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Chapter Text

"Are you in love with me, Yoongi?"

"Who's that?" Yoongi asks, wrapping his arms around Jeongguk's waist.

"Hmm?" Jeongguk puts his phone back on the bedside table before turning his head to look at him. 

"Who wants to see you in the middle of the night, Gguk."

The light on Jeongguk side turns on. Blinding him for a second before an image of a confused Jeongguk greeted him. They mind their own business, that's the rule. 

Jeongguk is torn but, "Barom hyung," he replies after a short pause.

It sounds familiar, but Yoongi can't figure out where he heard the name. Suddenly, a hand touches his face, smoothing the furrowed eyebrows he doesn't know he's sporting.

"It's late."

"I know."

"Is it important, though?"

"I... I don't think so."

"Then stay."

Jeongguk stares at him. Questioningly.

"But I shouldn't impose myself on you..."

Yoongi's pulse quickens, the rule, his mind says again. But ignores it for some reason.

"I want you here."

And turns Jeongguk around, hooking his head on the younger's shoulder. Spooning him. Arms tightening. Like he's afraid the other will leave while he's asleep.

***

In the morning, while they are in the kitchen, preparing a quick breakfast before they both heads out for work, Jeongguk says... 

"You really need to stop sending me mixed signals, Yoongi."

Yoongi stares at Jeongguk and the scowl that adorns the younger's face but it's the eyes that catch Yoongi's attention every time. Jeongguk's pair of beautiful eyes are always bright, always shining like a cluster of stars lives there.

"And you're doing it again."

Doing what, he wants to ask but soon forgets when Jeongguk makes a face and Yoongi can't help the smile that tugs at the corner of his lips. Jeongguk will always be cute, whether he's happy or when he's pissed. And it does something to Yoongi's chest, all these sudden affections that swell inside him. "Doing what?" He remembers to ask after a beat, a small smile still gracing the side of his lips.

Jeongguk rolls his eyes, a little exaggerated but still adorable in a way. And fuck you, Yoongi. How whipped can you get?

"Looking at me like I am..." Jeongguk pauses then scrunches his face like thinking of a word, probably something to perfectly describe what he's feeling. Jeongguk is just too easy to read. Like an open-book. "...Everything." And huffs for the drama.

"The universe." It's an odd statement, Yoongi knows. It doesn't really make sense but in a way, it does. For him, at least.

Jeongguk frowns, perhaps wondering what the hell Yoongi's on but shakes his head and drops the subject. 

"You said you don't want this," Jeongguk says after a few seconds of silence as he vaguely gestures to the air between them, "but does the opposite." And then he's biting his lip, eyes locked on the counter in front of him. Yoongi wants Jeongguk to look back at him, misses the way those eyes sparkle like a thousand of fireworks constantly erupts there. But when the younger man finally looks back up, his eyes are challenging. "What am I been doing here, hyung? Spending the nights and playing house with you. Are we --" Jeongguk bites back.

Yoongi takes a deep breath, "I don't know," before recoiling from Jeongguk's personal space, stepping back for some air. This time he hangs his head low, refusing to meet those questioning stars. "I don't know why but I've taken a liking to waking up with you in my arms or hearing your voice first thing in the morning." I just want you here, what he doesn't add. "But it doesn't sit well with me, and it makes me mad, baby. Because I know I shouldn't... But the thought of another man seeing that side of you so vulnerable and soft and fucked in the morning," He sighs, shaking his head at the image. 

Fuck. That's the longest he'd ever let his feelings show. And it scares him, scares him that he feels so relieved having that out. 

"Are you in love with me, Yoongi?"

For Yoongi, it's the kind of question that isn't demanding for answers but rather a confirmation and maybe... maybe some assurance.

He looks up this time, meeting Jeongguk's softened features. God, he's so beautiful. He wants to kiss him so badly.

"I have no idea. But knowing that you go to someone else for comfort annoys the fuck out of me, Gguk. It's strange, but lately, I feel very possessive where you're concerned."

The slow stretches of lips to a full-blown smile disabled him of any thoughts and then it's all Jeongguk he can see.

The love that sparkles in Jeongguk eyes.

The galaxy of stars.

The universe. His...

Oh fuck.

"See mixed signals, but okay." Jeongguk says, still smiling. His cheeks a pretty shade of pink. Then he extends his hand for Yoongi to take like baring his heart out for the other didn't happen at all.

"Okay? What okay?"

"I heard you." Jeongguk replies as he laces his fingers with him. 

It's so warm and inviting that he finds himself tightening his hold around the warmth. And he knows it's stupid, he's not a teenager anymore but Yoongi can't fight the smile off his face. And the blush that sits high on his cheeks.

Chapter Text

Jeongguk often visits Yoongi in his studio, the Genius Lab.

He likes it there, enjoys watching his hyung work his magic over music, it doesn’t matter whether Yoongi is composing, doing arrangement or penning lyrics for his or their future album.

Jeongguk wishes to be someone like Yoongi, like the rap line hyungs who make their own music and produce well-made songs for the group and sometimes, even for others. He aims to produce a song that is good enough to be included in the next BTS’ mini-album too. That’s why he’s been bothering, as Yoongi seems to imply, the elder in his studio lately, trying to learn to mix and match beats or ask the elder’s advice and feedback regarding the sample he made the day/night before.

But for some reason, the pull of sleep always gets to him whenever he’s there. Falling asleep on the couch, sometimes lying down with his knees curled up, just to fit his length in that small of a space or with him sitting, his head tip forward, hands on his stomach, legs outstretched. He wonders why, it's not that he’s getting less sleep these days but maybe it has something to do with the calming vibe the place emits... or the low uttering of words Yoongi makes as he works.

It's oddly comforting. Being there. Feeling the couch on his back, the smell of scented-candles Yoongi likes to collect on the shelf, the beats and melodies playing in the background every now and then.

