Archive of Our Own ^beta

The rhythm of a big city was overwhelming already and all of his days here were hectic (and there weren’t that many of those), but today was especially challenging. Not only it was the first day in his life (probably not the first, but he is allowed to be a little dramatic today) when he didn’t hear all of his 4 alarms, but also managed to spill his americano all over his brand-new backpack and had an argument with his roommate over the mess in their shared room.

Luckily, he finally gets into the right classroom on time and plops himself down on one of the last free seats in the front row, waiting for the lecture to begin. It wasn’t long since he left the family den, but this new adult and independent life was already taking a toll on him. He couldn't wrap his mind around the fact that many people live their whole life in big cities like this one, where it's so easy to get lost, where you almost never see the same face twice in the crowd. And when he first thought of leaving the small town he was from to pursue his dream, he didn't even consider that loneliness can be a problem on his path.

But he was there, in the university of his dream, soon to be doing things that he dreamed of since he was a little boy. So maybe all of this was worth it in the end. No one said that one shitty day means that all of his days here will be like this. He just needed to move on and hope for the best, like his grandma always told him.

***

The purple light on the wall in front of him that was pouring from a small window signalized that the day was nearing its end. Somewhere in the depths of this ancient building freshmen were listening to the last lecture that they had today, and Jungkook theoretically had to be sitting with them. However, in reality he was sitting on the floor with his hands holding his head and looking at wall in front of him. On the right side there was a fence with a sign "No entry" and different kinds of demolition waste behind it. On the other side there was one of the many corridors that led to nowhere apparently, because it seemed like this place was built as a labyrinth for naive freshmen to get lost on the first day and to be eaten by the local creature.

"Hey, is everything alright?"

A careful soothing voice interrupts his little existential crisis, but it's not it that catches Jungkook's attention, but the lack of smell that comes with the voice. He focuses on the intruder and judging by a quiet chuckle not as discretely as he hoped to sniffs the air one more time, hoping to find out who was in front of him, but it's all pointless. It seems that this person is using a scent blocker, which is not that unusual, but a little expensive for most of the students.

"No, I don't think so. But it's okay."

His voice sounds a little hopeless, but he tries to act as nonchalant as possible, shrugging his shoulders slightly, like all he dreamed his whole life about was to sit on a dusty floor in the middle of nowhere. The pride that came with his natural status wasn't letting him admit that he needed someone's help, so if he had to sit there for few more hours, then that's how it was going to be.

"Is there any chance that you got lost?" The stranger continues to ignore his words and crouches down near him, while Jungkook tries to guess the length of the man's legs that seemed too long and pretty to exist from his point of view. His cheeks turn a pretty shade of pink as soon as the man moves closer, putting his hand on his knee carefully, like Jungkook was a scared animal that could run away at any moment. "There is nothing to be embarrassed of, it takes a lot of time for many freshmen to get used to out uni"

Franky Jungkook knew that there was no point in further attempts to lie, cause his distressed scent was speaking for himself, so he just silently nodded not make a more fool of himself in front of his guy. He didn't believe it was possible, but up close this stranger looked even more handsome with his adorable dimples on both cheeks that appeared with a friendly smile and round glasses sitting too low on the bridge of his nose, making Jungkook want to move them up on their legal place.

"Okay, cutie, let me help you find your way out. I can't leave a damsel in distress all alone"

As soon as the stranger notices the shy nod, he jumps back to his feet, extending a hand to help Jungkook get up as well with a wider smile than before. The action is nice and in any other situation Jungkook would shrug it off, but the circumstances make him want to fight for the last bits of his pride, so he narrows his eyes challengingly and gets up on his own, holding back a growl that tries to leave him. He is an alpha after all and he won't tolerate such disrespect even from the person that wants to help him, so only the fact that this person seems to be older than him makes him tone down his discontentment.

"I am Namjoon, by the way, and I suppose I am your hyung." Namjoon, as he now knows, seems to read Jungkook as an open book, but still pretends nothing happened, smiling friendly to him, and simply walks to the corridor that the young alpha was too hopeless to try, clearly knowing his way here.

He doesn't reveal his second gender though, so Kook tries to guess it on his own, supposing he is either a beta or an alpha, considering his previous dominant actions. Of course, he didn't think that omegas can't be dominant as well, but from his experience they aren't usually that cocky when someone is obviously struggling, as their instincts make them rather protective and almost motherly over the person in need, when alphas won't lose the chance to fight for their superiority and betas simply don't care that much and can let themselves to be a little playful.

"Jungkook. I mean, I'm Jungkook. Freshmen" He shutters over his words, realizing he was quite for a few long minutes too caught up in his own thoughts over the mysterious handsome stranger. "And thank you for your help. I need to be at my last lecture for today, but after the misery of getting lost in this shithole I can't be bothered, tbh" His last words sound more like barely distinguishable mumble, because he wasn't sure he was even telling that to Namjoon or to himself, but the said man still manages to hear him and laughs melodically.

"Hey, don't call it that. Yes, the building may be falling apart and a few pieces of the ceiling may or may not fell straight on my head over the few years, but it's authentic, you know. Like little family restaurants or old book shops. These walls are full of character, you just need to get to know them"

Jungkook awkwardly plays with the strap of his backpack, standing next to the nearly three-meter high statue, and looks around one more time, even though he is pretty sure most of the classes haven't ended yet. He had a test during his last class for the day, so they were allowed to leave earlier, giving the alpha the opportunity to prepare for the meeting. He had plenty of questions to ask the older, and he couldn't wait for them to get to know each other better.

Kook didn't know why the mysterious but friendly alpha was making him feel so nervous and intimidated, even though he was an alpha himself. He was supposed to feel threatened and on edge around other mature alphas, was supposed to want to prove his status, or at least that's what his father told him. But with Namjoon it was completely different right from the start. Jungkook was indeed a little frustrated when the older alpha started treating him like his inferior and calling him a variety of nicknames, but their age difference pretty much explained it all, so it was easier for Kook to ignore that. Still, it was hard for the younger to understand his feelings fully.

"Sorry, I'm late, my class ended just now," Jungkook almost jumps on the place from the sudden appearance of a familiar voice, feeling the strong hand on his shoulder, and turns to see Namjoon with wind-ruffled hair catching his breath. Did he really run all the way here?

"Don't worry, hyung. It's me who came earlier," a small smile appears on the younger's face, as he tries not to stare at the hand that was still touching him. It seemed that the other was quite generous with all kinds of physical affection, even considering that they barely knew each other. Jungkook didn't mind though.

They headed out to the little cafe, that Hoseok - his roommate - described as the perfect place for the first date, before Jungkook threw a pillow at him, saying that it's not a date with a soft blush on his cheeks. Well, he wasn't sure, but the older didn't need to know that.

Turned out it was truly the most perfect place he could choose, so Jungkook will definitely have to thank Hoseok. It was pretty small, but very cosy, with small tables mostly for two and various plants hanging from the shelves above them. Something about this place was just screaming that it was one of those cafes run by the family, so everything was decorated and organized with extra care and love. There were already a few people working on their laptops or drinking from the mismatched cups that seemed to be like that on purpose, but it wasn't too loud, so the two newcomers could chat comfortably.

"You can order first, I wanna have look at the pastry," Namjoon nods at the counter, walking towards the glass display case, and looks so adorable with the thoughtful expression, that Jungkook barely remembers that he has to talk in order to buy something and silently opens his mouth, making the cute young woman behind the counter giggle knowingly.

"Uh... Can I please have black coffee and a ham and cheese sandwich?" he finally says, politely smiling, even though this lady laughed at him, and reaches to take out his wallet from the backpack, when a tanned hand stops him, zipping it back.

"I'll pay, don't worry. Hi, can I have a chicken sandwich, a brownie and the sweetest drink you have, please?" Namjoon easily steps forward with a confident smile and slips his credit card to the young woman.

"What? No," Jungkook looks at the older man dumbfoundedly and tries to stop him, but doesn't succeed in taking the card from his hands because the lady beats him to it. "I can pay for myself, you don't have to do that, hyung."

"Nonsense," Namjoon shakes his head and furrows his eyebrows, looking at Jungkook that was pouting without even realizing, while the woman behind the counter leans on her elbows and places her face in her hands, looking at them. "I'm older and you're a freshman. I'm pretty sure you don't have lots of spare money, cupcake"

"I'll pay the next time"

"Whatever"

"Feel free to take a sit and I will bring your order in a few minutes", the woman hands the card back to Namjoon and smiles widely before heading to pick everything that they ordered. Jungkook huffs and scrunches his nose, not liking the obvious defeat, but still looks around, trying to choose the best place.

"What about that table near the window?" He changes the topic and tilt his head to the side bird-like looking at the other alpha. They were there to have a good time and not to argue after all.

