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chimcess · 1 year ago

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→ Chapter Seven: Growing Pains Pairing: Jimin x Reader Other tags: Werewolf!Jimin, Witch!Reader, Shifter!Reader, Shifter!Jimin, A/B/O Dynamics, Alpha!Jimin Genre: Supernatural!AU, Werewolf!AU, Angst, Mutual Pining, Fluff, Smut, Word Count: 11.6k+ Synopsis: Within the four realms of Lustra lay the Bangtan forest home to the Foxglove pack of the south and known as the “land of magic.” It is also home to the Bridd, a powerful witch from a cursed bloodline who is one of the sacred guardians of the forest. Y/N is the newest Bridd, a young girl who was given her position too early. Now a woman, Y/N is revered amongst the wolves as the most powerful witch they have ever known, but hiding under the surface is a woman who has to battle between her duty and her heart. Warnings: ANGST BB, hurt, argument, sexism, I love/hate Bo, strong language, crying, PTSD, Impulsive decisions, I love Taehyung so much, he is my sweet baby angel, we need better communication skills, mentions of a toxic relationship (not reader and Jimin), Anger issues, mental illness, long hair Jimin for the win, emotional turmoil, conflicting feelings, emotional whiplash, talks of possible character death, let me know if I missed anything A/N: Not me surprising dropping. This was such a difficult chapter to write. I enjoy angst and everything, and this was meant to be the catalyst to the adventure we need to take, but that doesn't mean I like causing pain. Hope you guys like it!

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Bo and I stared at one another. Her jaw was clenched, and I could feel how tense my eyebrows were. We had been in this room for over an hour already and her stupid training was going nowhere. I did not want to learn how to talk to my husband properly. He enjoyed how I was already.

“Why are you making this so difficult?” She spat.

“Because I can,” I taunted.

Her mouth twitched and I waited for her to finally snap. I would like a good fight to get all of my pent up frustration out. Instead, she took another deep breath and told me to point out the proper soup spoon.

“This is the dumbest thing I have ever done in my life,” I mumbled and pointed at the smallest one in the set.

“And you’re the dumbest thing that’s come into mine,” She bit back.

“This is really unnecessary, Bo,” Sol sighed from beside me. “Y/N has better things to do than sit here and look at silverware. None of us even use these anymore.”

I looked at her and hoped she could see how grateful I was she was sitting here with me. When Bo showed up at Jimin’s house this morning, the Luna had followed behind her every step of the way hoping we could put the traditional nonsense behind us. I did not see the point in following their customs more than I already did and Sol herself said no one really cares about certain formalities anymore. Jimin seemed sad to watch me go but more pleased than he let on. Sol said these preparations were meant for our wedding and it made him happy to think about. That was the only reason I was still sitting here.

“I’m sure Oxur Park knows how much Alpha Park loves a woman with knowledge,” The wolf gave me a satisfied smirk. “Unless you’ve decided to take that from him, too.”

Bo had made it her mission to get me out of their palace. Believing I had somehow tricked Jimin into loving me, the wolf had no issue calling our bond into question. Apparently, her outdated beliefs ran much deeper than I had originally thought. Either way, she was beginning to make my life all the more difficult. I had enough going on as it was.

“You are the most infuriating woman I have ever had the displeasure of meeting.”

“And you are the sneakiest little weasel I have ever laid eyes on,” Bo hissed.

“You’re both acting like children,” Sol laughed. “Bo, can’t we go now? I promised my husband alone time with his friend.”

With a satisfied smirk, I leaned back in my chair. Bo was not happy with the girl, but Taehyung’s wishes overruled her own. The perks of being the pack alpha, I guess. I did not wait for Bo’s response before standing up. Sol followed me.

“I expect you in your own room tonight, child.”

I did not respond. Sol giggled and grabbed hold of my arm as we left the palace library. If I had come here on my own, I might have admired the massive shelves and the beautiful wood they were made from, but Bo’s presence ruined whatever joy I might have gotten. She was such a pain to deal with. Knowing my foul mood, Sol began babbling about her and Taehyung’s wedding for the third time today.

“Oh, I wish you could have been there,” She pouted. “Taehyung wanted to wait for you to wake up, but all of us decided it would be in his best interest to hurry along. I hope you’re not upset with us.”

That worked and I cracked a smile.

“How many times do I have to tell you? I’m not upset about it.”

Leaning into my side, the younger girl sighed happily. She always got like this when she spoke of Taehyung. He was akin to God in her eyes now and it was a funny sight to see. She was always so stuck up and stressed when I had known her that this new version of her was strange to see. She laughed and joked with others in a way I had never seen before. Taehyung was the perfect match for the Luna, and I was pleased with how happy they both were despite everything going on.

“You’ll have to forgive Ha-Joon,” Sol waved at a small group of maids. “She’s just always pictured her daughter with Jimin, and her death has brought out the worst in her. Don’t take it too personally, okay?”

“Easy for you to say,” I murmured, “She doesn’t hate you.”

The group of maids stopped to bow. I returned the gesture, but Sol did not. She was never raised to respect her help. Tossing a small smile at the women, my eyes caught a familiar face and warmed. Koda grinned happily back at me.

“Oh!” Sol exclaimed suddenly. “Isn’t this the most coincidental situation?”

Stepping away from my side, the wolf gestured to the group. None of them make eye contact with the Luna. None of them even looked at her face. I could not understand how no one thought this was strange behavior, but it was the status quo. Hopefully I could speak with Taehyung about it. I do not think he would approve of this behavior at all.

“I was speaking with Elder Kim, and we decided that you need a servant,” Sol announced. “This group should do. See anyone you like in particular?”

She was completely serious. Not a shred of doubt or shame was written on her face. Sol was raised with this nonchalant way of ordering others around and it was disturbing to see in action. I would definitely speak to Taehyung. However, I could not deny the perks I saw. Looking at Koda, I knew I would be able to keep her safe as long as I kept her by my side. Giving the women a sympathetic look, I turned to Sol with a mask of indifference.

“If you think it’s necessary,” She smiled brightly. “Koda,” I looked at the older woman, “would you like to help me while I stay here?”

The woman walked to the front of the group. The other maids made space and suddenly none of them looked at me either. It was a horrible feeling and I wondered what they thought of me now. Wanting to make my intentions clear, I kept talking.

“Also, Sol,” I looked at my friend, “I don’t like the word 'servant'.’ Can we use something less… harsh? Like ‘companion?’ I don’t plan on staying here for very long so it just seems too,” I moved my hands and tried to find the softest explanation I could think of, “permanent.”

I was choosing my words carefully. Sol has never had her views challenged much and these women had been at her beck and call her entire life, so it was only natural she thought of them a particular way. I wanted to change her mind, but it would have to start with something small. The other maids seemed to relax, and their eyes wandered freely once more. I never wanted them to feel inferior to me.

“Hmm,” She cupped her chin, “I’ve never thought of that before. I like it.”

Turning her gaze to Koda, she grinned, “You will spend every moment at Oxur Park’s side. Under no circumstances will you leave her, understand?”

“Yes, Luna,” She bowed deeply. “Will I sleep in her chambers?”

“No!” I exclaimed. Flushing, I rubbed the back of my neck and bowed my head. “That won’t be necessary. I will be with Alpha Park during the night.”

Sol laughed heartily, “You’re just breaking all of the rules, aren’t you?”

I awkwardly joined her, “Might as well give her a reason for her dislike, don’t you think?”

Sol immediately dismissed the maids, Koda included, so we could continue our walk. Koda would be joining me tonight for my bath. I cringed at the thought and started to think of ways to talk to her about what I was expecting, or rather, not expecting her to do. I could do everything I needed on my own and had for many years of my life. I saw no need for someone else to bathe, dress, or tuck me in at night. Jimin would be the exception, but he was my partner and had seen me more intimately than others.

Sol continued to talk my ears off as we walked through the palace. I was still unnerved by how easily she commanded her maids. It was creepy. I could not picture Taehyung feeling comfortable by their pampering either, but would he ever say something that would offend his wife? It was difficult to say.

I knew the other alphas had lived in the palace at points in their lives, and from what I had heard, Namjoon was still here full time. Unmated alphas were meant to stay in the palace until they were mated so they could be trained into leaders. Scowling, I thought of Ahn and his thick, white beard and how little help he was to everyone. No one ever spoke of him or his teachings, and Sol did not even seem bothered by her father-figure’s death. It gave me a sick sort of pleasure knowing that no one, possibly not even Bo, thought of him in a good light.

The repairs to the palace were the first to be completed. The elves had focused primarily on the civilian areas, and since the palace was the only place made of stone, the flames that ate away at the wooden homes in the main parts of the village. We had been seeing a great deal of progress in only four days, but there was still much to do. The town’s market was nowhere in sight, and they had only just gotten their water system back up.

