Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Past 

Blur. Jiyeon sees nothing but a blur as she tries to recover from the slap she took to the face. Mina is standing over her, looking at her with pure hatred in her eyes. 

Jiyeon had been working as an in-house housekeeper for Mina. Mina, a woman of elegance and one that prided herself in her religion, so much so that it was intertwined in her daily life and in raising her son, Hyunjin, to become a priest. Jiyeon had been feeling very ill lately and Mina called the family doctor to come in and check on her. And that’s when the doctor said that the reason she was feeling so sick lately is because she was pregnant. 

8 weeks pregnant.

In a moment of pure and innocent love that had built up over time, Hyunjin and Jiyeon gave in. Had they stayed together, it could have flourished into something beautiful, but it was too late now. Hyunjin had left for the seminary a month ago and now Jiyeon is faced with a woman that was screaming at her for tainting her beloved son and his path to priesthood.

Run.

Jiyeon ran away and never looked back. Her best friend Hana helped her find a new job at a clothing factory and found a place for both of them to rent. They were just two nineteen year-olds trying to make it out of the poverty they grew up in, fiercely motivated to become successful and move on from the life surrounding them. 

7 months later Jiyeon gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. She cooed every time her baby smiled and laughed, seeing his cute little dimples pop out every time. She absolutely adored him, determined to give him the best life possible. 

Mina found out that she had given birth, driven by revenge and a supposed plan of God to punish the one that made her son sin, she devised something to prevent any future problems, the main one being Hyunjin finding out he is a father. 

3 months after the birth of her son, Jiyeon is walking home from her job at the clothing factory. It’s late at night, few street lights surround her so she lets the moonlight guide her and her baby boy home. “Jae baby, my little moonchild, we’re lucky my boss lets me bring you to work. I don’t know how Hana and I would work this out otherwise.” she says. Jiyeon and Hana usually worked the same shifts, but were occasionally given different days off, tonight being one of the nights where it was just her and Jae.

Jiyeon was walking along a dirt path when she suddenly saw blinding car lights making their way towards her - only having time to turn around and shield her baby boy from the impact. She sees nothing but a blur once again, this time with headlights right above her face as she tries to get up, failing to do so. She hears her baby crying, looking over to vaguely make out a dark figure picking Jae up and getting back into the car with him. Jiyeon is screaming out for someone to help but it’s a desolate night. The car rapidly reverses to turn around and leave the scene, the only thing she can make out is the slowly fading red car lights going off into the distance. Shock slowly starts wearing off as she starts to cry, realizing that the light of her life is no longer with her. While the car did not hit her as hard as it could have, she can’t do anything but look up into the night sky and let her tears continue to spill out. 

The moon shines down brightly on her, being the sole witness of the tragic turn of events. After what seems like hours, she barely manages to get up and continue to walk home. She steps into her apartment, covered in dirt, blood and scratches, bruises forming all over her body.

“Jiyeon, you’re finally - oh my god, what happened to you, where is Jae!?!?!” Hana yells as she sees the condition her best friend is in, hands trembling, waiting for her to explain.

“He’s gone, my baby boy is gone.”

Chapter Text

22 Years Later

“Congratulations Namjoon!” shouts a chorus of people. Namjoon flashes his dimpled smile to everyone around him. A small lunch celebration was taking place in the hall of the orphanage, enjoying each other's company. He just graduated from Sogang University, double majoring in astrophysics and art history with a minor in fashion design to top it off. Namjoon’s mind has always taken an interest in a lot of subjects, so he decided to study as much as he could. 

Growing up in the St. Joseph Orphanage, he truly got lucky, or blessed as the nuns say. Namjoon is happy, thankful that he ended up at this particular orphanage in the outskirts of Seoul. He heard terrible stories of how other children had been treated in other places, but not here. His mind would often wander as to who his parents were and if they were still in the city. Were they still alive? Did they truly not want him? Were they in a situation where they couldn’t keep him or afford to give him the life they wanted? Did he have any siblings? So many questions filled up his head, countless thoughts running through it on quiet nights where he would just look up at the night sky wondering what his life would have been like if he had at least one of his parents. He tries to not dwell on it too much. All he knows is that he was dropped off here one late December night, the nuns finding him the next morning outside the building’s main entrance, bundled up to protect him from the cold winter weather.  It’s a Catholic orphanage, funded and sustained through the Catholic Church and the generosity of donors. Orphanages were a rarity these days, most of them restructured as government group homes, with more children going into the foster care system or adoption agencies. And even rarer was the quality of life the children here had at the small institution, one that is well managed by people that truly cared, allowing them to provide children with what can be compared to a middle class upbringing. 

Most had to leave by the time they turned 18 but Namjoon is so adored by the nuns and staff that they offered him a position at the orphanage while he pursued a higher education. Namjoon is a kind soul, supportive in many ways. He's always looking out for everyone, helping children with homework and playing with them - it was an easy decision that he gladly said yes to. 

Religion has always been a tricky subject for him, never really being able to fully embrace it. Through his teen years, he felt tremendous guilt, his brain clashing with the idea of different types of beliefs versus the idea of just not having one. He felt like he owed it to the place and people that raised him to be a true believer but he just couldn’t. He regularly attended the church next to the orphanage out of respect and routine, but the inner turmoil built up one day, leading him to completely break down in front of Sister Seoyeon. He kept apologizing over and over and she just listened to him as he let it all out. 

“Namjoon, please don’t torment yourself anymore. It’s okay, I promise you it’s okay”

“Wh-what? You’re not mad at me?” he sobbed out. 

“Namjoon, of course not. You’ve always been curious and open minded, but never once have you been disrespectful to our faith, or any beliefs for that matter. That’s all we can ask from all of you growing up here. We just want all of you to be the best versions of yourselves that you can be, to become good and respectful people. While yes, we would like all you kids here to join the church, we want you all to do it willingly, we don’t want to force it on you because that’s how it all goes wrong.”

Namjoon lets out a big sigh of relief, furrowing his brows yet giving a small smile to the petite woman in front of him.

Since then, Namjoon has confided in her even more, thanking his lucky stars that she was the one that raised him. It was nice seeing a woman of faith be so accepting, his love for her as a mother figure grew day by day ever since then.

Namjoon snaps out of the part of his mind that had taken him back to his teenage years, instead settling on  the memories of his 4 years in college. He got a full ride scholarship, allowing him to save most of the money he made for life after it. He loved going to classes and reading everything he could get his hands on, spending countless hours in the library. He didn’t really go out much during his time there, a party here and there but it wasn’t really his scene, preferring to go out into the city and surrounding areas, exploring as much of it as he could as he was no longer limited to the outer parts of Seoul. He made two really great friends, Hoseok and Yoongi, through his elective music production courses. Yoongi is a year older than them and graduated the year before. This had made the younger duo sad, not having their favorite hyung around as much anymore, but they all made sure to text and meet up with each other when their schedules allowed them to. 

Namjoon and Hoseok graduated together, happy energy vibrating through them as Hoseok’s family and Sister Seoyeon cheered them on from the crowd. The duo were excited to meet up with Yoongi tomorrow to celebrate as a trio. However, today there were different plans after the current celebration. The orphanage had been invited as special guests to attend a small charity event put on by House Jiyeon, one of St. Joseph’s longtime funders - and one of the biggest fashion brands in the country. Namjoon heard the name growing up, seeing a donor recognition plaque going up in the reception area as a child. She has visited a couple of times, very rarely from what he saw, but he did catch a glimpse of her a few times, feeling thankful that people like her existed. She had invited staff beforehand to past fundraisers, but this would be the first time Namjoon and the children would get to tag along.  

He is excited, fashion and clothing being a creative outlet for him, even modeling for Yoongi at times, who had double majored in Fine Arts (emphasis in photography) and Music Production. It was spur of the moment decision, choosing fashion design as a minor but he has always had interest in it. Big oversized muted colored clothes one day, fitted striking colored outfits another, always trying different combinations and styles. He often looked into smaller brands and designers, occasionally treating himself to a piece of clothing he really liked.

“Joon hyung, I want to be like you when I grow up, you’re so smart and cool. You have to teach me how to be like you! Please please please!” shouts four year old Minho.

Namjoon smiles, “Of course Min, you know I’m always here to help. But for now, let’s go enjoy the show, okay?”

“Okie hyung” says little boy, grabbing Namjoon’s hand, waiting for everyone else was to finish getting ready. 

Moments later, everyone is all settled in two passenger vans and taking off to the destination, a small venue accommodating around 100 people. As they enter to take their seats, they see a catwalk in the back center accompanied by temporary walls, two seated sections on each side with some guests ready to spectate the show.

“Taehyung, is everything set for today’s charity showcase? You didn’t forget anything right? Oh, and make sure you have both the filled out check and blank check please!” 

“Mom, everything is set, don’t worry.” reassures Taehyung.

“You never know with you…” she murmurs as she gets on the phone. 

“Well not today, I swear I triple checked everything!” Taehyung responds as he puts the checks in the hidden pocket of his black jacket. He looks at his mom, who is on the phone with one of her lead designers. Jiyeon was someone he really looked up to, glad his dad, Jungho, decided to give marriage another chance with her. His biological mother had passed away when he was 2 years old,  Jungho rarely talked about her, always going quiet when she was mentioned. Jiyeon has been everything he could have asked for in a mother, and even though she’s technically his stepmom, he sees her as his real mom. He takes a moment, silently acknowledging the life he has, the opportunities and experiences he’s been fortunate enough to have - his mom a famous designer and brand owner, his father an actor. Although they’ve always been a busy pair, they have always given it their all to raising Taehyung and his younger brother with unconditional love, often taking them to work as children so they wouldn’t spend as much time apart. 

Taehyung smiles at his memories, waiting for Jiyeon to get off the phone.

“Are you ready, Mom?” he asks.

“Yes, let’s go put everything in the car and get going, everything seems to be ready at the venue minus the small items we’re taking.” she replies. They finish gathering the stuff they’re taking, Jungho waiting for them in the car, heading out soon after.

A multitude of dresses, suits and other ensembles made their way down the runway. Namjoon is entranced by the show, so are Minho and the kids around him, all in awe at the models coming down the runway. A stunning dark rust colored evening gown one second, a flowy casual outfit the next, a continuous stream of pieces for all occasions. 

The show lasted about 20 minutes, highlighting House Jiyeon’s designs for the upcoming release. A small intermission followed after, giving those invited a chance to reserve and buy pieces modeled. 

“Hello everyone, I’m glad all of you could make it today. I hope you enjoyed the new collection House Jiyeon is releasing in two weeks. Today is especially important because we have St. Joseph Orphanage here. We have been supporting them for a long time and I’m glad we finally got the chance to have all of them here. I'm sorry it took me a long time to invite you children.” Jiyeon looks over at them smiling from the middle of the catwalk.

“It’s okay, we’re here now.” responds Minho. The crowd laughs, all eyes on the little one in the front row now.

“Oh my god Minho, she didn’t address you directly.” whispers Namjoon who is seated behind him, quietly giggling into his hand right after, unable to contain his fondness over the young child and his actions. 

“Well, I’m glad then.” Jiyeon softly laughs out. “Sister Seoyeon, may you please come up here so I may present you a check of 50 million won, and another one of 30 million won that was raised today.”

A big thank you comes from staff and children. “Jiyeon, we are forever grateful for the support your company has given us throughout all these years, may God continue to bless you and your work, thank you so much.” says Sister Seoyeon as she accepts the check.

“You’re welcome, you can always count on us.” Jiyeon and Seoyeon pose for a picture at the request of the photographers present.  

“With that, the event has concluded, thank you again everyone, we hope to continue to count on your support. Please enjoy the rest of your day” Jiyeon finishes. 

“You’re welcome, but also thank you.” Minho responds yet again and laughs fill up the venue for the second time. Taehyung looks over to the cute kid again when he notices the person holding his hand. An breathy wow comes out of him. The person, a young man around his age, is trying not to laugh, dimples peeking out as he gently ruffles said cute kid’s hair. Taehyung keeps staring at him, noticing how he takes his time to thank the venue and company staff around him. His light hair pairs well with his golden skin, the white loose dress shirt and fitted jeans complimenting his height and features. 

Dimples. Sweet. Pretty. 

Chapter Text

Namjoon is making sure all the children are accounted for before they head out the venue. He’s taking one last look around the place when he locks eyes with someone who is already staring at him. 

Oh. 

He’s staring at Namjoon with a curious yet piercing gaze, hair styled in soft curls, dressed in black suit. 

He must work for House Jiyeon, or maybe one of the other guests? He’s really handsome. He blushes a little. 

“Namjoon hyung I think we have to go.” Minho says looking up at him, tapping his arm to get his attention. 

He snaps out of the staring contest, sending over a soft smile to the young man as Minho and him walk out. 

Taehyung is standing still, watching the pair leave and the guy's smile immediately replaying in his head. 

That was...something. 

He heads back to help everyone clean up and put everything away. Production staff is quick to take apart the runway and additonal props used, Taehyung and his parents are the last ones to walk out.

Namjoon is enjoying the time he has left in the orphanage, he leaves at the end of the month, July marking the start of a new beginning. He has been living in a small room on the staff side of the orphanage but will be moving into an apartment with Hoseok in the same building Yoongi lives in, eager to jump into a new chapter of his life with his best friends. It had been an eventful afternoon, he was resting in his room, reading before going to bed. 

It’s the next day and Namjoon is getting dressed, finalizing his outfit for the day out with Yoongi and Hoseok.

“Namjoon hyung, Yoonie hyung and Hobi hyung are here!” Minho shouts, knocking energetically on his door. 

“I’ll be out in a minute, thank you for letting me know Min.” he responds, making sure he has his wallet, phone, keys and other essentials in his bag. He walks out towards the reception area, where he sees his best friends.

“Yoongi hyung, Hobi!!!” Namjoon excitedly says as he speed walks towards the two. Hoseok and him quickly hug before he gives a big hug to Yoongi, he hadn’t seen him in about 2 weeks, which is a lot for him considering he was used to seeing him almost every day at one point. 

“Hey Joon, congratulations once again! I have little something for you.” Yoongi hands him a small gift wrapped box.

“Thank you hyung, you shouldn’t have.” 

“Of course I had to, I wanted to. I think you’ll really like it.” Yoongi gives him a gummy smile.

“Let’s head out, we’re done with school and it’s time to enjoy one of our first days of freedom!” Hobi animatedly follows up. They get into Yoongi’s car and head out to one of their favorite brunch spots. 

“So what’s the plan now that you guys have graduated? I’m glad we’ll be living in the same building now.” Yoongi asks while they’re waiting for their food.

“I’ll still be working at the dance studio, they’re giving me my own classes to lead starting in fall but they will be raising my pay soon now that I’ve graduated, I’m so excited, I get to do my own choreo!” Hoseok exclaims, clapping his hands lightly. 

“Wow Hobi, yay! You have to invite us to your first class, want to see our dancing machine in action.” Namjoon responds, beaming. 

“Yea, you’ll have to invite us, you can even use some of the tracks we made? You have a selection to choose from.” Yoongi replies.

“Oh my god, you’re right. Now I’m even more excited for my classes!”

“What about you Joon? Did you hear back from the Seoul Children’s Museum?” Yoongi questions.

“I actually did! They told me I’d be a good fit for the second floor Space Exhibit. They also recently got a grant from the partnership with the Seoul Museum of Science and they’re looking for someone to help with research. I got offered hours for that too, so I would technically be working for both museums, but mostly just at one site, going to the Seoul Museum of Science when needed.” Namjoon explains.

“Look at our Joonie, I’m so proud, that’s so awesome! The kids are going to be all over you like they are at St. J’s!” Hobi says. 

“That’s amazing Joon. You worked really hard for this, it’s paying off.” Yoongi comments as their food arrives, American style brunch - waffles, eggs, sausage and hash browns. The café is cozy, plants, comfortable seating and the wood design being its main features. 

“Yea, I’m really excited! I’m glad things are falling into place but I still want to do something with my minor, like a side project you know? Still thinking about what exactly but I’ll come up with something.”

They continue eating until they are stuffed. They head out to a nearby park, walking around for a bit before Yoongi pulls out his camera, taking shots of Namjoon and Hoseok, the beginning of the summer season providing the perfect lighting, all three filled with happiness.

“So how was the event yesterday? I’m sorry I couldn’t make it, finishing my project took me longer than I expected.” apologizes Jungkook, Taehyung’s younger brother. He was in his first year of university, studying film and video production.  Their parents had Jungkook the September before his second birthday, by that time Jungho and Yerin - Taehyung’s biological mother - had been separated for almost a year and a half, Jungho taking full custody of Taehyung at 6 months old. 

“It’s okay. And it went really well, we raised a lot for St. Joseph, I’m really happy I got to invite them all this time.” Jiyeon answered, crinkling eyes showing her contentment.

“You can come with us next time, and Mom - why is St. Joseph is so special to you?” asks Taehyung. He doesn’t miss how she slightly stiffens.

“It’s just a really special cause to me for different reasons, I didn’t really grow up with my parents, it was mainly my grandmother that raised me.” Jiyeon quietly replies, eyes a little unfocused, as if she was recalling something.

“...I didn’t realize your parents were away that much, sorry. It’s just, you never really talk about it? Not that you have to tell us everything, obviously, I was just curious more than anything.” 

“It’s okay Tae, I know. I just like giving back, I think it’s important we all do our part to help others. Speaking of, one of the guests yesterday decided to write St. Joseph a check but they had left already when he went to go look for them.”

Dimpled cutie.

“I can go drop it off.” Taehyung didn’t even have to think about it.

“I was just going to mail it out.” Jiyeon raises an eyebrow at him.

“I’ll go with him! I think it’s a good idea, we get to see the place for ourselves” Jungkook cheerfully comments.

Jiyeon hums. “Okay, let me give you the address.”

Taehyung and Jungkook are almost at the orphanage. It’s not that far but enough to get away from main parts of Seoul, the sun slowly disappearing into the evening. They get to the building, parking in front of the church next to it. The building is a light grey color, relatively modern looking, like an apartment complex. Taehyung goes up to the entrance, Jungkook close behind. He presses the doorbell, taking in their surroundings. 

The door opens, “Hello, how may I help you two today?”

Taehyung recognizes her as Sister Seoyeon. Both him and Jungkook bow respectfully, “Hi, we’re actually here to drop off another check from yesterday’s event. I’m Taehyung, and this is my brother Jungkook, we’re Jiyeon’s sons.”

“Oh! Please come in. We weren’t expecting anyone, you caught us by surprise when I heard our door ring. Most of the children are eating dinner right now.”

They walk through the reception area and then see the dining hall, one side of it sliding doors that showed the courtyard, soccer balls and a small garden being the first things they notice, a couple of children playing. 

The brothers step inside, close to the doorway and wave hello at everyone, not wanting to interrupt their dinnertime. Seoyeon explains who they are, Minho and two of the other children, Nari and Beomsoo, coming to say hello personally. 

Minho looks up at Jungkook, “I really like your earrings, do they hurt?”

“The earrings no,” Jungkook giggles, “The initial piercing felt like a quick pinch.” The three kids quickly engaged in a conversation with Jungkook. Taehyung looks to his side right when Namjoon walks in.

They both looked at each other surprised.

“Um, hi, I’m Namjoon.” he introduces himself.

The other smiles. “Hi, I’m Taehyung.”

“You’re the one from yesterday, yes?” Namjoon asks, referring to their little stare contest the day before.

“Uh, yea, that was me.” Taehyung clears his throat, a bit embarrassed. “We came to drop off a donation, one of the guests wanted to give the check personally but you all had left already.”

“Oh, I see. That’s kind of him, I’m sorry we missed him. But thank you again for yesterday, I’m assuming you work for House Jiyeon?”

“Yea, I do. She’s also my mom, that’s my little brother Jungkook over there.” He points to Jungkook, who is getting dragged into the courtyard by the three children.

Namjoon sighs. “Those three together are something else, I hope your brother doesn’t mind getting bombarded with random questions and games.”

“It's okay. He actually wanted to tag along, we’ve heard my mom talk about St. Joseph but we've never been here. I think it was time, it’s a very nice place and the kids look happy -  you work here?

“Yea, I work here, but I’m leaving at the end of the month.” Taehyung furrows his brows, Namjoon smiles at him and looks out into the courtyard as he continues, “I just graduated college and I’m starting a new job soon so yea, it’s time for me to go. Been here my whole life but I’m ready to see what’s next.” 

“Oh, I didn’t realize…” Taehyung mumbles out.

Namjoon softly giggles. “It’s okay, most kids here leave at 18 but they asked me to stay and work while I finished school.” 

Why is Namjoon so damn cute?  “Well, congratulations on taking the next step. Where are you moving to?”

“Thank you. And a little closer to the center of Seoul. Didn’t want to be too far from here.”

“Makes sense...uh - do you need any help moving out?” Taehyung finishes off, words coming out before fully realizing what he just said for the second time that day, internally facepalming as he waits for a response.”

It was Namjoon’s turn to blush, “Ohh, umm, I was gonna ask my best friends but an extra hand would be nice, I don’t think I have too much but I guess we’ll find out.” 

Taehyung grins. “When should I come by?”

“I leave exactly 2 weeks from today, hmm, around noon?”

“Sounds perfect to me. I should get going, early day tomorrow and I don’t want to keep anyone here from their schedules since we randomly stopped by.”

“Yea sure, I’ll see you later then, it was nice meeting you.”

“Likewise, I’ll see you again in two weeks.” Namjoon stares as Taehyung goes out to get Jungkook, the children complaining that their new friend was leaving. Namjoon laughs as they exit the building, looking forward to seeing Taehyung again soon.

What just happened? I’ve never felt like this. Namjoon thought to himself as he walked to the kitchen to get something to snack on before calling it a night. 

It’s the next morning and everyone is in the common area, “Hello everyone, as you know, Father Chinmae has left to go to another parish to continue his service in a new setting. The person replacing him is here, may you please come in and introduce yourself Father.”

A man walks in, looking younger than any of the priests they’ve had, a warm smile on his face. “Hi everyone, my name is Father Hyunjin.”

Chapter Text

Father Hyunjin is a really nice man, he has a very calming presence that extends to those around him. They have all gathered in the church’s courtyard to get to know each other better, along with the two new church staff that joined with him. 

“Hi Father Hyunjin, my name is Namjoon. It’s nice to meet you.” Namjoon gives him a smile as he introduces himself. 

Father Hyunjin looks at him and gets hit with a feeling he hasn't felt in a while.  Those eyes remind me of someone.

