The day ended too soon for Jimin's liking. He missed Jungkook's warmth when he moved away allowing Jimin to carry on with his cupcakes. He had to force his pout away when the youngest received a call from someone and he left to take it with a demand that Jimin let him taste-test the first batch.

But overall, Jimin's day was much better. Jungkook was fun to be around. They talked a lot about anything and everything. It was so easy to talk to the younger. He was a good listener and listened intently whenever Jimin spoke.

The admiration he often saw in Jungkook's face when he spoke about his work or achievements was endearing. No one except Yoongi and his mom listened to him this patiently when he talked. But while their gazes held pride, the admiration was something he didn't get to witness often.

He was thankful the fall was here. The summer was hot and humid as it should be. This year was worse though. At least he felt like that every year. It wasn't his favorite climate. He preferred fall that brought a lot of colors and he loved winter though he wasn't a great fan of the cold. Jungkook had his jacket hung on one arm and his bag in another.

Jimin hadn't thought twice before hooking his hand in Jungkook's elbow after locking his café for the night. The youngest didn't comment and Jimin acted nonchalantly. However, the excitement fizzled when he saw Yoongi waiting outside their apartment with takeout bags.

Oh-oh.

He remembered asking him to bring lamp skewers and soju.

"Hello, hyung," Jungkook greeted with a warm smile before Jimin could.

"Hey, kid." Yoongi greeted with a smile of his own. Jimin relaxed a bit.

At least, Yoongi wasn't being too uptight with Jungkook anymore like he was in the beginning. He had considerably warmed up after he learned Jungkook made dinner for Jimin every night. The man might never agree but Jungkook earned his points by taking care of his dongsaeng from day one. He wasn't glaring daggers at the youngest anymore. That was a plus.

"I thought we could have dinner together. It's been so long we hung out." Yoongi waved the paper bag in front of them. "It's good you're here, Jungkook. I was hoping you would be here so we could get to know each other."

Jimin hurried to open the door while Jungkook took the bags from Yoongi.

"That's so nice of you, hyung." The youngest beamed and his doe eyes sparkled at the sight of the food.

Jungkook grabbed Jimin's bag while he removed his shoes and took everything inside. Yoongi who noticed the action lifted a brow with a smirk. Jimin rolled his eyes and went inside. The younger was already setting the coffee table with everything Yoongi bought.

"Wow, you brought lamp skewers? They're my favorites. Back home, my hyung always bought me lamp skewers when he got his paycheck." Jungkook's grin was broad and bright with that child-like wonder that Jimin's heart did that thing again. It fluttered inside his chest and he bit his lip looking away before he cooed at the gamer.

Yoongi was smiling too. His eyes had softened considerably as he regarded the gamer. "I'm glad. They make one of the best around this area." He removed his jacket, draping it around the back of the armchair as he took his seat.

"I'll get the glasses." Jimin hurried to the kitchen, wanting a little break but that didn't last long because Jungkook was hot on his heel.

"Hyung, I'll make some green salad. There's too much meat. Do you need anything else?"

Jimin whipped around with his heart stuttering again. "Ah, no. I think salad is fine."

Jungkook nodded with a smile. "Why don't you go and catch up? I'll join you guys in a bit."

"O-Okay."

The younger stopped him before he could leave. "Is it okay with me being here?" he asked, searching Jimin's gaze for something. "I mean...I know he said...ah...but, um...I can be in my room—"

Jimin put a finger on his lips, cutting him off before he could finish the sentence. "I asked him to bring lamp skewers because those are your favorites."

Jungkook blinked owlishly and Jimin admired the pink hues painting his cheeks. The younger suddenly looked so flustered and he removed his finger from his thin lips.

"Oh." He rubbed the back of his neck.

"Yoongi hyung is like family to me, Jungkook. It'll make me happy if you guys could get along."

The younger beamed at that. "Sure. I'd love that."

Jimin nodded and swiftly left the kitchen, noticing belatedly that their exchange didn't go missing from his hyung's watchful eyes. He avoided meeting Yoongi's gaze then. The glasses he went to grab were long forgotten.

It didn't take long for Jungkook to join them with a bowl of salad and the glasses Jimin missed. Jungkook munched on the lamp skewers happily, his cheeks puffing out like that of a squirrel as he let out an appreciative hum. Jimin realized he could watch him eat all day long. He looked so happy like that and it made Jimin happier.

"So, Jimin says that you're a video game artist," Yoongi asked casually, pouring more shots of soju. "Tell me what you do."

Jungkook's face lighted up like a Christmas tree. "Oh, I'm a concept and character artist," he launched into his profession without any hesitation.

Jimin watched in fascination for the umpteenth time as the younger talked about the animation and all the video games. Yoongi listened intently and even praised the gamer when he showed him some of his sketches. That was a lot coming from Yoongi, considering he used his words sparingly. But Jimin could tell his hyung was warming up to Jungkook.

"You're new to Seoul, huh. What about your special someone?" Jimin tensed involuntarily at the question. "A girlfriend or a boyfriend you left back home?"

Jungkook blushed at the question. "Ah, no." He rubbed the back of his neck. Something he did whenever he was nervous about something or when he grew conscious. "No one is waiting. No boyfriend I mean. I-um..." He suddenly looked so flustered.

Boyfriend.

Jimin's mind picked up that one word and clung to it with all his might.

He's into men.

"Painfully single then," Yoongi brushed off his sudden concern with a smile. "You know you can bring someone over if you want to. Just give Jiminie some heads up so he can be out of your way. Hwang had given him enough heart attacks to last a lifetime you know."

Jimin froze in his seat while Jungkook went rigid. His face grew redder as he gulped the remaining soju in his glass and reached for a can of beer.

"Oh. I...I'm, ah...not into hookups," he said shyly.

"Ah, that's fine then." Yoongi was grinning again and Jimin released a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "Our Jiminie is like that too. He's not into random hookups. So you're a one guy at a time type."