“What does Taehyung want to talk about?” I asked.

Sol had started a childhood story involving Ahn that I had no desire to hear.

“I’m not sure exactly,” She admitted, “He said he was hoping you two could go for a walk and catch up. It’s been a while since you’ve been alone.”

I nodded and pretended to listen as she jumped into another childhood story. Sol was a rather clumsy child. Looking at the dark stone, I felt my resentment growing. No one except for Taehyung had left to help the others. Not Kim nor Bo left their comfortable confines to help their community and yet they had time to talk about my manners and which servant I would get? It all seemed ridiculous to me. Even Sol herself was still living in la-la-land within these walls. Had she even seen what was done?

“You must promise to be our first child’s matrina,” Sol was talking about children. Again. Her unusual sense of pessimism was beginning to agitate me. “You are the only person I can think of I would trust with that honor.

“Of course, Jungkook will have to be the patrinus, but I don’t think it will bother Jimin too much. He’s far too much like a brother to ask anybody else. Maybe for our second child? Taehyung would be overjoyed if you were both involved.”

I gritted my teeth and simply nodded along with her stories. Yes, a conversation with Taehyung was a must. Maybe he could make her see reason, or at least show concern for everyone else. At meetings she lounged on him like a cat and never paid attention when they spoke about serious matters. It was like her head was permanently up in the clouds. Had she always been so careless when it came down to things, or was this a new development since she joined Taehyung? I would never know the true extent of the answer, but I had to believe this was new. Sol was too serious before to let this kind of behavior out.

The large, cathedral windows let in the bright sun, but it was still so cold and dark in here. The maids had yet to fix the lighting fixtures inside yet, but even the candles they had lit did nothing to help. Our steps had a faint echo to them, and it made the lifelessness of the palace worse. I felt Sol’s hair brushing against my arm as she made herself comfortable at my side and had to stop myself from moving it out of my way. It was tickling my skin uncomfortably.

Sol let her hair out in the palace unlike any place else. The long, thick, black waves cascading down her back effortlessly, but I knew better now. Someone had spent a great deal of time and care perfecting the way it felt and twisted. Around her neck was the material she used to cover her hair and she would put it on if another man showed up here. It was something Ahn had made her do that made no sense to me either, but Sol was happy about it, so I never thought about it much.

“Koda is a wonderful woman,” Sol suddenly gushed, catching my attention. “You’ll like her very, very much.”

“What makes you say that?” I questioned, feigning disinterest.

“Well,” She started, “She was once a warrior before her sister died. She stopped shifting soon after that and moved into the palace so she could have a place to stay. Her sister’s husband kept their house and Koda was too uncomfortable to live there with him alone.

“Oh! I know she’s from out of town, so you can share many stories about that as well. The people from Viridi Gramine always have the most interesting lives. Take Hyuna for example, she’s the princess of her people and yet gave it all up for a life here with Hoseok. Isn’t it romantic?”

I stopped listening to her once again. It was useful information, and my interest only grew for the older woman. If she was from the Foxglove’s cousin pack that meant she would know a route through the Ozryn mountains. Hiding my revelation, I subtly picked up my pace. The sooner I got this meeting over with, the sooner I could find Cadoc.

“She will be a wonderful companion for you to have,” Sol teased, placing extra emphasis on the chosen word. “I think I’ll start using that one as well. Servant does sound too harsh.”

I smirked in amusement. It was difficult to dislike Sol, especially when it seemed like she was having the most fun she had ever had. I imagined living with someone like Ahn was challenging. Still, her innocence and naivety were so odd when compared to her position in the pack. She was treated like glass that could shatter at any moment while held up as if she were a queen.

We descended down the large staircase in a companionable silence. That was rare for Sol, but I was sure as soon as our feet touched the first floor, she would start her rambling once more. It seemed like luck was on my side, however. Taehyung stood waiting for us, his eyes never leaving Sol’s little body. His happiness was enough to let go of my discomfort for Sol. She would learn in time, and Taehyung would be there to guide her. I would just steer him in the right direction.

The clothes he wore were much nicer than anything I had ever owned. Navy blue silk contrasted beautifully with his tanned skin while the nearly black pants he wore extended his legs. He wore a pair of simple black boots and a matching belt. It was nice to see him so clean and dressed up. Soon we would not have those luxuries.

“Thanks for bringing her, mi conjunx.”

Sol bit her lip and looked down, “Of course, mi coniunx.”

“Bridd,” Taehyung smiled at me, breaking whatever spell he had been under, “May I take you for a small walk alone? I have something I need to discuss with you.”

“That’s why I’m here,” I squeezed Sol’s shoulder and walked down the last few stairs that separated us.

It looked like Taehyung was physically pained to leave Sol’s side, but he showed as much restraint as possible. I heard her feet pitter-pattering back up the steps and Taehyung’s shoulders relaxed. They had spoken and it was still a mystery to me how it worked. I would have to ask Jimin about it later.

We stayed silent until we were out of the palace and walking out of Foxglove entirely. He wanted privacy today, so I waited until he was ready to speak to begin my questioning.

“How are you holding up?” Taehyung asked once we were well hidden within the trees.

I sighed. Cordelia’s passing had affected all of us, and Taehyung was beside himself with grief. He had hardly known her, but he was fond of everyone he met at my cottage. I confided in him about finding her body this morning. He stole me away for a few moments to ask my advice on his plans to invite the witches to stay in the palace, and the sea witch was brought up in conversation. I could tell he would make it a point to ask me about my emotional state whenever he got me alone.

“The etiquette classes have me thoroughly distracted,” I replied sadly.

“And everyone else?”

“About as well as I am,” I muttered. “Wendy is in bad shape, but Seokjin is holding her close. I think they’re back in their confusing situationship again, which saddens me, but I understand. I can only hope it will be different this time.”

In truth, I had little hope. While Wendy may have decided she would choose Seokjin over Yoongi, I was also sure this budding relationship would fizzle out rather quickly. Wendy was once again latching onto the sun witch in a desperate attempt to make herself feel better, and like always, Seokjin would walk through fire to make her smile. I paid close attention to their dynamics, and it was reminiscent of old times. It was not lost on me, her lingering stare at Yoongi’s disabled figure laying on the floor near the fireplace during my short visit yesterday, and it made the pit in my stomach only grow.

Old habits die hard, and Wendy Byrd was too much of a daydreamer to put anything to rest. It made me uncomfortable to witness the same cycle play out once more. It sickened me to know the only reason she was not seeking out Yoongi was the fact that he was getting used to his new reality. One where he could no longer see. Seokjin was as hopelessly hopeful as always and put up those blinders once more. Life in pink so long as Wendy held him close. The front he had put up in my cottage so long ago was forgotten.

“They need to figure it out by themselves,” Taehyung replied. He was always telling me things I knew but I appreciated the sentiment. “I am curious about this sudden need to leave Bangtan.”

As always, Taehyung knew more than he led on. I did not know how he knew of my plans before I spoke to anybody else about them, but I was less surprised than I should have been. Cadoc and I had been completely alone in the forest that night, but if Taehyung was awake when we got back to the palace, he could have easily gotten an earful of whatever we were speaking about. I had learned during our time at my cottage that Taehyung’s sense of hearing was stronger than the other’s while Jimin’s smell and eyesight were almost double of what they should be.

“I should be far more surprised than I am,” I admitted. “You’re always such a nosey little minx, aren’t you?”

Taehyung chuckled with a nod. Nothing got past those eyes. I pondered over what to say to him. He always had a way of taking me by surprise and I knew Cadoc would not be upset with my slip of the tongue. No one would, actually. Looking at my friend, I reminded myself that he was my friend before he was the Alpha everyone else needed him to be. A man who loved to read my mythology books and ask questions about the forest creatures would never dare ask me to stay behind when there were adventures to be seen. I was also aware that he would be afraid of my loyalty.

Cadoc had said I was becoming blinded by it. Loyal to a fault. Jimin and I were still at odds about my trip, but he had become resigned. We both needed for this to happen. For the sake of our friends and family I needed to try. I had failed once already, and I could not fail again.

“Are you going to talk to me about your secrets now?”

“I’m not staying in Bangtan for much longer,” I whispered, knowing he would be able to hear me just fine. “I have a different task. Something important.”

“I had guessed as much,” He laughed, an easy smile on his face. “Jimin is far too distracted, and the Quietus keep whispering to each other,” He stopped walking and turned towards me. “So, Bridd, where are you going?”

Biting my lip, I hesitated. How angry would he be if I told the truth? Angry was a strong word, I conceded. Taehyung was never angry, but I did not think he would be pleased. I was blatantly placing my own life in danger and lying to my mate about it. It was almost enough to make me rethink my choices.

