Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Yoongi flipped over the sign on the glass door. Many people who saw him on the street wouldn’t think he was the owner of Sugar Petals, not with his grey dyed hair, pierced ears, and ripped jeans. But Yoongi loved his little flower shop, even on days like today.

The stepladder screeched across the floor, as he began watering the hanging vine pots. It’s been hot and humid in Seoul and they love the extra evening watering. His arms shook lifting the water jug over his head. Droplets of water splashed onto his shoes. Yoongi sighed. Guess he was walking home in wet shoes. Last one , Yoongi checked the leaves of the airplane plant. Its green leaves still edged with brown. He had been trying to rehabilitate it for Mrs. Lee. It was doing better, but not quite as well as he wanted. Yoongi made a mental note to research recipes for fertilizer to help it along a little more. Finally, his evening watering was finished.

Yoongi stretched to the ceiling reaching as far as he can. The knots in his back released with a groan. It had been a long day. He ran late this morning; some kids thought it’d be fun to rearrange his cut flowers display out front. He should have spent his time doing inventory instead of cleaning up their mess.. Yoongi was ready to walk home even with his wet shoes, heat up some leftovers and watch TV.

All that separated him was taking the recycling to the dumpster in the alley. Just a few more steps, Yoongi heaved the cardboard box up off the floor. He should really start working out, being a florist had a lot of heavy lifting surprisingly. The alley door groaned as Yoongi shoved it open. He was almost to the dumpster when the rustling started. He stopped, frowning. The shops around his were already closed up for the night, so it couldn’t be a worker. The rattling stopped. Something had to be there.

Yoongi quietly put the box down and made sure his phone was in his pocket. The soft banging of the rummaging began again. If it was a homeless person, Yoongi would offer them a yogurt, which he keeps stocked in the shop’s fridge. Sometimes he couldn’t be bothered to pack a lunch. Yogurt was better than trash, but he couldn’t just call out. It could be a feral cat or something. He inched closer to the edge of the metal dumpster and peered around the corner. The street light lit the tiny alleyway. He could see an outline of the back of a human head.

“Hey,” Yoongi called, “I have food in the shop if you want some. It’s not the best, but it’s better than whatever you can find in there.”

The man froze. He slowly looked over his shoulder, triangular ears peeking up out of the top of his hair. Not a man then -- a hybrid. This wasn’t the first hybrid Yoongi’s encountered. How could it be, when he was friends with Namjoon? But it was his first time seeing a true stray hybrid. And this boy was definitely a stray. His cheeks were much too thin looking skeletal in the yellow street light. Bruises bloomed across his face and neck, and was that blood Yoongi saw? The boy cowered back trying to melt into the brick wall.

“It’s okay.” Yoongi reached out, as if to touch it, but the boy hunched in on himself baring his pointed teeth. “Okay - I just - I’m not calling the pound. I’m just calling my friend, I promise. He’ll help you.”

The hybrid didn’t move just traced Yoongi’s every move with his eyes, as the human brought his phone up to his ear.

Namjoon didn’t even say hi to Yoongi when he picked up the phone. “Yoongi, family dinner isn’t until Thursday night, but if you want to come over tonight, I’m sure Jin made more than enough.”

“Why is it you always think I can’t feed myself?” huffed Yoongi. “I’m not calling about food. I - I found a hybrid in the alley. Can you...I don’t know...do something?” Yoongi didn’t take his eyes off of the skittish hybrid, afraid if he turned away the hybrid would flee.

“Bring it into the shop and I can be there in fifteen minutes,” said Namjoon. Yoongi could hear him gathering his things on the other side.

“See you then.” Yoongi pocketed the phone into his work apron. He didn’t really think this far ahead. Now how to get the hybrid inside? All of Namjoon’s lectures on hybrid care flew out of the window, Yoongi stepped closer to the dumpster.

A switch flipped in the hybrid. Hissing filled the air. The hybrid’s tail thumped angrily against the ground. Yoongi backed off instantly apologies falling from his lips.

Yoongi pulled at his hair. Today just couldn’t get worse. All he wanted to do was help the kid. He could only imagine how he got those bruises. The streets were dangerous for anybody, but especially a hybrid. The humanoid pets barely had any rights when claimed. Yoongi gulped. He just needed to treat the kid like Jin.

“I’m Yoongi.” The hissing stopped so he continued. Maybe this was working. “I own this flower shop. My friend, Namjoon, is a hybrid vet. He is on his way to check your injuries, but we should do it inside. It’ll be better to see and much warmer.”

Pointy ears popped out of the boy’s mop of hair. Yoongi smiled at the change. The boy no longer pressed himself into the shadows. Yoongi took a few steps to the door, kicking the box of recycling. He’ll deal with that tomorrow.

“It’s right through this door. I should have a few blankets too.”

The boy peered around the corner of the dumpster. Yoongi could see his matted hair. How long has the kid been living out here? The hybrid’s arms shook as he pushed himself to stand propped against the dumpster. It looked like the hybrid used all of his energy for such a simple action. Yoongi itched to go help him, but he knew it’d be a bad idea. The kid could lash out leaving Yoongi hurt. Hybrid teeth and nails were much stronger than his own, easily breaking through skin. The boy’s chest heaved from exertion. The five steps to Yoongi must have felt like a thousand needles in his feet, as he winced with each step, choking back little whines. But at least Yoongi didn’t have to sacrifice a limb to help him.

Yoongi propped open the door. Only the back lights were still on, but he didn’t move to turn more on. He didn’t want to scare away the hybrid. The boy needed to stay. He needed help.

Yoongi went to his tiny back office hoping the boy followed him inside. He wasn’t that worried about his shop. Okay, he was kind of worried, but more about replacing broken clay pots than anything else.

Under one of the cabinets were two blankets Yoongi was positive he’d had. He brought them to the shop about a month ago when winter settled in. Some plants, like the rose bushes, did not like the chill. If Yoongi could stay wrapped in a blanket, he would be a happier person too. He opened the mini-fridge grabbing a strawberry yogurt and a spoon. Besides a desk, paperwork, and a spare apron, his office didn’t have much. No, Yoongi much preferred digging his hands in the dirt rather than doing paperwork.

When Yoongi reentered the main shop room, he couldn’t see the hybrid’s lean body anywhere. Fuck. Defeat left his shoulders deflated. He hoped someone else could save the kid before he froze on the streets. It was already a hard winter, and it was only January. Yoongi turned back to put it all back into his office, but a soft thump made him turn back. Maybe he wasn’t alone after all.

Yoongi saw the tail first. The black tail curved around one of the table legs thumping whenever Yoongi looked away. With a deep sigh, Yoongi sat on the hard concrete floor, his joints popping. He swore he was actually an old man in a 28-year-old body. Bright amber eyes blinked at him. The kid looked like an accordion scrunched up under the table. A few flowers and leaves hung off the edge. No wonder he didn’t see the hybrid at first.

As best as he could sitting on the ground, Yoongi shook out a blanket throwing the warm fleece over the boy’s legs which were closest to him. The hybrid didn’t move, didn’t even hiss at the action. Next, Yoongi placed the yogurt and spoon beside the boy’s tail. He didn’t risk reaching in any further. The hybrid could still lash out. He could claw Yoongi’s face. Yoongi liked his face, thank you very much.

Ears still hidden in his mop of black hair, the boy snatched up the container of yogurt. He hunched over the food glaring at Yoongi, as if he’d take it away from the boy. His long finger - God, is everything big about this kid? Yoongi couldn’t imagine how much muscle he’d gain once eating right - peeled back the cover. The boy’s nose twitched as he sniffed it. It wasn’t like Yoongi would poison the kid, but he didn’t comment. He had no idea what the hybrid’s past was like after all. Finally, his tiny pink tongue dipped inside to taste it before gulping it all down. The boy was just about to set the container back down when the bell rang through the shop. He curled into himself hissing at the noise. Namjoon was finally here.

“Oh and what are we doing down here?” said Namjoon kneeling on the floor beside Yoongi. “Hi, I hope Yoongi told you I was coming.”

The hybrid only blinked at the man. Yoongi scoffed at his friend. Of course, he told him. He wasn’t incompetent.

Namjoon leaned closer frowning. “Does your face hurt?” He scooted closer bending his giant body under with the hybrid, unthinking of the consequences. A low grumble echoed through the air. Yoongi scurried back grimacing at the plants on the table. If this went wrong, they would all be destroyed. Yoongi could rehabilitate plant diseases, but traumatized plants were almost a lost cause.

“I only want to help. Can I help you?” Namjoon asked the hybrid. The boy jerked to Yoongi, as if asking permission. Yoongi’s heart clenched. Wide, innocent eyes like that shouldn’t have been on the streets in the first place. Yoongi tried to give him an encouraging smile, but it felt forced, like he was Mr. Potato Head. As if that was all he needed, the hybrid nodded slightly uncurling. Namjoon’s head banged against the top of the table, but he didn’t seem to notice as he scooted closer. Yoongi winced as the clay pots clanged against each other from the disturbance. How Namjoon hasn’t destroyed his flower shop Yoongi would never know? The boy didn’t flinch away as Namjoon examined him, but the pain was clear on his face with every gentle probe.

“I really want to check for internal injuries,” said Namjoon. “Can we come out from under the table?”

The hybrid nodded and followed him out. Yoongi scrambled to find a couple of stools. He patted the top beckoning for the hybrid to sit. With careful steps, the hybrid watched their every move as he climbed on the metal stool.

“Oh God,” swore Namjoon. The boy jumped clutching the seat. “I haven’t even asked you your name! I swear I’ve been doing this for years. Yoongi, don’t you dare tell, Jin-hyung.” Yoongi smirked. He’ll add this to his blackmail. “What’s your name?”

“J-jungkook,” stuttered the hybrid.

“Nice to meet you, Jungkook-ssi. Can you remove your shirt, so I can check your organs?” asked Namjoon stepping closer.

Jungkook didn’t answer, simply pulling the large, grey sweatshirt over his head. Yoongi cringed as more and more of Jungkook’s chest was revealed. Underneath the blotches of bruises was skin and bones. The stray hybrid was starved. Namjoon’s fingers counted every rib and notch in his spine. Yoongi couldn’t watch anymore. He escaped to his office. The poor kid. Yoongi collapsed into his desk chair. No one should have to experience what Jungkook has been through. At least, Namjoon will take him to the shelter. Jungkook will heal and soon have the home he deserved. A soft knock jarred Yoongi back to reality.

Namjoon walked in. “He has a few broken ribs and as you saw, he’s severely underweight.”

“At least, he’ll get the care he needs at the shelter,” said Yoongi.

“Yoongi...I can’t take him to the shelter. We are at full capacity.”

“Full capacity? But you can’t send him to the pound or let him go back to the streets, he’ll die.” Yoongi couldn’t believe the words coming from his friend’s mouth.

“I can’t take him in, but you can,” said Namjoon slowly. “You have the spare bedroom, and it’s not like you don’t know hybrids.”

Yoongi pulled at his grey hair. He couldn’t care for Jungkook. He’s failed at it too many times before, but he can’t let him go. It’d be a death sentence. Yoongi spun in his office chair, his eyes catching on the face down picture frame on his desk. Yoongi’s jaw clenched. “I’ll take him; just until you have space in the shelter.”

Convincing Jungkook to come home with him was surprisingly easy. The hybrid didn’t flinch away from Yoongi like he did with Namjoon. It was almost like he wanted to stay as close to Yoongi as possible. The entire walk home Yoongi had a living shadow. Jungkook followed his every move, but never bumped into him as if he was used to reading people’s actions.

Yoongi loved his apartment. It was really a steal, especially in Seoul. The open floorplan made it feel bigger than it was. It had enough space to hold his favorite couch that supported his back perfectly, and a small dining table for the off chance his older brother stopped over for dinner. The kitchen wasn’t something to brag about, but Jin didn’t complain too much when he commandeered it, and enough natural light for his plants. He liked plants, so sue him. And of course there were two bedrooms thanks to Taehyung’s recent stay. It would now be Jungkook’s temporary home.

“This is the bathroom--feel free to borrow my soaps.” Yoongi opened the door next to it. “This is your room. Sorry about the boxes. I wasn’t expecting company, but the bed’s comfortable or at least Tae hasn’t ever complained.”

Jungkook stared at his feet playing with his fraying sleeves. The kid really wasn’t making this easy. Yoongi worried his lip between his teeth. Jungkook hadn’t said anything since mumbling his name just nodding his head, and it was driving Yoongi bonkers.

“I’m going to cook dinner. You should take a shower.” Yoongi scurried into his room grabbing a clean towel from the laundry basket, a t-shirt the brat left behind, and a pair of sweatpants - hopefully the pants were long enough. He shoved the items at Jungkook and ushered him into the bathroom. Jungkook clutched at the clothes to his chest, as Yoongi started the shower. If he didn’t, Yoongi was sure the kid wouldn’t use it.

Once that was done, Yoongi returned to the kitchen and opened the fridge only to glare at the takeaway container. His original plan wasn’t going to work now. He slammed the door shut and stabbed at the preheat buttons on the oven. It was already nearing 9pm. Yoongi wasn’t an incapable cook, no matter what Jin said, but it was too late to cook an actual meal. Yoongi sighed, guess he would miss tomorrow’s market too. He couldn’t leave Jungkook in the house by himself and he definitely couldn’t bring him to a busy market. The kid was traumatized after all. Yoongi shook out the pizza from its box onto a baking sheet. He’ll feed Jungkook a nutritious meal tomorrow and--Yoongi noted the bare shelves of his kitchen-- maybe go to the store too.

The shower turned off just as Yoongi started the timer. Soon Yoongi could eat then go to bed. Jungkook ducked inside the kitchen, hunched into himself. Yoongi ignored the odd behavior  and shoved a plate of pizza into his arms. He took his own plate and plopped onto the couch turning on some random reality show.

Yoongi sighed again, when Jungkook just stood in the doorway. “Well, come on.”

Jungkook shuffled into the living room. Like Yoongi expected, his pants ended up being long shorts on the hybrid, but the shirt fit okay, if not a little snug around his shoulders. Why did everyone have to be so big? Yoongi patted the cushion beside him, but the stray was frozen in the corner. Yoongi took a bite of steaming pizza turning back to the TV. Jungkook wasn’t going to change in a few hours of Yoongi’s attention, no that would be something his new owners would have to deal with.

Halfway through the show, the couch dipped beside Yoongi.

XX

The apartment was quiet, not the deathly quiet Jungkook was used to but still painful. Jungkook tossed in the bed again stifling a groan in the pillow. Pain shot through his ribs. This wasn’t working. He huffed glaring at the bright green numbers of the clock. 3:34am.

The man - Yoongi - went to bed six hours ago, and Jungkook had yet to fall asleep. He doubted that he would. When Yoongi turned off the TV, Jungkook jumped off the sofa and sprinted to ‘his’ room. He sat on the bed staring at the door, but Yoongi never came in, never locked the door nor tied him to the bed. Jungkook sat for an hour listening to the water in the bathroom turn off and on before the door squeaked open and another thumped closed. Six hours later and the human has not moved from his room.

Six hours and Jungkook couldn’t help staring at the door. Without a lock on the outside, he could run. Yoongi wasn’t very good at keeping hybrids. Didn’t he know that Jungkook could escape at any moment? Didn’t he know that Jungkook could fight him without restraints? Jungkook could open the bedroom door, run through the apartment door and return to the streets. So why didn’t he?

Jungkook nuzzled the soft blanket. He hadn’t touched something so soft in years and the bed was soft, even if the mattress pressed against his bruises as it cradled him. No matter how luxurious the bed felt, the silence creeped in on him. He tried to blink away the sleep dragging down his eyelids.Jungkook couldn’t count how many sleepless nights he’d spent keeping watch over his corner of an alley, but sleep did not nag him then like it did now. But he couldn’t sleep. Jungkook rubbed his eyes. He had to keep watch. Yoongi could come in at any moment. It didn’t matter if he hadn’t heard even a rumple of sheets in the past six hours. Humans were fickle, vicious creatures. They could reach out to stroke your ears and then yank you across the room by your tail in the next.

Jungkook’s ears perked. If he could just keep track of Yoongi, then he could sleep. Jungkook rolled out of bed, ignoring the flare of pain, to wrap the soft blanket around his shoulders and stuff a pillow under his arm. He could feel his heart pounding in his throat. What if this was a trick? His knuckles turned white around the doorknob. No. Yoongi hasn’t moved in seven hours, and anyway Jungkook’s teeth could rip off his arm if it meant escape. He opened the door. Without making any sound, Jungkook crept down the short hallway. Only a door separated them now. Jungkook’s ear flattened against it. The soft raspy sound of breathing floated in from the other side. Yoongi was in his room and Jungkook could know when he left. Jungkook curled up on the floor tucking his tail between his legs.

XX

Yoongi smacked his nightstand. With a thump, his phone feel to the floor, but at least his alarm stopped. He rubbed his face into his pillow. Maybe he could suffocate this morning. No. He groaned pushing himself off the bed. Then who would take care of Jungkook?

Yoongi pulled on a pair of sweatpants over the boxers he slept in. He did not expect to trip over a cat-hybrid as soon as he opened his bedroom door, but that’s exactly what happened. Yoongi stumbled, arms stretched out to brace himself so he wouldn’t pummel the kid. “Fuck.” Yoongi held his breath, as Jungkook’s black speckled ears twitched in his hair, but he didn’t move. His breath even and smooth, still curled into himself.

He’ll let the hybrid sleep a little longer while his coffee brewed, decided Yoongi. Yoongi wished he could let Jungkook sleep longer, but he didn’t dare leave the stray alone in his apartment all day. No, Jungkook would be coming with him to his flower shop.

God, why did he own a flower shop? Yoongi rubbed his eyes trying to refocus his eyes. It’s so early. Yoongi sighed cupping his warm mug. The bitter sweetness of coffee washed over him. He set in on the counter to cool and went back to the hallway. Jungkook groaned, his black tail flicking against the door with a soft thump. Yoongi knelt beside him. His hands floundered over the boy. He hadn’t woken anyone up since college. He hovered over Jungkook’s head. The hybrid  yawned, sharp teeth gleaming. Maybe not. Yoongi tentatively grazed his hand along Jungkook’s spine. His fingers could count each notch. Poor kid.

“Jungkook,” he whispered rubbing his back.

The hybrid stretched his long body. Why was he so tall? His back arched brushing Yoongi’s knee. Jungkook froze. He shot up as if struck by lightning crouching low and defensive. Yoongi lurched backwards. Jungkook’s shiny teeth bared at him, a growl ripped from his throat. Yoongi didn’t move, barely breathed for fear of setting off the stray. He had to do one nice thing and now it’s going to kill him.