“Hello Namjoon, it’s nice to meet you too. I’m looking forward to getting acquainted with everyone, this place feels really special.” 

“It is special. I’m actually leaving at the end of the month but I will be coming by often, this place means the world to me. Looking forward to getting to know you and the new staff. ”

“Ah, well, I’m sure you’ll do great in whatever you have planned next. Sister Seoyeon spoke very highly of you earlier, you two seem very close.” 

“She did? Oh...yea, we are. She’s always been very understanding and patient with me. She raised me, she knows me best out of everyone.” Namjoon smiles again looking over to where Seoyeon is.

Father Hyunjin smiles at that. He senses that everyone here is really close to each other, they truly seem like a big family. It’s his first time working with an orphanage associated with the church, but he already has a really good feeling about this place.

“Joon hyung”

“Yes Minho?”

“Um, when is Googie-hyung coming again? He said he would visit.” 

“Googie hyung?” Namjoon thinks. “Wait, Jungkook?”

“Yea, I miss Googie hyung” Minho replies with wide eyes. “He’s really nice and fun.”

Namjoon coos at him. “Well, I’m not sure Min. But if he said he’s coming back then I’m sure he will, okay?”

“Okay hyung, I will wait then.”

“Ahh, you’re so cute!” Namjoon tickles the boy until they’re both laughing loudly. It’s the day before he’s leaving, he’s excited but can’t help but feel a little bittersweet. They calm down and enjoy each other’s company, both sitting on the bench as they see the other kids play around in the yard. 

“Hyung…” Minho says, barely above a whisper. Namjoon looks at him and sees his eyes starting to water. “I’m really going to miss you.” he chokes out as he starts crying. 

“Oh Min baby, come here.” He grabs Minho to place him on his lap and hug him, rubbing his back. Namjoon starts to tear up too but he really doesn’t want to cry on his last day here. “I'll be visiting,  you can call me, we’ll keep in touch I promise. I love you all too much to not come around often.” he finishes, kissing the young boy’s hair. Minho continues to cry, Nari and Beomsoo notice and start walking towards them.

“Min, are you okay, why you crying?” Nari looks at her friend, slightly frowning while gently patting his head. 

Beomsoo hugs Min from behind, staying quiet, all three of them ending up on Namjoon in some way.

Minho whines, not being able to reply properly as he is still crying a bit and hiccuping. 

“He’s a little sad right now, he’ll talk when he’s ready okay?” Namjoon tells the two.

“Okay.” the two respond at the same time. 

15 minutes pass when Minho speaks again, having calmed down from crying. “I’m gonna miss Namjoonie hyung a lot, that’s why I cry.”

“Oh, yea...it makes me sad too but I’m also happy he finished univ-univer...uhhh, how do you say it right?” Beomsoo asks shyly. 

Namjoon chuckles. “U-ni-ver-sity” slowly saying it so Beomsoo could repeat after him.

“Yea, that, u...nivers...ity.” Beomsoo beams after repeating as best as he could. Namjoon beams back at him, ruffling his hair. 

“Also Namjoon oppa said he’ll visit us! So we’re still going to see him!” Nari adds happily, holding Minho’s hand.

“Everything will be okay, you three are my babies, I won’t be far.” Namjoon tells them.

The three of them whine, a chorus of “We’re not babies, we’re just little.” surrounds him, making him laugh. They get off the bench a little after to go to dinner, ending the day off on a good note. 

8am. Namjoon wakes up to his alarm going off, slowly getting ready for the day. My last couple of hours here. He picks out a colorful, patterned sweater and some jeans to wear for the day. He goes to the dining hall, some of the children eating already.

“Namjoon, good morning. How are you feeling?” Seoyeon looks at him, eyes crinkling, smiling. 

“I feel good, a little bittersweet, but mostly good.”

She cups his face, rubbing her thumb gently under his left eye. “I’m so proud of you. I know you’ll do great things, I love you very much.”

Namjoon looks at her and this time he can’t help but tear up. He gives her a wobbly smile, he wants to say something but it gets stuck in his throat. She shakes her head and smiles again, she understands what he wants to say. She wipes off the tears that managed to escape off his face, kissing his forehead, “Don’t let the trio see you crying or you’ll never hear the end of it.” 

A wet laugh leaves him, he shakes off his emotions. “Yea, let’s enjoy breakfast, I don’t want to leave a crybaby.” he replies.

The rest of the children, staff and Father Hyunjin trickle in shortly after. The trio spot Namjoon and Seoyeon, heading over to their table to join them, another one of the staff helping them bring their plates over. 

“Oppa, we made you something, we hope you like it.” Nari mumbles out, looking at him timidly. Beomsoo hands him a large envelope. “You don’t have to open it right now, hmm, maybe when you get to your new house okay?” Minho adds.

“Okay little ones, thank you, I’m sure I’ll love it.”

Everyone goes to the common area right after, playing different games with one another, some going outside into the yard. It’s almost 12 when Minsoo, one of the staff, goes up to Namjoon to notify him that Yoongi and Hoseok have arrived. Namjoon thanks him and goes with him to the reception area, glad to see his best friends. He greets them both and gives them quick hugs.

“Joon, how are you feeling? Are you ready to start putting your things in the car or do you need more time?” Yoongi asks.

“I’m okay, got a little mushy earlier but I’m ready. My stuff is all packed to go too.”

“Aww Joon.” Hobi goes up to him to squish his cheeks, Namjoon whines as Hobi and Yoongi laugh at him. “Let’s go get your stuff then.”

They head to his room and pick up some boxes. They’re walking down the hall, getting to the entrance to head out to Yoongi’s car when he says “We might have to make two trips, you don’t really have a lot of stuff but since three of us are riding in the car, it leaves less space for your things.”

“That won’t be necessary, we’re here to help too.” a deep voice comes out of nowhere.

Taehyung. Namjoon startles, almost dropping the box he's holding. Taehyung steps over to him quickly to take it from him. 

“Taehyung, hi, thank you again for coming to help.” 

“Of course, and sorry, didn’t mean to catch you off guard.”

“It’s okay.” Namjoon looks over to Yoongi and Hoseok, who are just curiously staring at the two new faces in front of them. “Let me introduce you to my best friends. These are Yoongi and Hoseok.”

“Nice to meet you, I’m Taehyung.”

“And I’m Jungkook.” Jungkook peeks over his brother's shoulder, shyly smiling at Yoongi and Hoseok, sparkling doe eyes then going to Namjoon. “Namjoon-ssi, we didn’t get to introduce ourselves properly last time. Heard a lot about you last time from the kids.” 

“Ahh yes, my favorite trio. Hope they didn’t drive you too crazy.” Both Namjoon and Jungkook start giggling. 

“They didn’t, they’re really cute.”

“Okay then. Do you want to come with me to get more of my stuff while these three start putting stuff away in the car?” Namjoon asks Jungkook. 

“Yea, of course.” Jungkook replies.

Taehyung follows Yoongi and Hoseok outside while Namjoon and Jungkook head back to his room. 

“This place is really nice, I can see why my Mom is attached to it.” Jungkook speaks out as they walk.

“Yea, it’s really special. Your mom has been donating for as long as I can remember, it’s very kind of her, we owe her a lot.” Namjoon gives him a soft smile. 

“Hm yea, I’m kind of mad at myself for not visiting sooner but better late than never I guess. How old you are?”

“It’s okay, you’re here now. And I’m 22, you?”

“I’m 19. Just finished up my first year of college.”

“Oh nice, first year was fun for me. And you can call me hyung.” Namjoon says as they get his two suitcases.

“I enjoyed my first year as well, it was fun for me too. And okay, hyung.” Jungkook gives him a bunny smile.

They’re heading out when they hear “GOOGIE HYUNG!” followed by the sound of running footsteps. 

“Oh goodness, here they come.” Namjoon says and both him and Jungkook start giggling again.

Minho, Nari and Beomsoo start bouncing all around Jungkook, excitedly talking to him at the same time. Namjoon tells them they’ll be back, asking them to wait for them to finish what they’re doing, the three go outside to play in the meantime after some convincing from Jungkook’s part. They meet up with Taehyung, Hoseok and Yoongi who are talking outside. Yoongi’s gaze is still curious, observing Taehyung, leaving most of the talking to Hoseok. Taehyung sees the two with the suitcases, going to his car and opening the trunk for them. They all head inside to get the last of Namjoon’s stuff, putting everything away one last time. They all come together in the courtyard, Yoongi and Hoseok catching up with some of the staff, Taehyung watching Namjoon and Jungkook spend time with the kids. Jungkook is playing tag with Minho and Beomsoo, Nari is reading a short story with Namjoon. 

Half an hour has passed. “Okay, I think it’s time I get going.” Namjoon says as he closes the book, Nari clinging to his side as he picks her up to walk towards the other two and Jungkook. He calls them over and Jungkook gives him a knowing look, walking the boys over to him. 

“Hey you guys, it’s time for me to go. We have to go get the keys to our new place and start getting settled in. I’ll come by in 2 weeks, most likely during the weekend, okay?” 

Minho goes up to him and does grabby hands, Namjoon bends down to pick him, now having 2 of the 3 clinging on to him like baby koalas.

“What about me, pick me up too please!” whines Beomsoo as he hugs one of Namjoon’s legs, Nari reaching down to him to try and lift him up. Taehyung laughs at their antics while Jungkook picks up the black haired boy and brings him close to Namjoon.

“Gonna miss you hyung,” Minho whispers to him, plopping a kiss on Namjoon’s cheek. Nari looks at Namjoon with teary eyes, she doesn’t say anything. She gives him a kiss on his other cheek, resting her head on his shoulder after. Beomsoo reaches over to grab Namjoon’s face, his small hands cupping his cheeks. “I’m happy you get to be with Yoonie hyung and Hobi hyung more now, like I’m always with Nari and Min. We’ll see you soon like you said.” Beomsoo beams at him and kisses Namjoon’s button nose. Namjoon coos and returns their affection by giving them all forehead kisses, putting them down, walking over to Seoyeon, Father Hyunjin and the rest of the staff. He says his goodbyes, going over to the rest of the kids where they dogpile him and wish him good luck. Namjoon gets up, brushes off his sweater and jeans, walking over to where the four are waiting for him.

“Are you ready to go? Not forgetting anything?” Taehyung asks.

Namjoon looks back at everyone, waves and turns back around. “Yea, I’m ready. Let’s go”.

Namjoon rides with Yoongi and Hoseok, Taehyung and Jungkook right behind them. The car ride lasts about 25 minutes in light traffic, ending when they pull into the parking garage of their new home, the 94’ duo heading out to the front office to retrieve their keys. The building is on the smaller side, 8 units total, in a more secluded area of Seoul. 

“Looks really calm here, peaceful.” Taehyung voices out.

“Yea, it’s pretty chill. I enjoy living here, the owner is really accommodating and nice.” Yoongi says.

“Oh, you live here too?” 

Yoongi nods. "For about a year now. Former neighbors upstairs moved out not too long ago and I asked the owner if she had a chance to meet with Joon and Hobi about renting it out.”

The pair comes back a couple minutes later with big grins, holding up their keys. They all start moving things upstairs to their 2 bedroom apartment, Hoseok’s parents arriving shortly after with his things.

“Okay, I think that’s it. My bed arrives tomorrow, we’ll get the rest of the stuff we need the next week or so. Thanks for the help guys, I really appreciate it.” Namjoon tells them after 2 hours of unpacking and arranging things around the apartment. “Especially you two,” he says looking at Taehyung and Jungkook, “I know we’ve only recently met but it was really nice of you to offer to help. We were thinking about ordering some food and drinks, do you guys want to stick around for a bit?”

“Yea, at least let us feed you for helping us.” Hoseok adds.

“That’d be cool, thanks, I’m actually pretty hungry now, Kook?” 

“I’m always hungry to be honest.” Jungkook answers. They all laugh at the youngest, Namjoon pulls out his phone to order the food. It arrives 40 minutes later, they all sit down on the floor around the coffee table in the living room, the TV is on but it mostly serves as background noise, the two brothers and three best friends engaged in a random conversation, getting to know each other better. 

Namjoon lets out a pleased sigh, happy to see everyone so at ease. Taehyung turns his head to look at Namjoon beside him after hearing the little content noise. 

“You look really happy.” Taehyung murmurs as he scoots over a little closer to Namjoon.

Namjoon’s looks at him, dimples deepening even more. “I am. This is really nice, I feel good.” 

“I’m glad. Are you ready for the new job?”

“I’m nervous but I’m pretty sure that’s everyone when it comes to a new job. Working in a museum will be interesting , I’m not really sure what to expect.”

“Museum?” Taehyung questions. 

“Yea, I got hired at the Seoul’s Children Museum. I’ll be doing research as well so I’m really excited.” Namjoon explains happily. 

“I love museums, you’ll have to show me around yours one day.” 

“If you don’t mind the kids, sure” Namjoon giggles out.

Namjoon is so damn adorable, what the fuck.  “I don’t mind them if I’m with you, you’re good with children.” Taehyung comments.

Namjoon blushes and looks down at his lap. Cute Taehyung thinks again. 

“I try my best, patience really is a virtue you know? Kids are just really curious and energetic.” 

“Guess I have to work on my patience then. I like kids, just have never really been around them much except the big baby that Kook is.” 

“HEY! I heard that!” Jungkook shouts from across the table. 

Taehyung lets out a deep laugh at Jungkook’s pout, further proving his point.

“Baby Kookie!” Hoseok says while pinching one of Jungkook’s cheeks, Yoongi laughing next to him, gummy smile on display.

“Get use to it Kookie, you’re the maknae of our new friend group here.” Namjoon tells him.

“Well, as long as I get fed I guess I can put up with it.” Jungkook teases back, plopping another piece of chicken into his mouth.

“This kid.” Taehyung shakes his head chuckling. 

Namjoon leans back, most of his head on the couch cushion, his right temple slightly brushing up on Taehyung’s shoulder. Taehyung realizes this and gets a little flustered, his eyes wander around the room, meeting Yoongi’s, who just slightly smirks at him.

“Taehyung.” Namjoon says softly.

“Yea?”

“Thanks again.”

“You need to stop thanking me, I’m happy to help. We’re friends now so it’s all good hyung.”

“Fine, but I still owe you ice cream because we didn’t have dessert today. I would buy you something else but I think you’re good on the material and money side of things.” Namjoon playfully jokes.

“Ah, ice cream. That sounds perfect since it’s starting to get hotter.”

“Can I get your number then please? I meant to ask for it last time but it slipped my mind.”

“Oh yea, same. I wanted to text you earlier that I was on my way and realized I never got it from you.” 

They exchange numbers and continue their laid back night. Yoongi ends up falling asleep during the movie they decided to put on, Jungkook and Hoseok completely focused on the screen in front of them. Namjoon feels himself getting tired too. He starts dozing off, cuddling closer to Taehyung in his sleepy state. His head fully on Taehyung’s shoulder now. Taehyung looks down at his face, observing his features. Cute nose, plump lips and cheeks, soft yet defined jawline...beautiful. 

And suddenly Taehyung can’t wait for their ice cream outing. 

“How’s the new church you’re working at Hyunjin?” Mina asks. Her son is joining her for dinner, enjoying his company after not seeing him as often over the past couple of years since he was working outside of Seoul. 

“It’s very nice, both the church and orphanage are really well maintained and managed. There’s something truly special about it.” Hyunjin answers.

“Glad to hear that, I’m proud of you.” She smiles at him and they continue eating.

If only you knew you had a son there, I wonder if you met him before he left...

Chapter Text

“So, Taehyung huh?” 

Namjoon and Hoseok are lounging around in their living room when the older of the two asks.

“What about Taehyung?” Namjoon questions back.

“You’ve never mentioned Taehyung before, I’m surprised you have other friends besides Yoongi hyung and -” Hoseok doesn’t get to finish his sentence as Namjoon launches a pillow at his shoulder. He laughs and Namjoon scowls at him cutely.

“Aww Joon, you know I’m kidding, I’m just curious about the guy.”

Namjoon sits on the couch next to him, “I saw him at the charity event I had mentioned but we never actually talked that day? Just a quick smile. He ended up dropping off a check at St. J’s that one of the guests wrote out but didn’t get a chance to give to us. We ended up talking for a bit, mentioned I was moving out and he offered to help. Jungkook played with the kids that day, they are both really nice.”

“So you barely met him and a conversation later he offered to help you move out? Huh…”

“Why do you make it sound weird? He’s not a bad person, I think I would have sensed something if he was sketchy.  Besides, his mom has been giving to St. J’s for a long time and Kookie is sweet.”

“I guess…” Hoseok mumbles. “And yea, I only got good vibes from them the other day too, it’s just kinda funny how he offered to help after one conversation...then again he was giving you heart eyes that day.” Hoseok finishes off, a teasing grin on his face.

Namjoon rolls his eyes. “I don’t know what you’re seeing Hobi but that’s not what happened.”

“He was though, it was cute. He was staring at you when you were sleeping. Heart eyes everywhere.”

“Ugh be quiet, we just met, there’s no way.”

“I’m just saying, it seems like the option for something else is there, maybe in the future...also you seemed very comfortable with him, like you’ve known each other for a while. ” Hoseok says, pondering.

“Well...he’s just really kind and we have similar interests. Conversation with him is easy, it’s nice. Same with Kookie, although with him it clicked a bit easier funny enough. We understood each other instantly when talking about the trio.” Namjoon softly laughs out. “Still owe them ice cream, I need to text them soon.”

“Taaaeetaaee!!”

Taehyung turns in his chair to see his best friend, Park Jimin, walking into his office.

“Hey Jimin.” Taehyung gives him a boxy smile. “What’s up?”

“Nothing much, just missed you this past week. And we have work stuff to catch up on.”

“We should go over budgets now before meeting with everyone. Then we can enjoy a nice lunch.”

“Yes, let’s do that.”

Jimin works for House Jiyeon in the finance department. They both begin go over documents, ideas and budgeting in detail for upcoming projects. They’re planning an event to present their new collection, figuring out costs and logistics. About an hour passes by when someone else enters the room.

“Hey losers, I brought lunch. You guys going over plans?” says Kim Seokjin as he walks in - Taehyung’s older cousin, who also works for House Jiyeon on the business side of things.  

“Thanks Jin hyung, this smells so good, what is it?” asks Jimin.

“Some bulgolgi and kimchi fried rice. There’s some ice tea in the green bag.”

“You’re the best, thank you” Tae smiles at him. 

“I know.” Seokjin grins. “So, what’s new?” 

“Yea, we missed you this weekend Tae.” Jimin adds on.

“On Saturday I was being lazy to be honest, and I was with Jungkook on Sunday helping out a friend.”

“Oh, what friend?” Jimin asks.

“Uh, a new friend actually. His name is Namjoon. Saw him at the small event we had for the orphanage.”

“The one Jin hyung and I couldn’t make it to because of the meeting we had with our new partners?” 

“Yea, that one. But we actually didn’t talk until we went to drop off a check the next day, he mentioned he was moving out and I offered to help.”

“I see. You’ll have to introduce us one of these days.”

Ding.

Taehyung looks at his phone to see who the text message is from. Namjoon.

Namoon: Hey Tae! Wanted to see if I could treat you and Jungkookie to some ice cream sometime soon? Still owe you two 😛

Taehyung: Hi 😄 You don’t owe us anything but I’ll never say no to ice cream 😋

Namjoon: Are you guys free Friday afternoon?

Taehyung: Works for me. You want me to ask my brother?

Namjoon: Yay! & can you give me his number please? I'd like to ask him myself 🤗

Taehyung: Sounds good, just let me know when and where.

Namjoon: I will, see you Friday ʕ·ᴥ·ʔ

Cute.

Taehyung looks up to see Seokjin and Jimin looking at him with smug looks.

“Seems like someone has the attention of Kim Taehyung, who is it now?” Seokjin teases. 

“That was actually Namjoon, he wants to hang out.” he answers.

“Oh really.” Jimin adds on to the teasing.

“Yes really, why are you guys looking at me like that?”

“Because you were smiling in a really cute way, seems like this Namjoon person has an effect on you, no?”

Taehyung stays quiet for a couple seconds. “He’s nice, I enjoy his company.”

“...and?” Jimin demeanor changes, giving his best friend a soft expression.

“I want to get to know him better, feel like we clicked right away.”

“So not someone you’re just having fun with?” Seokjn jokes.

Taehyung rolls his eyes and gives him a blank stare. “It’s not like that with him.”

“I’m happy you have someone you’re enjoying spending time with and getting to know. I think this is good for you after, well, you know…” Jimin voices out, Seokjin nodding in agreement.

“Yea...it’s refreshing. Want to see where this goes. I met some of his friends that day too, they were really nice. Maybe we can all hang out one of these days.” Taehyung looks at them, eyes hopeful and they both give him warm smiles in return, continuing on with their day. 

It’s Friday and Taehyung is getting ready to pick up Jungkook to meet Namjoon at a cafe. It’s still relatively early in the afternoon but he’s finished everything that needed to be done so he heads out to enjoy the rest of the day. He waits for Jungkook at a convenience store by Yonsei University, where he himself had graduated from a year earlier. He misses his time here but glad he was able to finish a year earlier and start his role in his mom’s company. Taehyung double majored in business and fashion design, his fascination with the sketches he would see his mom working on becoming a big part of what he wanted to study.

A knock on the passenger side window takes him out of his reminiscing. He looks over and sees Jungkook and he unlocks the door.

“Hyung!” Jungkook beams at his older brother as he put on his seatbelt.

“Hey Kook, you ready?”

“Yea, let’s go meet Joonie hyung”.

They arrive at the place and walking in they see Namjoon waving at them from one of the back tables. Jungkook skips his way over, Taehyung letting out a small chuckle behind him.

“Hey Joon hyung!” Jungkook goes up and hugs him unexpectedly, Namjoon stills for a second before hugging him back. He looks over at Taehyung, smiling, going up to him and gives him a quick side hug. They sit down and order their food, Jungkook talking animatedly about his day and the project he is working on with his best friend, Yugyeom. Namjoon has grown really fond of Jungkook, doting on him like a younger brother. Jungkook asks Namjoon what he studied and Namjoon mentions his minor in fashion design.

“Wait, you minored in fashion design?” Taehyung asks in surprise. 

“Mhm, yea” Namjoon replies as he takes a sip of his drink.

“Why didn’t you mention it when I told you I majored in it? We have more things in common than I thought…” Taehyung comments.