Jeongguk really likes it there. Maybe loves it even.

***

The sound of the bell and Yoongi’s grunt as he rises to his feet to get to the door, make the side of Jeongguk's face turn up a bit.

”Oh, of course, it’s you.” Yoongi says as he opens the door.

Jeongguk smiles, beaming and bright. Yoongi shakes his head at him but sends him a small smile of his own before he trudges back in front of his work computer. "Why?" Jeongguk says as he gently closes the door behind him. "Are you expecting someone else?” He moves to peek around Yoongi's shoulder, to see what's keeping the elder's busy. Yoongi doesn't seem to mind that he does, when usually he prefers to hold off showing any of his unfinished work to anyone. He doesn’t wait for Yoongi to respond though, "The others deemed this place off-limits. You scare them, hyung.” He pauses as he gets settled in on the couch. “Having the locks only make you more unapproachable."

A scoff is heard next, "And yet, you're here." but Yoongi’s tone is soft and no bite.

Jeongguk chuckles. The Past Jeongguk won’t even dare talk back to any of his hyungs, especially Yoongi. He’s shy like that. But things have changed. He’s more playful and jolly now. And a brat, as for Jimin.

"Well, you need human interaction at some point."

There’s a huff that distinctively Yoongi. It's the sound he makes with pouty lips and a nose crunch. Ahh, cute! But doesn’t say aloud. 

Something catches his attention though, the cup of Chinese takeouts on the table, long forgotten, has dampened Jeongguk’s happy vibe. He peaks at them and says, “You haven’t eaten much.”

Yoongi only hums, too focused on whatever he’s doing. Jeongguk pursed his lips at that. Yoongi is a stubborn man. The kind of guy who refuses to take a break, particularly if his muse is flowing freely and smoothly out of him. He won't stop until he’s done, or at least he deems the thing good enough. Until then, he will forgo the eating and taking care of himself. Jeongguk believes this problem has long been solved. Especially after getting a scolding from one their managers and a lecture from Bang PD-nim about self-care. But now, there are shampoo on Yoongi’s shelf, toiletries, and clothes to change into. Foods get delivered regularly, to make sure he’s eating on time, that he’s eating properly. But sometimes Yoongi still forgets about this, like now.

”How are things going so far?”

Yoongi doesn’t answer right away, but he leans his head in Jeongguk’s direction, acknowledging he heard him just fine. “I think I have something good here.”

Jeongguk nods, not that Yoongi can see him, and so he adds, “That’s great! I can’t wait to hear them.”

There’s a faint smile at the corner of Yoongi’s lips, but doesn’t say anything. 

A few seconds of silence pass between them before Jeongguk continues, “Then, come back here and finish this meal, hyung. Or I’ll eat them.”

Yoongi dismisses it with a wave of his hand. ”You can have them.” 

But Jeongguk shakes his head.

“Yoongi hyung.”

He says it gently, but it carries weight. A warning. 

Soon after, the music stops and Yoongi sighs. He turns to Jeongguk and stares at him for a second before silently drags his swivel chair in front of the small table by the couch. Then, Yoongi devours the takeouts fast and without further complaints.

Jeongguk chuckles, ”You’re gonna choke, hyung. Slow down, will you?" But Yoongi ignores him and continue inhaling the food as fast as he can. "Hey, if we lose a Genius producer such as you... BTS would fall!”

Yoongi snorts.

Jeongguk grins.

Yoongi has eaten almost everything, except some of the spicy chicken wings, in which the elder pushes towards Jeongguk. Eat, what he means. Grateful by his hyung's action, Jeongguk, in return, passes the bottled water to Yoongi. “Not bad, right?”

Yoongi rolls his eyes, hard and exaggerated, but comes off as funny and cute. “Well now, I’m too full to work.”

"Oh, come on! When has that stopped you?"

And they both laughed and all is good and right again with the world.

***

Looks like Jeongguk has fallen asleep again, because the next thing he knows he’s hearing the bell and Namjoon’s deep voice, asking, “Is that Jeongguk? No, don’t answer that. Who else visits you here, anyway?” A pause, like he’s considering his next words. “Guess, no one but Jeongguk!"

“But you’re here, I assume it’s me you’re here after.”

”I’m no visitor.”

”Whatever.”

“So this lodger of yours —”

"A welcome presence unlike some."

"Whoa. I feel like I should be offended by that but hey, this kid snore just as much as I do, and you ain’t complaining!"

"Oh come on, Joon. Let him sleep."

Namjoon snorts. When he speaks again, his tone is teasing. "You’re not supposed to play favoritism here, hyung."

Yoongi ignores the jab and asks instead, "If you ain’t here for anything, then go, let yourself out. You’re a nuisance.” But he’s smiling, Jeongguk can tell.

"Eyy, hyung!”

The friendly banter between the two has Jeongguk feeling light and happy. But he soon finds himself having a hard time keeping still and faking sleep,  especially when Namjoon leans and softly plays with his hair.

”You’ll wake him up. Stop it.”

“He looks like a baby like this, ain’t he, hyung? Ahh, I miss rooming with him. To think we all share the same dorm, but I hardly see this kid even there anymore.”

Yoongi doesn’t reply to that, neither Namjoon for a minute or two.

”Should stop hogging all his time, hyung.”

”What now?”

”Uh, nevermind. I gotta go! Have some quality time with your boy, Jeonggookie."

And then, Namjoon is gone.

Jeongguk can tell Yoongi goes back to work as though Namjoon dropping by didn’t happen.

No longer can pretend that he’s still asleep, he says, voice a little rough with disuse...

"Shall I start paying the rent then?"

