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Save Me. (Yoongi x Reader) PART 7.

“It swallowed me, this lunatic. Please save me tonight. Within this childish madness, you will save me tonight.” - [“Save Me” - BTS]

Summary: It was an unprecedented love that bloomed within the halls of your high school, until secret words were overheard, and shattered the budding romance. It changed your life forever, leading you down a path you had never thought you would be on– training to become a secret agent. You chose it to escape Yoongi and the results of how things ended between you two, but as fate would have it, that very same choice ended up leading you right back to him. Will you be able to save your clients and solve mysteries together despite your history? Will you be able to save each other? Will you able to save yourself…from yourself?

Yoongi x Reader (ft. Jin & all the other BTS members)

Secret Agent AU

Mystery, Action, Angst, & Fluff (contains some violence, mentions of murder, death, harassment, and bullying)

PARTS: Prologue | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 (Finale) | Bonus: The Letter

A/N: Sorry for not updating sooner everyone <3 Thanks for your patience xD Apparently my free weekend, ended up with an impromptu random family friend of my dad’s inviting themselves over to our house, so we have to go tour them around today (sigh). So I banged out this update x_x and I wanted to post it right away! I’ll probably be answering messages and inboxes during the long car ride. I can’t wait! I missed you all! Enjoy :)

The entire crowd reacted with a mixture of gasps and squeals.

"Um... give us a second." You chuckled nervously.

You tugged at Yoongi's hand, turning him towards you, and whispered frantically, "What do you think you're doing?"

"You can't go with him." Yoongi stated.

"Why not?"

"What if he's... you know?"

"All the more reason to go with him!" You argued.

"Absolutely not. He could take you to some secluded area and--"

"We're not doing this right now, Min Yoonji." You hissed.

"I got this. Don't worry."

"What do you --"

"We both have dates already. That's why." Yoongi turned around, displaying his brightest smile.

Surprisingly, there was a collection of disappointed "Aww's" from the crowd, to which you raised an eyebrow towards them questionably.

"Oh, I had no idea." Prez smiled warmly. "Boyfriend?"

"Um...just an old friend." You blushed, making it up as you went. "I didn't think anyone would ask me at first...so I had asked him to come along..."

"Too bad." Prez chuckled. "Definitely save a dance or two for me then."

"I'm so sorry." You handed the flowers back, a bit disheartened. But Prez wrapped his fingers around yours and nudged the flowers towards you.

"Don't be. These flowers were yours regardless of your answer. I've been wanting to give you something like this for awhile now." he smiled warmly.

You couldn't hide your giddy grin. "I love them."

Prez's stare lingered on you for a few more seconds than Yoongi liked, but he held it in because your expression of absolute happiness and gratefulness hindered him from acting selfishly. Who was he to stop your face from looking like that? All the while, he was slowly being reminded of all the things he didn't do for you. Why had you stayed with him for so long back then?

"I'll see you around, Y/N." Prez waved and the crowd dispersed with him.

You continued to play around with the flowers lovingly, while Yoongi was submerged in his own vortex of dark thoughts. You noticed his peculiar silence and looked up to catch him with his concentrated, blank expression, which always meant he was thinking too hard about something.

"Yah." You poked his forehead. "Why did you skip practice to come all the way here?"

He blinked and glanced at you in front of him. "I just...I just..."

I was jealous and selfish.

The words fell dull at the tip of his tongue.

"You were right anyway." You shrugged, buying his fake excuse for stopping you earlier. "It's probably for the best I didn't get carried away with my desire to go to a dance with a date for once."

Yoongi shut his eyes. He was supposed to have asked you back then, but you two had broken up before the dance, then you had completely disappeared from his life soon after.

"Do you not feel good?" Your hand was at his forehead. "Let's take you to Mr. Park."

Yoongi nodded, willing to use any lame reason to have all your attention on him for any amount of time.

"You really must not be feeling well. You're not making any snarky comments. Come on." You held onto his hand. "Ji-- Mr. Park wanted to talk to us anyway. This is perfect."

Yoongi clasped your hand tighter, reveling in the feeling once again. He needed to pull himself together. No good can come from his clouded mind, especially with a mission as dangerous as this one.

Just for a little while. Just for a few moments. He wanted to be Min Yoongi and Y/N. Not secret agents. Not students. Not anyone, but yourselves.

But this would have to suffice for now.

You knocked brightly on Jimin's office door, despite the sign reading "Do Not Disturb". But if you knew Jimin, he had installed cameras to monitor the outside of his office and was doing so at the moment.

"Y/N. Yoonji." He welcomed you two in fake pretense, in case anyone passed by. "Thanks for coming. How're your injuries from the incident?"

As soon as the door shut though, Jimin's demeanor turned grim. It sent shivers down your spine, and apparently Yoongi's too because he tightened his grip on your hand, pulling you closer.

"This mission is a lot more complicated and dangerous than we had anticipated." he solemnly stated.

"Why?" You were surprised your voice had come out as an audible whisper, frightened from Jimin's statement and aura alone.

"Sit." Jimin sighed as he returned behind his laptop. "I've been doing what I do best, and trying to hack for more information.

"And?" Yoongi questioned.

Jimin stared at you two intently. "There's much more at work here than we've dared to imagine. There are much more secrets that we have yet to uncover, and I have a terrible feeling that the more we know, the deeper we get into the heart of this corrupted school. And I'm afraid that it'll be too late to escape or turn back once we pass that point."

"And is that point right now?" You replied.

"Perhaps." Jimin pursed his lips. "Perhaps it is the crux or perhaps it's merely the surface."

"Then let's get on with it." Yoongi urged. "Escaping or turning back was never an option anyway, so let's ram this thing full force."

You snorted. How very much like Yoongi to say that.

Jimin nodded, "I do have to remind you two that this is probably one of the reasons why this case has been branded as one of the highest level missions given to the agency, and that our mission was never to engage but to gather intel and narrow down suspects in order to help more seasoned agents get rid of the murderer." "And I have to remind you, Park Jimin, that Y/N here never listens to a damn thing regarding rules anyway, and our break time is limited." Yoongi glanced at the clock.

"Speak for yourself." You rolled your eyes.

Jimin nodded and turned his desktop around.

" Each of the staff members has been involved in some...questionable events, which, needless to say had been removed from their backgrounds."

Your eyes glanced at Jimin, surprised. "Jin too?"

He nodded. "Details were hard to find on it, but I found records that he was involved in an assault & battery case. His family is wealthy and so were the others involved, so they were able to sweep the crime under the rug and out of their public records. As is the case with the rest of the staff members of course."

"Assault and battery...?" You mumbled.

"And the others?" Yoongi encouraged.

Jimin clicked his mouse, "I've sent this compilation to Namjoon, but figured I'd debrief you two in person then delete it completely. These masterminds are smart, and they seem to have many eyes. We can't have this lying around for the taking."

"You must think highly of this...these people." You muttered.

"I'm frightened of them, Y/N." Jimin stated as a matter-of-factly. "I don't think highly of them at all, but their skills are undeniable. To pull those intricate murders, to plan them, in such a crowded facility, and to have gotten away with it FIVE times, leaving us still running around in circles with no legitimate leads...I'm terrified of the kind of people they are and what else they're capable of."

You remained silent, and let Jimin proceed.