“Uh, I’m telling you now ?” Namjoon says, more as a question than an answer, Jungkook lets out a small giggle at his response. Taehyung looks over to his brother and rolls his eyes playfully. 

“Do you have any sketches and designs, a portfolio?” Taehyung asks.

“Yea, I do. Why, you want to copy some of my ideas?” Namjoon quips.

“Maybe…” Taehyung jokes back. “But no, seriously, you should stop by the office someday, I really want to see what you’ve come up with.” he finishes off, giving a quick smile to Namjoon. 

“Yea hyung, it could be a cool side project for you.” Jungkook adds on, waiting for Namjoon’s response.

“I...it doesn’t hurt to try something new I guess.” Namjoon responds shyly. Jungkook and Taehyung flash their signature smiles at him. 

Jungkook’s phones goes off and he answers, something has come up last minute with the project he is working on with Yugyeom and he has to leave. 

“I’m sorry I have to go, my treat next time.” Jungkook has a small pout, doe eyes on Namjoon.

“It’s okay Kook, go do what you have to do.” Namjoon says. Jungkook heads out to meet his taxi, waving goodbye as he leaves.

Namjoon and Taehyung head out a couple minutes later, walking around for a bit until they end up at a nearby park. They stop next to a small pond where there are fish and ducks. Namjoon sits near the edge to take a closer look, dimples on display, in his happy place. Taehyung sits down next to him, his body as close to Namjoon’s as possible. 

“I take it you like the outdoors.” 

“I love being outside, nature is beautiful. It’s very serene, makes me happy.” Namjoon responds softly, eyes locked on the pair of ducks in front of them. 

“Have you gotten a chance to explore Seoul Forest?”

“No, not yet.”

“We should go sometime then, make a day out of it, walk around until we can’t anymore.” 

“Hmm, deal, we’ll see if you can keep up.”

Taehyung scoffs, his funny expression sends Namjoon into a full body laugh, causing him to lean against Taehyung. Taehyung starts laughing as well, putting his hand on the small of Namjoon’s back to keep him from completely going backwards into a nearby rock. 

Namjoon quiets down and looks at Taehyung. “In all seriousness, that’d be nice, a trip to the forest sounds like a great day.”

“Yea?” Taehyung asks.

Namjoon nods softly.

“Okay, it’s a date then.” Taehyung says, completely catching Namjoon off guard.

“A what?”  Namjoon squeaks out.

“A date, if that’s okay. I like spending time with you, want to get to know you better.” 

Namjoon goes a little red, looking at Taehyung shyly and then looking away.

“Really?” Namjoon whispers, turning again to look at Taehyung, eyes searching for something. 

“Yea, really. Please?” Taehyung asks quietly, lost in the eyes searching his. 

Namjoon puts his face in his hands and leans into him, his back to Taehyung’s chest. Taehyung wraps an arm around Namjoon’s waist, the top of his head resting on the left side of Taehyung’s chin.

“I take this as a yes?” Taehyung teases, his hand lightly squeezing Namjoon’s hip. 

He hears a muffled yes since Namjoon still has hands on his face. Taehyung gently grabs Namjoon’s hands and lowers them, commenting a small cute which has Namjoon whining in embarrassment, Taehyung laughing at his antics. 

“You really caught me off guard here, I didn’t think…” Namjoon finally speaks up.

“Didn’t think what?”

“I don’t know, I just - I’m just surprised.”

Taehyung hums. “I wasn’t expecting this either but I was interested in you the moment I saw you. I was kinda just stuck staring at you to be honest.” He mumbles the last part out and his cheeks start heating up. 

Namjoon turns his head to look at him. He’s looking for something other than sincerity in Taehyung’s eyes, but nothing else is there. He leans in, puts his hand over the one hugging his waist, looks at Taehyung in the eyes one more time before leaving a soft kiss on his jaw. 

Namjoon lets out a pleased sigh, leaning back into his chest. “I was kinda stuck staring at you too.”

Taehyung smiles into his hair before he leans down to peck his cheek. Namjoon blushes again but his face twinkles with joy, interlacing his hand with Taehyung’s. They don’t say much after, enjoying the rest of their day in the park in comfortable silence.

Taehyung gets a text later that evening.

Yuri: Hey Tae...I’m back in town. Can we talk? I miss you.

Chapter Text

Taehyung walks into his office to see Jimin waiting for him, a bag from their favorite breakfast spot on the small glass table.

“Jimin!” He sings songs as he walks in.

“Hey Tae, brought us breakfast.” Jimin chirps as he starts placing the food on the table. “How was yesterday?”

“It was nice, Namjoon hyung took Kookie and I out for some food. But then he had to leave and it was just him and I.” 

“Ahh,  just you two?” a soft smirk appears on Jimin’s face.

“Yea, just us.” Taehyung clears his throat. “I asked him out yesterday...on a date.”

“Wait, what?” Jimin asks in surprise.

Taehyung shrugs it off. “I asked him to go on a date with me.”

“Do you actually want to get to know him or you just wanna fuck around? I know Jin hyung asked when we were together the other day but I’m the one asking now. Because lately it has been the latter…” Jimin comments, looking at his best friend curiously.

Taehyung sighs. “Look, I never promised anyone anything more. I’ve always been clear about what I want. But with Namjoon it’s different. You know I take my relationships seriously. And besides, I haven’t fucked around with anyone since a little before meeting him.”

“I know. I didn’t mean to make you feel bad but I’m genuinely curious, nothing wrong as long as everyone is on the same page.” Jimin says as he gently squeezes one of Taehyung’s hands. 

Taehyung nods appreciatively. “I really like spending time with him, I’m just really comfortable with him you know? He’s really cute, super sweet, we can talk about anything. I think it’s rare to find someone that you can be like that with when you first meet. Not to mention him and Kook clicked right away too.” Taehyung smiles at that. 

“So when am I finally meeting him?” 

“Uh, soon?.”

Jimin tsks. “I’ll hold you to it.”

“But something else did happen yesterday. Yuri texted me, said she’s back in town.”

Jimin swallows the food he’s chewing. “What does she want?”

“I don’t know, I haven’t texted her back. She just said she wants to talk.” Taehyung pops some rice into his mouth.

“Oh now she wants to talk. She literally left the country right after you two broke up. I don’t get her, you know I was never a big fan of hers. Only put up with her because you’re my best friend.” Jimin grumbles out the last sentence as he takes a sip of his coffee.

“I know, I’m not sure I want to talk to her any time soon. Things ended really messy with us and I’m doing well now.” 

“Then don’t. You don’t owe her anything. You wanted to clear things up but she literally just dipped. She can wait.” Jimin sasses out.

Taehyung gives him an amused smile. “Ah Jimin, what would I do without you.”

“Let’s not entertain the idea.” Jimin laughs as they finish up their meals.

~~

Namjoon is finishing setting up the museum’s newest mini-exhibit alongside other staff. The mini-exhibit lets children try on different space gear, build a model spacecraft and has an area where they can read and play with space themed books and toys. The white walls making up the exhibit are covered in planets and stars, with blue, black and purple borders. The only thing left to do was fix the reading area, which Namjoon was very much looking forward to. He crouches down to start going through he books and putting them on the shelves when he hears “Hope you haven’t eaten lunch yet.”

Taehyung.

Namjoon stills for a couple of seconds. He pushes his glasses up and turns around on his knees and looks up to see Taehyung with someone shorter and very attractive behind him.

“Tae, hi.” Namjoon says softly as he peers up to him through his glasses, dimples popping out.

“Adorable.” Jimin whispers next to Tae. Tae huffs a small laugh.

“Hope we’re not intruding, or that it’s too forward...I -  we brought you lunch, we asked the nice man at the front and he said you should be on your lunch break soon.” Taehyung says as he ruffles the hair on the back of his head, suddenly feeling shy.

“No, it’s okay. Just a little surprised.” Namjoon replies as he gets up with the help of Taehyung. “Thank you for lunch, you saved me from stepping out to buy some.” Namjoon smiles again.

“Good, I’m glad. Uh, this is my best friend, Park Jimin.” Taehyung says as he introduces his platonic soulmate.

“Hi. Kim Namjoon.” Namjoon shakes the other’s hand. 

“Ah, another Kim. Nice to finally meet you, I was wondering who caught my best friend’s eye.” Jimin teases, eyes crinkling cutely.

Namjoon turns pink. “Oh, um.” He lets out a shy laugh. “Nice to meet you too. He’s told me a lot about you.” Namjoon replies sweetly.

“Oh you’re cute.” Jimin giggles. Namjoon full on blushes and Taehyung starts giggling as well. 

The three talk for about 10 minutes before the duo start heading out to attend a meeting and let Namjoon enjoy his lunch break. But not before Taehyung asks Namjoon to come over during the weekend so he can take a look at Namjoon’s portfolio, his mind being very curious about it ever since he found out the other had studied it. 

“I’ll see you Saturday then?” Taehyung asks. 

“Yea, Saturday.” Namjoon responds.

“Good. Can’t wait to see what that cute head of yours has come up with.”

Namjoon quirks his lips timidly. “I think there’s some things you’ll like.”

“I’m sure there will be. I’ll pick you up okay?” Namjoon nods as Taehyung wraps his arms around Namjoon’s waist to give him a hug goodbye. 

“See you later Tae.” Namjoon plants a kiss on Taehyung’s cheek and walks away to enjoy his lunch. Taehyung’s mouth opens in surprise a little as Jimin chuckles, pulling Taehyung towards the exit so they can make it to their meeting on time.

~~

It’s Saturday and Taehyung is parked outside of Namjoon’s apartment waiting for him. He sends a text to let him know he’s arrived. Namjoon comes out a couple minutes later, dressed in a dark, mustard yellow t-shirt and jean overalls that are rolled up mid-calf, with black Converse completing his outfit. He waves at Taehyung before opening up the passenger side door and sliding in with his black messenger bag, a white binder peeking out of it.

“Hey.” Taehyung greets, leaning over to plant a kiss on Namjoon’s cheek, very close to his lips.

“Hi.” Namjoon greets back a little breathlessly after the kiss. 

Taehyung grabs his hand as he starts the car, keeping both their hands on Namjoon’s right thigh the whole ride to his apartment. They make conversation as they make their way through the streets of Seoul, arriving at their destination shortly after. 

“Wow, nice place.” Namjoon remarked as he stared up at the luxury building.

“Look nicer inside, c’mon.” Taehyung reaches for his hand as they walk in hand in hand, he greets the doorman as they step into one of the elevators.

“So fancy.” Namjoon out while looking around.

Taehyung chuckles. “It was a gift from my parents. I actually didn’t want it, but they were adamant about me having a place of my own. I think it was their way of nicely kicking me out.” Namjoon laughs as Taehyung leads them out of the elevator and into the hallway. 

“No, but really, I was fine staying at home a little while longer. But they wanted me to have a space of my own, although I’m still at the house half the time so I get a bit of both worlds. The apartment on the right is mine, there’s two per floor.” He explains as he punches in the code to his place to open the door. His apartment is stunning, huge windows overlooking the city, furniture and colors different shades of brown, beige and orange, all complementing each other. 

“Wow Taehyung, I love the colors.” Namjoon gasps.

“Thank you, I picked everything out myself.” He gives Namjoon a quick tour, showing him both bedrooms, bathrooms, the kitchen, dining area and the balcony. They settle down on one of the living room couches, Namjoon takes out his binder which contains a lot of his sketches and drawings.

“So what got you interested in fashion?” Taehyung asks.

“I guess it was mainly the idea of putting stuff together, as in colors and different combinations of clothes, materials, textures you know? I really enjoy the process of it, because so many possibilities exist, it’s endless. I think it’s amazing how creative our imagination and brains can be. Look, this dress design is one of my favorites, I’d like to actually make it one day.” Namjoon puts the binder in Taehyung’s lap so he can take a closer look.

“Wow, this is really pretty.” Taehyung compliments. The dress is an evening gown, it would be perfect for a gala type event. The main colors being a dark blue alongside a lighter shade with thick black straps complimenting and holding together the mid plunge neckline. Namjoon had also added dotted specks, signifying that he'd like to add some type of shiny material in those areas.

“Thank you. I looked at the night sky one day and the idea came to me instantly. The sky in all its forms and colors inspires me a lot.” The older mumbles shyly.

Taehyung looks at him fondly. “Hope it keeps inspiring you, this is a gorgeous piece. What materials were you thinking?” Taehyung asks.

“Well, I’d like to try chiffon and organza, I think they’d give it the right amount of structure and flow that I have in mind. And beads to add some texture and shine.” Namjoon answers, a thoughtful expression taking over his face. 

Taehyung nods in agreement. “I would like to see it come to life one day hyung.”

Taehyung returns the binder as he grabs one of his folders to show Namjoon one of his favorite works. It’s a business casual ensemble with an edge. A grey suit jacket over a burgundy shirt and dark orange scarf. The edgier part of it consists of ripped light wash jeans, fingerless black gloves and black combat boots. 

“Ohhh, I really like this Tae! Something about the suit jacket and ripped jeans really stands out. The combat boots and gloves really give it a unique look.  All the colors go well with each other, was this part of a collection?” Namjoon questions.

“Thanks.” He gives him a boxy smile. “And yea, it was part of last fall’s collection. Jungkook was actually the first one to try it on, and he has the original set, I wanted to see it on someone before I presented the final version to the rest of the team.” 

The pair spend the next two hours going back and forth, showing each other their favorites and what inspired them, falling into conversation as easily as the first time they met. A lot of Namjoon’s designs consist of evening gowns and casual wear. The evening gowns with rich colors and casual wear consisting of muted, earthy ones. Taehyung’s sketches were mainly business casual pieces with a twist and suits, all which played around with a variety of colors. Yet both shared a love for muted, darker tones in their own personal style. 

“I’m hungry, we should get something to eat Tae.” Namjoon says as he stretches out on the couch.

“Okay...can it count as our first date? Because I’d really like it to be our first one. I have something in mind actually.” Taehyung suggests. 

Namjoon cocks his head to the side to look at Taehyung. He scoots closer and puts one of his hands on Taehyung’s shoulders and smiles. “Okay.” 

Taehyung feels bold and grabs Namjoon by his waist so that the slightly taller of the two is straddling one of his thighs. 

“Yea?” Taehyung asks again in a low whisper.

Namjoon squirms a bit, wrapping his arms around Taehyung’s neck.

“Uh-huh.” Namjoon answers, leaning down to kiss Taehyung fully on his lips. No more shy kisses, this one is sweet and warm. Perfect is what both of them think. 

Namjoon pulls away and rests his forehead against Taehyung’s, poking the younger’s stomach. “Let’s go please, my tummy is starting to make noises.” Namjoon whines. Taehyung chuckles as they both get up, grabbing what they need before heading out. The younger drives them to one of his favorite brunch spots, it has a variety of foods from different countries. It’s something that Namjoon is more than content with, letting out a happy gasp when he realizes there are waffles on the menu, debating with himself on what other toppings to put on it. Taehyung settles on pancakes with extra strawberries, with both of them sharing a ham and spinach omelette. 

“There’s a small art gallery a couple blocks down that I want to take you to. Haven’t been there in a while, I’m curious to see what kind of work is being shown right now. Last time I went it was flower themed pottery, I bought a vase for my mom that was painted with multi colored roses.”

Namjoon bobs his head up and down. “I would love to, I haven’t been to a gallery in a while with everything going on. Loved learning but I’m so happy school is in the past, I have time to do stuff again.”

They walk to the gallery, greeting the people at the door, who hands the pair a little pamphlet on the artist, a glass artist and sculptor from Busan.

“Oh glass art!” Namjoon cheers quietly as he walks happily inside.

Taehyung follows closely behind, stopping beside Namjoon to look at the first piece. It’s that of a whale, standing at about a foot tall with multiple shades of blue making up the body of it. It’s mouth has added texture, small pieces of glass to resemble barnacles, which stands out since they are made up of vivid shades of red, green, purple and orange. The middle part of the whale’s body is attached to white and light blue coral reef that also has added texture. 

“There’s a turtle version too, look!” Namjoon says as he walks to it a couple displays down from them. “Oh, I wonder if she’s made a crab one too, it’d be so cute I bet.” Namjoon’s eyes go big, twinkling just thinking about it. 

“The shade of green is really pleasing to the eyes, like a dark emerald.” comments Taehyung.

“Yea, it’s a very rich color.” 

“Whoa, this one looks like the tesseract from MCU.” Taehyung says in awe. Namjoon giggles at his childlike demeanor. Cute. It’s a magical looking cube, refracting, reflecting and casting a multitude of colorful shadows. 

They bounce around the gallery, highly engrossed since neither of them were too familiar with glass art. There comes a point where Namjoon drags Taehyung by his hand to show him a sculpture of a bonsai tree, animatedly telling him about the piece and how he thinks the random pieces of copper wire infused in it add character. 

They keep holding hands the rest of the time.

They head back to Taehyung’s place after Namjoon says he wants to keep hanging out on “the very fluffy and soft couches” in the designer’s living room. Taehyung teaches Namjoon how to play Overwatch on his PS4, the new gamer taking a liking to playing Lucio on support and D.va on tank. It’s a while later when Namjoon finishes a match and puts down the controller to ask Taehyung something.

“Um, Tae?” he asks a little nervously, but he wants to be clear on the nature of their relationship and what both of them want.

“Yea, what’s up?”

“I want - what are we? I know we agreed on dating but I need to know if this is something serious for you. Or like, just a casual type thing. Because to be honest I’d like to see where this goes, but I don’t know if you want the same thing. I just want to be on the same page you know, I don’t want any misunderstandings. Is that -  “

Taehyung doesn’t let him finish. He pulls Namjoon fully into his lap as opposed to earlier, cradling his face to initiate a kiss. He licks at the seam of the other’s lips and Namjoon reciprocates. Taehyung grips his waist a little firmer while Namjoon wraps his left hand around Taehyung’s neck, using his right hand to steady himself, palm flat on his collarbone. They kiss slowly, tongues shy but there. Taehyung lowers his hands to squeeze at Namjoon’s hips. Although Namjoon is slightly taller and broader than him, the younger loves how well he fits in his hands, the warmth of his weight on top of him, two people fitting perfectly together.

Taehyung pulls away first and looks up at Namjoon, who is very red and a little jittery with nerves. “Namjoon, I’m serious about this. If I just wanted to mess around with you, I would have said that from the beginning. Okay?” Namjoon's eyes open a little wide as if in disbelief, giving Taehyung a small smile.

“I really had a good time today and I want many more of those days with you. I feel like we can do anything together and always enjoy it fully. So we’re in this together, yea?”

Namjoon speaks up this time. “Yea. I just didn’t want to get ahead of myself before clearing things up with you, you know? I - I just really like you.” he stammers out as he plays with the necklace Taehyung is wearing. 

“And I like you baby. We’re on the same page, I promise.”

And with that Namjoon dives down for another kiss, this time a little more heated. His tongue is the one asking for permission now and Taehyung grants it with a pleased groan. Taehyung pulls him even closer, Namjoon’s ass is now right on top of his groin. The kiss gets hungrier. Namjoon smells like vanilla and honey and Taehyung can’t get enough. Namjoon playfully bites Taehyung’s bottom lip, moaning when the younger moves his mouth to the side of his neck. Namjoon’s so sensitive there that he can’t help but grind down on his lap. Taehyung keeps mouthing at his neck, sucking and biting at his smooth skin, but not enough to mark.  Some other time he thinks to himself. Taehyung starts moving his hips upwards to meet the movements of the man above him. Taehyung moans loudly at one particularly hard grind.

“Tae, I think we should, ohhh.” Namjoon lets out a soft moan. Taehyujng is kneading his ass, guiding their movements. Namjoon can’t help but to swirl his hips a little before putting both his hands flat on Taehyung’s chest. “We should stop, these are my favorite overalls and I refuse to get them dirty like this.” He says slightly out of breath.

Taehyung lets out a deep laugh into Namjoon’s chest.

“Hey, don’t laugh at me! I’m serious, they really are my favorite ones. Just because we got carried away doesn’t mean they have to pay the price.” Namjoon whines out, pouting at Taehyung.

Taehyung laughs again, adjusting themselves so they are not as pressed up against each other.

“Yea yea, okay. But that was nice, we should do it again sometime when you’re not in your cute overalls.” 

Namjoon rolls his eyes playfully before he hides in the crook of Taehyung’s neck. Taehyung smells like soft eucalyptus and lavender, it relaxes him. He lets out a pleased sigh and gives Taehyung a small kiss on his neck as he settles comfortably into his lap and in the younger’s embrace.

“Sorry I killed our boners.” he muffles out, head resting on Taehyung’s shoulder.

Taehyung chuckles, kissing Namjoon’s hair. “It’s okay baby, everything at its own pace. It was still hot as fuck though, 10/10 would do again. I might have a thing for overalls now.”

Namjoon shakes with laughter but stays put because he is blushing furiously. “Not my poor overalls please.” He noses at Taehyung’s jaw, closing his eyes and basking in his warmth.

“Nap?” asks Taehyung as he trails his fingers up and down Namjoon’s back.

“Mhmm.”

“Okay hyung. Here or in my room?”

“Like this.” Namjoon mumbles out.

Taehyung adjusts some pillows and scoots them both over so that he’s resting comfortably on the end of the couch with Namjoon splayed on top of him.

“Am I too heavy, I can - “

Taehyung doesn’t let him finish, giving him a quick kiss on his lips. “You’re not too heavy, get comfy.” Namjoon eyes him pensively but doesn’t say anything else. He grabs the grey throw Taehyung has to cover both of them, settling himself between Taehyung’s legs. He uses the younger’s chest as a pillow, his head resting under Taehyung’s chin. Namjoon quickly falls asleep about ten minutes later, little puffs of air leaving his small mouth. Taehyung is smiling watching him sleep, thinking about how this is the most fond and comfortable he’s ever felt before falling into a deep slumber as well.

~~

I miss him. I hope my baby boy is okay. I love him so much, please lead me to him.

Jiyeon is sobbing silently inside of St. Joseph’s church. Memories of her and Jay have been haunting her this week and she came to seek refuge and answers. She’s been missing him more than ever, his 23rd birthday is coming up soon and she refuses to believe she’s been without him that long already. She hears a door open, looking down as she starts wiping away her tears with the tissues in her hand.

“Jiyeon?”

She freezes. She looks up to see the father of her missing son, the man she thought she would never see again.

“Hyunjin.”

Chapter Text

The former lovers stare at one another. Twenty plus years of not knowing about each other's whereabouts, neither know where to start.

Hyunjin speaks first. “How are you? Heard you stopped working for my mom shortly after I left.”