“It’s,” Yoongi hesitated as Jungkook growled again, “time to go to work. I have to take care of the shop.” Yoongi watched as Jungkook’s body relaxed, each muscle losing it’s predatory tension. He hoped he could talk the humanity back into Jungkook. “You can come with me and relax in my office while I work, but I can’t leave you here alone.”

The hybrid’s tail curled around his leg finally no longer stiff. “Okay,” Jungkook mumbled pulling back into himself. He tried to melt into the floor.

Without thinking, Yoongi reached out to pat his head. The hybrid flinched at the contact, squeezing his eyes shut as if he expected to be hit. Yoongi sighed running his hand through the boy’s black hair one last time before standing. The kid just needed some affection and food, and Yoongi would give it to him, just until Namjoon had space then Jungkook could get adopted and get all of the love and attention he deserved.

XX

The shop didn’t change overnight, not that Yoongi thought it would. But the events of last night flipped his life around, and Yoongi hoped that maybe the shop would look different somehow in the soft morning light. It didn’t. The bell chimed as he unlocked the door. He flipped on the lights. All of the plants looked the same. All standing proud in their pots, ready to show off their colors. The only difference was the skewed pots on the table Jungkook hid under last night.

Yoongi pulled up the blinds of the front windows letting the soft morning light in, waking up the flowers. He then went through his normal morning routine--turning on the water hose, showering the plants with their morning mist, scooping out some fertilizer for his recovering plants. The pattern was one that he had been doing for years. The rhythm and timing perfectly honed settling into his bones.

The smell of dirt rushed in as he opened the greenhouse in the back. He donned the dark blue apron and grey gloves before digging through some mulch. Once it was mixed he grabbed a glass jar. It was Thursday, so Ahjumma would be in for her mulch. He sealed the bucket before scooping some rich soil on top, and closed the jar giving it a good shake. Ahjumma did not mess around when it came to her little garden. He checked the saplings that came in a few days ago. Trees were a new area for him, but they seemed to be rooting well. Yoongi locked up the back room tucking his gloves in the front pocket of his apron.

He placed the jar by the register and checked the clock. Ten minutes till opening, just enough to get the register set. He flitted to the office’s safe, counted the money, and sorted it into the register. Yoongi jerked as a screech filled the air. His heart jumped into his throat.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry,” Jungkook babbled in the corner.

It was just a table being moved. Yoongi sighed in relief, when he didn’t see any pots smashed on the ground, but still he went to inspect any damage. Jungkook cowered with every step Yoongi took. He crouched into a little ball, tears streaming down the cat-hybrid’s face. Jungkook’s words cracked, as he began to sob apologies. Yoongi rushed to him, kneeling on the concrete floor. He’d probably have bruises later. Yoongi peeled away the boy’s hands from his face, wiping the tears off his round cheeks. Big brown doe eyes blinked back at him. Jungkook whimpered clenching his hands in his lap. Yoongi couldn’t take it. The look too similar to his dongsaeng’s when their heart is crushed. He pulled the hybrid into his arms. He could be a little late to open today. Yoongi shushed Jungkook rubbing his back.

“I’m not mad.” Yoongi tried to assure him.

Jungkook sobbed into Yoongi’s warm neck pulling himself closer. Yoongi simply let the boy climb into his lap and laid his check against his head rocking them back and forth like a child. Jungkook clutched at his shirt. His long black tail circling Yoongi’s waist, as if returning the embrace.

Yoongi didn’t know how much time had passed as shadows of business men and women walked by the shop. No one stopped. The door still locked and sign flipped to ‘closed’. Jungkook needed this cry more than some boss buying a bouquet for his secretary.

Jungkook sniffled nuzzling into Yoongi’s neck. His breath finally evened out and sobs no longer ripping from his throat. Yoongi hugged him closer. Jungkook fully straddling him.

“I’m not going to hurt you,” Yoongi promised. “No one will hurt you anymore.”

Jungkook nodded into his shoulder, too comfortable to move.

A knock rattled on the door. Yoongi tried to see over the table, but didn’t want to dislodge Jungkook. It was probably Ahjumma. Jungkook peeled himself away from Yoongi. Yoongi groaned, his knees popping as he stood.

Yoongi took Jungkook’s hand and led him to the office. “This isn’t a punishment, but if you want to relax here and join me later in the shop, you can. I just need to open the shop.”

Jungkook didn’t fight him, as Yoongi guided him into the plush office chair and covered him in a blanket. Yoongi also switched the radio on, filling the room with soft music. An atmosphere Yoongi had used more than once for a nap. Being his own boss had some benefits.

“I’m not punishing you,” Yoongi repeated petting the soft cat ears. Jungkook leaned into the touch making him smile. He was vastly different from this morning. “You are allowed to explore the shop. Jungkook,” the hybrid opened his eyes staring up at Yoongi, “do you understand?” Jungkook nodded pulling the blanket higher to cover half of his face. “Good.” Yoongi left the office to let Ahjumma in.

XX

A low rumble startled Jungkook awake. The noise stuttered for a moment before picking up again. He peered out from under the warm blanket, but the office was empty. With his skinny tail, he flicked the computer mouse, but the screen didn’t turn on. The noise stopped as Jungkook frowned in confusion.

He ducked under the blanket again burrowing in the warmth. He was completely curled up on the large office chair -- his knees to his chest, his arms tucked in the blanket and a hole that was perfect for his head. He hadn’t felt this warm in months, or even years. His head nestled into his cave, and he closed his eyes. The rumble started again, but it was louder now. Was his chest vibrating? Jungkook froze. He was...purring. He was the noise! He stared wide-eyed at his chest as it continued. Jungkook couldn’t remember the last time he purred. It had to be back when he was in the Center. The purr cut off as he huffed.

Yoongi was...nice. But humans were like that, they pretended to be nice and caring before chaining him up to a wall in the dark corner of the house. No, Jungkook hadn’t purred in a very long time, and Yoongi sure didn’t deserve to be the one to cause it. He didn’t cause it, Jungkook reassured himself. It’s just because he’s warm and on a soft cushion. Jungkook sighed resting his cheek on his knee ignoring the stinging pain of a bruise.

Jungkook was very tempted to spend the rest of his hours sequestered in the office, but Yoongi promised him that he could leave. Something about the way the human held him made Jungkook want to believe him. Jungkook felt hot at the memory of his outburst. God, he was pathetic. No wonder Master kept him away, and Yoongi -- all of his hard work to fight the human off and he just had to cry. Jungkook winced as he brushed the little crusties out of his eyes. He didn’t want to see Yoongi again, but if he was going to learn how cruel Yoongi is, Jungkook better find out now.

Jungkook unfolded himself out of the chair wadding up the blanket. He stretched his arms up groaning through the pain spiking through his chest from the bruised ribs and sleeping on the floor. The door creaked, as Jungkook peered into the main room. He couldn’t see Yoongi, but he could hear him. A rough low hum filled the room. Jungkook didn’t think to stop the door from slamming shut before it was too late.

“Jungkook,” Yoongi called out.

Jungkook cleared his scratchy throat. “Y-yes,” he croaked.

“Just making sure it was you.” The water switched on again. Jungkook almost missed the low singing even if it was incredibly off tune.

The front room of the flower shop reminded Jungkook of the pictures he’s seen of the jungle in the library. Green was everywhere. Green vines, green leaves, green pots, green grass. Of course, there were other colors too, especially toward the door where it looked like the rainbow exploded into flowers. Weaving through the storefront, Jungkook could finally hide. He wasn’t good at hiding. He was too tall, too pretty and too...cat. If his pretty face didn’t call attention, then the black and brown speckled ears at the top of his head or the black tail swishing behind him did. But in this greenery Jungkook felt like a jaguar.

He knew his animal half was just a domestic house cat, but he always dreamed of being something else -- a dangerous predator who could fight off every attacker. He peered through the vines stalking Yoongi’s every movement. The human didn’t notice as Jungkook matched him step for step. Yoongi continued to check his plants, wiping excess dirt off the tables. The human didn’t say anything, didn’t call out to Jungkook. He simply worked, as if Jungkook wasn’t there.

Jungkook sighed ducking behind a fern, as Yoongi glanced over his shoulder. He’s been stalking Yoongi for hours now. But following the human just didn’t hold the same excitement it did before. Yoongi hasn’t lashed out at him for nudging pots out of line with his tail, simply rolling his eyes as Yoongi straightened it again. He didn't reach out to hit him, when Jungkook followed behind a little too closely. Yoongi even gave him an entire container of yogurt at lunch. But Jungkook was bored, and his body ached with pain. Yoongi never said he couldn’t go back to the office, so Jungkook scurried inside softly closing the door behind him before curling up in the office chair again.

XX

“I’m sure she’ll enjoy the bouquet,” Yoongi said handing the man his receipt. The business man smiled thanking him again. The bell dinged behind him as he left the shop. It was only 5:30pm. The shop should be open for another hour or so. Yoongi couldn’t help but pout. He was already getting hungry. All he had was that stupid yogurt for lunch for him and Jungkook. The kid was already starving and Yoongi couldn’t even give him a proper meal. So, he pulled out his phone.

To: Namjin

We are coming for dinner tonight.

From: Jin

See you soon.

Yoongi dropped his phone beside the register. He was alone in the shop. Granted, he was usually alone in the shop, but Jungkook had returned to the office a few hours ago after trailing behind him for most of the day. Yoongi smiled. The hybrid thought he was so sneaky.

Today had been so odd. 24-hours ago, Yoongi would have scoffed if you told him he was contemplating closing early after opening late. He was potentially losing out on hundreds of won that could be sold to boyfriends late to their dates or husbands walking by after work. Yesterday, he wouldn’t consider it, but today, today he had a hybrid to take care of.

No one was in the shop so he took his chance. Yoongi shuffled across the shop, began pulling the blinds down the windows, and flipped his open sign over. Guess he was closing early.

Once the shop was all ready for the night, Yoongi went to the office. Yoongi couldn’t fight the smile tugging on his lips at the sight of Jungkook’s tall body curled up on the office chair. Only the twitching of his ears was the only sign that the hybrid was aware of his surroundings. The rest of his face was hidden by the scratchy wool blanket. Yoongi put the money from the register into the safe. His eyes caught sight of the down turned picture frame on his desk. It had moved with him for almost a decade now. Sometimes, especially those first few years, he wanted to throw it against the wall, shatter it like his heart. Yoongi brushed his hand against the cold metal. He couldn’t let go.

A whine tore his attention back to Jungkook. His long sleek tail thumping against the arm of the chair. Yoongi hated waking up anyone from a nap. He was a true believer in the power of sleep, and Jungkook could use all of its healing powers, but he also needed a good meal. Yoongi reached out carding his fingers through Jungkook’s thick black hair. Jungkook grumbled pulling the blanket higher. Yoongi chuckled but continued to caress Jungkook’s velvety cat ears, like he’s seen Namjoon do countless times.

“Jungkook,” Yoongi whispered. He really didn’t want to disturb him, but if Yoongi was hungry, then Jungkook must be starving--in more ways than one. “It’s time for dinner.” Doe brown eyes peeked out from over the blanket. Yoongi dropped his hand not wanting to irritate the hybrid. “Are you hungry? Namjoon invited us to dinner. You remember him right?” Jungkook didn’t move, simply blinked at him. “He’s the doctor that helped you yesterday.”

Jungkook unfolded from the chair almost falling out. The chair creaked as his long, lithe body stretched shaking off the sleep. The hybrid didn’t say a word. He hadn’t really spoken to Yoongi at all. Maybe Yoongi should ask Namjoon about it. Not that he wanted to solve all of the kid’s problems, that would be for Namjoon and the people who adopt him. But basic communication would just make living together easier, no matter how temporary.

Jungkook was Yoongi’s shadow. Yoongi could feel him matching every step, as they walked the streets of Seoul to Namjoon’s. Jungkook didn’t complain even as he started to pant. Yoongi clenched his fists. Guilt sank heavy in his stomach. He should have shoved the hybrid onto the bus and met him at Namjoon and Jin’s, but Yoongi didn’t know if Jungkook knew how the bus system worked. Yoongi sure as hell didn’t. The last time Yoongi stepped into a subway station ended in complete disaster. He couldn’t imagine what it would be like if he got on a bus . Jungkook had bruised ribs. Yoongi cursed himself with every wheezing breath Jungkook took. Fuck, life would be easier if he could just get over it .

It was only two minutes, but it felt like a million years when Yoongi saw the shelter’s sign. Namjoon and Jin lived next door, only seconds away if any hybrid or night staff needed them. Jungkook pressed closer into Yoongi never taking his eyes off the shelter’s main doors as if they’d open and snatch him away. He stood a hairbreadth away as Yoongi punched in the security code. Jungkook didn’t give an inch crowding the human into the elevator of the apartment building. Jungkook’s chest heaved. Yoongi could feel each hot breath on the back of his neck. Without thinking, he reached behind rubbing soothing circles onto the back of Jungkook’s hand. The hybrid’s breathing slowed into calm beats.

Namjoon opened the door for them. His dimples on display in their shining glory. He welcomed Yoongi and Jungkook into their home.

The heady smell of food hit Yoongi in the face as soon as he followed Namjoon into the apartment. Yoongi stopped to breathe in the spices. It smelled like home. He stumbled as his shadow, Jungkook, bumped into him, clinging to his back. Yoongi quickly caught them, stopping from face planting on Jin’s nice carpet. All he needed was a lecture from Jin as he cleaned blood out of the soft, white carpet. Jin had it installed last year. It was much more comfortable to lay on, or at least that's what he was told.

Once steadied, Jungkook continued to clench the sides of Yoongi’s t-shirt. Yoongi tried not to stumble as he toed off his shoes and slipped on the Kumamon slippers set out for him. It must have been comical - Yoongi turning into the hybrid’s shield, even though Jungkook was at least a head taller than him. It didn't stop Jungkook from hiding.

Namjoon didn’t comment on the behavior, just smiled and held out a pair of grey house slippers for Jungkook. Jungkook’s thin arms snatched them out of his hands. Yoongi could feel him holding them. Their soles brushing against Yoongi’s back. Yoongi huffed turning around to take the slippers from Jungkook's hands. He dropped them to the floor and tapped Jungkook's leg. He lifted each leg as Yoongi slipped them on his feet. Pink dusted the hybrid’s cheeks, but he didn't push the human away.

“Jin is so excited to meet you, Jungkook,” said Namjoon.

“He is?” The hybrid’s voice cracked from lack of use.

“Of course! Why don't you go in the kitchen and see him? Just follow your nose.”

Finally Jungkook fully stepped out from the shelter of Yoongi’s back. He crept through the living room, like Namjoon and Yoongi would yank him back scolding him after urging him to go. Yoongi didn’t want to think of how that behavior came about, but it didn’t stop the small smile creeping across his face as Jungkook’s long agile tail flicked at the door before disappearing into Jin’s haven.

“Come on,” Namjoon said plopping down on the couch. “He’ll be fine.”

Yoongi huffed. Of course, Namjoon could read him like an open book. He knew Jungkook was in good hands, better hands than his even, but he still wanted to follow him to make sure he wasn't terrified or had a panic attack. The day had been terrible for Jungkook as it is. It didn't matter that reasonably Yoongi knew he would be fine. Jin was more capable of taking care of Jungkook but it didn’t stop Yoongi from tapping his toes. “I know.” Yoongi added a scowl just to make sure his point got across sprawling out beside his friend.

“I'm intrigued.” Yoongi didn't bother to reply just raising an eyebrow. Namjoon would continue without prompting. In the right company, Namjoon had a motor mouth and couldn't shut up. God forbid, he smoked a little weed. “Jungkook is very attached to you, but really you are no more a stranger than I. It's very curious.”

“Well, it doesn't matter. He’ll be in the shelter soon.”

“If that's what you want…”

“I don't want a hybrid, Namjoon.”

“Sure you don't.”

“ Namjoon ,” Yoongi sneered. He was toeing into dangerous territory.

“Fine, fine.” Namjoon surrendered. “You aren't a robot, even if you try to convince the world you are. You do have a heart.”

Yoongi swore under his breath trying not to punch Namjoon. He tried to remember why he was even friends with such a dumbass, IQ score or not.

“How's the shop?” Namjoon switched to their normal conversation.

XXX

Jungkook was stalk still by the door, his tail curling around his leg. The tall man, who must be Jin, stood at the stove stirring a large pot, but it couldn't be right. Nestled in pink hair were two pointed, white, cat ears. A hybrid was cooking, not only was he cooking but also humming as if he was...happy. His long white fluffy tail swished behind him as Jin reached into the spice cabinet.

“I know you’re there.” Jungkook jumped pressing himself against the hard edge of the door frame. Jin didn’t comment at the sight of the cowering hybrid. He smiled softly at the boy before beckoning Jungkook to him. “Stand here.” Jin nudged his shoulders to stand before the boiling pot. “Here.” He shoved a wooden spoon in his hands showing him how to gently stir the soup. “Perfect.” Jin pat his head.

Jungkook ducked his head but continued to stir. Jin turned from him to start on the dishes, his tail brushing against Jungkook's back. Jungkook wanted to melt at the feather touch. How could Jin be so relaxed? Didn't he know what humans did? He had to tell him before Jin did something wrong. Jungkook didn’t want to be here for Jin’s punishment.

“Jin-ssi, I -”

“Jin-hyung,” corrected Jin.

“Jin-hyung,” Jungkook started again barely stirring the bubbling soup. “You can't -- you can't act like this.”

Jin frowned but it didn’t take away the beauty from his face. “Like how, Jungkookie?”

“Like,” Jungkook's anxiety clawed at his throat. How did he not see it? “Like you own this kitchen. It belongs to your owner, not you.” Jungkook pulled at the sleeves of the large hoodie Yoongi gave him, picking at the seams.

“Jungkook,” murmured Jin, pulling the trembling hybrid into his arms. “Namjoon won't hurt me.”

Jungkook jerked away. “Yes, he will. They-they do. Humans can't help it, and they call us the animals.”

Jin said his name again stepping closer, but Jungkook only fled backwards into the hot stove. His elbows knocking against a pan. It clanged to the floor. Hot food seared Jungkook's skin. He hissed but Jin grabbed him before he could do more damage. Yoongi sprinted around the corner making a bee-line for Jungkook. Yoongi's pale hands cupped his face.