"I love it"

Namjoon is concise as always, placing a hand on Jungkook's back to push him towards the chosen place. They easily continue the conversation that they started on their way here, while their order is being prepared. Namjoon shares that he wasn't born here, but his family moved when he was around 6, so he could say he was raised as a big city boy, not really surprising the other alpha with that. Jungkook tells him how much he misses the beach and his grandparents that lived across the street in return, while Joon is nodding sympathetically, because apparently he doesn't see his family often as well, too busy with his studies.

"Here you go!" the young woman suddenly appears with their food, placing everything on the small table from an old-fashioned tray that fit the atmosphere of the place so well. "I made you strawberry milkshake, I hope you'll like it"

"I already love it" Namjoon sends her a charming smile, that makes Jungkook stare at him for a few seconds, ignoring the food even though he was obviously hungry after a long day of studying.

"Enjoy your food."

Jungkook nods a thank you, seeing her leave under the accompaniment of the old tray's rattle, and quickly turns his head with a puzzled expression, when he hears Namjoon laughing. He finally shifts his attention to the table and notices the possible reason of the other's amusement - their drinks. Namjoon's milkshake in a tall and simple jar. And his own coffee in a wide pink cup with a cat face on it. Of course, Jungkook didn't mind adorable things and even loved them, but something about this looked like the waitress was mocking him.

"I love how they choose cups for everyone based on their impression. It's very authentic," Namjoon finally says, as Jungkook chuckles awkwardly in response and takes a piece of his sandwich, coming back to their previous topic of their families. It was very nice to chat about everything and about nothing at the same time, and even though Jungkook was only beginning to get to know Namjoon, it felt like he already knew all of that and in reality was catching up with an old friend that he parted ways with a long time ago.

"Namjoon-hyung, can I ask you something? Of course, you don't have to answer, I'm just a little curious" Jungkook suddenly says, like he was preparing to ask that a long time ago, but wasn't brave enough, and Namjoon nods at him slightly warily with a full mouth of his brownie. "Why are you wearing a scent blocker? I kinda guessed that you're an alpha, and I hope I'm not misgendering you, but you never mentioned it so..."

Namjoon faces softens immediately, as he swallows the food and takes a napkin to wipe his mouth before answering.

"You're right, honestly I just forget about it all the time," he rubs the back of his neck and looks almost embarrassed, surprising Jungkook. "Well, as I told you, both of my parents are alphas and I kinda come from a strong line, so my scent can be overwhelming to many people. And I don't want to use that as an advantage, cause it's not fair. People tend to lean towards my decision subconsciously when we work in groups and just act differently around me, you know?"

"Oh" Jungkook didn't expect that answer. When omegas with strong scents usually use scent blockers to protect themselves from being harassed by assholes, Namjoon apparently uses them to protect others and avoid conflicts with other alphas. That was certainly uncommon and very respectful, but he didn't expect less from this man, to be honest. "So... You're like the super alpha, huh?"

"Shut up" Namjoon lhalf-heartedly hits Jungkook with a smile, relieved with his reaction, because part of him still expected the younger to freak out about it - not that he didn't believe in the boy, but that happened a few times and you can never be too careful. "I don't talk much about it for the same reason. Sometimes people think that I consider myself superior or something like that." Jungkook could swear that he notices sadness in the other man's eyes and nods quietly to show that he understands him. "My pack, though, isn't very pleased with my decision, cause my scent is calming to them, and they always whine about it on weekdays."

"Wait what? Your pack?"

Jungkook interrupts him, not understanding his words at all. Packs were always a fairytale for him, something that their ancestors used to have but that was no longer happening nowadays, because people no longer had to be in groups in order to survive and provide enough food for everyone. He always loved those tales though, loved the closeness and unity that his granny told him about. Pack bongs were always a sacred thing, that was valued and respected no matter what.

"My pack. I am a pack leader, yes. Why are so surprised?" Namjoon was puzzled no less that Jungkook, but for different reasons.

"Packs don't exist any more."

"No, they do. My thetis is about them and I lead one, so I'm pretty sure about it"

"But how... How is it possible? I am, I've never heard about that, not once in my life"

Namjoon is suddenly hit with a realization, quietly looking at the lost boy in front of him. He has been studying packs, their history and specificities for so long, so could he not understand Jungkook's puzzlement, now knowing about his family and the way he was brought up. He surely has head about the decreasing number of packs in the small towns and suburbs, but never actually believed in that and didn't even think that in some families pack were an ancient history.

A notification on his phone catches his attention, and Namjoon sees the time on the screen that lit up, suddenly rushing to get up.

"Oh god, I have a lecture in like 10 minutes, so I have to go, Kookie" He comes closer to still confused boy and ruffles his hair affectionally. "I had a great time today. And I will tell you more about packs, just not right now, deal?"

"Yeah, sure," Jungkook shakes his head to focus on Namjoon's words and sends a small smile to the alpha. "I had a great time too, hyung"

"Bye-bye! I'll text you," Namjoon barely avoids his face meeting with an opening door that he was almost running towards, as he waved goodbye. Jungkook looked at the empty cups in front of him and finished his now cold coffee, far gone into his own thoughts.

Packs. That was something new.

***

Jungkook looks at his phone one more time, comparing the flat number with the one that Namjoon texted him earlier, and hesitates to press the doorbell, taking a few slow breaths to calm himself. Surely he had almost half a week to prepare for this night, not without Hoseok's help by the way, but it was still a little scary. He is an alpha, but is also a rather shy person, so jumping into a completely new company is a big step for him, especially when he knows almost no one there. The only things that Jungkook was able to get from Namjoon were that he has three packmates at the moment - Yoongi, Seokjin and Taehyung - and one packmate-to-be, Jimin, that was also going to join them today. According to him, it's no fun if Namjoon will tell the younger alpha everything, and he should see for himself.

Noticing the laugher from behind the door and some quiet music playing with his enhanced wolf hearing, Jungkook presses the bell and hears the footsteps approaching. He runs a hand through his hair to at least try to make himself more presentable the last moment before the door opens, revealing an unknown face behind it. A rather handsome unknown face that is smiling friendly to him, he must say.

"You must be Jungkook! Come on in," a stranger says welcomingly, stepping aside to let the alpha inside and closes the door behind him, while Jungkook looks around a little dumbfoundedly. 

"Hi, yes," he finally manages to remember how to speak and politely lowers his head in a bow. "Thank you for inviting me."

"Such a polite boy," the stranger coos, patting Jungkook's shoulder, and laughs, going further into a flat. "But you can drop the formalities, it's alright. The pizza will arrive soon, so let's introduce you to everyone, shall we?"

Jungkook looks at the stranger with puzzlement written on his face, since the said man didn't even introduce himself. Trying to be as discreet as possible, the alpha decides to figure out at least some information about the man, sniffing the air carefully. He is a beta, that's for sure, but Kook can't pinpoint his exact scent, since there are too many of those in the air, but he can tell it's a floral one for sure.

"Jinnie, was that pizza?" another unknown voice shouts from the living room, where apparently they were headed. So that is Seokjin, nice to know.

"Nah, better," Seokjin says with a smile, entering the room with Kook following him like a shadow, and turns to push the alpha inside by his shoulder encouragingly, while the younger looks at the rather huge room wide-eyed, like a doe.

It was hard to describe the living room with precise adjectives, but every corner and every little thing were screaming home to him for some reason. It looked like someone put a lot of love and care into decorating the space, making sure there is everything that you may need to relax, no matter what that means for you: it had everything from countless books to the newest game console near the TV. Most of the floor was covered in furry and soft-looking blankets and rags, and on top of those there was one wide couch accompanied by a couple of the biggest beanbags Jungkook has ever seen.

Four couples of eyes turn to him, making the alpha blink slowly, focusing not on the cosiness of the room, but on the people in it, while Jin goes to join Namjoon and an unknown man on the couch, jumping on his lap. Jungkook finally realizes that it's his turn to say something, so he quickly bows one more time.

"Nice to meet you all and thank you for inviting me once again."

"Told ya, he is the cutest little thing ever," Namjoon says proudly and pats the place near him, when Jungkook raises up from his bow, blushing furiously from so much attention.  "Come here, cupcake."

Shyly nodding, Jungkook sits on the couch and tenses even more, scrunching his nose in discomfort. He has quite a sensitive nose, so being this close to group of people in a room that carries their scent itself overwhelms him. Apparently others notice his struggle and decide it's better to stay quiet for a few moments, letting the alpha get used to being in a new place, which he is not doing a great job at, starting to panic slightly.

A strong hand grips his nape out of nowhere, making Jungkook flinch, and starts massaging it slowly, but he doesn't try to get rid of the grip as it miraculously helps him to calm down. The action is so soothing and familiar, reminding him of his childhood, that he just lets himself sink into the feeling. The alpha turns his head a little to see that it's in fact Namjoon, that is smiling sympathetically now, and relaxes even more into the touch.

