Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Six months later…

“Honey, come on” Mrs. Jeon hurries her youngest son. “Everyone, take your spots just as we rehearsed. Give your best smiles!”, the woman sing songs as they all gather for the picture. 

“You okay, eomma?” Jimin asks her, handing her another tissue. She nods with a dismissing hand, still sniffling, remnants of tears still fresh on her cheeks.

“Yes, baby. It’s just that it’s not everyday your son graduates with honors, you know?”. Jimin smiles at her and nods.

“Our Jeonggukkie did it”

“Alright, everyone. Say cheese!” the photographer shouts, using one hand up to countdown, Jeongguk in the middle side hugging his boyfriend and all of them repeating the word in unison.

There are a handful of pictures taken. One of the whole family,Jimin and Taehyung included, Jeongguk with his parents, Jeongguk with his brother and finally the happy couple, a picture of Jeongguk embracing Jimin from behind, both holding the bouquet of flowers and the newly graduate’s diploma.

Once the hundreds of flashes end, Jimin turns around and takes Jeongguk’s face in his hands. 

“You are my everything, and I’m beyond proud of you” he kisses him square on the mouth, once, two, three times just for good measure. 

The younger melts with the kiss as he smiles through it, wrapping his arms around the smaller boy and spinning them both around, giggles bounce through the air and Jimin asks to be put down with kicking feet.

“Oh, young love,” Yoongi sighs with a dramatic roll of his eyes, standing slightly apart from the rest of the group. The late afternoon sun casts a warm, golden glow over the graduation ceremony, illuminating the proud smiles of the attendees. Taehyung, standing beside Yoongi, smacks him on the arm and gives him a playful glare.

“As if you’re not a total baby who needs attention 24/7, Jeon Yoongi,” Taehyung retorts, his cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and affection. Yoongi’s blush deepens as he looks down, his lips moving in a silent, “Yeah, well, whatever, I love you,” which makes Taehyung’s smile widen.

“Silly, grumpy old man,” Taehyung teases, his voice light with amusement as he wraps an arm around Yoongi.

Yoongi grumbles playfully, crossing his arms. “I’m feeling spotlighted and uncomfortable,” he says, scanning the lively scene of friends and family gathered under the white tent decorated with colorful balloons. “Let’s focus on the real star of the day, shall we? The one who’s about to walk off with honors.”

Jeongguk laughs, his voice blending with the buzz of conversation and the clinking of glasses as he turns Jimin around and wraps him in a warm hug from behind. They sway slightly, their happiness palpable amid the vibrant energy of the celebration. Jimin’s face lights up as he playfully snatches Jungkook’s graduation cap and places it atop his own head, the cap slightly askew.

“It looks great on you, baby,” Jungkook says, his tone tender and full of admiration. “I know I’ll see you in one of these caps someday soon.”

Jimin nods, but a small, unbidden frown appears on his face. Jeongguk gently tilts Jimin’s head to meet his gaze, his fingers brushing against Jimin’s cheek. “Okay, what’s with the furrowed brow? Haven’t I told you that it makes you look like a small raisin before thirty?” The soft rustle of the nearby trees and the distant laughter of children playing in the park add a soothing backdrop to their intimate moment.

Jimin rolls his eyes but can’t suppress a fond smile. “Stop it, you,” he whines, drawing out the ‘u’ playfully as the surrounding scene continues to buzz with joyful celebration.

“Why do you look so worried, baby?” Jeongguk’s voice is soft, a hint of concern in his eyes as he gently tucks a stray strand of hair behind Jimin’s ear. His expression is a blend of affection and reassurance. “Communication is key,” he adds with a playful tone, making Jimin chuckle softly.

“It’s just that—” Jimin begins, letting out a long, shaky breath as he stares at the vibrant garden around them, where the sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

“It’s about the acceptance letter, right?” Jungkook presses gently, his hands rubbing soothing circles on Jimin’s arms. Jimin nods, his gaze drifting away as he fights back the anxiety pooling in his chest.

“I still haven’t heard back from SNU. As usual, I’m bracing for the worst,” Jimin admits, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

“No, no, no. What have I told you?” Jeongguk insists, his voice firm but loving. “You’ll get in. You’re a five-star student, Jiminie. There’s no way they’d turn you down. Believe me, my opinion is totally unbiased,” he says with a wink, making Jimin laugh despite himself.

“Yeah right. I love you,” Jimin whispers, his voice soft but filled with sincerity.

“Not as much as I love you,” Jeongguk responds, his eyes intense with devotion. He leans in and kisses Jimin deeply, pouring all his love into the gesture. They pull apart just enough for Jeongguk to continue, his voice a low murmur as if he couldn’t bear to waste a second without expressing his feelings. “You’ll get that acceptance letter, as sure as I’m Jeon Jungkook, a fresh graduate head over heels for the most amazing boyfriend life could’ve ever given him.”

“Stop or else you’ll have to deal with my tears,” Jimin warns with a playful nudge, his voice thick with emotion.

“Take my words to heart, okay? I mean them,” Jeongguk pleads softly, pressing a tender kiss to Jimin’s forehead and lingering there for a moment.

“As always, my giant baby. Love you to the moon and back,” Jeongguk murmurs with a warm smile. He then pulls a beautifully wrapped gift from his bag, the blue ribbon sparkling in the soft light. “Here,” he says, presenting the box with a grin. “For the hottest and smartest finance manager that has ever put a foot on Earth.”

“Won’t that be too much, huh?” Jimin teases, grinning as he wrinkles his nose at Jungkook.

“No, never,” Jeongguk insists, and Jimin leans in to give him a quick kiss on the nose. “Come on, open it,” Jimin squeals, bouncing on his toes with excitement.

“You’re such a baby,” Jeongguk accuses playfully, and Jimin sticks his tongue out at him, still smiling.

Jeongguk carefully rounds the box in his hands, searching for the perfect spot to start unwrapping. Jimin watches with barely contained excitement, his eyes sparkling as he shifts from foot to foot. Jungkook’s smile widens, a mix of amusement and affection coloring his expression. He can’t help but think that his happiness comes more from the adorable bundle of joy he has in his arms than from the gift itself.

As Jeongguk finishes peeling away the last layer of wrapping paper, he reveals the surprise inside.

A camera.

But not just any camera—the one Jeongguk has been dreaming about, the model he’s been eyeing for its top-notch features and capabilities. His eyes widen in surprise and delight.

“Oh my god,” Jeongguk breathes, his fingers running over the sleek body of the camera. “You remembered.”

Jimin’s grin is as bright as ever. “I remember everything,” he replies softly, his voice laced with affection.

Jeongguk’s mouth opens in awe at the vision of his new acquisition, jaw almost hitting the ground so Jimin helps it close with a soft hand under his chin. “Baby…” Jeongguk says with a strangled voice. “You didn’t…”

“Once I’m free from finals, I’ll head straight to the nearest store and get this beauty,” Jungkook says, his voice filled with excitement. “I can’t wait to take pictures of you everywhere we go. Starting at my apartment—imagine you lying on my bed, wearing that afterglow of pleasure on your face every time I make you come, my shirt on and nothing else. Then, we’ll capture moments by the river overlooking the city, on the beach with the waves crashing around us, and in that cave under the hill where we made love once. I’ll create a photo album just for you.”

And those words were enough for Jeongguk to have Jimin ass up on said bed being eaten out, then the first round started and was the wildest one with Jungkook squeezing him against himself until they both came, then a second and third round came right through with Jimin riding him until Jeongguk felt scared for a moment of his dick falling off. They are both insatiable savages when it comes to sex.

Sex with Jeongguk is a heavenly experience.

Jimin’s cheeks flush at recalling their intimate moment, his heart swelling with love. He reaches out to gently touch Jeongguk’s arm, the other’s eyes full of gratitude and adoration.

Jeongguk leans in, his forehead resting gently against Jimin’s. “I mean it when I say you’re the best part of me,” he murmurs, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. “You really didn’t have to get me this, love.”

“Yes, I did. You deserve it,” Jimin replies firmly, his eyes locked on Jungkook’s.

“No, I don’t. And you’re crazy,” Jeongguk counters, his voice wavering as his eyes begin to well up with tears.

“Aish, I didn’t want you to cry,” Jimin laments, quickly wiping the tears away with the sleeve of his coat, his touch tender and caring.

“Well, yeah, did you think I wouldn’t?” Jeongguk says with a choked laugh, his voice thick with emotion. “This is more than I expected. And I mean it when I say I only need you. You didn’t have to, baby. You really didn’t,” he adds, his voice breaking as he pulls Jimin into a deep, passionate kiss.

“But I did, and I would a million times over if necessary,” Jimin whispers against Jeongguk’s  eager lips. “Because you’re my boyfriend, we’re a couple, and we’re in this for life. I’d spend my entire wage on you if it meant showing you how much you mean to me.”

Jeongguk’s eyes glisten with adoration as he breathes out, “Okay. But prepare yourself, because the payback will be something you won’t forget.”

Jimin arches an amused eyebrow. “Oh, no! God spare me!” Jeongguk teases, playfully bumping his forehead against Jimin’s. He smiles, showing all his teeth, the camera cradled against his chest as he savors the moment.

“How are we going to celebrate tonight?” Jeongguk asks sultrily, his eyes half-closed with a mischievous glint.

“I might have an idea,” Jimin murmurs, biting his lip as he leans in closer. Jeongguk cocks his head in curiosity.

“And what’s that?” Jeongguk’s voice is a low purr. Jimin slowly pulls down the waistband of his jeans just enough for Jeongguk to catch a tantalizing glimpse of what he’s wearing underneath.

Jeongguk‘s eyes widen in surprise and desire, his breath hitching. “You seriously want to see me dead,” he says, his voice a mixture of awe and lust.

"Come on, you horny idiot—you've got a celebration to be the star of!"

⍣

The Jeons’ backyard bursts to life, filled with guests enjoying themselves, savoring delicious food and dancing to the music curated by Yoongi. The air is vibrant with laughter and the clinking of glasses.

Everyone’s here. From Jeons' Corp associates to Jeongguk’s extended family, to his classmates, teachers, and closest friends.