"The Principal has numerous connections with convicted embezzlers, who have since been put on death row. It may be possible he still has many more or has made new ones, seeing as how you two spotted him having a secret conversation after hours in the school." Jimin clicked to the next slide. "Why would that be motive? Well, the more the murders happen, for whatever the reason, the family of the victims supposedly donate more money to the school to keep things hushed. But...none of the money has been seen or used. If the network of embezzlers is in on this crime, they could be sharing the flood of cash from these wealthy families."

"But would he risk damaging the school's reputation?" You questioned.

"If he doesn't get caught, then he'll just look like a terrible principal. People will pity him rather than blame him." Yoongi responded. "Although, if this never gets out to the public, then nothing will change about this school's rep."

"Next, the Vice Principal comes from a family of soldiers who supposedly died during battle." Jimin explained.

"Supposedly?" You hummed.

"With further research, they actually returned from war, but each of them never made it home. No one knows if they're actually alive and in hiding, or if they had been murdered and never found. The army wasn't sure what to tell the family, so they just told them they died during battle."

"But how is that relevant to this?" Yoongi asked.

"Well..." Jimin stated. "...she could be the murderer since she's done it before, or she found out that the government had been hiding these deaths from her all these years, and wants revenge. What better way to get revenge than by targeting the families of government officials?"

"Did they all have family in the government?"

"Haven't gone that far into it yet." Jimin sighed. "But it's an avenue I'm looking into."

You smiled and patted Jimin's hand. "You're working hard."

He shot you a tired yet lop-sided smile. "We all are."

"So just bang out the facts. We'll be here forever if we keep debating each one." Yoongi hurried.

"Right." Jimin nodded. "Some of them have no possible motive or connection just yet, but I kept it on there because they were involved in or witnessed deaths in peculiar ways. But just seeing these hidden backgrounds give me the shivers when I'm around them now."

"We need to be extra careful not to make it obvious we think any differently of them after this." Yoongi glanced at you two seriously.

"We know." You urged Jimin to continue.

"The Secretary was involved in a peaceful protest, which ended up in an all-out shooting, and she was one of the few people who survived. As you've mentioned to me before, the Counselor's brother was mutilated in a very bad gang fight, and his parents also died suddenly when they were younger. The Nurse, which we've heard rumors about, had actually cheated on the Gym Teacher, while he was cheating on his own wife with her. She had a lot of affairs with people of power in the past. She was always playing a dangerous game, and who knows if that was what came around to bite her in the end. The Science Teacher, as mentioned by the Secretary, had lost a daughter recently. But unrelatedly, he used to work at a human experimenting research facility --"

"A what?" You blinked.

"Human experimenting research facility..." Jimin repeated.

"As in...experimenting on humans?"

Jimin nodded.

"Like...ethically?"

"It wasn't publicized, and it was disbanded. But nonetheless, he participated in some questionable studies and research. And who knows if they carried it out following appropriate guidelines." Jimin frowned.

You shivered and pulled your blazer around you. You had always thought the Science Teacher was a decent man, but this just terrified you, the duality of reality and appearances.

Yoongi nodded, urging Jimin to move forward, keeping his eye on the clock.

"The English Teacher came from abroad after being kicked out of her family's house when she was old enough, because she was an illegitimate child. She still strongly sought out being the heir of the corporation, but then they disowned her so she couldn't even say she was part of the family. We're unsure why she was so intent on being the heir. Money may have been a motivation or maybe it was the power. We're not really sure.

But then she eventually found her real mother who married into an even richer family and they welcomed her in. Nonetheless, she has a constant need to feel wanted and attractive. Probably stemming from her childhood trauma of abandonment. It may be that the killings are based off those who threatened her current status or who denied or rejected it.

Possibly a stretch, but why I bring this whole background up is because the Music Teacher lived in the same exact places the English teacher did. It was incredibly eerie to the point that I have a bad feeling that he's been following and stalking her all these years. During the staff party, I could definitely see his immense obsession with her. Although she seems unaware that he's been with her for years now..."

"That is extremely creepy." You frowned. "But if he's so obsessed with her...why would that be related to the murders?"

"It's not. But I couldn't just overlook it." Jimin sighed. "There are two or more accomplices in this case, and it seems the Music Teacher can be easily swayed if someone were to bait him with the English Teacher or if the English Teacher asked for favors herself."

"Good point..." You hummed.

"The Librarian was rumored to have had a miscarriage last year as you said the Secretary mentioned."Jimin moved to the next slide. "It turns out that she actually had gotten an abortion and lied about it."

"What? Why would she?" You questioned.

"My question exactly, so I dug further back and found that she had a child when she was younger, but couldn't take care of it. She abandoned the child years ago and even went so far as to try to kill it. No one knows what exactly happened to the child, but it seems that the Librarian either has a fear of having children or the guilt of abandoning her first child is still haunting her that she doesn't want another."

You glanced at Yoongi and frowned.

"Which brings me to the last person I did a deeper background search on: The Student Council President." Jimin typed into his keyboard. "And I found nothing. His records are clean...too clean. It really seems like he came out of thin air. No history about his family, his previous education, nothing. The only thing I know is from word of mouth from the students and teachers. I've learned the Student Council President has an oddly close relationship with the Librarian, AND..."

"And?"

"He was the only known friend and confidante of the 2nd victim -- his Vice President."

"So is he the culprit or is he seeking revenge?" You whispered.

Jimin shook his head. "Who knows? But this just proves even more that this assignment is highly dangerous, you two. The fact that these people have enough power to clear these incidents from their records is an indicator alone, but the reality that they were involved in such sketchy events despite how they act upfront shouldn't be taken lightly. We need to be on our toes from here on out."

"Do you think someone pushed for the dance because they have a plan?" Yoongi asked.

Jimin nodded, "I'm 100% positive that something will happen."

"Speaking of which and on a lighter note," Yoongi tapped on the table. "We just told the school that we have dates for the dance already."

Jimin snorted. "Sorry hyung. I can't be your date. I'm a staff member, although I'm quite flattered."

"No, you idiot!" Yoongi hissed. "Contact Hoseok and Jungkook. They're going to be our dates."

"I don't have to contact them." Jimin laughed.

"Why?" You tilted your head.

"Ever since the intrusion incident, they're always around." Jimin grinned.

The two emerged from the shadows without a sound.

"Namjoon wants them to always keep an eye out for us. He felt that if something unexpected happened, it might be too late if we call for back up if they're elsewhere." Jimin explained.

"As expected of our Brain." You smiled.

"I'll take Yoongi to the dance ~" Hoseok playfully hugged his best friend. "I'll make it seem like he actually has a decent dancing bone in his body."

Yoongi tried to shove him off, but to no avail. "I don't want you! I'll take Jungkook!"

You walked up and extended your hand towards the quiet member. "Would you mind going with me to the dance, Jungkook?"

The younger blushed and shook his head as he grabbed your hand. "I'll go with you."

You grinned.

"That's long enough!" Yoongi sliced his hand to cut your handshake apart childishly.

"Speaking of which, you two really need to be careful." Hoseok chuckled. "A lot of students think there's something ...more happening between you girls."

You blushed. "What??"

Hoseok grinned. "Like how Yoonji's always so protective over you. How you're always glued together. How Yoonji only really smiles and looks soft and comfortable when you're around--"

Yoongi covered his friend's mouth and pulled him into a headlock. "What nonsense are you spouting?!"

"It's what the other students are saying." Jungkook muttered. "We hear a lot through the pipes."

You giggled. "Do you stay in the ceiling all day?"

"Sometimes. But we often eat here with Jimin while monitoring the school through the camera system." Hoseok easily pried himself out of Yoongi's grip and replied.

