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shadowofahope · 7 months

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Love Revocation

Pairing: ImperialGuard!JungHoseok x Princess!Reader

Premise: Only your brothers would be willing to step in and try to change your future. But history isn't easy to overcome, even if it is all but forgotten.

Word count: 3.5K

Author's note: I've been watching a lot of historical k-dramas and c-dramas lately, and I can say it's an addiction at this point! If you have any favourites feel free to share! I'd love to watch your recommendations as well as talk about any mutual ones we love!

masterlist

One foot infront of the other, the crisp air of the afternoon breeze through your robes and hair, the light chatter of people in the market; it all gave you a bittersweet taste of Deja vu. Times like these felt right, but you had the feeling that nothing looked as it should. It could be the small taste of freedom mixed with the claustrophobic fear being chained somewhere. However, where the other end of the chain was you didn’t know. Or you did once, but it was lost with the rest of your memories from all those years ago.

You stopped trying to remember after the first two season changes, then you accepted your circumstances and adjusted yourself to where you were.

Arms full, you smile gracefully at the passing merchants and village people, the ones bowing at you when recognization transpired. You all but skip down the back path heading towards the palace again.

You promised mother you’d finish her painting of the place father asked for her hand today. You had beeen working on it for her birthday, but you were too excited to wait. So it may have been promised 2 weeks earlier then her day.

However, a shroud voice catches your attention before you make it to the next corner. You stop in your tracks to listen. If living in the palace taught you anything it was ‘to always know the concerns of your people’, were fathers exact words. In otherwords you took it as a sign that it was ok, in most situations to eavesdrop… at least a little.

“She is being forced to marry the oldest son of the emperor and empress. Her bloodline will muddy just as theirs already is.” A sinik male voice mocked.

“What do you mean by that?” You heard your brothers fiance ask. She was a headstrong woman. Not only that but she was radiant. The type of woman your brother deserved.

“Everyone knows the young lady is unfavoured by the gods. So if you bear a child with him your children will be inflicted with the same inability.” This time a female voice chimed in. Just as distasteful as the males.

“The princess is kind, witty, social, politically intelligent, well read, impactful, understanding and unworldly beautiful. Our children will be blessed to have her as their aunt.” Tayla lists, you smile to yourself. She didn’t have to defend your honour so seriosuly, but you silently thanked her none the less.

“You have your doubts. There is no way you do not feel some worry about tarnishing your family name. Its reputation will be dragged through the land if your children fail to develope as she has. They will be cursed as she is.”

Anyone talking about your family members however, you just couldn’t let it slide so easily.

“My brothers children will develop into the strongest blood line of these past 1000 years, we are in no need of your concern.” You step in, rounding the corner of the building. Your voice and demeanour remain calm, a smile on your lips as your mother had taught you when it came to political arguments. Remaing calm when the opposing side could not, as strategy she had learned in her youth.

What others said about you didn’t really bother you anymore. As a young child you always felt the sting of their harsh words. Like they were hoping you’d choke on them. But it had the opposite affect. It only drove you to try harder, to learn the ways of the palace. To push yourself past the limits that this life had given you.

“My lady!” Many courteous greetings are followed by formal bows. “Wha-what are you doing here?”

“I was out for a walk through the village to get a few supplies.” Holding up the items in your hands, you sidle up to your future sister in law. Taking a step between her and the small circle of ill intended pupils.

“We didn’t mean anything by it. We were just worried she hadn’t thought it through. Or raised concerns” One of the young males spoke quickly. You stifle a scoff, but continue to maintain your composure.

“I’m sure you are.” You eye him carefully, if you weren’t mistaken he was one of the many candidates who wanted Tayla’s hand in marriage. “However as I am not my mother and fathers birth daughter, you’ll be happy to know my genes will die with me.”

“You are not the child of the Emporer and Empress?” The small crowd gasps in unison. You could laugh at how comical their faces became.

Even so, amongst the mumbling in front of you there is a faint call from behind you, you turn to her.

“Mother and Father saved me when I was young. Knowing I could not cultivate nor could remember where I had come from or how I ended up where they found me, they showed compassion and mercy upon taking me in and raising me with their children.” You explain to her alone. “I am blessed beyond measure. And your children will hold the greatest of titles. ”

--------

A few days had past since your unexpenctant, informal announcement of your lineage. A very important matter had taken your attention, so you had all but forgotten already. You hear frantic footsteps approach your room. You brace your mind for the inevitable impact that would be your brothers. Your hand doesn’t still as it continues to write on the parchment of your lessons from today. Your doors burst wide open, not bothering to look up at them.

“Are you really planning to take the tether serum?” Your youngest brother demands breathlessly.

“You’re here earlier then I expected, I am almost surprised.” You smile to yourself. If you had placed money on them discovering your plans, it would not have been until at least a week had past.

“Don’t make light of this.” Your eldest brother scolds from the rear, coming up behind your younger brother, closing the doors to conceal your conversation.

“Why would you make such a thing?” Taehyung's bewilderment is something you had became accustomed to. He somehow always seemed shocked by your actions. Considering how long you had been in the family now, you would have thought he had understood you at least a little.

You let out a deep sigh, the air from your lungs feels cold as it leaves your body into the warm air.

“I want to be of use to mother and father in the end. Is that so outrageous as to incur your unmistakable wrath?” You choose your words carefully, not wanting to sadden them with todays ongoings but at the same time you know Seokjin’s fiance has already informed him of the other day.

“We both understand greatly how indebted you feel towards them, but to tether your lifeline to them as someone still young is unheard of.” Seokjin reasons, still standing in the middle of the room, you can see his robes out of your peripheral. Taehyung sits down in the place next to you, trying to get your attention.

“Elder brother is right. If they both pass then so shall you, your soul cannot be separated. You shall serve them into death and upon new life.” His tone turning sorrowful.

This time you look up at him, then towards your elder.

“My dear brothers, It’s no secret that no one would marry me before and now with my birth being admitted, I have somehow lost whatever leverage I may have had.”

“That’s not true.” You see the hurt in the youngers eyes, but what you've said is true. You all know it. You give him a sad smile, letting your hand drop the brush, and placing it over his on the table.

“I cannot cultivate. I have no sense of magic or any prowess. My soul has been deemed weak and now people know that I am not the Emperor and Empress' true daughter.” You direct your smile towards Seokjin. “I have been preparing myself for this outcome since we were young. Please, if you cannot understand me then at least accept that this is your sisters wish.”

--------

“The last time the two of you bowed this deeply to us was when you were young children and you and our son had broken a priceless family heirloom while you were training in the halls.” The Emperors longest friend muses from his seat. Him and his wife had known your parents since they were young, they were as close as family. Including their son, who happened to be the same age as you. So all four of you had grown up together.

“Uncle. Auntie. We are here to request an inordinate favour from you. One we know may be impossible for you to agree to, but we must ask this of you.” Seokjin’s whole body is tense. Everything he can do to save you from tethering yourself is hanging on this outcome.

“What is it?” Your aunt is more curious then worried by their request. Seeing them kneel before them was a shock bigger then they had ever expected.

Your brothers sit up straight.