“What happened? Are you okay?” Yoongi whipped around to glare at Jin. “Is he okay?”

“It's all my fault,” laughed Jin brushing off the incident. “You know how clumsy I am.”  Yoongi wanted to correct him. He didn't live with Namjoon for six years and not learn that Namjoon is the clumsy one in the household. Jin moved with grace, always one step behind to catch every mug that slipped from Namjoon’s fingers.

“Hyung!”

Yoongi jumped at Jungkook's outburst turning back to the boy.

“It's okay, Jungkook. Accidents happen,” said Jin.

“No,” pleaded Jungkook. Tears gathered in his eyes. He didn’t want to see someone else be punished for his actions.

Yoongi wrapped his arms around the crying boy. Jungkook whimpered, torn between pulling away and nestling closer. Yoongi rubbed his back until the hybrid was only sniffling and took the warm wash cloth Jin offered as he cleaned around the pair. Jungkook blinked back tears as Yoongi dabbed the cloth at his face. He shied away, but Yoongi's warm hand on the back of his neck held him still. It wasn't a tight grip. Jungkook could easily pull away, but the soft petting through his baby hairs made him want to lean into the touch.

Yoongi's gruff voice soothed his ears and heart. “I promised remember. No one will hurt you.”

“But-but Jin-hyung,” Jungkook whined. Another hand stroked his cat ear. Jungkook peered at Jin through his clumped eyelashes.

“Let's get you cleaned up. We have some talking to do,”Jin said.

Jungkook's heart leaped into his throat. He didn't want to leave Yoongi, but the human was already pulling away. His black tail latched around Yoongi's wrist trying to keep him close, to soothe the tension clamping down on his nerves. He didn’t want to leave. He didn’t want to be alone. Don’t make him go alone. But Yoongi didn’t hear his silent pleas.

Yoongi peeled Jungkook off of him, passing the boy over to Jin. “I'll be right here,” Yoongi said, as if words were supposed to mean something as he gave Jungkook away. Jin nestled the hybrid into his side. Jungkook didn't stop staring at Yoongi until he was out of sight. The human didn't give him the same courtesy, turning to begin cleaning up the spilt food.

Jin didn’t say anything as he sat Jungkook down on the closed toilet seat in the large white bathroom connected to the master suite. Jungkook didn’t speak, didn’t know what to say. It seemed like every word he said soured as it touched his tongue. Jin leaned over the tub filling it with warm water. Jungkook curled up pulling his knees to his chest to watch Jin. His long muscular back bent over the tub. How did he get so big? Jungkook saw himself in Yoongi's mirror the night before. He knew his bones protruded against his skin as if they were about to break through the thin barrier, but jin was a cat-hybrid like him and he was strong. His hard muscles stretched as he moved around the bathroom picking up towels, setting aside bottles. Jungkook had never seen a strong hybrid before, even in the Center the hybrids were fed to be skinny not strong.

Jin sprinkled a few drips from a bottle before swirling his hand in the warm water. He smiled at Jungkook. Jin took his hand and helped him out of Yoongi's stained clothes and into the tub. The surface bubbled with foam, but Jin didn't seem alarmed so Jungkook didn’t say anything.

“Is it okay if I help you bathe?” Jin asked. Jungkook just stared at the bubbles forming and nodded. Jin hummed a little tune as he poured water over his back. His skillful hands caught Jungkook's swishing tail and urged it in the water too. Jungkook huffed, but Jin only patted his head. “We have to get you all clean.” Jungkook closed his eyes falling prey to his relaxing body.

“Have you met humans before Yoongi and Namjoon?”

Jungkook nodded.

“And they hurt you.”

It wasn't a question but Jungkook still nodded. Jin's artist fingers massaged the shampoo into his scalp. Citrus filled Jungkook's nose. He leaned into the touch.

“I'm sorry.”

Jin didn’t need to apologize. He hadn’t hurt Jungkook, only helped him. He'd never been hurt by hybrids before, not like the humans have. Warm water cascaded down his body in a soapy waterfall. Jin covered each of his cat ears as he rinsed the shampoo.

“Some humans are very bad, and the things they did to you were wrong. You didn't deserve it.”

“You don't know that,” Jungkook mumbled.

With a single finger, Jin urged Jungkook to look at him. His eyes were warm and soft. “Oh Jungkookie, but I do. You are so good, and they were very bad.”

“How?”  How do you know I'm good? But the words clogged his throat.

“Because Yoongi takes care of you,” Jin said simply, as if Yoongi was to be trusted, as if his judgement could be law. “Yoongi and Namjoon are good too. And I'm sure you'll see it in Tae as well. They don't hurt other people or hybrids, and Namjoon helps all hybrids, even me.”

“You?” Jin picked up the soap scrubbing Jungkook's body. Jungkook let him. He could easily snatch it from him. He was 21 after all. He could wash himself.

“Even me. I was a stray once too, you know, but Namjoon-ah found me, took care of me and loved me.”

“Like Yoongi.” The water splashed over the edge as his hands covered his mouth. He didn’t mean for the words to slip out.

“Yes, like Yoongi.”

Jin didn’t speak again as he finished washing him, letting Jungkook process all that he told him. Trusting a human, the thought made Jungkook prickle in fear. Humans were vicious and fickle beings. But trusting Yoongi...Yoongi didn’t push him away and when panic gripped him by the throat, Yoongi was there to soothe it all away. Maybe Yoongi was good, like Jin said. Humans couldn't be trusted. Jungkook was sure of this, but perhaps Yoongi could be.

Jin led Jungkook through the motions: toweling him off, blow drying his tail (jungkook grumbling the entire time. He didn’t want to wash it in the first place), dressing him in new clothes (although they fit better, jungkook missed the subtle earthy scent in Yoongi's clothes).

Jungkook shuffled behind Jin back to the kitchen. He was surprised to see Yoongi puttering around keeping everything in order while Jin was away.

“You didn't burn anything,” said Jin checking over the soup.

“You say that like I don't know how to cook. I do feed myself, you know,” grumbled Yoongi as he stood on his tiptoes to grab the rice bowls.

“I do know that I feed you twice a week and send leftovers with you each time.” Jin bumped Yoongi aside. Jungkook stood in shock at the action hiding away by the door as the human and hybrid bantered back and forth as they finished cooking dinner.

XXX

Yoongi could feel Jungkook watching his every movement as he cooked with Jin. Was this how his other owners had him--standing in the background like a decoration to be seen but not heard? Anger burned in his stomach. If he ever found those people, he'd make sure they sat on a cactus. It hurt like a bitch and well, Yoongi wasn't the strongest person around, but he was to be feared or at least that's what the brat claimed. As Jin put the finishing touches on the food-- thankfully only a side dish was knocked over in the fiasco--Yoongi led Jungkook's to the table. The hybrid hesitated for only a second before gluing to Yoongi's side. The action warmed Yoongi. It had only been 24-hours but the stray was slowly warming up to him.

The conversation at dinner was nice. Namjoon and Jin talking flowed over him like a comforting blanket. If everything in his life changed, those two stayed the same. Yoongi barely contributed but it didn’t faze them. They were used to carrying the conversation, especially in those bad days where getting to the table was hard enough for Yoongi.

Yoongi's focus was on the hybrid next to him. After a few minutes of not picking up his spoon, Jungkook shoveled the food down. If it were anything other than a hearty soup, Yoongi would have feared Jungkook would choke. He watched as a bit of the soup dribbled down his chin. Yoongi didn't think (he did that a lot around Jungkook). Reaching for his napkin he dabbed at the broth dripping down the hybrid's chin. Jungkook's spoon froze halfway to his mouth in shock. His mouth hung open, but Yoongi didn't notice too caught up in cleaning the hybrid with a small smile on his face.

“You can slow down,” smiled Yoongi. He patted the nape of Jungkook's neck. “We aren't going to take the food away.” Jungkook's face flamed red hot. He didn’t notice he was eating faster than the others. It just tasted too good.

“I'll send lots of leftovers home with you,” smiled Jin as he stretched across the table to spoon more rice into Jungkook's bowl. “You need as much nutrients as possible.” Jungkook took a slow bite. He only got encouraging smiles from around the table as he continued to eat. Yoongi's reassuring hand on his neck.

XXX

Yoongi wasn't surprised to find the cat-hybrid sleeping in front of his bedroom door the next morning, nor the morning after that. By the fourth day, he didn’t think anything of it, as he stepped over Jungkook, besides making a mental note to maybe buy a cushion. Jin had mentioned that there were some large pillows for hybrids who liked to sleep on the floor. He also gave him the business card to the place where he got his own soft carpet.

Yoongi hummed as he made his morning coffee. Today was going to be a good day, but for him every Monday was a good day. Monday and Tuesday was his weekend. Since the shop was open Saturday and Sunday and it was financially stable, Yoongi closed Sugar Petals in the beginning of the week. He needed some sort of weekend too.

The warm smell of coffee brought the hybrid shuffling into the kitchen. His blanket still wrapped around him like a cape. Jungkook hadn't been here for a week, but somehow he squeezed his way into Yoongi's life.

“Hyung,” Jungkook whined resting his chin on Yoongi's shoulder.

Yoongi's heart swelled as Jungkook became more like an  octopus instead of cat, clinging to him. The hybrid has really given him a chance and that trust had translated into a sleepy, clingy cat. Yoongi patted Jungkook's hands that were wrapped around his waist holding him in a back hug before pouring his coffee. Jungkook's breath warmed his neck, his breathing evening out and the low rumble of his purr filled the air as the hybrid fell back to sleep. Yoongi chuckled. He reached up to pet Jungkook's hair. He was doing so much better now. Jungkook still had panic attacks, but they only came once a day instead of multiple times, and he was slowly gaining weight. Soon, he'd make a great companion for someone.

“Jungkook.” Yoongi patted his head again, but the hybrid just nuzzled closer. “Come on. We have to get going.” Still nothing. Yoongi stroked the hybrid's tail that was curled around Yoongi's thigh. Jungkook groaned his name, but Yoongi didn't stop poking until Jungkook peeled off of him. Yoongi laughed to himself as Jungkook shuffled to the bathroom, since his cuddles were rejected.

XXX

Seeing the streets bathed in morning light was odd for Jungkook. Instead of running from the alley he had slept in a week ago, Jungkook followed Yoongi to his flower shop. The streets were empty with only a few trucks and vans pulled up on the sidewalk ready to be unloaded. Jungkook couldn’t help but walk a breath away from Yoongi. He didn’t want to lose him. What if someone snatched Jungkook up and threw him in the pound? He had worked so hard to not end up there. Without a collar or owner, he was vulnerable. Jungkook became Yoongi’s shadow, stalking his every move, even though they have been walking the same route each morning.

Jungkook bounced on the balls of his feet waiting as Yoongi unlocked the frosted front door. He snuggled deeper into Yoongi’s scarf wrapped around his neck, the spicy scent of the human filling his nose. He stilled for a moment relishing the calm that settled over him. Jungkook has been  with Yoongi for six days. Six days and no one has hit him, denied him food, nor locked him away. Jungkook didn’t trust humans. Even the old ahjummas that came into the shop, Jungkook watched with predator eyes. But Yoongi has done so much, and Jin’s words keep running through his mind every time Jungkook wanted to run, to hiss at Yoongi. Yoongi was good. Yoongi could be trusted. Yoongi took care of him, and Jungkook was going to do the same.

Jungkook perched himself on the stool by the register watching as Yoongi flitted through the shop. He reminded Jungkook of a faery from a storybook, taking care of his corner of the forest. Jungkook wished he could remember more of the tale, but all he could recall was a tiny, pale faery working to save the forest from the humans. His hyung was very pale and tiny--well shorter than himself. Maybe Yoongi wasn’t human after all. Maybe him and Namjoon were only faeries in disguise. Jungkook smiled to himself. Hopefully he will meet more faeries soon.

Yoongi shut off the water hose and coiled it up once again. Jungkook was about to hop up, like he always did, and head to the office so Yoongi could open the register, but instead of walking to the office, Yoongi stretched reaching up to the ceiling. A groan escaping. Yoongi then began turning off the lights. What was he doing?

“Hyung?” Jungkook called to him.

“It’s Monday, Jungkook,” Yoongi said, as if that should answer every question.

Jungkook hunched over his tail wrapping it around his waist. This was it. This was when Yoongi’s human nature came out.

“Hey, hey,” Yoongi petted his black hair. The hybrid looked at him through his bangs. Confusion clouding his doe eyes. Jungkook sighed as Yoongi’s fingers found that spot behind his cat ears, but still his back tensed, waiting for the hit. “The shop doesn’t open on Mondays, so we are done for the day.”

“Really?” Jungkook melted at Yoongi’s words.

“Really. Have you been to a mall, Jungkook?”

“No.” He had heard of them of course, seen pictures when he was training at the Center, but never had he stepped foot in one.

XXX

The mall was too much. Jungkook huddled behind Yoongi, occasionally stepping on the back of his shoes making the human stumble. Jungkook mumbled an apology but remained glued to Yoongi. His hands clenched around the back of his shirt. There were too many humans in the mall, which made sense since it was for humans, but Jungkook didn’t understand why he had to come with Yoongi. Hybrids weren’t even allowed here. It was a human place.

They stumbled through the crowded halls. Jungkook refused to look around. Keeping his eyes only on the white and black lines of Yoongi’s shirt. He had to hide. What would the humans do if they notice him? He pulled his hat down his forehead a little more. His ears were sweltering now that Yoongi and him were inside, but it was too risky to take off his hat.

It had been years since Yoongi had been to a mall and it was only slightly as horrible as he remembered—granted most of his memories were from high school, but still...Yoongi trudged ahead guiding Jungkook through the maze of stores. Naver said the store would be...right...here. Hybrid Plus, just what they needed.

Yoongi stepped inside and slowly pried Jungkook’s gloved fingers from his shirt before turning to face the cat hybrid. Jungkook coward in his jacket, only his amber eyes could be seen over his coat. The instinctive action made his heart ache.

“Hey,” Yoongi reached out for his hand tugging him closer as if his proximity could protect the boy from his past. “I will protect you. Always.” As soon as the word slipped out of his mouth, he regretted it. He shouldn’t say things like that. Jungkook isn’t his to make promises to. But looking into his sharp eyes, Yoongi couldn’t help it. Jungkook needed him now. He’ll handle the rest when it comes. Yoongi tugged Jungkook’s hat a bit off of his forehead. “You don’t have to hide.”

Jungkook looked at the floor as pink colored his cheeks.

“Let’s get you some clothes.” Yoongi grabbed his hand and tugged him into the clothing racks. They didn’t need much, but Jungkook needed something of his own.

XXX

Jungkook stared at himself in the mirror. His scrapes were now thin red lines, healing quicker than ever before. Yoongi feeds him well. Let’s him sit at the table even. Jungkook smiled at himself. He swung back to face the door. It was still closed. Good.

The smile split across his face as he played with his tail. His tail that was outside of his clothes. His clothes! He had no idea there were clothes just for hybrids with holes made for his tail. It was nice, even though he tucked his tail under his shirt when outside, but here in Yoongi’s apartment, his tail was free. He really needed to stop smiling. But his clothes were so soft and Yoongi was so nice. He nuzzled into the soft inside of his sweatshirt. The rumbling of a purr vibrated through his chest.

“Jungkook.” Yoongi knocked at his door. “It’s time to go.”

Jungkook shook his legs. He couldn’t let Yoongi hear him purr, let alone see him smile. It wasn't right.

He left his room and met Yoongi by the door. The human was already ready, dressed in a heavy coat, scarf and boots to beat the cold. Jungkook shoved his feet into his new pair of boots. Long delicate fingers pulled a beanie over his hair. Jungkook couldn’t stop the blush that spread across his cheeks as Yoongi fixed his bangs. His heart beat so fast that any hybrid could hear it. Thankfully Yoongi was human. Yoongi didn’t say anything. He rarely did, only when it meant something. Unlike the other humans Jungkook had encountered, Yoongi did not babble on with empty words. His words had meaning.

Making sure his tail was safely tucked under his clothes and curled around his waist, Jungkook followed Yoongi out the door to start their daily routine. Jungkook was glad for their routine. It was unlike any other he had before. At the Center, every minute of his life was planned, when he trained, ate, even peeing was scheduled. Jungkook didn’t get a say in anything. Then followed his first owner, who didn’t have one at all. Jungkook felt the phantom hunger pains clawing at his stomach at the memory. Jungkook did not want to touch the recent memories of living as a stray. Lost in his thoughts, Jungkook did not notice that he had fallen behind. Yoongi was already out the building’s front door. Jungkook jogged to meet him slipping his hand into Yoongi’s. Yoongi squeezed his hand sending a thrill of excitement down his spine before stepping out into the quiet morning.  Dawn arrived painting the dreary concrete street in pale yellows, oranges and piercing blues. It almost made the cold early morning worth it. Almost.

Perched on the countertop as the golden sun bathed the little flower shop, Jungkook watched Yoongi. He liked watching him, especially when Yoongi was working. Yoongi’s emotional walls melted while he watered the flowers, dug his hands into the warm earth. His shoulders relaxed and he smiled easier. It made Jungkook all warm inside to see the transformation.

Over the past few weeks, Jungkook couldn’t quite tamper down the gooey feeling he got everytime he looked at Yoongi. It popped up at the oddest of times: when Yoongi’s nose scrunched up from splashing dish water, when his glasses slid down his nose while reading, or like now, when Yoongi stretched on his tippy toes trying so hard to water the hanging plants without the step-stool, a sliver of pale skin peaking out…Jungkook lived for this feeling. It was a good feeling Jungkook decided a few days ago, lying outside Yoongi’s door. Jungkook welcomed the warmth that filled him as he slid off the counter stalking toward the florist. He reached up, so close he could feel Yoongi’s warmth. Jungkook plucked the watering can from Yoongi’s long fingers. Yoongi huffed but didn’t argue as Jungkook watered the hanging plants.

Jungkook’s speckled cat ears flickered back and forth as Yoongi continued the morning chores. He watered each plant counting to ten in his head before moving to the next one, just like Yoongi told him. His tail swished behind him tapping against Yoongi. Jungkook smiled as Yoongi caught his tail.

“Hyung,” he whined turning around to face him.

Yoongi’s hand stroked the black and gold fur warming his tail and heart. “Brat.”

Jungkook rolled his eyes as Yoongi let go of his tail and returned back to stocking the register. Jungkook didn’t know what overtook him. Maybe it was that mischievous gooey feeling. One minute he was smiling at Yoongi’s back and the next he was in front of him. His tail tapped on Yoongi’s shoulder to get his attention. Maybe it was the sparkle in Yoongi’s eyes as he looked up at Jungkook. Jungkook darted forward, pressing his lips hard against Yoongi’s.