"So you follow us around like creeps?" Yoongi nudged Hoseok.

"We split up most of the time. We're not here to babysit you trouble makers." Hoseok shoved Yoongi away playfully towards Jungkook, who pushed him in good fun. But Yoongi ended up on the ground from his unmatched strength.

He coughed, "Yeah, I forgot this child has the strength of the Hulk."

Jungkook beamed at the compliment.

"Anyways, you two need to get back to class. Here are late passes from me." Jimin handed them cards. "And remember to be careful. Especially you, Y/N. Lots of eyes are on you."

"Me?"

Hoseok, Jungkook, and Jimin nodded. You glanced at Yoongi, who simply sighed.

"I told you, you just attract danger." he ruffled your hair as you scrunched your face.

"I guess I chose the right career then." you retorted.

"We'll meet up to shop before the dance, my love ~" Hoseok playfully called out, earning a glare from Yoongi. "We have to match!"

Yoongi grumbled as he reached for the door.

You glanced back before the door opened. The two disappeared silently, and Jimin was already deleting the compilation, concentratedly.

"Thank you guys." You smiled.

Jimin glanced up. "Let's solve this together and go home, Y/N."

You grinned and nodded. "Let's."

"Have you picked out a dress yet, Y/N?" Braids brightly sat beside you.

"Um no...not yet. " You chuckled. "Haven't thought too much about it."

"We're going this weekend if you want to come with us!" Braids clapped. "Everyone's been really wanting to spend time with you!"

"Me?" You raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

"Well, like you're cool now, and they want to get to know you better outside of school, you know." Braids twirled her hair.

"Sorry, she already promised to go dress shopping with me." Yoongi stepped up.

You had to control your laughter by turning your head and coughing. You never thought you'd hear that coming out of Yoongi's mouth. It was incredibly amusing.

"Ooo ~ where are you going? We're going to a pretty famous unique store."

"Us too." Yoongi shrugged. "My date's sister owns a pretty famous shop."

Your eyes lit up. Hoseok's sister, Dawon, was incredibly beautiful and talented at fashion-related things. Although you sometimes wondered how much she knew exactly about her brother's job. She often provided your team clothes for various missions without much question. But this was the first time you would venture into her shop. But you remembered her being feisty, outspoken, and passionate, whenever you and Yoongi would spend time at Hoseok's house back in high school.

"Oh right! Do you have a picture of your date? Is he cute? Are you a thing?" Braids began rambling.

Suddenly, the bell rang and Jin waltzed in, as handsome and breathtaking as ever.

"I know. I know. The dance is coming soon and you're all excited, but that doesn't mean you can forget about your upcoming exams." he scolded.

The class groaned as they settled back to their seats.

Braids raised her hand, "Mr. Kim!"

"Yes?"

"Are you going to the dance with a date?"

Jin flustered, and for a split second, your eyes connected to each other's before it flitted back to Braids. You felt your heart flutter briefly at the contact.

"What're you talking about?" Jin laughed, waving the thought away lightly. "I have to keep an eye on you rowdy kids. I can't bring a date!"

"Will we see your iconic traffic dance again this year though?" One of the students called out.

"Of course!" Jin grinned. "That's why you all should come, alright?"

Yoongi kicked the back of your chair, and you ignored him, knowing that he was alluding to Jin being suspicious in wanting everyone there. But you didn't think there was anything cynical in his desire.

"Y/N." Your eyes were pried away from staring outside the window, lost in your own thoughts. You didn't even realize you were still in class. Glancing around, everyone was packing up. Time had flown.

"Y/N."

You looked up to find Jin hovering above you, standing tall in front of your desk. Hurriedly, you stood up.

"Mr. Kim! Sorry!"

He shook his head and chuckled. "I just wanted to see if you were okay."

"I'm fine. Thanks for asking." You smiled.

"Well, good. So there's no excuse for you to have zoned out during my entire lecture." he chuckled.

You blushed.

"Did I bore you?"

"No! Sorry! I just had a lot on my mind." You mumbled.

Jin poked your forehead. "You always worry too much, Y/N. Live a little."

Your eyes widened and looked up at Jin grinning at you. It was something that he had always told you in high school.

"Well, before you leave, please wake Ms. Yoonji." Jin glanced behind you, and you found Yoongi was, in fact, sound asleep. "Have a pleasant weekend. You can reach me if you have any questions about what you missed."

"Thank you, Mr. Kim." You bowed.

He shook his head. "Not at all. See you, Y/N."

You glanced at the door to find Braids watching you before disappearing into the hallway. Blinking, you hummed to yourself then proceeded to shake your partner.

He jolted and grabbed your wrist tightly as a reflex. Immediately, you pulled out of his lock and flicked his forehead.

"Yah."

He groaned. "Oh, it's just you."

"Yes...but this isn't our dorm, so get up." You scolded.

Yoongi stretched and yawned. "That was a good nap."

"It always amazes me how you still get one of the highest grades with that attitude." You swung your bag around your shoulder. "Let's go sleepyhead."

"Incoming."

You both heard Hoseok in your ear, and you and Yoongi stilled, bracing yourselves.

"Mr. Park! What do you mean you have a date? WHO??"

Jimin scurried into the classroom with the English teacher right on his tail.

"Just go with me English Teacher!" The Music Teacher was not far behind.

Jimin shot you a pleading look.

Yoongi coughed, gaining their attention. The English Teacher hurriedly let go of Jimin's arm, and they all stepped away from each other.

"Hello kids. What're you doing still in the classroom?" The English Teacher flashed a charming smile.

"We were just on our way back." You smiled. "Thank you for helping me out with my injuries, Mr. Park. I feel much better."

Jimin approached you. "It's my job. No problem."

"What color will you and Officer Tae be wearing to the dance?" You grinned.

Jimin's eyes widened and Yoongi chuckled.

"I-um-we...we haven't decided..." Jimin mumbled, not expecting this course.

"Wait...you're...you're..." The English Teacher stammered. "You like Officer Tae?"

Jimin blushed, "Um well..."

Through your earpieces, you could hear Hoseok cracking up hysterically.

"Oh right, Mr. Park. You still have to help me with my wounds. You think we can do that now before I head to my dorm?" Yoongi stood up and gestured towards the door.

"Yes of course." Jimin beamed. "Let's go!"

You trailed after the two, keeping a curious eye on the expression of the teachers. The English teacher looked distraught while the Music Teacher looked quite pleased, staring at her longingly from behind. You were a bit worried about her well-being if she were to go with him. And who knows if her desperation to go with Jimin was out of fear of the Music Teacher rather than desire to have a trophy date?

You looked down, not knowing how to help her or if you really could do anything in the first place. Most likely, nothing would justified until something happened with the Music Teacher. Then you furrowed your brows, recalling something that Prez had discussed with you awhile ago regarding this topic. But your thoughts were interrupted.

"Oh Y/N!" Librarian's voice was heard in the hallway. "Dear, I'm glad I found you."

"Hi!" You bowed.

"Here. Prez asked me to give this to you if I couldn't find him before the end of the day. He had left it with me when he rushed to find you during the incident." she handed you a novel.

It was another copy of "And Then There Were None".

"Why me?" You blinked as you cradled the book in your grasp.

"He said you'd probably see him more than I do him. And he trusts that you'll keep his copy safe." Librarian shrugged. "Please see to it that he gets it. He really cherishes that book."

"Why?" You asked.