“Our sister. As you know she is unable to cultivate. She has no skill in combat. Many have deemed her unworthy to bear our family name.” Seokjin’s voice comes out strong, but his hands are trembling slightly. “However, as you also know. Our sister is competent in the kitchen, and with chores of the home. She is patient and nurturing when she takes care of the palaces many children. She has beautiful skills in the way of art and embroidery. She is generous beyond measure and courteous to others. She deserves to have a future.”

“We both agree. She is a diamond amongst pebbles. But what brings this tone of concern?” Uncle is concerned.

“Our sister has decided to take the tether serum and serve our parents.” Taehyung explains. “We do not know if you have heard the word circling about our sister not being of our blood. But we are here to confirm it. Our parents took her in when I was newly born, she is all I’ve known to be an older sister.”

“We are aware of the talk. We were also there the day your parents found the young lady.” The Uncle assures. “You do not need to worry about our thoughts towards the princess.”

“I am curious to this favour. What do you wish to ask for?” Auntie pushes.

“Our sister wishes to tether herself for she believes no one will marry her.” Seokjin explains. They bow again in unison, as if they had practiced their movements and speech before appearing. “We ask of you to please propose a marriage contract to the Emporer and Empress between our sister and your son.”

Taehyung cuts in quickly before they can be dismissed.“We know he is your only son, but we beg of you. She respects your son and you, uncle and auntie. There are many things she may be useful for.”

“Useful? She is enough as she is. We know that very well.” Uncle states, making eye contact with his wife. The look of understanding flashing between the two, unseen by the young princes.

“Just as we know our son. He has felt feelings of affection for the young lady for quite some time. You might not know this but she was the reason he decided he wanted to join the guard.” The older woman conceals her giggle behind her hand. “I had never seen such a rambunctious boy turn so serious.”

“He knew?” They both shoot up in surprise. Their friend had never mentioned having any knowledge of your sisters situation. But then again, they had never spoken of this either.

“Yes. Our son was adamant that he would protect the princess. We could not sway his mind. Though we did not try to. We have never looked down on her because of her situation. She has become a well rounded beautiful woman, our son would be blessed to take her as his wife.” The Lord nods,

“Does that mean you will agree?” They feel giddy. They could save you.

The older couple share a fond smile.

“There is something our son has been drawn to since he was a young boy. We believe your sister is the key to his happiness.”

--------

“Hoseok, what are you doing here?” You beam, controlling your feet to not skip your way over to him. A lady never skips…at least not in front of others.

“Princess” He greets you with a bow and warm smile as he always does. “I was summoned by the Emperor and Empress. Why have you come?”

“I was requested by Uncle and Auntie to meet them here.” You explain. “What is going on? Do you think its about Mothers birthday feast tomorrow?”

“I’m not sure, but we should not keep them waiting. Let us go in.” He opens the doors and waits for you to enter first.

You hurry in, smiles directed at your parents then your uncle and aunt.

A large round table adorned with vast plates of food, both your fathers sat near the far end laughing and chatting away, raising a drink to eachother. Your mothers seated next to their husbands also tremendously cheerful.

You share a quick glance before bowing.

“Emperor. Empress.” He greets first.

“Uncle. Auntie.” You greet directly after.

“Children! Come in! Have a seat.” You father cheers happily. Your aunt waves a hand over to you for you to sit next to her.

You bound over to sit next to your aunt. Which just so happens to be next to Hoseok as well.

“We are celebrating this evening.” Your mother informs, her attention on him.

“What are we celebrating Empress?” Formality laced in his words. It made you smile, even if he was like another son to your parents he highly respected them.

“Lord and Lady Jung, have come to us with a proposal contract and we have agreed.” The Emporer boisterously exclaims.

“I’m sorry, Father and Mother I fear I do not comprehend.” You express, eye brows coming to meet in a frown.

You see a flash of something cross Hoseoks face, but you stay focused on your looking between your parents.

Your Aunt grabs both your hands, placing them in the space between you and forcing you to face her.

“The Emporer and emperess have accepted our proposal for our son and you to be wed.” She cheers brightly, hands giving yours a light squeeze.

“I’m to marry-?” You look back at him. Scared to see panic or disgust or even rage on his dazzling features. But there isn’t any sign of darkening. Only red tinted ears give away any emotions he’s feeling. That in itself leaves you astonished adn shaken.

Words of wedding ceremonies are abrupt in your ears. The pattern of the bedding for your marriage suite.

“But, Uncle, auntie. I’m not worthy of marrying your son.” You say it like it is a definite fact, interrupting their excited remarks.

“Nonsense!” Your father bellows, a bright smile never leaving his face, he places his arm around his long term friend, who shares an equally blinding smile. “You two shall be wed! It is a beautiful idea, one I wish we had thought of sooner.”

The laughter from the elders erupts once again, leaving you shell shocked. Remaining quiet you can’t bring yourself to look at anyone, opting to stare at the oak table in front of you. How did these events happen? You had just made the choice to…

A sinking feeling hits you all at once. Your brothers. They were the only ones that knew of your plans, other then the physician you had asked the tether serum about. They would be the ones to try to stop you.

You’d deal with them after this dinner. You’d confront them and talk to Hoseok about his rejecting the marriage proposal.

You just had to sit nicely until then.

--------

“What did you do?!” You stormed into the study room the next day, you knew your brothers had hidden themselves away. They always resided in the same place to try to escape you when they had done something they knew you would be unhappy with. You had been followed by Hoseok on your way there when you mentioned you were confronting your brothers, upon meeting him that morning.

“Sister. This is a study room. Please refrain from raising your voice.” Your oldest mock scolding you, book in hand.

“Then answer me. I know it was the two of you that have provoked the marriage idea.” You were pulling back your seething temper, but it was becoming increasingly difficult.

“Princess~” Hoseok calls calmly from behind you. You could feel him close behind you, not touching but close enough that you felt like you could breathe.

“What all of our parents decide to do we do not hold any influence over. You know as well as anyone.” Seokjin scoffs. The audacity he had to play ignorant at this moment was appalling.

“We may have brought up the idea of a union.” Taehyung supplies from the far end of the room.

“Why would you do this?” Exasperation seeps out of you. There was no point in hiding your displeasure or annoyance at these two. “You know I wish to be tethered.”

“Tethered?” Hoseok speaks again. “Who were you to be tethered to?”

“Mother and Father.” You state, angry eyes set on your brothers, but also not wishing to elaborate. This isn’t how you wanted him to find out. You were all childhood friends, you wanted to tell him yourself when he had time away from his duties in the guard.

“She believes no one shall love her because she is unable to cultivate. She believes she is not worth dotting on.” Your elder brother chimes in, closing his book and sauntering over to you. “But that’s not true. Is it Hoseok?“

“No. It’s not.” Your childhood friends voice is stern, you had never heard it like this before, at least not targeted at you. It sends a shiver down your spine. “Is this why you wanted me to talk my parents out of this marriage?”

“I wanted to be tethered to mother and father because I wish to serve them for eternity.” Your jaw tense. Your core feeling as it had turned into stone.

“Look at me.” You have never heard his voice so cold and low, not even when he was at work. Something in you makes it impossible to deny him, so you do as he orders. You can see the fire behind his eyes, before your allow the flames to consume you you look towards the chilled marble ground. You hear muffled voices of your brother behind you but you can’t react. You feel warm fingers gently push your chin up ever so gently, forcing you to make eye contact. “Princess. Y/n. Is that really why?”