"It's alright, dear. Entering a pack's den can be hard," Namjoon says in a gentle voice, not stopping the small massage. Jungkook blushes more, as now he is even more in the spotlight, overreacting to the smell like a pup, and covers his face with his hands from the embarrassment, leaning forward. A great first impression indeed.

"Sorry, I have a sensitive nose..." he mumbles quietly and tries to take a few deep slow breaths through his mouth, hoping it will help.

"That's a good idea, breathe through your mouth. I know you're curious, but it'll be better like that," a soft voice joins the conversation, and Jungkook peeks through his fingers at the person speaking to him. "And Namjoon is right, I struggled my first time as well. There is nothing to feel sorry or ashamed for. I'm Jimin, by the way, nice to meet you too."

Relaxing more and more with every second, Jungkook finally raises his head from his hands and the first people that his gaze falls on are the two cuddling in the beanbag, one of which was giving him advice just now. He noticed them before, but he didn't get the chance to pay much attention. The beanbag looked pretty cosy, but it seemed that it wasn't enough for the two of them, as it was covered in blankets, that were laid down in circle around the two men. How could he not realize that it was a nest? Which means that the two men are omegas, and Jimin is the omega that was in the process of joining the pack.

"Thank you, Jimin-ssi," he politely smiles and sits straight, still slowly breathing through his mouth. He tries to look as calm as he can, because he remembers that omegas are rather sensitive to distressed scents, similar to one he was probably releasing before, and he doesn't want to make people in this room more worried.

"You can call me hyung, dear," Jimin giggles and hugs the man in his arms tighter. The other omega stays quiet the whole time, but his eyes are focused on Jungkook, showing his concern silently, and it strangely soothes the alpha. It is nice to know that they don't see in him a burden that is ruining their pack night.

"Well, actually everyone in this room is 'hyung' to you," Namjoon says, as he lets go of Jungkook's nape, content enough with the way the younger calmed down. "You're the baby here."

"I'm not a baby," Jungkook responds immediately with a pout, slapping Namjoon's hand, as it is not the first time they bicker about it and his alpha's pride still doesn't let him admit that maybe Namjoon is right.

"Your adorable pout says otherwise," a small giggle comes from somewhere behind Namjoon and a head peaks out from Jin's shoulder, when both alpha's turn their heads towards the sound. Jungkook wants to continue arguing, but he doesn't know the man's name, so he shuts his already opened mouth, thinking it will be too rude. "And since Namjoon doesn't want to introduce his amazing packmates, I'm Taehyung, this is Jin on my lap and the grumpy cat that is cuddling Minnie in the nest is Yoongi."

"That's hyung to you too, brat," two offended voices say at the same time, and Jungkook figures out they belong to Jin and Yoongi, that apparently have the same argument over and over as well, lecturing the younger one on respect. He lets out a soft giggle, looking at their interactions and feels more at ease, seeing them act as they usually do apparently.

The doorbell interrupts something that seems to be a rather heated conversation, and Jin slides from Taehyung's lap on the couch, pushing him on the floor.

"Go and bring out precious pizza, that's your punishment for the disrespect," he says, as Taehyung gets up with a sigh and narrows his eyes at him, leaving the room.

"I can always run away with it"

"I know where you live, dumbass."

"Taehyungie, you're forgiven, just please come back with my pizza."

Yoongi shouts after Jin and sighs, mumbling something indistinctly, while Jimin pets his hair gently. It seems that all the packmates are quite affectionate, which explains Namjoon's behaviour more, and Jungkook wonders if it's like that in all packs, because his own family wasn't quite like that and maybe that's why. Surely he got his fair share of cuddles, when he was little, but as he grew older that was happening less often, as his father was sure it was not appropriate for a growing alpha to be pampered too much.

While Jin and Namjoon start chatting about something related to the alpha's recent studies, Jungkook uses the time to look the omegas, as he was always fascinated with their dynamics. He never in his life viewed them as weak or inferior in any way - it was quite the opposite. How can anyone think less of them, when they can bring peace to your soul in a way that other sub-genders can't and when they are capable of so many truly wonderful things, such as childbirth for example. Jungkook was truly fascinated.

Yoongi's curious gaze suddenly meets with Jungkook's one and the alpha quickly looks away, feeling the blush spread on his cheeks from being caught staring. He doesn't want to appear creepy, but something about this man seems to catch his attention, making it harder for him to look away and switch to something else. When Jimin reminded Kook of his sister, who was a rather confident and easy-going omega, Yoongi was harder to figure out. He didn't look shy or timid, but he didn't initiate conversations as well. He clearly preffered to distance himself in his safe space on the night a stranger was going to come to his home, and that is understandable, but he didn't act cold and indifferent either.

"I'm back!" Taehyung announces, entering the room with 5 carboard boxes of pizza, and dramatically bows to everyone after putting them on the coffee table. "No need to thank your saviour, just feast, my brothers."

Jungkook doesn't stop the giggle falling from his lips and Taehying playfully winks at him, opening the first box, as the others move closer to the table as well.

"I'd eat you, if you didn't bring my baby, "Yoongi rolls his eyes and doesn't even move from his cosy place, unlike Jimin, who was already putting a few slices on a small plate. Jungkook reaches to take one as well, but Yoongi's voice interrupts him.

"Jungkookie, could you pass me the pineapple one, please. The whole box."

Kook stops slowly turning to look at the man incrediously and remembers Namjoon's words, who already predicted this happening. The said man chuckles near him and passes Jungkook the box, that he mechanically gives to Yoongi, still looking at him sceptically. He wasn't the one to judge people a lot, but it didn't apply to people, who liked pineapple pizza.

"How can you like that?"

After putting a few pepperoni slices on his own plate, Jungkook finally gets brave enough to ask, looking at the omega biting into a slice of pizza and almost purring from happiness. Yoongi stops munching, as everyone in the room gets quiet all of a sudden, and looks up from his precious pizza at the alpha. Kook feels a sudden urge to start praying for his life but nothing comes.

"How can you not like it?" Yoongi asks him instead with a full mouth of food and curls more into one of his blankets by Jimin's side, almost making the alpha coo at the adorable picture. He definitely expected the man to react worse, but judging by the calmness of the other's voice, it seems like he decided to spare his life today.

"It's just wrong. Fruits don't belong on savory food."

"Have you tried it?"

"No, but-"

"Then you don't have a say in this," Yoongi interrupts him with a cat-like smile, shrugging his shoulders, as Jimin snickers near him, curiously listening to their conversation, just like everyone else in the room. "You can't judge something if you never tried it."

"Okay. Can I have a bite?"

Jungkook says without thinking much with a challenge in his voice and moves closer on the couch to the omega's nest. If he has to taste it to have the right judge, then it will be that. Yoongi raises one eyebrow but still extends his hand that was holding a slice towards Jungkook, who leans closer and quickly takes a bite just like that, making sure there are both pineapple and chicken on it for the sake of the experiment.

"I can't believe you actually did that." Jin says even more incrediously than Jungkook did earlier, as the said alpha keeps a straight face, chewing the food, like it's not a big deal.

"So it was that easy?" Taehyung exclaims, almost jumping on his feet to point his finger at Yoongi accusingly. "You. You made me keep quiet all those years about your horrendous tastes, when all I had to do is try it? Let me have a bite and I will tell you everything I think about you."

Taehyung rushes towards the nest, but Namjoon's strong arms grab him across the waist, not letting him get to Yoongi, as the man desperatelly tries to get out of the grip, looking like he will claw out the omega's face with his bare hands. Jungkook forgets to swallow for a few seconds, looking at the scene in front of him, but then a sudden realisation hits him, making his face turn pale.

"Taehyung, let him live for once, you know he is tired-"

"Nah, it was a unique offer. Y'all don't deserve my precious-"

"It's not bad." Jungkook interrupts both Namjoon's and Yoongi's words, while Taehyung stills in Namjoon's arms, turning his head to look at the alpha, that was still trying to process the collapse of his most strongers beliefs himself.

"What?"

"It's not bad. I mean, it adds a bit of freshness to the taste." Jungkook shrugs his shoulders and takes the slice that Yoongi suggests him with a devilish smile, looking at Taehyung triumphantly. He actually can't believe he is defending the thing that he hated all of his life, but he can't say it's bad either. The alpha takes one more bite and decides to tease Taehyung, that was now released by Namjoon, continuing his review. "Honestly, it reminds me of teriyaki sause a little, cause it's also sweet and savory."