When he opens his eyes, he’s surprised that Yoongi is already looking at him. But the light above Yoongi’s head makes it hard to read what’s going on on the elder’s mind. Then an almost soft smile plays on the side of Yoongi’s lips, his eyebrow arching just a little.

"You’re aware this room ain’t big enough for Golden Closet an—“

”So we need a better place then.”

”We?”

”Yeah, like lamb skewers and furniture business kind of We, hyung.” 

“Oh.”

”BigHit can lend us some space, if we ask.”

”Ah, yeah... You’re probably right. We should.”

Jeongguk smiles.

Heart beating, leaping, racing.

Chapter Text

Yoongi leans back in his chair and stretches his legs out, his back arching and cracking. He feels an ache as he does so, hips sore from sitting far too long. Or maybe because he is getting old. Hmm, probably both.

He has been working on a song but only making little progress here and there. It's for an indie artist his company is planning an official debut, some dude he can't remember the name of. He thinks it's a marketing tactic to catch the public's interest. He ain't just some producer anyway, he's SUGA. SUGA, who keeps making waves in the music industry, songs he either composed, produced or written always top the charts. Not that he minds it, using his name, that is. He'll be glad to help anyone achieve their dreams, but sometimes he wishes it isn't forced. 

He glances up to check the time, 3:07 AM, it reads.

He thinks of playing the unfinished song one last time but decides against it. That's enough for the day, come on, sleep, his mind supplies. And so he goes to save the file, in a folder labeled WORK ON IT, and turn his work-computer off. He's ready to leave and retire to his bed when a small figure catches his attention, stopping him on his track.

Tala. 

Damn Yoongi. How the hell you forgot Tala is here!

Saturdays are Seokjin's day. Always been that way since the twins are big enough to be taken outside, he says it's the only time he can be with his nieces. He's a busy man, working almost every day, keeping the family business running. It's his responsibility, he says, but family is family. You gotta make some time for them. Seokjin also adds, smugly, to consider his dates with the kids as his way to give the couple some alone time. Jeongguk had laughed at it, calling his brother a silly one, voice so fond that Yoongi retracts whatever he was gonna say. 

And yesterday was Saturday which means Luna and Tala went out with their Uncle Seokjin.

Yoongi remembers saying goodbye to the kids early this... oh, he means yesterday morning when Seokjin picks them up. 

"When is Gguk coming home?" Seokjin asks then, making small talk as if he doesn't know. There's never a day the brothers aren't talking, whether one of them is out of the country or not. Whether they get into an argument or not. Time is precious, Yoongi, don't waste them on some pathetic misunderstanding. Was the first thing Seokjin had said to him after the news came out of his engagement with Jeongguk. "I only have Jeongguk and he only has me. And for years, it's been like that for us. We're enough. But now he'll have you too, please take care of him."

Yoongi wishes Seokjin has someone who will take care of him as well.

"Monday before lunch, if there are no delays in flights." Yoongi replies, checking the girls' bags once more before passing them to Seokjin, who nods and says in his motherly voice, "I know you'll be in your studio the whole day we are out, so I got you some packed foods. EAT, okay?" Jeongguk isn't here to remind you, is what it sounds like.

Yoongi smiles, "I will, Mom."

And they are gone but not before the twins waving and sending him some flying kisses. His lips stretching involuntarily, what a bunch of dorks, he murmurs fondly.

Yoongi can't remember what time Seokjin drops his girls back at home, too distracted by the project he's been working since that morning. Luna is knocked out, exhausted from a day filled with excitement and fun, so Seokjin put her to bed. But Tala stays behind, still bouncy and energetic. She shyly asks him if she can watch Appa work and assures him she will be quiet and on her best behavior as he works. He says, of course, baby, and she kisses him on the cheek.

Now that Yoongi's mind has cleared a bit, he recalls hearing Tala humming in the background, her coloring book in front of her. They had a little talk, with Tala telling him how they spent their day. But work has soon filled his mind, momentarily forgetting Tala's presence, unaware that she fell asleep on the couch.

His poor starlight. Now, he feels awful. 

If Luna wakes up without Tala by her side, she won't be happy about it. So Yoongi rises on his feet, ready to take Tala back in her room. But the noise outside, from the living room more exactly, has stopped Yoongi on his track. The doors are locked, he always double check them but before he can dwell on that thought the door to his studio opens up.

And there is Jeongguk.

Big eyes and furrowed brows.

"Hyung, why are you sti--"

"Shh." And gestures to Tala.

Yoongi witness the change in Jeongguk's face. The younger looks dead tired but it's like seeing Tala has washed away every ounce of exhaustion in his body. His face lights up, his eyes soften. 

"Why is Tala here?" Jeongguk says as he enters the room, he gives Yoongi a small peck on the lips. It means, I'm home. "Where's Luna?"

He doesn't question why his husband is back too early, instead, he squeezes Jeongguk's hand, welcome back, what it translates. 

"Wanna hang out with me is all. Luna's asleep."

Jeongguk hums then crouch down to brush the hair back from Tala's face.

"Let's get her to bed." And Jeongguk carefully and so gently, pick Tala up, cradling her in his arms.

Yoongi goes to open the door and waits for them to pass before turning the lights off. As they silently move around the house, Tala kind of stirs, her eyes slowly opening. Jeongguk starts to hum, a lullaby he sings for the girls but Tala continues to stare at Jeongguk. And then a smile adorns her face, sweet and sleepy and, "Dada, you're here."

Jeongguk stops humming, his lips jutting out a bit, his face all soft and his eyes a little glassy. He leans to kiss Tala's head, humming yet again to lull her back to sleep, when she does, he turns to Yoongi.

"God, I love her."

Yoongi chuckles in response to that but seeing that moment got him a bit emotional. It gets him thinking, that his girls are growing up, that they are beginning to understand the concept of missing someone. They start asking where Dada is, what is he doing there, is he coming back, when? 