Your voice catches in your throat. A cough threatening to scratch its way out of you. “I am not like others. I cannot contribute to a high class home as I should. I’m…. broken.”

You had never felt so weak as you did in that moment, not since the days yo uhad been found. You could never lie to him. Not once.

He studies your face, searching for something. “Is it the worst to be betrothed to me?”

“What?” His question catches you off guard. You blink at him in confusion. Of course, you knew he would be angry at your decision, or at the very least angry with you for not trusting in him to discuss it.

“I can understand if you wish not to be wed to me because you do not think I’m adequate.” His voice soft like the look in his eyes. Soothing your anger towards your brothers in a instant, your only focus on him and the sad smile on his lips.

“That is ridiculous. I would not want it to be promised to any one else in this entire kingdom.” Why do you feel breathless?

“Good.” His hand slips away from your skin. For a mere second, you miss the contact before realizing what you said. Your face burns with embarrassment, your eyes scrunching closed at how idiotic you sounded to yourself. Had you lost your mind? “Then I will discuss with our parents for the ceremony to be held as soon as possible.”

The shock brings you back out of your inner reprimanding. But before you can formulate words he’s bowing to your brothers and then you and he’s gone.

“W-what just happened?” Your mind struggles to catch up.

Hearing your brothers snicker at you doesn’t’ help, you’re still frozen in place. Frozen staring at the now closed doors that Hoseok, your childhood friend, had left through.

Seokjins full laugh fills the room. “Looks like you’ll be a little bride faster than I will be a groom.”

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yeoja-dream · 8 months

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Intertwined

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Pairing: BTS OT7 X Reader

Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Eventual Smut, Plot, slight slow burn

Characters: Vampire!BTS, Elf!Reader

Content Warning: none

Word Count: 4.3k

You finally wake when the rays of the late morning sun warm your face and hurt your eyes. You sat up groggily, rubbing the sleep from them with balled fists. Unwillingly, the events of last night flood your barely continuous mind. The memories have you kicking at your sheets with frustration.

“What was his issue anyway?” You complained out loud. Maybe you’d never get to know. At least I get to say I’ve both instructed and kissed a member of BTS, you attempted to reason. The thought brings you little comfort.

While you set something fragrant to boil on the stove, you checked your phone, finally, scrolling through dozens of missed notifications due to your late slumber. Habitually, you checked for new work emails, the top of which gave you immediate pause. “SUBJECT: I’m sorry. SENDER: KIM SEOKJIN. You’ve got to be kidding me.” You laughed incredulously.

Dear Y/N,

Firstly, I would like to apologize for contacting you via your work email. In my rush to leave last night, I forgot to exchange more proper means of contact. I would also like to apologize for my behavior. I understand that it must have been, in a word, confusing. If you would be kind enough, I would greatly appreciate the chance to explain myself properly in person. The issue is more complicated than I have a great understanding of, so I would also like to bring Namjoon who has a better understanding of the circumstances. However, I wouldn’t want to impose or make you feel like you were being ganged up on.

Please understand we will take no further action with you, and should to ignore this correspondence we will take it as your disinterest in the subject matter and we will leave you alone.

Best,

Kim Seokjin

“Jeez, this guy is uptight.” You mumbled, reading the message in totality. You sighed, sitting back in your rickety kitchen chair. Confusing is an understatement. You thought to yourself. But you also couldn’t deny that curiosity clawed at your insides. You sipped your hot, spiced cider, the taste giving you comfort and confidence. Something is telling me to hear them out, Dad. You thought to yourself. I just hope the cinnamon is enough.

Dear Kim Seokjin,

Sending emails is cumbersome, so here is my cellphone number. Text me whenever you’d like.

Thank you for apologizing. I will decide whether or not I accept it after our meeting. It may be sudden, but I took the day off of work today. If today does not work, you can make arrangements with me after the studio closes every day at 10 pm.

Best,

Y/N

You type the email and hit send before you can overthink it too much. What makes a man go from ready to take you on the floor to running out the door you couldn’t fathom, but you certainly looked forward to finding out.

It was about 2 hours later your phone buzzed with a notification, a text this time.

Hello, this is Jin. We all have schedules this morning, but Namjoon and I will be finished around 5 pm. Is it alright if I go ahead and make dinner reservations? Is there any place you like in particular?

Dinner reservations? You mused to yourself. That sounded formal, more formal than you were comfortable with. Dinner reservations were for dates, of which this meeting was certainly not.

Dinner is fine, but there is no need for reservations. I’m in the mood for Mediterranean tonight, so you can meet me at Olive and Thyme at 7. You replied.

Your phone buzzed again soon after sending.

Olive and Thyme at 7. We will be there. Thank you.

At that you tossed your phone to the other side of the couch, settling back into the cushions, zoning out to whatever insane dating reality TV show was on. Speculation is going to get me nowhere. You reminded yourself.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It had been a while since you had a reason to get dressed up, you realized as you curled your freshly washed and dried hair. Except the concert you had attended just 2 days prior, you could list the occasions you had to dress up for in the last 20 years on one hand. The thought makes you sad.

Your theme is cute but casual, you reminded yourself as you selected your pair of favorite high-waisted jeans, a plain crop top to match, and a light jacket to go over. There was also no need to go overboard with makeup, a little bit of skin tone-flattering eyeshadow, mascara, and a pink lipgloss would be plenty.

Of course, you didn’t forget about your ears. You’d had the pointy pains in the ass your whole life, and as such, you had discovered dozens of ways to hide them away. Your hair was down today, so pinning them back with a dab of spirit gum on the back side of each was more than enough coverage.

You stood back, admiring your handiwork in a standing mirror in your bedroom. Cute and casual, you decided. It was while looking at your reflection, that you also realized how remarkably well you had been taking things. Just two days ago, you were a faceless fan in a sea of other fans. You were meant to enjoy a fun performance and return to your daily life, and yet impossibly, not but 24 hours later, the oldest of BTS was running out of your dance studio after a steamy make-out session, and now supposedly wanted to meet up to discuss something cryptic. It was absurd, anyone would agree. Even in your most delusional of fantasies you couldn’t have dreamed up something more ridiculous. Maybe that was what was keeping you calm, sane. Maybe this was all just a crazy dream.

The time to leave fast approached, and with those lingering questions you found yourself in the back of an Uber on your way to destiny.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The interior of the restaurant was dated in its decor and sparsely populated, even when it was time for the dinner rush. You were the first one there, the aromatic smell of spices and wine hit you like a wall causing your stomach to clench painfully in hunger. The hostess was a small, mousey woman, who upon your request, sat you in one of the booths on the far side corner of the restaurant, more privacy, you figured.

Quickly the cool-headedness you were able to maintain from the safety of your home gives away to waves upon waves of anxiety. Bouncing your legs and chewing your nails was all you could do to relieve some of the pent-up nervousness as the seconds felt like hours. You cursed yourself silently for needing to arrive early.

Your suffering is somewhat short-lived, however, and as the clock hit 7:00 on the dot, the bells on the entrance door chimed as two handsome, well-groomed men walked in. It was easy to identify the pair as your evening guests.

