You are happy without me

Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/35031754.

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply
Category: M/M
Fandom: | Bangtan Boys | BTS
Relationship: Jeon Jungkook/Kim Taehyung | V
Character: Bangtan Boys | BTS Ensemble, Bam (BTS), Yeontan (BTS), Other K-
pop Artist(s)
Additional Tags: Alternate Universe, Orphanage, Childhood Sweethearts, Childhood
Friends, Family Issues, Angst and Drama, Sad and Sweet, Protective
Jeon Jungkook, Misunderstandings, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Jeon
Jungkook is Bad at Feelings, Adorable Kim Taehyung | V, Flashbacks,
Slow Build, Kim Taehyung | V & Park Jimin are Best Friends, Attempt
at Humor, Mild Language, Eventual Romance, Eventual Fluff
Stats: Published: 2021-11-16 Updated: 2022-01-17 Chapters: 13/? Words:
37364

You are happy without me

by meanie_nim

Summary

Jungkook met Taehyung at the orphanage when he was 5. They became best friends
instantly, sticking to each other like glue. Their goal was to stay together, not to get
separated.

But life has different plans.

Notes
See the end of the work for notes
 Chapter 1
Chapter Summary

This is a fic! I have no idea about the actual daily life in an orphanage.

Jungkook is older than Taehyung, but just by 2 months.

Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Jungkook, 5 years old

Brown big eyes with long lashes locked with his. The little boy had dark curls that framed a round
face. An open jam jar was in his lap, which he was holding tightly with smeared hands. He was
sitting on the kitchen floor, looking up.

Were those tear stains on his cheek?

The tall woman with red glasses, whose name Jungkook had already forgotten, crossed her arms in
front of her chest with a huff. "Well, this is Kim Taehyung," she introduced the boy, her voice so
sharp that it chilled Jungkook.

How could someone like her work with children?

"Taehyung is your age, so you could become friends for the time you two are staying here. Or not.
It is up to you," the woman added, her strict eyes boring into the boy. "So, I see you are hungry
now, Taehyung. What did I tell you about sneaking into the kitchen during meals?" she asked but
didn't seem to expect a response.

Jungkook felt intimidated because of that woman's cold demeanor but the boy seemed not to be
scared of her. He wiped his cheek and carefully put the jar down before standing up. He was
slightly shorter than Jungkook, his shirt was buttoned wrong, his knees dirty. And although this
boy was a stranger to him, Jungkook instantly felt the need to protect him in this devastated world.

"What is it? Are you suddenly not able to speak?" The woman sighed, adjusting her glasses on the
bridge of her nose, her patience probably already running low. "You know what, Taehyung?
Whatever. I have no time to scold you for the hundredth time this week. We will talk later." She
turned her eyes back on Jungkook, obviously forcing out a smile. "You should get to know each
other. You will stay in his room after all. We will have dinner at six. See you both there, don't be
late." She threw another glare at the boy before turning on her heels, quickly exiting the kitchen,
the tapping of her high heels sounding loud and vicious.

Jungkook stared at the door where she had disappeared, not feeling welcomed at this cold place.

Shouldn't people at the orphanage be friendly and warm?

Jungkook heard a rustling and turned his eyes back on the boy who was sitting on the floor once
again, grabbing for the jar, acting as if nothing had happened in the past few minutes. Jungkook
was shy, but he was curious, too. But instead of asking why that boy wasn't listening to that scary
woman, he crouched down in front of him with an uneasy smile. "Hi. I am Jungkook. I am 5. How
old are you?"

The boy who was busy opening the jam jar, looked up at him with big eyes blinking, tilting his
head. He seemed to study Jungkook quizzically, either trying to make sense of his words or trying
to weigh whether or not to trust him. "I am 5, too," he replied softly after a beat of silence,
speaking for the first time. "I am Tete. Can I call you Kookie?"

Jungkook was surprised by his straightforwardness, his eyes turning on Taehyung's smeared
fingers and then back at his face. "Yes."

Taehyung nodded, handing the jar to him. "Do you want some jam? It is pretty yummy."

"No, thank you. I don't like sweets."

Taehyung opened his mouth in shock, confusion prominent in his features. "You don't like what?
You are weird."

Jungkook straightened up with a pout, looking away. "I am not weird," he mumbled defensively.
His eyes fell on the door and he sighed. He had no idea where his room was or where he was
supposed to go.

Jungkook had arrived at the orphanage one hour ago. His uncle who was a pilot and always away,
dropped him off after telling him a few days ago that he wasn't capable to take care of him any
longer. Jungkook's parents had died at a car accident two years ago and his uncle was the only
family he had left. Jungkook was still shaken about everything that had happened and being here,
not knowing anyone, was not helping to make him feel better. He was sad. But Jungkook would not
start crying. He had been taught that crying wouldn't solve anything.

"Let's go."

"W-what?" Jungkook turned around, staring at the boy who had pulled him out of his thoughts.

Taehyung was standing in front of him, reaching out his hand. "You will sleep in our room. I will
show you your place and then we can play- if you want to."

Jungkook was surprised byTaehyung's friendly offer. But the boy's boxy smile and his shining eyes,
looking at him happily, surprised him even more. "You-you want to hang around with me?"

Taehyung frowned for a second, then smiled again and said, "Why not? We are both 5. All the
other kids are older. We should be best friends- as long as you don't make me hate sweets, too."

Jungkook had not laughed in a while but Taehyung's words caused him to chuckle. He accepted the
boy's warm, sticky hand, surprisingly not even feeling disgusted about it. "Okay."

‿ ‿

Jungkook, 8 years old

Three years were gone since Jungkook had been brought to the orphanage. He was almost 9 years
old and his shyness had vanished by now. He had developed some confidence, got cheeky, and
started to talk back, testing the patience of the employees at the orphanage. From time to time
several parents would meet him, wishing to get to know him better, probably even intending to
adopt him- always falling for his big doe eyes.

Jungkook didn't want to leave the orphanage though. It wasn't like he loved staying in that cold
place but he liked the boy who was with him in there. Taehyung. He didn't want to leave him. And
the other had promised not to leave him either. They had become best friends and had made a pact
to stay together until someone would adopt them both- though that would never happen. But they
were young and naive.

"Are you sure that we should prank them and fight with each other in front of their salad? I mean,
that family seemed pretty nice for a change," Taehyung mumbled. They were laying on his bed,
shoulders and elbows touching as they were staring up the ceiling.

It was bedtime and the other two kids in their room were already sleeping. But Taehyung and
Jungkook loved talking about everything and nothing before going to bed. They were each other's
safe place and that fact made staying in the loveless orphanage much easier.

"So? It is not like we are hurting them or something like that. Our fight needs to come off as nasty
as we can manage it." Jungkook made a pause, sighing. "I just don't want them to take me away
from here. From you," he added softly, the thought alone was scaring him a lot.

"Aww, Kookie. No one is going to take you away from me, don't worry," Taehyung said in a
teasing manner, elbowing him lightly. "I was just thinking maybe- I don't know. It is just that they
don't deserve to watch us acting like some troublemakers, throwing insults at each other and fight
like idiots. They have a baby."

"But that is the only way they would lose interest in me. I am sure of that. The baby won't
understand anything by the way. Don't worry," Jungkook tried to reassure his friend, knowing how
much the other adored little children.

Taehyung hummed before snuggling his head on Jungkook's chest, hair tickling his chin. "Don't
you think Mrs. Vi will kick us out of the orphanage because of our pranks?"

"I don't know, Tete. Maybe she will kick us out sooner or later. But that is fine as long as we stay
together. Right?"
"Yeah."

Jungkook turned his head, nosing his best friend's hair. It smelled of baby shampoo- like always.
They had gotten very close over the past two years, being inseparable. Jungkook had never been
interested in making friends with the other orphans. Taehyung was enough for him. Taehyung was
his family and after everything Jungkook had to endure in the first years of his life, he was very
happy to have the other close.

"I am tired, Kookie."

"Okay, I am going back to my bed, then."

Taehyung clutched Jungkook's arm when he started moving, holding him in place. "No. Stay with
me," he whined.

Jungkook sighed softly. His best friend always acted clingy whenever he was getting tired. He had
already learned that about him in the first weeks of knowing him. But Jungkook liked this side of
his friend -though he would never admit it. "You know that we are not allowed to sleep in the same
bed, Tete. She will come to check on us in a bit and I am not in the mood to get scolded again."

"I know. Me neither," Taehyung mumbled, his voice betraying how sad he felt. "I just love to
cuddle you and your baby fat."

"Yah, I don't have any baby fat."

"Mhh."

Jungkook, 12 years old

They were shouting and screaming while Jungkook was trying to catch Taehyung after the other
had splashed him with cold water. It was a hot summer day and both 12-year-olds were enjoying
their free afternoon in the big garden after they had finished their school work.

They were still both at the orphanage. Other children had been coming and going but no one had
adopted one of them. They would always come up with new ideas to prank families and make them
not want to choose him or Taehyung- deciding against them over and over again. Jungkook was
sure that by now they were safe not to get seperated.

Who would want to adopt a pre-pubescent teen anyway?

"No, no, please not. No!" Taehyung shrieked when Jungkook finally caught him by the waist,
always being a little faster than his best friend. Jungkook tackled them both to the ground, landing
on top of the other with a smile. "Please, I won't do it again. I am sorry, I am sorry," Taehyung
gasped out between giggles, his eyes changing into a glowing golden brown color.

"Too late saying sorry." Jungkook pressed his weight on his friend, just enough that the latter
couldn't escape. Looking down at Taehyung's happy face, he felt something within him that he
couldn't identify- but whatever it was, it felt nice.

"What? Why are you looking at me like that?"

"You are ugly," Jungkook replied jokingly before starting to tickle his sides.

"Koo-Kookie, no!" Taehyung shouted out and laughed hysterically while trying to roll away. "I
will die. Please do-"

"Hey! What are you two doing here? Piss off!"

Jungkook let go of Taehyung and stood up, facing Myung, who was another orphan, staying in the
room next to theirs. Jungkook couldn't stand the older guy and they would often fight with each
other about every little thing. "What do you want?" Jungkook asked annoyed, his mood sinking
rapidly.

"I am trying to play with my frisbee and you are in my way," Myung said while Taehyung was
standing up as well, brushing off the dirt on his pants. "Can you just go do your weird thing
somewhere else, freak?"
"Yah, who are you calling a freak?" Taehyung snapped, stepping in front of Jungkook protectively.

Myung's gaze turned on him for a second and he rolled his eyes. "I am not talking to you,
princess."

"Shut up!" Jungkook hissed, not liking the way that brat was addressing his best friend. He looked
down at the blue frisbee in Myung's hand and then back at his face. "What is your problem? Just
play somewhere else, then. You don't own the garden," he muttered before grabbing Taehyung's
arm, starting to move. He was not in the mood to get in trouble today. "Let's go."

"Hey, freak, I wasn't done talking to you and your little bitch!"

Jungkook turned around angrily, ready to fight the other but before he could even utter a word, the
frisbee was flying right into his face, hitting him hard enough to make him stumble back.

Taehyung turned toward him, his eyes wide and a look of shock was on his face. "Kookie, are you
okay?" he asked with panic in his voice before glaring at Myung. "Are you out of your fucking
mind? That could have hit his eyes you dumb fuck!"

"Yah, don't curse, Tete," Jungkook scolded him absentmindedly, like he always would when his
friend started using bad words. Jungkook cupped his cheek, feeling blood on his face. It hurt.

"I, I just threw it. I didn't expect that the frisbee would really hit you," Myung mumbled, shocked,
before turning around and running away.

"Yeah, you better run fast, asshole," Taehyung yelled after him before stepping into Jungkook's
personal space, pulling his hand away, and grabbing his chin to get a better look at his face. "Oh,
no, you have a cut on your cheek, and look at all that blood," Taehyung whined, his eyes drooping
at the corners.

"I am okay."

"No, you are not okay. It must hurt like hell. Let's go to the nursery. I will kick Myung's ass later
for doing that to you. And I will tell on him so he will get scolded, that asshole. I can't believe he
threw a fu-"

Jungkook patted the back of his friend's head soothingly. "I am okay, stop babbling."

"It bleeds a lot though. I don't like it," Taehyung said worriedly, reaching for Jungkook's hand as
they started to walk back inside the building.

Taehyung, 14 years old

"Don't move," Taehyung mumbled while being busy drawing a lotus flower on Jungkook's upper
arm. They were in the middle of class but their teacher had left for a moment, giving the students
room to do whatever they want to. And Taehyung, who was getting bored very quick, had decided
to draw something on Jungkook's skin.

"Are you finally done? I am tired to sit still."

"No, don't be a baby. Just wait a bit longer."

"I am two months older. You are a baby." Jungkook tilted his head, trying to take a glimpse at his
friend's drawing. "Let me see it."

"No. It is not done yet."

"What about now?" Jungkook asked again after a beat of silence.

"Yah." Taehyung clicked his tongue, slapping his friend's arm. "You are so fucking restless and
annoying. Can't you just stay still for a moment? You don't even deserve my pretty flower on your
skin."

"Yeah, yeah, whatever. Is it done now?"

"Wait. Wait. Okay, now. It is finished," Taehyung said, proudly examining his art. "So pretty."

Jungkook sneezed before turning his arm so he could look at the drawing. "Oh, it is really pretty.
You are talented. I like it."

"You do?"

"Yes." Jungkook brushed his finger across the flower. "I want to get a tattoo with a smiliar motive
when I will be older. Do you think it would fit me?"

Taehyung eyed his handsome best friend. What a question. As if there would be something that
wouldn't fit him. But Taehyung wouldn't tell Jungkook that, obviously. "If you will finally grow
muscles some day, then maybe," he teased, showing him his tongue.

Jungkook scoffed playfully. "You just wait. I will be tall and with tattoos and a lot of muscles. You
won't be able to re-"

"Quiet." Their teacher suddenly stomped back into the room, startling the whole class. She walked
towards their table, pointing at Jungkook. "Mrs. Vi wants to speak to you in her office. Now."

"Why?"

"Just go already," she snapped before walking back to the front. Most of the teachers in the
orphanage weren't much nicer than the other employees. It was unbelievable that those people
were allowed to work with children.

Taehyung frowned, not liking the situation at all. He glanced at his best friend with a worried
expression. This was so sudden and unexpected. "Kookie," he whispered.

Jungkook seemed to feel the concern in Taehyung's voice. He patted his head while standing up.
"Don't worry. I am sure everything is alright."
"Jungkook, do you need me to accompany you to the office?" their teacher asked impatiently,
crossing her arms in front of her huge chest.

"No need. I am on my way," Jungkook mumbled annoyed, walking past her and out of the door.

Taehyung watched his best friend leaving the room. He couldn't ignore the bad feeling in his gut.
Calling someone out of class was very unusual. Mrs. Vi had never done something like that before.
Taehyung was worried.

Would his friend get scolded because of something they did?

︵‿︵

Jungkook came back for lunch, meeting Taehyung at their usual spot in the cafeteria. He put his
plate on the table while sitting down, avoiding eye contact.

"So? What is it?" Taehyung asked, noticing that his best friend was too quiet all of a sudden. He
seemed to be deep in thoughts.

"Hmm?" Jungkook briefly looked up at him before grabbing his sticks to start eating, his
expression unreadable. "Nothing."

"What do you mean nothing? Why did she need to talk to you so urgently? What did she want from
you?"

"I said it is nothing. It is not important," Jungkook replied, almost with an attitude. "Just eat."

Taehyung dropped his sticks on his plate, glaring at his best friend. "Yah! What is it? Don't act like
a brat!"

"You are a brat yourself." Jungkook glared back at him but then his eyes softened. He sighed. "I
don't want to fight, Tete. We never fight. Please- just drop it."
"We also don't keep any secrets from each other. So- things seem to change around here, huh?"
Taehyung retorted before standing up. "I am not hungry anymore."

"Tae."

"See you around." Taehyung rushed out of the cafeteria, feeling deeply hurt. Jungkook was his
only family and they would tell each other everything. The fact that the other was keeping
something away from him, hurt Taehyung, making him emotional.

Entering their room, Taehyung shut the door and pulled off his sweater before plopping on the
bed. He was glad that the other two kids weren't in there as angry tears started to well up in his
eyes. He had never felt miserable because of his best friend. This was the first time and he hated it.
"Stupid brat."

The door opened shortly after and Jungkook walked into the room, wearing an exhausted
expression, sighing deeply. "Hey."

Taehyung didn't reply but turned on his side so he wouldn't need to see the other's face. He knew it
was childish but technically he was still a kid anyway, so he didn't care.

"Tete."

"Don't call me that. I am mad at you."

Jungkook sighed exaggeratedly, sitting down next to him on the bed. "Can I explain it?"

"Oh- so now you want to explain, huh?" Taehyung mumbled sarcastically and turned his head, his
eyes falling on the lotus flower on Jungkook's arm which suited him so well. Taehyung pouted.
"You don't deserve my drawing on your-" He trailed off when Jungkook suddenly cupped his
cheek, wiping away a tiny tear.

"Are you crying because of me?" Jungkook asked softly, his expression sad. "Please don't." He
pulled his hand away, lowering his head. "I-I never wanted to make you cry. I feel bad. I am sorry,
Tete."
"Why didn't you just tell me what happened then? Why are you hiding something from me? It hurts,
you know?" Taehyung mumbled, looking up at Jungkook with a pout. He felt a little better that his
friend had come after him and seemed to care enough for his feelings, but he was still very
confused. Something was obviously off. "What did Mrs. Vi say for you to-"

"She wants you to choose the Min family."

Taehyung needed a moment to understand what Jungkook was saying. Those words were
unexpected. "What? She wants what?"

Jungkook rubbed his nape and averted his gaze to the ground. "You know, the family that visited
because of you two times already. They are very fond of you and they would give you a good home
and a chance and-"

Taehyung sat up, eyeing him suspiciously. "Wait, wait. What the- Are those her words or is this
you, saying that to me? You are confusing me. What is wrong? And why would Mrs. Vi talk to you
about my

"Because she knows that you won't listen to her- but maybe you would listen to me."

Taehyung waited for the punch line and the laughter at the end but there was nothing. He couldn't
believe what Jungkook was saying right now. They had spent the past nine years together, sticking
to each other like glue, fighting everyone else off. How could his best friend suddenly tell him to go
away after all they had been through? "Are you telling me to leave? Please tell me that this is not
true."

Jungkook looked at him and sighed, his soft brown eyes almost pleading. "I am telling you to take
the chance, to get a family- a better life. You are 14 now. If you won't like your new parents, you
can move out of their home a few years later but in the meantime, you will have-"

"Stop talking! You are giving me a headache and I never had one before. So please, stop talking
like her!! Did that bitch wash your brain? What is happening here? If this is a bad joke, you
should stop it now." Tears welled up in Taehyung's eyes once again but he held them back. He
needed to stay sane.

"Stop cursing." Jungkook let out a deep breath. "Listen. This family is a good chance for you. You-
"

"You are my fucking family! I didn't need anyone else when I was five and I definitely don't need
someone now! Did you forget all the pranks we did in front of those people so they wouldn't take
one of us away, wouldn't separate us? Have you already forgotten our plan to stay together until
we are old enough to leave this fucked up place? What, what is wrong with you?" Taehyung felt a
tear rolling down his cheek and brushed it away. He could tell that there was something else
Jungkook wasn't telling him. And it bothered him a lot.

Why would his best friend hide something from him?

"We played around enough, Tae. We need to think about our future. I want you to be happy. I want-
"

"You make me happy, asshole! Do you even listen to yourself right now? Do you want us to
separate so bad? Stop it! Who are you? Bring me my Kookie back," Taehyung said before covering
his mouth and letting out a sob. He couldn't hold it back anymore. "I don't care what that bitch told
you, I will not leave you. That is my last word."

"I told you to stop cursing." Jungkook groaned, obviously frustrated at that moment. "Why are you
so- difficult? Why won't you understand what I mean?" He took a deep breath and waited for
Taehyung to say something but after he stayed silent Jungkook continued, "I will leave the
orphanage, as well."

Taehyung looked up at him with widened eyes, not believing his ears. "You are lying."

"No, I found a family who is going to take me."

"Liar. You are only trying to persuade me to leave. Why are you doing this? What are you hiding?"

"I am not lying, Tae. I have met them last week, remember? Family Jung. They are very nice and I-
"

"Shut up! Stop it! I don't want to hear anything about it." Taeyhung angrily wiped his eyes, glaring
at Jungkook who was looking back at him with longing eyes, as if to say sorry. Not knowing if he
could believe anything the other had said, Taehyung felt betrayed and sick to his stomach. "I-I
 didn't know that you are so fed up with me, that you can't stand being around me for another few
years. I thought we were best friends." Taehyung got off the bed, not wanting to start crying like a
baby in front of the other. Jungkook didn't deserve his tears. Not today.

"Tae, I am your best friend. Why don't you understand that it will be for your best? For-"

"Fuck you," Taehyung muttered before leaving the room with tear-stained cheeks. His favorite
person had turned his back on him. Life was fucked up.

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Thank you for reading!

And sorry for that ending
 Chapter 2
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Taehyung yawned. He hadn't slept well last night- his fluffy, cute but annoying dog keeping him
awake during the thunderstorm. The Pomeranian had cried and jumped onto his bed in the middle
of the night, demanding to be held and caressed. Taehyung stood up with a yawn, staring down at
the sleeping rascal. "Look at you, sleeping like an angel after keeping me awake all night, you little
brat. And I need to go to work now. Life is unfair." He yawned again, tiptoeing around his snoring
dog, heading for the bathroom.

Taehyung was 22, living together with Jimin who he had met in college. He was working part-time
at the local bookstore and he would probably be late again. But the owner of the store, Jimin's
uncle, was nice and didn't care too much at what time he would arrive- as soon as he would arrive
at work at all.

Taehyung looked into the mirror, grimacing at his image. His curls were in a hopeless condition.
He looked like he didn't sleep at all but he was also to lazy to get ready. He would love to go
straight back to bed, but he couldn't do that -obviously. After just doing the bare minimum like
brushing his teeth, and putting on some clothes, Taehyung headed to the kitchen.

Jimin was sitting at the table, eating some cereals. "Good morning, sleepyhe- Wow, you look like
you didn't sleep for the past three weeks, dude."

"No shit! Guess what? I hardly slept because of that fucking thunderstorm. Yeontan was keeping
me awake the whole night." Taehyung poured himself a cup of coffee, grateful that Jimin made
enough for both of them. "Anyway, I need to hurry up, I am already late. Can you take a walk with
my annoying dog before joining me at the book store later? He is still asleep."

"Yes, sure. I got you, buddy. And don't call him that. You love him to death."

"I do." Taehyung sighed and grabbed the cup, heading to the door to put on his shoes and a coat.
"Thanks, see you later, Jimin."

"Wait. You are going to work, looking like that?" the blonde asked, pointing at his hair with a
smirk on his face.

"Yes, bye~"

The small bookstore was in the center of town, only a ten-minute walk away from their apartment.
The store was cozy and smelled of old books. Taehyung loved working there. When he entered
through the door, Jimin's uncle was already behind the counter, looking up at him. "Hello uncle,"
Taehyung greeted the older man with a smile.