Yoongi's quiet laugh is the first thing that breaks the silence after Jungkook's words and is soon followed by Jin's loud one, until everyone is giggling in some degree, except for Taehyung, of course, who comes back to his place on Jin's lap, calling all of them "traitors". Jungkook and Yoongi's eye meet for a few seconds, like they share some kind of a secret, before the alpha turns to listen to Namjoon, who decided to explain him the situation properly.

Apparently, no one in the pack before dared to actually have a bite and no one got an invitation to do so, and that's why it was a non-negotiatable topic in their household until now. Yoongi shares a few more slices with Jungkook, explaining to the younger that he never permitted any of them to do so and that is why it's their loss, and comes back into the comfort of Jimin's embrase, adding with a smirk that no one is still allowed to shame him. This becomes another breaking point for Taehyung, who starts arguing that such ignorant behaviour is the reason monarchies fall and that Yoongi should watch his back from now on, till Jin intevenes and shuts him down with a slice of pizza.

Jungkook quietly listens to everyone chat - if you can call it a chat - and smiles to himself. He thought it will be hard for him to join them today, because they were a pack and he was a stranger to them, but everyone has been more than welcoming so far and it was easy for them to get along. They felt like a family, but they didn't make him feel like an outsider. His eyes meet Namjoon's, and he can read a clear "told you" in them, making the younger giggle quietly.

***

"Hyung, where are you?" Jimin invites himself in with a key that he got not long time ago, when Namjoon officially asked him to join their pack, and shouts to figure out where Yoongi was.

"Kitchen."

The answer is short as usual, and Jimin takes off his shoes before heading out in that direction. His initiation was nearing, and they needed to plan a few things beforehand, one of which was the pack tattoo. Unlike some other packs that didn't take things much seriously, every one of them agreed on getting a symbolic tattoo that showed their belonging to this exact pack. Jimin was told that they chose one element that had to be the same collectively - in their case it was a tree - but every member had the opportunity to design their own tattoo with Yoongi's help.

When the omega enters the kitchen he is met with a rather interesting sight: Yoongi in an oversized t-shirt that probably belonged to one of the packmates, sitting on a barstool, and a kitchen island that was completely covered in paper. It wasn't hard to guess that all of those papers were sketches and designs for his tattoo, but it felt like the lead omega went a little overboard.

"What. Is that?" Jimin finally asks, coming closer, and instinctively puts his hand on the small of the other man's back, as the said man raises his head with a puzzled expression. His probably still bed hair was sticking in every direction, making him look even more adorable that usually.

"What? Ah, you mean this?" Yoongi turns to have a look at the mess he created on the table and shrugs his shoulders, looking back at the omega. "That's not even much, Jiminie, you should have seen preparations for Taehyung's tattoo... I had to re-do his like 20 times"

"Yeah, that sounds like Tae," Jimin giggles and ruffles Yoongi's hair more, leaning closer to the table to peak at the designs, but the older immediately covers everything with his hands to stop Jimin from looking too early.

"No-no, you don't get to do that yet. This is what I had in mind for you, but before that you have to look at everything else." Yoongi slides down from his chair on the floor and takes Jimin's hand to lead him to the other side of the table. His t-shirt raises up more, revealing more of the older omega's tattoos that always attracted everyone's attention. "Those are some of the sketches that I had to draw for the guys, maybe you will like something or just get inspired on the general direction we should go in."

Jimin's eyes light up with excitement, as he starts going through the sketches, trying to guess which one was who's, while Yoongi tells him the right answers with a soft smile. Tattoos were something deeply personal and intimate for Jimin, because you had to make a difficult decision on what you're going to have on your body for the rest of your life, so surely he was curious to peak at everyone's choices and thoughts, in a way. Plus Yoongi reassured the omega that it was alright and the guys didn't mind him looking at all of that.

Slowly they went through the most of them and after Yoongi made Jimin describe in details what he had in mind himself, he was allowed to have a look at the older's suggestions. The boy happily grabbed the papers and froze, when he saw the first one in the pile.

"This. Hyung, this is the one." Jimin turns to look at Yoongi with wide eyes and shows him the sketch, while the other looks at him with a puzzled expression.

"Are you sure? Don't you want to look at other ones-"

"No, I'm sure. That's exactly what I wanted, hyung." Jimin interrupts him, not letting the man to even finish the sentence, and stands his ground, looking at the design one more time.

"Okay, okay," Yoongi laughs endearingly and starts putting everything in one pile, and Jimin joins him, picking up the sketches more carefully than the other. "I thought it will take more time with you, but alright. Help me tidy up before Jin-hyung wakes up."

"Too late, love," another voice announces with a yawn, entering the kitchen with a rather displeased face. The beta is wrapped in a fancy silk dressing gown, making the rest looking underdressed, including Jimin, who was definitely dressed more appropriately than Yoongi. "Yoonie, baby, what I told you about working in the kitchen?"

"That I have a perfectly equipped room for that and that these stools are bad for my back," Yoongi mumbles the words like he had to repeat them more than once and lowers his head with guilt, fully aware of the fact that the older was right.

Jimin will never get used to the way others - except for Jin, of course, as it was pretty much expected - bossed around the second oldest member of the pack. Of course, he never even doubted their respect for the lead omega, but the way they all babied him was still hard to get used to. Even though Yoongi looked like a fluffy and soft kitten most of the time, Jimin had seen himself how this man could stand his ground and put anyone in their place without hesitation.

"Yes, and I need to have my breakfast and I can't, because you, my love, took all the space," Jin continues the soft scolding, but still comes closer to Yoongi to leave a gentle kiss on his forehead, before heading out to the coffee machine and turning it on.

"Bullshit, we're almost done," Yoongi takes the last pieces of paper and stacks them on the huge pile. Jimin highly doubts he will manage to get this to his room without losing a few on the way, but he doesn't dare to intervene, when he sees the other's grumpy posture.

"It's almost 2 PM, Jin-hyung, so it's not a breakfast."

Jimin mockingly points out, jumping on one of the stools, and half-lies on the counter, looking at the beta, who still looked pretty sleepy, making toasts. It felt so domestic to watch them do something so simple around the house, and he couldn't wait to become a part of it. Surely he already was spending a lot of time in the pack house, but that didn't mean he can't treasure these little moments.

"Breakfast can be anytime if you just woke up, don't argue with elders, you little brat." Jin glares at him expressively over the edge of his cup and puts his plate on the other side of the island, sitting down. His face softened as he took the first bite of his toast, and he continues more peacefully now. "I had a late shift yesterday, because of some big event, so I'm allowed to sleep as much as I want on my day off."

"Where is my phone?" Yoongi shouts from somewhere in the flat, followed by the rustling noises, but Seokjin only snickers into his coffee, taking the said phone from the table to shamelessly scroll through notifications on the screen.

"It's here, hyung," Jimin answers for the beta and looks at him curiously, before changing the topic. "Where are Joonie and Tae by the way?" He knew they had a little erasable board with everyone's schedules on the fridge, but he never figured out how to understand anything there.

"Class. And what the fuck are you doing?" Yoongi rushes to Jin as soon as he enters the kitchen and sees the man, trying to grab his phone, but the older raises his hand over the omega's head with a smirk and continues reading the texts.

"Ohh, Jungkookie says he likes the playlist you sent him," Seokjin continues teasing the smaller man, but finally takes mercy on him and lets Yoongi take his phone, who is now clutching it to his chest protectively, as the blush spreads on his pale cheeks. "You made him a playlist, Yoonie? Are you that whipped already?"

"Shut up." He mumbles and gives him a dirty look, unlocking his phone to read the messages himself, while Jimin reaches across the table to steal a piece of toast from Jin, curiously listening to their conversation. "He runs every morning before class, so I made him one for that."

"Where did you get his number, I wanna chat with the baby alpha too." Jimin pouts, feeling left out. The nickname was originally created by Namjoon, but it stuck, so all of them started calling Jungkook like that after meeting him themselves and getting their proof that he was in fact a baby.

"Namjoon," Yoongi shrugs, typing in a message enthusiastically, but then pays attention to the second part of the other omega's words and narrows his eyes at Jimin, looking weirdly protective. Maybe Jin was right with his conclusion, after all.

"Don't worry, hyung, I'm not gonna steal your man," Jimin laughs and stands up to cuddle the older to reassure him, while Yoongi quickly locks his phone again, allowing to be cuddled. "He is not my type, anyway. I don't like alphas much, even such adorable ones."

"Why are you even making a fuss about that? Taehyung has been chatting with him since the pack night." Seokjin wonders with a knowing smile, while Yoongi looks at him with a completely clueless expression and sighs, admitting his defeat, even though there wasn't even a competition.

"Alright... I'll send it to you. But don't bother him at 3 am, like you do with me! The boy needs to sleep properly."