“I need to find someone,” I said, bracing myself for the disappointment that was sure to make itself known soon. “When I died, I saw my aunt in the spirit realm, and she told me that I had to seek out an elemental called Naida.”

Taehyung frowned at me, his concern evident, but not so much so. He was not disappointed, but I could see fear. I could live with that. I was also afraid for my own life, but dwelling on those thoughts would get me nowhere. I had a mission to complete, and I would not be late this time. I would win. I had to. For my own sanity I would go.

“Is Jimin aware of this?”

I shook my head, “Nothing specific. He knows my plan to leave, but with everything so fresh and new I don’t want to worry him needlessly.”

“You are planning on telling him,” He pushed, “Right?”

I nodded, “The plan is to leave at sunset tomorrow. I’ll have more coverage at night just in case there are elf camps in the forest.”

I thought about the elf camp Jimin stalked that first night and shuttered. There were so many of them out there who had not come into the village. It was baffling to me why they would hesitate in their fighting only to move on so quickly. It gave the wolves too much time to plan and strategize and I knew they were not foolish enough to think they had better odds now. The wolves were on guard. The only thing that made sense were allies hiding in our ranks. Allies who were telling them our every move.

“Tell me something,” I dropped my voice even lower. “If I promise you that I will come back with help, will you keep the truth from the others?”

Stopping in his tracks, Taehyung stared at me. Jimin said the two of them had been speaking of a possible traitor and I would hope my friend would understand my perspective. My loyalty to the both of them was all consuming, my love was my life, and I would do whatever it takes to help them. Even if it meant lying to the man I loved more than life itself.

“I can’t keep something like this from him, Y/N,” Taehyung sighed. “You are my friend, but so is Jimin, and you cannot ask me to pick one over the other.”

“Even with the spy?” I challenged.

He looked through me then, his eyes burning a hole into my face searching for something. I don’t think I would ever know what Taehyung saw in me that day, but whatever it was it gave him pause. I had never felt just how strong or large Taehyung was until that moment. His frame towered over mine, his legs long and lanky, and his face impassive. That impenetrable wall that I found so disconcerting.

“Even then,” He smiled at me. “I would never risk your life or Jimin’s friendship. Even if you begged me to keep quiet, I would let him know the moment you were out of my sight.”

And I could not stop my returning grin. This was what I loved most about the boy, his endless love and compassion for others. He played tricks, told jokes, and made my head hurt from his never ending questions, but he also adored me in ways I had never been before. He adored my brain, my thoughts, and my courage.

A memory of us in the cottage came back to me then. The sun had just come up and I had just gotten home. My training with Thelma had been brutal that night and I had hardly done anything, and my emotions were growing, expanding, and becoming harder to manage. Jimin was still asleep, his pale skin beautiful in the sun, and I did not want to disturb his peace.

When I went to the kitchen to make myself a cup of tea, I found Taehyung already up and a book in his lap. We had our typical small talk, a morning just like any other, but once I sat down at the dining table, I found him just watching me. The book was long gone, his face hard, and his eyes observing me. Those eyes that took in everything they possibly could. I wondered then if he knew what I was doing, where I was going, and why. Instead of answering those questions, Taehyung pushed his growing hair out of his eyes and beamed at me.

“I don’t think I’ve ever told you how thankful I am that you’re letting me stay here,” He said.

Tired and worn, I brushed him off like I always had. I was never the one for compliments and did not know what to say, especially with my guilt eating me alive. Taehyung ignored whatever poor attempts I had made to make him stop talking.

“Thank you,” He bowed his head. “I will never forget your kindness or strength. Hell, even your anger! You’re the first person I’d ever seen make Namjoon lose his cool.”

I ignored him and sipped on my tea. I don’t even think I looked at him again. I drank my tea, listened, and hoped Jimin would not wake up. I wanted to sleep in his arms for a while. It made the nightmares more bearable.

“I know you don’t really like this kind of thing,” Taehyung continued to babble. “I know you’re uncomfortable because of the way your hands tremble and your breathing changes. I’m sorry you don’t feel like you deserve my praise, but I want to give it to you anyway.”

“Why?” I rasped, looking out of the large window beside me.

It was the same window a white wolf had come to and asked for help.

“Because you’re hurting right now, and I want you to know it’ll be okay. No matter what happens you will always be my friend, and Jimin will always love you.”

Looking around me now, it was difficult to imagine a more beautiful sight. It had been so long since I last saw the trees in the sun, and it took my breath away. The heat and warmth were never far away but still felt foreign on my skin. It was still as quiet as a mouse out here, but I basked in its beauty regardless. Taehyung’s teeth were blinding, and I needed to squint.

“We’ll always be friends, right?” I asked.

He held up a pinky, “Always.”

I wrapped my finger around his and sighed.

Diving into the story once again, I told Taehyung why I had been distraught during those last few weeks. His reaction, much like the rest of him, was completely different from both Cadoc and Jimin’s. Even the witches had nothing on Taehyung, because as soon as I was finished, Taehyung hugged me and told me he loved me.

“What?” I choked.

“You were so afraid,” He patted the top of my head and pulled away. “You worked so hard for my family and friends. Thank you.”

“But-but,” I spluttered, “I messed up. I didn’t say anything. I got all of those poor people killed. My own friend-”

“But you tried so hard,” Taehyung soothed. “You wore yourself out learning those spells, you spent every single night trying to get better, and kept it all bottled up. How could I be mad at you for that?”

“Because I let you down,” I muttered. “I let everyone down.”

“No, you didn’t,” He chuckled. “When it counted you were there. You killed yourself, quite literally, mind you, for all of us without knowing it would work. You fought by our sides and gave up a life in the spirit world. You gave up your best friend.”

Bringing Shiloh up tugged on my heart strings. I missed her so much. I knew I would see her again someday, but I hoped she got her wish in the end. She deserved to be beautiful and dance in the sunlight like she always wanted. Sword fights and cooking were two things she dreamed of, and I knew she would be amazing at both if given the chance. I could only hope her hair would be as brightly colored as she imagined even when her human mind forgot all about our adventures. She would even forget about me.

“And after it all you’re still you.”

Looking up at Taehyung, another facet of his personality made itself known to me. On top of his naive, golden-hearted mischief, Taehyung was also a wiseman. Aldara had spoken of his grandmother before, and I could see that that trait was passed onto her eldest grandchild.

“But I still did a bad thing,” I whispered, my voice thick. “And I want to make sure I do everything I can possibly do to make this easier on us. I need all of you to live, Tae. I couldn’t bare it if anyone else died.”

“And we need you to live, too, Bridd,” He replied gently.

I said nothing. I knew that was the truth, but we obviously had different ideas about what was important. My own life meant very little to me after the fight with the elf. Hell, my life had meant little to me the night I found the cottage on fire, but I understood where Taehyung was coming from. I was his friend and he wanted to make sure I was alright. Thinking of Jimin, I knew my life meant even more to him. Still, I held onto my own ideas and that included keeping all of them as far away from harm’s way as possible.

He smiled sadly, “Who are you bringing?”

I sighed, “I haven’t made a decision yet. I don’t want to place anybody at risk or leave you unprotected in case I don’t make it back in time,” I did not voice my concerns for not returning at all. “Cadoc thinks Samanya should be with me, but she’s so fierce I’d rather be here to watch over Jimin.”

“Koda is a wonderful option,” Taehyung suggested after a beat. “She was a warrior in Viridi Gramine and served with the copiae for many years. She would be helpful for getting you to Ozryn and the Quietus would be extra security.”

I could not say the plan was bad, it was far too good, but that was the problem. Koda was an older woman now who could no longer change as far as I knew. She would be slow, and I would have to work twice as hard keeping her out of harm's way. I would have better luck going alone with Sam and finding our own way.

“Then again,” The alpha sucked his teeth, “Koda is rather old. Perhaps Jungkook? No, he’s a boy and too childish.”

The ‘prince’ as Ahn dubbed him was always ready for a fight and light on his feet. He reminded me of Taehyung and Hoseok wrapped up into one young man, but I had my doubts on his ability to follow instructions. Anytime I had seen Jungkook he was either in trouble or on his way into it. So, for my own sanity in the coming weeks, I would agree with Taehyung.

“What about Hoseok?” Taehyung snapped his fingers. “Oh! He would be a perfect choice.”

I nodded along with him knowing I would never ask the alpha to come with me. He and Hyuna were a package deal and that was too many to take along. If I was taking Samanya then I would only bring one other, and I doubted his mate would allow him to go regardless. He almost died a few days ago and was still on bed rest at their home.

“It’s too bad he’s resting,” I threw out knowing it would rule him out entirely. “I should just take Samanya and the two of us can figure it out together.”

“There’s always Namjoon.”

I shook my head vigorously.

“Absolutely not.”