They froze faces inches apart. Jungkook’s heart pounded against his chest. What did he just do? Panic choked him. He just ruined everything. Jungkook spun on his heels racing for the safety of the office.

“Jungkook!” Yoongi’s call bounced off the locked office door.

Chapter Text

Yoongi’s insistent pounding on the office door echoed through the shop. Honestly, if he were any stronger, the hanging pots would be quaking. He had let Jungkook be while the shop was open, but now they needed to go home and talk. He didnt need this right now. Jungkook was temporary. The hybrid shouldn’t feel anything for him. It’d only hurt Jungkook. Fuck, it already had.

“Jungkook,” Yoongi called again at the office door. “Please, let’s just go home. It’s late and you’re probably hungry.” His knuckles ached with dull throbbing pain, as he knocked again. Why wouldn’t Jungkook just come out? “I’m not mad. We can pretend like it never happened.”

Yoongi tapped his lips. The memory of Jungkook’s pressed hard but sweet against his own still lingered. It had been almost ten years since his last kiss, since the last time he was loved.Yoongi shook away the sweet memories locking them away. Jungkook deserved someone worthy of his affection.

“Jungkook.” He raised his fist to knock again. His knuckles red and bruising. Yoongi froze and held his breath as the door knob turned. Sad relief flooded his body like a bucket of ice poured over his head. He just wanted to go home and return to how life was this morning - with Jungkook showing off his new clothes as they opened Sugar Petals for the day.

Long fingers curled around the edge of the door holding it open. Big brown eyes blinked at him. Yoongi wanted to fling the door wide open and pull the hybrid into his arms, but how could he when Yoongi was the source for those red, puffy eyes?

“Are you ready to go home,” asked Yoongi.

Jungkook didn’t answer. The silence strained between them filled with questions that had no answers. Yoongi didn’t know what to do. It wouldn’t be the first time that he was the problem. His heart squeezed tighter and tighter, but what else could he do? Yoongi was always the common factor in other people’s pain.

“Do you want to sleep at Namjoon and Jin’s?

Jungkook flung the door open so fast it almost broke Yoongi’s nose. Yoongi cursed at the throbbing pain clutching his nose.

“Yoongi. Yoongi.” Jungkook’s soft voice broke as tears spilled down his cheeks. He fluttered around Yoongi desperate to repair any damage. “Hyung, I’m sorry. I’m sorry.” He blubbered over and over again. He pawed at Yoongi’s clothes.

Yoongi dabbed at his nose making sure it wasn’t bleeding before cupping Jungkook’s face which was only a breath away from his. Jungkook stuttered to a stop.

“I’m okay.” His thumbs brushed the remaining tears from Jungkook’s round cheeks. He’s been eating well lately. His face swollen from a day of crying. “Let’s go home.”

Yoongi sighed in relief at the sight on the apartment door. They don’t talk about it. Yoongi wasn’t quick enough to grab Jungkook, as the hybrid sprinted for his room. The door slamming behind him. Yoongi stared at the chipped wood cursing every door in existence a fiery death. He rubbed his sore hand. Knocking didn’t work earlier.

Yoongi warmed up leftovers by himself missing Jungkook’s warmth beside him. He threw the chopsticks into the sink. Fuck. He should be used to this damn it. His tiny as shit kitchen felt far too spacious. Jungkook had only been with him for a couple of weeks, yet his silence grated against Yoongi’s ears like nails on a chalkboard. He shouldn’t need him. He couldn’t need anyone. Yoongi clutched at his hair pulling at his grey roots. Fuck. Yoongi snatched the plate of leftovers and got a clean pair of chopsticks before trudging to the hallway.

The overstuffed green couch in his living room always looked inviting. Yoongi spent weeks sitting in couch after couch in search of the perfect one. But tonight the couch’s appeal dimmed, Yoongi just wanted for today to end. He shuffled over to the hybrid’s door, placed the plate on the floor (careful to keep the chopsticks balanced on the edge), knocked, and left for his own room.

Yoongi fell onto his bed hoping his mattress would finally absorb him. How could four seconds have so much power? Four seconds of their lips pressing and bam everything they had built shattered completely. It was all going to shatter one day anyways, when Jungkook joined his permanent family.

He flopped over on his side, his eyes immediately locking with the second drawer of the nightstand. This mess—Yoongi refused to call it heartache—was good. Perfect even. Better it happened now. It was all part of Jungkook’s abandonment issues. That’s exactly what this was. After years of neglect, of course Jungkook would imprint on the first person to treat him with kindness. This wasn’t the beginnings of love. No, love was nasty stuff that only lead to broken psyches. This was Jungkook coping and Yoongi couldn’t fault him for it. Yoongi’s fingers danced on the edge of the drawer. He pulled it open just enough for his hand to fit inside. He refused to look inside, knowing the contents far better than he’d ever admit. His fingers grasped around the metal pendant. No, Yoongi knew what love did, and it wasn’t for him.

XXX

Jungkook jerked awake for the hundredth time that night, but at least it was finally morning. The sunshine glared red behind his eyelids. He couldn’t take it anymore. Jungkook tiptoed across the carpet, his tail tightly wrapped around his leg. He barely breathed, scared to make any noise and get Yoongi’s attention. Jungkook didn’t want to lose the only home he had ever had. He peeked around the door making sure there wasn’t any sign of the human. His empty dinner plate left outside his room was gone, so Yoongi had to be awake. Jungkook scurried to the bathroom. He fell against the door sighing. He made it.

Yoongi was definitely awake. Jungkook could here the quiet shuffling of his slippers against the floor from the bathroom. Jungkook couldn’t stay here no matter how nice it felt to be tucked away safe and sound. Yoongi had to open the shop.

The bathroom door sung his arrival, as it swung open. Jungkook wrinkled his nose, just because he had to leave his hiding spot didn’t mean he was ready to announce it to the world.

Jungkook crept into the empty kitchen preparing his morning cereal. He frowned at the bowl and spoon waiting on the counter. Where was Yoongi? Did he not want to see Jungkook? He hunched into himself. Yoongi was disgusted and didn’t want to see him ever again. Jungkook’s lips trembled. He didn’t want to leave Yoongi. He couldn’t.

Jungkook slumped against the counter his legs suddenly feeling like soggy cereal. Yoongi was the one shining light in his heart. The first human to be so kind to him, but it was more than that. Jungkook was sure. This was very different from his friendship with Jin or Namjoon. No, Yoongi...Yoongi filled him with warmth like a low burning fire—constant and slow burning. Yoongi was special and Jungkook wasn’t finished with him yet.

XXX

The silence hurt Yoongi’s ears.
It wasn’t just the lack of words, but a total void of communication. Jungkook scurried around the edges of Yoongi’s day hiding behind plants and putting tables between them. It was like the first days all over again. Yoongi’s heart ached to watch Jungkook flee from every interaction with him. Just because they couldn’t love each other didn’t mean Yoongi couldn’t still care.

“Ah!” A table screeched across the floor.

Yoongi jumped. “Jungkook!” Yoongi pushed away from the register. Another clang came from the front corner that had Yoongi running. He sprinted around the last table dodging a wobbling pot. Yoongi pushed aside hanging vines. His shop felt like a jungle with how long it took him to reach Jungkook.

Curled in the corner was Jungkook. Yoongi dropped to his knees ignoring the ache of the conceret floor. He petted Jungkook’s soft, black locks. Jungkook’s breath evened with every stroke. He peeked up at him through his bangs.

“Are you hurt?” Yoongi asked.

Jungkook didn’t say anything just cradled his arm tighter to his chest. His entire body was hunched around the injury. Yoongi brushed his hair from his face. He frowned at the tears running rivers down the hybrid’s cheeks.

“Jungkookie, let me help you.”

A beat passed before Jungkook offered Yoongi his hand. The normally soft hand was throbbing red.

“Oh, you poor baby,” Yoongi cooed over him. He cupped Jungkook’s hand gently in his and knew the culprit immediately. “Did the plant scare you?”

Jungkook nodded, lips trembling.

Yoongi held his hand gently as if it would break under the slightest pressure, which wasn’t true at all. The poor hybrid was simply stubbed by the temperamental Pencil Cactus. Yoongi kept it far under the table for a reason and only sold it to experienced gardeners.

“Let’s fix you up in the office.” Yoongi stood guiding the skittish hybrid up. He tugged the hybrid into his side holding Jungkook close as they made their way to the first aid kit in the office.

Jungkook settled into the office chair cradling his hurt hand. Yoongi easily found the kit. This whole thing didn’t feel right to him. Why didn’t Jungkook call for him when he was hurt? Yoongi didn’t like it one bit.

Yoongi kneeled in front of Jungkook with the sting ointment and bandages. Jungkook flinched away from the cold ointment hissing through his clenched teeth, but Yoongi easily coaxed him back into place and applied the rest of the ointment. Jungkook didn’t jerk away, but the little wrinkles between his eyes told Yoongi he was still in pain. Yoongi wrapped his hand and gave him pain relievers. Still Jungkook didn’t speak..

Yoongi couldn’t take it anymore. They couldn’t keep living like this. Yoongi refused to be a dark cloud in Jungkook’s life. He placed his hands on Jungkook’s knees anchoring him to the chair. Fear clouded Jungkook’s big brown eyes.

“Jungkookie,” Yoongi said, “what did I promise you? I promised I would never hurt you. I hope that after our month together you would know I meant it. I’m not mad at you. You are always safe with me.”

“Hyung,” Jungkook whimpered before launching himself into Yoongi’s arms. They went sprawling to the floor, but Yoongi didn’t mind the slight spike of pain. He held onto Jungkook and squeezed tighter.

XXX

Life reverted back. Jungkook wanted to call it normal but really there’s something off in the way he and Yoongi interacted. Yoongi still bought Jungkook ice cream or any snack if his eyes glanced at it too long, and he allowed Jungkook to sit with him on the couch while they watched tv. But it was all tilted like the camera that gets thrown to the side in horror movies, the scene plays out but not in the way it should. Sometimes, like right now, Jungkook wished he hadn’t kissed Yoongi a week ago.

Jungkook peered through the hanging vines at Yoongi struggling to lift the heavy watering-can. Water sloshed onto the wood floor. If they were normal, Jungkook would spring out from his hiding spot among the tiny jungle to startle Yoongi and get a good laugh. But things weren’t normal so he stayed away. His black and brown speckled tail curled around his waist hugging him close.

Yoongi did promise not to hurt him, but how many times had he heard something similar? Humans always said it was his own fault for the punishment, never theirs. Yoongi was good. Jin promised him, Yoongi and Namjoon were rare humans, magical even.. Yoongi’s lips felt like it. They made him tingle everywhere in happiness. Jungkook wished kissing Yoongi was his normal.

“Jungkook,” called Yoongi tucking his phone into the pocket of his apron.

Jungkook jumped knocking against the hanging plants. He threw his hands up to steady it before it could knock down the others like dominos. Yoongi could walk under them and barely graze their leaves, but Jungkook was constantly dodging obstacles.

“Yes, hyung?”

“Do you want to see Jin and Namjoon tonight?” Yoongi asked.

Jungkook’s ears perked up. “Of course!”

“We’ll head there after we finish closing.”

Jungkook buzzed with excitement. He missed Jin-hyung so much. Jin and Namjoon had to cancel their last family dinner because of an emergency at the shelter. He couldn’t wait to tell Jin about everything. Surely, the older hybrid will know what to do

Jungkook bounced on his heels. The floors in the elevator dinged by as they passed, but they weren’t going fast enough. Jungkook needed Jin now. He had to get answers. Jungkook’s calves ached as another floored passed. They were so close. The weight of a hand startled Jungkook from his stare down with the cracked floor.

Yoongi patted his thigh. “Their apartment isn’t going anywhere.”

Jungkook sheepishly smiled at the human. Soft pink dusted his cheeks. Yoongi’s nose scrunched hinting at the tiny quirk of a smile before turning back to face the elevator door. Jungkook sighed taking in Yoongi’s soft but angular face: round cheeks, round chin, round nose, sharp jaw, sharp lips, sharp eyes. Admiring Yoongi in the orange light of the elevator, Jungkook didn’t hear the indicator chime their arrival to Namjoon and Jin’s floor until Yoongi stepped out of his view.

“I thought you were excited to come, or was it just the elevator ride?” Yoongi chuckled.

“Hyung,” Jungkook whined jogging to catch up.

Jungkook didn’t wait for Yoongi, opening Namjoon and Jin’s door without warning. Jungkook closed his eyes and breathed in the wonderful smell of food and family. He has never had a place like this before. Jungkook kicked off his shoes as Yoongi flopped onto the couch. Jungkook laughed to himself as he skipped to the kitchen where he knew Jin would be. And Jin was certainly there. Jungkook clung to the door frame sliding to a stop. His eyes grew wider and wider as he watched the scene unfold.

Namjoon towered over Jin pinning him to the counter. The hybrid’s white tail curled around Namjoon’s hands as they grasped his hips. Jungkook gasped. He knew this would happen. Humans were not to be trusted.

Why were they touching each other? Jungkook didn’t know if he should yank Namjoon off his hyung or go get Yoongi. But, what if Yoongi knew Namjoon touched Jin like this...then what should he do? “Hyung!” He barked out.

Jin screeched shoving Namjoon away. Jungkook sprinted around the corner and dived for Yoongi. Yoongi was magic. He’d protect him and Jin.

Jin stomped into the living room to see his two best friends on the couch.

“What’s going on?” asked Yoongi. Jungkook cowered into his side clutching at his shirt.

“When did you get here?” Jin’s body went slack seeing the two.

Yoongi’s long fingers tangled in Jungkook’s hair soothing the hybrid. “Jungkook was so excited that we closed the shop early.”

“Oh, Jungkookie.” Jin frowned at the still cowering hybrid. His poor cat ears pressed so hard against his head, as if it’d make him a smidge smaller to hide behind Yoongi. Jin didn’t mean to frighten Jungkook. “I’m sorry, sweetie. Do you want to help me cook?”

Jungkook peeked over Yoongi’s shoulder.

“I need a super special cookie taster.”

Now that got Jungkook’s attention. He perked up instantly. Jin was sure his round eyes couldn't become wider.

“Come on.” Jin offered the other hybrid his hand pulling Jungkook up off the couch.

As soon as they entered the kitchen leaving the two humans behind, Jin tugged Jungkook into a hug soothing away all of Jungkook’s worry with each rub of Jin’s cheek against his. The low rumble of Jungkook’s pur filled the kitchen. Jin laughed squeezing tighter and let out his answering pur. Jin would never hurt him Jungkook was sure.

Jin’s tactile love washed away Jungkook’s nerves. The older hybrid turned to his three-tier cooling rack and plucked a warm chocolate chip cookie. Jin didn’t even let Jungkook touch the gooey cookie, stuffing it into the boy’s open mouth.

Jungkook hummed letting the delicious treat melt in his mouth. The cookie dropped into his open hand as he moaned and chewed. It was just too good to enjoy quietly. These must be magical too.

Jungkook’s nerves sparked alive again with the warmth of the treat. Sure, Jin looked happy, but that's what hybrids were made to do. Serve the human without thought or complaint.

“Hyung,” Jungkook said softly afraid to be walked in on by Namjoon. “are you safe? I know you must love your house,” it was certainly nicer than any of his owners, “but you have me now. We can get away during the night and run from them. It’s not fancy, I know, but-but hyung, it’s better. It really is better to live on the streets like a stray than...this. It’s-its-“ Jungkook’s breath sped up. His tongue tripped over words. They should leave tonight.

Jin grabbed Jungkook’s arms trying to ground him in reality. “Jungkook, stop whatever you are thinking. It’s not like that. Namjoon is- I-“ Jin shook his head. Jin guided him to the bedroom for more privacy. Jungkook sat beside Jin on the bed, stroking his tail in comfort.

“I love Namjoon very much,” began Jin. ”Not as a pet but as a man. I kiss him and tease him, because I love him and we respect each other. Our relationship isn’t defined by being human or hybrid but by Namjoon and Jin.”

Jungkook was silent staring into his lap. “You let him touch you.” Namjoon grabbed Jin. Jungkook couldn’t see how the hybrid could want something like that.

“I enjoy touching him,” Jin admitted. “We kiss and touch a lot and we like to have sex. It’s like a healthy human-human relationships.”

“So...you like him touching you,” said Jungkook twisting his tail in his hands. He did like kissing Yoongi.

“Yes and when I don’t, he stops.”

Jungkook purses his lips. He saw it for himself. Namjoon stopped when Jin pushed him away and his tail was pulling the human closer as they kissed. Maybe it was possible for humans to love and respect hybrids.

“How did you and Namjoon start...you know?” Pink flushed Jungkook’s cheeks.

Jin jerked, slightly flustered at the new direction of conversation. “Well, we started off slow: learning more about each other, then kissing and one day we sat down and decided we were both ready for sex.”

“Oh.” Jungkook didn't explain. He was stuck in his head molding clay thoughts into sculptures. He liked Yoongi, like the kiss. He just went too fast. He should start small, like Jin said.

“Okay, hyung.” Jungkook smiled hopping off the bed and joining the humans in the living room. He wedged himself into Yoongi’s side never leaving him for long.

XXX

The office’s walls blurred past him as Jungkook spun on the desk chair. It was so early and he was already bored at the shop. Yoongi was elbow deep in potting soil and there was only so long Jungkook could stare at the beads of sweat trickling down Yoongi’s temple and curling around his jaw. Jungkook just wanted to nip at his jaw line.

His feet dragged across the floor catching on the desk to stop. What to do? Yoongi clearly didn’t spend a lot of time here. The office was plain—no books to read, no games to play. All there was was Yoongi’s phone. His phone!

Jungkook could watch TV! Yoongi showed him how a few nights ago. He tapped in the password, and clicked on the red and black N. Show after show flooded the screen. Jungkook scrolled through the shows. There were so many to choose from. Jungkook sighed, not for the first time wishing he could read. He didn’t know where to begin. He clicked on a show with smiling people in the picture. He scrunched his nose hoping it’d be a good show. He pressed the sideways triangle. The screen went black but then it began.

At first, Jungkook didn't quite get it. The rich boy was mean, like a normal human, and the girl was an outcast but for some reason Jungkook felt compelled to watch the drama unfold; watch as the boy became sweet and learned empathy by falling in love with a strong woman. Jungkook didn’t even look up as Yoongi pushed his lunch in front of him. Mindlessly patting the desk, he didn’t even put the phone down to find his lunch. Jungkook was swept away by this world.