"Hey!" Hansol glanced at his watch before turning his eyes back at him with a chuckle. "Well, you
are almost punctual," he joked before widening his eyes. "What happened to you? You look-"

"I know, I know. My dear dog kept me up the whole night because of the thunderstorm."
Taehyung pulled off his coat, throwing it on the chair behind the counter. "And now that
troublemaker is sleeping sound and safe while I have to function."

"You don't look that horrible, it is just your hair- I think I haven't seen them in such a state before,"
Hansol replied with a laugh. "But handsome young men like you or Jimin- I think you can afford
it."

"Geez. Thanks, I guess." Taehyung yawned, stretching his arms behind his head. "Have any
customers come today already?"

"No, son. We have bad weather today. You can go to the back and unpack some of the new books.
They were delivered yesterday afternoon and I didn't have the time to do it yet."

Taehyung clapped his hands together to motivate himself. "Alright. Let's do it then. Just call me if
you need help with the customers." He took one last sip of his coffee before walking to the back,
getting greeted by two big packages. He rolled up the sleeves of his shirt and grabbed for the
scissors to open the first one. "Here we go."

The first customers were coming in after a while and Taehyung was hurrying up to finish
unpacking. He grabbed some books and started to put them on the shelves, greeting some people
politely on his way to the front. He headed to the cooking section with a book under his arm and
stopped in front of a customer, who was looking at the shelf. Taehyung waited, running a hand
through his disshelved hair, resisting to yawn loudly. He was getting more tired after working for a
while.

Noticing that the blonde guy in front of him didn't seem to find the book he was looking for,
Taehyung stepped closer. "Hey, can I help you to find something particular?" he offered to help,
readying up his customer smile.

"Yes, please-" The guy turned around, glancing at his name tag, "Kim Taehyung. Hi, I am Hobi. I
am looking for a cooking book for- dummies." He grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his
head shyly.

Taehyung nodded with a warm smile. "I see. One moment, let me help you," he mumbled, already
knowing what he could recommend him. "We have actually two good cooking books for
beginners, but I would recommend you this one here." Taehyung pulled the thin white book out of
the shelf, handing it to him. "I have the same one at home," he added with a wink.

"Oh, really? So, you are a bad cook as well?"

"The worst." Taehyung chuckled. "But this book describes everything pretty well. I would totally
recommend it."

"Okay, got it. You are the expert. I will-"

"Hobi, did you find something yet?" A male voice interrupted the blonde, approaching them.

Taehyung turned his head and his eyes fell on a broad shoulder first. His gaze wandered up to the
person's face. It's then that he saw it- a pair of familiar big doe eyes staring right back at him. The
same eyes that he thought he would never see again. Taehyung noticed that he was holding his
breath and exhaled very slowly.

No. That can't be real.

The guy in front of him had matured, wearing piercings now, but Taehyung would recognize him
anywhere. Jungkook. Seeing him again after so many years was too much. Taehyung hadn't had
time to prepare.
Jungkook had his mouth open slightly, letting his eyes wander over Taehyung's face as if he was
tracing each feature, each line.

"I guess I have the book I need, Kook, but- what is happening here?" Hobi asked, probably sensing
the tension between them.

Taehyung opened and closed his mouth several times but he wasn't able to form a coherent
sentence. He couldn't help but stare at Jungkook's face, observing how handsome the other had
grown. His eyes sparkled with self-confidence, his hair was perfectly styled and he managed to
look like a runway model in basic black sweatpants, boots and a puffy jacket. He had two earrings
dangling on his left ear, fitting his style perfectly.

Oh fuck.

Only now did Taehyung remember that he himself looked like a scarecrow today of all days. And
though he shouldn't care about that because he was more than mad at Jungkook, he still felt
embarrassed, running a hand through his locks, hoping that the bags under his eyes were not too
prominent.

"Hellooo?! What is going on here? Did I miss something?" Hobi asked again, waving his hand in
front of Jungkook's face.

Taeyhung finally snapped out of it, lowering his head before picking up the book which he had
dropped out of shock. He turned his eyes on Hobi. "If, if there is nothing more I can help you with,
I will leave," he mumbled, his voice betraying his emotional state. He started to move but stopped
when Jungkook addressed him.

"Do you work here? You can help me in the sports section."

For real?

Taehyung resisted opening his mouth in disbelief. Was Jungkook crazy? Was he seriously acting
like nothing had been going on between them in the past? He looked up at Jungkook's face but the
latter had already turned around, walking into the sports section. This must be a joke! Taehyung
started to follow him with slow steps, his feet carrying him automatically.
"So, I am looking for a book which talks about muscle development and gives tips for increasing
stamina. Do you have something like that around here?" Jungkook asked nonchalantly, his eyes
already fixed on the shelf.

As if you need more muscles.

Was Jungkook playing with him? Why was he acting like he wasn't recognizing him? Taehyung
was sure that Jungkook knew exactly who he was. And he would not play along with Jungkook's
games- all the piled-up hurt and anger from the past starting to surface. "Yes, we have books like
those, but for you- I would recommend some literature about how not to be a dick."

Jungkook turned around, raising his eyebrows at him. "I am sorry, what did you just say?"

"You heard me."

Jungkook crossed his arms, the thin pullover under his open jacket stretching over his chest. "Is
this the right way to talk to a customer- offending me?"

"Don't act like you don't recognize me! Are you for real right now?" Taehyung hissed in a whisper
as another customer was passing by, briefly glancing in their direction.

"If you can't help me with the books then I do not need your assistance anymore." With those
words, Jungkook turned around, looking at the shelf once again.

What the fuck!!!

As Taehyung stood there, staring at the back of Jungkook's head, he was fuming inside. It took
everything in him not to grab the heavy Guinness book of records, which was right next to him, and
spank that asshole's butt with it. Taehyung should be the one acting indifferent, ignoring the other.
Jungkook had hurt and left him back then- not the other way around. But here he was, acting like a
brat- like he had the right to do so.

What was Jungkook even doing here? How could it be that they ended up in the same
neighborhood? Taehyung cursed. "Yah! I am talking to you! What do you think you are-"
"Kook, we should leave. It is time. I paid already. And Bam is probably crying outside because of
the weather." Hobi walked up to them with cautious steps.

Taehyung's curiosity made him turn his head towards the window, spotting a Dobermann waiting
in front of the store. Without knowing it, Taehyung was almost sure that it was Jungkook's dog. It
would fit him.

"Yeah, let's go. I didn't find the book I was looking for anyway," Jungkook replied, glancing in
Taehyung's direction- almost accusingly.

"Okay." Hobi turned and smiled at Taehyung. "Bye and thank you for helping me," he said before
following Jungkook out of the store.

Taehyung scoffed. He couldn't believe what had happened just now. After all those years,
Jungkook had suddenly appeared in the bookstore he was working at. And as if that wasn't enough,
Jungkook was ignoring him, acting like he had no idea who Taehyung was. And now he was
leaving just like that? No way. Before Taehyung could think it through, he rushed towards the
door. "I will be right back," he yelled to Jimin's uncle before stepping out into the pouring rain.

Hobi turned around while Jungkook was leashing the pretty dog. "Huh? Is something wrong? Did I
forget to-"

"Yah! Jungkook! I am not done talking to you!" Taehyung yelled, ignoring Hobi's question, eyes
boring into Jungkook's head. He was mad. Hurt and mad. "Stop acting like you don't know me!
What is your problem?"

Jungkook glanced up, frowning. Then he sighed. "Hobi, can you please take Bam with you and
wait for me over there? I will be right with you guys," he said, handing him the leash.

"Okay. But are you two going to be fine?" Hobi asked, eyeing them carefully. "You look like you
could-"

"Everything is fine, don't worry," Jungkook replied, his tone was flat, a frown pinching his
forehead. He patted the dog's head who stared up at him, looking like he didn't want to leave his
owner's side.
"Okay, we will wait for you over there."

After Hobi had left, taking the dog with him, Jungkook let out a long sigh. He turned his eyes on
Taehyung, probably waiting for him to talk. He had put his hood on his head, crossing his arms in
front of his chest.

Taehyung was only in his shirt, his coat was still inside. He wrapped his arms around himself to
keep warm, stepping under the overhanging roof to protect himself from the rain. He had no idea
what to say, almost regretting that he had followed them outside in the first place.

"Talk. What do you want?" Jungkook asked, his voice sounding impatient.

That was a good question. What did Taehyung want from him? Meeting Jungkook all of a sudden-
after all these years- was crazy. But now that he was standing in front of him, Taehyung wanted,
needed something. "I want an explanation."

"An explanation for what?"

"Why did you leave me back then?"

"What?" Jungkook scoffed, rubbing his hands together, avoiding eye contact. "Are you for real?
You want to talk about the past?"

Taehyung noticed a tattoo on his hand but couldn't see it clearly. "Yes, Jungkook. I want an
explanation. Don't you think I deserve one? You hu-"

"It's years ago. We don't know each other anymore. Why should we talk about the past-just
because we met today by accident?" Jungkook paused, stuffing his hands deep into his pockets,
looking away. "I will make sure not to come to this book store again, so-"

Taehyung scoffed, stepping away from the shelter of the building, getting into the rain,
approaching him closer. "What are you saying? That is not the point! Don't you think I deserve to
know what had happened back then? You left without saying goodbye. You broke-"
"Would it change anything if I tell you now? Would you hate me less?" Jungkook asked, his voice
calm but cold.

"No. But-"

"Well, then there is no reason to talk about the past, right?"

Taehyung wiped the raindrops off his face, staring at Jungkook in disbelief. How could that sweet
little boy from the orphanage had become such an unemotional, uncaring grown-up? Everything
Jungkook was saying, seemed like a game to him, so Taehyung decided to play along. He wouldn't
give up. He wanted the answers he deserved. It was time to put on a superb act. "Of course there is.
I still want to-" he trailed off and grimaced with a groan. Then he backed away, holding his head in
his hands. "Fuck."

Jungkook furrowed his eyebrows, a puzzled look was on his face. "W-what? What is it?"

Taehyung sighed dramatically, hunching his shoulders as if he wasn't feeling well. "Just go. I am
fine," he mumbled, letting out a weak voice.

"What is wrong? Are you okay?" Suddenly Jungkook's voice changed into something softer,
maybe a tad worried.

"Nothing." Taehyung grimaced as if he was in pain, squeezing his eyes shut for a second.

Jungkook seemed to momentarily hesitate, but then grabbed his arm. "Seriously, what's wrong?
Are you sick?"

As Jungkook was standing too close for comfort by now, Taehyung decided to stop the act and
straightened up, blinking his eyes at him several times. "Oh, look- I am suddenly feeling much
better again," he said sarcastically, acting as if nothing had happened just a moment ago. He tilted
his head, studying Jungkook's face, waiting for a reaction. He was even more handsome from up
close and that bothered Taehyung. "So, it seems you are still human after all, having feelings and
stuff. Can you give me an explanation now?"

"You just- wait, what?" Jungkook moved his hand away, his expression changing from surprise to
anger. He scoffed and reached out, adjusting his hood. "Are you serious right now? You are still
playing pranks? What is wrong with you?"

"Give me an explanation of what happened eight years ago and I will leave you alone."

"I can't believe you just did that." Jungkook shook his head, ignoring Taehyung's plea. "You are so
childish. What are you, five?"

"You knew me when I was five- you tell me." Taehyung paused, clearing his throat. "Please, just
explain to me what happened back then!" Taehyung demanded for the nth time, the chill from
the rain making him shiver.

Jungkook glanced to his right where his friend and the Dobermann seemed to be waiting for him.
He sighed. "Listen, I, I need to go. I don't have time right now." He turned his eyes back on
Taehyung with a lot of different emotions swirling in it. "If, if we happen to meet again, we can
talk." He paused, eyes shifting to Taehyung's chest. "Go back inside, or you'll get sick."

"What?" Taehyung asked dumbfounded but before he could utter another word, Jungkook moved
on, jogging toward Hobi, trying to skirt around some puddles. For a second Taehyung considered
following him, but stopped himself.

Fuck it. If Jungkook didn't care, why should he?

Taehyung ran his fingers through his wet hair before turning around, walking back inside, heading
for the restroom to dry off. He scoffed. Who cared about Jungkook and their precious bond back
then anyway? Jimin's uncle would always say that indifference is the whole secret of life and
Taehyung decided to live by that motto, too. Still, deep down it hurt him to be ignored by the one
who he had grown up with, who he had called family for many years.

‿ ‿

Taehyung, 14 years

After fighting with Jungkook, Taehyung woke up the next morning, having a bad feeling in his gut.
He got up, glancing at Jungkook's bed- he wasn't there. Taehyung yawned while stretching. They
needed to talk. They needed to make up. It had been horrible not to chat to the other before going
to bed last night. They will find another solution, he was sure of that.

Taehyung walked towards the door but stopped, turning around. Wait. Something was off. He
stared back at Jungkook's bed, at the nightstand beside it before his eyes turned on the ground.
The spot was empty. Everything was empty. No shoes, no book- nothing. There was nothing there,
just dust. No. No. No.

Taehyung rushed out of the room, heading straight to Mrs. Vi's office. He didn't want to
acknowledge it but deep down inside of him, he knew what was going on. But he was not ready to
believe it. He didn't want to. He rushed into the office without knocking, startling the woman, who
was sitting at her table.

"What the- Taehyung! What do you think you are doing, bursting in like that?"

"Where is he?"

"What?" Mrs. Vi adjusted her glasses, crossing her arms.

Taehyung stepped right in front of her table, glaring at her impatiently. "Jungkook. Where is
Jungkook?"

"Okay. First, calm down and stop yelling around in my office!"

Taehyung was trying to hold back his tears. Jungkook had taught him not to cry in front of people,
who weren't friendly towards him. "Where is he? Did he, did he leave?"

"Yes."

No. Please, not. Hearing that broke Taehyung's heart into pieces. "Why?" he asked, feeling numb
when the realization hit him. Why would Jungkook do that? Why would he leave him without even
saying goodbye?

"Didn't he talk to you? He chose a family and they picked him up today, very early. You should do
 the same, Taehyung. The Min's are coming on Friday. They are very nice and-"

Taehyung turned around and walked out of the office. He didn't want to hear anymore. Tears were
streaming down his face as he started to run back to his room, his vision blurry. He dropped on his
bed, hiding his face into the pillow. Jungkook left. That's it. He left for real.

"Hey."

Taehyung looked up at Lin, who was sharing the room with him, suddenly standing in front of him
with a shy smile on his face. Taehyung wiped his nose with his sleeve. "What is it?"

"I am sorry that your friend left. I-" Lin seemed to hesitate, playing with his shirt. "I woke up to go
to pee very early in the morning and I saw Jungkook. "

Taehyung sat up, looking up at him quizzically. "Did, did he say something?"

Lin shook his head with a pout. "No. But he was standing in front of your bed for a while, watching
you sleep. He kissed your forehead and then he took his bag and walked out of the room. I thought
maybe you should know that."

Taehyung bursted out into tears again. "Thank you for telling me," he managed to choke out before
hiding his face back into the pillow. He hadn't even been that sad after someone told him that his
own mother didn't want him, leaving him in front of the orphanage in the middle of the night when
he was a year old. And now Jungkook left, taking a big part of Taehyung's heart with him. He
missed him already. Life would never be the same without him.

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Sorry, sorry
Some things will get clearer in the next chapter which will be from Jungkook's POV.

Thanks for reading and big thanks for letting me know that you are interested in the
story. I always love your feedback!
 Chapter 3
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Jungkook's heart was beating out of his chest as they were walking away from the bookstore. His
hands were sweaty and shaking lightly. He almost felt sick.

Why? How?

"Hey, who was that handsome store clerk?" Hobi asked, still holding Bam's leash.

"No one."

"No one? Come on! You know each other and he seemed pretty angry about something. I mean- he
even followed you outside. Did you two have a thing going on? Why haven't you told me about
him before? He is very cute." Hobi elbowed him with a wink.

"Stop talking about him!" Jungkook snapped at his adoptive brother before putting down the hood
of his jacket since it had stopped raining a while ago.

"Yah! What is wrong with you?" Hobi glared at him but then he widened his eyes in surprise.
"Kook, are you alright? You look pale and your hands are shaking. What is wrong?"

"Nothing. I just, I just need some fresh air."

"Okay. We are outside right now, so it should be enough air for you, right?" Hobi grabbed
Jungkook's arm and stopped him from walking farther. "What is it? Are you feeling sick?" He
paused, waiting for a reply. "Are you like this right now because of that guy Taehyung?"

Jungkook squeezed his eyes shut and leaned against the wall behind him, taking a deep breath.
Taehyung. The fact that he had seen Taehyung again, made his chest hurt.
How was that even possible? Why was he here in this neighborhood, working in that bookstore?
Teahyung had grown up to be even more beautiful than he'd been as a child. And still, apart from
being an adult now, his best friend from the orphanage had hardly changed. He still had those soft
natural curls and puppy dog eyes and pouty lips. Jungkook cursed, opening his eyes again.

"Kook, you are scaring me," Hobi mumbled, shaking him by the arm. "Talk to me."

"I am alright. Don't worry. It is just-" Jungkook trailed off and crouched down, holding his head in
his hands. "That guy from the bookstore was the most important person in my life when I was a
kid. He was my only family."

Bam sat in front of Jungkook and started to lick his hands before nudging his head against his
fingers, probably sensing that his owner was not feeling well.

"I am alright, buddy," Jungkook mumbled, reaching out to pat his dog's head reassuringly. Then he
looked up at Hobi, who seemed worried, too. "I never thought I would see him again."

Hobi crouched down in front of him, patting his knee with a warm smile before rubbing Bam's ear.
"Do you know Taehyung from staying in the orphanage?"

"Yes."

"Okay. Do you want to talk about it?"

Jungkook bit his lip and hunched his shoulders. "I don't know, Hobi. I ruined everything we had
anyway. He hates me. So- actually there is nothing to talk about."

Hobi sighed. "Kook, I don't know him and I don't know what your relationship was like back then.
But I do know that this guy doesn't hate you. He looked hurt, yes, and angry, but he has those
expressive eyes which tell a lot, you know? And believe me- I couldn't see any hate in his eyes, not
a little bit."

Jungkook scoffed with a chuckle. "You should stop studying human body language already. You
sound like a nerd."
"Come on, that is not the point." Hobi straightened up, looking down at him. "What happened with
you two? You have never talked about him before."

Jungkook continued patting Bam, who was watching him with curious big eyes as if to make sure
that his dear owner was doing alright. "It is a long story, Hobi. And we are already running late.
My professor will scold me again."

Hobi grabbed Jungkook's wrist, pulling him up. "Okay, then let's go. But please, talk with someone
about whatever is going on in your head right now. It is not healthy to keep it to yourself."

Jungkook hummed as they continued walking. His thoughts went back to Taehyung again. He had
been an asshole, ignoring Taehyung like that. He knew that all too well. But Jungkook had a bad
conscience. He was feeling horrible- carrying that burden with him for the past eight years already.
It had shocked him a lot to see Taehyung right in front of him- out of nowhere. He had never
expected to meet the other again.

Seeing Taehyung had made Jungkook's brain malfunction. And he was bad with feelings. Very
bad. So instead of doing what he had wanted to do and hug Taehyung, peppering him with a lot of
kisses because the other deserved not less, Jungkook had done the exact opposite. He was such an
idiot. He cursed.

"You are still thinking about him, huh?" Hobi asked, pulling Jungkook out of his thoughts. "You
were acting like an ass towards him. I felt sorry for Taehyung. Whatever happened years ago-
maybe you can make up again? You are both adults now."

"Please, stop talking about him," Jungkook whined. Taehyung would never forgive him anyway.
There was no chance that he could be that lucky.

Hobi sighed dramatically. "I can stop talking about him, but that doesn´t mean that you will stop
thinking about him, you know?"

"Whatever."

"Don´t act like a cool dude in front of me. I know you have a heart of gold, baby brother."
"Shut up!" Jungkook hissed, but couldn´t help and chuckle at Hobi's words. He liked his adoptive
brother a lot. It hadn´t been always like that.

‿ ‿

Jungkook, 14 years

"Okay, this is Hobi, our son. He is two years older than you, but I hope you still can hang out and
do cool stuff or whatever kids your age do these days," Mr. Jung said as they had arrived back
home after picking Jungkook up from the orphanage.

Jungkook stared at his adoptive father. So this would be his new family- a middle-aged couple with
their 16-year-old son.

Why would they adopt another teenager in his puberty if they already had one at home? Do they
like a good challenge?

Jungkook didn´t care anyway. He didn´t want to be here. He neither cared about that family nor
did he care about having a new home. He only cared about Taehyung. Jungkook hated the fact that
he had broken his promise to his precious best friend and probably broke his heart in pieces at the
same time. That was the only thing Jungkook could think about since they had left the orphanage
two hours ago.

But Jungkook had needed to made a decision for both of them. Mrs. Vi had put him under pressure
to choose. He hated that woman so much and the fact that she won by finally separating him and
Taehyung, was making Jungkook more than mad. He wanted to hurt something or someone real
bad for that.

Mrs. Vi had made him choose. Either Jungkook would take the offer from the Jung´s, selecting
them as his future family or she would send Taehyung to another orphanage, to another city- an
orphanage where people would say that it was the worst in the country. A lot of kids with
aggression problems were staying in that orphanage.

Jungkook hadn´t believed Mrs. Vi's threat at first, had accused her of lying. But that horrible
woman had shown him a contract, which says that she actually had the right to send kids to other
orphanages, if they were already waiting for a long time in this one, having difficulties getting a
family. And after seeing that contract, Jungkook had started to doubt that Mrs. Vi was lying.

Jungkook had been scared and indecisive. He was 14 years old after all- still a kid. How could he
make such an important decision? He was too young for something like that. The only thing,
Jungkook was sure of, was that he had wanted to stay together with Taehyung real bad. Leaving
his best friend broke his heart and Jungkook knew that it will never be complete again. But what
would have been the alternative? Taking the chance that they would send Taehyung into that hell
of an orphanage?

After Mrs. Vi had told Jungkook that the Min family would come on Friday and that they were very
interested to take Taehyung with them, Jungkook had started to believe that it would be the best
solution for both of them. He had seen that elder Min couple. They seemed very nice, had no kids,
and just wanted to give a teenager an opportunity in life. And eventually, Jungkook had given in.
He knew that he couldn´t talk with Taehyung about it, because his best friend wouldn't have
believed Mrs. Vi's threats and would have suggested to run away together. But where would they
go? Without money, without nothing and still being kids?

So- Jungkook had decided for both of them and deep inside of him, he knew that it had been
probably the right choice, but he was still doubting. He had wanted to jump out of the moving car
and run back to the orphanage, run back to Taehyung. He had not even said goodbye to his best
friend. But he couldn't- looking into those brown orbs, begging him not to go- then Jungkook would
have stayed for sure.

"So, I know that this is a time with a lot of changes for you, but I hope you will feel much better
after a few days. Take your time to settle in, Jungkook," Mr. Jung said, pulling him out of his
thoughts before leaving him and Hobi alone.

"Just for your information, I never wanted another brother. This was all my parents' stupid idea,"
Hobi snapped, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

"I am not your brother and I don't care what you want or not. Just leave me alone."

Hobi frowned and scoffed. "Aren't you a little too ungrateful? Shouldn't you be happy to be out of
that shitty place?"