I had made peace with the wolf during the fight, and I was certain our fight in my meadow was long forgotten. It did not mean I wanted to shack up with the alpha. He had proven to me his fickle nature and inability to make a decision on his own. He would be easily swayed, and I did not respect him for it. The thought of traveling with him made my head hurt.

“So stubborn,” Taehyung teased. “Fine. I’ll leave it alone.”

“Thank you.”

“Now,” He grinned, “Care to go gather some of those books I like so much? I think they’ll be a nice way to decompress during the night.”

Walking through the streets, I was pleased by the progress everyone had made rebuilding. The market was still destroyed, but so many homes and businesses on the southside were almost completely finished. The north, were the copiae lived, would be the last place rebuilt. Elder Kim had said the children needed a place to go and the few homes that stood were not enough to house them all. Bo, in her typical fashion, was upset by this but held her tongue.

She never wanted to disrespect a man. The thought made me roll my eyes.

Spotting Namjoon, I was pleased to see him and Taehyung working together. The younger alpha’s family home had been destroyed, all of them having to stay in the palace’s already crowded towers, but his mother was going stir crazy. Catching my gaze, Namjoon offered me a small, hesitant wave. I responded with a polite smile and continued walking. Taehyung was none the wiser.

I was greeted many times, all of them kind, and I tried to stop and help however I could. My magic was still weaker than I would like, and I had not had any time to flex my abilities since the attack. Today, I was hoping to change that.

“Would you like for me to help you with that?” I asked an elderly couple struggling to lift leftover roof tiles from their recent repairs.

“That would be lovely, Oxur Park,” The man replied, his voice gruff. “Just put them in that wheelbarrow. We’re giving the rest to Alpha Taehyung’s family.”

Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and attempted to focus. I was lucky the pieces were in a fairly neat pile and would be simple to move so long as I concentrated. A bead of sweat formed on my eyebrow. Lifting my hands, I mumbled under my breath.

“Flotian,” Cracking an eye open, the pile lifted effortlessly.

As quickly as possible, I brought the tiles to the wheelbarrow. Panting now, I knew I needed to flex my muscles a bit more. I was out of shape, and it was showing. With a loud clang, the tiles were ready to be pushed to Taehyung’s.

“Need a hand?”

Dropping my stance, I wiped my forehead and looked at Namjoon. He looked as weary as he had a few moments before, but this time I gave him a real smile. He returned it awkwardly. Whatever had happened during the battle had worn off, his confidence in helping me was replaced by the tongue-twisted man who had stood in my living room begging for forgiveness. Like so many, I owed him an apology as well. Gesturing at the wheelbarrow, I nodded.

“Thank you,” The old woman gushed. “God bless you both!”

Embarrassed, I ducked my head and bowed to the couple. Getting busy with the task, I pointed out a few loose pieces that would not fit in the wheelbarrow. Namjoon gathered them and handed them to my outstretched hands. Taking hold of the heavy, blue metal, the alpha began pushing. I used magic and the leftover tiles floated, following us back down the road.

“Taehyung tells me you are traveling to Viridi Gramine soon.”

I was not expecting small talk, but I was even more taken aback by the lie. The boy was quicker than I thought. The fib would make my disappearance easier to swallow without leading the spies on my trail. It did, however, pose an issue for their neighbors. If the elves believed the wolves to be ready for an attack out East, they may choose to invade sooner.

“Yes,” I lied easily, the word falling off my tongue with such conviction I was almost convinced myself. “I leave in a few days.”

“Would you like an extra set of hands?” He asked. “I know you and I have been on differing sides as of late, but I would like for that to change. I do respect you immensely.”

I smiled sadly. After speaking so ill of the man earlier today he was ready to drop everything to help me. Even if it was to make amends, I acknowledged how unpleasant being away would be. If I were less prideful, I may have accepted his proposal. As it stands, my pride was the only thing I still had to hold on.

“I owe you an apology,” I replied. “I was not fair to you. I let my anger blind me. It seems that’s all I’m good for these days.”

I thought of Jimin and his gentle caresses. I did not deserve his kindness. With the rumors spreading he was bound to hear of Taehyung’s lie. He would have a few choice words for me, that I was sure, but I knew we would work through it if I was given a chance to explain myself. He trusted me enough to allow me that. At least, I hoped he did.

“Regardless,” I sighed, “I’m sorry. I was out of line. I hope you can forgive me.”

“I have never been known to hold grudges for very long,” The man replied.

“Still, I will have to decline the offer,” I threw the tiles on the ground. We were at the edge of Taehyung’s property and the young alpha was hard at work. With barely more than a small wave, Taehyung greeted us. Sparing Namjoon a tight-lipped smile, I continued. “I want as many people in Bangtan as possible. I’m traveling with a small group of quietus.”

Namjoon nodded, his long hair falling out of its loose ponytail.

“Well, if you change your mind, you know where to find me.”

“I’m sure I won’t.”

With that, I bid both alphas goodbye and turned back around.

Standing in front of Jimin’s home was a short, pear-shaped woman. Her salt and pepper hair falling messily around her shoulders, thick bangs boxing in her already squared face. Tanned and beginning to show signs of her aging, her eyes crinkled happily at their corners as I approached. Her dress was tighter than it should have been, almost indecent in comparison to the other women around, but her large hips made it difficult to sew around. Her body would be considered provocative by the men, but the sight of it only made me feel inferior.

I had not realized Jimin’s mother was so beautiful.

“Y/N,” She greeted me happily, her voice soft and sugary sweet.

I bowed, covering my chest with a hand, and closed my eyes. I needed only a second to regroup myself. I had not been prepared to meet my fiance’s mother today. Especially without him by my side. Mi-Jeong radiated positive energy and her smile was infectious. I hoped I looked as happy as she did, but I only felt myself growing more overwhelmed.

“Good afternoon, Mrs.Park,” I winced at how breathless I sounded. I cleared my throat. “How are you?”

“I’m well,” She winked. I did not know why. “You’re just in time for lunch.”

Ushering me inside, I was relieved to hear Jin’s loud voice booming over all of the others. Yoongi was no longer on the living room floor, and Wendy’s gentle laugh mixed with the others. Elated, I quickly took off my shoes and made my way into the kitchen. Mi-Jeong followed behind me, her little feet pitter-pattering against the wooden floors.

The little house was in perfect condition and the smell of fresh paint hung in the air. Spotting Callisto and Hyun-Jin, I smiled at the paint staining their clothes. At least we were all trying to make the most of our horrible situation. Enver was the first to spot me and a huge, face-splitting smile broke out across his little face.

“Bridd!” He cried; his excitement palpable.

A streak of baby blue paint stuck to his cheek, but I did not care. The boy ran to give me a hug and I felt the wet paint soak through my dress. Greeted with loud, obnoxious cheers, I waved the others off and let go of my young friend. Yoongi looked around and I was sad to see he was still disabled. I had a feeling that would be a part of his life now. I hoped it would one day fade, but I was not sure the magic elves used to cause such damage.

“You have to try this,” Wendy moaned, pushing a large plate of noodles my way.

The noodles were thick and covered in a thick, chunky, black sauce. They smelled heavenly. Wendy passed over her pair of chopsticks and gestured at the plate once more. Her mouth was still filled. Picking up a large mouthful, I slurped.

They were delicious. So savory and salty it made my eyes close in content. The noise of content I made was involuntary and I quickly went in for another bite. The plate was pulled away from me and I scowled. Yoona raised an eyebrow at me.

“Is there meat in this?” I asked.

“Pork,” Callisto replied, chewing on a large plate of vegetable noodles.

My stomach turned uncomfortably, and I was suddenly less enthusiastic. They were so delicious; I was almost angry about the pork’s presence. Still, I watched Yoongi bite down on a piece of fried fish and felt less guilty. These were trying times and beggars could not be chooser. I grabbed the bowl back, took another large bite, before Yoona pulled back her way.

“There’s plenty of food. You don’t get to hog all of the Jajangmyeon.”

Someone tapped my shoulder. Mi-Jeong smiled at me, and it reminded me so much of Jimin’s I paused. Holding up a pair of clean chopsticks, she chuckled. I handed Wendy back the borrowed sticks and took my own. Seemingly satisfied, the little woman elbowed her way into the circle and began to grab the dishes she wanted for herself.

The dining table was far too big for all of us to sit at and it seemed everyone chose to stand. Yoongi and Tae-Jin, who had been discharged from the infirmary this morning, were the only two who sat. Mi-Jeong moved Enver out of her way and sat. I could see Wendy placing food on Yoongi’s plate and frowned.

I would have a talk with her about that at some point. I did not have the time or patience to deal with any of that right now. Jin noticed where I was looking and turned. With a deep sigh, he shook his head, but ignored it. It was probably for the best. A couple’s quarrel would cause a huge uproar within the families.

“Good to see you walking around, Mr.Kim,” I greeted Jin’s father.