"I d-don't um...I mean I didn't date after what happened in high school." The tip of Jungkook's ears was red.

"What happened in high school?" Jimin asked before he could stop himself and worried immediately wondering if he asked something he shouldn't.

Jungkook sipped his beer. "He was my senior. We dated for a year and then he went to college." He shrugged.

"Oh, so you guys broke it off?" Jimin couldn't help it.

"No." Jungkook shook his head. "We were in this long-distance thing for a couple of months and then ...he ghosted me." He let out a dry chuckle. "No responses to my calls or texts. No explanation whatsoever. Then I found out he had a new boyfriend. Someone rich and better." He sighed.

"Asshole," Yoongi muttered under his breath. He then bumped into Jimin's shoulder.

Jungkook smiled. "I just wish he had told me you know. I wouldn't have held him back. It sucks but yeah...it is what it is."

"His loss," Jimin mumbled. "I'm sorry you didn't deserve that."

Their gazes locked for a moment and they shared a smile. It was warm and fuzzy, something assuring. Jimin couldn't look away.

"So I take it that you're looking for a serious relationship." Yoongi changed the topic.

Jungkook squirmed in his seat on the floor where he sat opposite Jimin and Yoongi. To be honest, Jimin squirmed too. He wanted to tell Yoongi to stop but it was too late. His hyung was on a mission and he was curious.

The gamer bit his lips and looked down at his lap. "Y-You can say that," he replied. "But I'm...ah, I feel I'm not ready to um...jump into a relationship immediately."

Oh.

Jimin's smile fell and his grip tightened on his glass. He looked down at his lap to stop the disappointment from showing on his face.

"Not that I don't want to," Jungkook rushed to explain and Jimin once again met the younger's gaze. "I mean, I just got into this company and I'm still an intern." He had a beautiful flush to his skin as he spoke. "I want to be able to take him to nice dates you know." He fidgeted with his fingers on his lap. "I want to buy him flowers and show him how much I appreciate him. I can't do all that now."

Jimin almost cooed at the adorable pout that formed in his face.

"I just have to wait a bit more," he stated with a wistful sigh.

Yoongi met Jimin's gaze with a lift of his brow and Jimin blushed. Jungkook was too sweet for his own good and he wished...he wished with all his heart that he was that person for the younger. Yoongi and Jimin drained their glasses and poured more.

"Why do I feel like there's someone you like?" Yoongi fished after a while.

Jimin's cheeks flared and his heart raced. He tried not to show his blatant interest in the conversation, failing miserably when his gaze locked with Jungkook. He realized he was desperate to know the answer.

He could see the fight on Jungkook's face then. His expression was so easy to read. "Yes," Jungkook breathed into the air, his voice a mere whisper but gaze never wavering.

It felt as if Jungkook didn't really mean to answer that question and he had no control over the way he acted. They were slightly tipsy from the alcohol but definitely not drunk and suddenly the air was too hot for Jimin. He felt dizzy just by looking at Jungkook.

"Wow. Tell me about this person. Does he work with you?" Yoongi leaned forward with his hands, supporting his chin.

"No." Jungkook shook his head averting his gaze as if suddenly realizing everything. He chewed at his bottom lip before meeting Jimin's gaze and red painted his cheeks again. Jimin waited patiently as Jungkook drained at least half of his beer.

"Not a colleague then. Tell me. Is he pretty?" Yoongi pushed.

Jimin wanted to tell Yoongi to stop. That he was nosy but he was too immersed in the conversation and he was too much of a coward to get all those answers from Jungkook. So he listened.

And there was that dreamy look in his eyes again. "The prettiest," the younger gushed with that iconic smile that always had Jimin's heart do backflips inside his chest. "He's..." Their gazes locked again and Jimin couldn't look away. "The first time I saw him, I thought he was an angel."

Jimin couldn't hold his gaze any longer. Their first meeting surfaced in his memory and he hoped his face wasn't red. He swallowed waiting for his heart to calm. His hands trembled slightly.

"An angel...wow." Yoongi whistled low. "Does this angel have fluffy pink hair by any chance?"

Jimin felt like someone knocked the breath out of his lungs and he noticed the moment Jungkook panicked. He broke out of whatever trance he was in and his eyes grew comically wide. He sputtered and looked like a deer caught in headlights.

He suddenly jumped to his feet. "I...I need to...pee," he squeaked and rushed to the bathroom with so much speed that Jimin worried that he would stumble onto something.

"Hyung," he hissed under his breath. "Why would you do that?"

Yoongi shrugged. "You wanted answers and now you have them. If something made you uncomfortable you can always pretend you were too drunk to remember." He was then casually grabbing his coat and stood. "I have to be at the company early tomorrow. I'll get going."

He couldn't argue with his hyung then. He did get his answers. And those answers were responsible for the hundred butterflies fluttering in his belly. "Oh, let me call you a taxi." He jumped to his feet.

"Already did." He put a hand on Jimin's shoulder. "I never thought I'd say this but..." He looked toward the bathroom door. "He's a good nut. Even if you guys ended up being only friends, he's good for you. You need more good people in your life, Jiminie."

Jimin laughed, his cheeks coloring.

"I'll see you later. Call me if you need anything."

"I will."

Jimin locked the door and took a few breaths to calm his nerves. He glanced at the bathroom door and felt warmth rushing to his chest. The flustered look on Jungkook's face when he dashed to the bathroom made him feel fuzzy inside.

Schooling his thoughts, he proceeded to clean the table and put aside the empty dishes. He busied himself with cleaning when the bathroom door finally opened. Jimin wanted to look back and ask if Jungkook was okay, but held back not wanting to make him uncomfortable.

"Oh, you cleaned already." Jungkook hurried to grab the washed bowls from Jimin to put them on the wire rack for drying.

"I got it, Jungkookie. Did you wash up?" Jimin inquired softly.

"I...um...I didn't." Jungkook shifted on his feet. "I-I'll...um..."