Jimin, still basking in the joy of Jeongguk’s graduation, stands with Taehyung and Mrs. Jeon near a table piled high with refreshments. The biggest smile is plastered on his face as he watches his boyfriend with an overwhelming sense of pride. He couldn’t love him more than he does right now. Jimin watches him laugh with his group of friends, occasionally looking around the crowd for Jimin. Each time their eyes meet, Jeongguk blows him flying kisses.

Jeongguk’s mother proudly gushes about her son, tears escaping her eyes, though she's far better now than she was at the ceremony.

Suddenly, Jimin feels his phone buzzing in his pocket. He pulls it out and notices a new email notification from SNU.

His heart skips a beat, the sensation rising in his throat immediately. His hands tremble slightly as he opens the message, dreading the words he's about to read. Everything on the screen blurs for a moment before the words come into focus.

“E-Excuse me for a moment,” his voice cracks as he dismisses himself.

“You okay, honey?” Mrs. Jeon eyes him with a slight frown. Jimin nods quickly, storming off to find a quieter spot, hoping it’s far enough from the noise.

“Jim—” he hears Taehyung call, but Jimin continues pushing his way through the crowd.

He eventually finds a corner, tucked away among boxes and clutter left by the catering staff. He leans back against the wall, taking a deep breath that fills his chest and floods his body. 

“Come on, Jimin. You can do this. If it’s a no, then you’ll keep working toward something else. This isn’t the end of it all. You’re young. You’re capable of doing everything you set your mind to,” he tells himself.

Therapy has been making a noticeable difference in his mental health, and he knows it. It’s been almost a year now since he began his sessions with Haneul, and he’s proud of how far healthy thoughts have taken him.

He exhales heavily for the last time, squeezes his eyes shut, and clicks on the email notification.

—---------------------------------------------------------------------

Seoul National University (SNU)
Office of Admissions
XXX Mirae-ro, Gwanak-gu
Seoul, South Korea
Phone: +82 x-xxxx-5678
Email: [email protected]
March 15th

Park Jimin
4xx Haneul-dong,
Sarang-gu, Seoul
Postal Code: xxxx
Email: [email protected]

Subject: Admission Offer to Seoul National University

Dear Park Jimin,

On behalf of the Admissions Committee at Seoul National University, it is our pleasure to inform you that you have been accepted into the Department of Dance under the College of Fine Arts for the academic year of 2025. Your exceptional talent, dedication, and impressive achievements have distinguished you among a highly competitive pool of applicants.

We believe that your passion and commitment to contemporary dance will enrich our academic community and contribute meaningfully to the SNU family. We are excited to see the impact of your unique perspective and creative abilities within our institution.

To confirm your enrollment and begin the next steps in the admissions process, please review the enclosed information and submit the required documentation April 30th. Should you have any questions or require further assistance, our admissions office is here to support you.

Once again, congratulations on your acceptance to Seoul National University! We look forward to welcoming you to our campus.

Warm regards,
 

Lee Minseo
Office of Admissions
Seoul National University

—---------------------------------------------------------------------

Jimin’s breath catches in his throat, and he starts gasping for air as the tears begin to fall, one by one, like broken faucets. The reality of the acceptance letter sinks in, and he can barely contain his excitement, which comes out in heavy breaths mixed with sobs. His father’s image floods his mind, and that sends him into an uncontrollable crying fit. He looks up at the sky, smiling as tears roll down his cheeks.

“Appa, look,” he mumbles to the vast sky, praying his father is watching over him. Out of nowhere, a beautiful light blue butterfly flutters around him, finally landing delicately on his hand. He cries harder, squeezing his eyes shut, more tears springing from his eyes.

This is the sign he needed. He knows, without a doubt, that his father is proudly looking at him with the biggest grin on his face.

Jimin looks around, searching for Jeongguk, but Jeongguk is already sprinting across the backyard toward him, his face a mix of concern and desperation.

“What’s wrong? What happened? Why are you crying, baby?” Jeongguk asks, his voice filled with apprehension as he pulls Jimin into his arms.

“I—I got in!” Jimin’s words are muffled against Jeongguk’s shoulder.

“I don’t understand, baby. Be more specific, got into what?” Jeongguk asks frantically.

“I—SNU. I got in! Look! I got in!” Jimin says, louder now, turning his phone toward Jeongguk. The screen lights up, showing the email. Tears of joy fill Jimin’s eyes as Jeongguk pulls him tighter and  Jimin can feel the wetness forming at the neck of his suit.

“I knew you would! I just knew it!” Jeongguk exclaims, his voice thick with emotion as he holds Jimin close.

The rest of the group comes running toward them after Jeongguk shouts, “JIMIN GOT INTO SNU!” Every guest turns their heads toward the couple, smiling and raising their glasses in unison.

“Baby, no, no,” Jimin says through his tears. “This is your moment, not mine. Please.” His eyes widen.

Jeongguk presses a kiss to Jimin’s lips, mumbles against them, “I don’t care! I want to share everything with you—damn this party, baby! You’re about to become a college student!”

“To Jimin!” Seokjin shouts, and everyone at the party joins in. Jimin’s cheeks flush a deep shade of red, and he snuggles into Jeongguk’s side, bashful.

“I love you,” Jeongguk whispers, his eyes red from crying.

Jimin smiles, closing the distance between them with a heartfelt kiss, the cheers of their friends echoing around them.

⍣

Later that evening, after they enjoyed a quiet moment together in Jeongguk’s apartment, the soft glow of candles and the leftovers of gourmet food spread on the coffee table, Jeongguk receives a strange call. It's unexpected, but he answers, curiosity piqued.

“ Jeongguk ,”

Jeongguk swallows, his throat dry. “Chaewon.”

Her voice comes through after a pause, sounding both solemn and relieved. “I know me calling out of nowhere might seem... strange. But I wanted to let you know something. I—”

“Look, Chaewon, I think we’ve already talked about what we needed to. This is not a good time. We’re in the middle of a celebration, today is really special for Jimin and me, so if you—”

“That’s exactly why I’m calling!” she insists, urgent in her voice.

“What?” Jeongguk asks, confused.

“Jimin got accepted, didn't he?” she asks.

“What? How—How the fuck do you know that? Are you what, keeping tabs on us or something?” he sneers, his eyes darting around the house, suddenly paranoid.

“No, nothing like that,” she says quickly. “I swear, Jeongguk, I’m not here to stir anything up. I just... I know because I helped make sure he would.”

Silence stretches between them.

Jeongguk’s jaw tightens. “What are you saying?”

Chaewon sighs heavily on the other end of the line. “My uncle on my father's side is the vice president of Seoul National University. It’s my way of making up for what happened between us and showing that I genuinely want to make things right. I hope you both can accept this as my apology — and my father’s too. He’s still ashamed of the stunt I pulled back then at the concert hall."

Jeongguk is silent for a moment, processing.

“I’m not telling you this because I want something in return,” Chaewon continues. “ I just wanted you to know. After everything that happened, I wanted to do something good. For Jimin, and for you.”

Jeongguk exhales, glancing toward the closed bathroom door where Jimin is having a shower, unaware of this conversation. “I don’t know if this was a good idea,” he admits. “If Jimin ever finds out, he might start doubting himself—thinking he only got in because of some favor, when in reality, he’s brilliant. He deserved that spot on his own.”

“ Oh, trust me, he did,” she says, and there’s something almost reverent in her tone . “When my uncle mentioned a ‘prodigy young man’ whose audition tapes had stunned the admissions team, my family insisted on seeing them. I recognized Jimin right away. I cried when I saw him dance, Jeongguk. My father did too. I’m telling you, everyone who watched was left speechless. We never mentioned that we had known him before—we just gave my uncle the final push he needed to make a decision. He was chosen from thousands of applicants. No one questioned it. I just wanted to make sure there were no obstacles in the way of what was already meant to happen.”

He exhales sharply. “I didn’t expect this from you. But thank you, I guess? I think Jimin will really appreciate this. I just hope this doesn’t come back to bite us later, if you know what I mean” he trails off.

“No, it won’t. I swear I’m not scheming anything or setting you guys up. I just—I guess I want to wave the white flag and move on with my life. All I want is to turn the page and forget about everything I’ve done to you two. I really do wish you both the best.”

“Wow. That’s... that’s something.”

“Left you speechless, huh? Bet you didn’t see that coming,” she jokes lightly.

“You did. But hey, I—thank you, honestly. This is something Jimin won’t ever forget. He’s been all over the place since he got the letter, so... seeing him happy is all I need in life. Thank you, Chaewon. From the bottom of my heart.”

“Damn, you’re in so deep, Jeon. I don’t blame you, Jimin is one unique guy. I can see why you fell so hard for him. Jimins don’t come twice in life. I wish someday someone sees me the way you see him, you know? I guess that’s what I always envied in him. Being truly loved by a guy.”

“I’m sure you will. At its due time” he assures.

“You never know, but I won’t let that dictate my actions anymore, I’m more than that. I’ll work on myself first of all, there’s some issues that uh— that need urgent care at the moment”

"I think that’s a really smart idea. Healthy. Chae—I... I really hope we can move on from all this. I just want to keep our slates clean and start fresh. We both made mistakes that led to awful consequences, but they taught us something. Let’s make it worth it and not just a wasted opportunity to be better people.”

Jeongguk hears a soft sniffle through the phone. “I agree.”

“See you around. Thanks again.”

“Bye. And... send my regards to Jimin as well.”

“I will”. Jeongguk hangs up the phone, his mind racing with the unexpected turn of events. Chaewon really outdid herself this time. She actually did something huge for Jimin, setting peace among all sides.

Jimin walks into the room, drying his hair with a towel after his bath.

“Everything good?”

“Yeah,” Jeongguk replies, his voice warm.

“Were you talking on the phone?” Jimin asks casually as he sits next to Jeongguk and turns the TV on.

“Yes, Chaewon just called.”

“Oh, okay. That’s good—WHAT?” he shouts once the information sinks in.

Jeongguk laughs at Jimin’s reaction and pulls him closer by the waist, but Jimin immediately pulls away, groaning, “Why would she call? Oh my God, I was having a good day. What does she want now? I swear to fucking—”

“Baby, stop,” Jeongguk says, still giggling.

“And why are you laughing now? What’s gotten into you? Since when does Chaewon calling put you in this mood?” Jimin chastises, outraged.

“She’s the one who got you into SNU. Her uncle is the vice president, and she used that to make sure your application was accepted.”