“Alright. You need a break.” Yoongi stroked his ears. “Besides, the shop is closed.”

“But hyung, they were going to kiss, I swear,” whined Jungkook.

“Then they will kiss when you watch again tomorrow.” Yoongi would not budge.

“Tomorrow!!” Jungkook jerked away.

“You need to rest your eyes,” reasoned Yoongi.

Jungkook pouted, but he did have a bit of a headache. “Fine.”

Jungkook and Yoongi went about there normal evening routine--going home, cooking dinner, eating together. Jungkook curled into Yoongi on the couch after they cleaned the table, as Yoongi began to read aloud. His tail circled Yoongi’s thigh, letting the comfortable silence surround them. He’d enjoyed the drama so far, but Yoong was right. He needed a break. Yoongi’s quiet company was the perfect balance for Jungkook’s day, even though he was desperate to see the rich boy woo the poor girl. Maybe it wasn’t all for entertainment. Jungkook leaned into Yoongi’s side as Yoongi’s deep voice reverberated through his body reading aloud from the novel they were sharing. Maybe, the show could teach Jungkook how to woo Yoongi, so they could be like NamJin, as Yoongi liked to call them.

The next day Jungkook sped through his morning chores at the shop.

“Bye, hyung,” hollard Jungkook clutching a pen and paper to his chest as he sprinted to the office. Yoongi didn’t get a chance to reply before the door slammed behind Jungkook.

The desk chair skittered across the floor. Jungkook barely held on as it smashed into the wall, but he didnt care. He had 8-9 hours of watching ahead of him. Jungkook scrambled for the phone. It was right were it was yesterday. But he wasn’t just there to enjoy the show, no Jungkook was watching to learn. He had to woo Yoongi. Jungkook squealed as the show picked right up. With the phone an inch from his face, Jungkook was entranced.

At first, Jungkook didn’t even notice the door opened, too busy wiping his eyes on the sleeves of his t-shirt. He couldn’t even see the end credits. It was all too much. Jungkook bit back a sob. Yoongi’s soft hand threaded through his hair but he couldn't bare to look at him. Yoongi plucked the phone from his hands. He cooed at the hybrid petting his ears. Jungkook crumpled into yoongi burying his face in his solid chest. Yoongi’s arms held him close.

“Was it a sad drama?” murmured Yoongi, his breath feathering through Jungkook’s hair.

“A-and happy,” stuttered Jungkook through choppy breaths. “They l-love each other s-so much.”

“Oh, kitty.” Yoongi squeezed him closer as if he could take away the emotions coursing through Jungkook. “This is why we don’t binge watch dramas. It’s too much.”

Jungkook sniffled into his shirt rubbing his cheek into Yoongi’s chest. His tears left dried tracks down his face. It was nice to be held by Yoongi. Hopefully, sometime soon Jungkook will feel this close to Yoongi every day.

The walk home appeared so much like the first few days. Jungkook’s eyes were red-rimmed from earlier. He ducked behind Yoongi as they weaved through the empty streets home. But, so much had changed over these past few months. Jungkook was no longer starving and had a nightly shelter with this own bed, even if he preferred to be close to Yoongi. He no longer had to worry about infections or falling ill because he didn’t have to fight anymore and Namjoon was always a phone call away. Jungkook held Yoongi’s hand as they climbed the apartment stairs. Jungkook never had friends before this but now he had Namjoon and Jin and...Yoongi. He had Yoongi, but in an entirely different way; in a want-to-hold-your-hand-and-kiss-your-lips kind of way. Jungkook never felt so loved or cared for before. He’d always been starving and at battle with the world, but when he went to the bathroom, he couldn’t count his ribs anymore and his knuckles were strong and boney, not puffy and swollen. All of this could only be possible because of Yoongi.

Yoongi and Jungkook fell into their easy evening routine. They settled into the couch their shoulders warming each other. Jungkook grabbed the remote, but Yoongi knocked it from his hand. “I think you’ve had enough tv today.”

Jungkook sighed falling into Yoongi’s lap. "Then what should we do instead?”

Yoongi just smiled, his sparkling gummy smile, brushing the hair out of Jungkook’s eyes. “Just relax,” he said switching on the stereo. Music-beautiful soft piano filled the room.

Jungkook was entranced by it-caught in a spell of happiness and love. Yoongi dropped a hand to stomach. His long fingers danced across Jungkook’s body as if playing each note. Jungkook didn’t want to move. Everything was too perfect. The warm sparkle twinkling in Yoongi’s brown eyes. The overwhelming love Jungkook had for a human. This was a fairytale

Of course it had to end. Yoongi’s hands rubbed small circles onto his torso. The playlist’s last chord hung in the air. Darkness swept over them. The sun gone until morning.

“Time for bed.” Yoongi patted his stomach. Jungkook whined but still stood when Yoongi tapped for him to get off his lap. It really was past their normal bedtime. Jungkook smiled still cocooned in the lovely spell of peace. “See you in the morning,” Yoongi said ruffling his hair as he passed.

Jungkook’s tail flicked at Yoongi as he went to his bedroom. Jungkook following close behind like normal, until he spotted his notebook from this morning. Suddenly, his contentedness was shaken. He dived for the paper before slinking off to his room.

XXX

The bathroom door slammed shut rattling Jungkook’s bedroom door. Normally, the action wouldn’t be bothersome, but today, Jungkook jumped from the bed. His heart pounding through his chest syncing with the pounding of his head. Jungkook groaned holding down his cat ears. His whole body ached. He fell back into the mattress. All he wanted to do was go to sleep. The tiredness never hit him this bad as a stray.Sometimes, he went days without an entire night’s sleep. One night awake in Yoongi’s home concocting the perfect plan to win Yoongi’s heart and Jungkook felt dead on his feet.

Tap, tap, tap. Jungkook whined in answer and rubbed his eyes. The door knob rattled as Yoongi opened it. From the quirk in his lips, Yoongi was about to tease Jungkook, but the comment died on his tongue. He rushed over to the hybrid petting his soft speckled eats. Jungkook leaned into the touch, but it did not erase the heaviness in his bones.

“Are you sick?,” Yoongi said. “It’s our day off. I can call Jin and see if--”

“Just tired.” Jungkook pressed harder on his eyes trying to push back the low ache of pain.

“Are you sure?”

Jungkook nodded patting his face. One late night wouldn’t kill him. He’d just make sure to nap later in the flower shop, while Yoongi did the shop chores. Even if Sugar Petals wasn’t going to be open to the public, the flowers still needed to be taken care of. Jungkook swung his long legs over the side of the bed making a big show of stretching to reassure Yoongi. It worked. Yoongi huffed at Jungkook’s over exaggerated movements as he picked out his clothes for the day before leaving Jungkook be. Of course Jungkook was tired, but he didn’t want Yoongi to worry.

At his place at the table, a bowl of cereal and milk sat waiting for Jungkook. Yoongi smiled across the table as Jungkook took a large bite, milk dribbled down his chin. Jungkook ignored the mess focusing on eating quickly so they could finished their chores on time at the shop. They were already late thanks to him.

“Jungkook,” Yoongi called his name.

Jungkook looked up over his bowl blinking his big brown eyes. Yoongi smiled, reached out and dabbed a napkin at his chin. Jungkook sighed into the action enjoying Yoongi’s complete focus on him. Being taken care of could be so nice.

“We’ll only be at the shop for a little bit today since it’s Monday,” Yoongi said.

Jungkook just hummed in acknowledgment going through his normal routine with a hazy mind. He never would have guessed this was all it took to domesticate him. A rough night awake in an ally was normal just weeks ago.

Yoongi unlocked the shop, pulled a blanket and pillow from out of nowhere. Jungkook didn’t know where he hid them. ‘Emergencies’ the human told him when Jungkoook asked.

Yoongi stood in a sunny spot contemplating the floor. “How is this?”

Jungkook shrugged not really knowing what Yoongi was doing. The blanked billowed out in the breeze as Yoongi shook it, laying it out on the sun streaked floor. Yoongi smoothing out the wrinkles and dropped the pillow on top.

“Come, rest.” Yoongi patted the ground.

The sunny blanket did look perfect. Jungkook stretched out on his back rubbing his cheek against the soft fabric. He didn’t fight the rumbling purr that slipped out as he settled into the area. Holding the pillow to his chest, Jungkook curled around it giving into his heavy eyelids as Yoongi shuffled around the shop.

“Jungkook-ah, Jungkook-ah,” Yoongi whispered. Jungkook scrunched his nose pulling the pillow closer. He grasped for the last threads of sleep. It really was no use fighting.

“Jungkook-ah.”

Jungkook pouted the poutiest pout to ever pout pursing his lips farther frowning at the human in distaste. Yoongi laughed at the sight sending a swooping rush of warmth through Jungkook’s body, but he fought back the smile, dedicated to his pout.

“Come on you. Don’t you want to go to the park?”

Jungkook’s eyes sprung open. Of course, he wanted to go to the park. Yoongi barely dodge Jungkook bolted upright, almost knocking heads with Yoongi. Yoongi fell back into his heels, his butt hitting the floor with a soft thump.

“Hyung!” Jungkook crouched over Yoongi. He was supposed to be taking care of his hyung, not hurting him. Today was not following his plan at all. Yoongi would never fall in love with him at this rate.

“I’m okay,” said Yoongi waving him off.

Jungkook scrambled off of Yoongi helping him to his feet. Frowning, Jungkook lightly patted him making sure he was okay. He must take better care of the human.

Yoongi caught his hand. “I’m fine.” His brown eyes sparkled with hidden laughter at Jungkook’s antics. “How does spending the rest of the day at the park sound to you?”

Jungkook perked up. The park? He loved the park! It wasn’t like any park he had ever been in before as a stray. He loved running around, playing catch--Yoongi even bought him a special ball-- and he was allowed to nap there too. Before Yoongi, Jungkook would instantly be pushed out of parks. His grimy face and ragged clothes a clear sign he was a stray. But now he was clean and Yoongi stayed in sight making sure he was claimed. Now, Jungkook loved the park.

“Please! Can we go?” Jungkook bounced on his heels shaking Yoongi’s whole body.

Yoongi barked out a laugh, throwing his head back. His wide gummy smile on full display. “Well, let’s go then.”

Jungkook raced to the office grabbing the backpack they shared. He dug to the bottom shuffling around the contents before pulling out his notebook in triumph. The plan to woo Yoongi was top priority today. It waited for no one. With the backpack secure on his shoulders, Jungkook sidestepped past Yoongi. He lunged for the door swinging it open for the human. The plan was already in full motion, but Yoongi only smiled at him as he walked through the door. It would take more than door holding to woo Min Yoongi.

Jungkook tilted his face to the sky as they walked to the
park absorbing the warm sunshine. Winter lasted far longer than it should have. His clothes were much too thin; the memory of the biting cold concrete seared into his mind. Yoongi’s hand curled around his elbow guiding him around the corner. But he’d never have to sleep in an alley again, not while he had Yoongi.

Before Yoongi, Jungkook wasn’t allowed in this hybrid park. It’s shiny metal gate was firmly locked for strays. But he wasn’t a stray anymore. Jungkook still found himself hiding behind Yoongi, clutching at the hem of the human’s shirt as they walked through the gated entrance. Yoongi didn’t pry at his fingers, simply patted his hand that gripped the shirt. Years of neglect couldn’t vanish in a single breath. Jungkook knew that, but he still hated the fear that burned through his body when he saw a stray catcher or police officer.

The park fulfilled every single dream Jungkook had. Hybrids and their owners strolled through the grassy field enjoying the midday sun together. Yoongi and Jungkook followed the familiar path to a set of shaded benches. Close enough to watch the others without hovering. Yoongi wanted him to join the other hybrids playing, Jungkook knew that. He leaned on his knees watching them play catch. He always watched them. They laughed and jeered at each other clearly having fun, but Jungkook couldn’t -- he couldn’t just walk up to them and asked to join, that’s not how it worked. So Jungkook sat next to Yoongi in the shade of a large tree peering through the low-hanging branches wishing so desperately he could play. It was still nice. Yoongi sat close to his side humming random tunes as they watched the world go by.

Gurgle, Jungkook started at the noise staring down at his stomach. In the months he’s spent with Yoongi he forgot what it was like to be hungry. Yoongi chuckled at him. He stood stretching his body as he reached to touch the branches above them. Yoongi reached down to pull the cat-hybrid to his feet. Jungkook stumbled but refused to let go of his hand. He couldn’t tamper down the pur that rumbled through his chest as they walked through the park hand in hand. Yoong was holding his hand. Jungkook’s cheeks ached from smiling.Hand holding always always led to kissing in dramas. Jungkook skipped beside him squeezing his hand as the human steered them through the crowded streets to a restaurant if you could call it that.

Jungkook’s eyebrows crinkled as he stared at the dinghy brown door. The wood frame cracked. He didn’t have any room to judge. An roof over head was good shelter, but it didn’t look like the kind of place Yoongi would visit. It looked...dirty. But it’s appearance didn’t stop Yoongi from walking through the door. As soon as he stepped through, his mouth salvated. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. The wonderful smell of grilled meat filled his lungs. Yum.

“Lamb skewers,” Jungkook sighed opening his eyes. A small fond smile curved Yoongi’s thin lips as he watched him.

“So you approve?” Yoongi cocked an eyebrow.

Jungkook sidled up close to him pressing warmly against his side. He rested his head on the human’s shoulder. “Can we live here, hyung?” He wished he could listen to Yoongi’s low chuckle every day.

They cozied up together into a tiny booth. Yoongi ordered the water, bbq and an extra order of lamb skewers for them both. Jungkook nestled into his side curling around his arm. Yoongi took such good care of him. Jungkook nuzzled into his shoulder at the thought. He never met someone so kind and caring before, but Yoongi worked so hard to make him comfortable. He wanted to stay with him forever.

As the meat sizzled and popped on the grill at their table, Jungkook sat up straight. He needed to complete another step in his mission: feed Yoongi. The skewers finished cooking. Yoongi slid the meat off of the kebab stick onto Jungkook’s plate. The hot greased burned his mouth, but he couldn’t stop eating. Yoongi laughed as he breathed around the food in his mouth like a dragon trying to cool it down. Jungkook gasped as Yoongi knocked the next bite out of his chopsticks.

“It’s not going to disappear.” Yoongi plucked a piece of meat from Jungkook’s heaping plate, and blew on it before dropping it into his own mouth.

Jungkook frowned at Yoongi’s sparse plate. He was failing at his plan to woo Yoongi already. He scooped a pile of lamb up and plopped it down on the human’s plate.

“Is everything okay?” asked Yoongi.

Jungkook couldn’t look him in the face picking at the pieces on his plate. “You need to eat too, hyung,” he mumbled his face blooming red. He gaped at Yoongi as he reached across Jungkook’s plate plucking a bite and eating it.

“Better?”

Jungkook nodded staring at the divots in the wooden table. He couldn’t look him in the eye. Who knew wooing would be so embarrassing?

They stepped back out into the streets with bulging bellies. Jungkook yawned patting his full belly. He probably overate again, but Namjoon told him he needed to continue to gain weight--or at least that’s how he justified their four refills of meat. The walk home seemed farther away than ever before with stiff legs and protruding stomachs, but Jungkook dutifully followed Yoongi. The evening chill was setting in. Jungkook nuzzled into his heavy flannel jacket. It was too hot this morning, but now it was perfect. Ahead of him, Yoongi’s shoulders quaked in his thin long-sleeved shirt. He frowned at the sight. His hyung didn’t deserve to suffer. With deft fingers, Jungkook unbuttoned his outer layer.

“Hyung,” called Jungkook jogging to stand in front of him He slipped the jacket off of his shoulders. “You’re cold.” Jungkook handed the clothes to him.

Yoongi jolted away from his offering. “Jungkook, that’s yours. I knew it was going to get colder and should have brought my own.”

“A little cold doesn’t bother me” protested Jungkook trying to put the jacket in his hands. “I’ve been through worse.”

“Jungkook.”

The warning made Jungkook want to cower back, but he couldn’t. He needed to take care of Yoongi, needed to show him he cared. “Hyung.” His voice cracked.

“Fine.” Yoongi snatched the jacket from him stomping off as he pulled it over his shoulders. “Hurry up. I don’t want you to get sick.”

A big, toothy smile broke across Jungkook’s face as he raced to catch up with Yoongi.

XXX

Yoongi rolled his eyes as Jungkook plopped on the couch with the PS3 controller in hand. A hand-me down from Taehyung. School and work had kept Tae away the past couple of months. Yoongi made a mental note to send the brat a text. He flopped down beside Jungkook.

“Want to play, hyung?” asked Jungkook handing out the second controller.

“I’ll just watch,” and read anything if you need it, Yoongi added silently.

Jungkook nodded to himself. The game’s music started. Yoongi pulled a pillow closer tucking his knees to his chest to fit on his side of the couch. He rubbed his face into the soft pillow, as Jungkook’s tail curled around his ankle, a warm familiar weight. Yoongi smiled. Maybe, it wasn’t so bad having someone around. His eyes felt heavy. He let the sounds of Jungkook’s game lull him to sleep.

Yoongi frowned. Wakefulness was on the horizon. Something soft poked his face. He tried to roll away, but the pestering continued.

“Hyung, hyung,” whispered Jungkook again.

“What?” Yoongi’s mouth felt full of cotton.

“Your phone, hyung.”

Yoongi blinked at the screen Jungkook held in front of his face. Why was Namjoon calling him? Yoongi pulled himself up taking the phone from Jungkook. “Hello.”

“Heey, hyung.” Namjoon’s voice was odd, tight and full of tension. Yoongi got up and went to his bedroom. The video game’s noises started again as he shut his door.

“Namjoon, is something wrong? Are you okay? Did something happen to Jin?”

“No. No. Nothing like that. J-just.” Yoongi could hear his fidgeting the tell-tale sounds of Namjoon dropping things and picking them up probably a pen or his glasses. Yoongi hoped he didn’t break another pair. Namjoon took a deep breath as if to collect himself. “Hyung, you don’t have to do this. Jin didn’t even want me to tell you.”

Yoongi paced his bedroom, his feet scuffing along the worn carpet. “Why did you call me?” He couldn’t help the bit to his words, but really Namjoon’s brain moved too quickly at times chasing every rabbit hole.

“A hybrid got adopted this morning.”