"Okay."

Jungkook pivoted on his heel and hurried to the bathroom again. Jimin went to change in the meantime. The warm, fuzzy feeling was a permanent resident in his chest now. Jungkook was so adorable. He was used to guys who did anything to get their way with him. But then here was Jungkook who thought he wasn't ready just because he didn't have a stable job yet.

When he came out Jungkook was drawing something on his iPad, face scrunched in concentration. Jimin went to brush and wash up quickly.

"Hyung, did you drink water?" Jungkook asked when he walked out.

"No." He noticed the extra glass of water on the table and smiled. Jimin sat beside Jungkook grabbing the glass and sipping it slowly. It was around eleven-thirty. "We should call it a night. You have work tomorrow."

"You start earlier than me, hyung," Jungkook replied with a smile. "It's amazing how you could even get up that early. I hate waking up before six."

Jimin chuckled. He used to be like that too, but then early in his life, he learned sacrifices should be made in order to attain something. Nothing in his life came easy. If everyone gave their hundred percent, Jimin had to give his hundred and twenty percent to achieve the same results.

"Come on, you'll be on your tablet drawing all night if I won't stop you now." He tugged at Jungkook's sleeve. The youngest tended to lose track of time when he got into that zone. "You drank tonight and it's late. Go to sleep. You can continue this in the subway tomorrow."

Jungkook obeyed with a sheepish smile. "Yes, mom."

Jimin laughed out loud, falling to the side as it caught him off guard. Maybe the soju had a part in it. He was a giggly drunk. Jungkook caught him when he was to slip off the couch.

"Careful, hyung."

"I'm sorry." Jimin continued to laugh.

Jungkook straightened him, sporting the same smile. The earlier awkwardness and conversation were long forgotten. There was no awkwardness anymore. That night once again Jimin went to sleep with a stupid smile on his face. He didn't remember that he went to sleep as a happy drunk. Maybe when he was in college? It didn't matter anymore.

As he began to slip into his sleep, he hoped he was Jungkook's crush and he didn't misinterpret anything.

***

"Hey, hyung!" Jungkook greeted cheerfully when Jimin entered the home on Friday night. The youngest had already showered and wore one of his black hoodies with black shorts.

The pastry chef was exhausted to his bones from being on his feet all day. There was a last-minute order for a birthday and though Jimin knew he was biting more than he could chew he couldn't turn away the disgruntled mom who wanted the best for her five-year-old. The bakery she ordered canceled her order due to unforeseen circumstances and Jimin was her next choice given her daughter usually loved the cupcakes he baked.

So Jimin being the sweetheart he was promised the young mother that her daughter would have the beautiful cake for her birthday. It had been a while he baked big cakes but he welcomed the change. He had started before sunrise and worked all day to get her birthday cake and cupcakes ready.

His stomach growled at the smell of the food and he sighed with relief, once again feeling grateful to the youngest. He hadn't had time to eat all day and was running solely on coffee.

"I'm famished," he announced, dropping his bag unceremoniously on the couch and marching to the kitchen. "Don't scold me, but I had this huge order for a birthday and didn't eat all day. I had to bake three hundred cupcakes on top of the birthday cake. I'm sorry and I'll be better."

Jimin didn't know why he was explaining himself or even apologizing. He felt guilty for not taking care of himself. And maybe he thought it was something he didn't want to hide from Jungkook, who always made sure he had at least one proper meal a day.

Jungkook quirked a brow and then narrowed his eyes. "That's not nice, hyung." He filled the bowl quickly and slid it to Jimin. "Getting orders is good, but remember, hyung, you can't continue to do what you love if you don't take of yourself."

Jimin smiled fondly. "Well, you know what sometimes it feels like you're oldest between us two."

Jungkook shrugged. "When you forget to behave like the adult you are, I gotta remind you. How can you forget the food?" He pouted.

"I'm sorry, mom." Jimin saluted and dug in. He scarfed it down in record time and Jungkook served him more.

"So, I asked Taehyung hyung to come over this weekend. Hope it's alright."

Jimin looked up from his food. "This is your home too, Jungkookie. You don't have to ask me."

"I know." Jungkook pushed his food around. "Actually, I wanted to ask if you wanted to join us? I mean we would be gaming but I think we could hang out for a while. He's the same age as yours and you both could be great friends. Taehyung is a great guy and...you know."

Jimin laughed. "Of course, I'd love to meet Namjoon hyung's younger brother. He talks a lot about them."

"Ah, I keep forgetting Joonie hyung is your friend." Jungkook shoveled the remaining two bites into his mouth, causing his cheeks to puff out.

Jimin hummed. "I have met Jin hyung once, but Taehyung is always busy."

"I'm gonna quickly clean this. Why don't you go change and get comfortable? He'll be here in thirty." Jungkook stood grabbing their empty dishes.

Jimin nodded. "Sure. I need a shower." He dragged his tired feet to his room first and then to the bathroom.

The hot shower relaxed his sore muscles. It was such a long day, but it felt good to come home to steaming food. He felt content. A warm smile stretched his lips as he changed into his shorts and pulled on a gray tee.

"That's Joonie hyung's coffee buddy," a deep voice greeted as soon he stepped out of the bathroom.

Jimin's head whipped up, his towel hanging from one hand as he was drying his hair. "Oh, hi!"

Taehyung flashed a very boxy grin that Jimin had seen in several photos before. The smile was even radiant in person and Jimin felt himself beaming in response to the contagious smile.

"Kim Taehyung." He extended a hand. When Jimin extended a hand though, the man was quick to pull him into a tight hug. "Jungkook says you're a 95 liner. We're gonna be best friends."

Jimin giggled in response. He'd heard a lot about Taehyung over the years he'd known Namjoon and seen a lot of photos and videos on Jungkook and Namjoon's social media. So it wasn't like he was meeting a stranger. It felt like he'd known Taehyung all his life. Very few people made that impression on him.