“Chaewon did what?” he asks, puzzled. “And she called you to let you know that?” Jeongguk hums. “Wow”

“I know. It seems like she wanted to make amends for the past,” Jeongguk explains. “She wanted you to know.”

“So out of character,” he murmurs, absentmindedly playing with the threads of his t-shirt.

“It is. But this teaches us something,” Jeongguk concludes.

“And that would be...?” Jimin smirks.

“That we should never lose faith in humanity. Even the Reginas can have a change of heart.”

Jimin processes the news, his emotions a mix of surprise and gratitude. “Well, I guess that’s one way to make up for things. I’m just happy I got in. Let’s focus on what’s ahead of us, right?”

Jeongguk nods and pulls Jimin close. “Absolutely. Here’s to new beginnings,” he murmurs softly, nuzzling against his boyfriend’s neck. The kisses grow more passionate, gradually making their way to each other’s mouths. Their lips crash into each other, tongues now dancing but fighting for dominance at the same time. Jeongguk gently pushes Jimin onto the couch, pressing his body into him.

“Baby,” Jimin breathes out, a soft moan escaping that drives Jeongguk wild.

“Fuck you’re sexy baby. Feels like I'm gonna die and I’m not even against it, honestly” he groans as they start making out with everything they’ve got. They continue kissing, losing themselves in the moment, both completely wrapped up in the sensation of each other. Jimin makes sounds that go directly to Jeongguk’s cock and make it twitch. 

“Oh” Jimin smirks, feeling it entirely against his own. “Does this guy want to come out to play?” grabbing around Jungkook’s growing bulge.

Jeongguk lets out a desperate moan, struggling to hold back. ”Stop if you don't want me to cream my pants” 

Jimin giggles, leaning in to whisper in Jeongguk’s ear. ”Don’t worry, I’d lick your cock clean and make it come again but inside of me this time. Wanna feel it everywhere, want it to shape my insides just the size of it”

Jeongguk moans louder, his desperation barely contained. They undress each other at an embarrassing speed, considering it hasn’t been long since they last had sex. Five hours to be exact. Last one being a quickie in the guest bathroom at the Jeons’ house, right after receiving the news of the acceptance. Jimin keeping his hands onto the sink for leverage and Jeongguk fucking him from behind, loud and messy.

But they both know they’re wild in bed, so what’s the point in questioning anything or doing the math, anyway?

Jeonggk walks his fingers playfully down Jimin’s back area, kneading his ass from time to time. He attempts to insert one of them into Jimin’s hole when he notices it is wet and lubed up already. He cocks his head and looks at Jimin with hooded eyes. Jimin, all sweaty and fucked out, smiles.

“In the shower” he confirms. The younger is rabid, the beast in him, out. 

“Fuck, fuck, fuck fuck” He mumbles, his voice low and filled with urgency, as he pulls his boyfriend closer, spreading his legs apart onto the couch with a force that matches his desperate need. He strokes his cock with some of the lube that pours out of Jimin’s pink hole. He leans closer to Jimin’s entrance and laps his tongue into it several times, eating him out with one, two, three fingers at the same time. 

“I’m ready, I’m ready please put it in right now, I need it I need it—Mmmph-” Jeongguk’s cock bottoming out completely interrupts him. 

Jeongguk fills him up right away, thrusting into him with a vigor not commonly found.

“F-fuck” the brunette moans, “if you don’t make me come at least three times with this massive cock of yours then I’m suing”.

Jeongguk groans. “Really? You're gonna do that to the person who gives you cock on a daily basis?” he says between painful thrusts that push Jimin up and down the leathered couch. 

“The leather is making me uncomfy with all the sweat in my back and ass, baby. Let’s take it to the floor” Jimin suggests, breathing the words out.

Jeongguk, obedient to his boyfriend as per the rule, circles his arms around him, and Jimin catches the drift by enveloping Jeongguk’s waist with his thighs. “As you wish, princess."

He holds Jimin now and carefully deposits him onto his black, furry living room rug. Jeongguk lines his cock to Jimin’s entrance again and they continue to make love like two desperate teenangers, thrashing among moans and breathy sweet nothings onto the rug, the fireplace the backdrop of a night full of passion and love.

Later when they finish their rendezvous, they both end up in the shower with Jeongguk helping Jimin out to empty his hole with all the excessive come that oozes out of it. 

Jimin makes a mental note to buy a buttplug.

Three months later…

The evening air is crisp as the sun sets over the city. Inside a vibrant dance studio, the atmosphere is overwhelming. The walls lined with mirrors and the stage adorned with colorful lights just make the perfect environment, it screams Jimin everywhere. Jimin, Hoseok, and a group of young dancers are rehearsing for their showcase, their movements synchronized and full of energy. The sound of music and the rhythm fill the room with life.

Jungkook is sitting down as the only audience, watching with admiration the choreography Jimin and Hoseok pulled up. He’s beaming with pride as Jimin, in the spotlight, leads the performance with grace and confidence, once they finish he cheers, clearly captivated by the show.

After the rehearsal, the studio is abuzz with excitement, the kids are thrilled that they finally got the choreo right. It’s been months of intense work and practice and both Jimin and Hoseok are content with the outcome, they smile at each other as they dry  their sweat with the hem of their t-shirts, both flushed with the thrill of the upcoming show.

“Thoughts?” Jimin asks his boyfriend, who looks at him with a radiant smile and a camera in his hands. He lifts it to his eyes and captures Jimin walking toward him, blinking at the sudden flash.

“Baby,” Jimin whines as he joins him on the floor, Jeongguk doesn’t miss a beat and kisses the side of his head.

“You’re perfect, and as a perfect individual, you can only accomplish perfect things. Like this choreography—perfect.” Jimin smiles, a flush creeping up to his ears as he buries his face into his boyfriend’s shoulder.

“Aish, you two make honey jealous!” Hoseok laughs, shaking his head at the lovebirds. “I’m gonna start questioning Mingyu about why he doesn't say sweet things like that to me,” he pouts. “Oh! I forgot to tell Hanna's mom something. Be right back,” he excuses himself, heading out.

“Excited about the showcase?” Jeongguk asks, turning to Jimin and interlacing their fingers together. The older man sighs and shrugs. 

“More like dying?,” he asks to himself, pursing his lips.

“You’ll do amazing, baby. I’m so sure of it.” Jeongguk lifts their joined hands and kisses Jimin’s. He then pulls him close, cuddling against Jimin by the mirror. “I’ll bring you the most beautiful flowers backstage and a giant box of chocolates,” he promises with a reassuring smile.

“You better deliver,” Jimin whines, giving him a playful punch on the chest.                                                                   

It’s two weeks later, and Jeongguk finds himself sitting in the audience of the venue where the showcase is about to take place. He’s surrounded by proud parents, all shaking with excitement in their seats, cameras and phones angled at the stage that remains lit but empty, the curtain pulled apart. He’s nervous—has been since he woke up by Jimin’s side this morning—but he wouldn’t tell Jimin that, of course. The latter has been electric ever since he stepped out of bed, and he didn't want to make things worse by letting his own anxiety show.

He feels a hand squeeze his leg tightly but affectionately. “It’s gonna be alright,” says Taehyung.

“I know, I know, it’s just that I’m nervous. This means a lot to Jimin, and I want him to enjoy it and make a good memory out of it,” Jeongguk says, worrying his lip between his teeth.

“What’s the worst-case scenario? That he falls and breaks a leg?” Yoongi teases.

Jeongguk scoffs and threatens to flick Yoongi’s forehead, but Yoongi surges back into his seat. “You’re dead meat,” he threatens.

“Okay, okay, stop it right now. I want to have a peaceful moment here, not you two youngsters playing around,” Seokjin admonishes.

“ Youngsters ? I’m literally a year younger than you, hyung” Yoongi defends himself from the accusations.

“And I’m 25, not a kid,” Jeongguk says, folding his arms.

Seokjin looks at him for a moment, then adds, “You see? A kid.”

Jeongguk mumbles something under his breath, but Seokjin doesn’t ask him to elaborate, simply rolls his eyes. 

“Baby,” Namjoon calls out softly, caressing his hands. His boyfriend purses his lips.

“Don’t you judge an older brother defending his little brother, you big body,” Seokjin threatens, poking the other’s chest with his finger. Namjoon promptly clamps his mouth shut. Mingyu watches them all curiously and Taehyung chimes in.

“Poor Mingyu, I don’t think he’ll ever get used to our madness,” he giggles, shooting an apologetic look at Hoseok’s boyfriend.

“It’s okay, guys,” Mingyu assures them, a blush painting his cheeks.

The lights in the venue dim, and the curtain pulls closed, a wave of applause erupting in excitement.

“It’s time!” Taehyung sings, impersonating Mariah Carey with her trademark whistle note.

Jeongguk lets out a deep breath, his eyes zeroing the stage. His body is tense, hands sweating. He forms fists with his hands, then stretches them out before placing them gently on his lap.
 

“Come on, baby, you can do it,” he whispers.

The curtain rises, revealing the kids in their positions already. A collective string of Awws fills the air, followed by applause. Some of the mothers are already wiping away tears.

In comes Hoseok, positioning himself at the front, crouching low. And finally, him. The man of the hour in Jeongguk's eyes.

Jimin enters the stage with a grace that seems straight out of a storybook. His flowy attire dances in the wind from the fans below, and a silent, determined expression seizes his face. He stands beside the kids, taking his place with poise and focus.

The music starts abruptly, a salsa-like rhythm taking over the venue. The small dancers begin twirling in place, quickly forming a circle and joining hands. The show is captivating and adorable, with the audience swaying in their seats, some even standing to capture the moment with better-angled photos of these precious little performers.

Then, the rhythm shifts to something slower. Jimin takes the lead, the kids following him across the stage, each one showcasing their little routine. The audience applauds each of them, their energy contagious. At one point, Jimin lifts a young girl into the air, twirling her around before gently setting her back down, only to spin himself with a joyful laugh, the crowd cheering in delight. Hoseok lifts another child into the air, spinning him around before placing him back down, both of them grinning widely.

The performance comes to an end as they all strike the final pose, their faces lit up with giant smiles. A roar of applause comes after, and Jeongguk leaps to his feet, camera in hand.

Damn, there’s the love of his life right there—smiling at the audience with a little girl clutching his hand in her tiny grip.

The stage empties and lights dim again, curtain closes. 