Yoongi stopped.

“We have room for Jungkook at the shelter, hyung.”

Yoongi dropped onto his bed. The shelter, of course Jungkook needed to go to the shelter. He wasn’t his to take care of. He gulped blinking back any tears threatening to escape. Jungkook needed a proper home. Someone who could adore him wholeheartedly --not Yoongi. He already failed at that once.

“But we don’t have to take him,” Namjoon rushed. “You are doing so well with him and I think you should--”

Yoongi cuts him off. “Do you want to pick him up in the morning?”

“I don’t have to ever pick him up,” protested Namjoon.

Yoongi sighed closing his eyes. “Namjoon.”

“I can be there in the morning,” he sighed

Chapter Text

The broom swished across the shop floor pushing bits of dirt into a single pile. Yoongi tapped the broom against the floor before wiping his tired hands onto his apron. His fingers flexed, the muscles tight. He was so tired and achy. Sighing Yoongi glared at the black sky. Guess he should go home.

The walk to his apartment was cold and dark. Most of his life was cold and dark. Sadness seeped into his bones as he flicked on the kitchen light. He grabbed himself a cup from the cabinet and turned on the faucet. Water overflowed down the old cereal bowl from weeks ago. Jungkook’s final breakfast here. Yoongi shoved his cup under the stream. Cold water dribbled over his hand. He didn’t bother to wipe up the mess, dripping as he walked to his bedroom.

In the quiet dark of his bedroom, Yoongi admitted it to himself. He missed Jungkook even if it was for the best. Yoongi couldn’t keep the hybrid happy. He wasn’t capable of taking care of anyone. Fuck, he couldn’t even take care of himself. Yoongi gulped down the water and fell back into bed wishing the darkness would just swallow him whole.

XXX

The door to his room at the shelter snickered open.

“I’m not coming out today, Jin,” mumbled Jungkook into his pillow. He wrestled the blanket over his head.

“Well that sucks. I wanted to go for a walk.”

Jungkook bolted upright out of the twisting blankets and shoved them down to his feet. Who was in his room?!

A deep chuckle filled his tiny room (perfect for one person). Jungkook huffed throwing his bedding to the floor. The blankets never felt right -- too hot and itchy. The strange human leaned back against Jungkook’s dresser smiling at his epic battle. He squinted at the human, glaring daggers at him.

The human’s smile dropped at the sight. Jungkook was sure his fur was standing on end. “Namjoon-hyung said you weren’t a biter.” He inched closer to the door. “I’m Taehyung.”

“I don’t bite,” Jungkook glared at him through his long bangs, “unless you deserve it.” Jungkook grappled for a pillow to hold onto as Taehyung took a running jump for his bed.

“Oh good. I rarely deserve it, but sometimes I ask nicely.” Taehyung smiled at him making himself at home on his bed.

Jungkook scrambled into the corner of his bed pressing himself into the wall to get as far away from him as possible. He hugged the pillow curling around it as if the fluffy rectangle would hide him from the unblinking human.

That is all Taehyung did -- stare and smile at him. Jungkook’s face pinched. Surely, he had things to do, hybrids to take care of. He didn’t have to keep staring . He peeked around the pillow arching out from behind the very poor barrier. His neck strained to see the digital clock on his empty dresser. Twenty minutes had passed. Was the human going to do this all day?  

Taehyung stared and smiled all day, and the next and the next until Jungkook couldn’t take it anymore. He whipped the pillow at Taehyung’s stupid, boxy smile.

“What do you want?” Jungkook squeezed the edge of his blanket with all of his might. 

“Lots of things,” Taehyung shrugged.

Jungkook wanted to claw that cute smile off his perfect face. “What do you want with me?” 

“To be your friend. You aren’t going to be adopted, if you can’t get along with others.”

Adopted. The word stole the air from his lungs. He didn’t want to be adopted. He wanted to go home to Yoongi. Jungkook bit his lip to stop it from wobbling. He wouldn’t cry, especially not in front of Taehyung.

“Well, I don’t need any new friends. I have Jin-hyung,” who he only got to see when he gave Jungkook his meal tray. Jin had a lot of responsibilities at the shelter.

“But I need a new friend to go with me to the park. Do you like parks?”

Jungkook’s ears perked up. He tried to act nonchalant, but the slight switch of his tail and erect ears were all Taehyung needed.

He covered his ears, as Taehyung whooped. “Let’s go!”

The trees were just as green and the sky just as blue, but it wasn’t his park. Jungkook trailed behind Taehyung gripping the hem of his long t-shirt so he wouldn’t lose the human. He didn’t want to think about where he was. Miles away from Yoongi, from home. He wanted to go back months ago and find a different alley for shelter, so he would never have met Yoongi - never know what it was like to be loved. Jungkook stepped on the back of Taehyung’s shoes as the human stopped unexpectedly. The hem slipping from his hands as he turned to him. A sad smile tugged at the human’s lips. He shoved a tissue into his clenched hands.

“Let’s only think of sunny things, okay?” said Taehyung.

Jungkook nodded eyes never leaving the cracks in the sidewalk.

“Good.”

The human held Jungkook’s hand tugging him to walk beside him. Jungkook watched the cracks of the sidewalk go by broken and bruised like him. They too will never be repaired.

The park wasn’t his park, but it was still a nice, open space in the middle of the city. Walking through the gates into the trees felt like an entirely new place. The trees guarded the park from noisy cars and looming buildings. The peaks of blue sky felt like they could go on forever.

While Taehyung led them on the path, Jungkook tilted his head up to the sun catching as much of its warmth as possible. It had been a week since he’d last felt it.

Taehyung giggled at him. “You really are a cat. Let’s sit in the sun for awhile since it makes you so happy.”

“But what about you?” asked Jungkook. “You were the one who wanted to come.”

“I wanted a new friend and my friend likes soaking up the sun,” said Taehyung sprawling across the plush grass.

Jungkook laid face first into the grass to hide his burning cheeks.

Jungkook woke to his ears being lightly petted. He smiled leaning into the gentle touch.

“Wakey wakey,” Taehyung’s low voice almost lulled him back to sleep. “It’s time to go back.”

Jungkook breathed deeply, stretching his arms and legs as far as they’d go, bringing life back into his body. Taehyung chuckled as he flexed his fingers finally blinking up at him. Jungkook sighed. He didn’t want to go.

“Come on,” said Taehyung reaching out for his hands. “You don’t want to miss dinner.” Jungkook let him pull him up. He smiled at the trees silently wishing them goodbye. Who knew when he’d be back? In another week? A month? Jungkook filled his lungs with as much fresh air as possible before returning to his stuffy room for one.

XXX

The oatmeal tasted more bland than normal. Maybe Jin-hyung forgot the honey. Jungkook sighed, his spoon sinking into the mush. He frowned at the plain yellow walls. Four walls, one door, one dresser, one bed and no windows. Jungkook squeezed his eyes shut. Tears prickling at the edges of his eyes. Never in his life had Jungkook been without the sun. Even his Master had let him sit by the window as long as he didn’t move. Living on the streets, he could go where he pleased. Well, only if it wasn’t claimed territory or near the Pound, but that wasn’t the point. The crisp fresh air was freely given without consequence and after yesterday his room felt smaller than ever. He could tell Jin tried to make the room feel homey, but it wasn’t the same as crunching fresh blades of grass between his toes. He wanted to go outside.

Jungkook hastily swiped his eyes with the back of his hands when Jin knocked at his door to pick up his meal tray, but it wasn’t Jin peering around the door. A boxy grin beamed at him.

“Park time!” exclaimed Taehyung.

Jungkook curled into his bed covers afraid of being rejected. “Again?”

“Yes! Unless you want to do something else today?

Jungkook shot out from under the covers. “No! L-let’s go the the park.”

“Don’t forget your shoes.”

They were going to the park again . Jungkook vibrated with excitement barely able to contain himself the entire three block walk.

The park was beautiful to Jungkook. It’s tall protective trees. Everywhere was green - so much brighter than the grey buildings surrounding it. Jungkook walked beside Taehyung on the path following along dutifully. He almost bumped into him as Taehyung stopped to dig into his small backpack.

“I swear, I had it,” Taehyung mumbled searching. “Ah!” He thrust his fist in the air in victory. He zipped up his bag once again still hiding the treat. “I know you aren’t a dog-hybrid but - Tada!”

Jungkook bit his lip glancing between the ball and Taehyung’s excited face. What’s so special about a ball? “It’s a ball.”

“A baseball actually.” Taehyung as if that was supposed to mean something to Jungkook. “So we can play catch, unless you don’t want to of course.”

Jungkook shifted on his feet. He didn’t like disappointing Taehyung, not when they were just becoming friends. “I don’t know how to play catch.”

“Perfect.” Jungkook frowned. “I can teach you!”

Jungkook felt stupid. He threw the ball again watching it land at Taehyung’s feet. Why was this so hard? Across the grass an entire pack of hybrids - supervised by their owners - played a large game of catch. They were doing just fine.

“Hey, hey.” Taehyung jogged over to him pulling him into a hug. He tensed, but relaxed into his warm embrace. “You’ll get it! Let’s try like a puppet again.”

Jungkook huffed, but let Taehyung put the ball in his hand. Standing behind him Taehyung positioned his arms. He frowned trying to memorize every movement as Taehyung winded him up and let the ball fly. It soared through the air hitting the tree trunk they were aiming for with a thunk.

“Want to try yourself?”

Jungkook nodded chasing after the ball. He whipped around to face him once again. Jungkook squeezed the ball, raised his arm, winding up like before and let the ball fly - right into Taehyung’s waiting hands.

“I did it!” Jungkook jumped whooping in the air. Taehyung cackled joining him in his victory celebration. Together they danced wildly, laughing and cheering. He couldn’t breathe, too full of happiness. Jungkook wanted to stay here and never return to the shelter.

Of course, Jungkook had to return to the shelter. He took a deep breath of fresh air before following Taehyung through the front door. He ducked his head acting more like a shadow than a living being as Taehyung waved to passerbyers. Jungkook kept his chin tucked low and eyes trained on the wood floor until they reached his room.

The rest of the day passed by in slow agony. Far too early, Jungkook jumped into bed pulling the blankets to his chin. Hopefully, Taehyung would come again. He squeezed his eyes closed hoping time would go quickly if he were sleeping.

Jungkook couldn’t help himself. He perched on his made bed, the empty breakfast tray beside him. His knee jiggled as he waited never breaking eye contact with the door. The knob groaned as someone turned it from the other side. Jungkook stilled.

Taehyung’s head popped inside. “Ready for the park?” Jungkook couldn’t scramble off the bed quick enough.

For over a week, Jungkook and Taehyung had spent their days at the park laying in the sun or playing catch. Taehyung even packed lunches for them, so they could stay longer. He was so nice. He told Jungkook all about school and his friends. Jungkook loved to lay back in the grass absorbing all he could from him.

Jungkook scarfed down his breakfast. He tugged at his blankets making sure they were straight before tying his shoes. Taehyung should be here any minute. The clock ticked on, but Taehyung still did not show. Jungkook frowned swinging his feet. Taehyung had lots of responsibilities at the shelter so he’s probably just a little late.

An hour passed and Jungkook’s shoulders slumped. Taehyung wouldcome. He had to. His eyebrows pinched.

Jungkook did not answer the door for lunch ignoring Jin’s pleas. He rolled over on his bed pretending to be asleep. He pulled his legs into his chest until he was just a speck in the universe, so tiny no one - especially Taehyung or Yoongi - could find him.

He tried not to look at the door, but couldn’t help the tiny bud of hope that he meant something to Taehyung. All those days spent together laughing and smiling. The human should burst through the door dying to spend time with him.

But, he never came.

Jungkook should have known better. Humans were evil creatures. They made him believe he meant something, but they were all the same. They did not hesitate to beat him or toss him in the trash. He mean nothing to him. Jungkook bit his wobbling lip fighting back the tears. He shouldn’t waste his heart on something that clearly meant nothing to them. That night Jungkook fell asleep with tears tracking down the curve of his cheeks.

For days,  Jungkook refused to let anyone inside his room. He laid facing the yellow walls ignoring Jin’s calls. He didn’t want to see him. He stomach clawed at him to eat something, but the thought of food made his stomach twist and turn.

He woke to someone pounding on his door. It was probably Jin. Jungkook signed slowly sitting up, his head spinning. Maybe he should eat something.

“Jungkookie,” Taehyung sang his name.

He whipped around to the door grabbing the dresser to hold himself up. He hadn’t been this dizzy since Yoongi took him home. With shaky hands, he opened the door.

Taehyung’s smile dropped from his facing seeing Jungkook gripping the wall to stand up. He dropped the tray of food on the desk with a clang and rushed to his side. He wrapped an arm around Jungkook’s waist and led him back to his bed.

“Why haven’t you eaten?” Taehyung said fussing around Jungkook to make sure he was ready for food.

“Why do you care?” Jungkook focused on the speckled carpet afraid of his head swimming more.

“I thought we were friends.” Taehyung held the tray of food bringing a sandwich to his mouth. Jungkook couldn’t resist snatching it from his hand. He viciously bit into it, crumbs flying everywhere. Turkey, his favorite.

“I thought so too,” Jungkook mumbled into the sandwich sniffling. His ears pressed tightly to the top of his head.

“Jungkook,” he said softly.

“No.” Jungkook scooted away. “You don’t get to call me your friend. You don’t get to feel bad. I waited for you and just like every other human. You-you left me.” Jungkook huffed and puffed trying to hold back the burning tears. He’s so tired of crying. “I trusted you and you forgot about me. Dropped me off at a shelter and he won’t even call me. I-I” He sobbed dropping the sandwich. How could Yoongi leave him?

Taehyung pulled him into his lap for a hug. He rocked him back and forth letting Jungkook sob all of his pain away. Finally speaking when only sniffles remained. “I don’t know why Yoongi-hyung let you go, but I didn’t mean for you to feel abandoned. I know this won’t help, but I didn’t have time to stop by. I’m sorry, Jungkook.”

Jungkook rubbed his cheek against Taehyung’s shoulder. The human’s warm hands soothing his shaking body. He didn’t want to hurt anymore, but missing Yoongi was worse than spending the winter sleeping on cold concrete. He missed spring. Jungkook slumped into Taehyung’s hold.

“I know!” Jungkook jerked at his exclamation. “You should eat in the cafeteria. You’ll get to meet the other hybrids and see me all of the time.”

Jungkook’s face pinched in a frown. He’s never been outside his room before - didn’t really know that was an option.

“Why don’t you try it out? I can come pick you up for dinner. We can walk there together and everything.”

Jungkook played with the sleeves of his shirt. He could try it. He’s faced worse than a crowded room. “Okay.” Jungkook scrambled to hold onto Taehyung’s shoulders as he danced in victory.

Jungkook clung to Taehyung’s shirt twisting it in his hands as the human led them through the shelter’s halls. His eyes stayed trained to his feet never looking beyond the paneling of the wood floors, but he can hear them - the footsteps of other hybrids. The soft popping of slippers moving past them. Jungkook stayed close stepping on Taehyung’s heels.They had to be close. The soft roar of chatter was getting louder with each step they took. Jungkook stumbled into Taehyung’s back as he stopped.

Taehyung peeled Jungkook’s hands from his shirt holding them when he turned to face Jungkook. “I know you’re nervous.”

“I’m not nervous,” mumbled Jungkook scuffing his feet.

Taehyung giggled squeezing his hands. “And it’s okay to be scared. It’s new but also exciting. Aren’t you excited to be outside your room? If you like it, you can come here three times a day or more.”

Of course, Jungkook was relieved to be out of the four yellow walls of his room, but here with so many hybrids...Jungkook toyed with his black and brown tail.

“Let’s give it a try.”

Jungkook was right. The loud chatter hit him like a brick wall. He stepped back trying to hide behind him, but the humanheld firm guiding him to a side table that was mostly empty. There were so many hybrids. Jungkook had no idea so many hybrids didn’t have homes. He had only seen this many hybrids in one place at the Pound, but there they were in wall to wall cages not roaming freely like here.

Taehyung pushed Jungkook into a chair and accepted the plates of food giving one to Jungkook.

“I hope you like water,” said the bunny hybrid next to Taehyung. “We only get pop on movie night. I’m Bomi by the way.” She poured Jungkook a glass. Jungkook’s tongue felt heavy in his mouth. He didn’t know if he could speak or what he should say.

“Be gentle, Bomi” chastised Taehyung. Bomi rolled her eyes smiling brightly at Jungkook. She patted his hands.

“It’s nice to finally meet you, Jungkook.”

“Ho-How do you know my name?

“Taehyung is always excited to share about your park adventures.”

Jungkook blushed grabbing his fork. The conversation washed over him as he eats. Taehyung occasionally reached over to pat his back as he talks with the other hybrids at the circle table. Sitting in the corner away from prying eyes, this wasn’t so bad.

XXX

Yoongi’s huffs and puffs echoed through the shop as he tried to lift a planted clay pot. It didn’t used to be this bad. He used to be able to move a medium planter without breaking a sweat, but now he needed to stop and take a break. It’s spot was only a couple of feet away, but his surroundings were swaying. Yoongi squeezed the side of the table beside him. The metal biting his skin. It didn’t stop his world from turning upside down. He fell to his knees grasping at the ground. It wasn’t supposed to be making waves. What was happening? He panted trying to regain control over his body, but it was no use. He slumped to the floor.

Yoongi scrunched his face. He had to open his eyes. He needed to get up. A pained groan escaped his lips as his eyelids pried open. Sweat clung to his forehead. His whole body shook. Something was wrong.

Yoongi’s legs were rubber. They didn’t want to cooperate as he pulled himself up to his knees. How could this happen? He wasn’t ill - no stuffed nose or fever. Sure he wasn’t doing all that great at taking care of himself, but he did eat...when was the last meal he had. He ate some cheese this morning and a yogurt the day before. Was it really two days ago when he made ramen? No wonder his hands vibrated.

He needed to do something. He just needed to go home. Not trusting his own body Yoongi called a taxi, picked himself up off the floor, locked the doors and waiting outside in the warm afternoon sun. His body aching with every breath.

The stuffy air of his apartment choked his lungs. How long has it been since he felt at home? Instead of the safe haven it was supposed to be his apartment had turned into an attacker. Every inch reminding him of Jungkook. He missed him with every cell in his body, but Jungkook was far happier at the shelter. He needed more than Yoongi, so it was now his own duty to find solace in his home. With the room still spinning around him, Yoongi stumbled to the kitchen to find his secret stash of sweets - a temporary fix. Sprawling onto the couch he waiting for the chocolate to still quaking hands so he could make himself a sandwich. He always had those ingredients at home.