As Jeongguk is putting Tala in bed, Luna wakes up. Seeing it's Dada, Luna leans forward, her small hands reaching for Jeongguk's face, cupping it gently. Her beautiful features scrunch up for a second, "You look tired."

Jeongguk smiles, "Not so much."

"Did Uncle Joon snore a lot?"

Yoongi can't help but laugh, Jeongguk following suit.

Witty, this little moonstar.

There's an obvious love in Jeongguk's eyes, strong and overflowing. "Just don't tease Uncle Joon about that when he gets here later."

Luna's big starry eyes widen in panic, "I like Uncle Joon though!"

***

When they are finally in bed, arms wrapped around each other, that Jeongguk asks...

"How about you, did you miss me too?"

Yoongi's answer is a kiss, which starts as slow and soft before turning hot and needy. 

"God. I'll never gonna leave you that long." Jeongguk pause, to take a breath. "You know what, I'm just gonna bring you and the girls with me if I have to be away longer than a week. My heart aches --"

Yoongi rolls his eyes, "Oh shut it," but he's smiling. Feeling his heart thump happily against his ribs, relieved that Jeongguk is safely back in his arms.

Chapter Text

yoongi, a hunter of the healing songbird, meets a young man in the forest. but the man is unconscious, yoongi knows he has no time to care for a stranger, who is dying by the looks of it. he has more urgent matters at hand, his family needs him.

deciding to leave it be, yoongi turns on his heels but one look at the man reminds yoongi of the people he left behind, people close to him sick and dying for reasons unexplainable. a plague has befallen his home. and he needs a cure.

"it's the songbird," what his mother says, her face pale and sweaty, she's getting worse. "it hasn't visited us in years, yoongi."

yoongi has heard of it, enchanting his town with melodies early in the morning.

people believe it brings them luck but now that it's gone, everything is falling apart.

"find it, darling. the great songbird. and asks for its forgiveness whether we have done wrong or not." she breathes heavily, "if not for me, then for this town. save them, my boy."

the man stirs, catching yoongi's attention, bringing him back to the present. the man curls to himself, finding warmth and comfort in this cold, cruel forest. a low whimper is heard next and it tugs at yoongi's heart. he looks so young, so small, so vulnerable. too soon to die.

but then the sky starts crying, small raindrops falling from above.

yoongi hisses, shrugging his coat off to put around the younger man. "i'll be back," and runs to find some shelter but the forest offers limited protection from the rain with its dying trees.

yoongi wishes it stays as showers, for this rare tree with its broad leaves and thick trunk can only do much if it turns to a storm. when he comes back, the man is awake.

he has a beautiful pair of hazel brown eyes. big, round and enchanting.

"i-is this yours?" the coat, he means.

yoongi only nods, "come on, i found a shed." he hesitates for a moment before gently helping the man up. the younger lad takes his arms, leaning in for support.

"you'll pull this through, okay kid? we're almost there."

a hum of an agreement is his reply.

they sit in silence as they watch the rain floats in gentle waves to the ground.

yoongi has some questions. what are you doing here? what happens to you? why are you alone? what hurts you? who are you? what's your name? neither of these he voices out loud.

can't help the urge, yoongi turns to look at the man, he's so thin and pale. this one needs to get his strength back if he wants to survive this harsh world. he's too young to die. too beautiful. too much.

yoongi passes him his bread, eat, he says, and his container of clean water.

hazel brown eyes stare at him. "how about you?"

"i'm good. you need to get better."

the younger nods, taking the food in his small hands. "t-thank you."

yoongi only offers a small smile.

they don't speak after that, content on watching the scene before them.

"there's no water around here." the younger stated surely and when yoongi gazes at him there's a hint of color back on his face. where,  the stranger wants to know.

"the forest before this, a river nestled between two large trees."

and for the first time, a smile slips off the man's face.

"he brought you to me."

"huh?"

"he knows he can't help so he brought you to me."

"he? i don't understand. i didn't see anyone there. i am on my own."

"you are."

yoongi rises on his feet, dusted his clothes off leaves and dirt.

"listen, i need to go. i'm in a hurry but i can't le--"

"i'll be fine, don't worry. the bread and water have helped me a lot."

yoongi frowns, conflicted and hesitant to leave the man on his own but he has urgent business to take care of.

"you can have the coat. you need it more than i do."

the younger looks up, his eyes shining.

"you have a generous heart. you have." and he smiles again, his eyes shiny with unshed tears. that's the same time the rain stops and the sky clear up, blue and welcoming.

yoongi feels the warmth of that smile all the way to his heart.

"be safe okay? stay alive!" yoongi says and the man, the beautiful man, hums and bids him goodbye.

yoongi's a few feet away when he hears him again, "hey, you didn't tell me your name."

he glances back, "yoongi. min yoongi."

"thank you, yoongi."

it has a melody to it, his voice. soft and sweet and relaxing, but when yoongi looks up to ask "and you are?"

no one is there.

panic rises in his throat, cold sweat slowly forming on his hand and neck.

suddenly the forest lights up as tree branches start growing back, filling the forest with green and colors from the flowers blooming around.

he feels the air swifts, before a golden like bird flies past him. it circles above him for a moment then flies away, leaving yoongi stunned.

although the rest of yoongi's journey has been pleasant, he fails to capture the songbird.

yoongi goes home with a heavy heart.

but surprise has welcomed him when he gets back. the town he left is nothing like this, bright and full of laughter, like it hasn't been plagued at all, like it's FREE from whatever curse it has befallen.

"my boy! my boy!" his mother rushes to him and envelopes him in a tight hug. "you save us. you did!"

but yoongi shakes his head, he couldn't find the songbird. how is that possible?

then people are around him, thanking him, praising him. he's now a hero. this town very own hero.

min yoongi, the man who captures the songbird's heart.

they say.

but he doesn't understand.

not until he sees the coat with a note on top of his bed.