"None of your business."

Hobi rolled his eyes. "Whatever. I don't care. Just don't take things that are mine." And with that
his adoptive brother ran up the stairs, leaving Jungkook alone in front of the door of his new room,
in his new home- without Taehyung by his side.

‿ ‿

"Bam, come here." Jungkook waited for his dog, who had started sniffing at a dumpster. "That's
disgusting, Bamie. Come on, don't do that," he muttered with a yawn. He was tired, his dog had
woken him up way too early for a Sunday.

A week was gone since Jungkook had met Taehyung at the bookstore and though life had gotten
back to normal, Jungkook couldn't stop thinking about the other. That fact frustrated him a lot.
Knowing that Taehyung was living somewhere close by, was making Jungkook crazy. Had they
probably always lived so close to each other- maybe even over all those years without knowing it?
And how could it be that they had never met before?

Why now then? Why at all?

Bam got very excited when they finally entered the dog park. It was very early so there weren't a
lot of people outside yet. Bam loved every single dog who was coming to the park. Looking at
him, not a lot of people would assume that Jungkook's dog adored every human being and every
animal he would meet. Bam was too good for this world.

Jungkook unleashed his dog and patted his head. "Just don't scare the ducks again, okay? I know
you just want to play with them- but they don't know that."

Bam barked in reply before running towards the lake, tongue flying sideways out of his mouth as
he started doing the exact opposite of what his owner had said.

Jungkook sighed. "Well- at least I tried." He wrapped his arms around himself. It was getting
colder, winter was around the corner. Jungkook slowly started to follow Bam to the little lake,
where his dog was already happily running around, chasing after the poor ducks.

A little Pomeranian was suddenly came running from around the corner a moment later, heading
straight towards the lake as well.
The small, fluffy dog was energetic and cute, causing Jungkook to coo at him. He adored those
little dogs as well, but he always wanted a bigger one like Bam, who could protect other's if
needed.

"Tan! Tannie, stop! Don't!" a male voice yelled and suddenly a person appeared, coming after the
dog with quick steps.

Jungkook stopped walking, recognizing that familiar voice. No way. Again? Within a week?
Jungkook turned his eyes on no one other than Taehyung, who had a fearful look on his face while
he was rushing towards the little dog, picking him up right before the Pomeranian could jump into
the lake.

"What are you doing? Are you stupid? You can't swim and it is so cold! Didn't you learn from the
last time?" Taehyung scolded his dog with a whiny voice. "Don't make your appa worry all the
time, silly dog." Then his eyes turned on Bam and he frowned as if he was recognizing who that
Doberman in front of him was.

Jungkook gaped at Taehyung, who was wearing a fluffy brown coat that came to his tighs, holding
his little dog in his arms while Bam was sniffing at his feet. The sight made his heart beat faster for
whatever crazy reason. He cleared his throat. "Bam, come here."

Taehyung snapped his head in Jungkook's direction, probably not having noticed him before. He
put his dog on the leash while following Bam to his owner.

Jungkook couldn't help but stare at Taehyung as the latter stopped at a safe distance while his dog
started to get friendly with Bam. "Well, it's surprising to see you here."

Taehyung nodded, his brown hair all windblown. "Looks like God or something else wants you to
tell me about what had happened back then, huh?" he replied, a small smile spreading over his lips.

Jungkook cursed inwardly. Again, standing in front of Taehyung made his bad conscience worse.
He stared at the other's fluffy hair, his cheeks and nose red from the cold. Taehyung looked cute
and Jungkook felt so bad about everything.

"So, are you going to ignore me again, giving me the silent treatment now?"
Jungkook shook his head before looking down. "You have a dog," he stated the obvious.

"Yes. His name is Yeontan," Taehyung replied as the Pomeranian looked up at him after hearing
his name.

"He looks like you."

Taehyung opened and closed his mouth before scoffing. "And what do you mean by that?"

"I don't know. It is just- the color of his fur and the puppy eyes. It fits you. He-"

"Jungkook, what are you doing right now?"

Jungkook looked up at Taehyung and sighed. The fact that the other wasn't yelling or beating him
up right now after he had hurt him so much, made Jungkook miserable, feeling even guiltier. But
he wouldn't be an ass toward Taehyung once again. He was an adult. He should just tell him
everything. "Do you, do you maybe want to take a walk through the park so I can explain
everything to you?"

"What?" Taehyung seemed surprised by the offer, because he straightened and dropped his hands
to his sides, looking kind of confused. "Really?"

"Yes, you- why? Why are you looking at me like that? I told you I will tell you when we meet
again."

Taehyung chuckled, fiddling with the buttons of his coat. "Yes, yes you did say that. But I assumed
it was just an empty phrase- just to get rid of me, you know?"

Jungkook nodded while scratching his head, feeling nervous. "It wasn't an empty threat. I, I guess
you deserve to know the reason why I- why I left back then."

"Okay. Let's go."

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵
 .. to be continued

Chapter End Notes

Let me know what you think about this so far! And don't hate Jungkook, please - he
is trying real hard!

Thanks for the Kudos!! ❤

 Chapter 4
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Walking beside Jungkook, listening to him talk, felt surreal. Taehyung had not expected to get an
explanation at all after their conversation in front of the bookstore a week ago, and now they were
walking next to each other through the park- both their dogs tagging along. It was more than
surreal. Taehyung glanced over to Jungkook briefly, not knowing how to react to what the other
had just told him.

"Why are you not saying anything? Cat got your tongue?" Jungkook asked, his eyes looking
everywhere but him.

"I don't know what to say. I-I wanted to know the reason why you left me just like that back then-
but now that I know, it is-"

Jungkook sighed, throwing his hands in the air. "I told you that my explanation wouldn't change a
thing. I should have never start-"

"No, no, that's not it! I deserve to know the truth." Taehyung paused, turning around to check on
Yeontan who was barking at some pigeons. Then he stopped walking, locking his eyes with
Jungkook. "I just thought that I will feel better after hearing your explanation, but I am not. It is
quite the opposite. I am even angrier now, to be honest."

Jungkook nodded as if he approved. "Yeah, makes sense. I didn't expect anything else." He paused,
glancing at his dog before turning his gaze back on Taehyung. Something went through Jungkook's
eyes. Disappointment? Sadness? Whatever it was, it had been no more than a flicker.

Taehyung shoved his hands deep into his pockets, shivering. It was cold and he should have worn
a thicker sweater underneath his coat. He looked down at his shoes, not knowing what else to say.
He was too overwhelmed by everything Jungkook had told him- still too overwhelmed that
Jungkook was standing in front of him at all.

Jungkook cleared his throat. "Okay, so- I probably should go then. I told you everything and that's
it, I guess- right?"
No.

"Yeah." Taehyung glanced up, locking gazes with Jungkook. They were standing too close, the
other's big doe eyes were making Taehyung nearly blush. He had always adored his pretty eyes,
had missed them for so long. "Thanks for telling me, then." His emotions were in chaos.

Actually, Taehyung still had a lot of things to say and ask. He wanted to yell at Jungkook for being
so dumb, for leaving him back then without telling him the truth. They would have figured it out
somehow. They always had. But Taehyung stayed quiet, his heart was racing as he thought how
best to handle the situation.

"Yeah, sure," Jungkook mumbled and turned around to call for his dog. "Come here, Bam. We are
going home." He glanced back at Taehyung, biting his lip. "It was still good to see you- despite
everything. You look good and healthy and I am ha-"

No, wait.

"WHY? Why- why did you do that?" It burst out of Taehyung- a flood of bitterness and anger.
"How could you? Why?" He ran a hand through his hair out of frustration. He couldn't just let
Jungkook leave like that without throwing his anger at him first.

"What exactly do you want to know?" Jungkook asked, patting his dog's head, who had approached
them after he had called him. Jungkook seemed too calm despite the situation.

"Why, why didn't you talk to me about what Mrs. Vi had said to you? You lied to me. I asked you
after you had followed me into our room that day, remember? And you said to me that-" Realizing
that his emotions were gaining control, Taehyung stopped and took a breath. He needed to get a
grip on himself. He couldn't start crying in front of Jungkook. He was 22 years old and not a kid
anymore for fuck's sake. "You could have told me the truth. We could have talked about it. But
you rather lied."

"I didn't lie." Jungkook ran his fingers through his hair and inhaled a deep breath. "But how could I
tell you everything? You would have tried to stop me for sure and I-"

"That is damn right, Jungkook! We were best friends! You should have told me everything, not
leaving out those very important details! And we would have found a solution. Together! Like we
had always promised each other to, remember? We had promised to stay together despite
everything." Taeyhung scoffed. "Mrs. Vi wouldn't have sent me to that other orphanage anyway.
She was playing with you and-"

"Don't say that! You have no idea!" Jungkook snapped at him, causing his dog to whine. "Sorry
Bam." He sighed. "My dog hates it when I raise my voice- Look, I saw the contract! Mrs. Vi could
and she would have sent you to that fucked up orphanage. What choice did I have?" he asked, his
expression finally showing emotion.

"It was not your choice to make in the first place!" Taehyung stepped into Jungkook's personal
space, not taking his eyes off him, feeling sad. "You could have said goodbye at least. Do you have
any idea how I felt, waking up, realizing that my fucking best friend-"

"Don't do that! Don't try to give me a bad conscience, Taehyung! Because guess what? I am living
with one for the past eight years already. So don't even start trying to make me feel bad." Jungkook
snapped again, his eyes sharp with anger. This time, he ignored his dog's whine. "It is in the past
anyway. Why the fuck are we still talking about it?"

Taehyung shrugged. He couldn't just stop talking about it. He wasn't done yet. His chest tightened
and he felt a lump in his throat- but forced it down. He was not going to start crying! "I was hurting
so much after you left. I cried myself to sleep night after night and-"

"Do you think I was happy after I left you? I- it broke my fucking heart. I wanted to jump out of
that moving car and run back to you! I didn't give a shit about my new family." Jungkook stepped
back, looking away, his jaw clenched. "Everything I did, I did to protect you. I was 14 for fuck's
sake! I had no idea if that was the right decision. I just did what I felt was right at that time."
Jungkook's voice got softer. "I don't understand why we are still talking about it. We can't change
the past. What do you want me to say anyway?"

"I am just trying to understand," Taehyung only mumbled, not trusting his voice to remain steady if
he would say more. He was so fucking emotional.

"I can't help you with that, I am afraid." Jungkook leashed his dog with a sigh. "I should go now. I
am sorry for hurting you but-" he straightened up, locking eyes with Taehyung. "I was hurting as
bad as you back then. I know it doesn't change anything but you should know that I lost my best
friend as well at that time." He cleared his throat and started to move. "I don't know why our paths
have crossed again- but for all that it is worth, I am very very sorry. Sorry for hurting you. I never
wanted to hurt you."
Don't cry. Don't cry.

Tears started to prickle in the corner of Taehyung's eyes and he silently cursed himself. "You are
leaving? Really? Just like that?" He took a deep breath. "And what now? Will you avoid the dog
park as well from now on?" Taehyung turned around as his lower lip started wobbling. Fuck .
"Forget it."

"What do you want me to say, Taehyung? Do you want me to stay here so you can get angrier by
the second? And why did you turn around?"

"I-" Taehyung cursed as the first tear stumbled down his cheek. "Just fo- forget it."

Yeontan who had been laying at his feet the whole time, looked up at Taehyung quizzically, tilting
his head.

"I have to go," Taehyung managed to say without sobbing. He felt like bawling his eyes out. The
hurt from the past came back like a raging river, causing him to feel shattered all over again.

"Wait. Taehyung."

"Tannie, come on, we are going home, " Taehyung mumbled in a thick voice, trying to keep his
tears at bay.

"Taehyung," Jungkook said again, his voice soft but firm. "Turn around."

"I wish you a good life," Taeyhung mumbled, ignoring Jungkook's plea. He knew he sounded
dramatic but he needed to get away very fast before his tears would flow like a stream. "We
shouldn't-" he trailed off when Jungkook grabbed his arm, turning him roughly to face him.

Well, fuck.

"Why are you so- Are, are you crying?" Jungkook asked, staring at Taehyung with his eyes
widened, worried.
"No."

"Why are you crying? Fuck, I don't want you to cry." Jungkook gulped visibly as he stared at
Taehyung's face, before glancing down at his chest, then quickly back up at his face. He let go of
his arm. "I am sorry for making you sad again. And I am really sorry for acting like an asshole at
the bookstore last week. I panicked after seeing you out of nowhere, talking to Hobi like you have
been always here, close to me- and I didn't know how to react, so-"

Taehyung wiped his cheek with a pout. "So you ignore people you do know, acting like you don't
when you panic?"

"Yes." A small smile appeared on Jungkook's lips. It was probably the first smile after eight years,
Taehyung was witnessing. "And I am trying to apologize here by the way."

His apologies were making Taehyung feel better. Another tear escaped his eyes, rolling down his
cold cheek and he wiped it away furiously.

"Please don't cry because of me. I don't deserve it."

You do.

"You don't, that's true." Taehyung sighed, glancing down at Yeontan who seemed confused, not
knowing if they were going to leave or stay there. His dog obviously didn't want to get separated
from his new friend Bam. Taehyung let out a deep breah, overwhelmed by too many emotions.
"Fuck."

"Don't curse."

Those words brought Taehyung back to a time where little Jungkook would wipe his chubby
cheeks and cuddle him to death whenever Taehyung had been sad back then. "You don't have the
right to tell me that."

Jungkook sighed. "Fair enough." He seemed to hesitate before adding, "I know you hate me but I-
fuck, I am bad with words- but I am very happy to have met you again, Taehyung. And I know I
don't deserve your forgiveness or anything else, but I hope you will at least greet me when we me-"

"I don't hate you."

I never did.

Jungkook seemed genuinely surprised, raising his pierced eyebrow. "You don't?" he ducked his
head, obviously hiding a smile.

"What are you smiling about? That doesn't mean that everything is fine now," Taehyung mumbled
stubbornly, but his heart felt much lighter all of a sudden.

"I know," Jungkook replied, looking back up at him. "But-"

"Tae!"

Yeontan started to bark and Taehyung turned around to be greeted by Jimin. "What are you doing
here?" he asked surprised, glad that he had stopped crying or Jimin would have thrown a tantrum,
being protective over him.

"I went for a jog and thought I visit you and Tannie in the park," Jimin replied, lifting his dog
before stepping closer. He glanced at Jungkook with a smile. "Hi, stranger."

"Hi."

Taehyung scratched his head, suddenly feeling awkward. "Okay, so- we were about to head back
home anyway," he mumbled, glancing at Jungkook who nodded in response.

"See you around, Taehyung," Jungkook said before glancing at Jimin. "Bye." He then turned
around, walking away with his dog in tow.

See you around?

Yeontan looked after them, obviously not happy to see them leave. Taehyung turned his eyes at
Jimin who had a smirk plastered on his face.

"Well, and who was that?" Jimin asked with a meaningful wink. "Did I interrupt something?"

"No, and he is no one." Taehyung had never told anyone about Jungkook because it had been
always hurtful just to think about him.

Jimin laughed, patting Yeontan's head. "Yeah, sure. Is that why you were blushing like a teenage
boy in front of him? I mean he is hot but-"

Hot?

Taehyung slapped his friend's arm. "He is not. And I didn't blush."

"Yeah sure. Whatever makes you sleep better at night, bro." Jimin paused, putting Yeontan back on
the ground before they started walking. "But seriously, who was that? And are there more hot
dudes, walking their dogs in the park? Because if yes, I should consider getting one as well."

Taehyung shook his head with a chuckle. "Stop joking around."

"Fine, but at least tell me who he was."

"Jungkook."

Jungkook. Was Jungkook back into his life?

"Did you just happen to meet him here today for the first time?"

"No. I know him from the orphanage."

 ︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Gosh, this chapter came out more dramatic then I have planned it to be but oh my-

Always happy to hear what you think about this so far.

 Chapter 5
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

"Wait, what? You just left?" Hobi slammed his hand on the table, shaking his head. "Bro, what is
wrong with you?"

Jungkook had told his adoptive brother everything about Taehyung and their past and also about
what had happened at the park the day before. They were sitting in the kitchen, drinking a beer
before going to bed. "As I said, his friend appeared all of a sudden and it got awkward."

"Gosh, Kook- are you sure that it is not just you who is the awkward one?" Hoshi asked with a sigh
before taking a sip of his beer.

"Shut up. There was nothing left to say anyway. We were done talking. It is not like Taehyung
wanted to hang around me any longer."

"Seriously, you should shut up! You are giving me a headache."

Jungkook stared at his beer. "I am glad that I had the chance to apologize to him and though we
almost fought at the beginning of the conversation- in the end it was surprisingly enjoyable, you
know? That should be enough for me."

Hoshi stared at him with a stunned look on his face. "Enough? And what now? That's it?"

"That's it."

Hoshi scoffed, shaking his head again. "So you are telling me, that you won't think about
Taehyung anymore and live your life like it meant nothing to you, meeting your best friend from
the orphanage again? He could be your fucking neighbor for all we know and you don't give a shit
about that?"
"Exactly."

"Wow. You are very good at lying, bro."

Jungkook groaned, putting his head in his hands. "It is not like I have another choice, Hosh."

"You, what? Okay. Let me tell you three things though. First, Taehyung doesn't hate you. He even
told you that. Second, he started crying, which means that he is still attached to what had happened
between you two or he is still attached to you, dumbass- and third," Hoshi paused, using his fingers
to emphasize his points. "Taehyung fucking stayed and talked to you. If he wouldn't care, if he
would hate you- believe me, he wouldn't even have bothered to stay with you in that park for more
than-"

"Taehyung just wanted to know what had happened and why I left the orphanage out of nowhere
back then. That's why he stayed."

Hoshi banged his forehead on the table, looking frustrated. "Shut up! Just shut up, please. You are
dense and dumb and an idiot. I am not talking with you anymore. You are seriously giving me a
headache."

Jungkook knew that there was a small chance that Hoshi was right. But he didn't want to get his
hopes up. Yes, it felt good to see Taehyung again and talk to him. And yes, Jungkook couldn't stop
thinking about the other, and that made him slowly lose his sanity. But Jungkook also knew how
hurt Taehyung was. He had seen it in his eyes, had almost felt the pain because of his tears. God, it
had almost brought Jungkook to his knees, seeing Taehyung cry. He had wanted to hug him,
comfort him- but he didn't have the right to do that anymore. "We are strangers now. It is over."

"Do you know what your problem is? You are trying very hard to find reasons not to try."

Jungkook looked up at Hoshi, raising an eyebrow. "To try what?"

"To make up for good, trying to be friends again. God, it is not like you killed someone in the past.
He will forgive you sooner or later."

"He would never-"

Hoshi groaned. "You don't know that."

Jungkook sighed, rubbing his eyes. He was tired and the beer wasn't helping to keep him awake.
"But what should I do?"

"Talk to him for fuck's sake! Stop living in the past. Move on! Get to know him- get to know
Taehyung and who he is nowadays, not his old self."

Jungkook closed his eyes. "I am scared."

"You are scared that he will reject you. But you are already rejected by him- if you don't try it at
all. Don't you understand that?"

Jungkook scoffed and grimaced, taking another sip of his beer. "Don't talk like a psych."

"Well, that's my profession." Hoshi yawned. "Look, I am going to bed now, baby brother, but I can
tell that Taehyung is still very important to you, so don't screw it up." He stood up, brushing a hand
through Jungkook's hair. "You know where he works. Do something or don't. Just don't cry about it
later."

‿ ‿

"You are so dumb, Jungkook. What are you even doing right now?" Jungkook scolded himself as
he arrived at the bookstore. He had no idea what he was doing, but his feet had just carried him
there. After talking to Hobi last night, he hadn't been able to stop thinking about the whole thing,
and now he was about to see Taehyung again- his heart hammering in his chest.

Jungkook stopped in front of the door, ready to run away. But then he closed his eyes, taking a
deep breath. He wasn't a coward. "Fuck it. Let's do this." Jungkook opened the door and entered
the store with sweaty hands.

"Hello, how are you?" The elderly salesman greeted him, looking at him from behind the counter.
"Hi," Jungkook greeted him back while glancing around the store. He couldn't see Taehyung. Fuck.

"Can I help you with something?" the friendly salesman came up to him with a smile on his face.

"Ehm, yes, no- I mean, I just want to look around," Jungkook mumbled embarrassed, feeling like
the man could tell that he was lying.

"Okay. Just call me whenever you need assistance."

"Yeah, I will. Thank you," Jungkook replied politely, turning to his right, almost bumping into a
ladder, standing in front of the shelves. Jungkook exhaled, puffing his cheeks out.

God! Get your shit together, you dumbass!

Jungkook's eyes were fixed on the books in front of him, but he wasn't really looking at them. What
was he even doing right now? Maybe Taehyung wasn't even working today. And if he was, he
definitely wouldn't want to see Jungkook at his workplace once again. He cursed. Idiot. When he
was about to turn around and flee the store, the door suddenly opened.

"Hi uncle, I am here! Sorry again for being late. I don't even have a good excuse this time,"
Taehyung said, rushing inside the store, throwing his coat behind the counter. He was wearing a
fluffy white sweater, cheeks red from the cold outside.

"We already have a customer, so get ready," the man said, but he didn't seem to be angry that his
employee was coming in late.

Jungkook turned his eyes back on the shelf, feeling his ears turning red. Here we go. Fuck.

"Hi, can I help you with-"

Jungkook glanced in Taehyung's direction and the latter stopped talking mid-sentence, realizing
who the customer was. "Hi."
Taehyung rubbed his eye, clearing his throat. He was now standing right next to him, his curls
tousled- probably from the wind outside. "What are you doing here?" he asked in a whispered hiss.

I missed you.

Jungkook scoffed, trying to hide his embarrassment. "As you can see, I am looking for a book."

"And why won't you try another store for a change?"

Feisty.

Jungkook raised his eyebrows at him. "Okay, I see you really want to lose customers,
recommending me other stores now, huh? That's very professional of you."

A small smile started to form on Taehyung's lips but he covered it up with a yawn. "I- just do
whatever you need to do. I have to work."

Jungkook turned around with a huff, staring at the books, for which he didn't care about at all. "I
will. After all, I didn't get the book, I asked you for, the last time I was here," he teased but cursed
inwardly for being such an idiot. He didn't come here to bicker with Taehyung. What was he
doing?

"Whatever."

"Whatever," Jungkook mimicked Taehyung but kept watching him out of the corner of his eyes as
the other started to adjust the wooden ladder which had evidently already seen its best days.
Jungkook turned around, when Taehyung stepped on it with a book pressed under his arm. "What
are you doing?"

Taehyung stopped climbing, glancing down at him with a boring look. "I am working? Why? Do
you want to put the books on the shelves?"

Jungkook clicked his tongue. "Maybe you should get another ladder. This one looks-"
"Maybe you should stop bothering me," Taehyung interrupted him before continuing to climb on
the top step, the ladder creaking softly with his weight.

Jungkook groaned because of Taehyung's attitude but he couldn't help following the other's every
move with his eyes while he was climbing that stupid, dangerous-looking ladder.

And as if Jungkook had predicted it, Taehyung suddenly slipped with one foot while trying to put a
book on the top shelf. Jungkook widened his eyes in horror, reacting instantly by grabbing the
ladder to keep it in place. But Taehyung had already lost his balance, and half slid, half fell down
the ladder, landing right into his arms. Jungkook instinctively curled his arm around Taehyung's
waist, tucking him into his body.