Yoongi looks down at the program and waves it at the rest of the group. “It’s Hoseok’s performance now.” Jeongguk relaxes a little, knowing that Jimin isn't to take the stage yet.

Hoseok handles his number effortlessly, the crowd cheering with each spin and jump. He grins, basking in the spotlight, the music flowing through him. There’s that characteristic charm that no one misses, impossible to. His charisma lights up the stage, even without the finer details of his choreography.

Mingyu smiles like a lovesick puppy as he records his boyfriend, he’s proud and each part of him shows it.

“He was incredible, man” Jeongguk congratulates him and the boy nods, bashful.

“Jimin’s up next,” Taehyung mumbles, and Jeongguk feels his stomach doing somersaults inside.

Here comes Jimin again onto the stage, his outfit now tighter, all white. A soft violin starts and his body moves effortlessly, every step flowing as if he’s completely lost in the rhythm. The crowd is silent now, mesmerized by his grace and precision.

Jeongguk dares to look around for a moment, not wanting to miss a second of Jimin's routine, and smiles proudly at how his boyfriend has the audience spellbound.

Jimin’s movements are sharp yet fluid, his expression a perfect blend of focus and passion. The music carries him, pushing him to dance with every inch of his body. His feet slide across the floor, feels like he’s floating, not even touching the ground. 

For a moment, it’s just him and the music, a perfect harmony between soul and rhythm. Jimin’s movements tell a story—one of struggle, release, and ultimately, freedom.

The performance marks the end of the showcase and Jimin plummets to the ground, delivering a dramatic finish that moves everyone to jump to their feet, applauding and whistling loudly, with Jeongguk being the first to do so.

“He did it!” Seokjin shouts, tears streaming down his face.

“Like he always does” Jeongguk says, voice thick with emotion. 

"That's your boyfriend right there, bro!" Yoongi slaps Jeongguk’s back proudly, and the rest of the group follows suit, playfully slapping him across his shoulders and arms. "Woooah!" they all cheer, laughter filling the air as Jeongguk grins from ear to ear, feeling on top of the world.

⍣

He finds Jimin backstage, basking in the praise of some of the parents who came to congratulate him, thanking him for preparing their kids for such an amazing showcase. Jeongguk approaches Jimin spots Jeongguk with a shy but excited smile, a bouquet of fresh flowers in one hand and a small, neatly wrapped box in the other.

“You're here!” Jimin exclaims, pulling Jeongguk into a warm embrace. “Thank you for coming,” he mumbles through their kiss. He kisses Jeongguk once, twice, three times — just for good measure and because he can.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Jeongguk replies, his voice full of affection. He hands the bouquet to Jimin, the flowers vibrant and fragrant, then presents the box. “I have something for you.”

Jimin’s curiosity sparks as he carefully unwraps the box. His fingers graze its smooth surface before opening it, revealing a set of keys nestled inside. He looks up at Jeongguk, eyes wide with surprise and a hint of knowing.

Jeongguk takes a deep breath, his voice steady yet trembling. “Jimin, I want you to move in with me. I know it's only been a few months, but you make me so happy. I want us to share everything — including our home. I trust you completely, and I know you'll make it a place where we both feel at home.”

Jimin’s eyes glisten with tears of joy. He clutches the bouquet and the box of keys, his heart swelling with love. “Jeongguk, are you sure? I don’t want to rush things.”

Jeongguk nods, his gaze steady and sincere. “I’m sure. I’m so whipped for you, Jimin. I want you to have as much say as you want in decorating our place — fill it with everything that makes you feel at home. I trust you completely, and I want it to be ours. Your space as much as mine.”

A watery laugh escapes Jimin, his cheeks flushed and eyes sparkling. “I’d love that. I can’t wait to make it feel like home — our home.”

Jeongguk doesn't hesitate; he pulls Jimin into a fierce, grounding kiss, his arms tightening securely around him. The weight of their embrace, the way they cling to each other, speaks louder than any promise could.

As the day winds down, they find themselves walking hand in hand through the empty hallways of the dance venue. They talk about paint colors, furniture ideas, where to hang their favorite photos — painting a vivid picture of the life they’re about to build together.

In the calm of the evening, surrounded by the echo of music and laughter that still lingers in the air, Jeongguk and Jimin share a glance — a silent understanding of the love and trust they share. The future feels bright, full of endless possibilities, and together, they’re ready to face it all.

“Babe, where do these two boxes go?” Jeongguk shouts, his arms straining under their weight as he stands in the middle of the living room, eyes scanning the space.

From upstairs, Jimin’s muffled voice calls back, “Kitchen and study!”

Jeongguk hums in acknowledgment, carefully lowering the boxes to the floor before groaning as he straightens up. He presses his hands to his lower back, stretching out the ache, then takes a moment to look around. A slow smile creeps onto his lips, his head shaking fondly.

“I’m so fucking happy,” he murmurs under his breath.

“Oh, you are?” Jimin’s voice, warm and teasing, drifts down the staircase.

Jeongguk turns to find Jimin descending, his eye smile lighting showing on his face. He opens his arms wide and Jimin understands the assignment, jumping into them, giggling as Jeongguk lifts him off the ground, spinning them both until dizziness wins and Jimin playfully slaps his chest.

“Put me down, you menace,”.

Jeongguk obeys, but not before stealing a sweet, lingering kiss. “I love you,” he whispers against Jimin’s lips.

“Not more than I do,” Jimin counters smoothly, kissing him again,louder this time, just to make a point.

Jeongguk rolls his eyes, setting him down on solid ground. “And there you go again with the competition. Honey, you’re setting yourself up for failure. You can’t beat me. I love you more.”

“Impossible,” Jimin challenges, trying (and failing) to suppress a smug grin. “I’ve been loving you for ages. You can’t compare.”

Jeongguk gasps dramatically, pointing an accusatory finger at him. “That’s playing dirty.”

Jimin only raises his eyebrows, running his tongue along his teeth before folding his arms across his chest. “It’s the truth.”

Jeongguk narrows his eyes. “You may have fallen first, but I fell harder.”

Jimin bursts into laughter, throwing his head back. “Oh my god, you’ve made this a whole mission, haven’t you? Is it that serious?”

“Hell yeah,” Jeongguk deadpans, clearly offended. “Of course it’s serious! We’re talking about my love for you.”

Jimin melts a little but refuses to lose. Instead, he circles his arms around Jeongguk’s waist, peppering soft kisses along his jaw before murmuring, “Okay, Mister Serious. What are we doing for dinner?”

Jeongguk hums, wrapping his arms around him and gazing off in thought. “Tteokbokki?”

“Takeout?”

“Yeah, why not?” He shrugs, pressing another kiss to Jimin’s mouth.

Jimin pulls back with a pout. “Babe, you’re gonna have to man up and start learning how to cook. I refuse to live off takeout forever, just so you know.”

Jeongguk smirks, his gaze turning playful. “Oh, so that’s what this is about?”

Before Jimin can protest, Jeongguk sweeps him off his feet and tosses him onto the couch, launching a merciless tickle attack.

“Stop—! Stop it!” Jimin gasps between uncontrollable fits of laughter, writhing beneath Jeongguk’s relentless fingers.

Eventually, Jeongguk lets up, leaning back to admire him—really admire him. Jimin, breathless, eyes shining, cheeks flushed from laughter. Something in Jeongguk’s chest tightens.

“I’m so fucking happy, Park Jimin,” he breathes, his voice softer now, raw. “You have no idea what you do to me. It’s terrifying.”

Jimin’s breath hitches. “Really?”

Jeongguk nods, his expression impossibly tender. “I’m terrified of this feeling that keeps growing every day, this love I can’t control. It makes me do dumb things. Like—” He pauses, lips quirking up mischievously. “Like wanting to throw myself on the ground whenever you walk into the room just to be your personal runway rug.”

Jimin snorts, his entire body shaking with giggles. “You absolute idiot.”

Jeongguk grins. “Your idiot.”

Jimin exhales, eyes softening as he reaches for Jeongguk’s hand. He laces their fingers together, squeezing gently. “I love you. And I plan to do so for eternity.”

A beat passes, thick with quiet certainty.

“You’re the love of my life, Jeon Jeongguk.”

Jeongguk’s heart does somersaults. He pulls Jimin closer, pressing their foreheads together. “You’re mine, too,” he whispers. “Forever.”

⍣

Jimin stands in the middle of their half-decorated living room, phone in hand, scrolling through Pinterest with furrowed brows. Jeongguk, sitting on the couch, half-watches a YouTube video but can feel Jimin’s expectant stare burning into the side of his face.

“Babe,” Jimin calls, voice suspiciously sweet.

Jeongguk sighs, already sensing where this is going. He tilts his head lazily. “Yeah?”

Jimin strides over, flipping his phone screen toward him. “Which one do you like better? The dark oak shelves or the light wood ones?”

Jeongguk barely glances at the screen before shrugging. “Whichever you like, baby.”

Jimin huffs. “That’s not helping.”

Jeongguk grins, reaching out to tug him onto his lap. “I thought I gave you free reign?”

“Yes, but it’s our home, so I want you to actually care,” Jimin whines, slightly poking Jeongguk’s cheek. “Come on, just pick one.”

Jeongguk pretends to think hard, then points randomly. “That one.”

Jimin glances down, then gasps. “No way. That was my least favorite.”

Jeongguk bursts into laughter. “Then why did you ask me?”

Jimin pouts, crossing his arms. “I wanted to see if we had the same taste.”

Taehyung, who’s been unpacking a box of decor items, chimes in from the corner. “Jimin, just admit you want Jeongguk to suffer through the decision-making process with you.”

Jimin glares at him. “That is not true.”

“It is a little,” Jeongguk teases, pressing a kiss to Jimin’s cheek.

Jimin sighs dramatically. “Fine, fine. But you’re still helping.” He turns back to the phone. “What about bedroom colors? I’m between soft sage or a muted blue.”

“Jimin.”

Jimin gives him his best puppy eyes.

Jeongguk groans louder. “Fine. Show me.”

Taehyung snickers as Jimin shoves the phone in Jeongguk’s hands, triumphant.

⍣

The door to the study creaks open, slow and deliberate. A hand appears first, fingers trailing sensually along the wall, stopping the door just before it hits the surface behind it.

Jeongguk, seated at his desk, doesn’t react immediately. His eyes remain fixed on the computer screen, but the smirk that tugs at his lips gives him away. He knows exactly who it is.