Yoongi looks at Jimin seriously and points a finger at him in a threatening gesture, while he and Jin coo and laugh at his protectiveness, making the omega blush even more. It was clear as day that not only Namjoon was making advances on the younger, but Yoongi too, so everyone in the household made sure to tease the couple at least once the day. Surely everyone was happy that the pair found someone that both of them were interested in, and it was interesting to see how things were progressing.

Finally, Yoongi has enough and announces that "he is leaving their annoying asses forever" with a huff, going to his and Namjoon's room. He wasn't really offended and more flustered than anything, but he wanted to chat with the boy peacefully, without any comments from the others.

They continue chatting about Yoongi's job for a while, and Yoongi tells him that he did a lot of his own tattoos as well, because he needed to practice when he was only starting and because he just likes to be covered in ink of course. Some people may not expect it from him, because he is an omega, which is total bullshit, but among them all he was covered in tattoos the most. The second after him was Namjoon, who had a black sleeve and was planning on doing his legs as well, but didn't have the time.

Turns out, Jungkook didn't even know both of them had tattoo, because it just happened that all the times they met they were covered with clothes, so he was very excited to see them himself. Which brigthened Yoongi's mood a lot.

Namjoon and he decided that it will be damaging for whatever they are starting with Jungkook to continue hiding the fact that they are mated at this point, so Yoongi made sure to drop the bomb the first day he and the alpha started texting. That was a big step, because both of them were afraid that Jungkook will freak out and maybe even chicken out of talking to them. It's not like their conversations were heavily suggesting, but there was some flirting from both sides, and they didn't want to push the topic of possible relationship too early.

Surprisingly, Jungkook took the news pretty calmly - from their point of view - even though his responses were a little delayed, and even asked how long they were together, slowly moving the conversation towards discussing their past. He didn't say anything, when Yoongi added that they are in fact polyamorous, but their conversations didn't become weird or strained either, so he took that as a good sign. Maybe Jungkook needed the time to process everything and think about whether he even wanted to go down this road, but they still were chatting comfortably, and that's what was important.

***

Yoongi was dressed pretty casually, wearing only a pair of black jeans and a huge hoodie, that covered half of his body, making the omega look even more adorable and tiny than usual. Everything about his outfit was saying that he didn't think twice before putting it on and heading out to eat with the alpha. And Jungkook wished he could say the same about himself, but his overthinking brain decided that if he was truly asked on a last minute date, he still should look his best. That's how after a few minutes of panicking he stopped on a grey turtle-neck and simple black pants with a classy matching coat and some makeup to finish the look.

The car pulled over near a small restaurant, that looked pretty small but cosy, and both men got out of the car quietly. Surprisingly, up to this moment the silence wasn't much awkward or tense, and it felt right to just enjoy each other's company without the unnecessary words. Nearing the door, Jungkook's gentleman side jumped in, making him open the door for Yoongi to go in first, making him let out a shy giggle. The stuff seems to recognize the older, leading them to the table in the corner and leaving quickly to let them decide.

Left alone with Yoongi, Jungkook really does his best at trying to look self-assured, like a strong alpha should, as his father always told him - and he actually knew it's dumb and stereotypical, but he can't help himself, because such things are not easy to get rid of. However, his nervousness takes over anyway, making him bite his nail in thought, looking at the menu, but not actually seeing anything, while Yoongi calls the waiter over and orders for both of them and maybe even enough to take home.

Jungkook doesn't even realize, that he actually looks like a deer in the headlights, and Yoongi can't ignore it any more, taking Jungkook's hand to move it from his mouth and stop him. The alpha looks puzzled, when he pays attention to what the omega just did and that he didn't take his hand away, holding it on the table.

"Stop. I can hear you thinking." Yoongi finally says, looking him straight in the eyes. "What's wrong? Tell me, Jungkookie, I'm not a mind-reader."

Jungkook lowers his gaze under the omega's intense one, scolding himself internally for being such a mess in front of the man that he likes. It wasn't supposed to be like that, he wasn't supposed to be the one invited on a date, and he wasn't supposed to be so nervous and anxious. No, that's wrong. There isn't such a thing as "date policy", and he shouldn't follow the toxic and meaningless rules that his family pushed in him.

But it still doesn't feel right. All that flirting that was going on was nice, but Jungkook didn't understand a thing about the situation and other's intentions, and it was a little frustrating. Surely he dated before, but it was completely different from what's doing on right now. But Yoongi was right and there was only one way to figure everything out, a scary one though: he had to talk.

"I don't... I don't understand," Jungkook finally says, looking up at Yoongi, and bites his lip in thought. He desperately wants to hold Yoongi's hand to feel more comfortable and calm, but he knows it's not the time. Not yet, at least. He had to clear everything before rushing into such intimate gestures. "Don't get me wrong, I wanna be here with you. But I don't understand what this all means and what do you want from me. Both of you."

"Silly, silly alpha." Yoongi's face softens suddenly, like he was afraid to hear from Jungkook something else, something much worse than what he just said, and he even smiles, rubbing alpha's hand with his thumb.

"It means that I like you. Joonie too, but he wanted to tell you himself. And yes, romantically, if it wasn't obvious. Why else would I ask you out?"

Jungkook swears he can hear his own heart beat faster than ever, bumping into his ribs loudly. It's not too surprising, considering recent days and all the suggestive conversations that they had, but it's still hard to believe in. It's exciting and jumpy to hear that one person likes you, but two? That's just impossible.

"But-"

"Jungkook, look at me" Yoongi's stern voice stops the thoughts in his head, making the alpha look into his eyes obediently. "We like you and we plan on asking to court you, do you understand that? We just wanted to take things slow and not overwhelm you. And also to see if we're sure. But we are now."

The waiter interrupts them by bringing in their order and Yoongi laughs quietly at Jungkook's pout, when he has to unlock their hands in order to let the man put it on the table. The food smells and looks absolutely gorgeous, but the alpha is still too nervous to eat, dealing with all the information that Yoongi dropped on him.

"Just so you know, I'm not asking you to court us right now." Yoongi says with a full mouth of lamb, biting into the small skewer, like he wasn't discussing important matters a few minutes ago, and gets Jungkook's attention back to him. He rolls his eyes, when he notices the other's thoughtful face expression and puts his hand on the table. "Come on, give me your hand."

"Your hands are greasy." Jungkook seems to snap out and scrunches his nose, looking at the omega's hand. He places his own into it with a loud sigh anyway.

"Listen to me, alright? Stop thinking. Hold my hand and eat." Yoongi's words are calm and measured, as he grips the alpha's hand harder, unintendedly releasing more of his soothing scent to calm Jungkook. "We will deal with everything later. There is no rush and you will have your chance to figure everything out, alright? But now we're on a date and I want you to enjoy it."

Jungkook carefully listens to the other's words and nods quickly, agreeing with him. He almost slips into self-loathing about ruining the date for a second, but thankfully his logic doesn't let him do that, reminding that this talk was very much needed. All of a sudden a realisation hits him, and Jungkook smiles softly to himself, holding Yoongi's hand tighter. The more he listens to his hyung, the more his respect for him grows, as he sees how mature and calm he is, solving all the problems on his way with the power of words and pushing Jungkook to do the same. And how could such an amazing man fall for a silly boy like him?

"You're right, hyung."

"Okay, now eat. Or I will eat your half."

Yoongi threatens Jungkook with a skewer, making the other laugh loudly but take one of the sticks, biting into the meat. Now when everything was at least a bit more clear, the alpha could finally let himself relax and spend the time with one of his favourite people in the world, chatting about nothing and about everything at the same time. It was always so easy to let the conversation flow on its own with Yoongi, just like it was with Namjoon every time they hanged out in the little cafe they considered their at this point, and this thought suddenly made him miss Namjoon. So this is how this whole polyamory thing works, huh?

"What is it?" Yoongi notices a weird expression on Jungkook's face and looks at him curiously.

"I miss Joonie-hyung," Jungkook answers honestly and pouts, looking at the omega, who was softly smiling at him.

"Send him a pic, I bet he'll like that."

Yoongi encourages him, knowing that Namjoon will be definitely over the moon from seeing the two of them on their little impromptu date and will make the omega tell him everything in details, when he comes back. Jungkook snaps a quick pic of Yoongi still eating and spends a few minutes texting with Namjoon, giggling softly doing that, and it makes the older wonder if this is how he usually looks, texting with him.

There were so many things he doesn't know about Jungkook yet, for example how his face usually looks in the mornings right after waking up, or who was his first crush, or if he puts milk before cereal. And he can't wait to get to know them all, one after another.

Kicking Jungkook's leg under the table, Yoongi decided to use one of his most powerful weapons and pouts, whining for the younger to get off the phone and pay attention to him. And as expected, this trick never fails him, making the younger almost slam his phone into the table, looking up at Yoongi. Those alphas were so predictable. Give them a damsel in distress, and they will do anything to please her.