“Nice to see you, too, kid.”

Passing around bowls and plates, I listened to the conversations around me. Jin and Wendy helped Jimin’s family with the construction repairs, and Mi-Jeong let Enver pick out the new colors for the walls. She had taken a very big liking to the boy. Thelma and the other women were taking a break from helping a family a few houses down but were planning on getting back to work as soon as they were finished eating.

“I was able to get Mannix this morning,” Jin threw my way. “Poor boy was shaking and so scared. He fell asleep in Callisto’s bed.”

I frowned. August, Yoongi’s cat, rubbed against my legs and I guessed he had gone for both of them. Hopefully the two of them will feel better soon. They had been left alone for quite a while. Wendy started talking about the witches from Syrena. Apparently, her coven was planning on coming out to the village to help. That brightened my mood. At least, in my absence, others will be around to help.

Callisto and Mi-Jeong soon left the room taking Thelma and Tae-Jin in tow. They were going to figure out a way to fix some of the loose floorboards in my future sister-in-law’s room. The circle around the table started to dissipate leaving only Yoongi, Jin, Wendy, and Ji-Hyun behind. The three of my friends were all jokingly loudly with one another as I took Mi-Jeong’s seat.

“So, Viridi Gramine?” Ji-Hyun’s eyes were telling, and I knew from the arch of his brow he did not believe Taehyung for a second. “Are you sure you can trust a Quietus to take care of you?”

The wolf was relaxed, his face and body language giving nothing away. Crouched beside my chair we would look like we were having a normal conversation, but he could not keep the malice out of his tone. Sinking into the chair, I turned my body towards his and hoped I could remain neutral. I did not want to fight with Jimin’s brother, but I refused to be intimidated.

I cleared my throat, “I’m sure we will be just fine.”

I did not have the heart to tell him I had yet to make any real decisions. That this entire trip was going to be a convoluted road of impulsive decisions. That I was going to be in more danger than anyone else could ever know. Ji-Hyun’s icy glare told me I did not need to say a word. He already knew what I was doing. His eyes were far more unnerving than Taehyung’s.

“Well,” He spoke softly, careful to keep the others from overhearing, “We can all hope you change your mind. Seeing you hurt would be heartbreaking for my brother. He barely survived it the last time.”

I had to commend the boy; he was very good at laying on the guilt. A thick cloud of shame wrapped itself around my body and it took effort to keep my expression neutral. Again, as it had been for days now, my anger bubbled to the surface. I could not remember being this angry in many, many years. I thought back to Namjoon and the incident in my front yard and looked away.

I was lying to myself. Lying horribly. If I said I could not remember the last time I was able to relax then that would be more truthful. Anxiety and anger were a part of who I was, but I did a wonderful job at hiding it behind snarky comments and isolation. I had never been around so many people for this long and hiding these facets of my personality were growing harder and harder. Soon it would be impossible. This trip could be a blessing in disguise. Once again, I wanted to go off on my own. I knew I was lonely- it was companionship that I was working out.

I thought of Shiloh and sighed heavily. At least she knew when to give me my space. No one else seemed to understand my needs the same way. It was to be expected. She had been with me since I was a young child and never once thought about going away. When the others moved on with their lives after Aldara’s death, when they left me to destroy myself after I burned my bridges, there was Shiloh and her kindness. The singular light in my life for as long as I could remember- the only shine coming close being Yoongi. Now I was alone again and did not know when they would leave. This time, my closest ally was dealing with his own problems and would not have time for mine.

“I’ll be back soon.”

“We’ll see.”

It clicked then. Ji-Hyun believed I was fleeing.

“You may have everyone else fooled,” His voice was so soft, so low, I was positive we were the only two who could understand a word he said. “But know this- if you ever hurt my brother again, I will not be so forgiving. Taehyung is a fool to let you do this. I wouldn’t trust you as far as I could throw you.”

Smirking at my distress, Ji-Hyun pushed his hair out of his face.

“You’re abandoning us,” He cocked his head to the side and gave me a scathing once over. “Jimin would be a fool to think overwise. You will always be a coward. I mean, you let my friends die without blinking an eye, what’s the rest of them?”

Disgusted, I stood and placed my chopsticks in the kitchen sink before stalking back outside. I did not need to put up with his bullshit on top of everything else I was handling. He should feel lucky I walked away. Violent images of striking the boy with fire filled my head followed by ripping his head off the way I had the elf’s.

Squeezing my eyes shut, I used all of my willpower to push my murderous thoughts to the deepest corners of my mind. Again, I was losing control. Stepping out front, I took a breath of fresh air and made every attempt to calm my racing heart. Instead of calm, however, I became even angrier. Because right in front of me was none other than Jimin, the love of my life, looking at me as if I were a perfect stranger.

“Leaving already?” He asked, eyes narrowed.

Great, just great, now he was mad at me as well. My already shaky control was spiraling. I felt my skin heating and my breathing picked back up. I was going to explode if he did not stop. I bit my lip and took a nice, deep breath. His scent did little to calm me. In fact, a small spike in anxiety only made my fists clench.

“I’m going for a walk,” I managed to get out, my voice far lighter than I was expecting. Jimin’s face darkened. “I didn’t realize it was taboo. Is walking illegal now?”

My sarcasm was not aiding either one of us right now. Whatever the reason for his anger, I should not be egging him on. Yet, I could not stop it. Trembling, I closed the front door and took a few more steps outside. Jimin did not move. I did not want to get any closer to him.

“Why is Taehyung lying to everyone?” He demanded, voice low and husky.

“Ask him yourself,” I snapped, already fed up with everyone and their conclusions.

“Are you lying to me?”

Scoffing, I shoved our shoulders as I passed him. He gave me a low, warning growl and turned to face me. Whatever voice that usually told me to bite my tongue was not around. It must have realized I would not listen. Looking up at him, I struggled to figure out how I really felt. Angry? Sad? Disappointed?

Looking into his eyes, I realized I was hurt. And that was a recipe for disaster. Steeling, I shook my head and looked at my feet. I had forgotten my shoes in my haste to get out of there.

“I told you we would speak, didn’t I?” I challenged. “How is that lying to you? Have you no faith in me at all?”

His pained expression told me everything that I needed to know.

“Of course,” I pulled away from him as if I had been burned. “Why would you anyway? It is me after all.”

“Amica-”

“No,” I threw my hands up. “I’ll see you later.”

I needed time to cool off and get my head back on. We had yet to argue, and I knew I would soon devolve into insults and petty jabs. I walked away without looking back, ignoring him calling out for me. He didn’t understand. They never understand.

I should have known he could never forgive me.

Koda stood beside my bedroom door, a large towel in one hand and a small pile of cloth in the other. Her thin clothes would have done little to help me in the cold hallways, but I doubted she felt the draft. She gave me a gentle smile as I approached which I returned. It seemed she would be adhering to Sol’s request from this morning.

“What time will you be leaving tonight?” She asked, handing me the towel.

“After I bathe,” I replied. “I will shift and leave through the broken window downstairs.”

Koda chuckled breathily. We were both keeping our voices down. Neither one of us wanted our conversation to be overheard by prying ears. I knew Bo was listening, but her chambers were on the opposite side of the palace. Even if she tried her best, I doubted she would be able to hear us- unless she was lurking around corners. I would not put it past her.

“That’s been repaired,” Koda sniffed the air, paused, and continued to walk. “I’ve broken the latches on your bedroom window, so you should be able to leave easily tonight.”

After my bath, Koda left me to dress myself and walk back to my room. She was trying to respect my privacy as much as possible, but I knew it was difficult for her to watch me do what she perceived as her job. I would never get used to someone else washing my hair- it was strange. She did, however, put her foot down about drying my hair properly.

“You will get sick, Y/N,” She scolded me gently, her fingers already in my hair.

She took great care and time drying the strands. She never pulled too hard or placed too much pressure on my scalp. After drying it completely, she ran oils and products through it that smell heavily of rose. I tried to convince her to let me go earlier, pleading that I needed to see Jimin, but she refused to budge. Koda was stubborn when she wanted to be.

By the time I left, it was long past midnight, and I was certain that Jimin would already be in bed. Before I could make it to him, Cadoc was floating beside me and told me we needed to speak. Tonight, we would talk about the trip and who I would be bringing. Tomorrow I will be leaving. It only served to make me all the more restless. Tonight, would be our last night and I wanted to get as much time in as I could. Even if it started with an argument, I was hopeful we could end it entangled in his bed.

“What?” I snapped, landing on the ground.

Shifting back, I stood in the destroyed market in nothing but the thin, cotton gown Koda gave me. The air was far more bothersome as a human than a bird and I rubbed my arms. Cadoc smiled apologetically and raised his arms in surrender.

“We will be quick, okay?”