Jimin steps inside, draped in a pearly white robe that just barely clings to his shoulders. The way it parts as he moves leaves little to the imagination. He walks with purpose, each step unhurried, teasing. By the time he reaches Jeongguk, there’s a knowing glint in his eye.

Without a word, he leans down from behind, his hands gliding over Jeongguk’s chest, fingertips tracing patterns through the fabric of his shirt. Jeongguk exhales, eyes slipping shut as he lets his head fall back against Jimin’s shoulder, inviting him in.

Soft lips ghost over his skin, trailing from his jaw down to the curve of his neck, pressing lazy, lingering kisses that make warmth pool in Jeongguk’s stomach.

“Wanna try out the new mattress?” Jimin whispers, his voice velvety smooth. At the same time, he shifts—just enough to make Jeongguk’s breath hitch, his muscles tensing beneath Jimin’s teasing touch.

Jeongguk chuckles, his hands instinctively finding Jimin’s hips. His eyes, dark with anticipation, flicker up to meet Jimin’s. “Hmm, yes, please. We wouldn’t want it to break.”

Jimin grins against his lips before pulling away, fingers curling around Jeongguk’s tie. With a playful tug, he leads him out of the study, their laughter echoing down the hall.

They don’t stop at just the bed. Every corner of their apartment is christened by their rampant love, a testament to the fire between them.

But if you ask Jeongguk, his favorite spot isn’t the bed at all. It’s the thick, fluffy rug in the living room, right in front of the fireplace.

On cold nights, with the fire crackling behind them and their playlist humming low in the background, they melt into each other—whispers and laughter swallowed by the warmth of the moment.

Jimin’s stamina surprises him. Jeongguk can barely keep up.

Not that he’s complaining.

“It- it’s  so good to live together. We can f-fuck as many times as we want, whenever we want” Jimin moans as Jeongguk has him up against the large windows, railing him from behind relentlessly.

⍣

Jimin pushes the door open, exhaling as he steps inside. “Jeongguk? I’m home”

Silence.

His brow furrows. The apartment is never this quiet. He climbs the stairs directly toward their bedroom, a strange unease in his chest.

Then he sees him.

Jeongguk sits on the edge of their bed, head bowed, shoulders stiff, fingers gripping something tight. Jimin’s stomach clenches. “Babe? What’s wrong?”

Jeongguk looks up, and Jimin’s breath catches. His eyes are rimmed red, lips parted like he’s trying to find the right words. And then Jimin looks down, sees the small, leather-bound book in his hands, and the world tilts.

His diary.

“Oh” His voice is barely a whisper. His throat feels tight. “Babe—you—you read it?”

Jeongguk lets out a shaky breath, nods. “I wasn’t looking for it” His voice is rough, like he’s been holding back tears. “I was unpacking the last of the boxes, it was just there, I saw my name and I—I couldn’t stop reading”

Jimin swallows hard, a thousand thoughts rushing through his head. He had tucked that part of himself away, convinced it didn’t matter anymore. “I—I didn’t think it mattered anymore”

Jeongguk lets out a broken laugh, wet and shaky. “Didn’t matter?” His fingers tighten around the book, and then he’s flipping through it, eyes scanning the pages like he’s trying to make sense of it all.

He finds a passage, voice trembling as he reads aloud.

"I miss someone. I miss him so, so much. But I don’t miss him because he’s gone somewhere far away. No. I miss him because I know he will never be mine and I will never be his."

He swallows, looks up at Jimin, pain clear in his gaze. “I was right there. I was right there and you thought I’d never be yours?”

Jimin’s breath stutters. “That’s how it felt”

Jeongguk shakes his head, flipping to another page, voice uneven.

"I love him more than yesterday. Even when yesterday has been probably one of the worst days of my life. Is that even possible? Keep falling relentlessly for someone who ignores your feelings? When it is not you who they love?"

He exhales sharply, looking at Jimin with something raw in his expression. “I ignored your feelings” His voice cracks. You were so sure that I was in love with her ”

Jimin stays still, hands clenching at his sides. “But you didn’t do it on purpose”

Jeongguk looks back down at the pages, flipping again, fingers trembling as he reads.

"Confessions that remain in the dark, sooner or later, burn you alive. Love that goes to waste ends up killing you inside."

He lets out a quiet, broken breath. “Jimin”

Jimin moves before he can think, kneels in front of Jeongguk, reaches for him. “I didn’t know how to tell you” His hands cup Jeongguk’s face, thumbs brushing away the tears slipping down his cheeks. “I didn’t know how to lose you”

The younger keeps reading. "I painted Jeongguk in all colours. An ethereal and delicate creature lying on my canvas. An angel in my small and flowery paradise. But to Jeongguk I’m nothing but scribbles on a piece of paper, all wrinkled and stained."

Jeongguk exhales sharply, lets the diary slip from his hands, and lets Jimin’s warmth engulf him. “You thought you were just scribbles on a page” His voice is barely a whisper now. “But Jimin, you were the whole damn book”

Jimin presses their foreheads together, breathing him in, heart pounding against his ribs. “Tell me now”

And Jeongguk does.

“I love you. I love you, Jimin”

Jimin kisses him, deep and slow, pours everything he never said into it, and Jeongguk kisses him back like he’s making up for every second they lost.

The past may have been filled with longing and missed chances, but from now on, they’ll rewrite their story.

Jimin starts his semester at school after summer break, juggling with his studies and work at the studio. Thanks to Hoseok's understanding boss, his timetable is designed to keep stress at bay, leaving him with free days that he spends with Jeongguk and their friends.

They adopt a baby dog and name him Bam, which in Korean means “night” .  Bam becomes the center of their little world and they treat  him like a baby. Jeongguk takes him for morning jogs before heading to work, while Jimin takes him everywhere he possibly can. On days when their schedules are packed, Taehyung or Jeongguk’s mother steps in to care for Bam. The latter’s sprawling garden becomes Bam’s personal paradise, where he digs tiny holes to bury his toys and chases butterflies with his tiny paws.

Life finds a new, joyful rhythm. Their spacious and luxurious apartment is filled with playful barks, shared glances, and quiet moments of happiness, proof of the family they've built together.

Since they both have pretty tight schedules, finding time to Facetime with Jaebum is a bit of a challenge, but they make it work. The doctor updates them on everything happening there every time they talk.

"How’s Africa treating you, hyung?" Jeongguk asks excitedly. "Wait— is that hair I see on your face?" He squints at the screen, amused.

"Oh, yeah—" Jaebum chuckles, absentmindedly touching his jaw. "I've been told it looks good on me, but I won't let it get hairier than this."

"It looks cool, hyung!" Jimin chimes in. "And? Have you made any friends yet?"

"Y-Yeah— Uh, yes, I did," Jaebum says, smiling a bit bashfully.

"That's great! I'm happy for you!" Jimin beams.

Just as Jeongguk is about to ask something, Jimin notices someone popping up behind Jaebum, moving around the kitchen, seemingly unaware he's on camera. The man is undeniably gorgeous, his strong, tanned arms on display in a tank top.

"Who's that behind you?" Jimin asks, curiosity getting the best of him. Jaebum's smile falters, and his cheeks flush redder than a tomato. He clears his throat nervously.

“Baby, I think you caught him off guard. Maybe he doesn’t want to tell us,” Jeongguk whispers in Jimin’s ear, as Jaebum seemingly battles with himself, trying to find the right words.

“Shh! I know what I’m doing, Koo!” Jimin scolds his boyfriend, and Jeongguk mumbles a small "okay" beneath his breath.

“Oh, uhm—” Jaebum glances to the side, likely exchanging looks with the person who was off-camera a moment ago. “Come on, it’s okay.”

Then, a beautiful man—someone who could easily be cast in dramas or movies—appears on screen, smiling nervously.

“Annyeonghaseyo!” he greets the couple, bowing respectfully, and Jimin can’t hold back a squeal. “I’m Yook Sung-jae.”

“Babe, you good?” Jeongguk asks, unaware of the situation unfolding.

“Never been better,” Jimin mutters to his boyfriend quietly so the others can’t hear him. “Oh, you’re Korean?! What are the odds? I’m Park Jimin, and he’s my boyfriend, Jeon Jeongguk.” He introduces them loudly enough for everyone to hear, grabbing Jeongguk’s hand and waving it at the screen, noticing how shy Jeongguk is, not even moving a finger. “You’re a doctor too, Youngjae-ssi?”

“Yeah, I’m a doctor. We were assigned to the same department”

“More like you asked them to pair us up” Jaebum clarifies and Sung-jae smiles timidly. 

“Well, yeah” he confesses, scratching his nape.

“I’m sensing so many gay vibes here” Jimin whispers, trying to school his features. “And is the relationship working? I mean—” He clears his throat. “As a w-work team?” He gestures, interlacing his fingers to emphasize his point.

“We’re quite good, yeah. Getting there” Jaebum says, giving Sung-jae a knowing look,as if they were talking about something completely different. “Actually, we knew each other from before", Jaebum tells them, fixing his hair to apparently distract himself.

“Elaborate?” Jimin asks with a tight smile looking between the two men, not liking the shortage of details. You can’t do that to Park Jimin. Doesn’t Jaebum know him at all?

“We were high school classmates back in the day”

“Wow, and you reunited there? Out of all places in the world?” Jeongguk gasps. 

“Yup” Sung-jae chuckles. 

“That’s destiny!” Jimin blurts out, not trying to hold himself back anymore. He is seconds away from jumping off the chair. Jeongguk bites down a smile.

“Uhm— yeah, you could say so,” Jaebum says.

“Why do I feel like there’s something you’re not telling me?” Jeongguk elbows his boyfriend softly. “What? He won’t tell me anything? Does he not know me at all?” Jimin whines, crossing his arms and throwing a mini tantrum.

“Actually you’re right, Jimin-ah” Jaebum starts saying. 

“See?” Jimin gives his boyfriend a triumphant smile. “Instincts sharper than a scalpel” he gloats while pointing at himself.

“But I guess you’ll have to wait until the next Facetime call,” Jaebum teases with a wide grin. Jimin’s smile crumbles and shakes his head.

“What? No, no,no,no. You can’t do this to me”

“Byeee” both doctors singsong as they wave their hands. Then the call ends, and they’re left staring at Jimin’s wallpaper— a picture of him and Jeongguk kissing under the moonlight, their smiles frozen in time, a reminder of their love.