"Oh," Taehyung let out after a beat of silence, sounding flustered. He leaned back slightly, cheeks
flushing pink. He bit his lip, struggle evident on his face.

"Oh? What the-" Jungkook wanted to scold him but he was suddenly too distracted by their
closeness. He could feel the heat radiating off Taehyung. Having him in his arms again, was like a
balm that soothed Jungkook's heart. He stared at the other's pretty eye mole, loving the way
Taehyung was looking at him right now. As if the latter had missed this, too- had missed them.
Could that be?

Taehyung's hand was still on Jungkook's shoulder, fisting his shirt. He blinked his eyes several
times. "Ehm- Thank you."

"Are you okay, Tae? Gosh, I wanted to throw that ladder away days ago," the store owner said,
approaching them with a worried expression on his face. "Did you hurt yourself?"

"No. I-I am okay. He helped me," Taehyung replied, avoiding eye contact, staring at the floor.

Jungkook only now realized that they were still half hugging. He cleared his throat and let go of
Taehyung, stepping back. He released a long breath, his heart hammering in his chest.

"Are you sure you are okay?"

"I am fine. It was not the ladder anyway. I just slipped. My shoe soles are still a bit wet from
walking outside. But I am good. Don't worry, uncle."

"You need to be more careful! And shouldn't you thank the young man for helping your clumsy
ass?"

"I already did," Taehyung suddenly snapped, his face flushing red. He was obviously embarrassed
about the whole incident. "I, I need to continue working now," he added before heading to the back
of the store.

Jungkook looked at him, walking away, then turned his eyes at the store owner. "We know each
other. Is it okay if I follow him there?"

"Sure, go ahead -for all I care. I could tell something is going on as soon as Taehyung arrived here
anyway. The tension between you two is heavy," the elder man replied with a chuckle before
walking back towards the counter, shaking his head.

Jungkook decided that he liked the owner of the store already. He shoved his hands into his
pockets, heading for the back. Taehyung was turned with his back to him, busy trying to open a
packet. "Hey, you."

Taehyung turned around, startled, slapping a hand on his heart. "Fuck, don't scare me like that!
And what are you doing here? This area here is only for employees!" he said, emphasizing his
words by an energetic gesture of his hand.

"The store owner allowed me to follow you in here."

"What? He did what? Traitor." Taehyung scoffed, putting the scissors away. He then let out a deep
breath. "Whatever. I am working, so- What do you want? I already thanked you for savi- helping
me with the ladder, so-"

"That is not why I came here. You don't need to thank me for something like that anyway,"
Jungkook mumbled, scratching his head, thinking about what to say next. "I came here to talk to
you."

"We talked in the park, didn't we?"

Brat.

Jungkook moved toward Taehyung, right into his personal space. He could tell that the other was
nervous, getting fidgety. Though they hadn't seen each other in years, Jungkook could still read his
facial expression. He wouldn't let the other fool him. "We talked about the past and I explained
why I did what I did. But- now, I want to talk about the present."

Wow, he sounded like Hoshi. Almost.

Taehyung's eyes widened. He seemed genuinely surprised about Jungkook's words. "W-what do
you mean by that?"

"Look, I don't ask you to forgive me for what I did back then- but you told me that you don't hate
me, and for whatever crazy reason, we suddenly met each other again. And- I would like to know
the Taehyung of nowadays. What are you up to? What's happening in your life?"

"Why?" Taehyung asked softly and lowered his head, looking up through his long lashes.

Because I can't stop thinking about you since the day I met you again.

"Because we were best friends for years as kids. And now we are adults and- I just want to know
how you are doing, what you are up to these days, you know?" Jungkook replied, repeating
himself. He didn't have a better explanation for the thing he was doing right now.

"I am good."

Jungkook rolled his eyes. He understood. Taehyung was playing hard to get. But he could do the
same. "Okay, fine. You know what? Then- if you don't want to, I am leaving you alone. I
understand and I won't bother you anymore," he mumbled and turned around, acting like he was
ready to go.

"Wait."
Success.

"Hmm?" Jungkook turned around, trying to keep his Pokerface, almost cooing at Taehyung's pouty
cheeks- his fingers playing with the sleeve of his soft sweater. He still looked like the little boy he
used to be- the one who needed protection and love. Jungkook tried to act nonchalant- like he
could've cared less what Taehyung would say next.

"I am not sure if that would be a good idea- because the past is still kinda haunting me." Taehyung
ran his fingers through his locks. "I can't promise that I will forget everything that happened and
forgive you- but," he trailed off, looking like he was getting an idea. "There's gonna be a winter fair
in town from Friday on. We could meet there and talk- or whatever."

What?

Jungkook smirked. He played it cool but he'd had a hard time hiding his happiness. "Are you
asking me out for a date?"

"What!?" Taehyung blushed furiously, his eyes flicking to Jungkook for a moment before looking
at the floor. "What are you even saying? No! You asked me to talk and get to know each other and,
and I thought it wouldn't be that awkward to, you know, to go-"

Jungkook chuckled, shaking his head. "Relax, Taehyung, I am just kidding. We can do that fair
thing. Let's meet there Friday at 7?"

"Okay. And it is not a date!" Taehyung replied stubbornly, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

Jungkook nodded, holding his thumb up. "Alright. It is not a date, then."

It will definitely be a date.

"And don't smile like that! I am still angry," Taehyung muttered, pointing a warning finger at him.
"This means nothing."

Jungkook smirked, jokingly bowing to him. "I am well aware, and I will never take your
 acceptance as granted, my lord. I will fight for your forgiveness."

Taehyung scoffed but a boxy smile appeared for a split second on his lips. "Shut up."

Jungkook's breath hitched. Taehyung's smile was beautiful- that genuine, pretty smile. Jungkook
hadn't seen it in a while and it did something to his insides that no other smile ever had. "See you
soon, Taehyung. And please, don't get on that ladder again," he said before leaving the room with
flushed ears.

Jungkook couldn't believe that Taehyung had agreed to meet him. He would get another chance-
Hobi had been right. And Jungkook would use that opportunity! He wouldn't leave Taehyung
again. Never. And he would definitely make him smile more often from now on.

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Sorry for the typical falling-from-the-ladder-and-getting-caught drama like scene.

I couldn't help myself.

Thanks for the Kudos!!

And I appreciate every comment!!

Not so sure how I feel about this chapter though, but we will get a winter fair "date"
coming and also some drama and angst
 Chapter 6
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Taehyung was pacing back and forth, biting his lip, trying to figure out how he was going to
approach Jungkook in a bit. It was 6.40 p.m. on Friday and he was already in front of the entrance
of the fair, waiting for the other.

What was he even doing? Taehyung had no idea why he had suggested meeting Jungkook at the
fair at all. What was wrong with him? Taehyung cursed. The cold weather was definitely doing
something to his brain, there was no other logical explanation for all of that. He groaned. He was
nervous. He had even begged Jimin to accompany him, but his friend had said no, wishing him a
great date instead. Taehyung scoffed. This wasn't a date! He was just doing Jungkook a favor,
right?

"Taehyung? Kim Taehyung? I can't believe it."

Wait.

That wasn't Jungkook's voice. Taehyung turned around and if he had been cold before, now
his blood froze in his veins. Lin. "What are you doing here?" he croaked.

No fucking way. Please let this be not true.

"Well, if this isn't fate, meeting you here out of all places?" Lin muttered, approaching him with a
smile, which didn't reach his eyes. Lin was Jimin's ex-boyfriend. They had been a couple for a
year- most of the time living in a toxic relationship.

"I wouldn't call it fate," Taehyung replied coldly, hoping that the other would just leave him alone.
He felt a shiver down his spine and it was not only because of the low temperature outside.

"Why? Look at you, being all pretty, waiting for me like a good boy," Lin mumbled, stepping into
his personal space.
Taehyung backed away, wrapping his arms around himself in an instinctive act of self-protection.

When Lin and Jimin's relationship had come to an end, Lin had started hitting on Taehyung out of
nowhere- being very persistent. And given the way Lin had kinda stalked him before, Taehyung
started to freak out a little bit. He couldn't believe he was here. Lin had tried to get close to him
every time they would accidently meet back then. It had been a scary time. Jimin and Taehyung
had felt very relieved when Lin had moved out of town. But why was he here now?

"What is it? Are you not talking to me, giving me the cold shoulder now?"

Jungkook, please come faster.

"I am waiting for someone, so please leave me alone."

Lin snapped his head to the left, then snapped his head to the right. "Well, I can't see anyone
heading toward you. Let me accompany you then," he suggested with a wink, grabbing Taehyung's
wrist roughly.

"No! Let go of me." Taehyung felt panic rising. He wasn't scared that Lin would do something bad
to him- they were in a public place after all. But Taehyung still felt anxious, a slight fear racing
through his veins.

"Hey, come on, let's talk about the good old days. Why are you looking at me like that? Are you
scared of me?" Lin asked with a smirk, yanking him against his body.

They were too close and Taehyung struggled to pull away, but couldn't. Lin was much stronger
than him. "Leave me alone, I am serious!" Taehyung hissed.

"Oh, come on. I am just joking around. Don't get all pressed about it," Lin snapped, though he kept
his grip around Taehyung's wrist. "You should be happy that I am back in town for the weekend.
And I meet you here out of all people. I am telling you, that it is fate. We should celebrate our
reunion with some drinks."

Reunion my ass.
"I don't want to. Let go." Taehyung tried to free his arm from Lin's grasp, but it seemed like the
more he attempted, the tighter the hold around his wrist became. "You are hurting me."

"Then stop fussing around like a child and let's go to-"

"Let go of him!" Jungkook suddenly let out in a calm but firm voice, coming up from behind
Taehyung. Jungkook stepped next to him, wearing black clothes, his hair pushed back.

Thank God.

Taehyung snapped his head to the left, staring at Jungkook in relief. He was surprised about the
other's fierce expression on his face though. He seemed to boil with anger. "It is alright," Taehyung
murmured but he was almost sure that Jungkook didn't hear him, being busy glaring Lin down.

"I told you to let go of him!" Jungkook repeated himself through gritted teeth, narrowing his eyes.
His veins started to pop out of his neck. "Now!"

Lin scoffed, rolling his eyes. "And who are you to interfere? We know each other, so fuck off."

Jungkook grabbed Lin's wrist, tightening his grip until the other let go of Taehyung, backing away.
Then Jungkook stepped in front of Taehyung, shielding him from that guy. "I don't give a shit if
you know him. He looks scared because of you and you're holding him against his will- so you
better fuck off or I-"

"Don't." Taehyung clutched a part of Jungkook's jacket in his hand, fearing that the other could do
something recklessly and attack Lin. Taehyung remembered Jungkook's temper from the
orphanage and he didn't want him to get in trouble because of that asshole.

"Chill, dude. I didn't know our cute Taehyungie over here was telling the truth. I had no idea he
had a boyfriend. We were just talking anyway." Lin stepped away, adjusting his cap on his head.
He seemed to have respect for Jungkook or he just wasn't in the mood to get into a fight. Lin
glanced at Taehyung with a wink. "See you around," he added with a teasing voice before turning
around and walking away.
"Get lost already!" Jungkook hissed.

Taehyung let out a breath which he hadn't been aware he'd been holding. He still felt slightly
shaken by Lin's appearance out of nowhere. He released Jungkook's jacket, trying to calm down.
Everything was fine. Nothing bad had happened and Lin was only here for the weekend, so it
should be okay.

Get a grip on yourself, Taehyung!

"Are you alright?" Jungkook's soft voice pulled Taehyung out of his thoughts. Jungkook's eyes
were widened in alert, his expression turned into one of a beaten puppy. "Did he do something to
you?" he asked with obvious worry.

"I am fine," Taehyung managed to say in a steady voice before taking a deep breath. "I just got
startled."

Jungkook frowned and stepped closer. He reached out his hand but stopped in midair, obviously
hesitating to touch Taehyung. "You still look scared though," he mumbled softly. "Did he hurt
you?"

"No." Taehyung shook his head, suddenly wanting nothing more but for Jungkook to hug him. He
had felt so safe in his arms that day at the book store, not able to explain the warmth that had
spread through him. He wouldn't mind feeling like that again right now. But obviously, Taehyung
wouldn't ask for a hug. That would be inappropriate, right? "I am fine. I just need a second."

Jungkook nodded, not taking his eyes off Taehyung's face. He didn't seem to believe him. "Do you
still want to walk through the fair or would you rather head home? I understand if you are not in
the mood anymore."

Taehyung looked up at Jungkook, noticing his worried expression. It unnerved him a little bit. "No,
no. I am okay! Let's go. Nothing bad happened anyway. I am alri-"

Jungkook interrupted him with a groan. "This is- What was that anyway? And- Who protected you
all those years?" he suddenly asked with a degree of alarm. "I mean- it is not my business to know
whoever that asshole was, but- fuck, who is taking care of you? Who looked after you all this
time?"
Taehyung was surprised about Jungkook's outburst. Was he worried about him? "I- I am a big guy.
I don't need someone to look after me," he answered with a pout.

You haven't been around anyway.

"I know that you are doing good on your own. And that is not what I meant. Of course, you can
protect yourself." Jungkook pinched the bridge of his nose, probably trying to find the right words.
"I just- you are you and guys, assholes like him, they probably-"

"Jungkook, I am fine. I am not living as a damsel in distress- even though it looks like that these
days." Acting on instinct, Taehyung reached out and put a hand on his arm to reassure him. "Lin is-
he is my friend's ex and- he's an idiot. But he isn't even living here anymore, so it's fine. He just
startled me, appearing out of nowhere." Taehyung remembered something, tilting his head
curiously. "But what did you mean by you are you? What am I?"

"You are pretty," Jungkook replied instantly, scratching his chin, looking flustered. "It is not a
secret, so- and obviously guys would try to hit on you more often than- you know what I mean."

"I-I think so." Jungkook's compliment made Taehyung's insides warm and fuzzy. He was glad that
his cheeks were already red from the cold wind and wouldn't reveal the warmth caused by the
other's words. Taehyung knew he wasn't bad looking, but hearing Jungkook say it, made his
stomach swoon. He cleared his throat. "How about we start moving? It is getting cold to stand
around here any longer. I need a hot chocolate."

Jungkook seemed to want to say something more, but didn't. Instead, he sighed, putting his bottom
lip between his teeth for a second. "Okay, let's go. But if I see that asshole again, I will probably
give him a swift kick into his balls- just saying."

Taehyung smiled, secretly enjoying Jungkook's protective instinct as they started to walk into the
fair. "Tell me beforehand, so I can take some good pictures with my phone."

Jungkook chuckled, shoving his hands deep into his pockets as they passed the security. He stuck
close to Taehyung as they were strolling through a crowd. "And here I thought, meeting you at the
fair would start with an awkward silence."

That caused Taehyung to smile again. He had feared the same thing beforehand, but after the
incident with Lin- all the anxiety from before was forgotten. "Same."
It seemed so natural to walk next to Jungkook, looking at all those pretty lights and colorful
booths. Taehyung felt good and protected for some crazy reason. This right now was everything-
just not awkward.

There were people everywhere and it smelled of cotton candy, burned butter and toffee apples. The
winter fair was in full swing. "Do you want to eat something?" Jungkook asked, pointing at a
sausage booth.

"No, I just want a hot chocolate for now. You?"

"I am still not into sweets. But I will get myself some fries at least."

‿ ‿

After they had walked through the whole fair once, talking about everything and nothing,
Jungkook stopped in front of a shooting booth, his eyes sparkled with excitement. "Do you want to
try?"

Taehyung grimaced, shaking his head. "I am very bad at those games. But it looks like you want to
try it."

"No, I am good, then, too," Jungkook replied with a pout, staring at the ground, acting like he
wasn't disappointed.

Cute.

"Try it, come on. Win something for me."

"What?"

"What?"
Jungkook raised an eyebrow. "Why would I win something for you?" he asked with a smirk,
already pulling out his wallet from the back of his pocket.

Taehyung cursed inwardly, not knowing why he had even said that. The truth was, that it was too
easy to get along with Jungkook again. They had quickly fallen back into their old ways of
bickering and joking around. For the past half hour, it had seemed, that they hadn't been separated
at all. "I just said it because you won't strike all of the ballons anyway."

Jungkook scoffed, rolling his eyes. "We will see about that." He turned to the guy, working at the
booth, putting some coins on the counter. "I want to try it."

"Just don't shoot the poor employee, please," Taehyung joked, stepping closer to watch. He glanced
at Jungkook's concentrated expression and his stuck-out tongue. Taehyung smiled- the view in
front of him reminded him of a little boy from the orphanage, drawing landscapes in class-
Jungkook still looked the same when being focused. And suddenly it hit Taehyung like a blast of
cold water. What was he even doing right now?

"I did it!" Jungkook cheered a moment later, glimpsing at him with a broad smile on his face. "Did
you even see it? I got it on the first try!"

Taehyung had not seen it. Taehyung was shocked. Why was he so careless? After Jungkook had
left him back then, he had sworn himself to never open his heart for someone that easily again-
Jimin being an exception. But Jungkook? Taehyung couldn't risk it. He couldn't get attached to the
other again.

Jungkook held a fluffy toy tiger in front of Taehyung's face, pulling him out of his thoughts. "Here
you go. This one fits you very well. It looks like-"

"I don't want it!" Taehyung snapped and turned around, rushing away.

You are so stupid. Idiot.

"Hey! Wait! Where are you going? What happened?" Jungkook caught up with Taehyung,
stepping in front of him, the tiger dangling from his hand. "What's wrong? Did you want the
elephant? I can try to ask the guy-"
 "Stop joking around. That's not it!" Taehyung tried to sidestep him but Jungkook wouldn't allow
him to pass.

"Okay." Jungkook frowned, gulping visibly. "What is it then, Taehyung? Why did you suddenly
snap at me like a mad dog without any reason?"

Taehyung rubbed his eyes before running a hand through his curls. He locked his gaze with
Jungkook, feeling miserable about everything- his emotions were in chaos once again. "I can't do
this."

"You can't do what? Shoot balloons? That is alright. I bet you are good at-"

Taehyung would have laughed if the situation wouldn't hurt him so much. "I can't do this", he
repeated, pointing at Jungkook first and then at himself.

"I don't understand. Did I do or say something that-"

"No, Jungkook. No! That's the problem." Taehyung sighed frustratedly. "You- you are great. You
matured into a handsome, funny, smart young man. I can't find a reason to hate you, to stay away
from you."

Jungkook seemed confused, furrowing his eyebrows while fidgeting with the toy tiger. "Why
would you need a reason to push me away?"

"Because I can't be around you, I am afraid."

..to be continued

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

I was so excited for the concerts that I quickly wrote another chapter already.
Sorry for the cliffhanger, though! But the second part of their fair "date" needs to be
written from Jungkook's POV. So, don't hate me

Appreciating every feedback!

 Chapter 7
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

"Because I can't be around you, I am afraid."

Jungkook had no idea what Taehyung was suddenly talking about. But he could see the
emotions that were deep inside Taehyung's eyes. There was much anxiousness, sadness, and
uncertainty within his mesmerizing eyes, causing Jungkook's heart to feel heavy. He could tell
Taehyung was fighting with tears.

Please don't cry.

"I don't understand, Taehyung. What do you mean?"

"I am scared, okay? Scared that I will get attached to you again and then- then you will leave one
day. I-I wouldn't survive letting go of you again. I need to protect myself." Taehyung looked down,
a tear was working its way down his pretty face. "I needed so much healing after you left back then
and- I think you know what I mean."

Jungkook's heart broke at the sight of Taehyung's turmoil and he wanted to comfort him so bad. He
closed the distance, placing a hand on Taehyung's shoulder, squeezing it lightly. "I would never do
that again. I am an adult. I have a choice now. I wouldn't leave you again- I would be very stupid to
do that anyway."

Taehyung glanced up at him with glistening eyes, a pout spreading across his face. "But you don't
know that. You don't know what will happen in the future. And, I just, I seriously don't know what
I would do if you leave me again some time. I really wouldn't surv- nevermind," he trailed off,
rubbing his eyes, looking like a little boy, trying to act tough.

Cute.

"Do you understand what I mean?"

Suddenly it hit Jungkook. He was fucking selfish right now. He had enjoyed having Taehyung
back in his life, without thinking how the other was feeling at all. Jungkook realized that it was the
second time he was making Taehyung cry within a week and he felt very bad. He was such a prick.
He pulled his hand away and waited until Taehyung looked back up at him.

I am not good for you.

"I understand. You're happy without me." That realization hit Jungkook like a ton of bricks.

Taehyung opened his mouth, looking surprised. "What- that is not what I-"

Jungkook sighed, rubbing his forehead. "I am sorry. I-I am an asshole. I didn't consider your
feelings at all. I was just so happy to meet you again after all this time- even though I didn't show it
right away and- I didn't think about what all of this would do to you. I am very sorry." Jungkook
stepped back, shaking his head. He didn't want to leave but he had to. He didn't want Taehyung to
be sad every time he was around. "I made you cry twice already and that is enough. I only now
realize that you are better off without me. You looked happy when I met you and I am just glad
that you are living a good life and that you are healthy and all. I wish everything would have been
different and-"

"What are you saying?!" Taehyung asked, eyes widening with panic.

"I am saying that I will leave you alone from now on. You should continue to live your life like
you did before I stumbled back into it. You seemed happy and that is the most important thing to
me. Please take care of yourself." Jungkook felt a lump in his throat and took a deep breath, trying
to hold back his emotion. He pressed the toy tiger into Taehyung's chest. "Take this as a goodbye
gift from me. I won't be the reason for your sadness anymore. Bye, Taehyung." Jungkook turned
around, squeezing his eyes shut. Fuck. Why was this so hard and painful?

There was a beat of silence. "What? No! No!" Taehyung muttered with a sob before wrapping his
arms around Jungkook from behind all of a sudden, pressing his body fully against him. "No! Don't
do this to me," he mumbled against Jungkook's back, tightening his grip. "Please don't."

Jungkook felt the warmth of Taehyung's body and the strong beat of his heart- even through the
coat. His mind whirled. He resisted the urge to place his hands over his. "Tae-"
"Don't leave. Please." Taehyung squeezed his arms even tighter around Jungkook's waist.

Jungkook was confused, not knowing what the other wanted him to do. "But you just said that we
can't-"

"I know. I know what I said," Taehyung whined before releasing him gently. "I want you to go
away so I won't get hurt- but at the same time, I don't want you to leave because the thought alone
makes me want to throw up. It is so fucking frustrating."

You are so fucking endearing.

Jungkook turned around to look at Taehyung and saw a tear trickle down his cheek. "I won't go if
you don't want me to. But I need you to be sure that you want that." Jungkook silently prayed to
every god right now that Taehyung wouldn't change his mind. He had missed him so much over all
those years. He hadn't even realized how much until he had seen Taehyung again in that bookstore,
looking beautiful, healthy and happy. "I-I don't know what you want me to say right now. I am
confused. Please say something," Jungkook added after Taehyung had looked down and stayed
silent, holding the toy tiger in his left hand.