They were nicely dressed in outfits not dissimilar to your own. They too spotted you easily, and with a swagger in their walks that made you need to look away, they both slid next to one another in the seats opposite to you. It was weird, though. Having both THE Kim Seokjin AND Kim Namjoon sitting across from you should make you feel 10x more anxious than you had before, and yet, slowly, you felt the tension in your shoulders come to dissipate, and when you really focused, the buzzy, electrical feeling from the previous night was becoming more and more prominent.

“Thank you for meeting us,” Jin took the lead. “This is Namjoon.”

You cracked a smile. “I know.”

“Well, I didn’t want to presume…” Jin trailed off embarrassed. You didn’t think you had ever seen Jin get embarrassed before, it was cute.

“Hi,” Namjoon said, offering his hand to you. You took it, and before you could greet him back, the very same warm, tingly sensation zipped up your hand and down your spine. Your smile quickly faded as you found yourself needing to grip the table to reorient yourself.

“Woah…” you breathed, shaking your head to clear some of the building haze.

The two boys looked at each other, then back to you.

“We’re going to talk about that, actually,” Namjoon said. “But first let's put our orders in.”

It was easy enough to flag down a waitress and place your orders. Small talk was easy to pass the time until your meals were served.

“So…” you began, picking at your salad. “Every time I touch you guys I get a weird feeling, whenever I am around you guys I get a different weird feeling, and at least Jin was acting weird around me.”

The pair sat back in the booths and sighed, before looking to one another.

“I’ll start,” Namjoon said. “What do you know about soulmates?”

“Basically what everyone else knows.” You stated. “One true love and all that. Although…” you trailed off. You triggered a memory, distant at first but grows with clarity when you concentrate on it.

“Daddy, what’s a soulmate?” You asked, book in hand, curled up in your reading nook in his laboratory.

“Well I suppose that depends on who you ask,” He said, not pausing from his work. “If you ask most people, I think they would tell you that it was someone they love a lot, or maybe someone who they feel like they’ve known for longer than they’ve actually known them.”

“Hmm.” You responded. “What if I don’t ask most people?”

“Hm?” Your dad asked, confused.

“Well, you said if I asked most people, that they would say all that. What if I don’t ask most people.”

“Ah,” He said, holding up two liquids seemingly comparing them. “Well, some other people would tell you that soulmates are different than just people you love a lot. They would tell you that souls are real, and when a soul is created, it is created alongside another. Usually, they are created in pairs, but it's not unheard of for them to be created in groups larger than that. Each soul is placed in a different vessel, but it will always pine for the soul it was created with.”

“Woah…” You respond in awe. “What happens when you meet your soulmate?”

“They say when you meet your soulmate, you’ll just know.” He said, notating something down in his journal. “Your soul calls out to theirs, long lost lover and friends reuniting after millennia. You burn and ache for the other until your souls are finally tied in a tying ritual. The tying ritual gives you a bond that you can communicate simple ideas or feelings over.”

“Wow! What kind of ritual do you have to do?” You asked, curiously.

“Oh well,” he paused from his work, looking away. “It is a bit too complicated for you now, but when you get older I will explain.”

“Do I have a soulmate?”

“Of course, you have a soul don’t you?”

“Ew. I don’t want a soulmate, Daddy.”

He laughed at you, walking over to you to pat your head.

“I’m afraid there are just some things in life that we cannot control, Pumpkin. Besides, I’m not going to be around forever, and it makes me feel better that you’ll have someone to keep you company someday.”

“Nooo!” you whined. “Who else is going to make strawberry rhubarb pie with dinosaurs? You have to stay around forever, okay Daddy?”

He laughed at you again, kissing the top of your forehead before returning to his work. “Sure thing, princess.”

You shake your head bringing you back to the present as the memory flicked by. “Souls are created alongside other souls and put inside of people who then spend their whole lives looking for each other and once you find the person you just know and you can tie the souls together and they’ll be happily ever after.” You summarized from your memory.

“Pretty much,” Namjoon said. “I was worried you were completely unaware. Have you ever met anyone you felt that way about?”

“Like just knowing? Not really.” You admitted with a shrug. You had loved before, certainly, but you guessed that soul mates were something bigger, much more profound. Someone you loved and knew deeper than summer romances and puppy love.

“We have,” Jin spoke up this time.

“Oh,” You said, eyebrows coming together in confusion.

“But I kissed you, you must be now wondering,” Jin said. You nodded slowly in response.

“When you are near me, what sensations do you feel?” He asked.

You took a moment to gather your thoughts. “I feel like there is a current running through me, and the more I spend time with you and the closer in proximity to you I get, the stronger the feeling gets. My brain gets dizzy and hazy like I’ve had a few glasses of wine, and yet my acuity is still razor sharp. And when I touch you, it feels… weird.” You confessed. When I touch you it feels really good and it makes me want to touch you endlessly you added in your mind.

They shared a knowing glance before Namjoon spoke. “THAT is the feeling. THAT is knowing.”

“Huh?” You asked, cocking an eyebrow. “I thought knowing was more of an abstract concept, like wow it feels like I have known this person my whole life, I think I want to marry them someday.”

“In the movies, absolutely,” Namjoon agreed. “But those feelings are your soul, physically calling out to ours.”

“You’re kidding.” You said, unbelieving.

“Let me ask you this then,” Namjoon begins. “Yesterday when you were kissing Jin hyung, I bet it felt so, incredibly right, right?”

You looked at Jin. If you could be honest with yourself, you wanted to climb over this table and kiss him again. Maybe then he’d bend you over the table and take you right here, Namjoon’s hands on you helping bring you to completion- you cut yourself off before the thought can continue further.

Namjoon looked at you knowingly.

“So if I am to believe that what you are saying is correct, I am the soul mate to both of you.” You asked, matter of fact.

“We are suggesting that you are all of our soulmates,” Jin stated, looking at you seriously.

“As in, all 7 of you.” You asked again matter-of-factly.

They nodded in response.

You laughed, exasperated. “Bring out the cameras because this is un-fucking-believable. This has to be a joke.”

The serious expression on both of the boys’ faces says otherwise.

“I know this must be a lot to take in,” Jin said honestly. “It was a lot for me as well. And the others.”

“What?” You asked, confused again.

They share a look and Namjoon nods encouragingly before Jin speaks again.

“We are actually all mated to each other, all 7 of us.”

“Wow,” you breathed. “You guys are as close as you portray online.”

The pair chuckle at that.

“Me and Yoongi found each other first and from there we found different members at different times. Every member struggled with it in different ways, so you probably aren’t alone in anything you’re feeling right now.” Namjoon said.

“You said mated. What does it mean to be mated?”

“Oh, it just means that we marked each other.” Namjoon rolled up his sleeves, showing off two gashes, dark in coloration one next to the other. “We all have one. You can either accept the pairing and become marked, or reject it and become a single soul.”

“What is the marking process?” You ask.

“You don’t know?” Namjoon asks, before putting on a serious face. “In short it is a bonding ritual involving sex.”

You flushed red at that notion. “So if I wanted to be marked by each of you I would have to…” You trailed off, imagery and fantasy flooding your brain causing you to snap your knees closed. Namjoon looked away, swallowing hard.

“Yes,” Jin states plainly. “But there is a rejection process as well. None of us are familiar with it, but if that is the choice you’d want to make we’d happily assist you with that.”