Jiyeon rolls her eyes. “If that’s what you want to call her firing me, sure.”

His face turns into a confusing gaze. “Why?”

Jiyeon will not reveal her biggest secret. “We couldn’t come to an agreement on something, you know how she is.”

Hyunjin shifts on his feet and acknowledges her with a nod. “Are you okay?” He asks, knowing that he had interrupted an emotional moment.

“Just want some answers. Something I’ve been seeking for a long time.” She gets up and leaves.

~~~

Yuri is sitting in Taehyung’s office when he walks in to start his day. He looks at her in surprise before pulling his expression back into something more impassive.

“You haven’t texted me back, thought I’d approach you in person. Your mom let me in.”

Taehyung rolls his eyes when he turns his back on her to settle down on his desk.

“Well I thought the no response made it pretty clear I don’t want to talk to you in any form.”

“Why?”

An empty laugh leaves Taehyung. “Really?”

“I know we left things messy -”

“We?” he interrupts giving her a side eye.

Yuri sighs. “Look, I’m sorry okay? I was just, I don’t know, in a weird place I guess.”

“And you couldn’t talk to me about it? You broke up with me and left for Europe right after like it was nothing.”

“Tae baby, I fucked up, I’m sorry.”

“What do you want Yuri? I have a busy day.”

“Just wanted to see you, it’s been a couple months. I was thinking we could go out later. I’m back for good now, I’m going to be modeling exclusively for your mom now, signed the contract earlier.”

“Congrats, really. But I’m not in the mood to hang out.”

“Okay, maybe some other time. I genuinely missed you.” She goes up to him and tries to wrap her arms around his neck. 

“Don’t.” he says as he grabs her wrists and pushes them away.

“Why?”

“We’re not together anymore. Let me continue working please.”

“I’m not done with you. Want you back.” Yuri states before she walks out.

~~~

Taehyung drowns himself in work to try and distract himself from what happened with Yuri. However, he gets increasingly irritated as the day progresses. He cannot believe Yuri thinks they can pick up where they left off, he’s so pissed. He spent weeks crying about it to Jimin and Seokjin - she had been his longest and most serious relationship. 

Jimin can feel something is up. “You want to go out and get something to eat? I think we could use some fresh air.”

Taehyung simply nods. 

As they head out, they see Jiyeon. “Taehyung, did you see Yuri today? I told her to wait for you in your office. She’s back!” she says happily, Jiyeon seems to be the only one close to Taehyung that genuinely likes Yuri.

He clenches his jaw. “Yea, we talked. Be back later, we’re going out for lunch.” He grabs his phone to send a text.

Tae: Can we see each other later? Please

Joon: Sure, but I get out late today ʕ￫ᴥ￩ʔ

Tae: Doesn’t matter, I’ll wait 

Joon: Okay, I’ll text you when I’m on my way to your place

Tae: I can pick you up and we can go to yours? 

Joon: That works, see you later Tae <3

Hours later, Taehyung is packing his things to end his day in the office. He can’t stand being in the building much longer, still irritated by the day’s events. He quickly shuts down his computer and makes his way out, but not before seeing Yuri talking to his mom. He eyes them quickly, and right before Jiyeon could say anything he gives them a nod as he walks out the building. He decides to stop by the convenience store to get some drinks and snacks, he figures he and Namjoon could order takeout if they get hungry later. As he’s parked outside the museum waiting, he thinks of how he’s going to mention this to Namjoon. Yuri’s I’m not done with you, still want you back has been ringing in his head all day. He leans his seat back, turning up the radio to help turn off his brain from unwanted thoughts. His phone rings about 30 minutes later. 

“Joon, hey.”

“Tae, where are you?”

“Go to the front, I’ll pull up okay?”

“Okay, see you in a bit.”

Namjoon hops into his car shortly after and they head to his apartment. He can sense something is off but decides against asking Taehyung, he’ll wait for him to speak first instead of prodding. They climb up the stairs holding hands, Taehyung following with snacks in hand. They haven’t said anything to each other since arriving, toeing off their shoes as they begin settling in. 

“How was your day?” Namjoon talks first.

Taehyung lets out a frustrated sigh while rubbing his temple. “It was pretty shit if I’m being honest.”

Namjoon acknowledges his reply with a hum.

“Can we go to your room please, it’s actually something I want to talk to you about.” 

“Yea, of course. I’m gonna change out of my work clothes, do you want to change too?”

“That'd be nice actually, thanks.”

He grabs something out of his closet and turns to Taehyung. “Go ahead and pick anything out while I go change.”

Taehyung goes up to the closet and sees a multitude of colors and textures. Namjoon really does love his earthy tones. He ends up going with some basic grey sweatpants and a black long sleeved shirt. Namjoon comes back in an oversized forest green shirt and navy blue cotton shorts, Taehyung goes to get dressed as well.

When Taehyung comes back, Namjoon is sitting at the end of his bed, smiling at something on his phone. He looks up when he sees Taehyung come in, patting the spot next to him. Taehyung gets on and rests his back against the headboard, patting his lap. Namjoon’s lips quirk up ever so slightly as he climbs onto his lap, arms going around his neck as his fingers play with the hair at Taehyung’s nape. Taehyung wraps his arms around Namjoon’s slim waist and rests his forehead against his chest, just taking a moment to breathe him in. Namjoon smells soft and clean. He looks up at him and gives him a chaste kiss on the lips.

He decides to just say it. “My ex is back in Seoul.”

Namjoon stills. Oh. 

Taehyung doesn’t like the way Namjoon stiffens, he starts rubbing circles on his waist and gives him another kiss on his, this time on his jaw.

“She broke up with me like it was nothing and then she comes back to try and act all normal? Fuck, I was so pissed the whole day. Can’t believe she’s thought I would get back with her just like that.” Taehyung grits out with his eyes closed as he leans back, his hold on Namjoon getting a little firmer as he tries to ground himself.

Namjoon doesn’t really know what to say, so he stays quiet but resumes playing with Taehyung’s hair in an effort to calm him down. He can feel the hurt radiating off of him.

“I just, I’ve been doing better and I feel like this has blindsided me.”

Namjoon’s heart drops a little at that. “What do you want to do? Do you still have feelings for her?”

It’s Taehyung’s turn to stiffen up. Does he? 

He sighs. “I’m hurt over how it ended. But as for her, no. I don’t.”

Namjoon nods. “Just, think about it yea? Might have been from just seeing her again but don’t ignore your feelings. I think you need to talk to her though when you feel ready, get some closure. Or something else…”

“Something else?”

Namjoon looks at him with questioning eyes. “What if you clear things out and decide to give it another try?” 

Taehyung looks at him in surprise. “What. No no no. Definitely not, things had been rocky even before the breakup. Joon, I swear, she may want me back but I don’t.”

Namjoon looks at the deep brown eyes in front of him, nothing but affection and honesty being reflected in them. He nods again and then kisses the mole on Taehyung’s nose, laying his head on his chest afterwards. 

“You still need to talk to her, when you feel ready.” Namjoon says softly.

“I know. She’ll be around all the time now, my mom gave her a contract, she’s exclusively modeling for us now.” 

“Oh. Well, try your best okay? She seems very adamant about talking to you but I hope she respects your space. The least she can do.”

Taehyung gives Namjoon a small smile and pulls him in for a short kiss. “Thank you.”

He lets out a long sigh, exhaustion catching up to him. Namjoon runs his fingers through Taehyung’s recently dyed bright blue hair, and whispers. “Of course. Just, talk to me if anything else comes up alright? Thanks for telling me and clearing things up. Now, let’s take a nap, we’ve both had a long day.”

❤

The nap turned into full on sleep. Namjoon wakes up in the early morning with Taehyung wrapped around him, feelings puffs of air on the back of his neck. He closes his eyes again as he runs his fingers gently up and down the arm wrapped around his waist. A couple minutes later he hears a low, sleepy voice. “Joon?”

Namjoon shivers slightly at the sound of it and the touch of Taehyung’s lip on his skin as he presses a soft kiss on him. He squirms a little, feeling ticklish. While doing so, he presses his body even closer to Taehyung and feels something pressing up against him. Namjoon softly gasps as Taehyung starts leaving wet kisses on the side of his neck, tongue poking out. 

Taehyung subtly starts grinding against him. “Joon. ”

Namjoon begins grinding back on Taehyung, the other hardening up even more. They work each other up for a bit when Namjoon decides to speak.

“Tae, Tae, I - “

“What do you want to do hmm? Anything you want. We don’t have to do anything, just happens sometimes you know, sorry.” A small laugh leaves Taehyung as he runs his hand over Namjoon’s stomach, his hand had snuck under his shirt moments earlier.

“No, it's okay, I want, I want - touch me please.” Namjoon says airily, still moving against him. 

Taehyung groans in response and sits up so Namjoon can lay on his back. He situates himself between his thighs, leaning down to capture Namjoon’s lips in a kiss. The kiss is heated and Taehyung resumes his grinding from above him. Namjoon meets his movements and reaches down to cup Taehyung through his sweats. “Tae, can I?” 

Taehyung nods and Namjoon crawls over to his nightstand to get the bottle of lube he keeps nearby. Taehyung cocks an eyebrow, a playful smirk on his face making Namjoon blush, avoiding eye contact as he uncaps the bottle.

He rubs it in between his fingers as he uses his legs to pull Taehyung closer in between him, surging up to pull down his sweats, freeing him. Namjoon wraps his hand around him and begins to move it up and down. Taehyung groans in pleasure, wrapping his arms around each of Namjoon’s thighs, keeping them spread as he begins to meet his strokes with movements of his own. Taehyung moans again, letting Namjoon’s thighs go as he palms him through his shorts.

“Ahhh, Tae .”

“Can I take these off?” Taehyung asks, stopping both their motions to tap Namjoon’s shorts.

Namjoon bites his bottom lip and lifts his shirt to just below his chest. ”Just enough to touch me.” 

So shy, cute.  

“Okay baby. You call the shots, alright?” He bends down to give him a quick kiss and when Taehyung sits back up he admires Namjoon’s honey skin and flat tummy, similar to his. He pulls Namjoon’s shorts just past his hips, gets some lube and begins to stroke Namjoon as well, who whimpers at the touch. Namjoon reaches up to clutch Taehyung’s bicep with one hand, nails digging in, the other clutching the sheets below him. Soft moans spill out of him as Taehyung begins to suck a bruise on his collarbone, eyes glued on Namjoon’s face. He continues to work Namjoon through his pleasure and he scoots up to kiss him. Their tongues meet and Taehyung begins to stroke him faster and firmer. Namjoon pants into his mouth, “Tae, I’m close baby .”

“Come for me, pretty.”

Namjoon grinds up and comes shortly after with a high pitched moan, spilling over his stomach and Taehyung’s hand. Taehyung kisses him all over his face and begins to stroke himself at the sight. Namjoon opens his eyes, a heavy lidded gaze on Taehyung as he reaches down and places his hand over Taehyung’s to help. He uses his free hand to grab at the front of Taehyung’s shirt to pull him down for another heated kiss. Taehyung puts his arms on the side of Namjoon’s head and Namjoon decides to use both of his hands to get him off. Taehyung muffles his moans in Namjoon’s neck, quickening his own pace. He comes with a low growl, spurting all over Namjoon’s stomach as well. Namjoon kisses the side of his head as he reaches over for some wet wipes he has nearby, cleaning both of them up. He tucks Taehyung back into his sweatpants and pulls up his own shorts, allowing Taehyung to lay down completely on top of him without worrying about either of them getting dirty. Namjoon runs his hands up and down Taehyung’s back, lightly massaging him, dropping another kiss on the crown of his head as they relax for a bit.

A while after, Taehyung sits up, squeezing Namjoon’s waist as he quickly flips them over. Namjoon yelps at the unexpected movement and wraps his arms around Taehyung’s neck to hold on, causing Taehyung to let out a deep chuckle.

“How was that? You okay?” Taehyung asks as he begins to rub Namjoon’s back, returning the gesture. 

Namjoon gives him a small mhm and hides his blushing face in Taehyung's neck. 

“Hey, don’t hide from me pretty.” 

Namjoon leans up to look at him, shy expression gracing his features. 

“That’s not how I was expecting this morning to go. It was a nice way to wake up…” 

“Yea, well you started it.” Namjoon jests.

“Hey!” Taehyung playfully pinches Namjoon’s hip. “You could have told me to stop, and you definitely weren’t complaining, Mr. I want you to touch me .” 

“Oh my god, be quiet! ” Namjoon whines out, swatting at Taehyung chest while the other starts cracking up.

Namjoon grumbles out not gonna do anything with you anymore, that was a once in a lifetime opportunity with a cute pout but ends up laughing along with Taehyung.

❤

Taehyung’s stomach rumbles, signaling his hunger. They both get out of bed and freshen up in the bathroom, going to the kitchen right after to find something to eat. When they do, Hoseok is already eating some cereal at the table, a curious glint aimed towards the pair. 

“Good morning you two. There’s some cereal and some pastries on the counter, help yourself to anything Taehyung. Nice hair color by the way, suits you.” compliments the oldest, taking another spoonful of his cereal.

“Thanks, trying something new.” Taehyung smiles. “And a pastry sounds nice.”

“What do you want to drink?” Namjoon asks.

“Just milk is fine.”

Namjoon hands him a cup of milk and serves himself some cereal. The three talk about their weeks and when Taehyung mentions his ex, Hoseok’s expression turns a little sour. He believes Taehyung is a good guy but he can’t help but be a little on edge, Namjoon is his best friend and would hate for him to be caught up in drama. Taehyung notices the change in demeanor, he understands, he’d be hesitant as well he was in Hoseok’s position. 

Hoseok is curious. “You plan on talking to her again?”

Namjoon stays quiet as he looks at Taehyung as well.

“Eventually, yea. To make things clear, again.  I’ll admit my emotions got the better of me yesterday. I just need more time but she’s going to be working with us now as one the main models so avoiding her isn’t really possible.” Taehyung sighs, stern look on his face. Hoseok nods and Namjoon reaches over to hold his hand. 

“Well, I hope she keeps her distance for now.” 

Namjoon hums. “That’s what I said too.”

Hoseok decides to change the topic. “You two have any plans for today? I was thinking of hitting up the mall if you want to join.”

Namjoon looks at Taehyung and the younger nods. “Sure, I haven’t been to any mall recently. Some retail therapy might help. Need to go home to shower and change, do you two want me to pick you up after?”

“Yea, sounds like a plan, let’s get ready Namjoon!” The three disperse and get ready for the day.

Taehyung meets them back at their place an hour and a half later, with an addition - Kim Seokjin.

“Hope you guys don’t mind Jin hyung joining us. He kinda just invited himself.”

“Wow, you’re really going to talk about your favorite hyung like that?” Seokjin sasses.

Taehyung shrugs, teasing grin on his face as Seokjin gives him a small shove, putting his hand out to introduce himself.

“Hi, I’m Seokjin, but you can call me Jin. Nice to meet you two. You must be Namjoon, I remember tall and dimpled in the description Tae gave us.” 

Namjoon laughs lightly. “Yea, I’m Namjoon. This is my best friend, Hoseok.”

“Ahhh, another Seok. Nice.”

Hoseok gives him a heart shaped smile as they shake hands and Namjoon swears he sees Seokjin’s expression turn into something a little more sweet. He smiles to himself as they head out to enjoy some shopping.

Hours pass by quickly, the four happily making their way through various stores and enjoying a big lunch. The weekend overall passes in a similar way -  Namjoon finds himself in Taehyung’s office Monday morning. Since he stayed late working two days the prior week, his boss decided to give him Monday off. 

“Alright, just needed to email something out. Let me give you a tour of the place, yea?” 

Namjoon grins. “Lead the way.”

Taehyujng explains that they lease three of the floors in the twenty story building, the floor they’re on is where the offices are for the designers and marketing team are, the floor above them consists of the finance, business and human resources staff. They go downstairs where Namjoon sees a more open floor plan that includes a small cat walk, hair and makeup stations, fitting rooms, a photography and video room and another design room.

“We work with a local manufacturer that produces almost everything - some things are sourced from other countries from time to time. But our most limited items are actually made in-house upstairs in the main design room. Some second runs of products are made by another partner manufacturer in Daegu - “

“Taehyung!”

Taehyung turns at his name being called suddenly, seeing Hana approaching them.

“Hey noona.” he greets as he hugs her.

“How are you darling? I need to talk to you about something, I want a second opinion.” Hana then turns her attention to Namjoon.

“Hi! I’m Hana, who are you?” she gives him a warm smile. Namjoon returns it and she smiles even brighter at the sight of his dimples. 

He bows. “I’m Namjoon. Taehyung is showing me around, I hope I'm not intruding.” 

“Oh no, not at all. Just curious, any friend of our precious Taehyung here is always welcome!”

“Thank you.” Namjoon bows again. Taehyung eyes one of the dress forms with some type of gown on it. “Is that the dress you were talking about noona?”

“Ah yes. That’s the one.”

“I can help you right now. Namjoon, you want to look around while I help her?”

Namjoon takes the place in. “Yea, sure.”

“I won’t keep him from you for too long, thanks for letting me steal him away for a bit, Namjoon.” Hana adds with a wink. 

He walks around and makes his way into the design room, which is currently empty. It seems like the designers are currently working on formal wear, sketches on the table and a suit jacket being pieced together. He runs his hand over the material when he hears someone walk him.

“Who are you?”

Namjoon turns around to see who it is. Standing before him is a woman around his age - petite, slim figure, pretty face, short black hair in a striking bob. She must be a model. He thinks he knows who this might be.

“Hi, I’m Namjoon. And you are?”

She gives him a weird stare as she gets closer. “Yuri, one of the models. Are you a friend of Tae’s? He keeps his circle pretty small, never seen you around.”

"I'm a relatively new friend.” He gives her a small smile.

“Oh yea, is that why you two arrived together awfully close to one another in the morning?”

Namjoon is caught off guard at her comment. “I’m not sure what you’re trying to imply?”

Yuri gives him an annoyed look. “Let me be clear then. Stay as friends, don’t try anything else.”

His expression pulls into one of shock. “That’s not up to you.”

“It is if I’m trying to get back together with him.”

“Like I said, that decision isn’t just yours. Taehyung has a say in it as well.” Namjoon counters.

Yuri clicks her tongue. “He will.”

“I won’t.” Taehyung’s deep voice interrupts their little spat, startling both of them. 

Yuri looks irritated and Namjoon just stands there, not really knowing what to do.

“I’d appreciate it if you wouldn’t talk to Namjoon like that, there’s no need for that type of attitude.”

She ignores his comment. “You two have something going on, don’t you?”

“That’s none of your business.”

“It is if we haven’t finished clearing things up, you just left last time I was trying to talk to you.” she accuses. 

Taehyung pinches the bridge of his nose. “We’ll talk when that time comes. But that doesn’t change the fact that I do not want to get back with you.”

“That’s not fair!” Yuri was starting to get really upset and Namjoon makes his way out, feeling really uncomfortable. He runs into Hana peeking her head into the room upon hearing Yuri nearly shouting.

“Yuri, please. We will talk at some point but leave Namjoon out of this.” 

“He can defend himself.” 

“I know that, I’m simply stating that you need to be respectful of everyone. You can’t go around being rude. And to be clear, yes, we’re dating - so let us be. It’s clear that both of us aren’t ready to talk yet.”

She clicks her tongue again, bitter expression overtaking her face as he walks out to see Hana showing Namjoon the dress she’s working on. Hana gives him a nod as he pulls Namjoon to the side. “Hey, I’m sorry about that.”

“It wasn’t your fault, Tae.” 

“I mean, it was because of me…?”

Namjoon nervously laughs. “Quite an introduction I had there.”

Taehyung shakes his head. “Let’s go back upstairs, I want your input on some ideas I have.” 

They head back upstairs, leaving the unfortunate encounter behind and find Jimin sitting inside Taehyung's office. “Oh hi! Nice to see you again!” 

“Hey.” he greets back. Jimin offers some of the pepero he’s snacking on, Namjoon happily taking one to satisfy his sweet tooth. 

“So what’s up?” 

“Yuri causing drama, that’s what.”

Jimin looks at Namjoon. “Ah, you met the ex yea?” Namjoon murmurs a small yea. “Such a lovely person, isn’t she?” he jokes. “Totally.” responds Namjoon, causing Jimin to giggle. 

“Tell me about it later, I wouldn't want to dampen the mood more. So what are you guys gonna do, I’m taking a break from my duties upstairs.”

“Wanted his opinion on some designs, want to join?” asks Taehyung.

“Of course.” 

The three share ideas and opinions up until lunch time and Namjoon decides to head back home to enjoy the rest of his day at his apartment and make a call. Taehyung drops him off after they pick up some food for the older, telling him he’ll text him later.  After eating his lunch in peace, Namjoon dials the number. 

“Namjoon?” 

“Hey.” Namjoon replies, eyes welling up.

“Hi honey, how are you?” He missed that tender voice.

“Good, I’ve been good.” A tear escapes and he quickly wipes it off. “I feel like so much has been happening since I left, life is fast paced lately but I’m happy. I miss you all. How are you, how’s everyone?”

“I’m happy to hear you are doing well. But make sure to take breaks, don’t overwhelm yourself. That head of yours can get wrapped around a lot of things at once, okay? And as for us, we’re doing well, although Minho has been getting sick lately. Him and the other two have been asking for you constantly.” she states with a fond laugh. “Would you like to speak to them?”

“Yes please.” 

He hears her opening the door of what sounds like the common area, various voices coming through her end of the phone now. “Minho, Nari and Beomsoo - there’s someone on the phone that would like to speak with you three.” Namjoon hears little footsteps running towards her and then a tap.

The phone call turns into a video one, she waves at him before turning the camera to the three children.

“Hey you three.” He greets with a big smile.

Nari squeals and responds first. “Namjoon oppa, hi, I miss you! I painted you something for when you come and visit!” 

“Hyung, hyung! Are you having fun at your job? Seoyeon-ssi showed us a picture you sent her, looks cool!” Minho adds on with Beomsoo going mhm mhm in agreement. 

“I miss you all too, so much. And yes, I love my new job, it’s a lot of work but I enjoy it and the people I work with are really nice. One day I’ll invite you three to come and visit yea?”

All three resemble bobbleheads with the way they nod excitedly.

Beomsoo gets closer. “When are you coming to visit hyung?”

“I was actually thinking of stopping by this weekend.” 

Beomsoo claps his little hands at this with a cheerful “Yay!”