"I- I am embarrassed but I will just say it then -whatever." Taehyung looked up, fresh tears pooling
in his eyes. "It's- fuck. The truth is that I am already attached to you." He paused, taking a deep,
shaky breath, rubbing his cheeks with the sleeve of his coat. "It is too late, okay? Congratulations,
you succeeded in breaking into my heart again within a week. I-I don't want you to leave now.
Don't-don't do it, okay? I want my best friend back."

Fuck.

Jungkook lost his breath for a moment. Taehyung was vulnerable, fucking beautiful, and insane to
say something like this. Jungkook's heart was raging like a storm. He had always admired
Taehyung's honesty, opening up about his feelings like that. He couldn't believe that the other
wanted him back. A smile of relief broke out on Jungkook's face. He reached out and cupped
Taehyung's cheek so he could wipe the tears off his face with his thumb- finally daring to touch
him like that. "Listen to me. I know I broke that promise years ago because I had no other choice-
but I just want to tell you right now that I will never leave you again if you don't want me to! I
want my best friend back as well and I will be one happy motherfucker if you will give me another
chance."

"Yah, language!" Taehyung mumbled with a pout while leaning his face into Jungkook's touch.
"Sorry. I am just very overwhelmed right now."

"Me, too." Taehyung smiled. "And I am sorry for being such a drama queen. I know that what you
did back then felt right at that moment for you. I know that you were still a kid and didn't have
another choice. And I really appreciate the fact that you did all of that because you wanted to
protect me." He paused, biting his lip. "It is just- the pain to lose you was so much more than- I am
just happy that we met again and that you still want to be friends with me- though you have no idea
how annoying I can be and-"

"Shut up. You deserve it," Jungkook mumbled, caressing Taehyung's cheek before he realized what
he was doing. He pulled his hand away. "And you have been annoying back then as well, so what
are you even talking about?" he teased.

"Yah!" Taehyung frowned, playfully slapping his hand against Jungkook's chest.

"Does that mean we are starting over again? Are we friends now?" Taehyung nodded with a smile,
eyes sparkling with such innocent joy that it warmed Jungkook's heart.

"Yes."

"Can I hug you then?"

Taehyung scoffed. "Don't ask me something like that. It is weird. Just-"

Jungkook didn't allow him to finish but wrapped his arms around Taehyung and pulled him close
against his body- inhaling his scent, the soft strands of his hair tickling Jungkook's nose. It felt
good- as though Taehyung belonged there in his arms. He had missed him so much.

Taehyung returned the hug by squeezing his neck, pressing his body against Jungkook's as if he
could melt into him. "You got broad."

You got fucking cute.

"Well, I grew up- fortunately."

"Gained some muscles as you have always told me you would, huh?"

"I did."

Taehyung squeezed him once before pulling away, cheeks flushed- probably not only because of
the cold. He held out his pinkie with a pout. "Promise you won't leave me again."

Jungkook smiled and hooked his pinkie into Taehyung's, squeezing- just like they had done it all
the time back then. "Promise." He then yawned, stretching his arms. "Come on, I am cold. Let's
ride something."

‿ ‿

"Are you for real? Of all the rides, you chose the ghost train?" Taehyung whined as they were
waiting in line, two people still in front of them.

"Why? What is wrong with that? Are you scared?"

Taehyung scoffed. "No."

He's definitely scared.

Jungkook laughed, casually wrapping an arm around Taehyung. They were friends now, so he was
allowed to do that, right? It felt familiar anyway. "I will protect you. Besides, it is fucking cold
outside and this is the only indoor ride."

"I am not scared! And rides like that are never scary."

"We will see about that," Jungkook mumbled as they started moving. They were next.
Spooky screams were blasting from speakers attached to the walls. They entered and sat into the
open-topped train car. There was a sign that reads 'Your doom awaits inside' and Taehyung started
to fidget in his seat -obviously being nervous.

"Are you okay?"

"I am fabulous," Taehyung snapped back. Then he faced Jungkook with an apologetic expression
on his face. "Sorry. Maybe I am a little scared."

Jungkook suddenly felt bad for him. He just wanted to have some fun but if the other was that
scared, they should do something else instead. "Do you want to leave the-" he trailed off as the
train started moving, rumbling off into a dark tunnel. Too late. "Hey, you can hold my-"

As if he knew what Jungkook was talking about, Taehyung blindly reached for Jungkook's hand
and entwined his fingers with his. "I don't like this," he whined. "At all."

There were skeletons, bats and spider webs flying in their faces and though Jungkook thought that
it wasn't scary at all, Taehyung seemed to think otherwise. Jungkook could feel how the other kept
tightening the hold on his hand and though it was probably not the right moment, Jungkook liked to
be that close to Taehyung. It felt so right- so natural. He enjoyed every second of it.

After another corner, strange figures with hideous faces were approaching, walking next to the
train, trying to scare them. Taehyung yelped and snuggled into Jungkook's side all of a sudden,
draping his arm over his stomach. "I don't want them to touch me," he whined into Jungkook's
neck.

Fucking cute.

"They won't touch you, don't worry. They are just here to scare you," Jungkook replied with a
chuckle. He moved his arm to wrap it around Taehyung, burying his nose in his curls. He couldn't
believe that after all those years, the other was right next to him again. It still felt very surreal.

Then suddenly the ride was already over- totally not worth the money. They climbed out of their
train car, still holding hands as they walked outside. Taehyung let go first, scratching his neck.
"Well, it wasn't that scary."
 Jungkook laughed, playfully bumping into him. "Shut up. You were clinging to me like a baby."

"I was not. You are a baby. I just didn't want those freaks to touch me and try to-"

Jungkook wrapped his arm around Taehyung's shoulder. "Shut up, seriously. Don't start to fight
with me. We just made up an hour ago."

Taehyung smiled, his cheeks flushed rosy. "Fine." He then pointed to his left as they were passing
the shooting booth once again. "You did a great job over there by the way. And I like the tiger a
lot."

"Good." Jungkook nodded, glancing down at the toy, dangling from Taehyung's hand. "I told you
it fits you."

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

A little drama and a happy end?

So- they are friends again. I wonder what will happen next though?

Let me know what you think about this so far? Am I rushing it? I am not sure-
 Chapter 8
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Taehyung hadn't seen Jungkook for a week after the fair. But they would text all the time and
Taehyung enjoyed having his friend back. Jungkook was funny and entertaining and he had missed
him a lot. Taehyung had even gotten scolded by Jimin's uncle at work for the very first time
because he kept staring at his phone more than doing his job lately. But Taehyung couldn't help
himself, enjoying their bickering and conversations so much. And though they both grew up
without each other, they clicked again like nothing had changed -apart that they have matured.

Taehyung was at home, watching a movie on a lazy Saturday evening when his phone started
ringing. It was Jungkook. A grin spread on his face.

"Hi, you!"

"Hey. What are you doing?"

Taeyhung stared at the bowl of popcorn on his lap, which was almost empty. "Ah, not much. Just
watching a movie. Why?"

"Do you want to accompany me to a party tonight?"

Seriously?

"I don't know. I am not exactly a party type," Taehyung replied hesitantly because although he
hated parties and didn't want to leave his cozy sofa, he still would love to hang out with Jungkook.
It was a dilemma.

"Yeah, me neither. But it is my adoptive brother's friend's home party and he invited almost
everyone from town. And I am bored tonight, so I thought I should make an appearance. But it is
totally fine if you don't want to-"
"No, it's fine. I guess I can come along for a little while." Taehyung rubbed his forehead in
confusion. What was he even saying? He was such a weak man.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Okay, cool. I pick you up in an hour then."

Taehyung cursed inwardly, pushing the blanket off himself after he hung up. One hour? He needed
to take a shower and get ready real fast. Taehyung groaned. Why did he even say yes? He could
have offered Jungkook to come over to his place or go somewhere else but it was too late for that.

"Are you going somewhere? I just wanted to join you on the sofa." Jimin entered the room with a
bottle of beer, tilting his head.

"Yeah, I am sorry, bro. I am going out tonight."

"Seriously? Where are you going all of a sudden?"

Taehyung stretched, walking towards the door. "Jungkook invited me to join him at a party."

Confusion was written on Jimin's face but then he chuckled with a shake of his head. "I am sorry,
what? You are going to a party? Where did you hide my bookworm, slash, I-am-never-going-out-
on-weekends friend?"

"Shut up."

Jimin gave him a knowing look. "So- are Jungkook and you are now a- you know, are you a thing
now?"
"What? No!" Taehyung threw him a scandalized look. "I told you that we made up and are trying
to be friends again."

Jimin plopped down on the sofa, taking a sip of his beer. "Yeah, sure. Whatever you want to call it.
I saw how you two were staring at each other in the dog park the other day. There was more
tension between you than-"

"Jimin, shut up!" Taehyung yelled before leaving for his room, feeling his ears growing warm. His
friend was teasing him about Jungkook whenever he could. And although Taehyung knew that
Jimin was just joking around, those remarks still made him think. Jungkook was handsome and
admittedly very hot, too. But that didn't change anything. Taehyung was allowed to have good-
looking friends. There was nothing weird about it.

‿ ‿

"You look good."

"Thank you." Taehyung was almost panicking inwardly. They were standing in the elevator, riding
to one of the upper floors, where the party should be already in full swing. And Jungkook looked
like a model out of a fashion magazine although only wearing jeans with a white plain shirt. His
hair was combed back, his face cleanly shaven. Jungkook had tattoos up his left arm like he had
promised he would get some when they had still been kids. He really grew up to be a handsome
young man and Taehyung tried hard not to ogle at his friend.

"Actually, you look too good. I will probably be very busy to keep other people away from you."

Fuck

Taehyung ducked his head, hoping that his blush wasn´t too revealing. "And why would you do
that? Maybe I want people's eyes on me," he teased with a smirk, acting like Jungkook's
compliment was no big deal, though it made his heart bob.

Jungkook scoffed with a chuckle. "Not on my watch," he muttered under his breath. His voice
sounded possessive- almost. "You are not the type for parties and drunks and-"

Taehyung raised his head to look him in the eye. "And how do you want to know that? You don´t
know how I roll these days. I grew up to be-"

"Don't try to bullshit me. You are still the same cute and innocent guy, Tete."

"Shut up!" Taehyung replied but he couldn´t stop his heart from warming at the nickname.

"Okay," Jungkook said with a mischievous smile. "I am just joking. But seriously, you still don't
look like the party type who-"

"I told you that I don't go to parties on the phone one hour ago. So- of course, you can tell that."
Taehyung rolled his eyes, acting annoyed but secretly liking their friendly bickering. He had
missed that. He had missed Jungkook. A lot.

"I was able to tell that you are a bookworm, rather spending time with your friends and dog at
home instead of going out, the moment I saw you at the bookstore. You can´t fool me," Jungkook
replied, showing him his tongue.

Brat.

Before Taehyung could say something else, the door to the elevator opened. He could already hear
the loud music coming from the inside- he could even smell the alcohol. Taehyung didn't like to be
here, slowly questioning his own decisions. He had no idea why he had agreed to come along. But
then he glanced at Jungkook who was walking beside him, looking handsome and wrapping his
arm loosely around his shoulder. Right. That's why.

"Let's toast to our renewed friendship."

"You mean the friendship I granted to you?"

Jungkook chuckled with a nod. "Yes. I am still very, very thankful that you granted me a second
chance."

"You should-"
"Hey man, Jeon! I didn't know you would come!" A short, blonde guy greeted them as soon as
they entered the big apartment on the top floor. He glanced at Taehyung and then turned his eyes
back at Jungkook. "Wow, you got yourself someone hot to accompany you, I see. Is he-"

"Shut up, Hoshi."

"I am just saying. So, let's drink something with your friend."

Taehyung felt awkward, looking away to stare at the generous terrace to his left. That apartment
must have cost a lot of money, making him wonder who the actual owner was.

"Not now. Maybe another time." Jungkook pulled his arm off Taehyung's shoulder only to grab his
wrist. "Let's head to the bar. See you around, Hosh." Jungkook briefly glanced at Taehyung when
they started moving. "Don't mind him. He is in my class. He is talking bullshit all day long, but he
is a nice dude."

"Okay," Taehyung mumbled, trying not to bump into other people while they were making their
way towards the bar. The apartment was crowded and it smelled of sweat and booze, reminding
Taehyung why he didn't like parties in the first place.

"You don't look like you want to be here," Jungkook said as if he could read his mind. He leaned
his elbow on the bar, facing him with a different expression.

"You are right. I don't want to be here."

Jungkook ran a hand through his hair, looking alarmed. "But why are we here then? Shit, I feel
bad- as if I dragged you to-"

"Stop." Taehyung placed his hand on Jungkook's arm. "I came along because I wanted to. You
didn't force me. Don't think like that."

"But why did you agree? You could have said no when I asked you."
"I know." Taehyung sighed softly. The music was loud so they were standing close to hear each
other. "But I wanted to spend more time with you and so I didn't care where we would go."

Jungkook opened his mouth in surprise. "Fuck, Tae. Your honesty is something else- seriously."

Taehyung bit his lip with a smirk. "Why? It is better to say the truth instead-"

"I know, I know. I admire your honest soul. You are so pure. Please always stay like that."
Jungkook smiled as they sat on the bar stools, ordering some beer.

"I will try." Taehyung felt nervous because of Jungkook's words. His compliments warmed him to
the core.

"And I like spending time with you, too. That is why I asked you to join me, you know?" Jungkook
added with a grin. Then he raised his eyebrow with a question. "What? Why are you looking at me
like that?"

"Why are we so awkward?" Taehyung blurted, scratching his head. It almost felt like they met
each other for the first time today.

Jungkook threw his head back with a laugh. He had a silly grin on his face as he looked back at
Taehyung. "We are trying too hard, I guess. We should loosen up a little bit. You-"

"Hey, do you have a moment?" Hoshi was suddenly right beside them, tapping Jungkook's
shoulder impatiently. "You need to meet someone. He is in the other room. Come with me real
quick."

"Seriously?" Jungkook groaned before searching Taehyung's eyes for a sign of protest while the
bartender was putting some beer bottles on the counter. "Not now, I am here with-"

"Please go. I am okay. I will wait here for you," Taehyung reassured him with a smile. He wasn't a
baby. He could stay by himself at this stinky party for a while.

Jungkook nodded hesitantly but stood up, taking his beer with him. "Okay, I will be right back."
"I won't leave." Taehyung watched them walk away before turning around, grabbing his beer. He
locked eyes with the barkeeper by accident and the brunette winked at him. Taehyung smiled back
politely before turning slowly around to face the dancing crowd. He hated to be here and he was
not interested to flirt with the bartender. He took a big sip, hoping Jungkook would be back very
soon.

"Hey, are you here all by yourself?" A female voice suddenly asked.

Here we go.

Taehyung cursed inwardly, hating to be flirted with by strangers. He really wasn't in the mood and
definitely did not want to get to know someone in that kind of place. "No, I already have company,"
he replied without looking at the girl, hoping that she would get the hint.

"Do you mean me with company by any chance?"

She didn't get it.

Taehyung sighed, taking a big sip of his beer. "Nope, definitely not you."

The girl scoffed next to him. "How rude," she hissed before walking away. "Asshole."

"Thank you." Taehyung chuckled, taking another sip of his second beer. He knew that he was
good-looking. Girls and boys kept hitting on him regularly but he just wasn't interested, had found
out that people would leave him alone if he'd just ignore them long enough. Taehyung sighed
before turning on his seat, looking around. His eyes fell on Jungkook who had come back into the
room but kept staying in the back, talking to another guy, standing close to him. The sight bothered
Taehyung. Something about their proximity bothered him a lot. He took another sip of his beer.

Jungkook glanced in his direction briefly but the guy in front of him cupped his face roughly. Then
he pressed himself more against Jungkook. They seemed intimate as they talked but their faces
were telling a different story- as if they were arguing or threatening each other.

Taehyung emptied his second bottle before standing up. He was a light drinker and maybe it was
because of the alcohol, but seeing that guy, almost forcing himself on Jungkook, was irritating
Taehyung. A lot. He squeezed through the crowd before standing right next to his friend. "Yah!"

Jungkook pushed the guy away from himself before turning around to look at Taehyung, obviously
surprised to see him. "Tae, what are you doing?"

Taehyung ignored his question, facing the other guy instead, poking his finger into his chest. "Yah!
Is there are reason you are touching my friend all over his body? Know your limits!"

"What the-" The guy trailed off with a smirk, eyeing Taehyung now, licking his lips. "Why? Do
you want me to touch you instead? I can arrange that."

Jungkook grabbed Taehyung's wrist, pulling him to his side, throwing daggers at the other guy.
"Go away, Daeyun. Leave him alone. We can talk another time."

"Why would you meet him again?" Taehyung mumbled annoyed, feeling lightheaded because of
the alcohol, certainly not thinking clearly.

Daeyun smirked, his eyes still fixed on Taehyung. "You can leave first, Jeon. Let me talk to your
pretty friend for a bit."

"Forget it! Fuck off!" Jungkook snapped at him instantly before turning his eyes on Taehyung.
"Let's go back to the bar."

"You cursed," Taehyung scolded Jungkook absentmindedly. "And who is that anyway?" he asked,
trying to focus and glare at Daeyun, but it was hard to do so in his drunken state. "I don't like how
he treats you."

"He is no one." Jungkook started moving and took Taehyung's hand, pulling him along. "Let's go. I
need another drink." They headed back to the bar and only then did Jungkook let go of him. He
faced Taeyhung, looking at him from head to toe as if he was checking on something. "Are you
drunk?"

"Who? Me?" Taehyung acted surprised, shaking his head. "No? I am not."
Jungkook chuckled, his sour expression was gone. He even looked amused now. "You are drunk. I
should have known that you are a lightweight."

"I am not. Give me a sip from your beer, too." Taehyung made grabby hands but Jungkook kept
the bottle out of his reach.

"No way. You had enough. I don't want you to attack everyone who is coming too close to me."

"Whatever." Taehyung pouted and looked away. His head felt light, eyelids heavy. There was a
good reason he avoided alcohol. He couldn't take any- at all. He sighed.

Jungkook chuckled. "Why did you interfere anyway?"

"Huh?"

"Look at me and tell me why you approached us when you saw me with him."

Taehyung turned his head but stared at Jungkook's eyebrow piercing instead. "I like this one."

"You like what? Do you like that guy, Daeyun?" Jungkook asked, grimacing.

"No, dummy." Taehyung reached out, almost touching Jungkook's piercing. "I like this. It suits
you." He leaned away, lowering his head to look at Jungkook's arm. "And I like your tattoos. You
look good. You used to tell me that you will get tattoos, I remember."

"Well, thank you." Jungkook shook his head with a smile. "But you are obviously drunk."

Taehyung hummed, looking away, his eyes falling on Daeyun who was dancing with a girl.
Taehyung frowned. "I didn't like the way he was touching you."

"What?" Jungkook followed Taehyung's eyes before staring back at him. "Why?"
"You didn't look comfortable."

"Hey." Jungkook waited until Taehyung locked eyes with him again. "I am a tall and strong guy,
Tete. I could have stopped him instantly. Don't worry."

"But-" Taehyung frowned, raising an eyebrow. "So- did you like the way he was touching you,
then?"

"What? God, no! It is- it is complicated. I will tell you about it another time- maybe when you are
sober." Jungkook leaned in with a smile, poking Taehyung's cheek with his finger. "So- why did
you come? Were you jealous?"

"No!" Taehyung scoffed and acted like it was the most stupid thing he had ever heard. He wasn't
jealous. There was no reason to be anyway. Right? "You are my friend and I thought you needed
help to get rid of- "

"You are cute. You are still the same."

"I am an adult now, though."

"Yeah, but you are still the same cute boy from the orphanage."

"I am not." Taehyung suddenly got sad thinking about the orphanage, still having bad memories
about it. He bit his lip before offering Jungkook a sad smile. "Were you happy with your new
family? Did they take good care of you?"

Jungkook seemed to notice the change of mood. He put his beer on the counter before reaching for
Taehyung's hand, his eyes genuinely warm. "I have been very lucky to get a family who gave me a
lot of time to accommodate and who accepted me the way I am. My adoptive brother Hobi is now
one of the most important persons in my life- even though he can be very annoying." Jungkook
squeezed Taehyung's hand, a smile stretched his lips. "But I never stopped thinking about you. I
was very sad. There was always something that was missing. And fuck- I was so worried about
you, worried that you would do something stupid and try to escape and end up on the street or
worse. I-"

"It is okay." Taehyung squeezed Jungkook's hand back. "I am okay. Nothing bad happened to me. I
 told you at the fair that I got into a nice family, too." He paused, looking down to avoid eye
contact. "It is just that I missed you. A lot. Every day actually."

"Hey. Why are you getting all shy on me?" Jungkook lifted Taehyung's chin with his hand and
waited until his eyes were fixed on him. "I am very happy that we got another chance- seriously.
And I enjoy getting to know you again. I already like the present You."

Taehyung blushed, pushing his hand away, suddenly feeling very shy despite the alcohol in his
system. "Don't say that." He leaned back, studying Jungkook's face. Taehyung liked looking at
him. He was pretty. He looked more handsome than any other man in the room. And suddenly
Taehyung felt very attracted to Jungkook- obviously due to the stupid beer. "I never stopped liking
you- to be honest. You have been always my most favorite person."

Jungkook widened his eyes, tapping Taehyung's knee. "I told you- you are drunk. And you are still
fucking cute."

..to be continued

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Talk to me I would be very happy to hear your thoughts so far!

We will get a more drunk and (very) bold Taehyung next chap
 Chapter 9
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Jungkook was watching Taehyung´s every move and that of anyone else standing close to him.
Jungkook scolded himself for bringing his friend to this damn party. Taehyung was drunk as hell
by now, dancing in the middle of the room, swinging his hips seductively, tongue darting out to
lick his lips from time to time. He was a teasing flirt.

Jungkook took a sip of his water. He needed to keep a clear head and stay alert. There were too
many hungry eyes on Taeyhung right now and it bothered him. Mostly men were ogling his friend
as if they had never seen a pretty guy before. Something like possessiveness coursed through
Jungkook's veins and a wave of unjustified anger boiled within him, threatening to erupt. He balled
his hand to a fist. Taehyung's clothes weren't helping- his pants hugging his thighs and butt,
showing off his curves. He had asked Jungkook to join him on the dance floor but that wasn't his
thing. He didn´t dance. And he'd rather keep his eyes on his friend.

Two men started to get very close to Taehyung after a moment, one of them even wrapping an arm
around his friend´s waist from behind. It was intimate and something snapped in Jungkook. He
cursed, setting down his drink with a thud. Then he got off the stool, heading towards them.

As soon as Taehyung saw him, a smile turned up his lips. He tried to move toward Jungkook but
the bald guy behind him was pressing close against his body, holding him tight while whispering
something in his ear.

You are dead.

Jungkook became so mad at the sight in front of him that his body started shaking. "Let go of
him!" he hissed low and dangerous, glaring at the bald guy fiercely. "Now!"

"Why should I? I was here first."

Jungkook forced himself to take a few deep breaths, trying to calm down. It was hard not to hit that
fucker straight in the gut. But Jungkook didn't want to get in trouble and he didn't want Taehyung
to see him fight so he grabbed his friend's wrist instead, pulling him away from the guy. "Come to
me."