“We should be a little more clear with you as well,” Namjoon looks at you again. “You have full choice and freedom in this case, but ultimately, now that you have found your soulmates, the empty, hollow feeling you will have when we are apart, and the buzzy electric feeling when we are together will become more and more unbearable as time goes on and if you don’t make your choice at all, it will drive you mad.”

“How long do I have to decide?”

“A few days, a week at maximum.” He answered earnestly.

“You are right this is a lot to take in.” You sighed heavily. “With all due respect, I know you based on some well-edited clips and your music. You are all attractive as hell don’t get me wrong, but I don’t know you, and intertwining your life with someone you have an entirely parasocial relationship with is, in a word, insane. And for you guys too, you don’t even know me.

“That is true, but we didn’t know any of the members that well when we went through the mating ritual,” Namjoon said with a shrug. “Besides, did you really think the universe was so unkind as to leave you without a way to break the bond? People can change, become abusive and cruel, and with or without your partner's consent you can break the mating bond at any time.”

That brought you some comfort. At least there was an ejection seat if the shit hit the fan.

“This is a lot to process,” you stated, rubbing your temples in frustration.

“I am the oldest, but I was the fourth to join,” Jin started. “When I found out I was pretty upset, I had a solid lifestyle going for me that I didn’t intend to give up.”

“How did you overcome that?” You asked.

“It was Namjoon that convinced me,” he said, gesturing at the younger man. “He asked me to get to know them. That the divines or the universe or fate had good intentions and I would be sorry if I didn’t at least try.”

“I was a bit heavy-handed and naive,” Namjoon cut in, embarrassed.

“At any rate,” Jin continued, “I resolved to give it a month. I wanted to date them, get to know them, you know?” He laughed. “I think I barely made it a week. Something about the all-consuming pull of your soul is hard to resist.”

“I bet…” was all you were able to mumble in response. “I feel bad,” You confessed. “About the whole getting-to-know-you thing.”

“What do you mean?” Namjoon asked.

“I think it’s fairly obvious that I am a fan,” you began, “and while I can’t claim to know you, I would certainly argue that I know each of you just a little more than you know me.”

“We have forever to get to know you,” Jin said with a wink. Namjoon elbowed him in response.

“For starters, I’m sure you understand that our public personas are different than our public ones,” Namjoon began “But put more politely, Jin is correct. In the way that some humans go through with arranged marriages that sometimes work out, sometimes something bigger than us calls us to make a leap of faith and trust that it works out.”

“That sounds like we are putting pressure on the situation. I think I speak for both of us when I say we meant to simply arm you with the most amount of information we can provide. Besides, on the getting-to-know-you front, we know more than you might think,” Jin said.

“Do tell.” You stated, raising an eyebrow. “It appears you somehow found out who I was, and further that I was a dance teacher.”

“I know you’re hiding some cute ears under all that hair,” Jin said with a lilt.

You instinctively reached up to make sure they were still in place. “How could you possibly…” you mumbled.

“The truth is,” Namjoon started, lowering his voice. “We aren’t exactly human either, and our, shall we call it, conditions, allow us to sense the energy of different creatures.”

“So you’ve known the whole time?” You asked, flabbergasted.

“Pretty much,” Jin stated.

“Sorry, that's just like, probably my biggest secret and it is just out there so I’m a little off-put. Not that it’s your fault just, in conjunction with everything…” You trailed off.

“We thought it important that you also knew,” Namjoon said. “That we are vampires.”

“Vampires?” You repeated. “All of you?”

“Yes,” He replied.

“No wonder you are all so unearthly attractive,” you mumbled under your breath.

They both chuckle at that.

“When we meet a soulmate, sometimes something darker, more carnal comes out. Vampires, once they are connected with their mates, can only feed off of them. All other blood becomes a virulent poison, so everything in a vampire’s body commands them to claim and mark their mate as soon as possible. Prevents their only food source from walking away.” Namjoon stated.

“That’s why I kissed you suddenly in the studio,” Jin explained. “It’s not that I didn’t want to already, but I had resolved to not make any physical contact with you until all of this had been laid out, but the way you were looking up at me, the feeling of your hand on my body, your smell in that warm, closed room…” he trailed off before clearing this throat. “It was too much to bear. It brought out that dark side and well, you were there. I’m sorry for doing that without giving you the proper context.”

“It’s fine,” You admitted. “Truthfully, I wanted you to kiss me, and I enjoyed it.” I wanted you to do more, you thought to yourself. “I was more hurt and confused when you, superhumanly I am now realizing, left with barely a word.”

Jin’s expression was nothing if not apologetic. “I realize that must have been upsetting, and again I’m sorry for that too.”

“But wait,” You began, tilting your head to the side. “If you are all vampires and are mated to each other, then do you drink each other’s blood? Do you even have blood in your body to drink? And if a vampire can only feed from their soulmate once they’re found, what happens if rejection occurs?”

“Yes and no,” Jin said. “It is actually a myth that vampires don’t have blood. The vampire toxin mutates the blood of the person being turned and makes it so it's the only way for the new body to get energy. Problem is, vampiric blood isn’t very nutritious and it takes forever to regenerate by itself, so we have to supplement with animal blood usually. It's barely edible, and not that much more nutritious but it's better than being dead.”

“Fascinating,” You said. “The universe really fucked you all over making you all mates and vampires then, huh.”

“Tell me about it,” said Namjoon.

“Well, what about my other question?” You asked.

They exchanged uncomfortable looks.

“You don’t have to worry about that,” Namjoon said gravely.

“I thought we were being honest with each other?” You asked, feeling slightly frustrated.

“We are, it’s just…” Namjoon sighed. “It would add stress to a stressful and confusing situation and I don’t want you to worry about it.”

“Well, now I am worried!” You exclaimed.

A few beats of silence passed between you all.

“Just tell her, Joon,” Jin said.

Namjoon sighed at that. “When a vampire is rejected, or when a vampire’s bond is severed, the vampire dies. Jin mentioned that we can subsist on animal blood for nutrition, but what he didn’t mention, is that the consumption of energy is also part of what vampires consume when they eat blood, and once you find your soulmate, it is only their energy you can subsist off of.”

“So you’re saying…” You trail off, flabbergasted, before starting again. “You’re saying should I choose to reject you all, I am dooming you to starve to death and die.”

“You understand why I was reluctant to tell you.”

You put your head in your hands, head spinning with the information dump of the last hour. How could it be in just 48 hours you went from a passing fan to suddenly, apparently, being the deciding factor whether or not BTS dies? It was too much to handle, and with the added pressure, you felt like your head was going to explode.

“I need time.” You managed to say.

“Perfectly understandable,” The pair agreed.

“I have to go, I think,” You said, starting to stand up. “It was lovely to meet you but being so close is messing with my mind a little.”

“By all means,” Namjoon said. “Don’t worry about the check, it’s the least we can do.”

“Okay, thank you.” You said, standing fully now. “You have my phone number, text me any time, I guess. Bye.” You began somewhat robotically walking away from the two men who had just turned your life upside down, out of the restaurant, and into the cool early night air.

You walked for hours, the outside had always been a place of meditation and peace for you. Your mind swam, full of questions and concerns. On one side, your heart soared at the chance to be with BTS, by all appearances they were hot, funny, kind, and interesting people that just about anyone would sell their grandma to be with. On the other side, you worried. About how you didn’t really know them personally, how they didn’t know you, how stupid and impractical it was to make a life promise to someone you barely knew let alone 7 someones, and most importantly, it concerned you how loudly something deep within you called for you to accept them. Now, there was the added pressure of not killing them. If only you were here, you sighed inwardly. You’d tell me what I should do.