I grit my teeth and nod.

“Have you made a decision yet?” He asked.

“I will go with Sam,” I conceited, hoping this conversation would be over soon.

“She will be pleased to hear that,” Cadoc grinned. “Lorcan will deliver everything you need to take with you tonight. Look over it as much as you can tomorrow, and Sam will meet up with you at your cottage.”

“Thank you.”

Cadoc shook his head, “No thanks needed.”

My skin itched to walk away from him. I wanted to see Jimin, but I knew this was an important conversation. Trying my best to stay pleasant, I nodded and forced a smile on my face. From Cadoc’s amused expression, I failed miserably. Bidding me a goodnight, Cadoc vanished into the wind leaving me alone once more.

Jimin was pacing when I walked into his small home. His hair was let loose, the silver strands frizzed and wild, but beautiful, nonetheless. Our fight this afternoon was still bothering him, and when I closed the front door, his head snapped in my direction. Worrying his bottom lip, I could see blood pooling where he had bitten off his skin. Eyes turning into slits, Jimin’s glare was murderous.

“So, you’re planning on getting yourself killed?”

The question hung in the tense air. Whatever hopes I had for this being a good night were dashed away. Cocking his head to the side, Jimin waited for me to speak but I could not find the words to say. He knew and I was at a loss. Taehyung must have said something in the fear that I really would take the cowardly route.

“Nothing to say?” Jimin pushed, seething. “You had plenty to say at my mother’s. Come on then, tell me.”

I scowled. His bad attitude was understandable, but it did little to soften my increasingly hurt feelings. That anger from earlier was rearing its ugly head. I had plans to tell him tonight and I was angry at Taehyung for going behind my back. Squaring my shoulders, I sighed loudly.

“I doubt you’d listen to me anyway,” My voice was cold and hard. Far harder than I intended for it to be. “You’ve already seemed to have your mind made up about things.”

Scoffing, Jimin marched towards me with a purpose. Standing my ground, I tried my best to dispel my growing anger with little success. My newfound temperament would only make this situation worse but when our chests pressed together and Jimin looked every bit the alpha he was, I did not care. I wanted to scream and fight, bite and scratch, maybe then I could feel myself relax. Maybe all of my anger was a buildup of pressure that I desperately needed to get rid of.

“Why is it that I have to hear about this plan of yours from Sol of all people?” He demanded.

Of course, Taehyung would have spoken to his mate about our conversation. I was foolish to believe anything between us would remain a secret. Now, Sol’s face flashed through my mind and my resent bubbled over. Who the hell was she to tell Jimin anything?

“Why are you taking her word over mine?” I challenged, my teeth gritted.

“Stop answering my questions with questions!” Jimin shouted, walking away from me. “I believe Sol more than anybody. More than you. At least one of you has never kept anything from me.”

That was a low blow and we both knew it. Instead of remorse, the flash of guilt that came across his face soon morphed into indifference. He almost seemed proud of the insult. I refused to cry, the angry sting in my eyes only adding fuel to my already raging fire, and I swallowed thickly. Two can play this game but if he was more concerned about winning then I would gladly let him insult me alone. Taking a step back, I prepared to leave for the night.

“For what it’s worth,” I looked at my feet, “I really am sorry.”

“Stop apologizing to me,” Jimin snapped, his voice so harsh and critical it made me cower. “You’ve done nothing but apologize for days. What else can you do?”

I knew he was just upset and hurt by my plans, our fight only making this one that much worse. I knew he would never say something like that to me under normal circumstances. I knew he would feel awful for his choice of words once he had the chance to cool off. Yet, the hurt and anger spread through my chest and infected every part of my body. He was right, I could not offer him anything but apologies. I knew it was too good to be true. Spiraling once more, I did not realize I was crying until the tears ran down my neck and tickled me.

“Don’t apologize when you’re going to keep doing this shit,” He spat, each word laced with venom. He was only a few feet away from me and I had never felt further away from him. “Apologize when you decide to change. Apologize when you realize I don’t need a martyr- I need someone who won’t lie and keep things from me.”

“I skewed up, alright?” I finally responded, “But I never once lied to you.”

“Yes-”

“No,” I cut him off, my blood boiling. “I did not lie. I told you I was leaving, that it would be difficult, and I told you I would tell you when I knew more.”

“But you were thinking of lying to me till the end!” He screamed.

“I admit that,” I shot right back, my voice growing louder. “I would do anything if it meant you were safe- even if that meant lying to you.”

“Why?”

“Because I love you!”

“Morologus es!”

The silence was so very loud then. Bottom lip wobbling, I took yet another step back. Whatever comeback I could have thought of fell short. Jimin’s conviction was astonishing, and his doubt felt like a punch in the gut. I needed to get out of here. I could hardly breathe, and his scent was becoming suffocating.

“Stop using me as an excuse,” His onslaught continued. “Just admit you want to be the hero. You can’t just be happy with me- no! You have to be the Bridd who runs, and jumps, and begs for the slightest bit of danger if it means she can be the victor! Even when it means getting an entire village killed!”

His words felt like a slap in the face. Was that the reason he thought I wanted to go? It had never even crossed my mind, but the confidence he held made me doubt myself. Wiping my face, I shouted obscenities and tried to catch my breath. I knew he blamed me. It was all my fault. All of this was my fault. Jimin completely ignored me and stood a few feet away, his words like knives, and his gaze like stone.

“This-” He gestured between the two of us, “-Whatever you think you may feel for me is wrong. You don’t love me. This is not love. Running towards your death to redeem yourself is not loving me.”

“Sorry doesn’t fix everything,” He murmured, the edge finally beginning to soften.

“Did you say something to your brother?” I demanded.

“Wh-what?” He spluttered.

I laughed humorlessly, “Cut the shit, Jimin. Whatever you’ve said about me has obviously affected his view of me, or was calling me murderer some one-off occurrence? Somehow, I have a hard time believing he’s come to that conclusion all on his own.”

“Ji-Hyun would never say something like that,” He hissed, his breath heavy. “Why would I speak badly about you behind your back? Unlike you, I’m an upfront person.”

My anger flared once more, and I could slowly see the corners of my vision distorting. As badly as I wanted to end this fight and make up, I knew that would not be possible. Not now. Not ever. Again, he was calling me a liar. Again, I would have to fight this uphill battle to prove myself. Again, I was losing a game I never knew I was playing in the first place.

Cadoc had been wrong. Love was never given freely. Nothing in this life was. Jimin would always need for me to prove myself to him. I would have to fight, bite, scream, and scratch if I wanted to show him that I care. Why I ever hoped it would be different was foolish on my part.

“Are you so angry at me that you’re dragging my brother into this?” He shouted.

I scoffed, “There you go again, treating me as if I am some kind of irrational monster. So, I ask you again, do you really think that little of me?”

Jimin said nothing. Frustrated and tired, I finally had enough. I could smell ash and smoke all around me, and I knew I was about to find myself back at my cottage. Cordelia’s face was in my mind, Aldara’s arm hanging out of the wolf’s mouth, and I knew I needed to leave. Numb and slowly dissociating, I sniffled.

“Fine.”

“What?” He had the nerve to look abashed.

Hand on the front doorknob, I shook my head in defeat. It was over. Jimin was rejecting my love and whatever else I had to offer him. He did not believe in me at all. Somehow that hurt me more than the rejection. His faith had always been constant, his love tender and warm, and that was gone now, too. I had nothing. I was nothing. I deserved whatever I had coming to me. Finally, I had gotten my wish. Finally, he was shouting.

“I didn’t mean to ruin your life,” Devoid of emotion, I sniffled. “I know I made a mistake, but I’m trying my best. Doesn’t that matter?” My voice tapered off towards the end.

Jimin said nothing. I turned the knob and was back outside. I stopped waiting for him to stop me once I could no longer see his home. My feet felt like they weighed twenty pounds each and dragged along the dirt road beneath my feet. I needed to get back home. I chuckled humorlessly when I realized I no longer had one.

I truly gave up on him coming to gather me in his arms once the palace came into view. It was eerily quiet tonight and I wanted to go get lost. I wanted to forget. I wanted to leave.

The thought occurred to me so quickly, so easily, that it made me smile. Yes, I would leave tonight. It was better this way. I would no longer be a burden to this place and the others could live peacefully without me. Even if I died, I doubted it would matter. Nothing I had ever done worked out anyway. It would be nothing new.

Shifting, I scaled the walls and flew into my bedroom. Just as Cadoc said there were countless items at my disposal all wrapped up and ready to go. I would have plenty of time to look over them tomorrow morning. I would sleep in Moland tonight, hopefully not getting too lost, and try to ask for directions once I reached civilization. It was better than hurting anybody else. It was better than getting any more blood on my hands.

At least I could remain the hero.