Taehyung, as drunk as he was, lost his footing and stumbled against Jungkook's chest, laughing.
"Hi. There you are. I missed you," Taehyung mumbled against his cheek, his breath hot against
Jungkook's ear. "It is boring without you."

"Are you alright?" Jungkook grasped Taehyung's upper arms to steady him, trying to look him in
the eyes.

"Yes, yes."

"Dude, you shouldn´t leave your boyfriend alone like that. Everyone will get the wrong idea," the
bald guy muttered bored before turning away.

"Shut the fuck up," Jungkook hissed in his direction, protectively wrapping one arm around
Taeyhung´s waist. "Are you sure you are alright? Did he say something- did he make you feel
uncomfortable?"

"Kookie, I am good. Why wouldn´t I be alright? I am having fun," Taehyung replied with flushed
cheeks. "I don't even know why I hated going to parties in the first place."

"This is the alcohol speaking. You will hate everything about this party tomorrow morning, believe
me," Jungkook replied before guiding him back to the bar. "Listen, it is late and we should go. You
are very drunk and I will bring you back home so-"

"You are hot."

Jungkook widened his eyes, meeting Taehyung's smug look. "W-What?"

Taehyung furrowed his eyebrows, pointing at him. "I mean, why are you so good looking? It´s
unfair. Look at your body with all those tattoos and piercings. You are like a sexy dream on two
legs." In his drunken state, Taehyung started saying whatever was coming to his mind. "Who
would have thought that little Kookie would get this pretty?"
Did you see yourself?

Jungkook knew that Taehyung was talking nonsense in his drunken state but it still felt good to
hear those compliments. And still, his friend needed to get into bed right now. Jungkook grabbed
his glass of water, holding it in front of Teahyung´s lips. "Drink it up. You will be so done
tomorrow."

Taehyung listened to him and reached for the glass, emptying it in one go. Then he inched closer,
nudging Jungkook´s nose with his finger. "People will be so jealous of my handsome buddy. I bet
that no one has such a sexy friend like me."

"Alright, alright. Whatever you say." Jungkook chuckled. "Let´s get you back home now, okay?"
He clasped Taehyung´s hand and was surprised when the other interlaced their fingers instantly. A
warmth spread through him which he hadn´t felt since the days back at the orphanage. Jungkook
led Taehyung out of the apartment, relieved that they didn´t bump into Daeyung or Hoshi once
again. Those two dorks from his university could be very annoying.

After they entered the elevator, Taehyung sighed, leaning his head on Jungkook´s shoulder, their
hands still clasped tightly together. "I missed you so much," Taehyung murmured after a beat of
silence. "I have never felt this with anyone else in all those years. Only you give me these
feelings."

Jungkook cleared his throat and accidentally caught a glimpse of their own reflection in the
elevator's mirrored walls. They looked like a couple. "What feelings are you talking about?"

Taehyung raised his head, locking eyes with Jungkook. "Hmm?"

Their faces were so close Jungkook could count his eyelashes- a pout was on Taehyung's lips.
"What are you feeling when you are with me?"

Taeyhung pressed their joined hands against his belly. "It feels good in here when you are with
me," he mumbled with flushed cheeks, almost looking shy.

Fucking cute.

Jungkook smiled softly. Despite Taehyung's drunken state, he was endearing to him. "I think it is
the alcohol that makes you feel that way but okay."

Taehyung shook his head vigorously. "No, it always feels good when I am with you," he said
before letting go of Jungkook's hand, leaning his head back on his shoulder, yawning. "I am tired."

"I know. You will be home soon, Tete. I got you."

‿ ‿

"Where is your key?"

Taehyung cracked a smile and chuckled drunkenly, leaning his whole weight against Jungkook. "I
don´t know. You should look for it."

"Seriously?" Jungkook sighed. On their way to the apartment, Taehyung had somehow managed to
get even drunker than before. Jungkook reached out and felt in the pocket of his friend's coat,
grabbing the key. "Here it is."

"It is in my pocket."

Jungkook rolled his eyes. "Thanks for nothing. I know. I already found it." He hoped that
Taehyung's roommate wasn't awake. He wasn't in the mood to explain anything. "You need to be
silent now, okay?" he mumbled, glancing at him before opening the door as quiet as he could.

"Of course. I can be silent. I can manage that." Taehyung grinned mischievously, showing him the
thumb up.

"That is hard to believe." Jungkook whispered before wrapping an arm around his waist to
guide Taehyung through the front door. "Where is your room?" he asked because there were two
closed doors in front of them after they had passed the living room.

"The one on the left, I guess."

"You guess?"

Taehyung chuckled. "There is a fifty-fifty chance."

"Unbelievable. Remind me that I won't ever let you get drunk again." Jungkook managed to open
the door, sighing in relief that he wasn't greeted by Taehyung's roommate but by an empty bed. He
helped Taehyung towards it and made him sit. "Fuck, you are seriously a burdensome drunk."

Cute but burdensome.

Taehyung smiled up at him and his eyes crinkled at the corners. "That is why I don´t do party and
drink. You asked me to come along."

"Yeah, yeah, it is my fault." Jungkook scoffed playfully. "It still did look like you enjoyed it a lot,"
he added, suddenly remembering those nasty hands on him, causing him to frown. Should have
kicked that fucker's ass after all. Jungkook watched how Taehyung was laying down on his back,
stretching out his arms and legs, looking like a starfish. "You are good by yourself now, right? I
should leave."

"No, no, no. Please stay." Taehyung wiggled around, kicking off his shoes. His shirt rode up,
showing a slice of skin.

"No, I should go home and you should sleep."

Please don't undress yourself in front of me.

Taehyung sat up with a jerk, suddenly making grabby hands at him. "No, seriously. Please, don't
leave me."

"What is-"Jungkook trailed off, noticing Taehyung's panicked expression. He continued in a softer
tone, "Tae, I need to go back to my apartment and sleep. I am tired, too. It is very la-"

"Don´t leave me, please." Taehyung whispered, staring up at him, his big eyes filling with tears.
No, no, no.

Jungkook's heart was breaking at the sight. "Wha- What are you doing? Don't, okay? Don't cry."
He cursed inwardly before sitting next to Taehyung on the bed, cupping his cheek. The latter's
tears were his fucking weakness. "Why are you like this all of a sudden?"

Taehyung grabbed his hand tightly as he would never let go. "Please don´t leave me again. You
promised."

Then it hit Jungkook what the other was talking about. Drunk Taehyung was emotional, mixing up
his words, probably thinking that Jungkook would leave him for good- like the time back at the
orphanage. He squeezed his friend's hand, smoothing his thumb over Taehyung's palm. "I am not
going to leave you, Tete. Don't be scared. I am just going to sleep in my apartment and then we can
meet-"

"No, no. I am sure that you won´t come back anymore." A tear rolled down Taehyung´s cheek and
he let go of Jungkook's hand to wipe it away with a sob. "You will leave and then I am going to be
alone and sad again. It will break my heart and you-"

"Stop it. You are drunk!" Jungkook cursed because Taehyung was panicking and talking very
loudly and Jungkook didn´t want his roommate to come here and see them like this. Who knew
what that Jimin guy would think about their current situation, seeing Jungkook alone with a drunk
Taehyung on his bed, balling his eyes out. "Tae, you-"

"Please stay with me," Taehyung whispered in a whimper, giving him puppy eyes. "I missed you so
much and you can't just-"

"I missed you, too, Tete. A lot. I already told you that. I would never leave you again. I promised,
didn't I?" Jungkook wiped his tears off his cheek. "Don´t cry. I can´t see you cry."

It fucking hurts.

There was a beat of silence. "Why can't you see me cry? Am I that ugly?" Taehyung asked,
suddenly changing the subject.
You are fucking beautiful. Jungkook stared at his friend's red eyes and his exhausted face. He was
still gorgeous. A feeling he wasn't willing to name built in Jungkook's chest, sent tingles down the
pit of his gut. "Yes, you are an ugly crier, so stop," he lied, hoping that his answer wouldn't cause
even more tears.

Taehyung pouted but then he reached out, touching Jungkook´s mole under his lip, his attention
span short due to the alcohol. "It looks like a chocolate chip."

"What?" Jungkook scoffed about the sudden change of mood but he was glad that Taehyung had
stopped crying. "You can´t eat it though," he joked.

"Can I lick it?"

"W-What?" Jungkook felt his ears growing hot. That escalated quickly. "No! You can't lick my
mole, what the fuck?"

"Why?"

"Why? Because of obvious reasons, Taehyung. My mole is not out of chocolate. Why are we even
talking about this?" Jungkook rubbed his forehead with two fingers, closing his eyes for a moment.
When he opened them, Taehyung's face was inches away from his, gaze fixed on his mole or his
lips- Jungkook couldn´t tell by now.

"How do you know if you never tasted it?"

"Alright, that's enough." Jungkook reached out his arms, holding Taehyung's shoulders, keeping
him away before the latter would do something stupid. Because what the fuck? He couldn't let
drunk Taehyung lick his mole. That was wrong and inappropriate. "You need to sleep now."

"You are no fun." Taehyung pouted when Jungkook pushed him on his back.

"And you need to sober up. I will never bring you to a party again." Jungkook watched Taehyung
laying his head on the pillow, flashing a dazzling smile at him. His hair curled across
his pillow and his lips were parted slightly. Jungkook forced himself to look away. Fuck. His heart
flip-flopped. Taehyung was so beautiful when he smiled like that! It made Jungkook want to agree
to anything, just to make him happy.
"Please- never leave me again, Kookie."

"I promise you, I won´t." Jungkook reached out, brushing a stray lock off Taehyung's forehead.
Jungkook suddenly felt a protectiveness toward his friend that almost overwhelmed him. "Please-
just never go out again."

At least not without me.

Taehyung chuckled with half-closed eyes. "But you asked me to come along. Did you forget
already?"

"I know. I know. I am an idiot."

"No, you are not." Taehyung's eyes closed slowly. "I am tired. Can I get a goodnight kiss?"

Jungkook scoffed with a smile. Drunk Taehyung was very needy but he didn´t know if a kiss was a
good idea. Under other circumstances, Jungkook would kiss his flushed cheeks instantly, but he
wasn't sure if sober Taehyug would want that, too. "Maybe another time."

Taehyung's eyes popped open and his eyebrows shot up. "You don't like me."

You have no idea.

"Tae, you are drunk. Stopp babbling nonsense." Jungkoook moved, ready to stand up, but
Taehyung grabbed his arm, pulling him closer forcefully. Jungkook ended up hovering over him,
taking in his scent. "What are you-"

"Do you like me?" Taehyung asked without batting an eyelid.

"I wouldn't be your friend if not."

Taehyung hummed. "Yeah, that sounds plausible. But I just wanted to make sure because-"
 Jungkook leaned down and dropped a quick kiss on Taehyung's cheek after all, not able to resist.
Then he pulled away with a shy smile. "Good night, Tete." Jungkook got off the bed and left the
room without looking at Taehyung's reaction. His heart hammered in his chest, his emotions all
over the place. "Fuck."

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Well, not a lot is happening here but we are slowly getting there-
And the angst isn't over yet.
 Chapter 10
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Taehyung was in the bookstore. It was late Monday afternoon and he would be off work in a bit.
He was still having a light headache after the party on Saturday. He had been mad at Jungkook,
scolding him for letting him drink that much. But Jungkook had just laughed it off, telling him he
wasn't his babysitter. "Idiot."

"Who?"

Taehyung turned to face Jimin's uncle. "Oh- no one. I was just in thoughts," he replied before
staring back at the bookshelf in front of him. He hated it when customers would put the books back
in the wrong spots.

"Are you thinking about him?"

"I am sorry- what?"

Jimin's uncle chuckled with a knowing look. "I am talking about the handsome guy who came here
a few days ago, looking for you. The one who caught you-"

"No." Taehyung couldn't believe that Hansol hit the nail on the head. How could he even knew
that? "I am not thinking about him." Lie.

"Are you sure? You seem more unfocused than usually these days and Jimin said it is definitively
because of that guy."

Jimin, you rat.

"Uncle, I am fine. I am not unfocused. He is my childhood friend. So nothing is going on."

Hansol chuckled. "Alright- if you say so. It is just funny because I never said that something is
going on in the first place." He headed to the back with a chuckle. "Kids these days."

"There is nothing going on!" Taehyung yelled after him, feeling his ears growing hot. Before he
could think about what Jimin's uncle had meant, the door opened. Why do people still need to come
right before closing time? "Hello, can I help yo-" Taehyung trailed off, realizing who had just
entered the store.

Lin. No way.

"You can." Lin smirked, approaching him slowly.

"What are you doing here?" Taehyung asked, backing away but he couldn't escape since the shelf
was right behind him.

"Well, I am in town again and I saw this little cute bookstore over here and thought I'd drop by."

Taehyung felt nauseous. He couldn't believe that Lin was here again, standing right in front of him
with that harsh expression on his face. "We are already closing."

"Great. Then we have time to chat."

Taehyung moved around the ladder. He needed space and more distance away from that asshole. "I
am busy. I don't have time for you. And I am not interested in talking to you anyway. So- piss off."

Lin clutched his heart dramatically. "Piss off? You do know that you can't speak to customers like
that, right? You are doing a bad job, Tae."

"Don't call me that!" Taehyung snapped and turned around when he heard the door open again.
Jungkook. Seeing his friend warmed his heart despite all that mess. He felt instantly safer with him
here. Taehyung approached him with quick steps. "Kookie, hi."
"Hey you. I was nearby and-" Jungkook trailed off when his eyes turned on Lin. A frown appeared
on his face as he seemed to remember him. "What is that fucker doing here?" he gritted out, jaw
hardening.

"Nice to meet you, too."

"Shut up!"

Taehyung grabbed Jungkook's arm. "Can we please go outside?" He needed some fresh air and he
needed to make sure that his friend wouldn't start to fight in the middle of the bookstore. He was
glad that Jimin's uncle had left for the back, not seeing them throwing daggers at each other.
"Come with me, please."

Jungkook let himself be pulled away reluctantly but not before glaring one last time in Lin's
direction. As they walked out of the store, Jungkook turned around with a frown on his face. "Why
is he here?"

Taehyung lowered his head, feeling too overwhelmed by everything. He gnawed on his lip. "I don't
know. He doesn't even live here anymore. I don't know why he is here."

"Who is he anyway? What relation do you have to him?" Jungkook crossed his arms in front of his
chest, expression sour. "I don't like the way he behaves around you- like a predator."

"He is Jimin's ex. After they broke up, he kind of started pestering me, hitting on me every time we
would meet somewhere."

Jungkook scoffed, peeking through the window. "Are you serious? And why is he here now?"

"I guess he is just visiting the town. I don't know."

"Fuck this, seriously." Jungkook bit his lip. "You wait here. I will show him not to-"

Taehyung grabbed Jungkook's arm, holding him in place. "No! Don't. Please. Don't make a scene
inside the store."
"Fine, then I will just wait until he comes outside and make a scene right here," Jungkook muttered
stubbornly. Then he groaned. "That fucker is watching us through the window by the way."

Taehyung sighed but decided not to turn around to give Lin the satisfaction. Instead, he looked at
Jungkook, feeling happy that he was with him. Then he remembered something. "Why are you
here?"

Jungkook turned his eyes back on him. "Huh?"

"Why did you come here?"

"I knew that you would be done with work in a bit and I was nearby- so I thought we could walk
back home together since we have the same way. Or we could go for a drink if you are in the
mood." Jungkook paused, pointing inside the bookstore. "Now I am very glad that I came."

Taehyung liked the idea to spend some more time with Jungkook. "We can go to and drink
something.. Sounds good. Let me just get my-" he trailed off when Jungkook grabbed his arm,
pulling him closer. "W-what are you doing?"

"That asshole is still watching you." Jungkook furrowed his brows before closing the distance,
putting his hands on Taehyung's waist. "Let's pretend I am your boyfriend for a moment. Maybe it
will help to keep him away."

Taehyung could smell Jungkook's aftershave. The latter's proximity was doing something to him
he couldn't explain. "Okay. I don't know if it will change something but we can try it."

"Can I give you a kiss on the cheek?"

"Huh?"

"I mean- just to act like we are together, you know?" Jungkook paused, nudging his nose. "I
already did it anyway," he added with a smile.
Taehyung widened his eyes. "What? When? W-when did you kiss me?" And why did I miss it?

"You begged for it when I brought you home after the party. You were drunk as fuck," Jungkook
replied with a chuckle before locking gazes with him, eyes sparkling with something mischievous.
"You were very annoying but still cute."

"Shut up." Taehyung tried not to notice how close their faces were. He could feel the tantalizing
sweetness of Jungkook's breath fan across his lips. "Did I really ask you to give me a goodnight
kiss?"

"Yes. And I ended up pecking your cheek because else you wouldn't have let me go home."

Taehyung rolled his eyes, acting annoyed, though he loved that Jungkook had taken care of him.
"Is Lin still watching us?"

"Mhh."

"Okay, then-" Taehyung trailed off, planting a gentle kiss on Jungkook's scar. He had always
wanted to do that anyway. Then he wrapped his arms around his friend, burying his face in the
curve of Jungkook's neck, feeling bold all of a sudden. "Do you think we look like a couple now?"
he asked while his heart was threatening to jump out his chest. He was fucking nervous and it
didn't help that Jungkook smelled amazing.

"Yeah, it should work." Jungkook caressed the back of his head. "Maybe he will finally get it
now."

Warmth enveloped Taehyung and he wasn't sure about anything right now. It was so bad he felt
like his heart wanted to combust. Why was his body reacting like that? Taehyung pulled away
when the door opened.

Lin walked outside with a smirk, his eyes falling on Taehyung. "It is closing time already. My bad
for coming so late. I didn't find the book I want, so maybe I will come aga-"

"You will stay the fuck away from him or I will smash your face against the nearest surface,"
Jungkook hissed, taking two steps in Lin's direction.
Taehyung grabbed his friend's arm, holding him back from doing something stupid. "Don't."

"Chill. I just came to find a book, buddy. I am not planning to steal your boyfriend. Unless he
wants it," Lin replied with a wink before walking away, not looking back.

Taehyung tightened his hold on Jungkook's jacket as the latter was obviously struggling to keep his
composure. He feared that his friend would run after Lin any second and beat him up for good. "He
is just trying to annoy you. Please don't let him succeed. He is harmless. Just let him go."

Jungkook turned his eyes at Taehyung and cursed. He sighed. "I need a coffee and you are coming
with me. You will tell me everything about that asshole. Only then I will decide if he is harmless
or not."

‿ ‿

They were at the tiny coffee bar, opposite the bookstore. Taehyung had told Jungkook everything
about Lin but was already regretting it after noticing his reaction. "It is alright."

"It is not." Jungkook sounded calm but his left hand was balled into a fist, his eyebrows furrowed
in thought. "You do realize that he is stalking you, right?"

"He is not. It is not enough to call it stalking anyway." Taehyung paused, taking a sip of his hot
chocolate, Jungkook had bought him. "I mean, he is an asshole, yes. He has probably some
business going on around here these days. And he took the opportunity to annoy me. That is all he
is doing."

Jungkook scoffed, pressing his tongue against his cheek. "How do you know that he is not
dangerous?"

"I don't know for sure," Taehyung replied honestly. "But apart from scaring me, he never did
something real bad. He never-"

"Tae, stop defending what he is doing. I saw him standing too close to you, gripping your arm
against your will. That is bad enough for me."
Taehyung sighed. He felt tired all of a sudden and his headache was getting worse. There was no
point talking about Lin anyway. "Just forget it, please. He will leave again. He has always been
like that and-"

Jungkook slammed his fist on the table, making other customers turn their heads in curiosity. "That
is not an excuse! I will cut his balls off, seriously! He can't just do whatever he wants. Fuck him!"

"Calm down." Taehyung hissed in a whisper. "Can we change the subject?" He didn't want to be
the center of attention. And he knew that Jungkook would only get angrier if they would continue
talking about Lin. "Please."

"Not yet." Jungkook took a deep breath as if to calm himself. Then he leaned closer, resting his
warm palm over Taehyung's hand, that hard look around his eyes softening. "Look at me and
promise me that when that fucker will come to the bookstore again or you will meet him
somewhere, anywhere -you will call me instantly."

Taehyung grimaced, not liking where this was going though he felt a warmth sweep over him, a
feeling of protection he had already needed back then. "I told you I am not a damsel in-"

"Promise me!" Jungkook tightened the hold on his hand, his eyes begging. "I am your friend and I
worry about you. If you won't promise me, then I can't sleep peacefully at night."

Taehyung scoffed playfully but locked eyes with Jungkook before saying, "I promise."

For a moment they just stared at each other silently. "Okay." Jungkook pulled his hand away,
leaning back in his chair. He seemed satisfied with the answer. "You can change the topic now if
you want."

Taehyung almost cooed because of Jungkook's pout, wondering if the other even knew that he was
sulking. He looked like the little boy from the orphanage right now, too cute for his heart. "I
wanted to know if-"

"No, wait. I have another question," Jungkook interrupted him, his expression suddenly lightening
up. "Do you think I am hot?"
What the fuck? There goes the little kid image.

Taehyung was glad that he hadn't been drinking at that moment because he would have definitely
choked on his chocolate. "Sorry, what?"

Jungkook smirked, leaning closer over the table, his eyes beaming, gone was the bad mood. "You
know when we were at that party, you told me that I am like a sex god or something like that."

"Yah!" Taehyung swiveled his head to see if anyone had overheard, sighing in relief. The other
guests didn't seem to pay attention to them anymore. "Watch your loose mouth, will you?"

Jungkook laughed. "Fine. Fine. But answer me. Am I attractive in your eyes?" He gave him a
modest smile, teasingly fluttering his eyelashes.

What a stupid question.

For a moment Taehyung wished they would continue talking about Lin because what was that all
of a sudden? He stared at Jungkook intently. With those big brown doe eyes, kissable lips, snub-
nose, chin sharp as if sculpted- he was a heartbreaker. "I have eyes, you know? Of course, you are
attractive. But you are also arrogant. And a brat."

And I am so glad to have you back in my life.

Jungkook chuckled, crossing his arms in front of his chest. He looked smug, almost happy. "And
what exactly is so attractive about me? Is it my face or my body or-"

Taehyung was surprised that Jungkook had started talking about something like that but he was no
one to be shy about those things. He was straightforward and honest. "You are my type- from a
visual point of view."

Jungkook widened his eyes with a cocky grin. "Am I?"

"Yes, I like guys with muscles and tattoos and piercings. So, you fall into that category. But that's
it." Taehyung paused before adding dramatically, "Your personality is horrible though. So don't
flatter yourself too much."
Jungkook threw his head back and started laughing. "You are unbelievable. So you are saying that-
"

"Jungkookie, hi~"

Jungkookie?

A blonde girl was suddenly standing next to their table. She reached out, resting her hand on
Jungkook's shoulder. "How are you doing?"

"Hi Yeri. I am doing good. How are you?"

"I am great! It is good to see you outside of university for a change."

Taehyung eyed the pretty girl, not liking the way she was batting her eyelids at Jungkook. He
couldn't explain it but it didn't sit right with him.

"Yeah, it's good to see you, too," Jungkook replied politely, smiling back at her.