Librarian smiled sadly, "It probably contains precious memories."

"Memories?" Yoongi blinked.

The Librarian nodded, "Its original borrower was the late Student Council Vice President, one of the victims."

Your eyes widened.

"Well I have to get back to the library. Take care!" the Librarian waved and scurried down the hall.

"Y/N." Yoongi grabbed your wrist, knowingly. "I'll go with you whenever you return it to him, okay?"

You looked at his face, completely serious. You knew he was worried so you nodded. You'd just return the book in the presence of Yoongi, but the next time you and the Prez saw each other alone, you knew you had a lot of questions for him.

Hugging the book close to your chest, you followed Jimin and Yoongi with your heart racing frantically. Was there something inside this book that no one else was supposed to see? And why did Prez trust you of all people?

The weekend came soon enough, and you and Yoongi walked into the newest shop in town in search of dresses.

"Y/N!" Dawon, Hoseok's sister, greeted you warmly. "It's good to see you!"

She did a double take at Yoongi, still dressed as a girl beside you, and shook her head. "Yoonji."

Yoongi waved his hand nonchalantly. "Yo."

"Oh my gosh. They're so hott." You heard familiar whispers around the store.

"Oh. A lot of people from your school have been here for this big dance." Dawon chuckled. "This is my newest store so I'm here more often than my other branches. You're all lucky."

"You're a lifesaver." You smiled as you looked at Yoongi.

It would've been worrisome to have someone discover his actual gender.

"I'm used to cleaning up after these two." Dawon snorted. "Your dates are waiting for you. You should join them before the fan girls start crowding."

You giggled as you glanced at where Hoseok was skimming through dresses with a rather terrified Jungkook glued behind him.

"Let me help a few of the girls here first, then I'll get to you. So sit tight."

"Thanks. We appreciate it." You bowed.

"Hobi! Your date's here! Show them around." she called out.

Hoseok perked up and shot you and Yoongi one of his radiant smiles.

"Y/N? Yoonji?" Braids appeared out of the oggling crowd of girls. "What a coincidence!"

"Was it really?" Yoongi snarled.

You elbowed him and waved. "Hey!"

"Noona!" Jungkook hurried to you, visibly relieved.

"My Yoonji ~" Hoseok enveloped Yoongi in his arms. "You're looking as beautiful as ever."

"I swear, Hoseok. I'm going to kill you." Yoongi hissed, but Hoseok merely cackled at his non-threatening comment.

"Rough time, huh?" You whispered to Jungkook, who simply nodded.

"I didn't know you two were going shopping here today. We could've walked to town all together." Braids approached your group curiously. "Are these your dates?"

"Um yeah." You smiled. "This is Jungkook."

Jungkook gave her a shy nod.

"And I'm Hoseok." Hoseok extended his hand amiably.

Braids blushed and shook his hand. "Well, it truly seems like these two attract handsome males wherever they go."

"Oh, you wouldn't believe." Hoseok snorted.

"Well, we're going to look around." You cut off the small talk. "Have a good time dress hunting!"

"I've found mine already." Braids beamed. "I knew it was meant for me as soon as I put it on."

"Yayy ~" Yoongi sassed, and you hit him lightly.

"I can't wait to see it." You smiled as you nudged Jungkook to start walking away.

"We'll probably be trying it on in a bit to get measurements done, so you can!" Braids clapped. "I want to know what you think! And I want to see yours too!"

You nodded, "Definitely. It's always nice to get another girl's opinion on outfits. Yoonji isn't very helpful."

"No." Braids giggled. "I heard she wasn't. But entertaining nonetheless."

Yoongi grumbled.

"The student in braids. It's your turn!" Dawon called out.

"See ya in a bit!" she smiled and scurried away.

"I vote a short dress for Yoonji." Hoseok grinned. "His legs are the most convincing asset."

"You're all just loving this, aren't you?" Yoongi crossed his arms.

"Yep." You, Hoseok, and Jungkook answered.

"Maybe we should go with a happy color?" You hummed as you perused the selections with the help of Jungkook.

"What are you going for?" he asked.

"What do you mean?"

"Like do you want to 'wow' people or be comfortable?"

"I'd like both." You grinned, and he chuckled.

It hadn't even been a few seconds since you separated when you heard Hoseok and Yoongi arguing a few racks away.

"It's too frilly, Hoseok. No."

"But I like frills! Very feminine!"

"I want black!!"

"How about orange?"

"BLACK!"

"But orange!! We have those matching orange track suits. It's like our color of love ~"

"GET AWAY FROM ME!"

"Hoseok. Yoonji." Dawon hissed from across the store. "This isn't your playground. If you want to argue, go outside!"

"Sorry..." the two mumbled.

You and Jungkook looked at each other and giggled.

"How about this one?" Jungkook reached out for simple emerald green halter dress with a high-low skirt.

"It's gorgeous." You were breathless.

Jungkook smiled enthusiastically; proud that he had selected something good.

"Want to try it on?" Hoseok appeared. "Noona reserved a special changing area for us. I can take you there."

"Please." You smiled. "Did you two compromise on something?"

"Red." Hoseok held up a dress. "Close to orange but dark enough to be close to black."

Yoongi rolled his eyes.

"Let's get you two changed then. This way." Hoseok led them to the back to a secluded changing area. "This is usually for bridal changes by the way, but luckily, there weren't any booked today."

There were two big changing rooms, and leading out of that room was an extravagant platform to show off your dress. Happily for the two, there was a couch for them to relax in while waiting.

"We'll be right out there. No funny business here, you two." Hoseok smirked.

You and Yoongi blushed and averted your eyes away from each other.

"Like I'd try anything." he mumbled.

You hurried into the closest changing area while Yoongi took the other. There was complete silence except for the sounds of zippers and buttons being undone. It was unnerving...the fact that you two were changing beside each other.

"I'm done." Yoongi sighed. "Just long enough to hide my underwear."

"You might have to wear briefs." You snickered. "I'll lend you some spanks."

"Yeah if you want my balls to combust."

You struggled to get the zipper all the way up the center of your back for a few minutes.

"You need help? You're taking awhile?" Yoongi questioned.

Your cheeks warmed. "Um...if you could...I can't zip myself all the way."

"Um...sure. Come out." You could hear the nervousness in his voice.

You stepped out to see him in a short red dress, in which the skirt fluffed out like a trimmed ball gown. And he wore a red bow clip on his wig, probably courtesy of Hoseok. You bit your lip to prevent yourself from laughing as you studied him.

"Don't even." he hissed as he fixed his dress.

"It actually really looks good on you. You're like Snow White!" You complimented.

"I don't know how to take that." he hummed as he circled behind you.

You glanced at the mirror to watch him as he carefully zipped you up, trying his best not to touch your bare skin. Your lips curled up.

"We look like Christmas."

He chuckled as he stepped beside you. "Celebrating the wrong season, huh?"

You admired yourself in the mirror. It hugged the right curves and the color accentuated your skin tone well. It was beautiful and surprisingly, the length of the dress fell right below your ankles, meaning with heels it would be perfect.

"You look beautiful."

Your heart flipped as you caught the gentle way Yoongi was gazing at you from his reflection in the mirror. The sincerity in the tone of his compliment was undeniable as well.

You couldn't help but smile.

"Thanks."

"We should head out." Yoongi gestured. "Who knows if those two went to sleep or something?"

"Are they out yet? Are they out yet?" You both heard Braids voice in the room.