And he could, without doubt, say the man was a charmer and his hugs were warm. Not like the soft, assuring ones Jungkook now gave him every morning before he rushed to work. This was more like the one your best buddy gave you when you meet after a long time. Bear hugs like this could definitely be added to his list of favorites.

Taehyung was already dragging Jimin to Jungkook's room and climbed onto the bed patting the other side for Jimin to sit.

"Namjoon hyung and Jungkookie talk about you all the time," Jimin said. "It's nice to finally meet you in person."

"Don't be so formal." He laughed, plopping down on the bed.

"Sorry. A habit I guess." Jimin chuckled.

"All my friends in the industry are older than me by years. I'm excited that I finally have someone of my age." His smile never once wavered as he talked.

"Likewise." Jimin was genuinely looking forward to it too. Taehyung had that aura surrounding him that was so welcoming. "So...you guys all ready for gaming tonight?"

"Yep." Taehyung shrugged. "Kookie went to grab some snacks and drinks because he forgot earlier. It's his turn this week." He scrambled off the bed to fetch the bag Jimin didn't notice was there before. "You know I have two gaming computers at home, but he insisted that I come over because his Jiminie hyung will be all alone."

"Huh?"

Jungkook didn't want me to be alone?

Taehyung chuckled. "I can see why he desperately wanted us to be friends?"

"Why?" he whispered.

"Because you're amazing, duh!" Taehyung continued to set the equipment. "Wanna help me set up?" he asked already handing him a cable. "Here, I'll show you."

Though Jimin wasn't familiar with it, he followed his instructions with utmost care and by the end of decided baking was far easier than this. But he enjoyed the moment nonetheless. Being included in something Jungkook valued the most filled him with a sense of satisfaction.

"Oh, you're all set?" Jungkook walked in with a hand full of snacks and soft drinks. "Hyung, I know you aren't into big games. Wanna play Mario kart or some small games?" he asked Jimin handing him a packet of chips. "We can watch a movie if you aren't feeling up to it."

Jungkook's eyes were twinkling with hope and Jimin couldn't bring himself to say no that he sucked at games. He cleared his throat. "It's okay. I'll try Mario kart? I played it a few times with my...ah...ex." He looked down. Suddenly the idea wasn't appealing anymore.

Growing up, Jimin hardly had time for games. He began working at such a young age to support his education and everything else. It wasn't his fault that he didn't know the basics. But then Minseok happened.

"Is there anything you can do properly?"

"You fucking suck."

"You make me look like a fool in front of my friends."

Before he knew what was happening Jungkook was pulling him onto his lap.

"Hey, hyung..." Jungkook's voice was gentle in his ears. "It's okay if you don't wanna play." He was rocking him from side to side.

"I-I'm sorry." Jimin couldn't look up then. He didn't mean to spiral. His eyes burned and he realized there were a few tears. It was such an innocent question. He didn't expect it to go down like this.

"Hyung, look at me please." His voice was so soft that Jimin felt like crying at the gentleness of it.

He blinked his tears away and craned his head slightly to meet Jungkook's eyes. "Hey." He gave him a watery smile.

"Don't apologize when you have done nothing wrong."

Jimin swallowed. "Okay."

"Wanna talk about it?"

Jimin averted his fidgeting with Jungkook's sleeves. "It's just..." He worried his lip. He could do this. It was okay to talk about it. He took a deep breath. "I'm not good at games. My ex...he...he wasn't kind with his words to point it out the few times he forced me to play."

"What an asshole."

His head whipped to the other voice and he flushed remembering Taehyung was there with them.

"You know what? Let's erase those memories and create new ones," Jungkook said. "We'll show you how much fun it is."

There was a moment of hesitation. But then this was Jungkook. He had been nothing but kind to him. "Okay," Jimin agreed softly, feeling his cheeks flaring as he was now very aware of how close they were.

"Come, I'll show you the controls." Jungkook dragged him to the swivel chair. Taehyung took the spare chair Jimin didn't know existed before. Jungkook must have bought it because Taehyung was coming over.

When Jungkook sat on the chair first, Jimin wondered for a moment if he had to bring the spare chair from the kitchen when they began playing because there were only two chairs. However, the youngest just pulled him onto his lap once more, hooking his chin on his shoulder and hugging him from the back as he pushed them closer to the computer.

Jimin flushed red, unable to look up anymore. This was too close. His heart was beating too loud in his ears that he was afraid the other two would hear it. But Jungkook was already reaching forward, powering up the system. His teeth sunk into his lip as he tried hard to keep his face straight and not squirm.

"I have some cool multiplayer games. We can be a team until you're comfortable enough to play solo," Jungkook said and began to show him the ropes.

Jimin listened intently and thus the gaming began. Time seemed to fly when you enjoyed something and that was what happened. Jimin found himself laughing and invested in the video game for the first time in his life. It wasn't like he didn't make any mistakes. He was bad, but Jungkook just took his slip-ups in a stride and made it something to laugh about.

He was so into the game that he was complaining every time his cart went off the lane or when he hit a huddle. This too was a race and he didn't know the name of the game, but it had cute characters. Taehyung and Jungkook were laughing at his reactions.

Jungkook encouraged him to throw traps at Taehyung to slow him down and it was fun. Jimin especially loved the banana peels and giggled every time they hit the mark. Sometimes it felt like Taehyung purposefully ran into his trap, but it was fun. He didn't remember the last time he laughed so much.

The initial awkwardness and awareness he felt while sitting on Jungkook's lap were long forgotten and he was too comfortable now. It felt good. He felt good. It was around an hour or two later when Taehyung's elder brother showed up with fried chicken and beer.

Seokjin had a great sense of humor and made Jimin laugh every ten seconds with one of his dad jokes. Jungkook gave up his seat and joined Jimin in his bed to eat chicken while the Kim brothers continued to play. It was more fun to watch them go at each other. Seokjin was competitive and Taehyung wasn't one to lose either. They also kept bickering at each other which made it so much fun to watch.