Jimin remains frozen on the spot, eyes not wavering. “Baby, let’s go grab some food, yeah?” Jungkook nudges his unmoving boyfriend.

“That little shit” Jimin mutters as soon as he’s out of trance. “Can’t believe he did that to me. Out of all people!”

“You’re overreacting, Jiminah”

“Am I? Am I?!” he fires back, frowning.

“Yeah?” Jeongguk mutters, grimacing. The whole scene gets funnier by the second. Jimin raises his finger, but he lowers it at the last minute, swallowing his words, visibly offended by the stunt both doctors just pulled.

“Look at us not going to their wedding,” he assures, smugly, pursing his lips.

“We won’t?” Jeongguk asks, genuinely concerned at the possible lost chance of free food.

“No, we won’t, ‘cause they’re mean people. And they save lives, uh. The irony!” Jeongguk shakes his head, smiling at his boyfriend.

“Okay, giant baby let’s get some food into our stomachs, shall we?” Jeongguk wraps his arms around him. “Okay?” he asks before kissing him right on the lips and then down his neck. He feels how Jimin’s body relaxes at the touch and evidently melts into the other’s warm body. 

Jimin doesn’t waste a second to kiss him back, temperature rising. What started as an innocent kiss grows into a heated make-out session that leaves them both lightheaded. Jimin pulls back and walks towards their bedroom with a firm grip on Jungkook's wrist.

“Where are you going?”

“To our bedroom so you can fuck the anger out of me”, Jimin announces unbothered, stating the obvious.

“You lead the way, mister” Jeongguk desperately follows him inside their bedroom and shuts the door loudly. What is heard next is Jimin's moans and Jeogguk's grunts that grow louder and louder and a poor Bam looking so confused and disturbed shifts between pacing back and forth and sitting outside his humans' door.

Eighteen months later...

"You think they'll take me in? Maybe they need someone with more experience than me," Jimin pouts as he waits in a studio's entrance hall, Jeongguk engulfing his tiny body from behind, leaving soft kisses on the blond’s neck.

A week ago, Hoseok’s boss called Jimin into his office with a serious expression, making Jimin think he was about to lose his job. What he didn’t expect was that, as soon as he closed the door behind him, he would be met with an unexpected offer—one he could never refuse.

“You know the studio T.W.O?”

Jimin blinked twice, then a third time. “O-Of course, it’s been my dream studio for almost a decade. Why do you ask, sir?”

His boss leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “A friend of mine works there, and he’s been especially interested in your work, Jimin. He asked me for your number and email.”

Jimin’s breath hitched. “My… work?”

The older man nodded. “They want you to send a video of any performance you’d like to showcase.”

Jimin’s lips parted slightly, his heart hammering in his chest. “They… they want me to send a video?” His voice was breathless, barely above a whisper.

His boss chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “Yes, Jimin. They’ve seen you perform, and they’re impressed. My friend—he’s been keeping an eye on you for a while now.”

Jimin swallowed, hands gripping the fabric of his pants. “I—how? I mean, I never auditioned, I never—”

The older man smiled knowingly. “Talent speaks for itself. And you, my boy, have plenty of it. You work hard, you’ve grown so much since you first stepped into this studio. It’s only natural that people would notice.”

Jimin’s head was spinning. He had spent years dreaming about T.W.O, about the dancers there, about what it would feel like to even set foot in that studio. And now…

“They’re really giving me a chance?” he murmured, almost to himself.

His boss nodded. “They are. But it’s up to you now. If you’re interested, send them a video. Show them who you are, what you can do.”

Jimin exhaled shakily, pressing his hands together to stop them from trembling. “I—of course I’m interested, sir. I just… I don’t even know what to say.”

The man grinned. “Say ‘thank you’ and get to work, Jimin. This is your moment.”

Jimin’s eyes stung slightly, emotion bubbling in his chest. He stood, bowing deeply. “Thank you, sir. Really, I—thank you.”

His boss waved him off with a smile. “Don’t thank me yet. Go show them what you’re made of.”

And with that, Jimin left the office, his heart racing, his mind already thinking of what piece he would dance for his dream studio.

“Don’t demean yourself, baby. You’re a great dancer, the most talented one I’ve ever seen. And now you’re at uni, finally making yours and your appa’s dream come true. I’m sure they’ll take you in. Plus, they’re the ones who reached out to you so,” Jeongguk murmurs, rubbing his nose along Jimin’s exposed shoulder.

The blond relishes the warmth of his boyfriend, a smile tugging at his lips as he turns in Jeongguk’s hold. The taller boy looks at him with hooded eyes, and Jimin curls his hands around his neck, pulling him in for a bruising kiss.

“I just don’t know how they got my resume. I didn’t even send them one.”

Jeongguk shrugs.

He never, in his wildest dreams, thought the studio would call him, knowing how many talented people had applied and been rejected.

Jimin twists his lips and clicks his tongue.

“Yes, but it’s weird… I don’t know. Anyway, I’m here already, and that’s all that matters. Maybe it was destiny, who knows?” Jimin says, excitement lacing his voice.

“Exactly, honey,” Jeongguk smiles at him. “I love you,” he whispers as soon as Jimin pulls away.

“I love you more,” Jimin retorts with a cute frown.

“Mmm, I wouldn’t be so sure, Tiny,” Jeongguk smirks.

“And why’s that?” Jimin quirks a brow teasingly.

Jeongguk sighs, tilting his head back to look at the ceiling as he takes a deep breath, then brings his gaze back to Jimin.

“Because nobody will ever love you as much as I do, baby. I’m afraid you don’t have the slightest idea of just how deep I am for you, Jimin,” he says softly.

Jimin hums, a small smile curling at his lips as he plays with the tiny hairs on Jeongguk’s nape. Then, he leans in for a kiss, Jeongguk meeting him halfway, their lips moving slowly, unhurriedly, as if savoring every second.

Taking their time, breathing each other in, tasting the faint sweetness of shared toothpaste—see, that’s one of the perks.

"What a show we're giving them, huh?" Jeongguk says against the mouth of a now blond Jimin, and they burst out in a fit of giggles.

Jimin detaches from his boyfriend and takes a look around.

"Don't worry, babe, I don't think this PDA would be much of a problem here," Jimin assures with a knowing look.

"And why are you so sure?"

"Did you know that the owners of this studio are a couple?"

Jeongguk looks at him with an unfazed expression, waiting for the exciting part to come.

"Good for them. Why the emphasis on a ?" Jungkook asks, still unfazed.

"They're both men," Jimin clarifies.

The younger mouths a tiny "oh" and snorts a giggle.

"That's something."

Jimin chuckles, wrapping his tiny arms around Jeongguk's puffed torso and resting his cheek on the boy's chest. The taller's arms automatically sneak around Jimin's waist, pulling him closer. Jeongguk’s big hand slips under Jimin's sweater, his long fingers grazing over his milky skin.

"That's what made me go for this one—because nasty behavior won't be an option here. And I've dealt with that shit for too long in my life. It's over," he adds, a sharp exhale following.

"I know, baby," Jeongguk kisses the crown of Jimin's head. "There's not a single day that goes by where I don't think about what you had to endure in high school. That asshole Minho and what he did to you. I swear I should’ve broken his nose for good, and maybe then—"

Jimin brings his finger to Jeongguk’s lips.

"That belongs to the past already, and we're in the now. Together and in love. He can't hurt us anymore, baby. Hmm?" Jimin assures as he rubs his nose against his boyfriend’s.

Jeongguk nods with a bunny smile and seeks Jimin's lips one more time.

"You're so mature about these things, love. This is one of the reasons why I love you."

"I hope the list is long though," Jimin teases with a toothy grin. The younger scoffs.

"It's the longest, and I still haven't finished writing it."

"Silly," he whispers, leaving a peck on the corner of Jeongguk’s mouth before finally pulling away.

"Park Jimin?" The couple turn their heads to the feminine voice that leads them to a slender and attractive woman in a dress suit, holding a folder while trying to spot the applicant in the crowd.

“Here,” the blond replies, waving his hand. The young woman observes him, lowers her glasses, and instantly gives him a knowing smile.

Jimin and Jeongguk shrug their shoulders at the rare interaction, and then the blond pulls the younger closer by the nape, and they kiss in goodbye, even though they’ll see each other in a couple of minutes. It’s meant to be a short interview—maybe show the company some moves—but he’ll be inside for no more than twenty minutes.

Rumor has it that both owners are quite picky with their trainers, so Jimin is sure he won’t be held too long.

“Baby, you sure you wanna wait?” Jimin asks him. Jeongguk scoffs in disbelief.

“What kind of question is that? Of course I’ll wait for you! Even if it takes you five hours in there, I’m not gonna move from here,” he replies with a firm voice, folding his arms. Jimin tugs his bottom lip, biting down a sweet smile and shakes his head.

“Silly,” he mumbles, rolling his eyes. The blond sends him a flying kiss and hurries to catch up with the secretary who’s made her way into the studio. But before he can turn around, Jeongguk yanks him by the arm and crashes Jimin’s small body against his big one.

“Hey,” he smiles at his boyfriend, his bunny teeth in full display. “You’re gonna rock it, baby. I love you so much. You know that, right?” the younger asks him, cupping the blond’s face with both hands as he rubs his thumbs over the apples of his cheeks.

“I know. And I love you. So much, you have no idea. I’ve loved you for the longest time, and I won’t stop,” he confesses, grabbing Jeongguk’s hands tightly. They kiss a couple of times more. One, two, three, four kisses—just because Jeongguk can. Just because Jimin is his and he is Jimin’s.

“I love you. I love you. I love you,” they say in unison, between soft kisses.

“Okay, now I have to go,” the blond tries to pull away, but Jeongguk grunts, holding him in place. The hands that once were on his chubby cheeks are now resting on the older’s hips.

“I will miss you,” Jeongguk whispers, and Jimin snorts a short laugh.

“Jeongguk, I’m not leaving the country. I’ll be done in half an hour, tops.” Jeongguk shakes his head, pouting.

“I don’t care. I’ll miss you just the same. I can’t be without you, not even for a minute. You’re not gone yet, and I already feel like I’m gasping for air,” he teases, massaging Jimin’s hips with his large hands.