"Sorry Hoseok. They kept asking about those two. Apparently something about everyone idolizing the two of them." Dawon shrugged.

"It's fine." Hoseok laughed. "Are you guys done?"

"Coming!" You called out.

"I'll go first." Yoongi stated as he trudged forward. "You have more of the wow factor."

Yoongi waltzed out, nonchalantly barefooted, as Jungkook and Hoseok tried to hold in their giggles at seeing him like that.

"Why didn't you get them shoes, Hoseok?" Dawon bellowed.

"How was I supposed to know?" Hoseok laughed.

"Flats please." Yoongi requested. "And heels for Y/N."

"I'll be right back. Don't move, Yoonji." Dawon ordered.

"Can I at least sit on the couch?"

"Don't. Move."

Hoseok giggled, "You're on her turf. Don't test her."

"Red looks SO good on you Yoonji!" The girls gushed. "And the short dress is so cute!"

"Um thanks." Yoongi scratched his neck shyly.

"Okay, here. Black sandals. Much like your soul." Dawon commented.

"Ha-ha." Yoongi responded dryly as he slipped them on, but you giggled in the back.

He glared over at you as you peeked out to see how the sandals looked on him.

"Here's Y/N's shoes. Can you help her get into them?" Dawon smiled as she handed him beautiful silver heels.

Yoongi nodded and made his way back to you.

"Sit." he ordered.

"I can--"

"I'll help." he stated.

You knew he would keep arguing so you sat down on the bench in your changing room. Yoongi knelt down and slipped the gorgeous heels onto your feet gently as you watched him in awe.

"Perfect fit!" he beamed and jumped up. "Can you stand?"

He reached his hands out and you took them without hesitation-- to help you get up easily of course.

His eyes took you in completely. You were absolutely beautiful. And lately, he had constantly been kicking himself for not letting you feel as such when you were together.

"You should get this." he squeezed your hands, smiling at the sight of his bracelet around your wrist.

"Is the dress nice?"

Yoongi shook his head. "You look gorgeous in that dress."

You averted your eyes, "Stop joking."

"I'm not." he laughed then urged you towards the platform. "Nowgo show off. I'm sure no one wants to see me again."

"You should probably let go of my hand first... unless you want to come out with me." You looked down, amused.

He hurriedly released you, flustered. "Right. Go forth!"

You giggled and strutted towards the platform confidently. Getting compliments from Yoongi were rare, so you felt revived that he had given you a few all because of one dress. You grinned and stepped out.

"Wowww." Everyone exhaled.

"You HAVE to buy that dress, Y/N!" Braids clapped. "It was MADE for you."

Dawon grinned widely, "Did Yoonji approve too?"

"Yeah." You blushed.

"Who picked it out?"

"Kookie did."

"Jungkook? Wow. I'm impressed." Dawon gave him the thumbs up. "It really fits her. Stay still so I can measure you. We may need just a little trim, but not too many alterations."

She pulled out her measuring tape from her pocket and got to work.

"Y/N, you're so gorgeous! You're like so perfect." the group of girls were cooing and praising you non-stop. It began feeling excessive and over-bearing. You shot a pleading look towards Jungkook, who nodded.

"Um...Hoseok hyung, why don't we chat with everybody outside while they get fitted?" he suggested.

"Sure. Let's all go?" Hoseok understood.

Of course everyone happily followed the two handsome boys out of the room. You exhaled, feeling much more relaxed.

"Some group of friends you have there." Dawon mused. "What do they gain by being close to you?"

"I wish I knew." You chuckled.

"And once upon a time, you wanted to be popular so bad." Yoongi emerged, still in his dress.

"And once upon a time, you and Hoseok played like normal people." Dawon pointed at him. "I know I'm not supposed to ask questions, but this is the most ridiculous thing I've done for ya'll."

"I'm sorry for the trouble." You frowned.

"I just said it was ridiculous. I didn't say it wasn't any fun." she grinned. "You all keep me creative with your requests. You can go change. I'll measure the shrimp quickly."

"What was that?!"

"You heard me."

"Say it to my face!"

"Too bad I can't see it, it's too far down."

You laughed at their bickering as you hurried to change out of your dress.

Only to come to the same issue with your zipper. You grunted as you struggled to pull the fabric up to reach it better, but to no avail. You exhaled.

"Need help?" Yoongi's amused voice echoed in the room.

"Please." You sighed.

"I'm coming in." he pulled the curtain slightly so that you two were in your changing room alone.

"You changed already?" You blinked to find him back in his sweater and jeans.

"Yeah. I thought you'd eventually be successful, but this is just sad." he grinned. "A little zipper doing you in."

"It's a real tragedy." You shook your head.

"Turn."

You did so and pulled your hair to the side to allow him better access to the zipper. The room suddenly became much warmer as he pulled the zipper down to free you. Both of you had forgotten that you weren't wearing anything underneath until the moment your skin was exposed.

"Um...uh there you go." Yoongi rushed out hurriedly.

"Th-thanks."

"Mhm."

You quickly changed back, and stepped out shyly.

"L-let's go?"

You nodded quietly and followed him.

"You should bring those girls more often." Dawon smirked as she grabbed the dresses from you two.

"Why?" You questioned.

"They bought like half the dresses that my brother recommended to them." She chuckled.

"Oh boy."

"So anyways, I'll have everything ready the day of the dance. You can come back and pick it up around 5pm. I'll be here to get you all ready and made up." she smiled.

"Perfect. Thank you." You bowed.

"Anything for my favorite customers." Dawon waved. "Come again!"

"Hoseok, Jungkook." You called out to them. "We're done!"

"Sorry girls. I'll see you all at the dance!" Hoseok waved and suavely threw an arm around Yoongi. "Did I do well?"

"I'm not sure if you were working or playing." Yoongi mumbled as you four stepped out into the streets.

"Mmm both?" Hoseok grinned. "I got some info."

"Like?"

"Most of the popular girls pick up the dresses all together then get ready at a specific salon together. And most of the other girls try to follow them so they can look just as rich and classy. And that they go all out with decorations, food, and music during these dances. The families try to outdo each other with donations as a sign of status, so all eyes are really on this event." Hoseok recounted.

"Meaning that if something were to happen, it's likely these deaths will turn the school and their families upside down." You frowned.

"Everyone's mentality is at their tipping point. If you take the one positive thing they're distracted on, their one glimmer of hope of normalcy, everything will snap." Hoseok snapped his fingers together. "And bam! Chaos."

"And chaos would mean free reign to kill." Yoongi sighed. "No one would be looking for the killer anymore, and may end up just killing each other to survive."

You shivered. "Let's hope it doesn't get there."

Jungkook wrapped his sweater around your shoulders, and you smiled gratefully.

"There's already been 5 victims." Hoseok sighed. "And if the person is referring to the novel...the total number of victims they're going for is..."

"Ten." You breathed as you looked up at the sky. "But what'll happen after 10? Will they reveal it? Or will they continue elsewhere?"

Yoongi glanced at you sadly. "Let's hope it doesn't get that far."

"It feels like the tides are going to turn." You frowned. "If something happens at this dance, the school will probably never be the same."

"The whole team will be there. We won't let anything bad happen to anyone." Jungkook patted your head reassuringly.

You smiled slightly and nodded.

"Now, it's been awhile since we've all gathered. Let's have lunch then ice cream!" Hoseok cheered.

"Ugh. It's so annoying. Like she's not even that pretty." the girls huffed as they waltzed into the ice cream shop.