"meet me at the river."

and yoongi, yoongi knows who it is.

the coat. the river. the man.

he runs back out, ignoring the people who try to stop him or his mother's questioning gaze and just runs and runs until he finds it again.

and there, at the river bank, is the man from the forest.

Beautiful and enchanting.

Just like voice.

His face glows up as he smiles at Yoongi. His eyes, the same hazel brown. Yoongi takes a breath then, feels his heart aches in a good way.

"I'm Jungkook."

"The Songbird."

The leaves sway as Jungkook laughs.

"Hello again, Yoongi."

Chapter Text

Yoongi arrived at the restaurant his Mom had reserved for him and his date.

This had been the third time this month.

He sighed tiredly. Wanting to go home and sleep some more but instead, he squared his shoulders and went inside. This would be over soon. And if it didn't work out like the others, then this would be the last and he's finally free. No more blind dates to attend to! The notion itself excite him.

Yoongi surveyed his surroundings. Well, at least the place didn't look too intimate and romantic compared to the first few dates he'd gone to.

Two beautiful ladies at the front desk bowed and greeted him, one of which had asked for his name. When his reservation was confirmed, the other made a call. Only when a guy appeared in front of him, with the best business smile he’d ever seen in his life, that Yoongi realized this was the usher who would take him to his table.

Yoongi hated this kind of formality. He told his Mom he wasn't into this type of thing but she still insisted that Yoongi should come because according to her this guy was a hotshot.

Well, hotshot or not, Yoongi wasn't really interested.

He closed his eyes and sighed again as he prepped himself for the last time. Okay, you got this. Try to smile, once you get this done you're off the hook . But only an empty table had welcomed him. A sudden disappointment flashed through him. What was he expecting? What was he even anticipating for? That the hotshot was waiting for him with a smile? That he’d get on his feet to greet him and then help him settle on his seat?

You fool.

The guy was obviously late. Which could mean he wasn't taking this date seriously or he was stuck in traffic with no way of contacting him. Either way, still bad for first impression.

With nothing else to do as he waits, Yoongi took his cellphone out of his pocket and sent his best friend Namjoon an imperative text.

Yoongs: If this “hotshot” still not around in the next 30, please do save me from the embarrassment of eating alone.

Nams: I'll be complaining how horrible the traffic was and that I was sorry. Okay, noted!

Yoongs: Super!

Nams: *thumbs up*

That, at least put Yoongi at ease. Now he didn’t have to worry if people started throwing pity looks at him because someone would surely come and save him if his date decided to ditch him.

Yoongi had probably been fiddling on his phone for quite some time that he didn’t notice when a waitress stopped by for the second time, asking him again if he's ready to order now. He felt bad. He wasn’t ignoring her, he was just preoccupied.

Yoongs: Did you know I'm on a date right now?

Hob: A DATE?! ARE YOU FUCKING WITH ME?!

Yoongs: When did I?

Hobi: NO WAY!

Yoongs: YES WAY.

Hobi: You didn’t tell me!

Yoongs: I AM TELLING YOU NOW YOU IDIOT LOL

Hobi: ASSHOLE

Hobi: SO WHO IS THIS SHIT YOU BETRAYED ME FOR?

Yoongs: A shit who is STILL a no-show, I'm feeling the eyes at the back of my neck. The burning look of pity.

Hobi: HAHAHAHA HYUNG I’M SURE NAMJOONIE WILL SAVE THE DAY, CONSIDERING I AM STILL AT WORK AND CANNOT HELP YOUR ASS OUTTA THERE

Yoongs: HE WILL like he always do

Hobi: Update me if “HOTSHOT” arrives! send proof you're not lying to me

Yoongs: You are a shitty friend

Hobi: HAHAHAHA

Half an hour had passed but Mr. Hotshot was still nowhere to be seen.

He may be annoyed from being stood up but he's also relieved at the same time.

Time to text Namjoon, hopefully, he's nearby so he could save his ass sooner but suddenly, a guy he had never seen before sat across from him and outright said, "Hyung? Is that you? Hey, long time no see!" And quietly added, "I'm Jeongguk by the way. I’m sorry but would you please just go with it, yeah? Whoever didn’t bother to show up is a dick."

Yoongi didn’t know what to say but whoever this kid was, it looked like he knew what he was doing. Saving his old ass from heartbreak and humiliation. And honestly, this Jeongguk guy looked harmless. Wouldn't hurt if he'd play along.

Grateful for this young soul’s act of kindness, Yoongi replied with a genuine smile. "It's been a while, kid. What's up?"

Yoongi thought it’d be awkward but it wasn’t, not when he saw how Jeongguk was proudly smiling at him, like saying “Good job! You're doing great, sweetie!”

“I’m Yoongi.” He said in a whisper then added, "And thank you. ”

The smile on Jeongguk's face hasn't died down but a tinge of pink had found a place on his cheeks. It's cute, he thought, smiling too. It reminded him of that cute boy back in their old neighborhood, who unabashedly declared his love for him.

“When I grow up, I will find you. And when I find you, I will marry you. You just wait!”

Yoongi pushed the memory of that silly kid at the back of his mind and secretly studied the kind man who saved his face from embarrassment.

Jeongguk was a fine looking man. Even with only a loose white shirt with few buttons undone and rolled up sleeves, he didn't look so out of place. It was the kind of shirt where if he was drenched in sweat or soaked from the rain, one could see the inside. It was a nice shirt, a really nice shirt, he thought mischievously.

"How did you know--" Yoongi started when the silence had been too much.

"You've been here for quite some time," Jeongguk said in his seemingly nonchalant tone of voice but then his fingers tap tap tap on the table. A contradictory.