“Minho, heard you’ve been a little sick? How are you feeling?”

Minho thinks for a bit. “I’m okay. I’m going to the doctor next week and then getting ice cream after.” The boy smiles at the mention of ice cream.

“Make sure you’re eating your veggies and drinking your water, okay?”

“Yes hyung!”

“That goes for you two as well.” Namjoon points at the others.

“Yes yes!” Nari replies.

“Okay, pass me back to Seoyeon-ssi. I’ll see you three soon okay? I love you.” 

A chorus of I love you too rings throughout his room, making him a little emotional again.

“So you’ll come this weekend then?” she asks.

“Yes. I’ll bring yummy treats.” Namjoon responds sweetly.

“Ahh, you and that sweet tooth of yours. Take care of yourself, we’ll see you in a couple days okay?”

“Bye Seoyeon-ssi, see you soon.” He waves and ends the call. 

Much to Taehyung’s disappointment, his week gets really busy with meeting deadlines and finalizing projects. He hasn’t seen Namjoon since that day in his office and the two have only been texting, a short video call being the longest interaction they’ve had. Taehyung asks him if he’d like to hang out that weekend Friday night but Namjoon let’s him know that he was planning to visit Seoyeon and the kids on Saturday. 

“We can hang out after or on Sunday?” Namjoon’s sleepy voice comes through the call.

“What time are you planning to leave from St. J’s tomorrow?”

“Hmmm, before they have dinner. So like 5ish, I was planning on getting there around 11.”

“You have a ride?” Taehyung questions.

“Mhmm yea, Yoongi hyung is taking me. I can get an Uber back.” 

“I can pick you up if you want.”

Namjoon sighs softly. “If it’s not too much of a bother, that’d be nice.”

“Of course baby. I’ll see you tomorrow then. Get some sleep.”

“Goodnight Tae, miss you…” Namjoon slurs out tiredly. Taehyung smiles to himself and ends the call. 

“Joon hyung.”

“Yes Beomsoo?” 

“Uh, can I have a treat now?” the kid asks cutely.

Namjoon chuckles into his sandwich and Beomsoo takes a sip from his apple juice waiting for an answer.

“Finish your lunch and then you can get some okay?”

Said treats were an assortment of pastries from a small bakery Hoseok and Namjoon found one day when they were roaming around their new neighborhood. He hears Nari running back to their table with the painting she had made for Namjoon. He sees a stick figure version of him on the beach with a bunch of little turtles and crabs on the sand. It’s so endearing and he gives her a hug in gratitude. Minho is happily munching on his slices of cucumbers beside him, one of his small hands unconsciously clutching the bottom of Namjoon’s cardigan. He misses this, the little moments with them. 

Once they finish their meals, he lets them grab whatever baked good they want and calls everyone else over so that they could get some too. It’s a nice day outside so they spend it playing hide and seek and chasing each other around. It’s around 4:30 when he sees Nari starting to doze off on the bench they’re taking a break on.

I think it’s nap time for these three. He picks up the tired girl and asks the other two if they’re tired as well. They both say yes and he leads them to the room they share, letting Seoyeon know on their way. His phone pings with a notification as he finishes putting Nari down in her bed. 

Tae: Hey, I got here a little early. Take your time, I’ll be waiting outside. 

Joon: Okay <3

He whispers goodbye to all three of them and gives them each a kiss on the forehead, letting them know that he’ll visit again sometime soon before he walks out. He goes up to Seoyeon and says his goodbyes, waving to the rest of the kids and staff. 

He sees Taehyung’s car and makes his way to the passenger door, tapping the window before getting in. 

“Hey.” greets Taehyung first.

“Hi.”

Taehyung leans over and gently grabs Namjoon’s chin to kiss him, who sighs contently into it. He pulls back, running his thumb over Namjoon’s cheek. 

“Missed you.” whispers Namjoon.

Taehyung kisses his nose. “Me too. What do you wanna do?”

“Just want to hang out with you. But I need to shower first, those kids had me sweating.” 

“Your place then. Jungkook dropped off some food that my mom made earlier, brought it with me just in case, figured you’d be hungry.” 

“That’s sweet, thank you. I am starving so good call.” Taehyung gives him another sweet peck, putting on their seat belts to head back to Namjoon’s apartment. When they get there, it’s empty, Hoseok had texted Namjoon that he’s with Yoongi working on a side project. Namjoon takes a quick shower while Taehyung heats up their dinner, making sure to keep the surprise gift he brought hidden. They eat rather quickly, easily devouring the japchae and rice. As they’re cleaning up, Taehyung starts, “I have something for you.”

Namjoon gives him a curious look, drying his hands from washing their dishes. “Oh yea?”

“Mhmm.”

“What is it?”

“You’ll see.” Taehyung originally planned to give it to him on his birthday but he changed his mind, opting for it to mark another special occasion. 

“Okay, let’s go to my room, I want to cuddle.”

Taehyung chuckles and follows Namjoon, getting comfortable as they lay down side by side. He reveals the wooden box that was hidden behind him and hands it over. Namjoon eyes him curiously again as he opens it. He gasps when he pulls out a small glass figurine. It’s one of a crab, swirls of oranges and reds making up most of it, with green and blue accents by it’s claws. It’s not super detailed but Namjoon finds the simplicity of it beautiful. He sees a card signifying it’s an original piece and the name and contact information of the artist. It’s the same person who’s gallery showing they went to, the glass artist and sculptor from Busan.

“Tae.” Namjoon looks at him with the most fondest of gazes.

“I emailed her the day after we went to the gallery and commissioned her for this little piece.”

“It’s so pretty and small, I love it. ” He runs his fingers over it, dimples popping out signifying just how much he really does love it. He then hops off his bed to retrieve Nari’s painting from his bag. “Looks like you and Nari were in agreement today.” Namjoon points at all the little crabs. 

“That’s really cute, think it’s cuter than my gift if we’re being honest.” he chortles.

“I think so too.” Namjoon quips.

Namjoon thanks him again by giving him a sweet kiss. Taehyung pulls him onto his lap. “Joon?”

“Yea?”

“Be mine.”

“Are you asking us to be official Kim Taehyung? You buttering me up with the gift?” he teases, pink dusting his cheeks. 

“Yea, I am.” Taehyung’s thumbs rub at Namjoon’s waist. “And maybe, it helped didn’t it?” 

Namjoon let’s out an airy, happy noise. “Yea, let’s be official then.”