Jimin and Tae raised an eyebrow, recognizing Braids and the few who decided to wear their school uniforms during the weekend. Jimin pulled his shades over his eyes as he continued to scoop into the large sundae he and Tae were sharing.

"Yeah, like doesn't it feel like Y/N was taunting us? I mean that smug smile while introducing her hott date, and when she came out in that dress, she was like so arrogant."

"The color looked like vomit." someone snickered.

Braids chuckled, "I mean yeah I know."

"I thought you were close to her Braids? Why're you hanging out with us? It looked like you wanted to join their group instead."

"No!" Braids waved her hand. "Of course not. I'm just nice to her. But now that she's gotten popular, she's starting to piss me off too."

"Like we worked to become popular, and she got it overnight? Just because she caught a stupid ball? How ridiculous."

"Do you know how much we got done to look this good?"

Tae slurped his drink loudly, earning the girl's attention. Braids appeared to have recognized him and so they hurried to a table further away from them.

"How awful." Jimin frowned.

"Poor Y/N." Tae hummed.

"She has us now. It's fine." Jimin shrugged.

"More than us now." Tae smiled. "I'm happy."

Jimin nodded, "Me too."

"So when will you ask me to the dance?" Tae grinned.

Jimin choked on his drink. "What?"

"Y/N told me about what happened. When were you going to ask me?" Tae shrugged.

"I mean uh casually?" Jimin chuckled. "I don't know. Did you even want to go?"

"Jimin-ah." Tae called.

"Hm?"

"Let's go to the dance together."

Jimin laughed, "Alright."

Tae giggled.

"They said they'll meet us here after lunch, right? It's been awhile since we've all just hung out." Jimin glanced at his phone.

"Mhm." Tae swung his legs happily as he finished his strawberry smoothie. "I want another!"

"That's your 3rd one, Tae."

"Oh well ~" Tae skipped to the line happily.

Jimin exhaled and shook his head, amused.

The week flew by relatively quickly. Somehow, you and Yoongi came out at the top of your class academically despite not having paid attention too much. Then again, this was your second time repeating high school while the others were in their first run through. But apart from exams, the excitement of the dance coursed through everyone's veins. What had been morbid and solemn just weeks prior was once again lively and energetic.

The day of the dance arrived and you waltzed into the Meijiwoo shop to pick up the dress in good spirits with Yoongi, Hoseok, and Jungkook at your side.

"Oh good. We all came at the same time." Dawon arrived pulling her fashionable sunglasses above her head. "I thought I might be late since I was coming from a different store."

"I'm sure we could've managed with Hoseok showing us around." Yoongi sassed.

"Sure, squirt." She brushed off as she walked into her shop. "How did the pick-ups go?"

"Bad news!" her workers rushed to her frantically. "Someone's dress was slashed!"

Dawon squinted. "Whose?"

"I-it was the green...one..." they hung their heads.

Everyone glanced at you worriedly, and you suddenly started feeling very disheartened.

"Did I not say to keep a special eye on that one?" Dawon scolded.

"We're sorry!"

"Did you find who did it?" she questioned.

"We'll check the cameras."

Dawon sighed as one of her workers handed her her coffee to appease her. "Luckily, I had an inkling something like this would happen. Come."

"You thought something like this would happen?" Yoongi questioned.

"If you've been in this business long enough, you start noticing trends of ill will and jealous as easily as breathing." Dawon explained.

"There's been plenty of dress stealing and slashing."Hoseok commented. "Especially during prom season, or even brides who know each other."

"My stores only sell very limited numbers of each style, so the competition and demand is very high." Dawon grinned. "But that's what makes the brand very desired. You're guaranteed to be unique."

You smiled. She was so undeniably mature and chic, on top of being talented and passionate in her business.

"Yoonji, go get changed. You'll be fairly easy to do hair and make-up on. Hoseok, go with her. Jungkook, Y/N, follow me to my studio in the back." She waved her hand. The two boys obeyed, while you and Jungkook glanced at each other and trailed behind her.

"When I saw you in that dress, Y/N, I got inspired to design and make a new dress. I was going to wait for another special occasion to give it to you, but this is a good a time as any for its debut."

"What?" You questioned, but you gasped when she opened the door to her studio and spotted a gorgeous dress on display.

It was a beautiful, eye-catching Tiffany blue, and you couldn't take your eyes off of it.

Dawon pressed a button and the glass case opened.

"I figured you'd need to move more easily, so the skirt can be designed in various ways." she grinned proudly. "It looks like a high-low, but if you look at the back, there's still a lot of fabric that looks like a trail. If you detach it," she did so. "And wrap it around across your waist, it'll be a full length skirt with a leg slit. Or you can completely detach it to make it a short dress. For kicking ass. The extra fabric could be used as rope or a parachute or something."

You covered your mouth. You were absolutely in love with it.

"It's also fool proof and shock absorbent, so if you spill something, it won't stain and if someone hits you, it won't hurt as much." she winked. "AND" She lifted up the inside of the skirt to reveal pockets excitedly. "you can hide whatever you need in there."

"This is AMAZING!" You breathed. "Thank you!"

"You're like a little sister, Y/N. It's a shame to always be surrounded by boys and not being able to dress up so prettily." she smiled as she patted your cheek. "But now you can. This dress is one of a kind, just like you."

You embraced her warmly. "I have no words."

"It's a thank you for bringing life back to Yoongi again, and for always looking out for the pair." she muttered. "They're family, even though they're both a pain in the ass."

You were about to ask her what she meant about bringing life about to Yoongi, but she shoved the dress into your arms without hesitation.

"Now, we don't have much time. Get that on and then I have to do your hair and make-up. I have to pick out your accessories. " Dawon cackled as she floated out of the room. " I need to have that shrimp look shook, especially when dressed as he is. This will be gold!"

Amused, you glanced at Jungkook, who picked up the dress easily for you, and you both hurried to the changing room.

You entrusted yourself to Dawon for the next hour and a half as she did your hair and make-up on her own, ordering people here and there, and making decisions about your accessories. You wondered how the others were faring. Jungkook and Hoseok had disappeared to get into their tuxedos, while you hadn't heard about Yoongi since you walked into the shop. Hopefully, he didn't keel over from all the fussing.

"My masterpiece." Dawon beamed as she stared at you, her face full of contentment and satisfaction.

You blushed.

"Take a look." She stepped away and gestured behind you. "Stand up, and stand tall."

You shut your eyes and took a deep breath. Slowly, you pushed yourself out of the chair and turned around to face the full length mirror. When your eyes opened, you were met with the shocked, gaping expression of Yoongi in front of you.

"Yoonji! Get away! You're ruining her moment!" Dawon hissed as she snapped pictures of his face on her phone anyway.

Hoseok snorted as his friend didn't register what his sister said, too busy gawking at you. You smiled shyly and looked down. Hoseok pulled him to the side so the mirror was free, and you gasped at your reflection. You were speechless.

You were stunning. Yoongi had no other words in his vocabulary. Even if he did, his ability to speak apparently disappeared as soon as you turned around. He silently cursed Dawon, because she had made it so much harder to protect you from the lustful stares of hormonal teenage boys, and made it ten times more difficult to calm his racing heart.

"Well, come on. There are 3 people in this room, and no one is giving compliments." Dawon mentioned.

Hoseok shoved Yoongi forward.

"Shit Hoseok." Yoongi glared back at his friend, but then he glanced forward, your expectant face staring at him, and he got timid. "It...You...you look breath-taking."