"Are you watching me?" Yoongi joked. Wanting to make the other feel at ease. Somehow.

The blush deepened, Yoongi noticed again. He's observant, that's why.

"You'll see everything from the open kitchen." Jeongguk replied back with a chuckle.

Amused by that, "Do you work here?" Yoongi asked, before grabbing the menu book, seeing the waitress was on her way to their table. Another smile on her face but more welcoming this time.

“May I take your orders now, Sir?” She gave Jeongguk a knowing smile.

Yoongi feigned ignorance.

Yoongi scanned the menu. He sighed, this stuff was too formal for his taste buds. Biting his lip, he looked up and told the waitress they may need a little time to decide what they want. The waitress nodded and said she would be back in a bit.

When she had gone inside, Jeongguk said, “I wish I can stay and talk, Yoongi-sshi. But I’m actually running late.”

Jeongguk fiddled with his hands.

"So you don't work here?"

A shake of the head.

"But you were in the kitchen." He paused just to add, "And she seemed to know you too."

Jeongguk groaned, dropping his gaze on the table.

"My brother works here." Was his only explanation. Yoongi didn't ask for more.

“Honestly, I wanna go home and sleep. So if you can do me another favor, ask me to come with you or something. Just get me out of here.” Yoongi replied with an uneasy laugh.

"Aren't you hungry?"

"I am but I'd rather have some takeouts than eat here. No offense to your brother."

"None taken. Come on, we should be going."

And he rose to his feet.

Hmm, so Jeongguk was wearing a denim colored baggy pants to match his loose shirt, which was tucked in a nice timberland boots. Yoongi tried to hide the smile that threatened to slip without his consent by sending Namjoon a quick reply.

Namjoon: Wait for me outside

Jungkook cleared his throat "I'm sorry I called your date a dick." They walked side by side, pretending they were not in a hurry to get out of there. The waitress eyed them but didn't say anything. She didn't look annoyed that he's leaving without ordering something. Or wasting her time.

His phone buzzed. It was Namjoon and it read, "but I'm hungry hyung".

Yoongs: We'll order out. I’ll be outside in a bit. Don’t get surprised though, I have company.

A hand grabbed his arm as he was pocketing his phone, pulling him closer, closer to the warmth of Jeongguk’s body.

"Are you always on your phone?"

"Uh, no?"

A chuckle.

Yet again.

Yoongi bit his lip, trying not to coo from the sound of it. Was it weird to find someone's chuckle, cute??

"Good. You need to look where you're going. Or you'll end up crushing on someone or like now, a wall."

Now it's time for Yoongi to blush.

Great, just great. You embarrassed yourself in front of the cute guy. The same guy who hauled your ass from humiliation of failed date.

"Thanks." He mumbled, suddenly shy.

Jeongguk shook his head, a small smile adorning his face.

Once outside, Yoongi said. “Again, thank you for saving me back there and for being my pretend-date. It would be embarrassing if I stayed there alone.”

“Although it was a short date, I had fun. And you’re welcome.” Jeongguk replied with yet another smile.

Yoongi couldn’t help but stare at how Jeongguk's smile light up his face, how his eyes wrinkled at the side and how his lips turned so pink.

Yoongi wanted to touch those lips.

Berating himself for having such thought, he shook his head while trying to give out a smile. “It's nice meeting you, Jeongguk-sshi.”

“So this is where we part ways, yeah?” Yoongi could tell that Jeongguk was trying to make this light but it was making him sad instead. He barely even knew the guy but it felt like he was cutting all ties with him! What the hell.

“Yeah.” His simple reply.

Jeongguk was avoiding his gaze now, he wondered why. “Hmm well, I’ll be heading this way.” He pointed the way opposite of where he was going.

Right. Not meant to be. A summer fling.

“Okay. Thanks again, Jeongguk.” But before he got a reply back, he turned on his heels and walked away. Walked away before he said something like "How can I repay you? Coffee perhaps?"

Stupid.

He held his phone to his ear and called Namjoon who picked up after just one ring.

“You look like you just got dumped.”

“Have you seen him? He looks damn nice.”

“I can see that.”

“Good stuff are not meant for me, anyway. Where are you?”

“To your right.”

When Yoongi saw Namjoon, he briskly walked towards his best friend.

“Just so you know, he’s still looking your way.”

“What? Oh Nams, no. You're not helping my resolve here. Shouldn't say a thing!”

Namjoon was smiling, but only answered when Yoongi was a few feet away. "You have a thing for the pretty ones.” And offered a thumbs up.

“Funny how I feel like I just broken up with someone.” Yoongi, feeling much better now, laughed at his madness.

Namjoon teased him about it as they walk.

“Oh shut it. You know me, I get attached easily.”

“True. Not your best suit though.”

Yoongi waved him off, “Come on, I’m starving. You just got paid right?”

“Yeah?”

“Perfect. You are treating this hyung to dinner.”

“What? You said you gonna pay!"

"When did I?"

"No, we’re doing dutch!”

“I am upset, remember? When you get so stressed out, what do I do?”

Namjoon sighed and allowed Yoongi to drag him to the nearest chicken and beer joint. Not knowing Jeongguk’s still watching them, a smile still on his face.

***

Bonus: Jeongguk

“What took you so long, Gguk? I thought you said you're just gonna drop-by the Dosa.”

Jeongguk took his position next to Jimin, ignoring Taehyung’s inquiries.

Jimin was doing some stretching but stopped when he noticed Jeongguk. “Jeonggukkie, are you okay? You look so flushed.”

Jeongguk tried to hide the heat that took home on his cheeks by doing the same thing as Jimin. Opting to say nothing.

“You seem different today. Something good happened?” Jimin nudged him, playful.

Hoseok, their senior choreographer, heard the teasing and immediately jumped onto the wagon, “Either he met up with his girlfriend or he did something naughty before coming here.”