Jimin drank a can of beer, feeling light and relaxed. He was drifting off when Jungkook shook him awake gently. "Sleepy?"

"Yeah." He blinked his eyes open, not realizing he had nodded off. He looked around and realized he was in Jungkook's room with his friends. "Oh," he said. "I'll go to my room then."

Jungkook turned to the Kim brothers. "Hyung, you can stay the night. It's late."

"Okay," both said in unison and continued to play.

Jungkook tugged at Jimin's hand and exited the room, throwing good night over his shoulder. Jimin did the same. "Hyung, do you have a spare pillow and blanket?" he asked once they were in front of Jimin's room.

"Yeah." Jimin glanced at him. "Where are you gonna sleep?" he asked, realizing Jungkook's bed can accommodate only two people.

"I'll take the couch."

"You can sleep with me," Jimin quickly cut him off with a frown. "My bed is big and has enough space for both of us. The couch is not that comfortable."

"Okay," Jungkook agreed immediately.

They were silent as they filed into the room and climbed under the cover. Jimin murmured good night and went to curl on his side. He didn't stay awake for long though. After a taxing day, it was even a surprise to him that he lasted this long. However, he was grateful that he stayed up to chat with Taehyung and Jin. They were both warm and it felt great to finally meet them both in person. With a deep breath, he drifted off to sleep.

The next morning when he woke up, he was extremely comfortable and he didn't want to move at all. Jimin snuggled deep into the warmth with a small contented smile.

So good.

He hummed in appreciation as the warmth tightened around him. Something moved against his cheek and he blinked his eyes open, slightly disoriented for a moment before he noticed that his cheek was squished against something firm and warm. He moved to lean back only to end up with his nose buried into the firmness and the grip around him tightened further.

Wait.

He didn't go to bed alone. Realization dawned on him and he pulled back to see Jungkook asleep with his mouth open. His lips formed a small, adorable pout that made him want to coo. He suppressed the urge to catalog his present situation.

His heart raced as he finally registered they were in each other's embrace. Well, Jungkook had moved to his side and was now attached to him like an octopus. Jimin didn't know how he even ended up in that position. He lifted his head to see Jungkook had locked his body between his legs and hugged him with both his hands.

Oh, God!

With a racing heart and flaming cheeks, Jimin tried to untangle himself from the clutches of the human octopus with four limbs. But Jungkook made a disgruntled noise in his throat and pulled him closer, tucking his chin over his head. Jimin once again ended up with his face squished into Jungkook's chest.

The older was too flustered to react immediately. He stayed that way for a few minutes before he tried again. This time though Jungkook woke when he tried to pry his leg off him.

The youngest, however, just blinked his doe-eyes innocently at him and greeted him with a cute smile before rolling to his other side and hugging a pillow instead. Jimin just stared at him with disbelief.

Why is he so adorable?

He shook his head with a small smile. That was definitely one of the best night's sleep he had in a while. Though he slept a lot better after Jungkook became his flatmate, this was definitely his favorite. He'd forgotten how it felt to be held in sleep. Sadly, none of his exes were big into cuddling.

Jimin was quick to shake those thoughts off and headed to the bathroom. He woke later than usual and had a lot of time before he had to head to the café. He decided to freshen up and make breakfast for the four of them.

When he stepped out, Jin was already flitting around the kitchen. He looked up to greet Jimin with a huge smile. "Hey, Jiminie. Good morning!"

"Hey, hyung." Jimin went to him, inhaling the addicting aroma of coffee. "You cooked."

"I wake early. It's a habit of mine." He smiled. "I made breakfast. Hope you like a Korean breakfast sandwich," he said, plating the contents.

"I love it." Jimin returned the smile. "I'll just freshen up quickly. Is Namjoon hyung joining us?"

The man ended up working late last night and hence went home directly instead of joining them. He hoped he'd stop by for breakfast at least before he left.

"Yeah. He's running some errands. He should be here soon."

"Okay."

Jimin brushed his teeth and couldn't help the thoughts racing back to his past. He tried to shove them away as he did always, but then it struck again as soon as he was under the shower.

"Jimin, can you not tell our friends that you're studying to become a pastry chef?" Minseok griped for the sixth time that evening.

"Why?" Jimin tilted his head to the side. "Isn't that what I'm doing?"

It was another party. Jimin had to trade shifts again with his co-worker to make it here. His patience with Minseok was waning thin with every party he was dragged to. He explained several times why he can't ask someone to cover his shift for him or call in sick. But Minseok never cared.

Minseok scoffed. "That's not even a proper profession," he hissed. "Look at them." He waved a hand around them, pointing at the crowd that was at various levels of inebriation. All dressed fashionable clothes from expensive brands. A guy he met earlier wore a tie that cost three times his paycheck at the café. "They're all chaebols. That guy, he's worth billions, and this one, his father just bought a fucking penthouse in Gangnam for his birthday last week."

Minseok wasn't a chaebol, but his father was a vice president in one of the conglomerates and money was never an issue for him. He also had a bunch of spoiled chaebol friends who threw a party almost every day.

"Didn't you know who I was before you asked me out on a date?" Jimin snapped after putting up with him for so long. He didn't see what was wrong with his profession of choice. Honestly, he was growing tired of Minseok being so controlling in their relationship.

Don't laugh too loud.

Don't dress so flashy.

What's wrong with your hair color?

Last but not least, now it was his passion that was under fire. Jimin felt his chest tightening. Cooking was in his blood. He loved it with his entire being. He chose this profession because he wanted to do something he loved. It was not only the right choice but also the one he loved so dearly.

"I told you to dress up. What were you even thinking?" He pointed at his shoe. "That's barely fifty bucks. How can you show up to a place like this wearing that?" He waved a hand over him. "I told you—"

Yoongi hyung was right. He let this go for too long and realized it was time he put himself first. A few people were watching and Jimin felt his body growing hot under the scrutiny. This wasn't the first time Minseok did this to him and it won't be the last. In his defense, he did buy that shoe yesterday for this party. He even felt bad for using the budget he set aside for his weekly expenses.