Somehow, you found yourself full, your feet sore, and no closer to a conclusion. You collapsed on your bed, exhausted, sleep finding you and carrying you off as soon as your eyes closed.

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seoul-bros · 6 months

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Hope on the Street - People Part 2

Rap line homage continues in Episode 4 with J-Hope in Paris, dancing house to People Part 2.

TwiX Link

J-Hope really is the beating heart of BTS. When he said in his last live before enlistment that, he knew we loved them but that he loved them the same or even a bit more, he did not exaggerate.

Post Date: 04/04/2024

#jhope #hope on the street #paris #house #people part 2 #suga #IU

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moonsunbam · 3 months

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we dont talk enough about neuron, about how this song is full of emotions, of hope, of desire to fight, FULL OF DETERMINATION. every time i listen to it i get so emotional, i think about changing the world, i think about my community and how i love you all. this song is just so beautiful and i feel so changed and inspired after i hear. i love you hoseok for being so good of an artist

#bts #bts hoseok #bts jhope #jhope #this song someday will be part of a big revolution against capitalism. mark my words #Spotify

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arkhonarchive · 1 year

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sometimes inspiration takes the form of a pinterest board filled with kpop reaction images

#i still wanna make a part 2 #stray kids #bts #skz fanart #bts fanart #the hyunjin & jk staring at each other across the room energy is my fave part of this #hyunjin #jungkook #han jisung #jhope #taehyung #yoongi #tae sip pic is one of my most used personally #the ar(t)chive

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crystalsnow95z · 1 year

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Part 1. I suggest reading it to understand this story

(It was easy to write in the beginning but the end got hard. Hopefully it turned out well)

Jimin has gotten violently attacked by an anti, leaving him physically and mentally broken. If you aren't okay with psychological stories, turn back now.

Yoongi was up late, working on the ending of his latest song. He tried to sleep twice already, but he couldn't fall asleep. Not with everything that happened that day. I wonder if the others managed to sleep.. I want Namjoonie to look over the changes I made to it..

"I'm sorry.." Jimin whimpers in his sleep, making Yoongi rush into his room, forgetting completely about work.

"Jimin-ah..Jimin-ah, I'm here.." Yoongi takes a seat on the bed.

Jimin didn't respond to him, still trapped in his nightmare.

"No, Jinnie-hyung.. don't leave, I'm sorry.." Jimin clings to Jin's arm.

"There's not much point. I'm just a visual.. You do all the high parts, and if I do the lower parts, then what will that leave Taehyung? No. It's okay. I'll go solo.." Jin pulls away.

"Hyung, please don't go." Jungkook's lip quivers as tears flow down his cheeks. "You can have some of my parts. I don't mind.. just please stay..?"

Jimin tried to offer his parts, but no voice came out. All he could do was watch his members cry as Jin continued to grow farther away.

"Jimin-ah!" Yoongi shakes him awake.

Jimin's eyes fly open, fighting to catch his breath. His body was covered in a cold sweat, his heart pounding wildly against his chest.

"Jiminie, it's okay. It was just a dream.." Yoongi speaks in a soft, soothing tone, wiping the sweat from Jimin's brow.

"Hyung...?" Jimin blinks, trying to process reality again. He was in his room, not Jin's and it was only him and Yoongi in the room. "I..i..I'm sorry..d..did I w..wa..wake you?"

"No, I was already up. Don't worry about that. Do you want to talk about it?" Yoongi asks gently.

Jimin shakes his head. "I..I..want Seokjinnie-hyung.."

"Seokjinnie hyung? But I'm..ah...I'll go get him.." Yoongi quickly back peddled when he heard a sob escape from Jimin. "Wait here, I'll only be a minute. Close your eyes, I'm going to turn on a light."

Jimin covers his face as Yoongi turns on the light, letting his eyes adjust slowly to the new lignt source. Yoongi felt his heart tighten and his stomach drop when he sees Jimin's distraught face.

"I'll be back.." Yoongi promises, leaving the bedroom, urgently knocking on Jin's door. "Hyungie..Hyungie, can I come in? It's an emergency.."

"Yoongi...?" Seokjin's voice was raspy from sleep. Yoongi took his reply as permission to enter the room. "What's wrong?" He blinks sleepily, trying to adjust his eyes to the darkness.

"Hyung Jimin needs you.. I think he had a bad dream about you.. he doesn't want me, and he's crying." Yoongi informs Jin, instantly waking him up.

"Jiminah is crying?" He quickly gets up, sprinting to Jimin's room. "Honey, I'm here, don't cry.." Jin gently climbs onto the bed, gasping in surprise when Jimin wraps around his waist, burying his face in Jin's broad shoulder.

"Do' le..le.ave H.hyung.." Jimin sobs incoherently.

"Leave? Baby, I'm not going anywhere. I'll stay here as long as you need me to." Jin gently rubs his hand across Jimin's back. "You're burning up.."

"Don..Don't le..leave..I'm sorr..sorry.." Jimin says with hiccupy gasps, soaking Jin's shirt. "Im..I'm sorr..sorry.." His whole body shakes as he sobs, clinging to Jin as if his life depended on it.

"What are you sorry for, Minnie? You haven't done anything wrong..please just try to take a deep breath, i can't understand you.." Jin forces Jimin to sit up to make it easier to breathe, rubbing his hand up and down Jimin's arm.

Jimin tries to obey, but he couldn't stop the tears from streaming, coughing violently. "Hurts.."

"Jiminie I know, I know baby, you gotta calm down.. please.." Jin rubs Jimin's shoulders, kissing the top of his head. "You poor thing.."

"Hyung, is there anything I can do to help?" Yoongi says from the doorway, watching helplessly.

"I'm not going anywhere, i promise.. don't cry.. you're breaking my heart.."Jin tried to use sweet words to console Jimin, but nothing was getting through to him. "Could you get me some water and some fever reducers? He's going to dehydrate.." Jin sends Yoongi off, softly humming to Jimin since his words weren't getting through to him.

Jimin sniffles, slowly calming down, taking deep, shaky breaths, whimpering through the pain. "Mnnn..Hyung..I don't feel well.."

"I know, sweetie.." Jin coos, wiping the tears from Jimin's cheeks with the back of his thumb. "Good, good.. deep breaths.. that's it.."

"I'm sorry.." Jimin sniffles. "I..I'm good now.."

"Here, drink some water, Jimin.." Yoongi sits on the other side of Jimin, careful not to bump into Jimin's injuries. He opens the water bottle, pressing it by his lips.

Jimin drinks eagerly, trying to soothe his sore throat. "Thanks, Hyungie.."

"No problem.. do you think you can take some medicine for me?" Yoongi asks,tucking a strand of wet hair behind Jimin's ear.

"Okay.." Jimin leans back against his eldest hyung, still struggling to catch his breath.

Yoongi shakes out a pill, popping it into Jimin's mouth, giving him another sip of water to help him swallow it down.

"HyU.."Jimin's voice cracks when he tries to speak, clearing it to try again. "Hyungie..?"

"What is it baby?" Jin asks gently.