"Okay, did I tell you about the time when Hoseok threw a banana at me?"

***

***

Tuesdays have been Jungkook's favourite days past few weeks, because they were days of their annual coffee dates with Namjoon - as the older alpha called them, making the younger blush. Both of them were free for an hour or so, so they never missed the opportunity to hang out. Surely they would also meet on other days, if they schedules accidentally matched due to a class being cancelled, but sadly it happened not that often.

Jungkook meets Namjoon near the statue, just like they did on their first time going to their little date - which in fact can be called one, knowing the other's intentions about him - and they start chatting about the day on their way. There is a small queue in the cafe, when they enter it, so Jungkook just continues excitedly telling the other about an article he read on the way health care system is going to change to a more all-gender-friendly one soon, but it feels like Namjoon's thoughts are somewhere else.

"Hyung, are you even listening?" The alpha pouts, looking at the older man and making him quickly turn his head back to Jungkook. He's been staring somewhere for a few minutes now and it was starting to bother the younger.

"Ah? Of course, I do. Doctors wearing scent blockers at work is indeed a life changing idea."

Namjoon easily repeats Jungkook's last sentence and puts his hand on the other alpha's back, moving him forward as soon as the customer before them finishes paying for his order. The younger furrows his eyebrows, not understanding the rush, but decides not to say anything on the matter. A lady, that turned out to be the daughter of the owner, as they got to know eventually, recognizes them easily, but still checks if their order will be the same with a bright smile.

"Yes, but can you please add marshmallows on my hot chocolate?" Jungkook politely smiles back, while the young woman types something on the screen of her computer, and turns to point a finger at Namjoon, who was getting his wallet out. "Joonie-hyung, it's my turn to pay, put that away."

Namjoon stops whatever he was doing and turns to look at Jungkook, raising an eyebrow at him, and something about the alpha's gaze and posture is so heavy, that Jungkook feels like it's better to just let him do his thing without objections. There was something very powerful and something the younger never seen in his gaze, which made him back off immediately.

"Or not. You pay and I'm gonna find a place for us to sit."

"No, stay. We'll go together."

Jungkook doesn't even have the time to make the first step, because Namjoon's fingers shortly wrap around his wrist, not letting him go. Usually this touch would feel as usual, but the older's fingers press directly on the scent glad, that was there, and he doesn't have a choice but to submit, because it's what his nature tell him to do. After Kook found out about packs, he started reading more and more scientific articles about them, and this gesture was one of the things that pack leaders usually did to calm down their packmates, making them pliant, not matter what their second-gender was.

The older alpha quickly pays for their order and only then follows very lost and confused Jungkook to one of the tables, still holding onto his hand tightly.

"What was that about? Is everything alright?" He decides to ask, when they finally sit at one of the furtherest tables and the older seems to be a lot calmer now, when they are away from other people.

"Nothing."

"Hyung."

"There was one guy that kept checking you out, it made me uncomfortable."

Namjoon's answer puzzles Jungkook only more, as the alpha starts to get all fidgety and nervous again. Was he jealous? But there wasn't a reason for that, the younger didn't even notice someone staring at him. Jungkook's quietness doesn't go unnoticed by the older, and he continues explaining.

"Don't mind me, Kookie. My rut is coming soon, so my instincts are going overboard."

Right, Jungkook couldn't smell his pre-rut on him, because of the scent-blockers, that's why this idea didn't even come to his head. Namjoon's actions still looked a little too intense and over-protective, but he already explained to him that everything was like that when it came to his wolf side.

"Are you sure you're alright? I mean, doesn't my scent agitate you more, since we're both alphas?" He can't help but wonder, when it was hugely known that alphas can get too competitive around other alphas, so he needs to know if he is making it only harder for Namjoon.

"What? No, not at all. I mean, I'm not used to being around alphas much in my pre-rut, but I know it's you, so it's easy for me. It's in fact even more calming, because I can make sure you're happy and fed myself."

Namjoon explains with a soft smile and covers his hand with his own on top of the table, which seemed to be a pretty common thing in this couple. Jungkook started suspecting that it's some kind of way to reassure someone, so he didn't mind much, quite the opposite, if he was being honest.

"So... I won't see you or Yoongi-hyung in the next few days, huh?" Jungkook decides to lighten the serious mood and wiggles his eyebrows suggestively, taking Namjoon's hand in his two ones and starts playing with his fingers mindlessly.

"I still don't understand, how you can both be such a shameless brat and get flustered from the smallest things." Namjoon shakes his head with a smile. "You won't see me, but you may actually have the chance to meet up with Yoongi, if his royal ass will be willing to leave the house."

Jungkook tilts his head to the side from puzzlement, not understanding how that can be possible. Don't all mates spend their mating cycles together? He thought it was impossible to be away from your mate at those moments, that's why professors would go easy on the couples, if they warn about their absence beforehand.

"It's not like we're inseparable during out heats and ruts, cupcake" Namjoon chuckles, looking at the adorable alpha, who knew so small, compared to him, and never failed to have more and more questions about life, even if he didn't say them out loud sometimes. "It's really not my thing to talk about, but don't worry, you'll get to know about our sex life in more details some day."

Jungkook's cheeks blush furiously from Namjoon's words, like he wasn't the one to bring up the subject, so the waitress's intervention with their orders comes pretty handy. She places Namjoon's never changing jar with a strawberry milkshake - which is now more understandable, when the younger knows everyone's scents - and Jungkook's adorable cup with hot chocolate along with some sandwiches and sweets on the table. When the first awkwardness of their little dates disappeared, the younger felt it easier to get on Namjoon's nerves by stealing bits from his plates, so now they always share everything.

"So what were you saying about changes in the health care system?..."

***

When Jungkook enters the pack flat, all the lights are slightly dimmed and the soft lofi melodies are playing in the background. For some reason even the general atmosphere of this place feels cosier than ever, and the alpha lets out the breath he was unintentionally holding. He was afraid that it will be somehow awkward to hang out, just the three of them for the first time, but it turned out to be so natural he didn't even think about it much, feeling like it's one of those little café dates that he and Namjoon have or one of late night dinners with Yoongi.

Namjoon gave him a hug, but disappeared in the kitchen, when Yoongi called him, so Jungkook was left alone in the hallway to take off his shoes and a coat, which was very much needed since the autumn was becoming more and more prominent. The alpha didn't like that, used to the warmer climate, but he could do nothing about it, but to snuggle into his blankets more and wear huge hoodies. He was wearing one today as well, a pretty yellow hoodie with some black jeans on the bottom.

From what Jungkook has seen, Namjoon preferred to dress casually in his long sweatpants and a t-shirt, that seemed to be his usual home clothes, and Jungkook was already excited, because he finally had the chance to have a peak at his tattoos - he can probably ask to do so later. Yoongi's outfit is revealed to him pretty soon, when he finally enters the mouthwateringly smelling kitchen.

"Kookie! I'd hug you, but I need to finish this up"

The omega cheerfully says, chopping fresh vegetables on the kitchen counter, and Jungkook can have a proper look at him. At the other packmates told him, Yoongi really liked the lack of fabric on himself, so his revealing outfits, one of which the alpha already managed to see, were pretty often at home. Taehyung vaguely told him that even though he likes to be looked at, it's not something he does outside as well, but didn't explain why. Today Yoongi was wearing an adorable pyjama set, following the theme of their evening, with some booty shorts - again - and a cropped t-shirt that said "Let's avocuddle"

"Do you need any help?" Jungkook raises an eyebrow, looking at the suspiciously full counter, with different pots and dishes standing there. "Did you cook all of this for today?"

A dumb question, because it's obvious he did, but the alpha still couldn't believe in all of this. Yes, omegas were known for the desire to care for others that usually took the form of cooking a good meal or gifting warm clothes, but this looked a little intense.

"Nah it's alright. You can help carry the stew to the table though, I don't trust Joonie with that." Yoongi says easily, putting the diced vegetables in a bowl, while Namjoon lets out a sigh of protest from where he was setting the table.

"Don't even start, you know I will never go near your kitchen again."

"And Kookie, yes, I did it for you. You must be missing homecooked meals in your dorms, so I wanted to surprise you with it."

Jungkook can swear he notices the subtle blush spreading on Yoongi's pale cheeks, as he walks past him with a few dished in his hands, but he doesn't comment on it, walking to get the said stew, and decides to keep everything casual.

"Yah, you know I can cook right?" Jungkook places the pot on the table and tries to look offended. "I don't live of instant ramen, I promise"

"You better not be"

Namjoon threatens him with his chopsticks, before leaning to put some meat into his plate. Everyone is comfortably sat at the table, that is too big for their small group, but is probably too small for the whole pack as well, and they all start tasting everything.