“You’re so extra. You didn’t change one bit, Kookie.”

“You make me like this. I’m a goner for you, Park Jimin, king of mochis,” he replies with a smirk. Jimin rolls his eyes and swats his shoulder jokingly. Jeongguk pulls him closer for one last kiss (now for real), and Jimin finally takes his leave.

“Park?” the woman calls him again, and Jimin grimaces.

“Yes, sorry,” he apologizes, bowing and speed-walking towards her.

“This way, please. Mr. Lee is already in his office waiting for you,” she signals, turning on her heels and heading back inside.

“PARK JIMIN!” Jeongguk yells at him, making Jimin turn around with blushing cheeks and eyes wide as saucers, checking the people watching the entire exchange. “I LOVE YOU!”

“Jeongguk!” he whisper-yells, redder than a tomato. The younger feigns innocence, raising his hands in defense, not seeing the wrong in what he just did—declaring his love for Jimin in a room with lots of people watching.

“I CAN’T HEAR YOU SAYING IT BACK!” he yells again, knowing that he’s making Jimin painfully self-conscious. He smiles awkwardly at the people inspecting him with amused expressions.

“I love you too,” Jimin says in a lower tone, his face still flushed. The younger smiles widely at him and sends him a flying kiss back. Jimin winks at him and disappears further down the hallway, following behind the young secretary.

“Ah, to be young and in love,” mumbles an old man who’s casually sitting on the couch reading a magazine. Jeongguk whips his head to him and bows deeply.

“Very much, Sir. And more every day,” he confesses with a sigh, looking in the direction Jimin left.

“I can see that, young boy. And it’s two-sided. It’s obvious that he is in love with you too. Too much, I’d say.”

“I don’t think it’s more than how much I love him, Sir. He’s my childhood best friend and the love of my life. It kills me to know that I wasted so much time looking for something I had with me all along,” he says with a sad smile, hanging his head.

“Let me tell you something, kid. These white hairs you see here are not just for decor, you know?” he says, pointing to his head. “If there’s something these seventy-five years of life taught me, it’s that true love is never too late. You might have drifted away at some point, but believe me, you found each other when you had to. Not a minute earlier, not a minute later. Just the perfect timing.”

Jeongguk looks at him with his mouth agape and nods eagerly.

“He's my person. I can’t imagine a life without him,” he says with a low voice, swallowing harshly.

“Then don’t. Hold onto him, kid. Don’t let him go,” he says, patting the younger’s arm.

⍣

Jimin follows the woman as he inspects his surroundings, mouth agape at the luxury of the building. The rehearsal rooms are everything Jimin has ever dreamed of—and more. They’re obnoxiously spacious and white, with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and sophisticated music equipment. He can’t believe he’s there, one step away from fulfilling both his appa’s wishes and his own.

“Okay, it’s over here. Walk straight towards that wooden door on the left at the end of the hallway and get in. Mr. Lee knows you’re next,” she instructs him before leaving Jimin in the middle of the hallway, shyly gripping the strap of his bag with one hand like a lost kid at the mall.

He nods, bowing to her a little too late since she’s already out of sight, and takes long, slow steps towards his employer’s office.

Jimin takes a deep breath and exhales heavily, shaking his hands and head to relax himself. On the other side of the door is the opportunity of his lifetime. He can’t take it lightly. What if he messes up? What if he forgets the choreography he prepared? What if his pen drive doesn’t work and he can’t play the song? Oh no.

He tries to chase those thoughts out of his mind and knocks twice softly, waiting for a response.

“Yes. Come in, please,” a male voice, young, Jimin presumes, calls him from inside.
The older complies and turns the doorknob with a trembling hand, walking into the office.

Just as Jimin closes the door with a soft click and turns around, he gasps loudly and stumbles back, bringing a hand over his mouth.

“Hello, Jimin. Long time no see,” the young man, part of Jimin’s long-lost past, greets him with a shy tug of the lips.

“No, no, no,” Jimin mumbles underneath his breath, shaking his head, expecting all of this to be just a bad dream that he’ll soon wake up from.

Before his eyes, sitting behind his desk dressed in a sweatshirt and tight pants, is none other than his high school bully—a.k.a, secret admirer.

Minho.

“So, Park, have this as a warning. Don’t you ever dare to come near me, you fucking piece of shit! Your slutty ass better stay away from me or anyone on the team. Otherwise, things won’t end up nicely for you, get it?”

“Jimin, please, let me—”

“No, you’re not real. No,” he repeats with a shaky voice as he shakes his head like a madman, his resume trembling in his hand. “You’re just a figment of my worst dreams. This must be some sort of hidden camera, an evil joke. You can’t be real. NO”

“Hey, Jimin, please calm down, let’s talk and— Please, you’re gonna hyperventilate.” Minho tries to approach him, but Jimin flinches.

“Well, would that take me out of here? If yes, then bring it on,” he replies with a scornful tone, still breathing heavily.

“Jimin, please. Give us a chance to explain everything,” another male voice chimes in from the office, which Jimin rapidly recognizes too. He snaps his head almost painfully toward the source of that voice.

“Sehun? Wh-what are you both doing here? What’s all this? Is this another one of your pranks where I end up a sobbing mess, scared to death, locked up in a room? I—I’m— I’m out,” the blond haired man stammers, his heart in his throat. He skims the wooden surface for the doorknob behind him.

Minho gets to his feet and strides over to Jimin with an apologetic glance.

“Don’t come any closer or I’ll scream!” the older man threatens, pointing a finger at him.

“Jimin, you don’t understand—”

"HELP, HELP, SOMEONE PLEASE CALL SECUR—"

“Park Jimin!” Minho raises his voice, seeing that there is no other way to catch Jimin’s attention. With that, he shuts his mouth but glares at him.

“It was me who asked for you specifically, Jimin. I want you to work here with us. We want to hire you,” Minho says, signaling between Sehun and himself, the latter looking at the scene as though he had just been doused with a bucket of ice water.

“W-what?” Jimin mumbles, tilting his head. “But there must be a mistake here. I’ve been told that I would be interviewed by the owners.”

Both men nod in unison. “Yes, you are,” Sehun replies with a smile while looking at Minho and then back at Jimin.

Jimin giggles nervously, the smile turning into a frown in record time. “No, no. They told me the owners are a couple. I mean, they’re both men, they’re ga—”

“Gay? Yes, very much. That's us, Jimin. We’re the couple,” Minho confirms with an amused grin, Sehun joining him and pulling the man closer by the waist.

“We're a very gay couple of dancers, Jimin-ssi,” Sehun adds, looking at Minho lovingly.

Jimin blinks several times, averting his gaze to the picture on the wall of the two boys on their wedding day on the beach at sunset, proudly showing the rings on their fingers.

“Uhm, I— How— I mean—” Jimin stammers after a prolonged and uncomfortable silence.

“Too much to digest?” Minho asks with a chuckle, to which Jimin nods faintly.

Minho gestures toward the chair in front of the desk, his expression softening. "Look, Jimin, I know this is a lot to take in, but there's something I need to tell you. Something important."

Minho leans forward, his gaze focused on Jimin as he speaks. "I didn’t just ask for you to work here because of your talent. I asked for you because, well... because I’ve known you for a long time."

Jimin raises an eyebrow, his confusion evident. "What do you mean? I haven’t seen you in—what—ten years? What could you possibly know about me?"

Minho looks down for a moment, as if gathering his thoughts. When he looks up again, there’s a vulnerability in his eyes. "I used to watch you back in high school, Jimin. You... you never knew, but I had a huge crush on you. I think I always did, even when I was making your life hell."

Jimin stares at him, eyes wide as saucers. "What?"

Minho’s voice falters as he continues, "I know, it sounds crazy now. But back then, I didn’t know how to deal with it. I was scared. Scared of my dad, scared of my friends, and most of all, scared of being who I really was. I—"

Sehun interrupts softly, his tone reassuring. "Minho’s telling you the truth, Jimin. It’s all in the past now, and we’ve both moved on. He’s been open about who he is for a while now."

Jimin runs his fingers through his hair, trying to absorb it all. "But why the poems, Minho? Why make me think you hated me?"

Minho’s eyes drop again, and he sighs deeply. "I was an idiot. I wrote those poems because I didn’t know how to say it to your face. I didn’t know how to tell you that I was in love with you. I thought... if I kept pretending I hated you, it would somehow protect me from feeling weak. From feeling like I was... different."

Jimin sits back in his chair, his mouth slightly agape. "You were in love with me?"

Minho nods, his gaze steady. "I’m not sure if it was love but it was a huge crush, like, it would keep me up at night, that kind of crush”. 

Jimin gulps and diverts his gaze to Sehun, uncomfortable. The man straightens up with a smile, “Don’t worry Jimin, it’s fine. I’m not uncomfortable. A lot of water has passed under the bridge ” he smiles and dismisses the possible uneasiness with a hand.

Minho smiles lovingly at him and caresses his husband's arm.

“I’m very much in love with my husband as you can see” he kisses Sehun in the mouth. “You were my gay awakening, Jimin” he confesses, smiling. “I was too scared to do anything about it. And now, looking back, I see how messed up everything was. I don’t want to be that person anymore. I just want to be honest with you now."

Jimin stares at him, his mind racing. "But all those years… I thought you were just making fun of me. I hated you. You... you ruined my life for a while, you know?"

"I know," Minho admits quietly. "I’m sorry, Jimin. I can’t change what happened, but I’m here now. I want to make it right. I want you to know the truth."

Jimin’s voice cracks as he finally responds, "This... this is all so messed up."

Sehun smiles gently, offering a hand to Jimin. "I know it’s a lot to take in. But we’re not here to hurt you, Jimin. We just want you to know that we’re different now. We’re not the people we were in high school."

Minho nods, his eyes filled with regret. "I’m not asking for forgiveness, Jimin. I just wanted you to know that I’ve always cared about you. And if this job means anything to you, it’s yours."

Jimin looks at both of them, his mind still racing, but there’s a part of him that wants to believe them. He nods slowly, his voice barely above a whisper. "I… I need some time to think."

Minho stands up and walks over to him, offering a hand. "Take all the time you need, Jimin. Just know that we’re here for you."

Jimin looks at the outstretched hand, then at the photo of Minho and Sehun on their wedding day, a strange sense of calm settling over him. "I’ll think about it. I just... need some time."