Your lips curled up. "You don't look bad yourself."

Yoongi pouted. He wished he wasn't dressed like a female so you would take him a bit more seriously.

"Good thing you're dressed like that." You chuckled as you looked back at the mirror and fiddled with your dress.

"Why?" he asked.

"I might've been charmed by your compliment." You grinned.

Yoongi's lips curled up. So did that mean he had a chance if he did it seriously next time?

"Namjoon's here with the limo. Let's go." Hoseok glanced at his watch.

"It's still a bit ridiculous that everyone lives on campus, but they're coming into the building in limos and carriages." You snorted.

"Rich people." Yoongi shook his head.

"Be careful." Dawon waved. "And have fun."

"I can't thank you enough." You grabbed her hands warmly.

"All I want is for you all to come back safely." She squeezed your hands. "Okay?"

"We will." You smiled.

Without missing a step, you all piled into the limo, in which Namjoon was already an occupant. He beamed as you gathered into the vehicle.

"You all look very handsome and beautiful." he complimented.

"Thanks." Everyone replied.

"Here are the new weapons. Arm yourselves." Namjoon handed each of you a sack.

"The words I love hearing. New weapons." You grinned as you inspected each of them before carefully storing them in your skirt or in your leg holsters.

"So I can't stress enough how critical tonight will be. It is likely they will try to pull through multiple murders today. We have to be mindful of everyone and everything. Luckily, most of the team will be on site, so it'll be easier to scan the perimeter without looking paranoid." Namjoon took out another bag. "And here are the new ear pieces. This time, there's a button to signal danger, just in case you aren't allowed to speak. And if you press twice, we can listen into the conversation. Priority is safety. Don't engage with the murderer, but protect the victims discreetly. We can't expose our skill set and our identities. And they can't theirs. So if the lights malfunction, Tae made these automatic night vision contacts, so everyone put them on."

Namjoon gave you all time to do so before proceeding.

"Again, try to save people as natural and as unskillfully as possible." he instructed.

"Like save them...without looking like you're saving them?"

"Yes. More or less, if they attack at the dance, they'll have something to combat the darkness too, so as clearly as you can see them, they can see us."

"Ah. If we're seen kicking ass, it'll be obvious that we're not just mere students." Hoseok restated.

"Exactly."

"This is going to be difficult indeed." Hoseok hummed.

"We can do it." You claimed confidently. "We're all the agency's top students. If we can't pull it off, who can?"

The others nodded and smiled.

"Stay safe team." Namjoon saluted, and you all returned the gesture as the limo pulled up in front of the school.

It was time.

Yoongi grinned widely as he watched you turn heads from behind as the four of you made your way up the stairs towards the building. But as always, you didn't notice, too busy nervously chatting with Jungkook and trying not to trip on your heels to care. He should've flaunted you like that in high school. He should've been more proud to be with you. He should've --

"If you stare any longer, lasers are gonna shoot out of your eyeballs and into the back of her head." Hoseok chuckled.

Yoongi relaxed. "Ha-ha."

"So I see you're still kicking yourself because you just realized how stupid you were in the past." Hoseok grinned.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Yoongi pursed his lips, annoyed.

"I did. Multiple times. I said 'You're stupid for letting her go. You're stupid for saying that. You're stupid for not apologizing. You're an idiot.' and you said 'I don't give a shit. I don't give a fuck.'"

Yoongi sighed.

"But you know, everything has its time." Hoseok smiled. "Don't dwell too much on what happened or what will happen, and just focus on the time that's given to you right now."

"Too bad, I'm not in the proper attire to go and woo her at this second."

"Okay well, maybe not exactly right now. It's not the right time." Hoseok's eyes twinkled. "But don't wait too long like you did in high school, and like you did when she walked out of your life."

"Yeah, yeah. You keep saying that."

"I've just seen you dude. Those years weren't pretty." Hoseok teased.

"Shut up." Yoongi rolled his eyes.

"Wow..." You breathed, garnering their attention as you all stepped into the Grand Hall, fully decorated in shimmering gold and crystal decorations. You tightened your hold on Jungkook's arm. "Oh my gosh! Look at the buffet!"

"That's the first thing I said too." Jin appeared, chuckling. "You look very beautiful, Y/N."

You smiled, "You look very dashing as well, Mr. Kim."

"I know." Jin grinned. "Anyway, before enjoying festivities, I need you to sign in so we can make sure we have the proper headcount tonight."

"Sure thing." You grabbed the clipboard and pen from him to sign in then passed it to Yoonji.

Hoseok turned his head away, but Jin's stare lingered on him for a few seconds before turning back to you. It didn't miss your keen eye though.

"Enjoy the evening everyone! Help yourselves to appetizers." Jin waved and hurried to the next few students from your homeroom that had arrived.

"Do you know each other?" You asked Hoseok.

"Well, I visited Yoongi at school so I bumped into him a couple of times. Then I danced on the side during college and we met a few times at competitions."

"Was he good?" You were curious. "I've never seen him dance."

"I can't say I remember..." Hoseok hummed.

"Oh my gosh! Y/N!" Braids gasped. "You changed your dress! What happened?"

Yoongi stepped in front of you defensively.

"Why do you think something happened?"

Braids was a bit taken aback. "I... I meant what happened as in why she changed her dress is all."

You lay a hand on Yoongi's shoulder. "There was some damage on it, so she kindly gave me another one."

"Well this one's definitely ten times more beautiful." she complimented, tracing the skirt playfully. "I'm jealous! You look so pretty!"

"Thanks." you smiled.

"Hi Jungkook. Hi Hoseok." she greeted. "Hi Yoonji. Oh, here comes Prez. Hi Prez!"

You perked up and spun around in time to see him approaching your group.

"Hey." he smiled, eyes focused intently on you before scanning to everyone else. "You all look very charming."

"You as well." You bowed. "This is my date Jungkook, and Yoonji's date, Hoseok."

"Nice to meet you boys. I'm the Student Council President." he shook their hands.

He seemed to hesitate on asking you something, so you answered knowingly.

"I have it."

He looked surprised you had read his mind, but his lips curled up contently. "Good. Please take good care of it."

You nodded.

"I'll see you around throughout the night. Enjoy the party!" he scurried to greet the Librarian happily.

"Y/N!"

"Mr. Park!" You turned, immediately recognizing the voice, and waved. "Inspector Kim!"

The two waltzed towards the group in well fitted suits, earning many glances their way.

"Woww! Let me see. Do a spin for me!" Tae beamed happily, forgetting his place, but you appeased him anyway. "I love it! You look so pretty ~"

"Thank you. You two cleaned up nicely too. "You grinned, feeling at ease finally seeing your two best friends together and being able to talk candidly for once.

For a few minutes, you all chatted warmly as people trickled in. It wasn't until Namjoon was heard in everyone's ear pieces that you were brought back to reality.

"Assume positions everyone. It's go time."

And so the night proceeded smoothly. Everyone danced, mingled, ate food, and danced some more. You kept an eye out for any suspicious activity, but none of the staff members left the premises. You spotted the Counselor keeping the English Teacher company by the buffet the entire time. It seemed like she was talking his ear off, but he was kind enough to continue listening. Jin was being bothered constantly for pictures from students, but he obliged happily. He occasionally jumped into groups and danced cutely, which the students absolutely loved. Prez oddly looked tense and vigilant, but would converse or dance with whoever approached him. You thought to yourself that maybe...just maybe the night would go without any difficulties.