Finally, steadier on his feet, Yoongi shuffled to his bedroom. He flopped face first onto the mattress. He’ll do laundry tomorrow. He was about to close his eyes when he jerked awake. The bedside table drawer was open. What was he doing in there? No birthdays or holidays have passed. He reached in tracing each item delicately. There were all safe and sound. His memory always warmed his heart.

“I promise I’ll take better care of myself,” said Yoongi sliding the drawer closed. He patted it twice before snuggling into his pillow for much needed sleep.

He had nothing to eat. How was Yoongi supposed to make up those lost calories without food in his cupboard. Yoongi stomped into a pair of shoes, shoved his keys and wallet into his pockets and headed for the bus stop.

After sleeping for over 15 hours, he was ready to reboot and get himself together. Jungkook was gone, and he just needed to accept it. The hybrid was off to find the perfect family he deserved without Yoongi there to fuck it up. Because that was all Yoongi was good for. He functioned better alone. Thankfully, the store was mostly empty so he was able to grab his favorites easily and return to the safety of his home.

The simple ramen soothed the aches in his body filling him with warm broth. He’ll heal just like he always had before. Yoongi just needed a few days is all. He’ll hunker down here - he could afford not to open the shop for a few days.

Yoongi snuggled deeper into the couch barely hanging onto consciousness not that he was trying hard anyway. The couch scratched his cheek as the knocking at his door began again. Maybe if he doesn’t answer, they’ll go away.

“Min Yoongi,” called the person.

Apparently, his nap was over. Yoongi swung his legs out from under the blanket. The thunder of knuckles continued rattling the door as he shuffled over.

“Min Yoongi, I’m coming to save you!” Jin called on the other side of the door.

Yoongi sighed flinging the door open before Jin could do something crazy like ram the door.

“Oh.” Jin froze gawking at him.

Yoongi looked down at himself to make sure he was wearing pants. (He was.) “Want to come in?”

Jin blinked before following him inside. He must have remembered his anger because the next thing Yoongi knew he was being interrogated. “And where have you been? First there were no texts and then the old Ajumma came to the shelter telling me you haven’t opened the shop all week. Do you know how worried I am?”

Yoongi fell into the blanket nest on his couch. “No note, care gone. You could have died,” he said in the worst british accent he could muster.

“Oh you think this is funny.” He huffed folding his arms. “After months, years, watching you break yourself and then you force Jungkook out and close the shop.”

Yoongi frowned playing with the edge of the blanket.

“What was I supposed to think?”

“I just needed a few days to,” he waved his hands over the blankets, empty boxes of tissues and never ending Netflix on TV.

“Yoongi, he doesn’t have to be gone.”

“Yes, he does. It’s for the best. In a few years, he’ll thank me for this.”

“Thank you for leaving him?”

“Don’t - just don’t.” It didn’t matter what Jin said. This was all for the best for everyone.

“Have you been eating?” asked Jin opening and closing his cabinets.

“That’s not food. Good think I stopped at the store first.” Jin dropped his bag and began unpacking. Yoongi smiled letting Jin herd him to his bedroom to change clothes and clean up a little. If all else, he could always count on Jin.

Jin’s motherly love cloaked the edges of Yoongi’s perception. He filled him full of warm food, tucked the blankets around him as they watched movies and adored Yoongi with more affection than he had in the years before Jungkook. Yoongi frowned, but it didn’t stop the pang in his heart whenever Yoongi thought of what could have been. Could have beens is a plague with no cure. If he could have just not gone with friends or didn’t call - Yoongi hit the counter. The tingling pain bringing him to the here and now. But it was so hard to ignore. Time crept closer to the black circle on his calendar. Perhaps he should circle Jungkook’s birthday as well.

“Are you okay?” Jin called through the bathroom door.

“I’m fine,” but truthfully he hasn’t been fine in years. If he said it 500 more times, do you think he’ll actually believe it himself?

The light from the kitchen danced at the bottom of the door as Jin shuffled. “The food is ready when you come out.”

More food. Yoongi patted his stomach if he keeps eating like this he’ll grow fat like a dumpling. Jin really needed to leave. He splashed his face with water before leaving the bathroom. Two steaming bowls were waiting for him at the table. Jin artfully placed the little side dishes between the place settings. Yoongi dropped into his seat and Jin joined him. They smile and joke flicking their chopsticks at each other. Yoongi embraced the moment leaning into the teasing a little more. He sure had missed this kind of chatter.

He slumped back into his chair hoping that would alleviate his food baby. As always, Jin’s cooking was the best - don’t tell his mom. Yoongi groaned pulling himself up. He shuffled around piling the side dishes up and took the empty dishes to the kitchen when a cell phone rang. Yoongi ignored it. If it was his, they can leave a message.

“Namjoon,” Jin’s muffled voice reached Yoongi. He started the water. “I know but he needs me. You should see him. It’s almost worse than when Sungmin...you know.” Jin trailed off. “It’s like he’s at peace, but I know -”

Yoongi hit the switch for the garbage disposal. He didn’t want to hear this. The angry grinding drowned Jin’s lilting voice.  

The soapy bubbles flowed to the edge of the sink, as if to reassure him. He shook away the bubbles off his hands turned off the disposal and cleaned the dishes. Soap and water splashing everywhere as he viciously scrubbed.

“Yoongi.”

The cup slipped from his fingers dunking into the water. The entire front of Yoongi’s shirt was soaked. Jin rushed for the towel and began drying the dishes.

“Namjoon called,” said Jin. “H-he needs me back home.”

Yoongi’s time was up. “I need to open the shop again anyways.”

Jin wrapped an arm around his shoulder bringing him closer to his side in a half-hug. “I’ll be checking in more. I’m sorry I haven’t been a better friend.”

Soapy hands and all, Yoongi turned wrapping his arms around his friends’ wide shoulders. He held him close. He was so lucky to have him.

The apartment was quiet without any guests. Yoongi shuffled around putting away blankets, pillows, and empty glasses. It’s time to go back to normal

Normal was hard to find. Days passed and Yoongi fell into a healthier routine: eating, working normal hours, even started to read a new book series, but the gaping wound in his heart ached. But he was here, breathing new air, digging his hands deep into the earth and sometimes that’s all you can ask for.

Yoongi tried to make it as normal of a day as possible. He set about his normal morning routine trying to avoid the calendar at all costs. As if going around the other side of the kitchen table would make the bold daunting circle go away.

He opened the shop like any other Thursday morning accepting the small shipment of flowers from a local greenhouse and preparing a bouquet for Mina to take to her office. He grabbed a spare yogurt (he replaced his stash the morning after he found Jungkook). Shoving aside the memories, he ate at the register. All like normal.

At first, Yoongi didn’t notice her. He continued to water the table of plants as the door chimed open. It wasn’t unusual for someone to wander in. Flowers appeal to everyone.

After a few moments, Yoongi put away his watering can. Wiping his hands onto his apron, he approached the woman standing at the precut flowers for custom bouquets.

“May I help you, ajumma?” asked Yoongi.

“Ajumma? I thought I told you long ago to call me Eomma, Yoongi-yal?”

Her voice froze him in place. With every word, his body stiffened, quaking on his feet.

“What? How?” He whipped around. His mind a jumbled mess. The secret corner of his heart flooding his mind. She can’t be here. He gritted his teeth shoving down the sadness and love that threatened to bubble out. His eyes burning with unshed tears.

She held his arm, as if she understood his turmoil.

“Oh, Yoongi.” Her voice wrapped around him like a familiar hug. “I always knew you would build a wonderful life for yourself.”

Could she picture him here? Running the store with Yoongi. He was always better at numbers than him.

“Come with me,” she said.

Yoongi could never refuse her. He took off his apron, kicked the dirt off his boots, and followed her out of the shop.

The backseat of the cab was a bit tight, but Yoongi made sure to pull all of his limbs in close. He didn’t want to make this worse for her. With his eyes glued to the back of the seat in front of him, Yoongi tried to think small thoughts. Maybe if he thought hard enough he would dissolve into the seat and this entire day would be over.

His legs cramped, but Yoongi wouldn’t dream of trying to stretch. Yoongi glanced out of the window. Neighborhood after neighborhood of Seoul swept past them, as they easily sped through the mid-morning traffic until finally large metal buildings broke for small houses and then fields.

“Ajumma?”

“Yoongi,” she reprimanded him.

“Eomma,” he corrected. “Where are we going?”

“It’s been too long since you’ve seen him, dear.”

“You-I-” His thoughts scrambled together. His body flashing with white hot fear. “That’s very nice of you, but I should get back to my shop.”

“Nonsense. We are here.”

The car parked in front of the memorial park. It was as if roots sprouted from his feet, he couldn’t move-refused to.

How could he? Yoongi couldn’t go inside, not today, not with her. He hasn’t done well. Everything he had was built on the shaky foundation of grief. For such a plain building, it held so much hurt.

The slamming of a car door jerked him back. Eomma stood outside tapping on his window. He could do this for her - just this one time. He shoved down his emotions and tried to lock them up tight.

The memorial home was empty today, which didn’t surprise Yoongi, but still the air sparked with the life of those now gone. Their spirits resting here. Yoongi stumbled behind Eomma. He hasn’t been here since the funeral and really he didn’t remember much from the day besides the gaping hole in his heart weeping.

When they turned one last corner, Yoongi halted. There he was - Sungmin.

Yoongi squeezed his eyes shut, but he couldn’t stop the tears from falling. Oh, Sungmin-ah.

Eomma’s shoes clicked on the floor as she walked toward him. Her soft soothing hands pulled his from covering his face. He sobbed crumbling into her waiting arms. She held him close shuffling to her son’s final resting place. He weakly tried to push her away with limp fists, but she held the pieces of his heart together. She held him as the walls he oh so carefully build around his heart crashed around him. She held him until his sobs had quieted and only sniffles from his button nose remained.

“Oh, Yoongi-yah, just look at how happy he was with you.” Eomma nudged him off her shoulder.

He blinked away the glassy tears. Next to Sungmin’s urn was two photos - one of him with his family and the other - Yoongi weakly smiled stepping closer. He traced a finger down Sungmin’s face. He had the same photo of the two of them in his bedside table. It was a picture of them on their third anniversary. The night Sungmin asked Yoongi to marry him. Three weeks before his death.

“Eomma, I wish I could be stronger. I wish I could let go like you.”

She hummed beside him holding his hand. “I miss him every day. My strength is not from forgetting and moving on, but from spreading the love I feel to others, just like our Sungmin.”

Yoongi gulped. Why was he always crying? “You deserve happiness.”

“And you don’t?”

“I” he clenched his jaw. “I killed him. Of course, I don’t deserve love. I had it and let it die . I can’t do it again. I won’t let it happen.”

“Yoongi, no.” She cupped his cheeks. “You didn’t kill Sungmin. He chose to drive that night. He chose to go too fast on the wet roads. It was never you. You did the right thing. You called your fiance` for a ride home when you drank too much. Sungmin made his own choices.” Her fingers brushed his cheeks. “Yoongi, choose life; choose love.”

XXX

Yoongi stormed into his apartment. He didn’t really know what he was doing, but he was determined. He was in love again. He was in love with Jungkook. Two chances in one lifetime was a risk he couldn’t take.

The phone rang and rang while he paced his small apartment. What if Jungkook didn’t want to come back? What if Jungkook didn’t love him back? No, Yoongi shook his head. Jungkook did. He was certain.

“Yoongi,” answered Namjoon.

His feet stumbled only catching himself on the couch. “Hey, Namjoon.”

“It’s good to hear from you. You’ve been missing family dinners. Are you doing okay?”

“Yeah, yeah. I’ll be there next week. You can even drag me there.” Yoongi picked at the threads on the couch. “Actually, I was calling about Jungkook. I want to bring him home.” His chest tightened with the words. He wanted to build Jungkook a kind and loving home.

“Fuck. Yoongi I wish you called sooner. He’s...Jungkook is on an adoption trial right now.”

Yoongi slumped into the couch. His body deflating. He didn’t hear a word Namjoon said. His phone hitting the floor with a smack.

Chapter Text

Jungkook flitted around the edges of the cafeteria heading for the corner table in the back, where his friends usually sat. It was good to have friends. He slipped into the seat next to Taehyung huddling close. They hadn’t been to the park in ages since Taehyung has been so busy, but at least they get to eat together.

Taehyung chuckled holding Jungkook to his side. Jungkook frowned at the only empty chair - Bomi had missed meals for a couple of days. Maybe, she was sick, like Jin was a few weeks ago. Thankfully, Jin was back. The older cat hybrid dropped his meals at the table, long fluffy tail tickling Jungkook’s back as he passed.

Jungkook munched on his delicious food letting everyone chatter around him. He jumped out of his seat as a tray came crashing on top of the table. His ears folded close on the top of his head.

“I know you wouldn’t miss me,” said Bomi filling the empty chair.

Jungkook smiled at her antics. “I missed you,” he said sitting up straight.

Bomi reached across the table swiping his bangs. “Of course, you did, kitty.”

Taehyung’s deep rumbling laugh echoed in Jungkook’s ear as he tried and failed to hide from the table’s adoring eyes.

“How was the sleepover?” asked Taehyung as Bomi settled down.

“Sleepover? Like on TV?” Jungkook asked. That was way better than being sick!

“Kinda. This sleepover was with a human family,” explained Bomi. “They were very nice. They even took me shopping. Look.” She stuck out her arm jingling a new bracelet for everyone to admire. “Sleepovers are the best.”

Jungkook bounced in his seat. “I’d like to have a sleepover, while I wait for Yoongi-hyung.” He couldn’t wait to cuddle with his hyung again.

“Hyung would be very sad without you,” said Taehyung rubbing Jungkook’s arm. Jungkook shrugged. He wasn’t going to leave Yoongi, just have some fun while he waited, like going to the park!

After breakfast, Jungkook and Bomi skipped arm and arm to his room. She told him all about her sleepover. 

Jungkook liked the shelter now. He got his own space, ate meals with his hybrid friends (he’d never had hybrid friends before Jin), saw Jin and went to the park almost every day. It was a good life, but he still wanted to go home - to go to Yoongi and movie nights and sharing the big bed and cooking in the kitchen and taking care of the flower shop. 

Jungkook gave Bomi a big hug as she left to go to her own room. He went to his desk pulling out a marker and workpad. Since he and Taehyung were going to the park this afternoon, he would start his studying now. He couldn’t wait to be able to really read and write!

Knock, knock, knock

Jungkook set down his pen to open his door.

“Hi Jungkookie!” greeted Jin, his smile wasn’t as bright as normal.

“Hyung, come in. I was working on my writing,” said Jungkook bouncing from foot to foot. “Maybe, you can help me.”

“Oh, I’d love to, but I actually need something from you,” said Jin. His tail wrapped tight around his waist.

Jungkook stilled. 

“I need you to pack an overnight bag,” Jin said placing an empty duffle bag on his bed.

“Am I going on a sleepover?” The words rushed out of him. He couldn’t believe it! Maybe he could get some cuddles and curl up in a blanket burrito. He loved Taehyung, but there really wasn’t enough blankets at the shelter. He bounced around the room opening drawers.

“Kind of,” Jin said folding the clothes as Jungkook handed them to him.

A sleepover! Jungkook couldn’t contain his excitement. Did he have everything? He had day and night clothes, underwear and socks. He was wearing his only pair of shoes.

“You’ll be staying with a nice family. They have a young daughter who is excited to be your friend.”

A child? Jungkook frowned. He’d never met a human child before. This would be a great adventure to tell Yoongi, when he came to bring him home. Jungkook shrugged putting his workbook and a marker into the bag.

Jin slung his bag over his shoulder and held Jungkook’s hand, as he led them to the main doors. Jungkook pulled his sweater closer trying to disappear. He’d never been this way before. Very few hybrids went into the main lobby. Jin glanced over tugging them to a stop in the middle of the hallway.

“Hey.” He brushed Jungkook’s flattened ears. “There’s nothing to be afraid of. Namjoon has met them and been to their home. The Cheongs are very happy to meet you. It’s okay to be nervous.” Jin’s tail bumped his own making Jungkook smile. “Come here.”

Jin enveloped Jungkook snuggling him to his wide shoulders. Jungkook buried his nose into Jin’s shirt finding strength to face this new adventure. He didn’t want to go back to a life chained to the floor. He wanted to laugh and cuddle and play fetch with his friends. Jin squeezed him tight.

“You’ll always have a home here.”

Jungkook smiled taking one last breath before stepping away.

He was ready for an adventure.

Jungkook shuffled behind Jin. He’d never been in the front lobby of the shelter before. Taehyung always took the back door, when they went to the park. Jin opened the doors to the front lobby. Jungkook peeked around Jin’s shoulder just in time to see a streak of purple before he was body slammed.

“Yuri.”

Jungkook stumbled back easily supporting his and the little girl’s weight. His body locked in her hold. Her twig arms barely circled his waist. He could feel Jin and Namjoon shuffling behind him ready to intervene. Jungkook gulped looking down at the top of her black pigtails. Her hands curled into his shirt as she looked up to him resting her chin on his stomach.

“Hi,” she chirped giving him a wide toothy smile.

“Hi,” he said still locked in her hold.

“I’m Yuri. Let’s be friends.”

Jungkook chuckled. She was just a kitten. A child who wanted attention. She wasn’t dangerous. He wrapped his arms around her. “I’m Jungkook, your new friend.”

The tension in the room evaporated. Namjoon sighed in relief. Jungkook could use a new friend, especially at a sleepover.

“Eomma, Appa, Jungkook is my friend!” She set him free to the two adults in the lobby. Jungkook couldn’t help but laugh. This would be a fun sleepover. He couldn’t wait to tell Yoongi about it.

The family ushered him into the backseat of their car with Yuri. The kitten could barely contain herself, practically vibrating next to him. His black tail swished around her just out of reach from her chubby, grabby hands. She giggled kicking her feet as they played their name.

The car stopped in front of a small but well-kept home outside of Seoul. Jungkook hadn’t left the city limits before. Taemin, the dad, helped unbuckle Yuri from  her seat, while Jungkook followed Sooyoo into the house. He crept behind her as she showed him the living room, kitchen, bathroom, Yuri’s bedroom and the other bedroom. He peeked around the corners noting a sleeping mat next to Yuri’s tiny bed.

“Eomma!” The pitter-patter of her feet warned them as she skidded around the corner running toward them. 