⍣

As Minho, Sehun and Jimin approach the entrance hall, Jeongguk immediately spots the familiar face of Jimin’s former bully standing by Jimin’s side. His eyes widen, and a muscle in his jaw tightens. He doesn’t wait for anyone else to say anything; his voice is sharp and filled with a bit of disbelief.

“Wait a minute…” Jeongguk starts, his gaze flickering from Minho to Jimin to Sehun, then back to Minho. “You’ve got to be kidding me. This guy?” He gestures toward Minho with a flick of his chin, still incredulous. “The guy who made your life hell in high school?”

Jimin winces slightly, his lips pressing into a thin line. He places a hand on Jeongguk’s arm, his touch gentle but firm.

“Jeongguk, it’s not like that anymore,” Jimin says softly, his voice cautious. “He’s changed. Please, just give him a chance."

Jeongguk scoffs, his arms crossed tightly over his chest. “A chance? After everything he put you through? I don’t know, Jimin... It’s hard to just forget that.”

Minho, sensing the tension, takes a deep breath and turns to Jeongguk. “Look, I know I’m the last person you want to see right now,” he starts, his voice sincere but firm. “But I’m not that person anymore. I’ve changed. I’m not the same guy who tormented Jimin in high school. That was… a long time ago.”

Jeongguk narrows his eyes, still not convinced. “And you expect me to just trust that? Just like that?”

Minho sighs, running a hand through his hair. “I don’t expect you to forget, Jeongguk. But I do hope you can see that I’m not the same person who hurt Jimin. I just want to move forward... I want to make things right, for him and for you.”

“Jeongguk, he may be my potential boss. Both of them” Jimin says. Jeongguk looks pensive and then it hits. He gasps with eyes wide “Wait, you own this place?” he asks Minho, and then he drifts his gaze to Sehun “And you?”.

Both men nod, amused. 

“But Jimin told me the owners were a couple but that’s not possible because it would mean you two are — Oh” he stops his rambling.

”Yeah, oh” Minho adds, snorting a laugh.

”Well that — that’s what you call character development” Jeongguk lets out a puff of air, gazing at Jimin then at them again with a ‘you see this Jimin?’ kind of look.

“See why we are not the enemy anymore? We’re on you guys side now” Sehun assures.

Jeongguk holds his gaze for a long moment, clearly battling his emotions. Finally, he huffs out a breath, dropping his arms from his chest. “I’m not making any promises, but if you hurt him again, I swear, I won’t hesitate to break your face. Again.”

Jimin lets out a relieved sigh, grateful for Jeongguk’s willingness to listen, even if it’s just a little. “Thank you, Jeongguk.”

Minho nods, giving Jeongguk a solemn look. “You have my word, Jeongguk. I won’t hurt him again. Not now, not ever.”

Jimin and Jeongguk are strolling down the streets, shopping for some things for their apartment, giggling and kissing every now and then as they pass by the window shops. They stop in front of a shop.

“Oh, here it is!” Jungkook comments, looking inside the place through the big doors.

“What is it, love?”

“This is the shop hyung told me about. They sell pretty utensils here, very unique. Wanna come in and check what they’ve got?”

“Can I get a raincheck? I’ve toured so many shops today I think I’m seeing double. You go, I’ll wait here on the bench”

“But you’re the one with the good taste here” Jeongguk pouts.

“Anything you choose will be okay. I trust you” he assures. Jungkook finally accepts and gives him a shot peck on the lips before heading in.

Jimin entertains himself for a couple of minutes watching people walk down the streets, buying presents or walking their dogs.

“Oh! Look who it is!” a woman shouts, startling a calm Jimin in the process. He turns his head confused and it turns out it is the lady that got proposed at the restaurant almost four years ago with a blinding smile on her face, now married and very much— pregnant!

“Hey” Jimin greets her, smiling too, then his eyes automatically travel down her baby bump which it’s quite big. 

“Yeah, we have a little one on the way” the woman says while his hand caresses his protruded belly. His husband comes out of the same shop just in time with Jeongguk alongside him, chatting animatedly.

“Babe! He helped me choose the plates! They’re beautiful!” Jeongguk beams and the man nods with a smile.

“Told you. These are of the best porcelain and very durables” the young man affirms.

“Perfect!” Jungkook squeals, while readjusting the box in his hands, happy with his purchase.

“Honey! Come here!” the woman in front of Jimin demands, excitedly. “This is the boy from the restaurant back when you proposed to me, remember? The one who took the picture we have hanging in the living room wall”. Her husband takes a double look and nods, recognizing Jimin instantly.

“Oh yes, I remember you! Thanks for that picture by the way”. Jeongguk furrows his brows and cocks his head in confusion. 

“And YOU were there too! You’re the other guy!” She gasps. “What a coincidence we’re all here!”

“Sorry, do I know you?” Jungkook asks politely, really lost. Jimin giggles behind his hand.

“Wait, wait, WAIT!” the woman’s high pitched and energetic voice bounces through the air again, hands spread dramatically. 

“You just called him baby ,” she starts pointing at Jeongguk then at Jimin.

“Yes?” Jeongguk replies, still puzzled at the whole ordeal. “He’s my boyfriend”.

The woman screams and starts squealing, smacking her husband's arm. The two boys flinch in synchronization and look at each other. “See! I told you these two would end up together, and you were like ‘nah, they look like they’re good friends” she mocks her husband’s words.

Jimin laughs at the cute exchange between the couple and then looks at Jeongguk who’s trying to wrap his head around what’s happening.

“Remember the lady who asked me for a pic at the restaurant when you told me about… Chaewon? It’s her”

Jeongguk lets out an “oh” sound in realization and nods. “Yes I remember, you were the one who got proposed then too?”

“In the flesh! We’ve been married for three summers now. We tied the knot that same year! We just couldn’t wait” she says before wrapping her arm around her husband’s, happily.

“And you’re also having a baby. That’s so cool” Jeongguk comments with a smile. 

“Oh no, the baby’s not his” the woman replies. Jeongguk feels his spit get stuck in his throat.

“O-Oh I’m so sorry— Please, I apologize—”

The couple burst out laughing and shaking their heads. “Please, it’s a joke! Oh you guys are so easy to mess with! Of course it’s his baby. It’s ours. He won't get away from this that easily!" The woman reassures him and Jeongguk feels the air getting into his lungs again, and gives them a weirded-out look.

They’re the pranksters kind.

“Oh, by the way! What are your names?” Jimin perks up. “I’m Park Jimin and he’s Jeon Jeongguk”

“I’m Lee Ji-eun and he’s Lee Min-hyuk, nice to meet you, formally. Oh, and we won't get away from here without you guys' numbers, we need to meet up some other time!”. 

Jimin nods smiling and all of them pass each of their phone numbers.

“You know”, Lee Ji-Eun stars, "I just knew it would happen someday, you know? I won't ever forget the way he was looking at you that night" Ji-eun jerks her head towards Jeongguk.

"Like what?" Jimin finds himself asking.

“Like you were the only person in the room, like anybody else mattered. Only you. I remember telling my husband back then 'that's the face of someone in love'. And look at you now, dating that someone”

Jimin smiles at her and then turns to Jeongguk who’s trying to figure out what she’s talking about. To take his boyfriend out of that miserable state, he decides to tell him the full story.

“When she asked me to take a couple picture of them, she offered to take one of us in return, assuming we were, you know, a couple too”. Jeongguk looks at the woman and then at Jimin, a small smile forming on his lips.

“But then I told her that no, we were best friends. I don’t know how but she quickly picked up that I was in love with you and you weren’t”

“I already was head over heels for you” Jeongguk confirms, squeezing Jimin’s hand. “I just had to get my head out of my ass—“ he rapidly recoils, ashamed and then turns to the married couple. “Oh, sorry” and bows to them.

Ji-eun and Minhyuk smile widely. “It’s okay. I say worse things” the man assures, dismissing the matter.

“Alright,” Jeongguk smiles. 

“I’m so happy for you both” Ji-eun says, then takes a look at her watch. “Oh, damn, honey! It’s late! We won’t make it to the vet! Let’s go”.

“You have to go so quickly? I thought we could have some coffee but if you guys are in a hurry that's fine” Jimin asks.

“Oh we would love to! Believe me, with all these cravings I’m getting in this pregnancy I would kill for pastries or cakes or milkshakes” she laughs. “But the thing is that our dog has a stomach ache for something he ate and I booked an appointment for eleven o’clock which is in twenty minutes. See you around, lovebirds! I'll text you tonight about my upcoming baby shower. I want you both there!” she says as she starts walking away.

“Of course! We will be enchanted to be there! Good luck with your dog and with the baby!”

“It’s a girl! She’s due on June 13th!” Ji-Eun announces from afar, yelling while dragging her husband with her, both speed walking towards their car. 

“They’re quite a pair, uh” Jeongguk comments, amused. 

Jimin hums, agreeing. “But they look so happy. They’d be the kind of couple to grow old and still prank each other and make people laugh. Wish that for us, you know?” 

Jeongguk yanks him by the arm and wraps his arms around him, taking advantage of the lack of onlookers passing them by. “We will have that and more because I don’t know if you knew but, Park Jimin, I plan to love you all my life”

“Well, it's fair. I loved you a lifetime and can’t wait to love you a couple more”. Jeongguk smiles brightly and kisses him fervently yet slowly, savoring each second they spend like this, immersed in each other’s warmth. Jeongguk is the first one to pull away to make a comment.

“Although, I’m jealous of her” he pouts, while looking at the direction the couple ran off to.

“Why?” Jimin asks with a frown.

“Because back then she knew everything, that you loved me and that I loved you. Why was I always the last one to know? I feel stupid”

Jimin pouts and cups Jeongguk’s cheeks. “Listen, I don’t want you to think about that anymore. Everything turned out good in the end. It was your own journey, your own process and you went through it as you had to. We were meant to be anyway, don't you think so?” Jimin says, smiling stupidly at the last sentence. Jeongguk mirrors him.

“You’re right. But I would’ve loved to get the memo earlier. You know? Go through the process a year back or two before it happened?” he half asks, scratching his neck. Jimin rolls his eyes and shakes his head to then leave a short peck on his lips.

“You’re insufferable”

“But I’m your insufferable” Jeongguk smirks.

“And it’s forever so… I got myself in a hell of a ride, didn’t I”