Taehyung gives him a beautiful boxy smile, both of them giggling into each other's mouths as they kiss.  

~~~

Mina sets down the note she was given. So my grandson is parading around with Kim Taehyung?

She hates how Jiyeon is still a presence in her life in some form after all these years.

I guess it’s time to set the plan in motion.

Chapter Text

“Hyung, here’s your coffee!” Jungkook struts over to Namjoon, who is getting fitted at the moment, placing it on the table nearby.

“Thanks Kook.”

About a week ago, Jungkook and Taehyung asked Namjoon to come and model for House Jiyeon’s newest collection - they were in need of a fresh face and believed Namjoon was a perfect fit. The conversation was brought up at at Namjoon and Hoseok’s apartment, hangouts at their place becoming a regular thing, now with the addition of Jimin and Seokjin. By the end of the night, they had not only managed to convince Namjoon to model, but also include Yoongi  as a photographer. Jungkook mentioned that they could also use an extra pair of eyes behind the lens, turning to Yoongi to tell him he should take part in the shoot too. He pointed Yoongi's background in photography and the fact that him and Namjoon worked well together for various projects Yoongi had back in college. Yoongi was not expecting the sudden question and became extremely flustered when the attention turned to him. He kept waving everyone off until both Namjoon and Jungkook teamed up on him with pleading eyes. So unfair. Yoongi groaned and gave in, Hoseok’s loud laughter and claps from everyone indicating their success.

The result of that day being Hana currently trying to find earrings that will pair nicely with the loose shirt Namjoon has on while the hair stylist and makeup artist finish up. Yuri and six other models are also getting styled, Hana making sure to put Yuri and Namjoon as far as away from each other as possible to avoid a sequel of what happened last time. Taehyung is nearby, looking at Namjoon with a proud but heavy gaze. Taehyung can’t keep his eyes off the way the shirt is hanging off his shoulders and tapers down to accentuate his narrow waist, Namjoon looks amazing.

As he’s in the middle of ogling his boyfriend, he hears his mom talking to someone. Jiyeon's presence grabs everyone’s attention and they all greet her. Namjoon sends her a small grin and notices the man next to her. He seems to be around Namjoon’s age, hair styled back effortlessly, handsome with defined features with dark yet kind eyes.  

Jiyeon steps closer and begins to talk. “Hi everyone! I’d like to introduce a new member of the team, this is Jackson. As you all know, we’re always looking for photographers that bring a unique vision to our photoshoots. We look forward to seeing his direction for this project and future ones.” 

Jackson bows and greets everyone with a friendly wave, Jungkook and Yoongi go up to him as both will be supporting him in the shoot. They bring over the vision board Jiyeon, Hana, Taehyung and the rest of the design team had created and help him set up. 

Once they do, the first four models, including Yuri, are photographed by Jackson and Jungkook. The last four including Namjoon are captured by Jackson and Yoongi. Yoongi takes most of the pictures of Namjoon, given their friendship and the fact that Namjoon is a little nervous. Jackson wants him to be as comfortable as possible and doesn't mind handing the job over to Yoongi to make sure of that. While this is going on, Jungkook notices that Jackson is a little more invested in Namjoon compared to the other models. He makes Namjoon laugh at one point, his easy going personality making this experience more enjoyable for both Namjoon and Yoongi. Jungkook notices the hard stares Taehyung is sending Jackson, he stifles a giggle at his brother’s lowkey jealous attitude.

The shoot is a success, Yoongi gets his first photography credits in the fashion world and Namjoon is one of the faces included in the upcoming website, press and social media releases. 

As Namjoon is munching on the lunch provided, he can’t help but look at Jungkook and Yoongi. They are sitting very close together looking over the pictures on one of the monitors and sees that every now and then, Jungkook’s Bambi eyes look at Yoongi instead of the photos in front of them, a certain softness to them. He finds it cute.

The following evening Taehyung surprises Namjoon yet again. They’re laying down on Taehyung’s living room couch listening to music when he pulls him close to kissing Namjoon’s cheek, handing him an envelope.

“Happy Birthday baby.” Taehyung whispers in his ear. 

Namjoon squints at the envelope before grinning. “Thank you. But you know you didn’t have to get me anything, right? I’m more than happy just spending my day with you and the rest of the guys. You know, I always find my birthday funny because I don’t even know when my actual birthday is. Seoyeon-ssi said she closed her eyes, made a circle in the air three times and wherever her finger landed in September that would be it, for official purposes anyways.” Namjoon giggles.

Taehyung snorts, but is endeared by the way Namjoon looks at certain situations. “I like getting you stuff. And we talked about this, this is why it’s your birthday month, which to be honest is way better.”

Namjoon giggles again as he carefully opens the envelope. He goes oh in surprise and turns to look at Taehyung with large eyes. 

It’s a weekend trip to Busan at one of the beach hotels.

“Really?!” 

Taehyung drops another kiss on his cheek. “You said you’ve never been and you’d love to go to the beach there sometime so I figured we could take the short trip together. The guys are all in. And I’m sure the crabs there would love to meet you.” he teases.

“Tae.” Namjoon’s eyes are tearing up. “I love crabs.”

Taehyung chuckles deeply, but continues, “You deserve a little getaway, you’ve been working super hard lately.”

Namjoon sucks in a short breath and some tears escape, Taehyung holds him tighter.

“Jungkook, be careful!” Taehyung yells, shaking his head when he continues to hear Jungkook’s laugh, Yoongi chuckles next to him. They all took Friday off from their respective jobs and are instead enjoying it in Busan to begin celebrating Namjoon.

His little brother is currently going a little too deep in the Busan waters for his liking, Namjoon and Jimin right behind them. Hoseok and Seokjin are chilling at the shore while Taehyung and Yoongi are comfortably sitting in the luxury tent that comes with their trip package, waiting for their food to arrive. Namjoon starts splashing water at Jungkook while Jimin jumps on the youngest’s back. 

They eventually listen when Hoseok and Seokjin start shouting at them to come back, Hoseok pinching Namjoon’s hip for not listening to him earlier. “Yah, you scared me when you went under!”

“Ow, I’m sorry Hobi! But you know I know how to swim!” Namjoon whines.

Hoseok gives him a glare before grabbing his hand so they can finally go eat, muttering a don't do it again because I don't know how to swim.

Their meal consists mainly of japchae, jajangmyeon, rice and grilled short ribs. They eat until their nice and full, the birthday boy snuggled comfortably between Hoseok and Jungkook on the bed inside the tent after stuffing their face, the rest had gone up to shower and take naps. They’re enjoying the sounds of the waves and the warm weather when Jungkook speaks. 

“Hyungs…” 

“Yea bun?” replies Namjoon. Hoseok hooks his chin over the taller’s shoulder so that both are looking at the youngest. 

“Ummm...ugh. I don’t know how to bring this up.” he whines, huffing afterwards.

Namjoon thinks he knows what it’s about. “Is this about Yoongi?”

Jungkook squeaks, Bambi eyes doubling in size before hiding his face in his hands.

“We’ll take that as a yes.” Namjoon and Hoseok both giggle.

Jungkook whines again before taking a deep breath. “It’s just that, um well, we’ve been spending more time together. Mainly when all of us hang out but now that we started working on the new collection, it’s been just us two. And I, well, you know…” he says, avoiding eye contact as he wrings his hands together.

“You’re starting to feel something more for him?” Hoseok gently asks.

“Mhm.” Jungkook affirms. “He’s really cool, his guard is down now that he knows me better and it’s nice. I like him.” he mumbles out shyly.

Namjoon and Hoseok both coo at him, Hoseok reaches over to ruffle his hair and call him cute.

“But I’m scared.” Jungkook continues. “Something similar happened but that person told me he only sees me as a kid when I confessed. He’s only two years older than me. Yoongi hyung is four years older, he probably only sees me as a kid too. Not that I would tell him anything right now, I’m enjoying getting to know him better but I know eventually I’m going to want to say something but…” Jungkook sighs, he's frowning now. “I know I’m young but I’m not a child, I just, it’s frustrating. And to make things worse, the feelings for that first person resurfaced after today.”

“Today? Wait - who?” Namjoon questions, surprised.

“Jimin, it’s Jimin.” 

“Wow…” Hoseok says in awe.

“I’m a mess, this is so confusing…” Jungkook huffs again and tugs on his hair.

“Hey, no, stop that. You can’t help how you feel, it’s okay. Does it suck being confused and feel a little stuck? Yea, but it’s okay. I think you just need to really take some time to figure out what you really want, like do you like them as a crush or genuinely like them? Spend more time with them. I’m guessing after you confessed to Jimin, you two strayed apart a bit?”

Jungkook nods with watery eyes. “It felt like old times today, made me so happy.” 

Hoseok grabs his hands and squeezes it. “You know, all of us here are navigating new feelings. I mean, Namjoon has your brother whipped but it’s all still very new to him too. Did you know that Taehyung is his first relationship?” Hoseok teases as Namjoon gives Jungkook a shy smile.

“Really Namjoon hyung?” 

“Yea, I was always super focused on school. Had minor flings in college but nothing serious like it is with your brother.” he answers quietly as Hoseok playfully nuzzles into Namjoon’s hair.

“Also, Jin hyung asked me out on a date the other day.” Hoseok adds.

Now both Namjoon and Jungkook’s eyes have doubled in size. Namjoon turns over to face Hoseok and it's Jungkook’s turn to hook his chin over Namjoon's shoulder, they both look at him, waiting for further information.

Hoseok sheepishly smiles. “That man just goes for it. He’s intimidating but he’s sweet. Never met anyone like him. Like, he’s really confident but can be really reserved too?” 

Jungkook giggles. “Yea, Jin hyung is something else. He’s the best.”

They all laugh. “We really are diving into new experiences.” Namjoon ponders.

“Yep.” quips Jungkook.

“Take your time Kook. You’ll figure it out. We’re here for you okay? Don’t rush things, do it at your own pace.” 

Jungkook gives them a toothy smile, his nose scrunching. “Okay hyungs, thank you.”

Namjoon exhales lightly. “Let’s take a nap now.”

When everyone is recharged, they decide to go to a noraebang bar, friendly banter and off key singing making up the night. Saturday consists of a day hike with beautiful views and dinner at one of the beachside restaurants. The spend all of Sunday back at the beach. The bond between the seven of them feels stronger, they’re re-energized for life in Seoul when they head back Sunday evening.

The next two months pass by just as quick. Namjoon has been working alongside his boss and coworkers on a new research project, he’s been ecstatic learning more about gravitational waves produced by black holes. Taehyung loved how passionate and excited Namjoon was when explaining to him what they’re working on. He could tell that his heart is really in what he sets his mind to. But that meant that Namjoon found himself even busier than he already was, so did Taehyung, so they didn’t get to spend as much time together. Taehyung was getting ready for a fashion event Vogue was hosting in December as well as continuing to put the final touches on their newest collection.

Namjoon is in his apartment one Saturday morning in what is now mid-November when he’s hit with how much he’s missing Taehyung, and it’s a lot. He’s realizing how little time they’ve spent together lately and he’s feeling extra needy now. So he calls Taehyung.

“Baby?” Taehyung’s deep, raspy morning voice gives Namjoon goosebumps.

“I miss you.” Namjoon says softly.

“Yea, well, I always miss you.” Taehyung murmurs and Namjoon smiles.

“Are you busy today?”

“No, you?”

“No, not busy either. I want to see you, can I go over?”

“You read my mind. Want me to pick you up?” Namjoon can hear some shuffling on the other side and what sounds like Taehyung’s keys.

“No no no, I’ll meet you at your place. I’ll see you in like an hour okay?” reassures Namjoon.

“I’ll get us some breakfast then. Coffee?” 

“Yes please.”

“Okay baby, I’ll see you in a bit.”

Namjoon hurries to take a shower and get ready, stopping by the convenience store to get some of Taehyung’s favorite snacks. He calls an Uber right after and heads over.

Taehyung hears his front door open as he’s taking out breakfast from the takeout bag. He hears shoes being taken off, Namjoon popping into the kitchen right after with a bag in his hand, lifting it up slightly as he greets him with a small hey.

Taehyung’s breath catches as he looks at him. Namjoon’s now light brown hair is slightly curled, he’s wearing tight light wash jeans and a loose long sleeved emerald green shirt - he's gorgeous. 

Namjoon cocks his head to the side, seemingly confused at why Taehyung is just standing there.

Taehyung finally snaps out of it. “Hi.” He pulls Namjoon into a tight embrace. Namjoon bumps his nose with his and goes in for a kiss. Given that they hadn’t really been around each other, it gets heated real quick. 

“Missed you.” Namjoon says in between kisses, breath hot on Taehyung’s lips.

Taehyung responds by pinning him against the kitchen counter where the breakfast and snacks have been forgotten, hands going under his shirt to grip his hips. Namjoon shudders slightly, breaking the kiss to nip at Taehyung’s jaw and neck. 

“Baby.” Taehyung groans. “Did you really miss me this much?” he teases as he slides one of his hands into the back pocket of Namjoon’s jeans to give his ass a soft squeeze.

“Of course I did.” 

“Me too.”

Namjoon just hums questioningly, a small smirk on his face as he purposely avoids eye contact. Taehyung backs off to turn Namjoon around so that his back is now pressed against his front.

“You don’t believe me?” Taehyung asks in a playful tone as he presses his hips as close as possible to Namjoon’s ass, leaving no question as to how affected he is. “What about now?”

Namjoon grips the edge of the counter as his boyfriend hugs him from behind, kissing his nape. He can’t help it when a little gasp escapes. Namjoon turns himself around, licking into Taehyung’s mouth and then pulling away to look at him.

“Want you.” 

“You have me.” Taehyung states softly, fingers running through the others curls.

“Want you...in the bedroom. If you want.” A blush spreads over Namjoon’s cheeks, shy eyes peering at Taehyung. 

Taehyung kisses him, mumbling against his lips, “Of course I want to. I always want you. In whatever way.”

❤

Namjoon resumes the kiss and Taehyung’s hands travel back down to cup his ass, Namjoon wastes no time in grabbing his hand and leading them to Taehyung's bedroom. They both tumble down on the sheets, Namjoon giggling at Taehyung’s oof. He tugs at Taehyung’s shirt, signaling for him to take it off, so he leans up to do so. Namjoon  takes his off too and Taehyung leans back down to playfully nip at Namjoon’s bottom lip.

“What do you want to do?”

“Want you.”

“Fuck, okay.”

Taehyung takes off his sweats as Namjoon unbuttons his jeans and then hooks his thumbs inside of them and his boxer briefs and starts wriggling out of them.

“Babe, help please.” Namjoon huffs, a little frustrated.

Taehyung chuckles, “It’s the ass and the thighs baby.”

Namjoon groans in slight embarrassment and lifts his hips so that Taehyung can do as he was asked. Namjoon is now completely bare and Taehyung’s body thrums with heat as his eyes rake down his boyfriend’s honey toned body. Long legs, narrow waist and ample chest, and just overall thick - Namjoon is beautiful. Taehyung finally chucks off his boxers and Namjoon is staring him down as well, eyes taking in Taehyung’s lean tan body. Taehyung is a vision. 

Taehyung has to ask one more time. “Joon, you sure?”

Namjoon rolls his eyes playfully. “Yes, get in me. And don’t even think about saying the v word, virginity is a social construct. I’m not losing anything here, if anything I’m gaining that.” Namjoon points at Taehyung’s dick. “We’ve had sex before, just not like this. Did you forget about Busan and the times before? So hurry up, I’m horny.” insists Namjoon with a pout, garnering a boisterous laugh from Taehyung.

“You’re unbelievable.” Taehyung is shaking with laughter.

Namjoon levels him with a stare, pouting harder.

“Okay okay, I’m sorry, you’re right. Screw social constructs. I just need to make you’re alright.”

Namjoon acknowledges that with a nod and then sighs happily as he makes himself comfortable. Taehyung grabs the bottle of lube and a condom from his nightstand. Once it’s warm on his fingers, he slowly starts opening Namjoon up, making sure there’s no discomfort. Little moans start spilling out of him, one hand clutching the pillow underneath his head, the other resting on his stomach. Once Taehyung has worked in three fingers and Namjoon is meeting him with motions of his own, he quickly rips the packet and slides on the condom. He leaves a sweet peck on Namjoon’s lips as he starts pushing in, Namjoon feels pressure but there’s no pain. He spreads his legs wider so Taehyung can fully sheath himself inside, pausing for a moment to wrap Namjoon’s legs around his waist as they both get used to the feeling.

Namjoon resumes his movements from earlier, Taehyung keeping still for the time being, letting Namjoon take control and watching how he’s giving into the moment. He’s moaning and makes grabby hands, “Tae, gimme kiss.”

He obliges and meets Namjoon in a passionate clash of lips, moaning into each other's mouths. Namjoon has one hand in Taehyung’s vibrant blue hair and the other on his shoulder. The younger starts thrusting into Namjoon, steady rhythm building. Namjoon feels intoxicated, he didn’t know it would feel this good. Taehyung is panting in his ear and it’s driving him crazy, he can’t help but tug a little at Taehyung’s hair to get more noises out of him.

“Fuck. Joon, shit.” Taehyung grunts into his chest, starting to suck marks there.

Namjoon whines, followed by short gasps. “Feels - ohhh. Tae, oh my god.” 

Taehyung starts moving a little faster, left hand on the small of Namjoon’s back to lift him slightly, heightening the pleasure they feel pooling in their abdomens.

“Perfect, so perfect.” husks out Taehyung, groaning loudly when Namjoon starts sucking a bruise on the side of his neck, occasionally biting down lightly, a spark of possessiveness from Namjoon that makes Taehyung throb. He slips a hand in between them to pump Namjoon’s length, causing him to cry out at the feeling. He scans Namjoon’s face, nothing but passion painted over it, the curls in his hair disheveled. Namjoon grabs Taehyung’s ass to make him go deeper. Taehyung sits up and begins to slam into him to bring him over the edge. Their skin is covered in a thin layer of sweat, bodies flushed red from all the physical exertion taking place. 

“Almost there.” Namjoon inhales sharply as he’s brought even closer to an orgasm. 

“Come on baby.” Taehyung grabs both his legs and hooks both of them over his right shoulder, the position allowing him to hit Namjoon’s sweet spot head on.

“Oh fuck. Tae, Tae, babe, I need to - ahhh.” Namjoon babbles out, heavy lidded gazes on each other.

Taehyung pounds into him a couple more times before Namjoon’s body goes taut and a piercing moan rips out of him, clenching down on Taehyung. Taehyung whimpers and quivers at the tightness, weakly thrusting into Namjoon as he too comes with a warbled fuck, knees giving out as he slumps over. They're both breathing shakily, bodies recovering from their heated session. Taehyung slowly pulls out, Namjoon is still quivering slightly as the remnants of his orgasm leave his body. Taehyung tosses the condom into the trash bin nearby, grabbing his shirt to clean both of them up, putting it in the hamper before collapsing down next to Namjoon. He pulls him close and covers them with one of his bedsheets. 

“Should have done that with you sooner.” Namjoon slurs, smacking his lips.

Taehyung snickers, “It happened when it was supposed to happen.”

“Sleep.” Namjoon mumbles.

“Let’s get some rest then sleepyhead.” Taehyung kisses his forehead and they both fall into a peaceful slumber.

❤

Taehyung stirs awake to noises coming from the kitchen. He checks his phone, two hours have passed since they fell asleep. He grabs his sweatpants off the floor and makes his way out to the kitchen. Namjoon is happily munching on some of the food he ordered earlier, hair damp, wearing nothing but an oversized white shirt and black boxer briefs. 

“Joon.” Taehyung rubs his eyes.

Namjoon looks up at him and walks over, kissing him sweetly. “You want breakfast? I was going to wake you up but decided against it, you looked peaceful. So instead I showered, stole some of your clothes and helped myself to some food. I’m surprised my stomach growling didn’t wake you up.” he laughs softly.

“Not loud enough.” Taehyung pokes his stomach.  

The two spend the rest of the day in complete bliss.

Another month passes and the couple find themselves at a special event Vogue is hosting in Seoul. Namjoon is officially making his debut on the catwalk, having been practicing since he got the invitation from Hana. He has grown fond of the older women, she quickly took him under her wing and has given him nothing but sage advice. Although, it became clear to him fast that Yuri was Jiyeon’s favorite. Namjoon understood, they have history together but he wishes that she would also give some input the way Hana does.

Because of the favoritism, Yuri’s arrogance and cockiness skyrocketed, only acting sweet when Hana and Jiyeon were around. Namjoon and the other models stuck together and ignored her for the most part, not giving into her petty actions and words. He has gotten especially close to one of the models, Miyeon, who is only a year younger than him, perfectly straight medium length black hair, delicate features and sweet personality.

As he’s finishing getting styled, Yuri walks by and knocks over his cup that is on the makeup station above his legs. Luckily, Namjoon moves quick enough to avoid getting anything on his clothes. 

“What is your problem?!” he hisses at her. He can’t believe she is so fucking childish. 

She just sneers at him and keeps walking, until she runs into an upset Hana who has seen the whole thing. 

Finally someone else sees what’s going.

“Care to explain?” Hana asks in a tone Namjoon has never heard before.

Yuri sputters in surprise, and says it was an accident.

“Well, let that be the last time. Namjoon, if anything similar happens again, please let me know so we can deal with it properly. Next time, I will tell Jiyeon. Whatever you’re angry or upset at, this is not the way to deal with it.” remarks Hana, double checking to see if the iced tea got on Namjoon’s clothing. 

Yuri sends an annoyed glare their way and makes her way to the other side of the room while they wait.

“You okay?” Hana asks once she’s left.

“Yea.  Hopefully it is the last time she tries anything like that.”

“She’s still hung up over Tae huh? Between you and me, never liked her for him. Taehyung put more into the relationship that she ever did.”

Namjoon bites the inside of his cheek, frowning at the comment.

“I’m glad he has you now though.” she gives him a knowing smile.

Namjoon eyebrows pop up, “I - “

She laughs quietly, “I won’t say anything, don’t worry. Just be more careful when you’re in his office. You two are cute but I don’t want to see you guys sucking each other's faces again.” winking playfully as she clasps a bracelet on his wrist.

“Oh my god, please tell me you didn’t.” Namjoon is drowning in embarrassment.

She laughs a little louder this time, “I did, now let’s go. All of you will be going up after the first set of models.”

Ten brands and fashion houses total got invited, and just like Hana said, all House Jiyeon models went second. Namjoon and Yuri went last given that they were wearing the main pieces of the new collection. He was nervous at first but it quickly turned into an exhilarating feeling, he felt unstoppable once he stepped on the brightly lit runway, constant camera flashes going off as he did. Electronic music thrums throughout the venue and he catches a glimpse of Hoseok and Yoongi clapping in one of the rows towards the back. Right next to them is Taehyung, his smoldering gaze locked on Namjoon. For a moment it feels like the first time they laid eyes on each other.

While this show was one of the smaller ones, it was still a huge success. The media knew about Yuri, a seasoned model, and some of the other models since they had contracts with multiple brands, but Miyeon and Namjoon were newbies. Fresh faces caught their interest.

Just as Jiyeon is walking back to congratulate her models and the staff, she runs into someone she hasn’t seen in over twenty years. The last person she ever wants to see.

Kim Mina.

Mina has a wicked grin on her face as she looks at Jiyeon.

“What are you doing here?” Jiyeon asks in disbelief. 

Mina grin stretches as she steps a little closer. “I recently became one of the biggest investors for VCO. You know, where none other than a certain Italian designer decided to sign an exclusive contract. It’s too bad he didn’t choose you, better luck next time.”

Jiyeon is taken aback. About two months ago, they made a pitch to the Italian designer in hopes of having them join House Jiyeon on a short contract, which would have allowed them to not only produce a stunning new collection but also become known outside of South Korea and Japan. Things were going well until they suddenly backed out - it’s all making sense now.

“You...are you ever going to leave me alone? It’s been years, I have nothing to do with you anymore, you made sure of that.” Jiyeon’s blood is boiling.

Mina chuckles mockingly, “Eventually. Don’t blame me for your misfortunes though, you should have been and should be more careful.” The older woman walks away at that, leaving a confused Jiyeon.

Should've been more careful? Be more careful? What does that mean? 

A cold feeling runs through her body. Mina words often have a double meaning. She shakes it off for the time being, putting on a front to cover what she’s truly feeling. As she makes her way throguh the venue, she sees Yuri and Taehyung exchanging words by the bar. Taehyung says something and walks away with a drink in hand, Jiyeon speeding up to catch up to him. When she does, she asks him “Are you two okay now?”

Taehyung takes a sip of his drink. “No. Just telling her to keep her distance.”

“Tae, you should just talk to her. Did you two even try to work things out in the first place? You two are meant to be.”

Taehyung pinches the bridge of his nose. “No, we’re not. Can you drop it, please? Any chance of that ever happening ended when she started pushing me to the side and then left without an explanation. I’m not going to talk to you about this anymore.” he says exasperated.

“Honey, it’s just that - “

Taehyung cuts her off. “I’m with someone already. Please respect that.” 

When he looks away from Jiyeon, he sees Namjoon staring at them, he must’ve heard everything. Namjoon sends him a sad smile and waves, mouthing I’ll see you later before turning around and leaving. 

“Goodnight.” Taehyung sighs tiredly as he walks away and Jiyeon is stunned for the second time that night. 

Hoseok, Yoongi and Namjoon make their way home shortly after, his best friends still hyped from the show and telling Namjoon how proud they are of him. Namjoon loves them so much, they’re his biggest cheerleaders. They’re a couple minutes away from their apartments when he gets a text from Taehyung.

Tae 😘: You almost home?

Joon 💚: Yea

Tae 😘: Can I go over? 

Joon 💚: Sure

Tae 😘: Are you mad at me?

Joon 💚: No, just, idk. Combination of things I guess.

Tae 😘: Hm, okay. See you soon.

Joon 💚: bring chocolate please 😋

Tae 😘: An emoji, finally, I was getting worried. and okay!

Joon 💚: you’re so dramatic 🙄 I’ll be waiting 😙

Taehyung chuckles and makes his way to the apartment after getting what he needed. It’s pretty late already, almost midnight when he gets to Namjoon’s apartment. Both of them quietly make their way to his room, Yoongi and Hoseok had passed out quickly on the couch watching a show.

They make themselves comfy, Namjoon speaks first as he nibbles on some chocolate. 

“Your mom is really fond of Yuri huh?”

“Unfortunately…”

“She’s super stuck on seeing you two together.” Namjoon furrows his brows slightly, thinking.

“Joon, come here.” Taehyung pulls him into his lap, thumb brushing his cheek. “That’s her problem.”

“But what about when we tell her and your dad about us. I know we’re waiting for now but I just, idk, what if she doesn’t like me?” he comments with a frown.

“We don’t even know how she’s gonna react. And if for some reason she doesn’t, which it's impossible not to like you, that’s her issue. Besides, you met my dad today, he likes you. So your one for two if worst comes to worst.” Taehyung says jokingly in an attempt to cheer Namjoon up.

“Yea, I guess. I like your dad, he’s funny. He’s different from what I imagined, but even more handsome in person.” Namjoon says, feeling lighter now that he’s let the issue of tonight go.

“I’m more handsome.”

“Ehhh.”

Taehyung tickles him in retaliation and Namjoon squeals, "I’m kidding!" 

“By the way, you did amazing today. You were stunning on the catwalk, so proud of you.” 

“Thank you. It was nerve wrecking but then I got like a rush of adrenaline and just did my best. I’m happy.” Namjoon beams, dimples out in full force. Namjoon reaches over for his phone. It’s 12:30am, December 30th.

Taehyung’s birthday.

“Need to get something from my closet.” he tells Taehyung as he hops off his bed.

He pulls out a wrapped gift from the top of his closet and makes his way back to Taehyung’s lap, handing it over. “Happy Birthday babe.” gently pressing a kiss on his lips.

Taehyung's boxy smile appears and he starts unwrapping his gift while Namjoon bites his bottom lip, anticipating his reaction. 