"Did you understand anything from our last class with Mr. Yun?" Yeri asked with a laugh. "He is
sooo boring, I slept through the whole lesson, I guess. I don't even know why I am studying at all."

Who cares?

Taehyung tried hard not to roll his eyes at her. He was annoyed and he didn't even know why.
"Hey," he said before Jungkook could reply to her. "Listen, we are in the middle of a conversation,
so-"

Only now did Yeri seem to notice Taehyung, sitting there, too. She bowed slightly. "Oh- sure. You
are right. My bad." She turned her eyes back on Jungkook. "Have fun. See you around, Kookie."
"Kookie my ass," Taehyung muttered under his breath after the girl had finally left. There was a
beat of silence and he looked up to notice Jungkook staring at him with a shit-ass grin on his face.
"What?"

"What was that all about?"

"Why? We were talking and she just interrupted us, chatting with you about class or whatever.
That's rude. I was-"

"Wow. Look at you."

"What?"

Jungkook leaned forward once again, raising an eyebrow at him. "It is interesting. You are reacting
the same way- it doesn't matter if you are drunk or sober, huh? You are so simple."

"What do you mean by that?"

"You are getting jealous very quickly."

"Are you crazy?" Taehyung wanted to smack that stupid, handsome smirk out of his face. "I am not
jealous. What the fuck?"

"Don't curse and yes, you are. Jealous and possessive."

"You are cursing more than me." Taehyung leaned back, crossing his arms in front of his chest. He
felt flustered but tried not to show it. "And I am not jealous." Why would I be?

"Fine." Jungkook laughed with a shake of his head. "Whatever makes you sleep better at night." He
glanced at his watch. "It is getting late, we should go. I need to take Bam out for a walk or an
accident is going to happen very soon."

"Can I join you? Tannie misses him." Taehyung wouldn't admit it but he was still slightly shaken
 after meeting Lin again and Jungkook's presence was making him feel calm and better. He didn't
want to separate with him right now.

"I am pretty sure Bam feels the same," Jungkook replied with a smile. "Your dog is hella cute. Just
like you," he added nonchalantly while putting some money on the table.

Flirty tease.

"Shut up."

"Why?" Jungkook stood up, that silly smirk etched on his lips once again. "She has a girlfriend by
the way."

Taehyung got up as well, tilting his head in confusion. "Huh? Who?"

"Yeri. She has a girlfriend. So- she wasn't flirting with me."

Taehyung scoffed, pushing him forward, so he would finally start moving. "I didn't ask and I
certainly didn't think that. I don't care."

"Yeah sure- I think you are relieved now, though." Jungkook laughed, walking in front of him
while they headed out of the cafe. "And for all it's worth, you are my type as well- from a visual
point of view, obviously. "

Brat.

Taehyung felt his cheeks heating up as he lifted his leg, lightly kicking Jungkook's butt. "Shut it,
will you?!"

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

This chapter feels like a mess- bear with me And thanks for reading! Talk to me if
you want
 Chapter 11
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Something had changed in their relationship. Jungkook was not able to tell what and how, but
something had been added to their friendship. Since Taehyung had stumbled back into his life a
month ago, it had been quite the emotional ride. Apart from bickering all the time, they also started
flirting with each other. It was playful and light and Jungkook had gotten used to it by now.

He was glad that Lin hadn't made an appearance once again because Jungkook had turned into a
protective warrior when anyone would even stand too close to Taehyung. He couldn't turn it off. It
was not his fault that shameless guys would ogle at his friend whenever they'd go.

Jungkook got up from the leg machine, heading toward the heavy boxing bag. It was late on a
Sunday evening and he was at the gym. He liked to do his workout at this time of the day because
not a lot of people were around. Before he could put on the boxing gloves, his phone vibrated in his
pocket. It was Taehyung.

"Hey Tae, what's up?"

"Hi. Where are you?"

"I am at the gym, why?"

"Do you want to join me for a late dinner somewhere? I am hungry and Jimin is not home and I
don't like to cook."

Jungkook chuckled. There were no other people in the boxing area so he sat down on the bench. "I
am at the gym right now and you are talking about food?"

"So? You don't have to eat, then. Just give me some company."
Brat.

"Fine. You can come and get me later. But I just started boxing, so give me some time."

"Alright. Alright. I will come in a bit and pick you up, then."

"See you and don't take the dark alley." Jungkook shoved his phone back into his pocket, grabbing
the boxing gloves to put them on. He knew that Taehyung had a gym membership as well, but his
friend always had an excuse whenever Jungkook would ask to join him. But he liked Taehyung the
way he looked right now. He shouldn't gain more muscles. He was too cute for big muscles.

Not many minutes had passed before Taehyung came, strolling into the boxing area. He halted in
his step when he spotted Jungkook and let out a yelp. "Kookie! Yah! What the- why are you
shirtless?" he hissed while pulling off his coat, throwing it on the bench beside him.

"I am exercising. Why should I wear a shirt? It is hot." Jungkook looked at Taehyung through the
mirror and smiled. His friend looked soft, wearing a fluffy blue sweater. His soft curls were
unkempt, making him look like he had just rolled out of bed. Everything was so soft about him.
"And you are way too early. I told you to give me some time, didn't I?"

"Ten minutes should be enough time."

Jungkook scoffed but then he noticed Taehyung's stare. He decided he liked his friend's eyes on his
body. For whatever crazy reason he liked the way Taehyung was subtly checking him out. "Do you
love what you see? It seems you are not that bothered by me, being shirtless, after all, huh?"

"Just shut up. You are too full of yourself, seriously." Taehyung scoffed. "Isn't there something like
a gym policy? Isn't there a dress code, saying that you are not allowed to work out half-naked?" he
asked, crossing his arms in front of his chest, staring back at Jungkook through the mirror.

"I don't know, Tae. You tell me. You own a gym membership as well in case you have already
forgotten that," Jungkook teased with a chuckle. "And I am the only one in the boxing area right
now, so I guess it is fine. I am-" he trailed off, watching Taehyung through the mirror, noticing his
open mouth. "What is it?"
"Wait. Don't turn around." Taehyung got up, his eyes fixed on Jungkook's back as he stepped right
behind him. "What is-"

"Do I have something on my back?" Jungkook asked as he couldn't see Taehyung in the mirror
anymore, the latter's body and face now completely hidden behind him.

Taehyung ran his fingertips over Jungkook's lower back, caressing the skin there. "This- this
tattoo."

"Which one? The lotus flower?" Jungkook asked, though there was only one tattoo on his back.
Heat spread across his skin from Taehyung's gentle touch and he resisted the urge to shudder with
pleasure.

"Yes. It is mi- I mean, I remember drawing one on your arm that day."

You remembered it.

"You did." Taehyung's warm breath on his skin made Jungkook's hair stand up on his forearms.
Biting his lip, he decided to turn around to face Taehyung. He waited until his friend looked up at
him and met his gaze. There was almost no space between them but neither of them moved.
Jungkook didn't want to move, he wanted to stay close to Taehyung. It just felt right. "It was my
first tattoo. As soon as I turned 18, I went to the parlor."

Taehyung gulped visibly, a slight blush spread across his cheeks. He stared at Jungkook's chest
before raising his gaze. "Does it have a special meaning to you?" he whispered in an uncertain
voice.

"Do you really need to ask? Of course, it does, Tae," Jungkook breathed, unsure why they were
whispering but it felt right at that moment.

"Which meaning does it have?"

As if you don't already know.

Jungkook reached out to push a stray lock of hair out of Taehyung's eyes but he was still wearing
the gloves, so he lowered his hand again. "I wanted something that would remind me of you. That
day you drew the flower on my arm was the day where everything went wrong, so it always had a
sad meaning, too. But on the other side- the flower was something that reminded me of you and it
was the best motive I could choose at that time."

"But why did you need something that would remind you of me in the first place?" Taehyung
asked in a pout. "We haven't seen each other for years when you turned 18. Why would you-"

"Because you were my family back then, my only family. You kind of still are. And I already told
you that I have never forgotten you and missed you like crazy after I left. So- even after those 3, 4
years, I still wanted to-"

Taehyung didn't wait for Jungkook to finish but wrapped his arms around him, pulling him close
against his body. He let out a shaky breath. "Why are you like this, huh? Do you want to make me
cry again?"

"No, I don't want that." Jungkook was surprised by Taehyung's sudden emotional outburst and the
tight hug. "Hey, I am all sweaty and you-"

"I don't give a fuck about that."

"Don't curse," Jungkook mumbled into Taehyung's hair, smelling his shampoo, inhaling his
familiar scent. He felt like home.

Taehyung slapped him on the back."You are the one who is causing me to curse. It is your fault,
idiot. And why are you so sweet all of a sudden?" he whined cutely.

Endearing.

Jungkook chuckled, wrapping an arm around Taehyung's tiny waist, keeping him close. "Just admit
that you wanted to hug me while I am bare-chested," he joked to lighten the mood because he
definitely didn't want to make his friend cry again.

"Shut up!" Taehyung said with a snort before pulling away, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I
love the tattoo by the way. A lot. It looks good on you."
I never would have imagined that you will see it one day.

"Thank you for the inspiration," Jungkook replied with a smile. He could tell that Taehyung
wanted to say something else but he held back. Instead, he stretched before creating some distance
between them.

"So- are you done working out? I am really hungry."

Seeing Taehyung's eyes light up with mischief, made Jungkook want to tease him a bit. "No, I am
not done because someone was distracting me. And I also need to take a shower before we leave."

Taehyung's expression turned into disbelief. "Seriously? You want me to wait here for you?"

Jungkook shrugged, hiding his smile. He loved teasing him. "Well, you could exercise as well for
a change. You know- you are paying for your membership, after all, so you should at least use it
once a month."

"Shut up! I am not dressed for the gym as you can see."

Jungkook almost cooed at him. Why was he such a cute, adorable sulking human? "You can
workout shirtless," he joked though he would never allow that- not in the gym where any pervert
could wander in any time.

"As if! So that you can compare your big muscles with my baby fat? Never."

Jungkook pulled off his boxing gloves, throwing them into the corner before approaching his
friend. He knew that he wouldn't get more exercise done tonight anyway. Not with that guy in front
of him, currently glaring at him playfully. Jungkook nudged his belly.

"Yah, don't touch my soft tummy."

"Listen to me. You are pretty. I would never compare you to myself or anyone else. You are
perfect, got it?"

Taehyung opened his mouth in surprise. He probably hadn't been prepared to hear those sweet
words. He pushed him. "Stop flirting with me, you menace. And go take a shower now. You can
work out tomorrow again if you want. I don't want to die of hunger while waiting for you. Got it?"

"Fine." Jungkook smiled, not commenting on Taehyung's blush. "I don't want you to die-
obviously." He let his gaze wander down Taehyung's body, confidently tonguing his cheek. "Do
you want to help me shower since you are here or-"

"Jeon Jungkook! Shut up!"

‿ ‿

"Hey, don't you have a test tomorrow?" Hobi asked as they were hanging on the sofa, watching
some random movie.

"Yes, why?" Jungkook asked before taking a sip of his coke.

"I didn't see you study for it at all."

Jungkook rolled his eyes at him. "Alright, dad. Thanks for looking out for me."

"No, seriously, why won't you study? All you do these days is hanging out with Taehyung."

"That is not even true."

Hobi scoffed. "Yeah, sure. Whatever. You should just admit that you are into him and go."

Jungkook hit his adoptive brother's shoulder with the remote. "Don't talk bullshit."
"I know you, bro. Those sparkling eyes you have whenever you mention him is something else.
You-"

"Shut up, will you? I got my best friend back and we are just happy to spend time with each other
again. It doesn't mean that I am into him." Right?

"Whatever." Hobi sighed. "Just don't forget to study because of your friendship.

Jungkook wanted to comment on the other's meaningful tone but his phone started to vibrate on the
table. Taehyung's name lit up on the display.

"Well, speaking of the devil."

"Shut up," Jungkook grabbed his phone and stood up, not wanting Hobi to eavesdrop. It was weird
for Taehyung to call him right now. He should be at work. Jungkook prayed that his friend wasn't
calling because Lin had come to the bookstore once again as he headed for his room, closing the
door behind himself. "Tae, what's up?"

"Kookie." Taehyung's voice sounded upset.

"Where are you? What happened?" Jungkook was instantly alarmed, ready to rush out of the room
and head to the bookstore.

"I am at work."

"Are you alright? Do you need me to come? Please don't tell me that this asshole ca-"

"Kookie, my mother visited me at the bookstore today."

Jungkook opened his mouth and closed it again. He was relieved. He had not expected that
harmless information. "Your adoptive mother came? Okay. That's good- or not?"

"Not my adoptive mother, Kook. My real mother."

 ..to be continued

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

Thoughts?

Always appreciating every Kudo and comment. Thank you so much!

 Chapter 12
Chapter Notes

I don't know if this chapter needs a warning but please be aware that it contains
parental issues and mention of abortion.

See the end of the chapter for more notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Taehyung was nervous, nibbling his lip while looking out the window, watching the passing
scenery. He was on a train, heading to the eastern point of the area to visit his mother on a Sunday
afternoon. His real mother. Taehyung had no idea if it was the right thing to do and follow her
invitation but he was curious and wanted some answers. He had been shocked when she had
appeared in the bookstore a few days ago, telling him who he was. Taehyung had assumed that it
was a bad joke, planned by Jimin or his uncle but when he had taken a closer look at that woman,
he had been able to tell that she was telling the truth. She had the same uneven eyelids and
matching moles on her nose and lip. That couldn't have been a coincidence.

"Are you okay?" Jungkook was sitting next to him, eyes searching his face.

Taehyung had asked Jungkook to accompany him because he was very nervous and it was a two-
hour train ride, so he didn't want to be alone. He could have asked Jimin as well, but since
Jungkook had a similar background, Taehyung believed that he'd understand him a little better in
that kind of situation. "I am fine, I guess. Just a bit nervous."

"I bet you are. She left you when you were a year old and then, 21 years later, she magically
appears out of nowhere at your workplace without telling you how she found you. That is very
suspicious if you ask me."

Taehyung turned his head to face his friend. "I am sure she will explain everything when I visit
her. So I guess I will be smarter afterward."

"Still suspicious," Jungkook mumbled with a yawn. "I am glad you asked me to accompany you
though because who knows what will happen there. Maybe she is some weird woman who lurks
pretty boys like you to-"
Taehyung had to laugh at Jungkook's expression. He slapped his thigh. "You are stupid. You watch
too many movies, seriously."

Jungkook puffed out his cheeks before shaking his head. "We should watch one together, too. And
I am still glad to go there with you. I will keep a close eye on that woman, don't worry."

"You don't have to keep an eye on her. She is not dangerous," Taehyung said amused, being happy
that Jungkook was with him. He had gotten used to him very fast within the past month. It was like
they had never been separated in the first place.

"You never know, Tae. Have you ever heard of witches who change their appearance to-"

"Shut up," Taehyung said with a laugh. "What are you? 5? Do you still believe in fairy tales?"

Jungkook put his hand to his mouth and gasped exaggeratedly. "Wait- you don't?"

"Idiot." Taehyung chuckled and snuggled his head into his friend's neck, inhaling his scent that
would always calm him. Jungkook felt like home. Right now Taehyung didn't mind where he was
as long as the other was with him. "Thank you, Kookie."

"For what?"

"For coming with me. For trying to make me laugh and make me feel better. I appreciate it."

Jungkook leaned his head on his for a moment before mumbling genuinely, "Anytime, Tete."

‿ ‿

When they walked out of the train, it felt like they stepped into a new world. The town station was
very old and it actually looked like a wreck. The village was ancient and the roads were winding
and very narrow.

Jungkook whistled. "Look at this place. Do they even have internet here?" he murmured as they
were heading for the location, Taehyung's mother had given him.

"It looks peaceful," Taehyung mumbled as they were walking past tiny houses and green fields on
their left.

"Yeah, right- It is always peaceful before a sick killer jumps out from behind a tree and swings a
machete."

Taehyung threw his head back and laughed. "Seriously, what is wrong with you today? Don't
worry, I will protect you if someone wants to kill your cute ass."

"Cute ass, huh?" Jungkook repeated in a teasing voice before turning his head. He then grabbed
Taehyung's wrist, pulling him towards him when a trio of cyclists passed them, ringing their bells.
"I think we both know by now that you are the one who needs to be protected," he said with a wink
before letting go of him.

Taehyung scoffed embarrassed but secretly liked that Jungkook watched out for him. He felt
special and valued.

"How much longer do we need to walk?"

Taehyung looked at the navigation on his phone. "We should be there in a minute. Looks like she
lives right next to the cliffs, huh?" he said, pointing to his left.

"Great. I love the cliffside."

Taehyung faced Jungkook and titled his head in surprise. "I would have never thought that you
love something like this."

"Why not? Am I too good-looking and too well-built to take a walk outside and appreciate nature?"

"Just shut up, you are talking nonsense since we met today," Taehyung replied with a chuckle but
halted when they arrived at the last house in the street which was right next to the cliffs. He could
hear the waves hitting the rocks below them as the wind was blowing into their faces.
"Is it this one?"

"Yes," Taehyung breathed, suddenly feeling nauseous. What was he doing here? He wasn't ready.
What if she would tell him something that-

"Wow, she must be rich to afford living in such a- Hey, why are you walking back?" Jungkook
asked, grabbing Taehyung's wrist to keep him in place.

Taehyung stared at him with widened eyes. He was suddenly too nervous and the thought of
talking to his real mother was making him anxious. "I don't know if I can do it, Kookie. I- I am, it's
weird and what if she-"

"Hey, hey, Tete. Look at me." Jungkook cupped his chin and urged Taehyung to lock eyes with
him. "I am with you, alright? We go inside her fancy looking house and you can listen to whatever
she has to say. The second something is going to feel off or you will feel scared or whatever- you
just tell me and we leave instantly, okay?"

Taehyung took a deep breath to calm his nerves. He was thankful that Jungkook was here- he made
all of this bearable. "Okay. But please stay with me, alright?"

"I will. Let's go," Jungkook reassured him, wrapping his arm loosely around Taehyung's shoulder
as they started walking towards the red door.

Before they could ring the bell, Taehyung's mother was already coming outside, smiling at him.
She was wearing a yellow dress and her hair was styled like she stepped off the pages of some
magazine. "Oh, hello. I wasn't sure if you would really come but I am glad." She turned her eyes on
Jungkook and her expression hardened. "And you brought someone with you?"

"Yes, that's Jungkook." Taehyung glanced at his friend and then back at the woman who was
calling herself his mother. "He is family." It felt so right to say that.

"Alright. Hello Jungkook, nice to meet you. You can call me Ana."

"Hi."
"You can wait here or go for a walk until we-"

Taehyung shook his head eagerly. "No, no, he is coming with me. No matter what we are going to
talk about, I would tell him later anyway."

Ana closed her mouth and nodded, obviously not amused by that. "Alright, as you wish. Then
follow me inside, please."

Jungkook placed his hand on Taehyung's back as they entered the house. His friend was calm and
that gave Taehyung a lot of comfort. They followed Ana into a spacious living room. Taehyung
spotted a huge bookshelf but it was not the time to look around. His eyes turned on his mother who
was motioning them to sit on the sofa.

"So, do you want to ask me something?"

What a question.

"How did you know where to find me?"

Ana smiled, throwing one leg over the other. "A friend of mine lives in your city. She loves going
to the bookstore you are working at. She's in her fifties but she would always gush about that one
handsome store clerk and-"

Jungkook cleared his throat. "I told you," he muttered under his breath, winking at him, probably
trying to loosen the mood. "Someone wants to lure you-"

"Stop it!" Taehyung showed him his tongue before turning his eyes back at Ana. "Sorry for that.
Pease continue."

"So- one day my friend tried to explain to me how this great store clerk looks exactly like me. She
told me that he could be my son. I thought she was messing with me but then she informed me
about the uneven eyelids and the same eye shape, which is very unique as you probably know. And
when she told me your name, every doubt was gone."
Taehyung shifted in his seat. Something inside him was still making him anxious. He couldn't tell
if he was unhappy or annoyed, if he should leave right now or stay and continuing listen to her.
"Why did you give me away if I am so unique?" he asked the most important question.

Ana's expression turned into something unreadable. "Well, I was young. I was alone. Your dad- I
don't even know who he is so you don't need to ask me about him. I was in my best years and had
some fun with different men, so- yeah. Abortion was not an option for me, so I gave birth to you.
You were a beautiful baby boy- that's why I wanted to keep you in the first place. You still are very
attractive by the way- just like me."

What the fuck? Why's that important right now?

Taehyung felt his throat tightening. He suddenly didn't want to listen to her anymore. Everything
Ana was saying, was irritating him. He needed some air. "What has my appearance to-"

"You know, I tried to raise you but I was alone, with no parents to help me, no siblings. I couldn't
do it on my own," Ana interrupted him in a monotonous voice, sounding as if she had memorized a
script. "I needed my freedom and I wanted to give you a better life so it was a win-"

"Giving me a better life? You threw me away, like garbage, in front of an orphanage. It was winter.
They told me that I had been ice cold when someone finally found me by accident," Taehyung
snapped at her. Out of the corner of his eyes, he noticed Jungkook gaping at him. He had never
told his friend about that night before. "I could have died, mother and you wouldn't even know."
You wouldn't have cared.

Ana cleared her throat, scratching her neck with her red fingernails. She didn't seem bothered by
Taehyung's little outburst. "I was 20 and I didn't know what else to do. I just had to-"

"I am 22 right now and I would never drop a baby in front of an orphanage and leave, not knowing
if it will survive or not. You didn't even ring the doorbell before leaving me there in the cold."
Taehyung was getting furious, his emotions boiling up inside him. He shouldn't have come here.

"Look- I did what I did. We can't change the past, can we?" Ana said with a raised eyebrow. "And
you survived. You are doing well- you look healthy and you are so handsome. I bet you could be a
model. Have you applied at some agencies before?"
Model? Agencies?

Taehyung felt like vomiting. No one could have prepared him for a conversation like this one.
They were meeting for the very first time and she had nothing better to talk about apart from his
good looks, given by her? Taehyung was so disappointed in that woman. He took a deep breath,
trying to stay calm while Jungkook cursed under his breath. "Why didn't you try to contact me
before?"

"Since I gave you away the way I did, I didn't have the right to contact you until you would be 18."

Taehyung wondered if she even felt sorry but it didn't seem like it. Ana was sitting in front of him,
calm and collected, with no emotion on her face- like she was telling a story about someone else's
life. "Why did you want me to come here, Ana?"

"What a stupid question. You are my son."

I am not your son.

Taehyung noticed her hardening jaw, her tone was getting bitter. She didn't even want him here, it
was as clear as day. "Do you know what I think? You just want to calm your conscience or
something like that. That is all. You don't even feel sorry for what you did. You don't care about
me at all."

"Come on. It is not like that. I do care, obviously. Why would I invite you to come here?" Ana
smiled but it didn't reach her eyes. "And I am just so happy that you turned out to be so very
handsome. Look at you. My genes are the best, huh?" She laughed but no one joined her. "So- tell
me about your life in the orphanage. Did you make some friends?"

Seriously?

Taehyung wanted to cry. He could have done without meeting such a cold-hearted woman, calling
herself his mother. She wasn't interested in him, just chit-chatting as if he was a friend from school.
Taehung had enough. They could have spend their Sunday way better than sitting here with her. "I
want to go now."