He stood up with a scowl. "You know what, Minseok, I'm sorry for myself for putting up with your stuck-up self for so long. I don't think this is gonna work between us."

"What?" Minseok jumped to his feet. "Watch your sound, Jimin. People are looking at us."

"No," he hissed. A few people in the crowd turned toward them as Jimin fought his angry tears. "If you're so ashamed of me why date me at all? You don't even want people to know that I'm your boyfriend." Jimin was tired of being forced to act like a friend at these parties. "I'm not a doll you can buy and customize to your liking at home. I'm a person, Minseok. A living and breathing person with dreams and passion. I'm sick and tired of you being a controlling asshole."

"Jimin—"

Jimin put a hand up to stop whatever shit he was going to spew. "At least I know I work hard for whatever I own." He squared his shoulders. "I bought everything I own from the money I earned, unlike someone who does nothing but takes advantage of his parent's easy money." He clenched his jaw and threw the final bomb. "And guess what? The sex was mediocre at its best. I've had better hook-ups unlike you who can't even get me off without me doing something about it. It's over. I don't want to see you ever again."

He knew it was a huge blow to Minseok's ego but he didn't stick around to find out. If the sour look on Minseok's face was anything to go by, he wanted to wreak havoc. Jimin was glad he listened to Yoongi hyung and refused to move in with Minseok when he suggested it once.

He left the party and went directly to Yoongi's home that night.

Though Jimin was brave to break up with Minseok, the effects his ex left on him were palpable. It took months for Jimin to come out of it and he never felt the courage to encourage another relationship again. Minseok's toxic nature stripped his confidence and had him doubt everything he once loved.

Jimin swallowed and shut the water. He schooled his thoughts. Don't go back. You're doing so well. Don't think about it. But his mind was in no mood to listen to him today.

However, instead of Minseok, this time it brought up Jungkook.

"Hyung, you look so beautiful when you laugh," Jungkook complimented one night when they were watching a movie.

Jimin felt the butterflies fluttering in his stomach at the memory.

"Hyung, I love your wardrobe. It's full of colors and suits you so well," he said one day when they were folding laundry. That day Jimin learned the majority of Jungkook's casual clothes were black, white, or gray.

He smiled fondly at the memory.

"Hyung, teach me your skincare routine. Your skin looks so soft and healthy. Look at my face." One night he complained grumbling about his acne problem.

Jimin dried off with a soft smile on his face.

"Hyung, you're so talented. I can watch you all day baking and flit around your kitchen. You look so elegant when you do it."

Jimin blushed remembering the day Jungkook joined him to bake cupcakes in the kitchen again. He couldn't help the way he felt about the youngest. Did Jungkook realize what he was doing? Jimin knew what exactly Jungkook's words were doing to him.

Jungkook complimented him a lot and never shied away from appreciating him for small things. It meant a lot to Jimin and he realized, in a way, it was healing him. It was once again building his confidence in himself. Even Hannah told him last week that he smiled a lot these days and there was a bounce to his steps.

Jimin realized he was indeed happy nowadays. All thanks to the youngest. He was replacing his sour memories with happy ones.

He registered the soreness of his calf muscles when he walked out of the bathroom after his morning routine. He had been standing all day at work and even a good night's sleep wasn't enough to ease the pain. He sighed as he continued to the kitchen only to bump into sleepy Jungkook.

The doe-eyed gamer rubbed his eyes cutely and beamed at him. "Good morning, hyung."

"Good morning, Jungkook-ah. Did you sleep well?"

The youngest hummed and dragged his feet to the couch. "Your bed is so comfy." He sighed contently as he plopped on the couch like a starfish. "I wouldn't be up if I hadn't smelled food." He scrunched his nose. "Did Jin hyung cook today?"

"Of course, I did," Jin yelled from the kitchen. "I know you're a sucker for my cooking. Freshen up and eat up while it's warm."

"Please...nothing can compare to Jimin hyung's cooking," he huffed and Jin muttered something unintelligible under his breath that sounded like 'ungrateful brat.'

Jimin smiled in amusement and tried to ignore the warmth that was rushing to his chest. He quietly walked toward the kitchen only to be stopped by Jungkook.

"Hyung, why are walking like that?" He was up in an instant. "Does your leg hurt?"

"Ah, it's nothing, Jungkookie. I was standing all day yesterday and it's showing."

"It's not nothing." Jungkook frowned. "Come here." He was already pulling Jimin to the couch.

Jungkook sat down along with him and pulled both his legs onto his lap. Jimin was too stunned to protest when he began to massage his feet. A groan left his lips and he slumped against the couch.

"Jungkookie, you don't have to." He tried weakly.

"I want to," Jungkook cut him off. "I'm good with massages, hyung. It'll ease some pain off your leg." He continued to massage and Jimin felt too powerless and too contented to even say anything.

What are you doing to me?

Jimin couldn't tear his gaze from the youngest. When was the last time someone took care of him like this? His throat closed with a tight emotion. The back of his eyes stung with tears and he had to blink multiple times to clear his vision. He cleared his throat and averted his gaze, trying hard to get his overwhelming feelings under control.

"Hyung, do you think you can take a day off from work? We are planning to hit the gaming arcade and a movie later this evening. I'll be really happy if you can join us," Jungkook asked. His doe-eyes were twinkling as if it held the entire galaxy and Jimin realized he could easily get lost in them. He wanted to get lost in them. He also realized Jungkook was still waiting for his answer.

Could he take a day off? Jimin never took a day off since he bought the business. He couldn't close the café.

"Hannah can open, right? You also have a part-timer who works full day on weekends. Can't they manage for a day?" Jungkook suggested.

"I suppose." Jimin chewed at his lip, suddenly excited at the prospect of having a full day to himself. When was the last time he took off? It wasn't like he was needed there. He already prepared everything they needed for the weekend.