Once the paper is off, he sees a dark grey hardcover sketch book, his name in silver foil at the bottom of the cover in an elegant font. He grins, he had mentioned to Namjoon that his current one is on his last pages and that he’d have to get a new one soon. He feels something keeping it from closing fully, so he opens it to see a blue and grey abstract painting that’s about 5x8 inches on a thin canvas, protected in a plastic sleeve. The piece is very striking, multitude of shades used to create it. Taehyung scans it with a small smile, he loves the contrast of its size and the expressiveness of it.  A business card is on the back when he flips it over, he doesn't recognize the name. He looks up at Namjoon with a curious look.

“I was walking near the gallery we go to because I got your sketchbook at a store nearby. I stepped in out of curiousity and wished you would have been me, I know you would have loved it.” Namjoon starts explaining. “The artist is from Daegu. Felt like a sign, so I commissioned him for - mmff.”

He gets interrupted with a deep kiss, catching Namjoon by surprise and leaving him breathless. “Thank you baby, I love it.”

“You’re welcome. Glad you love it because I love you.” Namjoon whispers, eyes twinkling.

Taehyung feels nothing but warmth and adoration radiating from Namjoon. 

“That’s not fair, I wanted to say it about a month a half ago but I was too chicken shit.”

Namjoon lets out a breath he didn't know he was holding and chokes out a laugh, throwing his head back. Taehyung starts laughing as well.

“I’m serious. It fully hit me the day you started talking about black holes, your hands were waving around, eyes super big and you were talking really fast explaining the research you were going to be doing. You were like the energizer bunny, just kept going and going. I want more moments like that with you, you’re so passionate in the things you do, you’re so selfless and loving and I admire that as much as I love it, as much as I love you. I love you.” 

Namjoon’s eyes shine even brighter at Taehyung’s words. He remembers that day, Taehyung was following along well given the rapid pace he was talking at, Taehyung is a lot more intelligent than he lets on.

He presses his forehead against Taehyung’s. “Glad our paths crossed, so lucky to have you. You make me so unbelievably happy. Thank you for always being so understanding and thoughtful. You are my Polaris.”

Namjoon wakes up when he hears his phone continuously vibrating, he checks it, it’s 11:17 am and he sees a series of texts from Hoseok. 

Hobi-seokie 🌞: Namjoon

Hobi-seokie 🌞: Joon

Hobi-seokie 🌞: Best friend

Hobi-seokie 🌞: Joon baby, platonic love of my life besides Yoongles 🤗

Joonie 🌱: Yes?

Hobi-seokie 🌞: You’re awake, yay! Are you guys naked?

Joonie 🌱: The heck, no, omg Hobi 😩

Hobi-seokie 🌞: Just checking 🤭😛

The fuck? 

Ten seconds later, all the guys barge into his room with a strawberry cake in hand, singing Happy Birthday to Taehyung who jolts awake at the sudden commotion. Namjoon giggles and starts singing as well, helping his boyfriend sit up in his sleepy state. Once he’s more awake, Taehyung laughs at their silliness and thanks them. They all enjoy a big brunch cooked by Seokjin and Yoongi. Given the previous night’s events, Taehyung decides he just wants to relax, he’s more than happy just hanging out with them. They can plan something else the following weekend when they’re not as exhausted. 

As Hyunjin finishes his New Year’s Eve mass and people start making their way out the church in preparation for tonight's festivities, he sees a familiar face walking towards him. 

“Jiyeon, good afternoon.”

“Hi.” she says quietly.

“How are you?”  

“I’ve been better.”

Hyunjin points to one of the pews near them so they can sit down. Once they do, she takes a moment to gather her thoughts.

“I need to tell you something.”

Hyunjin nods, “Okay.”

“I found out I was pregnant about two month after you left. Yours, of course.” She gives him a tearful smile. “That’s why your Mom fired me and kicked me out, I told her and she wanted nothing to do with me. And she didn’t want to give you a reason to leave the seminary and come back, it was one of the worst things that could have happened in her eyes.” she dabs underneath her eyes with a tissue before continuing, “I genuinely wanted to tell you, please don’t hold that against me. Anyways, I moved away with Hana and we managed. But I was hit by a car a couple months after Jae was born when I was on my way home from work, the driver took him and I don’t know what became of my son. That’s why this place as a whole is so special to me, it gives a loving home to children that aren’t born with one. It gives them a second chance. I hope Jae was taken in by loving people, I refuse to believe anything else. I hope he’s happy.” she finishes as her shoulders shake with raw emotions, tears running down her face. She feels an immense weight lifted off her shoulders and Hyunjin is completely speechless.

They sit in silence for what seems like an hour before Jiyeon grabs her purse, handing her business card to Hyunjin.

“I’m sure you have more questions but I think I’ve dropped enough on you today. Here’s my number, I’ll be back next week if you’d like to talk then. It seems like Mina still has it out for me and I want to talk to you about that too. She was at an event a few days ago."

Hyunjin is extremely confused now, feelings all over the place.

“We’ll talk later okay? Thanks for listening to me and I’m sorry for being rude the last time we met, that was wrong of me and I don't want to hold on to this hurt any longer. None of this is your fault, I shouldn’t have acted that way with you...I’ll see you soon?” 

He finally finds his voice again. “I -, okay. Sure, this can wait until we see each other again. I have a lot to think about.” 

She nods and the sounds of her heels walking away mark the end of this massive revelation.

Jiyeon talks to Jungho later that evening, revealing her secret to him as well, feeling horrible for having kept it from her husband for so long but she feels like she’s drowning lately. She can’t hold it in anymore, the bottle has finally exploded. He holds her tight as she cries it out, she apologizes repeatedly for not telling him sooner and for using work as a means to deal with it. She knows she’s been busy but that’s no excuse to not make time for him, she’s cancelled multiple dates and he shushes her gently, saying it’s okay and thanking her for telling him now, they’ll work through it. When the clock strikes midnight into the new year later than night, Jungho can’t help but think of the secret he’s been keeping for so long as well.

He has to tell Jiyeon before that person takes matters into her own hands.

Chapter Text

Taehyung's dark stare is on Yuri as she smiles, drinks in both of their hands, but his glass covering his mouth so his full expression is hidden from full view. That’s what’s trending all over South Korea’s most popular sites and social media. And that's exactly what Yoongi is currently staring at on Twitter right at this moment as he's waiting for his morning coffee and pastry.

"It's too early for this shit." he mutters to himself.

He hasn't hung out much with Namjoon, he's been pretty busy with work and his side project with Hoseok. And now he feels bad, he feels like he’s out of the loop with so many things and it hits him that he really misses his giant of a best friend.

Yoon 🎵: Joon

Joonie 🌱: Yoonggiiiiii

Yoon 🎵: hi, you busy today? like after work?

Joonie 🌱: nope, am I finally seeing you? 🤓

Yoon 🎵: ah, yea. sorry, haven't been around much huh?

Joonie 🌱: we've all been busy, it's okay.

Yoon 🎵: still, dinner on me 😊 Come over to my place after work, what time do you get off?

Joonie 🌱: 5:30, should be able to get home by 6:30 ʕ •ᴥ• ʔ

Yoon 🎵: Cool...pad thai?

Joonie 🌱: YES PLEASE (づ ◕‿◕ )づ

Yoongi chuckles at the younger's enthusiasm. Which means the picture means nothing at all. Unless Namjoon doesn't know? He'll find out later.

Taehyung on the other hand, finds out right when he walks into his office, Jimin waiting by his desk with his favorite peach green tea.

"Hey Tae. Good morning." Jimin greets, handing over the hot drink.

"Hey Min. Thanks."

"Mhm. Uh, well, not to ruin your morning but you should see this." Jimin hands over his phone and Taehyung stares at the Naver article.

"Are you fucking serious?" Taehyung asks, almost a growl.

The main picture and the additional two attached to the article aren't anything incriminating but he hates the fact that he's the talk of Seoul yet again. The breakup was more than enough media attention for a lifetime. This was obviously taken at their latest event when Yuri tried to speak to him.

The headline reads:

TOP MODEL KANG YURI AND TOP DESIGNER KIM TAEHYUNG SEEN REKINDLING THEIR PAST ROMANCE

Taehyung gives Jimin his phone back before he gets even more upset, there’s a very good chance he would have tossed it out his office window. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath before taking a nice long sip of his tea. Now all he can think about is if Namjoon is going to see this anytime soon. Or worse, Yoongi and Hoseok. And Jungkook. Shit. Yuri and Taehyung do look close to each other and since it is hard to decipher his whole expression, well, the theories are flying around about what this means, it seems like most are convinced there is something going on again. And how could they not? He was so in love with her, and although he is a private person, he was more open to the media about their relationship. He'll stop by Namjoon’s apartment later tonight. He knows his boyfriend is busy with a long meeting today discussing upcoming exhibits and planning but on the bright side, none of the models really come in on Mondays so he should be able to avoid seeing Yuri at any point in the day.

Areum, the longtime housekeeper and Hyunjin’s former nanny, let's him into the family home. He gives her a hug and asks where his mom is. She leads him to one of the rooms in her house which has essentially turned into a prayer room with a small collection of books.

"Mother."

She turns from where she was kneeling with her eyes closed, a brick red wooden rosary in her hands.

"Hyunjin, sweetheart. What a nice surprise." Mina gets up to hug him and gives him a kiss on the cheek.

He stiffens slightly but if she notices, she doesn't say anything.

"What brings you here today son?" 

Hyunjin confronts her. "Why did you never tell me Jiyeon was pregnant with my child?"

The expression Mina's face contorts into is one that he's never seen before. "It was for your own good. You were leaving for the seminary shortly after and there was no point. She would have ruined everything, she had already tainted you and seduced you into sin."

"Mom, we had feelings for each other. While we never told you outright, I'm certain you had to have noticed there was something between us. It was something special and I don't regret it. Jiyeon was a good person,  she still is one." Hyunjin is angry and some of it is bleeding through his voice. 

"How did you find out?" she questions him, steady gaze on him.

"She told me."

"She told you?!" Mina blurts out as if she's being the one offended.

"She comes to my parish, she is a long-time donor and stops by every once in a while."

Mina was aware of that but keeps it to herself.

"So what, she's trying to be your friend again then?

"We have decided to be friendly with each other, yes. Is that why I never saw her again when I came back to visit? Because she was pregnant, did you really kick her out?

"We had a disagreement and she ended up leaving...simple as that."

"Something tells me it wasn't, but at least now I know I have a child out there. This shouldn't have been kept a secret, I’m disappointed. Very disappointed." 

"I was protecting you."

"By leaving a child without one of their parents?"

Mina stays quiet.

"I hope that child is okay and I will be helping Jiyeon in finding out what became of our son. I expected better from you." 

Hyunjin walks out briskly, leaving his mother fuming.

Namjoon hops into the shower right when he gets home. He's had a long but productive day, he's in a really good mood. He quickly texts Yoongi that he's going to shower and then head downstairs to meet him for dinner. He washes up speedily, his stomach growling at the thought of pad thai and thai ice tea. He gets out, puts on moisturizer and lotion, throwing on some thin shorts and an oversized burgundy long sleeved shirt and a black thick cardigan. He skips down to Yoongi's apartment, not even knocking and barges in, excited to finally spend some time with the older and devour some delicious food.

"Yoongiii!!!" Namjoon yells happily.

Yoongi comes out from his bedroom with a very cute gummy smile, walking towards his best friend.

"Hey Joon, sit down, I'll bring the food over, they just delivered it like 10 minutes ago."

Namjoon settles himself down on the couch, grabbing a pillow to make himself comfortable. Yoongi passes him a bowl that he has transferred their food into, going back to grab their drinks and some chili sauce, placing it on the little coffee table beside them.

"Thanks hyung." Namjoon says before stuffing his mouth with the flavorful noodles. Yoongi just shakes his head lightly and laughs.

"Someone was hungry."

"Starving."

Long day?"

Namjoon nods, cheeks cutely stuffed as he munches on some of the cream cheese stuffed fried wontons. “Yea, but it was really good. Really productive and I’m ready for our next exhibit, we’re focusing on telescopes.”

“Oh sounds fun, that will definitely be a hit with the kids.”

“Yea, what about you hyung? Seems like you’re even busier these days.”

Yoongi snorts. “Yea, I didn’t really realize until this morning how busy I've been.”

Namjoon shakes his head, amused. “Typical you.”

Yoongi rolls his eyes and pokes Namjoon’s thigh with one of his feet.

His curiosity from the morning comes back. “How have you and Taehyung been?”

“Great, just busy you know, I haven’t talked to him today actually but I’ll call him later.” 

Yoongi hums. He’s not sure if he should say something right now. Namjoon notices.

“Hyung?”

“Huh?” 

“You looked like you were in deep thought.”

“Ah, yea…” Yoongi says. Ah fuck it. “I was actually thinking about the two of you and I feel like I’m missing part of the story here.”

“What are you talking about?”

Yoongi takes his phone out of his pocket and looks for the post he had seen in the morning. He taps on it and passes his phone to Namjoon.

Namjoon looks at him curiously before taking it. And then he sees the pictures. He sighs and then rubs a hand over his face at this new information. He plops down on the pillow behind him.

“That’s his ex-girlfriend. She’s, uh, she’s just- just something else.” Namjoon groans and Yoongi scoots over to lovingly pat his knee.

“Does she know about you two?”

“Yea.”

“Wow .“

“I know.”

“Has Taehyung mentioned anything?” Yoongi cocks his eyebrow as he asks. 

“No, but he did text me in the morning that he wanted to talk to me, told him I was going to be with you tonight and he said to call when I had the chance.”

“Ahh, I see. Just, be careful yea?”

Namjoon softly smiles. “I am. It’s definitely an interesting ride dating someone as high profile in Seoul’s fashion scene as him but it’s all more than worth it. He’s amazing.” The smile has turned into a shy one. 

“You’re fucking whipped.”

Namjoon swats Yoongi’s leg at that. He knows he is.

While Taehyung is patient, his little brother, well, not so much. Jungkook gawked when he saw the headline and pictures all over social media during his lunch break, sitting at a small table on their university’s campus. Yugyeom was confused because he witnessed post breakup Taehyung and never in a million years would think they would get back together after all of that. Taehyung and Namjoon’s relationship was kept private from most people except the seven friends and Hana. 

“Please don’t tell me they’re back together.” Yugyeom breaks the silence. 

Jungkook shakes his head as he munches on his tuna kimbap. 

“Then?”

“Yuri wants to get back with my hyung but nope. Not happening. He’s with someone else…” he whispers shyly at the end. 

Yugyeom goes from confused to having a realization. “Ahhhh, I see, I see.” 

“Mhmm.” is all Jungkook says in response, a visit to Namjoon added to his schedule for today. 

When later arrives, he is met with a sleepy Hoseok.

“Hey Kook, come in.”

“Did I wake you up? Sorry.” apologizes jungkook. 

“I was waking up already, don’t worry. I feel like I get even more tired when I keep sleeping.”

The two catch up for a bit when Jungkook decides to ask if Hoseok has seen the photos. 

“Oh, yea. I’ve been waiting for Joonie to come home, his work bag is here though so he probably came when I was sleeping and went back out. Yoongi was the one that told me.”

“I just hope the pictures don’t cause any issues.”

“Nah, don’t worry. They’ll talk it out calmly. Besides, Yuri has been at it already with Namjoon, he’s aware of her antics.”

“Wait, what?”

“You didn’t know?” 

Jungkook whines. “Hyung, no, tell me. Ugh, she’s so annoying. Always was.” he huffs out at the end.

Hoseok giggles and orders food for the both of them, seems like there is more to catch up on. 

Namjoon goes back to his apartment around midnight, and finds Jungkook, Hoseok and Taehyung hanging out in the living room. Namjoon is surprised given the late hour but waves at them as he slides off his slippers. He notices Jungkook’s eyes getting bigger, flicking from Namjoon to Taehyung, back and forth. He bites his lip to keep himself from laughing, the youngest looks nervous and he’s pretty sure everyone knows what’s going on by now. He’s annoyed, sure, but upset, no. 

“What’s up?” Namjoon talks first as he sits down next to Taehyung, looking at everyone with an amused look before snuggling up against Taehyung and laying his head down on his shoulder. They all seem to sigh in relief and Namjoon can’t help but giggle. He places his right hand  in Taehyung’s left one, squeezing it in comfort. Namjooon then stands back up and pulls Taehyung towards his bedroom, “We’ll be right back, there’s something Tae and I need to talk about.” Hoseok and Jungkook look at each other before nodding and turning up the volume, giving the couple the space they need.

“So…” Namjoon starts again once they’re inside his bedroom.

“I’m assuming you saw the pictures?” Taehyung asks as he sits down in the black swivel chair next to Namjoon’s desk. 

“I did, Yoongi was the one that told me. Told him about Yuri, we hadn’t hung out lately so I filled him in on pretty much everything.” Namjoon replies, putting the last of his recently washed clothes in his closet and drawers. 

“I see…” Taehyung twists the white gold ring he keeps on his right middle finger.

“I’m not mad Tae, I know this is an unfortunate part of your world. Well, my world now too I guess. Just a little annoyed because I can only imagine how it was when you two were actually together and post - uh, you know.” explains Namjoon, looking over at Taehyung with a warm gaze before reaching out to silently call him over. Taehyung swiftly gets up and tucks his head in the crook of Namjoon’s neck, pressing them both up against the wall in a tight hug.

“I know you hate gossip and people being nosey about your personal life. I recognized your suit from the day of the show and I wouldn’t accuse you of anything before hearing your side of the story.”

“We literally said two sentences to each other, whoever snapped that picture was just waiting for the right moment. I was telling her to keep her distance, she’s just so insistent, it’s exhausting.” he whines out at the end, a bubble of small laughter escaping Namjoon.

“Hey, don’t laugh at me.” he whines again, further nuzzling into Namjoon, his soft citrusy scent comforting him before he places a kiss there, making Namjoon shiver a little. Before he does anything else, he looks into Namjoon’s eyes and asks, “Are we okay?”

“We’re okay baby, thanks for coming over.” Namjooon runs his fingers through Tae’s wavy blue hair. Taehyung gives him a quick kiss before mouthing down the column of his neck, pressing Namjoon more firmly against the wall, hands gripping his waist, left knee placed in the middle of Namjoon’s legs.

Namjoon trembles at the sensation, Taehyung’s lips tickling him in the best of ways. He runs his hands over Taehyung’s chest and down his stomach, unbuttoning Taehyung’s shirt since he’s dressed in a suit today. All Taehyung wanted to do was rile his boyfriend up a little but it seems like Namjoon has something else in mind. He gives Namjoon a puzzled look.

“Calm down tiger, just want you to change into something more comfortable.” Namjoon playfully bites his shoulder before escaping his grasp to retrieve a taupe silk pajama set that he previously borrowed from Taehyung. Taehyung groans in annoyance, expecting some more fun. He strips down to his boxer briefs and pulls the soft clothes on, getting dragged back into the living room after.

“Namjoon, can you come over here please?” Jackson calls from across the room.

Namjoon skips over to where Jackson is stationed at, his mouse making some final edits to the photos on the screen. 

“Take a look, these are your set of pics I think work the best for the next release. What do you think?” Jackson pulls another chair to the table so that Namjoon can sit down next to him and go through the snapped shots. Namjoon sees why Jackson is one of the most sought out photographers, he captures all the models so gracefully while sticking to the theme, but he also snaps some randomly that always seem to fit in as well. It’s effortless from his part. Namjoon gives him a bright smile and a thumbs up, approving of them. Taehyung sees Jackson beam back at him from afar and can’t help but feel that the photographer looks at Namjoon in the same way he does. 

As he’s simmering with a little jealousy, Yuri walks into the room, Jiyeon guiding her to the area they are taking pictures. But when Jackson turns around to greet her, both Yuri and Jackson have looks of surprise, maybe even shock, on both of their faces. Namjoon and Jiyeon, being the two nearest to them, give them an odd look. Jackson clears his throat and introduces himself rather quickly, Yuri does the same before getting her hair and makeup done. When she leaves, he sits down and clears his throat again.

“Uh, are you okay?” whispers Namjoon.

Jackson rubs one of his hands over his face. “Ahhh, well. Yuri is my ex.”

“Oh.”

“Yea…” 

Taehyung sees Namjoon’s expression change along with Jackson’s, not knowing that another twist has been added. 

“You didn’t know she was modeling exclusively for Jiyeon-ssi?”

“No, I don’t follow the fashion world to be honest. Just happened to make a name for myself in the industry a couple years ago after a stroke of luck.”

“Relatable.” Namjoon gives him another smile in an attempt to leave the air of awkwardness of what just happened behind. 

The next show goes smoothly, House Jiyeon’s models standing out at the intimate GQ event. Yuri glares daggers at Namjoon backstage after they’re done, the taller garnering most of the attention with his unique features and the cute dimpled smile he gave the crowd as they closed out the night. Jiyeon noticed this too and took this time to assess Namjoon. It’s no secret Yuri is her go to model, the two developed a strong bond when she was going out with Taehyung, she really became like a daughter to her. Namjoon on the other hand, is someone she has barely spoken to unless it’s about work, there is really no desire on her part to get to know him better. But she’s not clueless either, she sees how close Namjoon is getting to Taehyung and Miyeon, even Hana. She also can’t deny that Namjoon is naturally gifted when it comes to modeling, she’s surprised he wasn’t modeling to begin with, he would not have had a hard time getting booked. 

As Namjoon packs the last of his things to head home, he receives a text from Seoyeon. He automatically gets nervous because it’s close to 2am already, he’s never known her to be up this late. 

Seoyeon 😇💗: Namjoon, darling. I know it’s late but can you please give me a call in the morning. It’s about Minho, but not an emergency.

His heart drops further at that and decides that no, he cannot wait until the morning and presses the call button. 

“I told you to call me in the morning.” Seoyeon says in a light manner, a tone that Namjoon recognizes as one that is soothing yet playful.

“What happened to Minho?” 

Seoyeon sighs. “Well, as you know he has been getting really sick lately and it got to the point where he has pneumonia now but it seems to be getting worse, there has been no improvement and they are advising us to transfer him to Daegu Catholic University Center. There are more specialized pediatric doctors at that hospital that will have better insight on his condition and what exactly is going on. He’s stable right now, so don’t worry but we do need to act quick. I’ll be heading over with him, most likely within then next week. They're just finishing up some things on this end before we go down south.” Namjoon sucks in a whiff of air to which Seoyeon kindly reminds him to breathe. 

Jungkook goes to check and see if Namjoon is ready to go home, he offered him a ride earlier because Taehyung was staying behind a little longer since key executives from GQ would be present. Partnerships are important in any business.

As he gets closer he notices Namjoon’s eyes getting watery, his face marred by a prominent frown. He looks up and sees Jungkook, and ends the call with some hushed words.

“Hyung?” the younger simply asks.

“Hey, can you take me home now please?”

“Yea, of course, I came to ask you if you were ready.”

Namjoon nods, putting on his long coat and making his way towards the back exit, Jungkook following closely behind. As they’re halfway to Namjoon’s apartment, he notices from his peripheral view that a few tears have made their way down Namjoon’s cheeks, the older quickly wiping them away. Jungkook can tell he’s trying to keep it together but doesn’t say anything, waiting until they get to his place to see how he can help. When they arrive, they luckily find a spot to park nearby.

“I’ll walk you up.”

Namjoon just nods continuously, tears now flowing down freely. Jungkook panics a bit but manages to punch in their apartment’s code quickly, grabbing his bag from him, and helping him take off his coat while they toe off their shoes. The pair move quietly since they notice Seokjin and Hoseok passed out on the couch, Netflix paused with the Are you still watching? script on the screen. 

Namjoon breaks down once he steps into his room.  

“Oh hyung..” Jungkook hugs Namjoon's slumped and weeping form, leading him to his bed to sit him down. 

Jungkook goes to the closet, trying to find some more comfortable clothes for the model to change into. He spots some soft looking shorts and an oversized sweater he’s seen Namjoon lounge around in before. Jungkook decides to stay with Namjoon for the night, not wanting to leave the older one in a vulnerable state. He grabs a pair of black sweatpants and an off white shirt for himself.

“Change please. I’ll go to the bathroom and be right back, not leaving you alone tonight.”

Namjoon gives him a wobbly smile as he begins to unbutton his jeans, Jungkook makes his way to the bathroom and quickly changes. He quietly walks towards the kitchen to grab the older a glass of water. As he walks back, he sees Seokjin stir awake and tilt his head to the side when he sees the younger. Jungkook waves and goes back to Namjoon’s bedroom where he’s blowing his nose, tears still falling but looking a little more calm now.

He hands Namjooon the glass and watches him take a few short sips. Jungkook pulls back the cream colored bed sheets, passing Namjoon the fluffier comforter as he snuggles under the thinner one. They lay down facing each other, the room only being lit from Namjoon’s dim bedside lamp.

“You want to talk about it?” Jungkook asks softly.

Namjoon pulls his comforter up to his chin, slightly sniffling. “Minho has been really sick lately and they’re transferring him to a hospital in Daegu, it’s come to the point where they need more specialized doctors to take a look at him.”

A little gasp escapes Jungkook’s now downturned lips. “He’s so young...he was so energetic last time I saw him...but I’m glad that he’ll be getting more help now, he’ll be under even better care now hyung. When is he leaving?”

“As soon as his current doctors greenlight the move, I think they are just finishing up some paperwork and tests to pass on to the new medical team that will be taking over. I want to go see him before he leaves.”

“Let me know hyung, I’ll be more than happy to take you. I want to see him too.” 

“I’d appreciate that Kook, thanks. I know he’ll be glad to see his Googie .” 

Jungkook smiles big at that, they huddle closer and fall asleep with Namjoon’s head tucked under Jungkook’s chin. 

Hyunjin is conversing with the two contractors hired to replace some of the pews in the front rows when he hears someone walking into the church. He looks up to see his mother. The tension from their last conversation is still there but he does not turn her away. He walks up to her, steps a little hesitant.

“Mother, hello, how may I help you?” Mina's expression is neutral, Hyunjin can’t get a clear read on her. 

“I’ve thought a lot about our last discussion and I understand now that I did not go about the whole situation in the best way. I want to confess, I want to take part in the sacrament of healing.”

Hyunjin stares at her with concern and doubt swimming in his eyes, but he ultimately decides to allow it. They both step into the appropriate booths, a thin screen separating them under faint lighting as they begin the process with the sign of the cross.

“Bless me father, for I have sinned...I was behind the disappearance of Jiyeon’s son, but I made sure he had a good upbringing. You may have even met him, he was raised in this orphanage. That is all I will say for now.”

Hyunjin has never felt his heart drop and break as much as it has in this exact moment. His own mother behind Jiyeon's agony and sorrow over her missing son for over twenty years. This is cruel, he is speechless. He knows he cannot speak a word of anything she has just said, bound by the seal of confession.  A lone tear makes its way down his face, an ominous silence surrounding the mother and son as this lifelong secret unravels even more.

Chapter Text

Jungho can’t say he’s too shocked by what Taehyung has just told him. He did notice his son being happier lately and figured there was someone new in his life. But Jungho knows this time around Taehyung has to be more careful with his relationship given that it’s two men, the country not quite accepting of anything besides straight couples just yet. Taehyung has become a public figure quite fast given both Jungho’s and Jiyeon’s careers, as well as his high profile relationship with Yuri. To be honest, Jungho never really imagined this life, he’s not complaining but this is one of the rare moments he wonders what it would have been if he had stayed in Daegu. 

“You’re not going to say anything?” Taehyung asks Jungho, who is lost in deep thought. 

Jungho snaps out of it, chuckling before speaking. “Was just thinking a little too much, sorry Tae. But I’m glad you’ve found someone that is a better fit for you. He sounds very kind and humble, that’s what you need.” he jokes at the end. 