"Are you happy..?" Jimin asks in a small voice.

"Huh? Happy?" Jin blinks slowly, perplexed by his sudden question. "Why would I be happy when my baby brother is suffering?"

"No..no..i..mean..like..with how things are..as..mm..Nevermind.." Jimin buries his face in Jin's shoulder.

"As what Jiminie?" Jin tries to pry answers out of the vocalist, but Jimin stays silent. "I'm happy to be here with you..I'd do anything for you and the other members.. we're family.." he tried guessing what his problem was, but misses the mark.

I know hyung.. Even if that means living in my shadow..

"Jimin-Ah, look at me.." Jin takes Jimin's chin gently, ignoring the feeling of his stomach fluttering when he sees Jimin's injured face. "I'm happy with you and the others. Okay? I'm not going anywhere."

Jimin nods, hugging onto Jin. I'll do better to give you and Taehyungie more time in the spotlight..

"Good..now try to get some sleep.. okay? I'll stay right here all night." Jin slowly gets into a laying position.

"I will too..if you want.." Yoongi feels blood rush to his cheeks, embarrassment washing over. He didn't want to leave Jimin, even though he knew Jin could handle it without him. He wouldn't be able to get a wink of sleep worrying on if Jimin was alright in the other room.

"Thanks, Hyungie.. I'd like that.." Jimin manages the smallest of smile.

"Jimin-ah...Jiminie, I have to go.. please get off.." Yoongi woke up to Jimin laying on his chest, his injured hand resting on his shoulder his wrapped leg thrown over him. He didn't know how he'd get free without hurting him. "Hyung I need help, stop taking photos." Yoongi whines.

Jimin was completely knocked out, the mixture of his fever, pain, and mental breakdown, leaving him completely drained.

"I'm sorry, it's just rare to find you cuddling with the other members. I got photos before you woke up." Jin smiles when Yoongi rolls his eyes at him.

"You're getting as bad as Hoba.. just help me move him.." Yoongi whines softly.

Jin puts his phone away, gently taking Jimin's arm by the elbow and straightening against his side. That was easy. Moving his leg was another story. Jimin whimpers in his sleep as Jin lifts his leg, trying to gently move him onto his back without hurting him.

"Do you need help?" Namjoon asks from the door frame.

"Yeah, I need to get him off Yoongi, but be very careful. I need you to make sure his arm doesn't move while I roll him off." Jin tells Namjoon earning himself a pout.

"I can be careful." Namjoon helps Jin move Jimin safely. "How did you even end up like this?"

"I don't know, he was cuddled up to Hyung before I fell asleep, but sometime last night, he switched over to me." Yoongi quickly moves off the bed, wincing at his numb leg from Jimin's dead weight. "Ahugh...my legs asleep.."

"You'll be okay.." Jin smiles.

"How's Jiminie?" Taehyung asks, still looking half asleep, J-hope following behind him, trying to tame his wild bed head.

"Did you both sleep in here last night?" J-Hope adds in.

"He's running a fever now, but at least he's asleep.." Yoongi sighs, looking at Jimin asleep on the bed. "I really don't want to leave him.."

"I know, I don't either, but we have no choice.." Namjoon felt Yoongi's pain. Seeing Jimin breathing heavily on the bed made his heart ache. "But we'll leave to go home the second we can. Alright? We have to be professional. We've worked with missing members before."

"Where's Jungkook?" Jin asks, noticing the youngest missing.

"He's with staff, talking their ear off about Jimin's likes and dislikes with food last I saw him." J-Hope is the one to answer.

"I'll join him and explain what happened last night." Jin leaves the room, finding the two staff members assigned to watch over Jimin while they went the award show, bowing deeply. "Thank you for doing this.."

"It's not a problem." Jeong bows back to Jin. "After finding him like that, I wanted to be sure he was okay anyway.."

The boys rush around to get ready, Yoongi doing a head count. "Where's Taehyungie and Namjoon-ah? We need to get going. The van is waiting for us.." Yoongi tries to gather the members.

"Jiminie is in good hands, and I'm sure they'll call if there's any change.." Yoongi hears Jungkook's voice in the doorway to Jimins room.

"What are they doing in there? They'll wake him up." Yoongi goes to scold them, but Jin stops him.

"I'll go gather them..You go to the van."Jin goes into the room, pushing Jungkook out towards the door. "Go on. Go keep Yoongi company in the car."

Taehyung was on the bed with Jimin, Namjoon standing on the other side, giving Jimin fever medicine. "I thought he was asleep.."

"He had another bad dream.." Taehyung informs Jin lightly, holding Jimin to his chest. "I wish I didn't have to go.. I'd stay here and watch movies with you." He pouts, pushing a strand of hair behind Jimin's ear.

"I know. I know. It's okay. You can't disappoint army.. I'm okay.. i don't even remember the dream.." He turns to Namjoon, accepting the medicine with a hard swallow.

"Here, drink some water." Namjoon opens a waterbottle holding it by Jimin's lips.

"Come on, kids, it's time to go. He'll be in good hands..." Jin pulls Namjoon by the back of his shirt, going to the other side of the bed to gather Taehyung, pulling him by the arm.

"I'll be back as soon as I can Jimin-ah! Text me if you get lonely!" Taehyung promises Jimin as he's forced out of the room.

Jimin watches his members leave, waving goodbye with a fake smile. "Don't worry, I'll be fine. I'm probably going to be asleep most of the time.. I'm still tired.."

None of the members believed him, but they had no choice but to go. Taehyung could still hear his heart racing when he was getting off the bed.

Jimin drops his tough guy act as soon as they are out of earshot, his breath hitching, getting caught in his throat. I hope I didn't mess up their concentration.. I already messed up the formation..

Jimin curls up on his side, hearing his phone ding with several messages.

Hwaiting Jiminie.

Already miss you

Try to eat a little while we're gone.

Jimin flips his phone over, their encouraging words and worry only making him feel worse.

I don't deserve their kind words.. not when I've been holding them back..

"Jimin-sii? Are you awake? I heard you coughing..."

Jimin hardly hears the whisper of staff in the doorway of his room. They've been extremely attentive since the other members left, watching movies and playing games with him until he fell asleep.

When did I fall asleep? What time is it?

"I'm awake.." Jimin answers groggily, checking his phone for the time. "The show. We'll be performing... They'll be on soon. Can we watch it?"

"You want to see the show?" Jeong asks, unsure on if he should allow it, but seeing Jimin's eyes showing a little bit of life for the first time all day made him give in. "If you think you're up for it, you must eat, though.."

"I'll eat while we watch.. I'll be fine.. i can't remember the last time I just watched the others perform.." Jimin wanted to be sure his absence wouldn't ruin the show,moving to get up to go to the living room.

"Please be careful.." Jeong quickly rushed to Jimin's side to support his weight. "Slowly.."

"I know.. I know.." Jimin hardly puts any weight on his injured ankle. "Thank you.." he takes a seat on the couch, setting the TV to the correct channel.

"It's still Exo.. good.. I didn't miss any.. when did Kai dye his hair silver? It looks great on him.." Jimin watches them perform, frowning when he notices he slept through most of the performance.

"Here Jimin-sii, I made you some Bibimbap.." The second guard places a tray in front of Jimin, having false hope to see Jimin acting like himself again. That's all it was. An act.