Jungkook beamed. "Perfect." He clapped excitedly. "You can call Yoongi and Hoseok hyung if you want. That way our friends can get to know each other. I think it'll be a lot of fun with everyone together."

Jimin smiled. "Sure. When are you guys planning to go? I have to open the café and have a few things to take care of before I leave."

"After lunch. Jin hyung is driving. We can pick you from the café at around two?" Jungkook looked over at Jin for confirmation, who nodded.

"Okay. I'll check with Yoongi hyung," Jimin conceded, thrilled to have a day out.

Two hours later when Jimin showed up at the café, Hannah had already opened it and was setting everything up for the day.

"Good morning, boss," she greeted cheerfully, which Jimin returned with the same fervor.

"Hannah, do you think you can handle the café with for a day? Sungmin will be here at the usual time."

"Are you finally going on a date with your loverboy?" She wiggled her brows and he threw the cleaning rag at her with a huff. "Oh, my God! You are..."

"It's not a date," he mumbled, pretending to scrub the spotless counter.

"Oh, what do you call it then?" She leaned over the counter on her elbows and rested her chin on her hand.

Jimin rolled her eyes. "Namjoon hyung and his brothers are coming over. We're going to the arcade and a movie."

Her smile widened. "That's nice. You totally deserve a day off. When was the last time you had fun?"

Jimin shrugged. "I don't remember. I'm just excited."

"You deserve a break. We have everything we need here. You really don't have to work on weekends you know. That's why we are here for. You just spend the weekends baking or scrubbing the kitchen," she complained.

Jimin smiled. "I never had a reason to take a break before."

"Now you do," she countered. "I'll get the coffee going."

His phone rang taking his attention away from her. It was from Yoongi.

"Hyung."

"I just saw your message. I'm a bit tied up at the moment, but I can join you around four. Hobi said he will free his schedule for the rest of the evening. So we are on board."

"Thanks, hyung. It's been so long we hung out together." Jimin relaxed.

"I guess Jungkook is working his miracle again, huh? You don't just propose to hang out like that unless I force you to do so." His hyung fished.

"Um...maybe." He worried his bottom lip wondering if he should say it or not. He looked around and moved to an empty table. The café was yet to open for the public so it was just him and Hannah there.

He heard rustling in the background and a door shutting. "Spill."

"He...um...didn't go out like he does every Friday. Taehyung said it's because he doesn't want me to be alone." Jimin blushed though Yoongi couldn't see him. The thought warmed his chest. "He...um...taught me to play games and um...didn't even get angry when I messed up." Yoongi would know how much that simple gesture meant to Jimin. "I had fun. I was happy," he gushed. "Then Jin hyung came over later and so we um...ended up bunking together?"

"And?"

"We kinda ended up cuddling?" He cleared his throat. "So this morning Jungkook saw me limping and gave me a foot massage."

"Why were you limping? Did you fall down again?" Concern seeped through his voice.

"No. My calf muscles were sore because I was standing all day at work. I had a birthday order to fulfill you know."

Yoongi whistled low. "So he gave you a foot massage."

Jimin hummed. "And asked me if I can take a day off and hang out with them," he gushed while fidgeting with his sleeve. "The last time I had any fun was when we were in college. So I thought why not."

"I'm happy for you, Jimin-ah. You deserve only the best."

Jimin smiled. He didn't know where this would lead. But he was sure about one thing, he wasn't misreading the signs. Jungkook had admitted that he had a crush on someone and waiting to ask them out. He also slipped when Yoongi hyung questioned him. So Jimin really hoped he was Jungkook's crush.

"Jimin-ah?"

"Huh?"

"Don't overthink." Yoongi's voice was so soft and was laden with a fondness he reserved only for Jimin. "Remember what I told you?"

"Yes."

"He's a good kid. Even if things didn't work out romantically, you'll walk out with a friend."

That was the problem. Jimin wanted more and if he didn't know better he'd have claimed otherwise. But he was already falling for the youngest. Every day he found himself falling a little bit deeper for him. However, this time Jimin realized the ache in his heart was pleasant. He just knew he was investing his feelings in a good place. The feeling was so beautiful that he didn't consider the consequences.

"Hyungie!"

He whipped around coming face to face with Jungkook who was now dressed in a long-sleeved white t-shirt and blue jeans with his chunky boots. His wavy hair was parted in the middle his doe eyes shined so brightly. Jimin stared at him, his own smile lighting up his entire being. Yes. There was no doubt he was falling for this man.

"Jimin-ah!"

Jimin jolted remembering Yoongi was still online. "Ah, h-hyung, I-I gotta go."

"Fine. Send me the location map later. Go now."

"Bye." He ended the call and pocketed the phone. "Hey," he greeted the youngest. Their clothes matched. His brain helplessly supplied the fact and Jimin had a hard time hiding the way his cheeks heated up. "Gimme a minute. I'll be right out."

Jungkook nodded and went out. Jimin hurried to the counter, finishing up a few things as Hannah approached him with coffee to go. He lifted a brow in question, noticing she had one for everyone.

"I went outside to see what they wanted while you were busy, ogling your lover boy." She winked. "Go and have fun." She thrust the coffee into his hands. "Here, also packed a few muffins for later."

He beamed. "You're the best!"

"I know. Now go. Shoo."

"Ok. Ok." He grabbed the drinks and rushed outside.

Jungkook was waiting outside the car. He perked up when he noticed Jimin approaching and he opened the door for him. If Jimin melted at the gesture, he hoped it didn't show in his face. Jin and Taehyung were bickering loudly in the front seat with Jin driving while Namjoon sat in the back. He waved at Jimin with a roll of his eye at his sibling's incessant banter.

"What's going on?" he asked Namjoon, handing him the coffee while Jungkook climbed after him. Jimin sat in the middle seat.