Jungkook flinched back hiding behind Sooyong, but she only laughed crouching to swing her daughter into her arms.

“What, my darling?”

Yuri giggled smiling at Jungkook.

“I’m hungry. Can we picnic?” asked Yuri.

“Only if Jungkook wants to,” said Sooyong.

Yuri squirmed out of her arms. She clutched her mom’s leg peering around at Jungkook and blinked at him expectantly. 

Jungkook gulped. His tail wrapping around his waist. “O-okay.” He wanted to tell Yoongi all about how brave he was to make new friends, but it was still so scary.

Yuri exploded with energy, cheering.

Jungkook followed Yuri outside while her parents made food for their picnic. The backyard was smaller than the parks he was used to, but he still gaped at the size. This belonged to them. There was no sharing unless they wanted to. A few flowerbeds brought color to the gated yard.

Small hands grabbed his swinging them slightly. Jungkook smiled at Yuri. If she was a hybrid, her tail would be wagging. Yuri led him to the small swing set. It had two seats. Yuri plopped in one watching Jungkook expectantly. 

Grabbing the cold chains Jungkook tentatively sat on the plastic seat. Yuri smiled kicking her feet. Her legs pushed her higher and higher. The chains bit into his hands as he watched her little body fly back and forth. 

She was going to fall. He didn’t want her to. She was so tiny, so free, so happy.

Her feet crashed into the dirt. Jungkook jumped but still she only smiled as her feet dragged across the ground until she stopped. Jungkook sighed in relief.

“Why aren’t you swinging?” frowned Yuri.

“I-um”, Jungkook stuttered. How did he tell her he didn’t know how? How it looked dangerous?

“Here, I’ll help.” She jumped off her seat. She never once stopped smiling. Jungkook’s heart squeezed in his chest. Yuri was too good for this world. She skipped behind him, digging her little hands in his back. “I’ll push. You kick.”

Not wanting to disappoint her, Jungkook kicked off the ground lightly enough that he barely moved. 

Yuri grunted behind him. “Move.”

Jungkook gritted his teeth and pushed off the ground leaning forward. He squeezed the chains and propelled his body forward. Then, he was flying. Free.

Well not really, (thank goodness) but the breeze tangled in his hair and Yuri was jumping beside him squealing in delight. At the backdoor, Sooyong and Taemin were smiling at them. Happiness filled Jungkook with warmth. This was a good sleepover.

“Lunchtime,” called Taemin.

Oh no, how was he supposed to stop? Jungkook’s smile slipped off his face as he stared at the ground.

“Yuri,” Taemin beckoned to her as he jogged over to them, “go help Eomma.” Once she was stepping into the house, Taemin turned to him. “Can I help you, Jungkook?”

Jungkook nodded afraid to move.

“Just hold onto the chains, it’ll be jerky, but you’ll be okay. I’ve got you.”

Jungkook squeezed his eyes shut holding onto the chains with everything he had as Taemin grabbed them forcibly pulling him to a stop. Jungkook’s stomach swooped as he swayed side to side, but it was quickly over.

Taemin rubbed his shoulders. “You did so well Jungkookie.”

Jungkook’s entire body uncoiled as he opened his eyes and let go of the swings. He and Taemin walked to the picnic blanket where Sooyong and Yuri had laid out lunch.

Yuri was so much fun to play with Jungkook decided as they laid together on the living room carpet. Coloring books and markers spread out between them. Yuri loved to fill the silence with little songs and stories. Jungkook smiled at her as she babbled on about the princess she was coloring. The princess was friends with the cat he was coloring. She had given him the page since he was a cat expert according to her. Jungkook was in awe of her bravery. She was so free.

Jungkook loved the shelter and his friends, but there was something special about being with a family that made his muscles uncoil and his smile grow easier.

“Jungkook, Yuri-ah,” called Sooyong. “Let’s have a movie night. Why don’t you two pick what we should watch.”

Yuri popped up scurrying to a cabinet full of rectangular cases. Jungkook followed behind watching her pull a few out before shaking her head and returning them.

“This one!” exclaimed Yuri. “Do you like Totoro, Jungkookie?”

“What is it about?” he asked examining the case she handed over to him.

“Oh! It’s about this cuddle monster that is soo nice and he plays with his neighbors.”

Jungkook scratched his head. He was just happy to please her. “Let’s watch it.”

“You’ll cuddle with me, right?” asked Yuri.

“Of course,” said Jungkook.

Jungkook huffed as Yuri climbed into his lap. This must be her version of cuddling. It was very different from Yoongi’s, but still Jungkook snuggled close. Yoongi never got on top of him before. His tail curled around one of her tiny legs as she petted it. Sooyong and Taemin were on the other couch as they all watched the movie. Is this what having a family was like?

Jungkook stretched under his blankets, snuggling into his pillow. He sighed smiling, warm and content. His ears flicked as someone whispered in the hall. Yoongi? Jungkook perked up shoving the blankets off. His heart dropped into his stomach as he took in the pale pink walls. The sleepover had been nice, but he wanted to go home to Yoongi. Jungkook rolled over to see Yuri still snuggled under her covers.

Jungkook tiptoed out of the room and headed to the bathroom to start his day.

Sooyong was humming to herself when Jungkook entered the kitchen. She smiled at him as he stretched.

“Want to help me make breakfast?” asked Sooyong.

Jungkook nodded, his tummy rumbling.

“Do you know how to work a toaster?”

Jungkook nodded. Yoongi showed him how.

“Perfect. Here’s the bread,” said Sooyong. He held the loaf close to his chest. “And there’s the toaster. We will need seven slices. I’m making some bacon and eggs. They are Yuri’s favorite.”

“Bacon is good,” Jungkook mumbled. One time Yoongi made some for him and occasionally the shelter had it for breakfast. Sooyong reached across the counter patting his head. Jungkook leaned into the touch as she stroked his cat ear.

“I’m glad. We like to have American breakfasts on the weekend.”

Sooyong and Jungkook cooked quietly together, enjoying their easy teamwork. The wonderful smells of breakfast filled the house.

Jungkook sat quietly as they ate together. Sooyong and Taemin fussed over Yuri as butter dotted her little chin. Jungkook chuckled at the sight. Conversation was easy, driven mostly by Yuri. They talked about favorite animals and color of the day. It was very different from the boisterous breakfasts with Taehyung and Bomi.

After breakfast, Yuri took Jungkook’s hand and guided him into the living room. She plopped down onto the ground next to her stuffed animals. She picked each one up examining it so seriously Jungkook could’ve laughed but didn’t. He didn’t want to hurt her feelings. Finally, she handed him the cheetah.

“It’s got spots like you,” she said.

Jungkook’s tail curled around her wrist making her giggle.

“You’re right!”

Jungkook didn’t really know what was going on in their imaginary world. He followed Yuri’s lead hopping the toy around the floor as Yuri babbled along about a world only she could see. She might be an adorable kitten, but Jungkook was bored. He moved his cheetah toy back and forth pretending to know what was happening in Yuri’s story.

“And they’ll live happily together forever,” said Yuri.

Jungkook smiled. Maybe they could color some more or go outside now.

“Just like us,” she smiled at him.

Jungkook froze. Like us? But he’s going back to the shelter.

“I’m glad we’re friends forever.”

“Forever?” asked Jungkook. He couldn’t stay here forever.

“Yep,” she giggled to herself. “Eomma and Appa said you are part of the family now.”

Jungkook’s chest tightened like the house was collapsing on top of him. This wasn’t his home. His family is Yoongi.

“You sleep in my room at night and be with Eomma during the day and, and, and…”

Jungkook scrambled to his feet knocking into the walls as he tried to stay standing. He stumbled to the bathroom falling onto the tile. He slammed the door shut flicking the lock.

Jungkook was waiting for Yoongi not a new family.

Jungkook sobbed. He wanted to go home, to Yoongi. He didn’t need a new family.

“Jungkookie,” said Taemin outside the door.  “What happened? What can we do to make you feel better?”

Jungkook wedged himself in the farthest corner of the bathroom huddling inside the tub. He flung the shower curtain closed as if that would keep him far away from them as possible, but still he could hear Taemin and Sooyong talk to each other through the door.

“They were playing dolls so nicely together. I just don’t understand,” said Sooyong.

“I thought everything was going so well. What could have happened?” said Taemin.

“Namjoon said he’d had poor owners before us,” reminded Sooyong. “It takes time.”

“I know, Sooyong-ah, but think of Yuri. Can we really afford to have a hybrid who needs more care? Will Yuri understand?”

Jungkook held his breath pressing himself into the cold plastic wall of the tub. Take me home. Take me home. All he wanted was Yoongi’s rickety apartment and tiny jungle of a greenhouse. He wanted to go home.

Sooyong sighed. “I’ll call the shelter.”

XXX

Yoongi fidgeted with his zipper  as the buildings of Seoul sped past. He really couldn’t believe it--Yoongi was finally going to bring Jungkook home, if he wanted to, of course. Jin and Namjoon swore up and down Jungkook missed him, but he needed to hear it for himself. The cat hybrid could hate him. Afterall, he did call the shelter and abandoned him, but that was before...Yoongi was better now--not perfect, but who was? He was ready to find his happily ever after.

Yoongi groaned as Namjoon’s elbow came flying out of nowhere jamming into his ribs. He turned glaring at his friend.

“Yoongi, hand me that bandage wrap,” said Namjoon not even looking up from the backpack he was packing.

Yoongi kicked the roll closer and handed it to Namjoon. Jin glanced worriedly from the driver’s seat, but Namjoon didn’t even lift his head continuing to prepare the emergency medical kit as they drove.

“Is that even necessary?” asked Yoongi.

Namjoon shrugged. “Sooyong didn’t say much on the phone, just that Jungkook was distressed and needed to go home.”

Yoongi frowned. He never wanted to see Jungkook injured ever again. He’d been through so much already.

They turned into a suburban neighborhood. It was picture perfect - just the place Yoongi always imagined for Jungkook, but maybe everyone was right. Yoongi could give him the picture perfect life Jungkook deserves. He had to try.

Jin parked the car in front of a small house. It was the perfect size for a small family. It even had a backyard. Yoongi craned his head over the fence to see a little girl playing.

A man, Taemin, opened the door before Jin could even lift his fist to knock.

“I’m so happy you are here,” he said ushering them inside.

The trio didn’t even have time to put on the guest slippers before he was steering them down the hall.

“I don’t know what happened. Yuri and Jungkook were getting along so well, so Sooyong and I left them alone to play and then the next thing we hear is Jungkook slamming the bathroom door shut. We’ve tried to talk to him through the door, but nothing has worked. I just want him to be okay,” rushed Taemin.

“Thank you for calling us,” said Namjoon. “We want everyone to be happy in any household.”

Jin shuffled to the door, while Yoongi shifted side to side itching to get closer, but he stood back. Jin and Namjoon were the experts here.

“Jungkookie,” called Jin. The humans in the hallway waited with bated breath for any sign of Jungkook on the other side of the door.

“Jinnie?” sniffled Jungkook. They could barely hear his tired voice. Yoongi inched closer.

Namjoon and Jin smiled at each other. 

“It’s good he’s answering us,” whispered Namjoon to Taemin and Yoongi.

Jin waved Yoongi over to the door, but he wasn’t not ready. What if Jungkook hated him? Yoongi shook his head stepping backwards and bumping into the wall.

Jin sighed rolling his eyes. His long fluffy tail whipped out curling around Yoongi’s wrist to drag him to the bathroom door.

“I’ve brought someone special to see you,” called Jin.

The bathroom remained silent.

Jin pushed onward determined to announce Yoongi’s presence hoping it’d bring Jungkook out.. “Yoongi says hi.”

“H-hi, Jung-”

The door whipped open, and a hand shot out to grab his wrist. Yoongi didn’t fight hurrying through the bathroom door before he could finish saying the hybrid’s name. Jungkook slammed the door shut flipping the lock.

Jungkook looked well - healthy even, not that Yoongi doubted Namjoon and Jin. He had gained muscles since the last time Yoongi had seen him making him seem stronger. He was a far cry away from the malnourished and abused cat-hybrid hiding in Yoongi’s alley.

“Jungkook, I - “ Yoongi tried again.

“Hyung,” cried Jungkook jumping onto Yoongi. His arms securely held Yoongi as Jungkook rubbed his cheek against the side of Yoongi’s face, effectively scenting him.“Hyung, I missed you.”

With those soft mumbled words all of Yoongi’s worries disappeared. He melted into Jungkook’s embrace. He missed him so much. Finally, they were home.

Yoongi’s not quite sure how it happened, but their cuddle fest melted to the ground. His back firmly pressed against the door as Jungkook sat in his lap holding him like a koala, but there was no other place in the world he’d rather be.

He rubbed Jungkook’s back smoothing his hands over his limbs to make sure Jungkook wasn’t hurt. He loved that Jungkook still wanted him after Yoongi shoved him away, but Jungkook was in such distress when they arrived. Although shy at first, Jungkook liked people. If he wasn’t physically hurt, then what happened? The questions circled through his mind as he rested his head on Jungkook’s shoulder. At least his height was good for something.

“Kookie,” Yoongi whispered afraid to disturb their corner of the world.

Jungkook hummed in answer tickling him with his hair as he rubbed his check on every part of Yoongi he could reach.

“What did Yuri do to upset you?”

Yoongi could feel Jungkook’s fists curl into the back of his shirt. “They wanted to keep me forever, but they can’t because they aren’t my family. You are. I love you, Yoongi.” His voice was so soft. If they weren’t tangled together, Yoongi wouldn’t have heard him. Jungkook sat up looking Yoongi in the eye, so sure of himself. Yoongi was envious of his confidence.

Yoongi threaded his fingers into Jungkook’s baby hairs taking in his sharp eyes, tall ears and strong nose. Yoongi wanted to remember this moment forever. Oh, how much would Sungmin have loved Jungkook. It was wonderful falling deeply and madly in love again.

“I love you too, kitten. I was so wrong to push you away.”

“Hyung, I knew you’d come for me.”

“I was wrong. I was so afraid of loving again, but I want to prove my love for you every day, if you will let me.”

Tears gracefully glided down the curve of Jungkook’s cheek. “I’ve never been given a choice before.”

“It’s your life, Jungkook. You should have every chance to pick your path.”

“When did you become a poet?” He sniffled. His cheeks flushed pink.

“Since I fell in love with you.” He loved seeing Jungkook get flustered as Jungkook covered his face with his long but delicate hands. Precious.

“Can we go home, hyung?”

“Nothing would make me happier.”

XXX

Jungkook pulled the covers closer trying to ignore the light shining on his face, making their entire bedroom hot. He rolled over snuggling onto Yoongi’s chest. Yoongi’s arms immediately held Jungkook’s waist, pulling him closer. Jungkook smiled, blinking up at his sleepy hyung’s face.

It was good to be home. For years, Jungkook never thought he’d be loved and know how to love in return, but Yoongi changed everything. Sure, they made mistakes along the way, but they were better people for it.

Jungkook nuzzled Yoongi’s chest one more time before rolling away. He stretched across the bed arching his back, spreading his toes and wiggling his fingers. Now he was ready to start the day.

As he readied Yoongi’s coffee and his tea, Jungkook pondered about what they should do today. Sugar Petals was closed and the sun was lighting up their apartment. They needed to go outside.

Jungkook stirred a spoonful of sugar into his tea before taking his cup to the living room. He plopped down on the couch unplugging their shared cell phone. He sat back, sipping  his tea enjoying the quiet morning, as he scrolled through his hybrid friends’ newsfeed catching up on what happened throughout their days and sending messages.

Jungkook finished his message to Jin before heading to the kitchen. Rustling could be heard from their bedroom. The fridge snickered open. It was pretty empty. They needed to go to the store this afternoon, but Jungkook thought they had enough ingredients for omurice, which he learned from Youtube. 

Yoongi shuffled into the kitchen wrapping an arm around Jungkook’s waist as he kissed his cheek. Jungkook blushed as butterflies swooped in his stomach. He hoped he always felt this loved with Yoongi. 

At first, they ate in silence as Yoongi slowly woke up. Jungkook pulled his math workbook closer. His brows pinched together as he thought through the latest worksheet. Sometimes math and reading made his brain hurt (Namjoon and Yoongi assured him it’s difficult for everyone at first), but he wanted to get better at it.

The more he knows, the more he can help at the shop, around the house and the shelter. He just wanted to help his family.

Yoongi placed his hand over Jungkook’s. “Thank you for breakfast,” Yoongi’s low rumbly voice rolled over him like ocean waves.

Jungkook didn’t know what to say to compliments like these, and Yoongi said them a lot. Instead, his face got as red as a rose and his heart skipped a beat. Yoongi told him long ago that Jungkook didn’t have to say anything at all.

“Hyung, can we go to the park this morning, while the weather is nice?” asked Jungkook.

Yoongi squeezed his hand. “Of course.”

Yoongi laughed as Jungkook walked behind him almost stepping on his heels. His black speckled tail poked Yoongi’s back trying to get him to walk to the bedroom faster. He laughed at Jungkook’s urging. Just to annoy Jungkookie more, he moved at a snail’s pace over-exaggerating every tiny movement just as they reached the door.

“Hyung,” Jungkook whined while pushing him into the room.

Yoongi stumbled, laughing, and watched Jungkook race to his dresser. He smiled at the hybrid as his fingers  danced over the folded shirts and basketball shorts before pulling out each item delicately so as to not disturb the others. It was only a few months ago, but Jungkook cherished everything Yoongi had given him - even his own dresser. Yoongi would give him the world if he could.

Yoongi turned to his own messy dresser shuffling clothes around until he found his favorite pair of basketball shorts and an old t-shirt yanking them on.

Jungkook bounced on his toes waiting at the front door, while Yoongi retrieved their basketball. Everything about Jungkook was begging for Yoongi to move faster. His golden eyes tracked every movement. His ears and tail were at attention.

“Are you sure you are a cat hybrid? You are too excited to play at the park.” Yoongi chuckled as Jungkook stomped his foot with a whine. Yoongi walked out the front door leaving him behind. “Come on, kitten,” he called over his shoulder, enjoying the way Jungkook fumbled with his keys to lock the door.

Jungkook skipped down the stairs,quickly catching up to Yoongi. He swung their hands as they walked down the street to their park. Yoongi adored seeing Jungkook like this, happy and free - just like how he was always supposed to be.

Of course, they both had their bad days - Jungkook never wanting to leave his side and Yoongi hit by wave after wave of guilt and grief - but they got through them together, because together they made each other better.