But as soon as you finished that thought, the lights flickered. You had time to catch Yoongi's worried expression directed at you from across the room before you were all completely plunged into complete darkness.

Piercing screams were heard throughout the hall, and your eyes scanned for movement, to find that there were a lot of people moving.

Students.

Students were going around shoving people down. But why?

You followed the closest student's trajectory, and pretended to stumble into a chair, forcing it to fly forward, colliding with the shadow.

"Someone's touching me!"

"Ow!"

"Who's shoving?"

"Get off me!"

Sounds of irritated and distraught students began flooding the place. Crashes were heard here and there, and you prayed those sounds were because the others doing what they could to keep their protection inconspicuous. You saw Jungkook grab the tablecloth as he pretended to stumble and look for something to grip, whipping it back to hit one of the rebels in the face. You reached out for his arm as a gesture that he did well.

Yoongi, on the other hand, was crawling on the floor, causing the others to trip and stumble over as they tried to make their rounds of bullying in the dark. Jimin and Tae had knocked over some of the food to make it harder to move around quickly. Hoseok was going around waving his hand in front of him, as if he was feeling out the darkness, and moving people out of the way to protect them, in the pretense that he was trying to find Yoonji. That certainly threw off the students who weren't used to seeing in the dark. It seemed they had mapped out everyone's locations prior to the darkness, and used that to guide them.

Why was this happening?

"Counselor!"

There was a shriek heard and the lights flickered on at that exact moment. Within the few minutes of darkness, the entire hall was vandalized and trashed. Students were either on the floor or clutching their partners out of fear. You glanced around worriedly.

"Counselor!" the English Teacher called out again.

The Counselor had blood trickling from his head.

Jimin hurried over immediately, "What happened?"

"Someone hit him with something. I heard the crash and he faltered. I panicked." The English Teacher cried. "Will he be alright?"

"S-someone help, please!" The Librarian was weeping, and you realized it was her that had shrieked last.

You ran over and gasped. "Mr. Park, Inspector Tae!"

The two rushed over at your urgent call.

Writhing on the floor, with a knife plunged into his side was the Student Council President.

"He rushed in front of me and I heard an odd noise and I knew something was off. Then he collapsed. I just-I just...how did he get here?" the Librarian cried as she felt the Prez's body frantically. "Is he? Is he?"

Prez coughed and smiled weakly. "I'm alive. I'm okay."

"I don't think having a knife in gut is being alright." You knelt down.

"Team. Suspicious activity going on in the hallway. Unidentified person spotted among other students who were in attendance at the dance. One student had blood on his hands."

You glanced down at the knife covered in blood, feeling your skin crawl.

"Hey look! There's a trail of blood going to the hallway!" One of the students mentioned. "We can catch the culprit if we follow it! Let's go!"

A few of the students began gathering hurriedly to make their way out of the hall.

"Y/N." Prez whispered.

"What?" You leaned down.

"There's going to be two. I stopped one. But another person will be a victim." he breathed. "Please."

"Are you sure?"

He nodded and coughed.

Jimin and Tae were hurriedly working to bandage his wounds and stop the bleeding. The Librarian had already called the ambulance and was still blubbering worriedly. You gulped and stood up.

"Hey, someone's wearing all black in the hallway and running around!" a student pointed. "Let's get them!"

"Wait--" you were about to call out as you marched towards the group. But then you heard a snapping noise above from where you stood. You glanced up and gasped as you saw the chandelier loosening.

"Jimin, Tae!" You called out, and they immediately shielded the Prez and Librarian.

"Y/N! Get out of there!" Yoongi bellowed.

You shut your eyes; it was too late to will yourself to move. But suddenly, you felt yourself being propelled away from your spot by a heavy force. Hearing the loud crash, but not feeling anything, you opened your eyes curiously.

"Jin?" You breathed as you realized he was laying on top of you, cradling your head carefully.

He smiled wryly. "You shouldn't just stand and stare at chandeliers falling on you silly."

You exhaled in relief. "How many times has that been now?"

"Hm?"

"That you saved me." You chuckled.

"I think 2 or 3...but who's counting?" he grinned as he pried himself off of you.

"Kids, don't chase the stranger without any adults!" The Principal and Vice Principal chased after the crowd of students running out, full of confidence that they could chase the killer.

"They're decoys." Namjoon spoke into your earpieces.

Jin helped you up, and you immediately glanced at your team members with a curt nod. It would have to be divide and conquer.

"Treat the injured." Tae patted Jimin's hand. "And keep an eye out for the people here. I'll go with them."

"Be careful." Jimin frowned.

"You too."

Prez coughed, and Jimin applied more pressure to the wound, praying the ambulance would come in time.

Quickly, you adjusted your skirt so you could move around with more ease. You silently praised Dawon for her consideration.

"I'll come with you, Y/N." Jin grabbed your hand. "Let me come."

You stared at him worriedly. "Are you sure?"

He nodded.

You turned to your date for the night, who was waiting for your instructions.

"Let's go then, Jungkook, Jin."

The three of you hurried out of the hall and made a right, while Hoseok and Yoongi made a left.

"Okay, so tell me, why are people chasing AFTER the killer?" Jin questioned. "Aren't we supposed to be running AWAY?"

"Probably because everyone wants to stop this kind of anxiety from happening again. They want to end this for good." You answered.

Jin nodded understandably.

"I do have to confess, Jin." You clenched your fists. "I've trained in martial arts."

"Oh?" Jin blinked. "Why this confession all of a sud--"

People dressed in all black with their faces covered sprung out of adjacent classrooms, and you immediately began punching, kicking, and flipping them to the ground. Jungkook was trying to hold back his strength, carefully trying not to injure anybody. Jin panicked and threw out a punch gently at someone who came close to him. You chuckled, and proceeded to side-kick them away.

"Good hit, Mr. Kim."

He shook his head, amused. "I try."

"Everyone. They're not decoys. They're all disappearing into one place. They're leading everyone there." Namjoon spoke in panic.

"Where?" You heard Yoongi's voice ask.

"To the Science Room."

Your stomach dropped.

The freezers.

Jungkook finished off the rest of the accomplices, and you all ran towards the Science Room.

The daunting realization that you were no longer dealing with just one or two murderers in the school, but more than a handful of accomplices, terrified you greatly. You temporarily willed yourself to shake those thoughts away for now, and pushed your legs to take you where you needed to be.

When you arrived, a large crowd had gathered. You noticed all the staff members were present, even the Counselor, who had his head injury covered with a gauze pad for the time being. The Science Teacher was at the front of the crowd, looking seemingly flabbergasted that his classroom had become the gathering place. The trail of blood entered the room, and made its way into his office. Your heart raced as you pushed yourself to the front of the crowd, where you spotted Tae, Yoongi, and Hoseok looking disgusted and shocked.

"What happened?" You breathed.

Tae closed his eyes and shook his head.

"Don't come here, Y/N." Yoongi frowned.

"Why? Who is it?" You slowly moved forward, following the trail of blood to the opened door of the Science Teacher's office.

"Y/N." Yoongi grabbed your arm tightly. "Don't go in."

Your gaze fell to the end of the blood trail and into the fully opened freezer, containing a mutilated body, stuffed carelessly inside. The blood was fresh and still dripping down, creating a pool at the bottom of the container. Your hand covered your mouth to stop you from throwing up as you spotted the head of the body.

Staring back at you was your very first friend in this high school, Braids.

.

PART 8