And the laughter that followed was never-ending.

Despite all the teasing, Jungkook stayed mum about his day.

His friends don't have to know he just met his childhood crush at Seokjin’s restaurant. Too bad Yoongi didn't recognize him, but maybe that's for the best. Young Yoongi didn't like persistent little Jeongguk, anyway. He won't let the hyungs ruin this reunion for him. So for now, he would keep this chance meeting to himself.

And probably the smile on his face too, for the rest of the day and weeks to come.

***

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

May 12, 2020 

One year. 366 days. 39th log.

I haven't been in our room for the past 9 months. 

I haven't been in our apartment for 6.

It was part of my therapy. 

To remove myself from that space, from the things that hurt, from our memories, from YOU.

It wasn't easy. It felt like I was coping with death. 

Maybe I was. 

When I refused to leave the apartment believing if I stay, I would catch you coming back. But you never did.

When the rage came in full bloom, I found myself angry at everything, always fuming. I felt betrayed that Namjoon knew , I felt hurt that we were at the studio all day but he never said a word. I was going crazy, I thought he was seeing you behind my back. Because I knew . It was you before it was Jimin. A foolish jealousy that almost breaks us apart.

But Namjoon and the others didn't give up on me. And I'm grateful for that. The amount of love and patience they have for me outweighs the hurtful words I have thrown at them. Two months in, my fire started burning out. All I wanted at that time was to know where you are, if you're safe, if you're eating well, if you're taking care of yourself, if you're happy. But they never yielded, even if I cried, even if I begged.

Soon enough, I'm just a mass of smoke. My fire was dying out. I was spiraling, down down down. 

Maybe there's no reason to wait anymore, I know you're not coming back. I know I should stop chasing after your ghost but how? How, when every corner I see glimpses of you? When I still love you so, despite the aching and the hole you left in my heart. 

Your absence has shattered me so badly. I don't know how but I need to put myself back together, not just for myself but also for the people who care and love me.

I have to let go to move forward.

Now here we are, 6 months worth of constant therapy.

I'm doing better. I believe so.

I'm trying to get back on my feet. To focus on my life, on loving myself, loving the person you fell in love with years ago and loving the person I am today.

I still miss you, though.

Your sleepy face in the morning, how whiny it sounds when you ask me to stay longer in bed with you. Your voice in the shower, your voice when you sing along to your favorite song on the radio. Your arms wrapped around me when I cooked us breakfast. Your doe eyes that I can't say no to. Your lips that taste like cherry. Your hugs that cheers me up. Your very presence that warms me at night.

How are you? Where have you been all this time? You know our friends are still a pain in the ass, their lips are still sealed.

I understand though, it's for our own good. So rest assured, I won't come after you. 

But I will always be here, if you decide to come home. Even if it wasn't for me.

Lastly, I'M SORRY.

For a lot of reasons... You accepted my flaws, embraced my weaknesses, and loved my imperfections. But I take that all for granted, abused it even. I was overconfident that your love would never fade, that your patience would last long, that you would be here, with me, forever.

I apologize for all of my faults, for failing you and our love.

I'm sorry that I didn't consider your fire burning out too. 

I'm so sorry, Jeongguk-ah.

***

<click me>

Chapter Text

Yoongi wanted to laugh, but also punch whoever Dispatch employed to follow him around. Now, headlines of his new marriage made the news and tabloid gossip around town. The worst part, he couldn’t keep Jungkook’s identity hidden from the public anymore.

A sigh escaped Yoongi’s lips. This is to be expected, a ‘scandal’ this big won’t die down in a few days. His manager had scolded him, even threatened to take his phone away, but he just couldn’t help himself.

He typed his name on the bar and hit search. Articles upon articles came up, one of which says, “Min Yoongi is gay…?” like it’s so hard to believe, like it’s a crime. That’s fine. He can take any stones thrown at him, but leave his family out of it!

Fuming, Yoongi sent the two articles he saw mentioning his ex-wife to his manager.

“This is Kim Mia, Yoongi’s ex-wife, has to say about her ex’s new relationship”

“Did Kim Mia know that her past beau is gay? Is it the reason for their divorce?”

His phone rang just then.

He picked it up with a scowl. “Hyung, can you—”

“I told you I’ll take care of them, right? So please, close that damn naver and let me work.”

“Okay hyung, thank you. I’m sorry you have to do damage control and all that.”

“Oh Yoongi, please, I can’t take all the credit.” The teasing tone in his manager’s voice helped him calm down a bit. “Thank Jungkook and his family for doing all the work. I’m amazed they can easily wipe out an entire page of nasty articles about you. We have to keep a few, though. Or else the public will notice…”

“But he needs to protect himself, too.” Yoongi mumbled to himself as he came across another article that says, ”Who is Jeon Jungkook, Min Yoongi’s other half?” but that’s not what caused his face to drain out of color. “Stock of H motor group drops after the news of its heir’s marriage”. It’s the knowledge that he’s the reason this company is losing money, regardless of how big or small that may be. He didn’t want to cause them any trouble, all because he married Jungkook.

His only consolation is that his fans have accepted him for who he is.

1. We’re always here for you, Yoongi-ah! Fuck Dispatch! They’re always ruining everything for you 😡

2. Yo media, Yoongi obviously hid this from y’all to protect their relationship. JUST LEAVE THEM ALONE!

3. Best wishes to the newlyweds! 🥰

4. SO WHAT IF HE’S WITH A MAN? IF HE’S HAPPY WITH MR. JEON JUNGKOOK, THEN I AM HAPPY FOR HIM!

5. Seriously, fuck all these HOMOPHOBES

That night, his agency released a statement confirming the marriage. Although it was short and very official sounding, they ended it on a sweet note. “Yoongi and Jungkook are happily in love. We’ll do our best to protect that love and happiness,” and asked the public to respect the couple’s wishes to keep their relationship private.