"Thank you.." Jimin bows, taking a bite. "It's good.." He gets a few more bites in while the lights are off for his members to prepare, J-hope appearing on screen for his solo dance. "He looks so cool..."

Everything was fine until his solo dance started, him seeing Taehyung in his place. "Oh wow.. How is he doing so well with such little practice..Did he just memorize it by watching me?"

He's so talented, but it's always me, Jungkook, and Hobi-hyung that get the longer dance breaks.. I can hardly believe that's the same boy that was just hugging me tightly earlier.. I can see why the next generation looks up to him..

Jimin watches Taehyung moving on stage, being reminded that there was a difference between his Tete and V the kpop idol.

"Don't worry, you'll heal up quickly.. you're still young. You'll be back on stage again." Jeong misread the look on Jimin's face, mistaking his guilt for longing.

"Yeah.." Jimin says, pretending to be distracted by the performance. The boys left Jimin's spot open throughout the whole performance, reminding him how often he gets center, his own self-loathing, making it seem like much more than it really was.

"Maybe we should turn it off and watch something else." Staff suggests, but Jimin keeps his hand firmly on the remote. "No, no, it's almost over.. I want to finish it.."

"Everyone together.. Get well soon Jimin-ah!" Taehyung's voice surprises Jimin, tears swelling up when he hears hundreds of voices screaming after him, including all his members.

"I can't believe he has the courage to yell like that in the middle of a performance.." Jimin smiles through the tears, seeing the Taehyung he grew up with, a boxy smile on his face as he makes a heart clearly meant for him.

"It wouldn't be the first time." Jeong gives Jimin a tissue.

"Thank you.." Jimin dabs his eyes, turning off the TV. "I'm still not feeling well.. I want to lay down a bit more.."

"Of course.. do you just want to lay on the couch or should we get you to bed?"

"I'm fine here..." Jimin slides down on the couch, Jeong gently pulling his injured ankle into his lap to give it some elevation.

There's no winning.. If I go, Taehyung will lose his smile.. they all will.. but if I stay, they won't be able to grow..

Jimin did you see the performance?

J-hope texts as soon as they get off stage into the green room.

Yeah, I saw it. Taehyungie did my part better than I did in all the practices. He should've gotten it in the first place..

Jimin replies, surprised by the flurry of responses he got back.

What? No, I was so nervous I moved too quickly. Luckily, since we never did it live before the audience won't know..

Taehyung replies.

He almost backed out of it because he was scared. I had to drag him from the bathroom.

It was Yoongi who replied next.

I felt sick to my stomach.. I didn't want to mess up Jiminie's part.. I'm glad you think I did well. It makes me happy.

Taehyung answers.

You wouldn't have been so nervous if you had more solos. I'm sorry, Tae. It's my fault..

Jimin wanted to tell him everything, but he couldn't risk making him cry. Not when there was a chance of them winning the award.

Jimin, what are you talking about? I think you should try to sleep more. Oh! Before you go. Check the socials. They'll help you cheer up.

Taehyung texts.

Socials?

Jimin gets on Twitter, the hashtags filled with things like #GetWellSoonJimin, #WeLoveYouJimin, and #WeMissYouMochi along with praise about BTS' performance.

They miss you already, Jiminie and so do we. It's not the same without you.

Jin texts.

Then I'll have to stay, but I want to stay out of the center for a bit.

Jimin texts, feeling guilty for even considering leaving. I'll have to work harder to share the spotlight. I can't leave my brothers, and I don't think they'd even let me..

Don't worry about that man. We'll keep you safe. Just like when you got threats before. We'll talk more when we get home, okay? No more secrets. Sleep for now..

With one last text from Yoongi, Jimin puts his phone away. We can work this out. We were able to get Taehyung recognized as being a part of the dance line,I just need to get Jin the main vocalist role instead of me..

Ideas swam in his head to try to put himself in the shadows, making him feel dizzy.

"Jimin-sii, I think you should put your phone away.. you aren't looking well.. I think you've had enough excitement for today.." Jeong suggests lightly, holding out his hand to take it.

Jimin hands it over, used to giving his phone to staff, throwing his arm over his face, falling into a dreamless sleep

Later that evening, the members return all piling into their home. His heart ached to see their happy faces, knowing what was about to come. He couldn't keep hiding it.

"We did a clean sweep, Jimin-hyung!" Jungkook proudly shows Jimin the trophies when he sees him slowly sitting up on the couch. "Did you see?"

"No, I went to sleep after the performance. I'm feeling a lot better now though" Jimin answers with a smile, not wanting to ruin his good mood.

"You look like you gained some color back." Namjoon reaches to touch Jimin's forehead. "They did well taking care of you."

"So what was this talk about 'you'll stay then?' " Jungkook asks with concern. It was all he could think about since he saw the message.

This doesn't involve him.. He's the lead vocalist... "Oh, i typed wrong..i was still pretty feverish then.. i meant stay like...resting and taking it easy on the sidelines until i recovered more.." jimin says casually. He had plenty of time to think of an excuse.

"That's all? What a relief.." Jungkook smiles. "So what-"Jimin's stomach growling stops Jungkook mid sentence. "Did you eat?"

"I tried to, but my stomach was upset earlier..hey Jungkook I know you just got back, but could you make me those noodles you made me last time?"

"Huh? Sure. Whatever you want, hyung." The Mankae runs to the kitchen.

"Alright Jimin, what was that last text about for real? That story might work on Jungkook, but i know thats bullsh*t" Yoongi sits on the bed next to him, getting right to the point.

"Yeah Jiminie, something has been bothering you.. I know it.." Taehyung sits on the other side.

"Are you afraid to go back in public?" Jin tries to guess when Jimin stays silent.

"No, no..it's about..about what that man said, I know..I know I can't leave.. this is my home.. we belong together.. but he made me realize.. Jinnie Hyung.. you and Taehyungie sing much better than I can, I should be a sub vocalist not you guys.."

"What? Is that what this is about? Jiminah, you shouldn't be so hard on yourself.." Jin knew exactly how he felt about not being good enough. He had no prior singing or dancing experience before joining and always felt like he wasn't good enough compared to the others.

Honestly, some days, he still felt that way.

"We chose roles as a group. You were chosen for your talent. I saw it the moment I heard you sing.. you've improved so much since then.. you deserve where you are." Yoongi explains to Jimin, looking at the others to back him up.

"Jiminie, you're my best friend, I'm happy where I am.. sure, in the beginning, I wished I had more lines, but I'm perfectly content with just backing you and the others up. I'm happy with just performing all together." Taehyung cuddles into Jimin's cheek. "Don't worry about me, okay? I'll tell you if I'm ever unhappy. "

"I feel the same, I don't care how many parts I have as long as we can sing together." Jin reassures him.

"Don't let one person get to you. You were destined to be where you are now. Don't let anyone tell you any different, but if it really bothers you that much, we can keep it in mind for the future, okay?" Namjoon wipes Jimin's tears.

Jimin nods, unable to get the tears to stop flowing. He had been worried for nothing. "Thank you.."

"I love you, Jiminie. We all do. Don't forget that.." Namjoon tells him. "We'll figure this out together."

(Sorry about the ending. I redid it five times and I didn't like any of them. This open ended one is the best without it seeming too forced)