiancé is preparing a movie for them "why are your mom's initials on the inside of my ring?" He asks quietly and Jungkook bites on his bottom lip, grabbing Taehyung's hand and pulling him into his lap-

-he takes a heavy breath and it's as if Taehyung already knows by the way his body stills in his hold "because that's my dad's wedding ring—I, I told my mom the moment I knew I wanted to marry you that I wanted to propose with it becau-" but Taehyung cut him off slotting their lips together with so much emotion and Jungkook encased the man into his arms even tighter. Feeling complete bliss with the way Taehyung's tongue laps over his own, in the sweetest way.

Taehyung finally pulls away completely breathless and presses their foreheads together with a smile. "I don't deserve you" voice fragile

Jungkook cups his cheeks and pecks Taehyung's lips softly "you deserve so much more than I could ever give you. I love you so much, Taehyung."

"I love you more, Jungkook"

a/n: Wow... that was a MONSTER of a one shot. I was gonna make a whole separate book for it but it didn't separate into "chapters" well. I hope you enjoyed this as much as I enjoyed writing it <3