I cried in pain. I could not believe he thought so lowly of me. No wonder he refused to touch me, I probably disgusted him to no end, and he was hateful that we were bound to one another. Something told me I should stop packing, stop moving, and to breathe, but I ignored it. I did not care what it had to say.

Throwing a few spare changes of clothes, paper, and a few spell books, I knew I needed to change out of the frilly nightgown Koda had changed me into. Throwing on an old, loose shirt, I looked around for my trousers when I stumbled across Aldara’s journals. I had yet to open them since I came here. Running my fingers over the spines, I made the split decision to take them with me. I would need her company to keep me sane.

Finally, I came to a stop as I caught sight of my jewelry box. I had Heidi’s ring on my left hand and Griselda’s on my right, but they felt far too empty. Opening the lid, the cool ceramic felt heavier than normal in my hands. It took a few minutes of digging before I found Aldara’s ring and slipped on my right hand. The bird’s head encased my entire index finger, but I did not care. I would be taking this ring. I found my own a moment later, a chain wrapped around the band.

Pulling it out, I secured it around my neck and looked down. I gasped. There shining and glittering under the candlelight was Taehyung’s necklace. The carnelian had been marginally larger than the tip of my thumb, perfectly rounded, and it’s red coloring deep and beautiful. I could see the faint, dark marbling within it, but the lights made it hard to capture its beauty. Spiraling around the stone was a thin wire of steel that ended with a small loop. I thought Taehyung would like something simple, so I finished it off with a long piece of dark cord that I carefully braided. It was beautiful.

My anger dissipated at the sight of it. I had spent days working on that necklace hoping I would not break the stone. I completed it a few days before the present ceremony, but when everything went to shit, I had completely forgotten about it. I placed it on the desk and sighed.

Thick, hot tears ran down my cheeks as I cried. I had such high hopes for everyone. If I could turn back time I would, why could nobody see that? Why was Taehyung the only person I believed when he said he would love me regardless? Bitter, I wiped my face roughly and went back to packing.

He was the only one who meant it, that’s why.

Reaching into my back, I pulled out a single sheet of paper and prepared my ink. I would have to leave something for him at least. No need to worry the people who cared for me. Even Jimin. I can’t forgive myself, but I could forgive him. Maybe when I come back, we could work things out.

Taehyung,

Do you remember this? It feels like a lifetime ago. I hope you like it. I wish I could have made a matching one for Sol, but maybe that would have been too perfect. When I get back, I will make sure I have one waiting for her neck. The two of you deserve it. Even if I am angry with your wife, I know I will get over that soon enough.

Tell the others how sorry I am for this impromptu banishment. I fear I have made a real mess of things lately and I don’t know how to make it better. No one believes in me, no one thinks I’m capable, and I can’t figure out what it is they mean by it? Am I not strong enough or is it because it does not matter? I’m sorry if this is confusing. Tonight, has been too much for me. No- today has been too much. The last ten years have been too much.

I haven’t had my head on right in a very long time, Tae. So, I beg of you to forgive me. I promise you that no one had a part in my decision to leave like this. It’s all my own doing. I can only hope I make it back in time to tell you how much you mean to me. How much all of you mean to me.

Tell Yoongi that I will miss him more than I miss breathing. Tell Jin his laughter will be something I think about to keep me going. Tell Wendy how much I’m going to miss her hugs and will yearn for them every day. I need my witches to know that I adore every single one of them and will do whatever it takes to keep them out of harm’s way. Thank Thelma for me. Let Enver know how proud I am and that the blue looks nice.

Lastly, let Jimin know I love him more than anything else in this life. Even my own. That will never change, even when he is frustrated and angry at the world. I promise I will try my best to come back home in one piece. I promise, as the Gods look down upon me, that I will do everything in my power to bring help back. I don’t care where I have to go or what I have to do. I will not come back empty handed this time.

Be careful. The elves are not known for their mercy.

With all my love,

Y/N

Slipping on my pants, snatching a pair of earrings Yoongi gifted me for my birthday a few years ago, and lacing up pair of boots, I slung the bag over my back and enchanted my things to flex and change as I did. Afterwards, I shifted and flew out of the window. I did not look down or wait for somebody to find me. Tomorrow morning, they would wake and the cause of all their misery would be gone. I would fight tooth and nail if it meant I had a better chance of getting help to these people. Aldara had never led me astray before.

I wished I could have told Jimin that.

Broken hearted and lost, I flew above the trees and watched the world I know leave me behind. Flying would get me somewhere, but the elves would grow suspicious of a raven wearing a backpack. Soaring, Thelma’s small boat home cut through the trees and I knew I would have some place to rest my head tonight.

I wished Jimin could have been here with me.

Translations:

Matrina - Godmother

Patrinus - Godfather

Mi conjunx - My wife (Addressing)

Mi coniunx - My husband (Addressing)

Morologus es! - You’re talking like a moron!

I know I’m a jerk for this...please don’t be mad at me. It’ll get better... eventually.

Taglist: @greezenini @adventures-in-bookland @kthstrawberryshortcake-main @zae007live @jimin-neverout @nikkiordonez12 @canarystwin @yamekomz @chimthicc @michiiedreamer @amorieus

66 notes · View notes

aseaofyoongi · 2 years ago

Text

we belong together | chp. 2

min yoongi x reader (f)

genre: min twins au; angst; smut; arranged dating themes; fake dating; enemies to lovers; slow burn

rating: mature audiences only (18+)

summary: before college you and your bestfriend yoongi promised your parents if you were to come back home single you would begin dating to marry as a way to get them to back off your love lives. upon coming back however, although you’re both single, yoongi is in love with someone else and unwilling to let them go. unfortunately, you are left to carry out the hapless promise with yoongi’s twin brother and your sworn enemy min yoojin.

warnings: lots of bickering (like an excessive amount); angst; foul language; brief mentions of soobin (txt) again; jimin feature; annoying/irritating parents; flashback scenes; emotional constipation; edited but when i was half asleep so yea lol; no smut here sorry!

word count: 7,8 thousand words

posted: thursday january 19, 2023

previous: part 1 | next: to be announced

There were tints of ash gray prancing around in your head.

Life was dull.

Everything was stripped bare of its hues.

There was nothing but black dotted lines and blank spaces waiting to be colored in. Your velvet fingertips sweeped past the wooden handles of your paint brushes but no matter how hard you tried, there was no strength in you to lift up the paperweight tools. No matter how much you put your mind to it, it was ponderous.

You chucked the lack of mobility in your upper extremities to the carpal tunnel residuals lingering from years prior but why was your universe dwelt behind the bland combination of pale white and dark black all of the sudden?

Surely, it was connected to your rather wild endeavors the night prior. Perhaps, the volume of the booming bass had fucked with your head or maybe your thoughts lingered back to that random man you kissed on the dance floor out of spite for the upside down twin.

Though, spite was a putrid word you had to admit you really enjoyed the way, Yoojin’s eyes glared at you as your lips tangoed against the disposable stranger pressed up on you. His intense glare read you intently—he was absorbed by your being much like a hypnotic spiral. The feeling set a fire ablaze on your skin but your eyes, they kept drifting towards him at the bar and even though you wanted to keep your distance. . No, you needed to keep your distance. You simply didn’t know how to rip your eyes away from him.

Yoojin had this thing about him, sort of flamboyant. . hard to miss, impossible to avoid aura. He filled your void and colored every inch of your life with cool tones. It spread a funny feeling to the pit of your stomach, sent tingles down to your toes, it sent a shiver down your spine yet you were repulsed by him so much.

You brushed away at the canvas vigorously, your mind was blank and you weren’t actually painting anything in particular—just insignificant lines and then some more lines.

Your mind was clouded with shape-less thoughts, just a jumble of mush. Nothing you had the capacity to decipher or untangle at that moment in time. Worse of it all was that the forefront of your mind was occupied by the one face belonging to two different people: one was the personification of your guardian angel sent to you from heaven, the one who wrapped you up in his loving embrace. The other was the treacherous Aeneous, setting earthquakes in his path as he abandoned you.

And still, your heart drew him as the missing piece to your unfinished puzzle but your mind, it knew to hate him. You could trust your mind. It was viable and it knew Min Yoojin was like a fucking fever you couldn’t break.

‘Do you miss. . .’

His lewd words vibrated down the walls of your inner ear. He didn’t get to finish what he intended but you knew exactly what he was hinting at. And you tried. . you tried to brush off the incorrigible thoughts surfacing but no matter how many times you tried to bury them in the back of your mind, they always resurfaced.

The pressing question looped and you found yourself in a mental debate.

Did you miss it?

Did you miss him?

You were over him—you were used to the achromatic path of your everyday life but of course, Yoojin just had to alter the palpitations of your heart with his unwelcomed presence.