Taehyung rolls his eyes at him but there is a content curl to his lips. “He is, and yea, he keeps me grounded. It’s…refreshing.” 

“Good. That’s what a partner should do.”

“He’s amazing.”

“So when do I get to meet him?” asks Jungho.

Taehyung’s face brightens. “When all our schedules are clear. I haven’t told Jiyeon-ssi exactly who it is yet though” 

“You need to talk to her.”

“I know, but she’s so set on Yuri, like she’s breathing down my neck with it.”

Jungho laughs, the way his son is whining reminds him a lot of Yerin.

“Talk to her.” Jungho’s word is final.

“Fine.”

Taehyung leaves his parent’s room after having a mostly nice chat with his Dad minus him telling Taehyung to talk to Jiyeon like a small child. And just as luck would have it, he sees Jiyeon talking to Jungkook in the kitchen, putting some food on the dining room table for a late lunch. 

“Hyung.” Jungkook greets.

“Hey Kook.”

“I didn’t know you were here.” 

“I was talking to Dad.”

“Ahh okay.” Jungkook mumbles as he chews his food. Taehyung flicks him on the head and then turns his attention to Jiyeon.

“Tae,” she pauses, “is it Namjoon?” 

“Huh?” Taehyung looks at her in surprise. 

“The person you’re with now?”

Taehyung makes a short startled noise and Jungkook looks at them with wide eyes before stuffing his mouth with more rice. There is an awkward moment of silence.

“Yes.” Taehyung replies once he composes himself.

Jiyeon takes a moment to think. Taehyung is still upset with her to some extent and she gets it. She has been vocal about her desire to see Yuri and Taehyung work things out but it is obviously too late for that.

“How long have you two been together?” 

“It’s been several months now.” he answers quietly. 

She sighs lightly but nods her head. But then she pauses again, Namjoon hasn’t been with House Jiyeon that long.

“You knew him before he joined us then?” she asks, the realization hitting her. 

Taehyung says yes , choosing to keep his answers short as possible under the sudden interrogation. 

“Well, you should invite him to dinner one of these days so we can all get properly acquainted.” she offers. 

Taehyung gives her a hint of a smile and she takes it as a sign of a truce.

Namjoon is currently with Minho, the young boy sitting in his lap as he reads to him, the kid is looking a lot less lively than the last time he saw him. Minho and Seoyeon are traveling to Daegu tomorrow and Namjoon wanted to see him beforehand. He’ll be meeting them tomorrow but he wants to ask his supervisor if working remotely on some days can be worked out, he wants to help Seoyeon with this and be there for Minho. His heart breaks at seeing him so exhausted, eyes beginning to drift off in the middle of their little reading session, the complete opposite of how he usually acts. There are no random questions or him asking Namjoon how to pronounce words correctly. He’s just there, tired. He sees Nari and Beomsoo from afar playing on their own, but their eyes wander every now and then to where Minho and him are seated. But even at their young age they understand that something serious is going on. Namjoon decides to close the book, carrying the boy back inside his shared room and onto his bed. Seoyeon follows them with some medicine and a cup of water. They get him to take it and Namjoon strokes his hair until he falls asleep, which doesn’t take long given the medication and his constant fatigue these days.

“Are you still going to meet us there tomorrow?” Seoyeon pulls a blanket over Minho. 

“Yea, I'll be there.” Namjoon responds, eyes never leaving the younger. 

“Okay then. We’ll see you tomorrow then?”

Namjoon nods, gathering his things and saying goodbye to everyone else before meeting Yoongi outside, who came to pick him up. 

“Hey Joon.” Yoongi softly greets, noticing how anxious Namjoon looks. “How is he?”

Namjoon just shakes his head, tears building up but he wills them away. Yoongi lets the younger gather himself as he starts the car to drive back home. Namjoon eventually speaks up, sadness evident in his tone.

“He looks so drained.” Namjoon clears his throat and looks out the window when the tears break free.

Yoongi has met the kids at St. Joseph’s, he’s familiar with Minho and how close he is to Namjoon. The situation breaks his heart too. He reaches over to squeeze Namjoon’s hand, opting for silent support.

To both Yoongi and Namjoon’s surprise, Taehyung is at Namjoon and Hoseok’s apartment when they get there. Hoseok makes note of the redness in Namjoon’s eyes, he can tell right away that his best friend has been crying. Namjoon looks at Yoongi, and Yoongi simply points a nod towards Taehyung and Hoseok. Namjoon tells them everything going on with Minho.

Back at the Kim residence, Jungho can’t help but feel that Jiyeon has been more distant lately. Things haven’t been the same since the day she confessed her biggest secret to him, that she has a missing child. She’s overworking herself again, continuing to cancel date nights. He’s feeling cast aside and he knows it’s going to get worse soon. Because the backlash of his secret isn’t going to be from just Jiyeon. Most of it is going to be from Taehyung, and he’s terrified to see how everything turns out.

“So you’re going to be traveling back and forth to Daegu regularly?” Taehyung is eyeing Namjoon warily, trying to assess how he’s feeling. Namjoon had cried a lot earlier when he explained what was going on.

“Yea, during the weekends. I was thinking at least twice a month but we’ll see.” Namjoon replies tiredly.

“Okay, what about work? You know, since they need you on weekends sometimes, especially for shows and stuff…” 

“I’ve already talked to my supervisors at the museum, we'll work something out. The modeling can be set aside, that’s the least of my worries right now. I’ll talk to Hana and Jackson about it tomorrow.”

“Oh, alright.” 

Namjoon is still lost in thought, nibbling on his bottom lip. He rubs his eyes and settles down to sleep after a very exhausting day.  “Are you gonna stay?” Namjoon quietly asks Taehyung.

“If that's okay, yea.”

Namjoon scoots over to make some space for him and Taehyung quickly wraps his arms around him, it's their first physical contact of the day. If he feels Namjoon start trembling and his shirt getting wet where Namjoon's face is tucked in, he doesn’t say anything. He let’s it be and rubs Namjoon's back until he finally falls asleep. 

“I have a friend in Daegu that can host you when you go visit, she always lets me stay when I’m in town. I can ask her if you want. I’m sorry you all are going through this, it must be really hard since he’s really young.” Jackson gives Namjoon a sympathetic look. 

“And we’ll work around your schedule, whenever you can work with us is fine!” Hana adds, patting Namjoon’s hand as they sit around one of the tables in the break room. 

Taehyung walks in. “Joon, are you ready?”

“Oh, yea.” Namjoon looks at him but then turns his attention back to Hana and Jackson. “Thanks for listening to me and letting us figure something out. I’ll see you guys for the next photoshoot and then we’ll just go with the flow after that.”

“Of course, bye Namjoon. Make sure to take care of yourself, you can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself either, okay?” Hana is looking at him with kind eyes.

“See you around, let me know about what I told you, yea? Jessi and I are more than happy to help.” Jackson adds and Taehyung stares at him with a slightly heated glare.  

“I’ll keep that in mind, thank you.”

As they walk out the building so Taehyung can drive him back to the museum, Namjoon is silent, his mind elsewhere. Namjoon is taking this news really hard, especially when he genuinely considers Minho as family, part of the family that is so damn special to him after starting this life without one. The drive is a quiet one, Taehyung is not sure any words would help right now.

Namjoon is on the train to Daegu the next day, getting an initial feel for the two hour ride. He looks around, thankful the train isn’t too packed and that he gets to peacefully listen to Epik High albums. He does feel weird though, not used to traveling alone. He does nod off every now and then throughout the trip, an odd sensation still crawling through him. 

The conductor’s voice booms through the speakers suddenly, snapping him out of his sleepy state as he gathers his two bags. He gets off and spots Seoyeon waiting for him, a relieved smile on his face as he speed walks towards her.

“Hey sweetheart.” Seoyeon greets him with a big hug. All he can do is squeeze her a little tighter. “Let’s get going, Minho is waiting for you.”

They get inside the taxi and Seoyeon fills him in on what the doctors have told her. Minho has a serious case of pneumonia but there are other symptoms that are signaling that he may have some underlying conditions that were never caught during regular checkups until now. 

As they walk inside the hospital and go to the floor Minho is at, someone’s eyes focus on them, she’s been waiting for their arrival. She stares at them in curiosity as she finally sees them in person. She smiles at the sight of Namjoon, the young man she’s heard so much about from Mina. Mina’ grandson and Taehyung’s boyfriend. Her eyes tear up at the thought of Taehyung and how much she’s missed out on. She gets upset again at not having any contact with him since that fateful day, Jungho completely cut her out of their lives. Until now that is. Yerin has paid for her wrongdoings and wants to make things right, beginning with Taehyung. She goes back to her current task and wait for the right moment to meet them.

Namjoon sticks to his plan of visiting every two weeks, leaving on Friday evenings and coming back Sunday afternoons. However, this unfortunately leads to him and Taehyung not spending as much time together, although today they made some time to do so. Taehyung knows how important it is for Namjoon to go and visit but he sees him looking a lot more tired lately, it even looks like he’s losing weight. Taehyung feels like Namjoon is overworking himself in both his work and personal life and he doesn’t see this ending well, it reminds him of Jiyeon. What Hana said the other day echoes back in his head - how is Namjoon supposed to look out for others if he isn’t looking out after himself? Taehyung doesn’t really know how to approach this, Namjoon has been a little more sensitive lately, he wants Namjoon to talk to him about it but he is keeping a lot of it to himself.  

“Joon?”

“Hm?” 

“You know I can take you to Daegu right? I don’t mind taking you and bringing you back.”

“I don’t want to bother you.” Namjoon wiggles to make himself more comfortable on the couch. 

He continues. “Tae, I don’t - you’re a busy person, I don’t want to take up anyone else’s time if I can help it.”

“You can’t when I’m offering?” Taehyung says a tad exasperated.

Namjoon stares at him with an expression Taehyung can’t decipher.

“I can work remotely if I need to. I’m just - the offer is always there okay?” mumbles Taehyung, no longer looking at his boyfriend.

Namjoon takes a deep breath as if he gets knocked back into reality. “Right...right. Yea, okay, thank you.” A tiny smile is on Namjoon's face now and Taehyung wishes he could bring it back full time. 

Namjoon arrives at the hospital for the fifth time since beginning to travel back and forth from Seoul when he sees Seoyeon talking to a woman that has an air of familiarity, he feels it as soon as his eyes land on her. She looks like someone he knows but he can’t put a finger on it. The woman is dressed in business casual clothes but she has a name tag on that shows she is a hospital volunteer.  She might have been here one of the other times he came to visit but he can’t say for sure.

Seoyeon hears him walking towards them and gives him a warm smile. “Hi, how was the ride over?”

“Same as always, it was fine.” he replies, turning his attention to the women with her.

“Ah yes,” Seoyeon begins, “Namjoon, meet Yerin-ssi. She’s one of the lovely volunteers here, she’s been keeping me company.”

Namjoon introduces himself with a graceful bow. “Hello, nice to meet you.”

Yerin bows too. “And you as well, Seoyeon was just talking about you. Recent college graduate yes? Congrats on the accomplishment.” she says kindly.

“Ahh, it’s been over half a year but yea, still recent, feels like I go thrown into the real world from one day to the next. Definitely some whiplash and a lot of things have happened that I never expected. But it has been great for the most part.”

Yerin smiles. Namjoon has an aura to him that makes her feel warm, and if what she's been told is true, then she could not be happier that he is the one with Taehyung now. The three continue small talk as they walk to Minho’s room. 

A cute grin appears when he sees Namjoon. “Namjoon hyung!” Minho says excitedly.

“Minho, how are you feeling?”

“Tired. And I get a lot of boogers in my nose and when I cough.” the kid pouts and then twists his face in disgust. “The doctors told me there’s a lot in my chest.”

Namjoon is amused at his grossed out expression. “What else did they tell you?”

“Uhhh. To keep eating well and drink a lot of water with my medicine. And to be patient.'' 

“Okay, so far so good then, right?”

“Mhm, yes hyung.”

“Great.” Namjoon brings a chair over to the side of his bed.

“Hyung, what book did you bring today?”

“It’s actually a coloring book on the solar system. I can read as you color the pages? I bought you some new markers and colored pencils. Or I have another book on sea creatures if you just want to read.”

Minho’s face brightens in an instant. “The coloring book please! Can you help me?” 

“Of course.”

Minho is promptly passed out now, the two colored and read the book for over an hour, and it would have been more if it wasn’t for Minho’s doctors coming in to check in on him. He decides to go to the hospital’s cafeteria and get something small to eat. Namjoon hasn’t had much of an appetite lately, he knows he hasn’t been taking the best care of himself but it’s not like he’s doing it on purpose, he can’t really stomach much with everything going on. He’s also feeling more tired than usual and knows he needs to pump the brakes. The stress and anxiety that has developed within him keeps him on edge, but not always in an obvious way, sometimes it’s a constant background feeling of dullness and dread that he doesn’t notice until way later. 

He picks a table to sit at by one of the corners of the room, he takes off his mask and runs his hands through his hair. He thinks of Taehyung, who he hasn’t seen as much as he would like to and it suddenly hits him how off he’s been with his boyfriend. Taehyung, who has been so understanding and supportive but Namjoon hasn’t really acknowledged it or been talking to him as much. Shit. He pulls out his phone to text him, the last time they talked was two days ago. And now Namjoon feels really horrible because he left him on read.

“Where’s Namjoon?” Jimin is grabbing two beers from Taehyung’s refrigerator.

“In Daegu.”

“Oh, I thought he was gonna be here today?”

“Yea, I wanted him to but…” he finishes with a sad shrug.

“Tae?”

“Yea?”

“Are you okay?”

Taehyung snorts. “No but I’m trying. His mind is completely focused on Minho, which I’m not complaining about, I completely understand. But it feels like he’s kind of pushing me away without realizing it?.”

“Right, you want him to talk to you more about it, that he would let you support him more. But that’s gotta come from him, I’m sure he’ll realize it soon.”

“God, that makes me sound like a big baby.”

“No it doesn’t. He’s your boyfriend, of course you want to be there for him. Especially when you know you can help in some way.”

As Jimin finishes his sentence, Taehyung’s phone pings. A text from Namjoon.

Taehyung sighs. “Speaking of.”

“Wow, guess that realization just hit.” whispers Jimin as he sees Namjoon’s name on the screen.

Joon 💚: Tae 

Joon 💚: I’m sorry 😞 I know I haven’t been the best person to be around lately, it kinda hit me right now and...can we meet up when I go back to Seoul tomorrow? 

Joon 💚: I love you

“Aww, he’s so cute.” Jimin says as he reads the text. Taehyung sighs again.

“Aren’t you going to text him back?” Jimin’s brows are furrowed now.

“Yea, in a bit.”

“Do it right now. Don’t tell me you’re feeling petty?”

Taehyung feels horrible but he kind of does. He shrugs.

“Tae, you know he didn’t mean it, he’s apologizing and it seems like the first thing he wants to do when gets back is see you .”

“Hey, you’re supposed to be on my side.” pouts Taehyung.

“I am but this is just a small bump, he messed up a bit in the communication department but he is fixing that now.”

“You’re right.” 

“Of course I am.” Jimin hands him a beer.  

Tae 😘: I love you too, let me know when you’re back

Namjoon wakes up the next day with a major headache, the beginning of what seems to be a fever and chills all over his body.

“Fuck.” he says to himself. He’s getting sick. 

He heads downstairs to the kitchen area of Jessi’s place and sees her and Seoyeon having breakfast. He groans when he sits down, he feels so cold and hot at the same time.

“Honey, are you okay?” Seoyeon asks worriedly, Jessi’s expression matching hers.

“I’m getting sick I think.”

“Do you want some tea?” Jessi starts getting up before Namjoon stops her with a wave of his hands.

“Yea, I’ll get it, thank you.”

He sees the white and blue teapot on the stove but when he stands back up, he feels overwhelmingly weak and lightheaded, the room spins and his world fades to black.

Taehyung is having breakfast with his parents and Jungkook, who is talking about his latest project with Yugyeom when his phone starts ringing.

Jungkook looks at his phone confused. “Jackson hyung? Let me get this real quick.” He picks up and all he gets to say is hello before everyone can hear Jackson talking super fast and loud, and he’s not even on speaker. 

“What?” Jungkook’s face drops and he looks directly at Taehyung.

“Hyung, wait, you talk to him.” Jungkook practically throws his phone to Taehyung, turning to Jungho and Jiyeon to let them know what’s happening.

“Jackson, what is going on?”

“Namjoon is in the hospital, the same one as Minho. Jessi called me saying he fainted during breakfast. He hasn’t woken up!” Jackson rapidly explains.

Taehyung feels his blood turn cold.

“What!? He hasn’t woken up at all?”

“No, not at all! They haven’t told Seoyeon-ssi or Jessi much. That’s all I know right now, sorry.”

“I need to go, shit. I need to see him.” Taehyung says with a strained voice, eyes starting to water. 

“I’ll be in contact, I’ll see you there.” Jackson hangs up and Jungkook texts Jackson’s number to Taehyung as soon as they are done talking. 

Jungho speaks next. “Tae, what do you want to do? What hospital is he at?”

“He’s all the way in Daegu, I - “ Taehyung can’t keep it in anymore, he starts crying. He feels his dad’s arms wrap around him, rubbing his back as he gently tells Taehyung to gather his stuff and that he’ll get them tickets for the next KTX train out to Daegu, he’s going with him. Taehyung can only hope it's nothing serious but he feels a heavy weight in his chest. He cries more at the thought of Namjoon’s last text to him being I love you. 

Chapter Text

Yerin watches as someone is wheeled into the hospital as she’s finished doing her rounds checking in on patient’s families throughout the first two floors in the section of the hospital that she’s currently in. This section includes one of the emergency departments and one of the Intensive Care Units. It’s an unfortunate sight that she sees on a regular basis but this time she sees Seoyeon, a priest and another young woman trailing behind the patient in the gurney. It can’t be Minho she thinks to herself, she just saw him last night in the pediatrics department. She gets a glimpse of the patient as they turn a corner, it’s Namjoon.

Her mind takes her back to the day she was sentenced to 15 years in prison for her role in a fraud scheme at the bank she used to work at. Saying goodbye to 6 month old Taehyung was the hardest thing she’s ever had to do. Even more so when Jungho left her like she was nothing, but perhaps she deserved that for ruining the start of their family - all to secure them a better future in her eyes at the time. She managed to complete her prison sentence but the grief of never knowing what happened to Jungho and Taehyung overwhelmed her once more and she turned to the only thing that gave her a semblance of comfort - drugs. She did another stint in prison, this time 3 years. It was only due to her “good behavior” during all her total of 18 years in prison that she didn’t get more time added.

Yerin shivers, taking some deep breaths and prays to whoever is in the sky that Namjoon makes it out okay. She just met him but she can tell that he is a sweet soul. It truly makes her upset but quickly turns into fear as she realizes that Taehyung must either know by now or will find out very soon. Will he be coming down to Daegu? He has to, right? She is definitely not ready to approach him but she’d be lying to herself if she said she didn’t want to see him at least. She’s curious to see him up close, to see the person he’s grown into - does he look like her, or more like Jungho? She has no idea, just recently learning to use the most recent technology -  purposefully living in one of the more rural parts of Daegu when she got out of prison. She decides to take a small break in one of the common areas to think about her next move.

“What happened to Namjoon?” asked Hyunjin now that they’ve settled in the waiting room. Hyunjin was just arriving at the hospital to visit Minho when he saw Seoyeon rushing in alongside paramedics, Namjoon on the gurney with his head bandaged. He quickly ran to her side as the hospital staff received them and rushed Namjoon into the emergency room.

Seoyeon sniffles into her tissue, “One moment we were deciding what to eat for breakfast and the next he was falling to the floor, his head hitting the wooden chair in front of him before hitting the floor.”

“He just fainted out of nowhere, but hopefully it’s not that serious, there wasn’t a lot of blood…” Jessi says sadly.
In the room with Namjoon are two nurses who are putting on all the necessary monitors, IVs and cleaning up his head wound to get a better idea of what they are dealing with. They try to get signs of consciousness and unfortunately get no response. The doctor walks in and she’d like several blood tests to be taken to rule things out. One of the nurses gets on it and begins the process of taking blood out.

Still an hour away are Taehyung and his dad. Taehyung is silent, all he’s thinking of is that it's not as serious as Jackson made it sound, but knowing that Namjoon has not woken up is making him nauseous. Jungho doesn’t even know what to say to his son, rubbing his back every so often to offer some comfort. He hates that his first time meeting his oldest son’s boyfriends will be in a hospital. 

Back in Seoul, Yugyeom is trying to calm down a frantic Jungkook as they make their way to Namjoon’s apartment building to let Hoseok and Yoongi know. “Jungkookie, deep breathes, let’s slow that breathing down,” Yugyeom reminds him as they pull up to the front of the building. Jungkook tries but doesn’t even wait for him to turn off his car as he rushes out to run to Yoongi’s apartment first, Yugyeom yelling after him, trying to catch up.

Jungkook makes it to Yoongi’s door and starts knocking rapidly, “Yoongi hyung, please are you home?” he cries out. He sobs as he hears Yoongi say “Coming!”, realizing that he has to break the news to Namjoon’s two best friends.

Yoongi opens the door, “Hey Kook, what’s up - wait, what’s going on?” he asks as he sees tears coming down Jungkook’s face, an out of breath Yugyeom coming up right behind him.

“Hyung,” Jungkook cries out, burrowing his head into Yoongi’s chest, Yoongi looking at Yugyeom with a confused expression.

Yugyeom sighs slowly, “Jungkookie, please try to calm down, I know that’s the last thing you want to hear but you have to tell your hyung what’s going on,” Jungkook nods, he knows and he tries to ground himself in Yoongi’s embrace.

He manages to calm down enough to break the news to Yoongi, “Namjoon had an accident, he’s in the hospital, unconscious…” Jungkook finally says.

Yoongi leans back to look at him and freezes, “What kind of accident?”

“I’m not sure, Jackson hyung just called me to let my brother know, Taehyung is on the way to the hospital with our dad.”

That gets Yoongi moving, he starts grabbing his keys, his jacket when Jungkook stops him. 

“Hyung wait, we need to tell Hobi hyung too, do you think he’s home?” he asks as he sees Yoongi’s eyes well up.

“Not sure but you’re right, let’s go check and if not we’ll have to call him,” Yoongi replies.

They make their way upstairs, Yugyeom calling Jackson from Jungkook’s phone to see if there’s been any updates. He unfortunately doesn’t have any, but passes along Jessi’s number so they have a direct line to someone with Namjoon. Yoongi is the one to knock and someone opens the door, it’s Seokjin, Hoseok right behind him.

“Hobi hyung,” Jungkook says in a high pitched voice, trying to maintain his composure. 

Hoseok immediately notices the state both Jungkook and Yoongi are in, “What’s going on?”

Yoongi answers, “Hoba, Joonie is in the hospital, Jungkook got a call from Jackson…”

“What? But Minho - how,” begins Hoseok.

“Shit, wait, is he in Daegu?” Yoongi looks at both Jungkook and Hoseok. They nod.

“Fuck,” that’s all it takes for Yoongi’s tears to break free, Hobi hugging him tightly as he too begins to cry for their best friend. 

Taehyung and Jungho finally make it to Daegu, flagging down a taxi from the train station to make their way to the hospital. Taehyung shakes his right leg from the nerves and anxiety he feels. Jungho is uneasy as well, on top of everything going on already, he doesn’t make it a habit of visiting his hometown. When Jungho left Daegu, he left for good. His family understood why, still providing for his parents and his sister, setting them up for a better life when he started getting significant roles in dramas. The only time he ever stepped foot back in Daegu was when his father suddenly passed away two years ago, heartbreak overtaking any other emotion this place had given him. And he knows she has to be out here, somewhere, if life hadn’t taken her yet either. 
They pull up and get out, thanking their driver as they grab their small duffle bags and briskly walk to the emergency department, Taehyung’s eyes scanning for a familiar face, and he sees the one he’s looking for, Sister Seoyeon. He begins to walk towards her, a strained smile making its way across her face. She opens her arms and Taehyung dives into them, beginning to cry again. But not as hard this time, Taehyung feels as if her hug is magic, providing a warmth very similar to Namjoon’s.

It’s been hours since Namjoon fainted and there’s been no improvements, the hospital staff officially stating that he’s in a coma. Jungho manages to convince Taehyung to come with him to get a room at a nearby hotel to put their stuff away and try to eat something so they can come back more comfortably. Jungho figures they’ll be here for at least a couple of days at least. Seoyeon tells them she’ll call him if anything changes while they’re out.  

An hour after they leave, the nurse that took Namjoon’s blood, Harin, comes into Namjoon’s room. Both Seoyeon and Hyunjin pause their conversation so she can speak, “So nothing abnormal showed up in the blood tests that we’ve completed so far, there is some swelling but very minor thankfully. He’s never been to a hospital until now I’m assuming?”

“Correct, he’s never been too seriously injured or sick. ” Seoyeon replies.

Harin smiles, “I’m glad, his body is strong, that’ll help him recover much better “ she pauses, a small frown pulling at her features, “...but something else did pop up, not health related per say.”

“What is it?” asks Hyunjin. 

“Well, there is this database that was recently created by law enforcement, just last year. It uses the DNA from at home DNA test kits. Seeing as Namjoon here is an orphan, cases like his and patients that we can’t identify get automatically run through it to see if they match with anyone on it. We’ll get results tomorrow, there’s a good chance something will be found and I wanted to tell you just in case that happens.”

“Oh, wow,” Seoyeon can’t say much else at the moment, would they be finally figuring out who Namjoon’s parents, relatives might be? 
Hyunjin is just as surprised next to her, but maybe something good will come out of this unfortunate accident, ”The people that are allowing their DNA onto this database, they want to be found by loved ones.”

Harin nods towards him, “Correct, many people who have missing loved ones will do anything and everything they can to find them again, especially with something as new as this that deals with DNA. We’ll have the results and ultimately it will be up to Namjoon to decide what to do with that information. But as his emergency contact, you'll be given the information tomorrow if he’s not conscious by then.”

Seoyeon sighs deeply but nods, Hyunjin gently patting her hand in support.

Down a nearby hallway, Yerin watches cautiously, but closely, making sure she’s wearing a mask now. She can’t help but bring one of their hands to grip at her chest, her heart pounding wildly looking at her son and her ex-husband. Taehyung is as handsome as anyone could be, on the taller side with a nice complexion but is currently looking small in Jungho’s arms as they continue to wait for news after coming back from their hotel. It takes everything in her to not start crying, her two greatest loves just steps away from her once again.

Harin lightly knocks on Namjoon’s door the following morning.

“Yes dear?” Seoyeon has been expecting her.

“Here are the results, please let me know if you need anything, okay?” Harin smiles softly as she takes her leave.

“Thank you,” Seoyeon takes the envelope, her hand slightly trembling, turning to look at Hyunjin, he too gives her a supportive smile. She asks Hyunjin to come with her outside into the hallway as she opens the envelope that could very well change everything for Namjoon.

Daegu Catholic University Hospital 

Laboratory Report

DNA Testing 

Patient: Kim Namjoon

DNA Match: Found

Probability of Paternity: 99.9998%

Name of Mother: Kim Jiyeon

Additional information provided: Resides in Seoul, 44 years old, has a son named Kim Jungkook who is the half sibling of Kim Namjoon. 

Based on the analyses of the DNA loci listed below, the possibility of paternity is 99.9998%...

Seoyeon whips her head so fast to look at Hyunjin in complete shock at what they’ve just begun to read. Neither of them say anything, their brains catching up with this bombshell of information just dropped on them.

Hyunjin’s thoughts come to a halt however  - because Namjoon is his son.