Two strong arms snake around his waist, a warmth he didn’t realize he’d been missing for years. And then soft lips touched the side of his neck, as though saying, “Hi, my love. I’m here now.”

Tension left his body as soon as he’s in Jungkook’s embrace. His shoulders relaxed, his breathing slowed down.

He knew there would be new articles after the official statement was out, especially now that ‘Yoongi’ has also released a letter to his fans on instagram.

A letter which he started with an apology, saying that this wasn't how he wanted to let everyone know about his sexuality and his new relationship. Then he apologized to Mia and their daughter Bora, for dragging them into this mess. He clarified that their divorce has nothing to do with him being attracted to men, that his ex-wife knew from the start that he was bisexual. That he still loves her and will always be here for them. He also thanked his fans for sticking by his side, for understanding and welcoming this part of his life.

Yoongi grabbed one of Jungkook’s hands and lifted it to his lips. “I’m sorry about the stocks.”

Jungkook tightened his hold on to him. “Don’t worry about that, we’ll get that back in no time. How are you feeling, though?”

“I’d say, I’m fine, but you can see right through me. It’s useless to pretend anymore.”

“You don’t have to mask how you feel with me, my love.”

“I know that.”

“Good. So who put that frown on your face, then? Who do I fight with?”

Yoongi chuckled, so endeared. He wiggled out of Jungkook’s arms, tiptoes a bit to kiss the other on the lips.

“No one. I’m just nervous is all.” He watched as confusion covered Jungkook’s face. A few seconds passed before realization sank in.

“OHH THAT. Right, Sejin-ssi said he’ll be posting your letter tonight.”

“Yeah.”

“You’re itching to check your phone, huh."

Yoongi nodded, biting his lip. “I kinda told them about you, about us.” In his letter, he said that Jungkook has always been his soulmate. He contemplated it for days, but he wanted people to know this didn’t happen out of the blue. Jungkook isn’t just a whirlwind romance.

A smile stretched on Jungkook’s lips. “Can I see it?”

“Of course.” And handed him the phone, letting the other navigate through his instagram account. He knew Jungkook had found it when his smile grew bigger and when a blush slowly took a home on his cheeks.

I knew it’s him, but I had to let him go. I was entering the world of show business while he has a family business to take care of. We naturally drifted apart. Lost contact along the way… Until my divorce last year. One day, he just called. I won’t go into details, but we reconnected. Now, a year has passed but I can still remember his words that day… When I found out you’re on the market again, I just gotta have you back. And he did, and the rest is history.

I love him. I’ve always loved him.

When Jungkook met his gaze, his eyes were shining with tears. Happy tears.

“And I love you too. It’s always been you, Yoongi.”

Chapter Text

Miracle boy.

That’s what Yoongi is known for most of his life, the boy who lived from a near-death experience.

It was a summer break, a family outing. Nobody could exactly tell how it happened. Witnesses only saw the moment a body hit the ground. Hard and loud.

“There’s no way he could have survived,” one of the onlookers said, but when the paramedics arrived, it surprised them to see how ‘minor’ Yoongi’s injuries were. And if you ask any of the medical responders how is that possible, they could only shrug. It’s a baffling mystery. The fall and injuries didn’t match up. On the outside, it seemed like Yoongi only fell a few stairs down. 

“I’m tired, I want to sleep”, Those were the words he was muttering the entire way to the hospital, unaware of the pain on his shoulder or the blood on his head.

It took several days before he regained full consciousness and another day to clear the confusion surrounding his accident. It wasn’t easy as he took in the sight of his left arm on a sling or how bruises still color his body. Then panic rose in his throat when he realized he couldn’t recognize the faces of the people around him.

He knew these were his parents, the doctors told him so, but how come they don’t look the same as he remembers them to be?

***

Jeongguk just wanted to end it all. He’s tired of watching the people close to him die one by one, tired of burying them on the ground, saying goodbyes over and over again. But he’s a God, he’s immortal. He can’t die unless They want him to, he can’t die because humans still need him. Or maybe he’ll meet his end in a hundred years, maybe after human extinction.

The thing is, he’s fond of humans, he enjoyed living among them. This way he can hear their prayers much better, this way it’s easier to help. But humans… they forget about you once their wishes were granted. Don’t get him wrong, he’s not expecting something in return, he’s helping because that’s what he is.

A God for the Desperate and the Hopeless.

He’s working around the clock, always listening for prayers, their bargaining, their acceptance, but being a God doesn't mean he can just give an extra day, or an extra month, or another year to anyone who called for him. A life force couldn’t be given, but it can be borrowed. Like people who are on the brink of death, can take some of Jeongguk’s life force to live long enough to see their children grow up, or do things they haven’t done yet.

It’s a cycle, once borrowed will always return. Hence, his life force is infinite.

Until he met a young boy. 

He heard his plea, “I just want to say I love you to my dad and hug my mom. Just one last time.” Jeongguk could do that, he could delay death for a simple wish like this. 

At this point in life, there wasn’t much that could surprise Jeongguk anymore, until he let the boy tap on his life force. It gives Jeongguk the ability to see this boy’s past lives and how his future will be, and that’s how he sees it. See that by the end of this boy’s life line, there is Jeongguk. Waiting. Smiling. Anticipating. Jeongguk looks the same as he always is, but the boy is much older, maybe older than how Jeongguk looks right now. Then the man is running up to him, relief evident on his face.

Jeongguk finally let go of the boy’s hand, allowing the paramedics to get to him. The boy will live. He had taken enough life force from Jeongguk that would last him a few years.

When he looked up, he saw his reflection staring back at him, a puzzled look on his face. 

Jeongguk watched as his hair slowly turned to white.

***