"It's still not the same." Yoongi continues his thought, wiping his lips with a napkin after sucking in the noodles, which Jungkook definitely didn't stare at. "You and Hoseok are students, you cook whatever is the quickest, but that's not a proper way to make your meals. Good food needs time and love."

After that, Jungkook has really nothing to say, but the praises to the wonderful dishes he cooked, agreeing with his words. Everything about this meal said 'home', and the alpha couldn't stop thinking about those rare holidays, when all of his family was at home and no one argued, simply enjoying the time together.

They continued the dinner, light-heartedly chatting and talking about what others had missed, since it was a pretty busy week for all of them for various reasons, until everyone couldn't eat more. Jungkook volunteered to help them wash the dishes, which Yoongi couldn't say no to, looking like a proud cat that ate too much sour cream to move even a muscle, while Namjoon sat on the counter and kept him company, since he wasn't allowed to touch the dishes as well.

"Before we do snuggle, do you want to change into something more comfortable?"

Jungkook almost drops the last cup back into the sink, when Yoongi's hands wrap around him, and the said man places his chin on his shoulder. Namjoon tries to hide his snicker, but gets a splash of water anyway, jumping off the counter. They didn't mention anything about snuggling, but it seemed like it was a mandatory part of sleepovers, from the way how the omega sounded. Maybe it was a pack thing that he didn't know about.

"If you didn't bring anything, we can lend you something," Yoongi continues, since he doesn't get any answer.

"No, it's alright" Jungkook is quick to refuse the tempting offer of wearing their clothes, that carries the joint scent of the pack probably - or one of their scents in the worst case scenario. "I brought my pjs, don't worry, hyung."

"Okay, go change then, you know where the bathroom is." Namjoon smiles and ruffles his hair lightly, before taking Yoongi's hand with a smirk. "We'll be in the living room."

Visiting the flat pretty often of the course of the last weeks, Jungkook knew his way around it, even though he didn't go into most rooms, hanging out either in the living room or the spare room that soon was going to be Jimin's. Namjoon and Yoongi's room was off-limits for him, because he was sure he'll get too overwhelmed, but the omega's studio he did have the chance to visit once or twice.

It honestly surprised him how they managed to buy such a big flat with enough space even for the potential packmates, but Yoongi mentioned that Jin was from a pretty wealthy family and his and Namjoon's parents bought it for all of them together, when he was having a look around his working place. Jungkook was only allowed here, because that day Yoongi just finished a session with his client, and he was going to clean it up and sterilize everything anyway.

That's how he got to know the story behind some of the omega's tattoos, as he explained to him that in order to be doing them better you have to practice a lot. Many people practice on fruits, but Yoongi couldn't wait to work with real people, so he started with himself, using his legs. Now he covered most of the ugliest ones, but some were too funny to get rid of. That's how Jungkook also got to know that once Seokjin lost a bet to Taehyung, and they got silly matching tattoos on their asses. The omega wouldn't tell him what exactly they got, but Kook never lost the chance to tease his friend about it.

Quickly changing into his shorts, that were obviously longer than Yoongi's, and a t-shirt with a TARDIS print on it, Jungkook heads out into the living room and stops midway to the couch, shockingly looking at the tent that was hanging there. They apparently heard his footsteps, so Namjoon's head peeps out of the tent with a wide smile. The alpha doesn't even know what to think about all of this, but the older man interrupts his thoughts.

"Don't be scared, cupcake. Come on it. It's pretty cosy inside"

"What is that?"

Jungkook manages to utter and mechanically moves closer, getting under the huge white fabric. The insides of this tent look similar to how a nest should look, but he is pretty sure it isn't one, because nests were a pretty private thing and you're not supposed to be in one if you aren't very close to the omega who made it.

"A blanket fort. But better."

Yoongi smiles at him with one of his breathtakingly cute gummy smiles and Jungkook's heart melts from the sight. All the space around them is covered with blankets and pillows and there are even little fairy lights on the border of the fabric, that was hiding them from the rest of the world. Jungkook's eyes nearly water from how much effort they put into it, but he blinks quickly and stops himself from crying in front of them.

"No one ever build a blanket fort for me"

He says after a few moments and looks at the softly smiling couple with wide eyes, before Namjoon, who was sitting with his back against the couch, covered with pillows, wraps his hand around his shoulder, pulling the younger closer. Yoongi giggles and snuggles closer on the other side of the pack alpha, reaching out to pet Kook's hair, while Namjoon takes the remote and closes Youtube live with lofi beats that was on this whole time.

"You're welcome, cupcake."

Jungkook blushes from the attention and the sudden intimacy of the moment. This fort made things more comfortable and at the same time more nervous for him, but he liked how it made him feel: it was the scary excitement of something new and something big coming, that they were not rushing in, but taking slow steps into holding each other's hands. He wraps his arms around Namjoon, making sure to touch one of Yoongi's hands as well and looks up at them, now feeling more confident, even though he never participated in such cuddly sleepovers.

"What are we gonna watch?"

"I don't know. I was thinking maybe something light? Definitely no horror films" Yoongi thinks out loud and looks at Namjoon accusatory, when he gets to the point with horrors, biting his collarbone in what seems like revenge.

"Iron Man?" Jungkook speaks up shyly, to what Namjoon laughs whole-heartedly and kisses the younger alpha on the temple, because he knew for sure the other watched it too many times but never got bored of it.

"Fine with me."

Yoongi shrugs and curls into himself more after tugging a blanket over them, making sure everyone was covered, while the first scenes of the movie appear on the screen. Jungkook wishes they grabbed something to snack on, but the same moment he thinks about it Namjoon becomes a mind reader and places a bowl with chips on his lap that appeared out of nowhere, not even looking from the screen. Now the night is perfect.

***

Yesterday it all felt natural and easy, but today he is faced with the reality of it, while being the pack alpha's little spoon. Apparently at some point in the night Yoongi drifted away from his arms and curled into a small ball, still staying close, because he didn't feel his arms around himself any more, but Namjoon was quite a cuddler for sure, holding onto him tightly.

Jungkook doesn't have the time to start fully panicking, because the older seems to sense his little movements and shifts around him, slowly opening his eyes. He pulls away a bit and looks at the younger with still sleepy eyes and his hair sticking out in different directions, and it's one of the best things he has ever seen.

"Morning," Namjoon's voice sounds a bit rough from the sleep, and he seems to keep it down, not to wake up the omega. "What time is it?"

Jungkook quietly shrugs his shoulders, because he is surely not the person to ask that, squished between the two men. He quickly turns to look behind him, but Yoongi doesn't move, so they are safe. From their numerous conversations over the phone the alpha found out that no one is allowed to disturb his sleep, if they didn't want their head bitten off.

Namjoon lies on his back and stretches his hand out to grab the phone from the night table, and Jungkook can't help but stare how his toned body moves under the t-shirt and how the muscles flex on his arms. It's really not the thoughts he should be having after an innocent first night of cuddles in their bed, but the fact that Namjoon was only in his boxers from the waist down under this blanket really didn't help, adding to the picture in his head.

"We're safe, it's past noon," Namjoon whispers to him conspiratorially and returns to his original position, placing his strong hand on Jungkook's waist that looked too tiny to his liking under it.

Suddenly Jungkook realizes how close they are, staring at his plush lips probably for too long, because after a few seconds they pull into a wide smirk, and he finally moves his gaze from them to the man's eyes. This is only worse.

"Kookie"

Namjoon's hand moves on his waist lazily, playing with the hem of his t-shirt, almost like he is teasing him, and his powerful gaze never leaves Jungkook's eyes even for a second. Well, maybe only to drop back to his lips and linger there for a few moments.

"Can I kiss you?"

"Yes, please.

He really hopes he doesn't sound too eager, when he says that, even though he probably does. Well, he was trying to imagine this moment since their first non-date at the cafe, so sue him.

Namjoon smiles at him gently, making all the tension of the moment disappear, and leans in, capturing his lips with his own. His free hand travels up to cup his cheek, pulling Jungkook closer, while he gently moves his lips against the younger's. Jungkook doesn't hesitate to answer, letting the other to control the kiss, and savours every second of it.

Neither of them tries to deepen the kiss, enjoying it just the way it is, because there were enough feelings in it already, and no one wanted to spoil it with unnecessary lust. Gentle and slow kisses were special in their own unique way, and Jungkook loved how he was starting to feel light-headed from the lack of oxygen. They part only for a few seconds to take one more breath, but then gravitate to each other once again.

He doesn't know how long they lazily make out like this, but at some point the body behind them moves and grunts unhappily, before kicking Jungkook in his shin.

"I swear to God, Namjoon. Can't you keep your hands for yourself at least while I'm sleeping?"

Jungkook blushes furiously, hearing Yoongi's grumpy voice, and hides his face on Namjoon's chest from embarrassment. He wasn't even sure if it was alright for them to kiss without involving Yoongi in some way, but if the alpha initiated it meant that it's okay, right?