Ana frowned, her expression showed displeasure. "What? You literally just came."
Taehyung needed to leave this place. He didn't want to cry in front of her but he started to feel
emotional. But she didn't deserve his tears. "I want to go now," he repeated with pleading eyes,
glancing over to his friend who looked as flabbergasted as Taehyung felt.

"Okay, get up. We are leaving," Jungkook said, reacting instantly as he had promised before. He
stood up and grabbed Taehyung's wrist, pulling him along. "Let's go."

"Why are you leaving? I didn't say anything wrong! Are you huffy now? You are old enough. You
should be able to handle hearing stuff like that."

"I am not huffy, I am disappointed. And I have heard enough. I shouldn't have come here."

Ana chuckled spitefully. "I can tell that you haven't been raised by someone, Taehyung. Snapping
like that is very impolite. I am your mother, your only family and-"

Hypocrite.

Jungkook stopped walking and turned around, throwing daggers at her while tightening his hold on
Taehyung's wrist. "You should stop talking now, lady. You showed your real self already, don't
lose your face for good." He moved again but before they were out of the room, he turned around
once again. "And you are not his family. You don't deserve him and I am glad that he wasn't raised
by such a cold-hearted, unpleasant woman. Oh, and one more thing- he has a family."

"Leave my house, you unthankful brats."

"No need to tell us twice. I hope we won't see each other again," Jungkook hissed at her before they
walked through the door.

Taehyung let himself be pulled outside, his legs shaky. What had happened just now? This woman
was his real mother? He felt a tightening in his throat once again and pulled away from Jungkook's
grip, running down the driveway, heading for the cliffs. He needed to get away from that house.
Tears were pooling in his eyes and threatened to fall any second. His mother was an insensitive,
bitter person, appeased with the fact that she had a handsome son. That's it. She didn't care about
anything else. Taehyung had not expected much but whatever that had been, was hard to accept. A
sob escaped his throat when he stopped running, standing at a safe distance to the edge of the cliff,
taking deep breaths.
"Tete." Jungkook was suddenly behind him but didn't get closer, giving him space. "I am here if
you need me, okay? But if you want to be alone, that's fine, too. I just want to make sure that you
are okay."

"Am I going to be like her someday? Uncaring, cold, not giving a shit about my children?"
Taehyung asked no one in particular, staring off into the distance while the sharp wind was almost
hurting his face.

"No. No. You are the complete opposite of her. You will never be like that woman, believe me.
Sorry but she is a bitch. She just wants you like a trophy, nothing else. You are way out of her
league."

The comfort and warmth in Jungkook's voice made Taehyung even more emotional. He realized he
was crying, tears were slipping down his face as if they had a will of their own. "Can you please
hold me?"

Jungkook didn't reply but instead, closed the distance and wrapped his arms around Taehyung from
behind, pulling him against his chest. Jungkook's mouth was next to his ear when he whispered,
"You are so precious and she doesn't even deserve to call you her son."

Taehyung leaned into his body, closing his eyes for a second. Jungkook's body was not only
shielding him from the cold wind but also from any emotional harm. Taehyung felt safe in his
arms. It was like the pain just melted away and everything was right for a short moment. "I am
glad that I met her. Now I know who she is and that I don't have to be sad about the fact that I grew
up without a mother. It is just- I, I mean, and how could, how can someone play with the life of her
baby like that. Is she, is she even-" Taehyung trailed off, realizing he was a stuttering mess.

"I know. It's okay, Tete. Take a deep breath. I am sorry that she is like that," Jungkook whispered
against his cheek, warm lips touching Taehyung's cold skin. "I really wished she had no other
choice back then and that she would be as kind-hearted and loveable as you. Fuck- before coming
here, I wished so much that you two would get along. I know I had been joking earlier about her,
being a witch but that was just to make you less nervous. Please know that I want you to be happy
and it breaks my heart that she turned out to be like that."

You make me happy.

Taehyung turned around in Jungkook's arms, staring into his big doe eyes which were looking at
him with concern and affection. The realization hit him hard. "I am happy."

"Hmm?"

"I am happy." Taehyung reached out, pushing a loose strand of hair behind Jungkook's ear before
the wind caught it again. "You make me happy. The day you came into my life, everything
changed. Your arrival in that stinky orphanage brought me so much happiness, hope and joy. I
even forgot how it felt to be lonely."

Jungkook's hands were still at Taehyung's waist, his gaze steady on his face. "What are you
saying?"

"I just realized that I never had the urge to meet my real parents after I have met you. It was like- as
if you have filled that gap in my heart mysteriously." Taehyung smiled and dashed a hand
across his eyes to brush away the tears blurring his vision. He wanted to see Jungkook's reaction.
"And one month ago, when you stumbled back into my life with your dumb tattoos and pretty face
and sweet personality- at least most of the time, I just feel like I am complete again, you know? I
don't need her. I never had a real mother in the first place. I have always only had you. You are my
only family. And you were wrong that day at the fair," Taehyung added, saying everything that
was on his heart now without the fear what Jungkook could think. He trusted him. "You said I was
better off without you. That's not true."

"Are you falling in love with me?"

What?

Taehyung felt the heat rising to his cheeks. He slapped Jungkook's chest. "Yah! What are you
saying? I am telling you how thankful I am to have you in my life and you are joking around?" he
replied though the other's question caused butterflies to flutter deep in his stomach. "Idiot."

Jungkook chuckled. "I know. I am sorry. You know that I am bad with feelings. But your words
warmed my heart. And I am very happy to have you in my life as well. You know that." He paused,
biting his lip. "Let me show you something."

Taehyung panicked when Jungkook suddenly started to push him back, closer towards the edge.
"Yah, w-what are you doing? Do you want to throw me off the cliff? I am scared of heights,
Kookie," he whined, gripping at the sleeve of Jungkook's jacket.
"I know. I know. Just turn around, I am holding you, alright? Let me- let me show you something."

"But what?" Taehyung was confused but he was also curious. He let go of Jungkook's jacket and
turned around in his embrace, placing both his hands on Jungkook's arm which was now wrapped
around his waist securely.

"You will see. We are still not close enough. Move forward."

What?

"Are you crazy? We will both die."

"Come on. Don't you trust me?"

Taehyung scoffed but made another hesitant step forward with Jungkook right behind him. As he
felt the warmth of his friend's breath on his nape, a shiver went through Taehyung that had nothing
to do with his fear of heights. "Unfortunately, I do trust you, brat."

"Good. I hope you can see it. Lean forward so you can look down. I will hold you."

Normally Taehyung would snap and call Jungkook names for telling him to do something scary
like that but right now- he didn't even care anymore. He was too sentimental. "Don't let go," he
mumbled and leaned forward, feeling Jungkook's arm tightening around his waist. Taehyung dared
to look down the cliff and at first, he had no idea what he should pay attention to. But then he
spotted hundreds of seagulls, flying in a seemingly endless parade from the sea towards the coast.

"Do you see something?"

"Yes, there are so many seagulls."

"Seagulls?" Jungkook hummed behind him. There was a beat of silence before he continued. "Do
you know- so many people hate seagulls, but, but I find them very fascinating. I mean- the cliffs
 are dangerous and the wind is so fucking strong but you can always see how they fight against it.
They don't even give a shit about the fact that they could have a more peaceful life somewhere
else. I like their mentality."

Taehyung didn't understand Jungkook's point. He was confused. "Why are you telling me this?
That doesn't make any sense," he said honestly, turning back around to face him.

Jungkook gently wiped his cheeks before leaning closer, pecking his forehead. "I don't even know
why I said that. I just wanted to distract you with something I guess." He pulled back to look at
Taehyung, a sly smile appearing on his face. "To be honest, I just hoped you will see something
when you look down that cliff and you did- so I just improvised."

"You- what?" Taehyung started laughing. It was so ridiculous and strange, and laughing seemed
like the only reasonable thing to do right now. And it felt good. "Are you serious? Did you just tell
me some made-up bullshit about seagulls, making it sound like it has a deeper meaning and a
connection to my current situation- although there is none?" He had to laugh again at the absurdity,
slapping Jungkook's chest. "You are an idiot, seriously."

Jungkook chuckled with a sheepish grin before grabbing his hand. "And you are cold. We should
go eat something and warm up before heading back. Sounds good?"

Taehyung nodded with a smile, gone was his gloom because of Ana. Jungkook's distraction had
been successful. "Sounds great. I saw an Italian restaurant close to the station- probably the only
one around here."

"Let's go then."

..to be continued

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

What if there is no train going before the next morning though?

Thanks for reading! I hope the story is not too heavy. It will get lighter, I promise!
There is going to be a huge "progress" in the next chapter by the way

I would love to hear what you think about this.

 Chapter 13
Chapter Notes

See the end of the chapter for notes

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

After they had eaten they started walking towards the station, ready to go back home. Jungkook
was glad that Taehyung seemed to feel better again. He had tried everything to distract his friend,
making him laugh, telling nonsense. He was so mad at Taehyung's mother, had struggled to keep
silent during their chatter. He had wanted to yell at her, insulting her for being such a fucked up
person. But he had stayed calm for Taehyung's sake because he knew that his friend had needed it.

"You can wait here, I will check the timetable," Taehyung said, heading for the signboard. "I hope
there is a train coming soon."

"I wouldn't be surprised if there won't be another train till the next morning in this shit place,"
Jungkook joked before yawning loudly. He was tired. It had been an exhausting day.

"Fuck."

"Don't curse. What is it?"

Taehyung turned around, staring at him with widened eyes. "You were right."

"About what? What do you mean?"

"No train for tonight."

Jungkook scoffed and chuckled, not falling for his joke. "Yeah, right."

"I am serious, Kook. Come here and check for yourself. The last one left fifteen minutes ago."
"Stop messing around," Jungkook muttered before heading in his direction, glancing at the
timetable himself.

Well, fuck.

"Seriously? This shithole is really something else." Jungkook looked at his watch. "It is only 8.05
o'clock. How could that be?"

"It is Sunday. Maybe that's the reason." Taehyung sighed, shoving his hands deep into the pockets
of his coat. "The next train is coming tomorrow morning at 7.30." He glanced at Jungkook with a
guilty expression on his face. "I am so sorry. I should have checked the times of the trains
beforehand."

Jungkook shook his head and reached out, patting Taehyung's soft curls. "It is not your fault. You
had other things on your mind. I could have checked the times, too. Don't worry." He took a look
around and sighed. "We just need to find a place to stay the night."

"I could ask Ana and-"

Jungkook turned his eyes back on his friend, frowning. "No. Forget it. You will not ask her for a
favor. That woman makes you sad and I am not letting her close to you again."

Taehyung chuckled, playfully bopping Jungkook's nose with his finger. "Why? Aren't you too
possessive right now?"

"Do you think there is something like a hotel in this place?" Jungkook asked, ignoring Taehyung's
teasing.

"I don't think so. I saw a motel sign though. It was close to the restaurant."

Jungkook grimaced. "A motel? People are getting murdered in places like this."

Taehyung laughed, hooking his arm through his. "Don't start again, Kook. Let's go find it. I am
tired."
"Fine. Let's go. But don't you need to work tomorrow?"

"Uncle is used to me, coming late for work. That's okay," Taehyung explained when they walked
back the road they came from. "What about you? No courses tomorrow morning?"

Jungkook shrugged. "Nah, I am good. I can miss a day. I am smart enough."

"Wow, big muscles and being smart. You are a rare species, huh?"

"Shut up. I know that you love my body."

Taehyung scoffed. "Says who?"

Jungkook smirked but then his eyes fell on the motel sign right in front of them. "There. The motel
should be 300 meters to our left. Look at that- the neon sign seems to be the most modern thing in
this shithole."

Taeyhung chuckled, keeping close to him as they turned into a dark alley. He sighed after a beat of
silence. "I guess you were right about the murder thing," he mumbled, his arm brushing
Jungkook's.

"I was just messing with you. I am sure it is okay." Jungkook wrapped his arm around Taehyung's
shoulder instinctively. He wasn't sure if the other was joking or if he was scared for real. Maybe
both.

The deserted motel was fine after all. It looked a bit shabby but it would have to do. As soon as
they entered, Jungkook's eyes fell on an old man sitting at the reception, reading a newspaper. "Hi,
we need two rooms, please."

Taehyung pinched his arm lightly to get his attention. "Wait- one room is enough."

The receptionist glanced up at them, his eyes widening. He seemed surprised to see someone
coming into the motel at all. He straightened up. "Hello, guys. We only have single rooms, I am
afraid."

Taehyung let out a sigh, resting his elbow on the counter. "Do you have a single room with two
beds maybe?"

"No. But we have single rooms with double beds. Do you want one of those?"

Taehyung looked at Jungkook with a shy smile. "Is it okay if we share a room?" he asked with
meaningful eyes. "We can save money and-"

"Yes, sure. We take one room together," Jungkook said, understanding that his friend didn't want
to be alone.

The receptionist nodded, putting a paper on the table. "Great. Fill this form out for me, please."

‿ ‿

The room was cleaner than Jungkook had expected. It contained a double bed and a table, but it
was enough for one night. The only thing that bothered Jungkook was that he had to share the
room with Taehyung. After the exciting afternoon, he had now finally time to think- time to
rearrange his thoughts. And being in that small room together with Taehyung was suddenly too
much for him. A silence engulfed them but it was not peaceful. There was tension in the air.
Jungkook thought about the words Taehyung had said to him back at the cliffside. It had sounded
so much like a confession and it had taken everything in Jungkook not to cup Taehyung's face and
kiss him senseless. Jungkook cursed inwardly. Somewhere in between visiting Ana and entering
the motel- somewhere in between, he had realized that he was fucked. The affection and care he
felt for Taehyung weren't brotherly anymore. Something had shifted inside Jungkook but he hadn't
the time to analyze it yet.

"Do you want to wash up first?" Taehyung asked, his voice sounded shy. He sat on the bed,
playing with the hem of his sweater, looking adorable.

"Ah, yes, I will be right back," Jungkook mumbled, hastily rushing into the tiny bathroom. He
closed the door and leaned his back against it. Fuck. The tension was too much and they were both
awkward as fuck all of a sudden. Jungkook hated it so much but he wasn't sure if he was the only
one feeling it. "Get a grip on yourself, idiot," he mumbled, glaring at his mirror image. Then he
pulled off his sweater, sighing with relief that he had decided to put on an undershirt. At least he
wouldn't have to sleep bare chested which would make everything even more awkward. Jungkook
chose to keep his sweatpants on for several reasons and after washing up, he returned into the
room.

"Are you done?" Taehyung was hanging his coat on the door before turning around to look at
Jungkook. A gasp left his lips, his cheeks tinting slightly. "Oh- you are not wearing your sweater
anymore," he stated the obvious.

Jungkook liked the impact his body had on Taehyung but it was not the right time nor the right
place to tease him about it. He walked towards the bed, sitting down. "Yes, I can't sleep, wearing
it. It would be too hot. Normally I sleep without a shirt at all but-" he trailed off, feeling the tension
eating at him. He cleared his throat. "You can go wash up now."

"Yes." Taehyung hurried into the bathroom, his cheeks still blushing red.

Jungkook slammed his fist into the pillow, hating this awkwardness so much. Why had it turned
out like this all of a sudden? He blamed it on Ana. Yes, it was totally her fault. She was evil and
she had messed up his brain. Yeah, Ana was to blame for everything. Jungkook could live with that
solution. The only thing he couldn't live with was Taehyung, coming back into the room, wearing a
shirt that barely reached the middle of his thighs. That's it. No pants or shorts underneath. I am so
fucked. "W-what are you doing?"

"I am sorry but I- I can't sleep in those pants and since my shirt is long enough- I hope you don't
mind."

Jungkook's brain was malfunctioning. It was a mistake to look at Taeyhung. He knew it the minute
he allowed his gaze to move down to his bare legs. The sight did something to him he wasn't ready
to admit. "Yeah, yeah, it's fine. You just- surprised me, that's all."

"Alright." Taehyung smiled before hopping into bed, covering himself with the blanket. "You are
half-naked, too. So we are even."

Jungkook realized that the bed was smaller than it had looked, causing him to panic again. His
whole body was heating up.

"Have I already mentioned that I like your tattoos?" Taehyung asked, turning his eyes on
Jungkook's bare arm.

Stop it.

"Don't stare at me, pervert. And yes, you already told me that when you were drunk." Jungkook
laid down, closing his eyes, trying not to think about anything. "Sleep now." He had no idea if he
could hold back all those emotions if they would continue talking or looking at each other.

"What? So sudden? But the light is still on."

"Turn it off then," Jungkook retorted without opening his eyes, keeping them shut tightly. He
talked himself into believing that everything was better when he couldn't see Taehyung. But when
he felt someone hovering over him, he snapped his eyes open and almost choked on nothing. "W-
what are you doing?"

Taehyung was half straddling his lap while trying to reach something. "Well, the light switch is on
your side and I am not getting out of bed anymore," he replied stubbornly, still trying to reach the
switch.

"I will do it. Just get off me." In his panic Jungkook grabbed Taehyung's bare thighs, pushing him
off his body. His thighs were soft and warm and Jungkook was sure he would die because of a
heart attack or something else. "Sorry, I just wanted to-"

"I-it's fine," Taehyung mumbled, shifting away. "I shouldn't have surprised you like that."

Jungkook cursed inwardly, turning off the light with a sigh. He laid his head back on the pillow,
staring at the dark ceiling. Stupid idiot.

"Kookie, are you mad at me?"

Taehyung's voice sounded so vulnerable, that Jungkook wanted to beat himself up. He was acting
like a stupid teenager, creating this unnecessary awkward tension between them. He felt like an
idiot. "No, Tae. I am not mad at you." He paused, sighing softly. "I am just- tired." It was a lie but
what else could he have said? I think I am falling for you and can't stop thinking about your soft
legs? That wouldn't be smart to announce.
"Okay." Taehyung shifted around. "Do you know that this is the first time we are sleeping together
in the same bed?"

Please don't go there.

"When we were in the orphanage, we always wanted to fall asleep together but weren't allowed to,
so tonight it's the first time," Taehyung added softly.

"It is not."

Taehyung shifted in bed, probably to lie on his side, facing Jungkook in the dark. "What?"

"We slept in the same bed before, Tae."

"Huh? When? Why can't I remember?"

Jungkook closed his eyes. At least their chitchat was distracting him from his growing
overwhelming feelings. "It was the night before I left the orphanage. I couldn't sleep. I waited until
Mrs. Vi made her round and until everyone in our room was sleeping- including you." Jungkook
turned on his side as well. He could tell that Taehyung was close, the warmth was radiating from
him. "I snuggled into your bed and wrapped my arms around you." Jungkook smiled sadly,
remembering how awful he had felt that night to leave the most important person in his life. "I
hoped that you wouldn't feel or see me next to you, praying that you wouldn't wake up. I felt so bad
for everything."

"Kookie-"

"I just needed to hold you close to me one last time. I-I was sure that I would never see you again
and- Fuck, it still hurts to think about it."

Taehyung reached out his hand blindly, searching for Jungkook's. "It is okay. We are okay now,"
he whispered in a soft but thick voice, squeezing his hand.
Are we really?

Jungkook turned his palm up to intertwine their fingers. The urge to do or say something that
would take their relationship to another level was very strong. But he was scared to ruin everything.
He couldn't lose his friend again.

Taehyung suddenly shifted closer to Jungkook's side, his warm breath fanning over his cheeks. The
tension was palpable even in the dark. "Kookie."

"Hmm?"

"I-" Silence.

"What is it?"

"I am scared."

Jungkook tightened the hold on Taehyung's hand, pulling him closer instinctively until their knees
brushed. "Why are you scared? I am here."

"That's what scares me the most."

What?

"I don't understand."

"I am scared of what you make me feel."

Jungkook's heart threatened to jump out of his chest and throw itself out of the window. He felt his
hands getting sweaty but he wasn't ready to let go of the other. Was Taehyung feeling the same? Or
was he interpreting everything wrong? He started panicking, not knowing what to do.
"Kook,-"

Jungkook reached out, his hand fumbling a little because he couldn't see shit but it found
Taehyung's cheek eventually. He felt wetness on the other's skin, realizing that Taehyung was
crying. In that second Jungkook knew what he had to do. "Tae. Remember when we were at the
cliffside earlier and I asked you if you are falling for me?"

There was a beat of silence. "I remember."

"I asked you that question to tease you and lighten the mood, you know?" Jungkook continued,
feeling nauseous because of the words he was going to say next. He caressed Taehyung's cheek,
smoothing his thumb lightly across the skin. "The truth is- and I just realized it after we entered
this beautiful motel- the truth is- fuck, I am not good at this but IthinkIamfallinginlovewithyou."

That's it. It's out. Shit.

After a silence that felt too long, Taehyung's plush lips suddenly found Jungkook's despite the
darkness surrounding them.

Jungkook stilled, his brain not yet understanding what was happening- but when those sweet lips
started moving against his own, it hit Jungkook hard. Taehyung was kissing him. He was kissing
him after his poor confession. And it was like nothing Jungkook could describe. Just perfect.

Taehyung pulled away after a few seconds. "I am sorry, I couldn't help myse-"

Jungkook leaned in, silencing the other with his lips. He would be a moron and let that moment
pass without showing Taehyung how much he wanted this, too. Angling his head, Jungkook slid
his tongue inside, deepening the kiss, getting a satisfactory groan in return. That kiss made him feel
everything and that was terrifying. Jungkook pulled away when his lungs desperately needed more
air. "Tae, I, you-"

Taehyung fisted Jungkook's undershirt, pulling him in for another kiss. "I feel the same way,
Kookie. Don't worry," he breathed against his lips, voice low.

Jungkook captured his mouth again, nipping at Taehyung's lower lip, sucking at the plumpness of
it. The other's addictive lips stole Jungkook's mind and made his heart slam against his ribs. His
 hand left Taehyung's cheek, sliding down to his hip- and then he stopped and drew back. "Wait.
We- we should take it slow. I-I know what you are wearing or rather what you are not wearing
right now and-you know." Jungkook cursed inwardly. What was he even trying to say? He was
glad that the lights were off so Taehyung wouldn't see his flushed face.

Taehyung chuckled. "So- are you telling me that you would jump me like a hungry tiger if we
continue kissing?"

"You can bet your soft legs on it," Jungkook replied honestly, suddenly not feeling embarrassed
about it anymore.

Taehyung slapped his chest playfully. "I knew it! I caught you staring at them a little too often,
pervert."

"Shut up! You displayed your legs to lure me in- where was I supposed to look?"

"Yah, I did not!" Taehyung's fingers found Jungkook's chin and tilted it so he could kiss him again.
"And you could look at my eyes for a change," he replied in a teasing tone.

"I love your eyes," Jungkook mumbled back, already officially addicted to Taehyung's kisses. But
they were both tired and needed sleep. He wrapped an arm around the other's waist, pulling him
into his chest. "You should sleep now. The day must have been exhausting for you. We can talk
about this another time."

Taehyung sighed softly, snuggling closer into Jungkook's body. "The day still ended good for me.
Good night, Kookie."

Goodnight, baby.

︵‿︵‿ ‿︵‿︵

Chapter End Notes

The first kiss i hope it was the right moment?

 Let me know what you think, it motivates me.

End Notes

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