"They still haven't decided where to go," Namjoon griped. His eyes said 'I-told-you-so.'

Jimin chuckled under his breath as he supplied coffee to everyone and took a sip from his cup. He'd heard several stories from Namjoon to know their indecisive nature. Beside him, Jungkook looked resigned. Fortunately, after five minutes both settled for a retro sports bar, making others sigh in relief.

If he had known they were headed to the bar, he wouldn't have brought the coffees. But no one was complaining. The short drive was full of fun and filled with more banter. Jimin couldn't help but laugh at every joke Jin kept cracking. Though Jimin heard about the bar a few times it was his first time here. They were early but they were live-streaming eSports games on TVs and there was a moderate crowd given it was a Saturday.

Jimin's interest was piqued when he noticed the video and other tabletop games. It wasn't just that. It had other bar games like beer pong and darts. He could easily imagine himself having fun tonight. He quickly texted the address to Yoongi hyung before he forgot and pocketed the phone.

And thus their afternoon began. They all settled for beer not wanting anything strong since they planned to catch a movie in the nearby cinema theatre. A newly released Marvel's movie, which was both Jungkook and Taehyung's favorite.

The crowd was majorly focused on the live streams so the video games were mostly free. The friend's group went for the video games first. Jungkook and Jin proved to be competitive among them all. Taehyung and Jimin were having a blast by the side with Namjoon who was worst at the games just as Jimin.

Their laughter echoed loudly across the bar as Jimin and Namjoon made one mistake after the other. Soon the others were crowding around them. Their penchant for losing and fucking up with even the easiest games turned into something else. Instead of winning, they were now betting on who would lose first. The person with so many losses would be crowned as the winner and the person with the most wins would buy dinner when they hung out the next time.

"Why don't you stand aside and stay pretty like you're supposed to be?" Minseok had told him on one of their outings in a bowling alley. He had pointed at his friend's model girlfriend who fussed with every single thing.

Jimin loved bowling and was even somewhat good at it. But it had hurt him immensely. It was that night he realized Minseok was with him only for appearance's sake. He just wanted Jimin as arm candy and nothing more.

"Hyung, slow down. Namjoon hyung is close to beat you," Jungkook warned, pulling him out of these thoughts.

Jimin gave him a watery laugh and focused on losing. Sure, Namjoon was catching up. He was losing. Minseok never gave a fuck about how he felt and here they were changing the rules of the game just for his and Namjoon's sake. He was overwhelmed with emotions. Yoongi was right. He needed more friends like this. With them, even losing was fun. It didn't make him feel like a failure. He felt like he was achieving something even in reality he lost game after game.

Jungkook suddenly hugged him from behind, taking control of the keys as he sent Jimin's racing cart off the tracks, making it bump into a huddle purposefully. Namjoon's cart raced past him thereby making Jimin lose the game once more. They were on a tie with each losing five rounds each. This game would decide who the loser of the day was.

"Ha!" Jungkook fist pumped in the air. "Jimin hyung is the winner."

"Hey, you cheated," Namjoon argued, looking every bit offended. "I'd have won if you hadn't intervened."

Jungkook just shrugged. "No one said anything about helping. Jimin hyung won fair and square. Jin hyung pays for food next time because he's a sore loser."

"Yah! You ungrateful brat, I pay for the food all the time," Jin countered.

"That's because you're the old man here," Jungkook retorted.

Jin lunged putting him in a headlock and Jungkook fighting back. Jimin laughed out loud watching their scuffle. A hand wrapped around his shoulder and he whipped up to see Yoongi standing there with his signature gummy smile.

"Hyung!" Jimin jumped into his arms, greeting him and Hoseok.

Hoseok engulfed him in one of the warmest hugs. "Missed you, Minnie." He ruffled his hair.

"Missed you too, hyung. It's so good to see you."

The introductions were quick and Taehyung latched onto Yoongi much to his dismay while Jin and Namjoon dragged Hoseok away.

"It hasn't been five minutes and they already snatched my friends away," Jimin griped.

"Looks like it's just you and me, hyung." Jungkook sidled with him, bumping into his shoulder.

So the day progressed with them playing one game after the other and switching to water after their second bottle of beer. Jimin was just sad they couldn't play beer pong. One thing he was extremely good at. He could hold down his alcohol just so well. Yoongi was only his strongest competitor and could drink him under the table any given day.

"We should have come here after the movie," he said when they were heading to the next game. He really wanted to play beer pong. But that would mean they'd be drunk and would have to cancel the movie.

Jungkook huffed. "You've seen in the first place how the hyungs are. Maybe we can come here next week. Just you and me?"

If a pleasant wave washed over Jimin at that, he wasn't going to show it out. But his lips let out a traitorous giggle and it was too late to hide his excitement then. "I think we could do that."

Jungkook beamed. "You can leave work a little early next Saturday and we can come here. They're open till eleven."

"Deal," Jimin agreed without thinking twice.

Why not?

He worked restlessly and he deserved to take a break once in a while, didn't he?

They tried every game available in the bar and after a light snack headed to the movie theater. In Jimin's opinion, they should have come to the bar after the movie. But he wouldn't have it any other way. He had so much fun today.

Jungkook stuck to his side in the theatre. He bought him butter popcorns and drinks despite his protests to let him pay. Jimin enjoyed the movie.

The youngest looked offended when he said he only watched a few of the movies. He announced that Jimin was missing out on so much and booked the rest of the week, claiming he needed a crash course in Marvel Universe. Jimin played along because that meant he'd have to watch at least one movie with Jungkook for the rest of the week. Jungkook's words, not his.

When they were done, Jimin was too full to eat anything else and so was Jungkook. The friends wanted to head to another bar but Seokjin had groaned saying he had a shoot the next day and Yoongi too had a recording. So they parted ways with promises to meet soon.

That night once again, Jimin went to sleep with a smile on his lips. 

I wrote this for Gamer JK fest. It's ongoing and will be updated as and when I finish the next chapter.