"Chill, Yoonie, you're making the baby shy."

It feels even more humiliating to hear them talking like he wasn't even there, so Jungkook prefers to stay where he was, hiding from everyone, until a new pair of hands appears on his waist, while Namjoon's hands move higher, stroking his back soothingly. He should get used to so many touches.

"Awe, Jungkookie, come back. I promise I won't tease," Yoongi leans closer, pressing his chest to his back, and says softly. What Jungkook is supposed to do, when he is asked so nice? Say no?

"Is it- Is it okay, hyung? That we-"

"Shh, don't worry," Yoongi interrupts him, when Jungkook finally turns back to look at him, but doesn't manage to actually do so, letting his gaze drift somewhere else. "Remember what Joonie told you? It's like you have two separate things with each of us, so it's perfectly normal to go at different paces."

The omega smiles gently and presses a soft kiss into Jungkook's cheek. It's not hard for him to understand that the comment about different paces and the location of the kiss are subtle notes for him not to rush into things with Yoongi, and he really doesn't mind that. All the half-phrases and brief mentions didn't give him a clear idea of why Yoongi took things so slow, but he was sure they would explain everything to him at some point. He was okay going with the flow and that's what mattered.

The peace and quiet of the moment is abruptly ruined by a familiar loud voice, echoing around the flat.

"We're back!"

Namjoon lets out a dissatisfied grunt, because he hoped to continue their little make out session with Jungkook after Yoongi's explanation, but someone just had to ruin his morning, and Yoongi seems to share his thoughts, diving under the blanket completely.

"What the fuck is that?" Jin's amused voice sounds from somewhere distant - and Jungkook is ready to bet that he just entered the living room - but then what sounds like determined footsteps approach them.

"Rise and shine, lovebirds!"

Taehyung slams the door open and dramatically enters the room, starling the younger. A pillow flies across the room and hits the door behind him, because the omega manages to duck quickly, not even betting an eye, like it's not his first time. Jungkook doesn't know what would be more appropriate: to unwraps himself from Namjoon or continue like he isn't shy about this whole situation at all.

"Taehyung, what did I tell you about entering our room knocking?" Namjoon sounds tired, rubbing his temples, like it's not his first time either, but the omega completely ignores him, plopping himself on the bed with them.

"What? It's not like you were fucking."

Jungkook wants to hide even more, completely forgetting about all his alpha principles, that told him to stay confident and unfazed, but stops himself from curling into Namjoon, knowing that he will be embarrassed even more.

"That's called privacy, you ass" Yoongi gets out of his hiding and slaps giggling Taehyung on the back of his head.

"So y'all are courting now, huh?" the omega shamelessly continues to bend the narrative, moving his eyebrows, while the lead omega falls on the sheets, too tired from all of this. "Lemme look at the bracelets..."

***

However, a few things had changed after all, but Jungkook would lie if he said he didn't like them. Now he could kiss Namjoon as much as he wanted. Now they were going on dates at least 3 times a week, when someone was free and was missing the other: sometimes it was grabbing lunch with Namjoon or going to an exhibition he managed to get tickets for, sometimes it was lounging at the pack house with Yoongi and cuddling on the sofa or going on long walks around the city with the older telling him about the architecture around them - turned out it was a little secret passion of his. Sometimes it was a fancy dinner for the three of them, sitting in a small booth and discussing how their week has been.

Jungkook treasured all of those little moments equally, making sure to steal something from each date - a brochure from an art gallery, a napkin Yoongi was doodling something on, a little bunny that the two made for him, combining their knowledge of origami, when they were waiting for their dinner - to put into his little memory box, that he kept under his bed. Maybe he was a sap, but he liked to have something physical, that he can take out of the box and remember certain day more easily. This little habit never failed to brighten his mood and sadly he needed that more often recently.

The exam season wasn't that close, as many of his classmates were saying to him, but Jungkook's anxious brain couldn't stop worrying. He was still thinking that him getting into this amazing university was a miracle, and he didn't want to ruin everything, he wanted to be the best and to prove everyone that he was worthy of his place here. Which resulted in the younger overworking himself as usual.

On top of numerous assignments and homework that he had to do every day, because being a chemical major came with a lot of maths and physics subjects, that he would have to write an exam on. It was undoubtedly the biggest of his problems, making Jungkook stay up late, watching lectures on Youtube to understand at least something. He didn't know how much is enough, if he was really ready for the coming exams or not, and it was stressing him out.

"Man, you look like shit," is the first thing that Taehyung tells him, when he notices Jungkook at one of the tables in the cafe and sits next to him.

The younger was hesitant to go out with him, considering the fact that he already blamed himself for spending so much time with Yoongi and Namjoon, when he should have been studying, but he just couldn't say no to them. To Taehyung, on the other hand, he could and he did, resulting in the other threatening to delete Jungkook's favourite game from the console in the pack house, if he won't meet up with him anytime soon.

"Good morning to you too," Jungkook answers grimly and shuts his laptop close, stopping working at the history essay to pay attention to his friend. He did miss him after all.

"It's 1 PM," Taehyung raises an eyebrow at him and reaches to take Jungkook's coffee to take a sip of it, scrunching his face. "How do you drink that, it's not even coffee any more with the amount of milk and sugar in it."

"I woke up at 12," Jungkook rolls his eyes and takes his cup back, downing the drink in one go. He hated strong coffee, but he needed to energy it gives, so he had to add more sugar after asking for double espresso shots in it. Sugar is good at giving at least some quick energy as well.

"I went to bed only in the morning, cause I had an assignment to finish, and while there is coffee in it, it still can be called coffee." Taehyung gives him a sceptic look, and Jungkook isn't even surprised he does. The younger wasn't used to pulling all-nighter, so the effects of it were more visible, even if he tried to cover it with extra strong concealer. "Anyways, tell me how have you been, Tae. I know I was being an ass by cancelling so much, but I really missed you."

His honesty seems to work on Taehyung, and the other softens towards him and starts excitedly showering him in recent news, while Jungkook orders one more of his disgustingly sweet coffees for himself and a black one for the older.

The biggest thing in the pack life that Jungkook had missed is, of course, Jimin's initiation. Namjoon explained to him that he can't attend it, even though he'd already been on a few pack nights, because initiation was much intimate and sacred, and only packmates were allowed to witness it. He tried bothering Yoongi to tell him what all the fuss was about, in hopes to make him spill a few things about the whole process, because he knew the head omega was soft for him, but the older didn't give in as well. "You'll see for yourself soon," was his response and Jungkook choked on the tea he was sipping because he surely didn't expect that.

Well, he was aware where this is all was going and there was no way that they will have something with Jungkook without him not being a part of the pack, but he didn't think about like that. It was all still like a dream to him, a dream that he didn't want to wake up from, because for once he was truly happy, and all of those feelings in his chest made it hard for him to breathe more often.

But for now, he hasn't been asked to join the pack yet, because the couple was set on taking things slow, supposedly noticing how overwhelmed he was already at times. At this rate, the next one to join the pack will be Hoseok, and not him, because their relationships were going very quick, unexpectedly for everyone, but no one was against, seeing how happy they were making each other. They were pretty private about their relationship, but the way their eyes lit up when the other entered the room or simply was mentioned was telling everything.

"Speaking of the devil," Jungkook blurts surprised, noticing Seokjin heading towards them, and Taehyung stops his story about the most romantic date ever - every one of his dates is called that, but the younger didn't say anything - that his mate took him on.

Once Jungkook mentioned to Namjoon how much he admires Taehyung and Seokjin's relationship, because seeing them go on dates all the time and be disgustingly sweet when they think no one sees them was giving him so much hope about the future. He told him how his parents weren't looking at each other with the same passion in their eyes, that he saw when he was a child, after years of being together, and said that it's the thing he is afraid the most. That night Namjoon told him that he will take him on dates every week until the world collapses, because he deserves them all, and Jungkook may or may not had cried a little, hearing those words. That night Yoongi kissed away his tears, pulling the younger closer, and whispered that he won't ever let something like that happen to them.

Turns out, Seokjin was on his way home from work, after finishing an early shift for some big event at their restaurant that they had to prepare everything for, but he saw the two of them through the window and decided to drop by and say hi. And hanging out with the couple makes Jungkook feel guilty, because he genuinely enjoys their company, and he feels bad for ignoring everyone's invitations.

However, he doesn't stay long with them, reasoning that Seokjin needs to rest, and they can catch up more next time. Surely, it's only partially true, because the main reason of him excusing himself is the time, because he still needs to finish that essay and then start preparing for the exams, as Namjoon asked him out tomorrow, so he has to work extra hard to compensate all the hours that he isn't studying. He might have to pull one more all-nighter.

***