Stepping away from the canvas the brush strokes marked the face of the twisted twin, the man you so harshly detested. Your mind still registered its rightful duty. It reminded you that despite what your heart communicated and despite what your treacherous hands created, the two of you were not meant to be.

He was not your Yoojin.

And you were no longer his.

“You do not belong to me,” you shouted at the painting sitting on the eisel, “just fucking leave me alone. You do not belong to me.”

You kicked the eisel down and watched as Yoojin laid on the floor. There was intense rage fueling your thoughts. You wanted to hurt him, you craved to have him hurting as much as you did.

“I fucking hate you,” you uttered through gritted teeth.

“Yoongi’s not here you know,” Yoojin annoyingly shoved a handful of cereal into his mouth. You sat on one of the stools in the kitchen of the Min household. Your best friend Yoongi was supposed to make it home after basketball practice so that you could help him out with an essay but it’s been about thirty minutes since the coach was supposed to let them go and he has yet to make it home.

“I know that, Yoojin,” you squinted your eyes and shook your head.

“So why are you still sitting in our kitchen like a lost puppy?” he asked, still munching on his cereal so fucking irritatingly.

“Yoongi needs help with some school work,” you shrugged, “and I personally do not have it in me to go home right now.”

“The princess has grown in wrangle with her guardians. Such an original story line in our current social standing,” you knew he was joking, yet you couldn’t help how much it stung coming from someone else’s lips.

Your life would always be a constant battle with what you wanted versus what your parents had chosen for your future and there was nothing you could do. Nothing.

“Your life isn’t much more original to mine.”

“I wouldn’t say that,” he snickered.

“Is your major not marked off as business administrations like the rest of us, Mr. Photography is my entire being.”

“That’s just it, Ms. Painting is my life,” Min Yoojin was truly annoying. He was, “I am bringing forth to my parents eyes only what they want to see. They wanna see business administration checked off on my college applications? That is fine with me, but remember that majors can always be changed once we set foot on campus.”

“So you’re lying now?”

“What is lying to a bunch of control freaks?” he took a seat on the stool right beside you. Yoojin, although sharing the same exact face as your best friend, they were so distinct. Yoongi was compliant. . he listened to his parents, much like you. He was content with letting them manage his life, and not letting them in to meet the real him. Yoojin wasn’t so afraid to go head-to-head with them and even though he was aware of the repercussions he wasn’t scared of putting his dreams and passions above all else, “this is our life to live. They let themselves be controlled by their parents but that doesn’t mean we also have to comply. So no, I have no remorse for lying.”

“Hm. What else are you lying about?” You placed your palm under your chin. His entitled banter was exceedingly entertaining and while you knew how snobby an affluent teen sounded complaining of the struggles attached to his rich and fortune, he wasn’t wrong.

All of you deserved your chances at living life. Your own lives.

“They think I’m in debate but I’ve been in the photography club since freshman year,” he explained nonchalantly, “oh, and my internship is in film not for some stupid finance company.”

“You’re bad, Min Yoojin.”

“Don’t tell me you have never gone against what your parents say?” he asked, “last I checked you have enrolled in every art related elective since year nine.”

“And you also stalk me?” you gasped.

“Do not flatter yourself,” Yoojin laughed, it was nice. Soft and peaceful, and it reminded you of the way birds sang in the early morning, “I did community service in the front office last year.”

“You do community service?” you joked.

“It’s mandatory, you jerk.”

“Whatever.”

The massive kitchen was stilled by silence for a couple of seconds and the two of you just sat by each other’s side. Your vision was transfixed out the massive window behind the sink focusing on the vibrant oranges of the evening sky descended on its journey to meet the horizon. He attention was still diverted to the remnants of the sugary breakfast delicacy.

His voice once again filled the void, “do you plan on sticking to your parents’ plans?”

“I have no choice,” your tone was soft—you despised the reminder of the lack of control over your life, “I do not have a twin to hide behind.”

He chuckled, “as selfish as it may be I’m thankful Yoongi serves as the model child in the Min penitentiary. They already expect disappointment from me so there’s not much to be disappointed about.”

“I suppose you’ve been lucky.”

His hickory russet eyes turned a soft caramel under the lasting golden hour. You have spent countless occasions in the company of Min Yoojin, but never have you had to sit this close to him, or had his eyes fixed on you the way they were now, and you certainly never felt yourself sparing so many thoughts at what lingered around in his mind.

It was all foreign but you found yourself welcoming in with open arms.

“You should be a painter,” he shot you a smile as he circled the massive island to place the dirty bowl in the sink, “I can see the way your eyes light up when any one mentions the arts.”

The feeling of his absent body beside you felt lonesome and frigid, you found yourself shivering as a result. It longed to have him take his place back on the seat next to you, even if it was in silence, even if neither of you had anything else to say, but instead you watched as he trotted up the stairs. Leaving you in the past like an afterthought never to be recollected again.

He can see the way my eyes light up when I mention the arts—that was short for: he’s paying you an ounce of thought, he sees you, he knows what you long for.

You wondered if he has noticed the same starkles in your eyes whenever the two of you crossed each other's paths?

Would he grow agitated at the sceneries he’d be exposed to if you ever let him cross through the tiny entrance of your heart?

Is he aware of the strumming ballad that loops within you at the mention of his name?

The feelings you bare were caged with torment—they would not do you any good but unfortunately you couldn’t shut them out. Even if it was unintentional, you wore it in your eyes, you know you did, so why hasn’t he noticed?

Perhaps, he has noticed and he simply can not reciprocate what you feel.

Your mind chose to believe the latter.

These ridiculous vivid dreams of yours had you on the brink of losing your sanity, this was the second one in the last twenty-four hours.

It’s astounding how you had to keep reminding yourself that Yoojin did not finger you against your kitchen counter the night before, you were not working in a portrait of his irritating face right now and you were certainly no longer high schoolers ogling each other behind unspoken words and forbidden confessions of love. He would never have you wrapped around his finger the way he did back then, no longer a blushing mess.

You were an adult now, and you would act as such, and that meant invalidating his existence entirely.

It would be as if he’s not even there.

Except, he would be.

Because your Yoongi will unfortunately be substituted by him, God, you almost forgot about that whole charade. How you wish it was only a depiction of your crudest nightmares.

You threw your velvet duvet over your head and groaned in exasperation—if you would have ever been placed in the worst scenario your life could’ve steered down, this was it.

“Yoongi and I are dating,” you practiced imagining the face of the ominous twin in replacement of your best friend. The amiability behind Yoongi’s sparkling radiance was replaced by darkness. Worse of it, it did not matter how identical Yoongi and Yoojin were because to you they were worlds apart.

The bright morning sun invaded your room as it pierced through the floor to ceiling glass windows. Usually, the view of the city serenades you with peace but today it was no use—you were in your own ordeal.

Walking into the kitchen your nostrils were invaded by a plethora of scents distinctive only to the most delicious of breakfast dishes.

“Yoongi, I thought you were taking care of Jimin this morning,” you rounded the corner only to be met with the distorted double.

“Good morning,” his wicked eyes were casted on you.

“Yoojin?” you remained at your place near the hall leading back to your room, “what are you doing here?”

“Yoongi, asked me to look after you.”

“Yoongi, would never do that to me.”

He chuckled, “I have no ill intentions.”

“Your very existence is an ill intention,” you spat at him. Hurtful words you hoped would give you some sort of satisfaction, they didn’t.

“I do not remember you to be this iniquitous.”

“There are eras you miss about a person, when you pack up and leave from one day to the other,” was he truly unaware of the vicinity of the concoction stirring away in your heart? Heartbreak and vengeance were a fatal mixture.

“Is one of these eras kissing random guys in the club?” He continued scrambling the eggs in the pan.

“Why do you care about Yoojin?”

I don’t. . besides all I’m saying is I left for my own sanity. .”

“Congratulations to you, Yoojin. Did you get to find yourself? I am beaming with happiness at your tales of self discovery.”

He threw the wooden spoon in the sink, the loud clank vibrated through the apartment “you know you don’t have to be such a bit-”

“Finish it,” you yelled, “fucking finish it!”

He walked up to you, completely disregarding the food he had been preparing for you, “you don’t have to be a bitch about it.”

“I’ll be a bitch all I fucking want,” you pushed him off of you, “you hear me? And I’ll be the biggest fucking bitch you’ll ever encounter.”

The doorbell to your apartment chimed while the both of you stood across from each other, fists balled, steaming with anger.

“Shut the fuck up,” you whispered over to him before walking towards the front door. Looking through the peephole, you saw your mother standing on the other side of the door. A string of curses escaped your lips as you realized the gravity of the situation.

Your mom was here, but so was Yoojin who would be pretending to be Yoongi, who would be pretending to date you.

“Fuck,” you tiptoed back towards Yoojin, “it’s my mother, please go hide in my room.”

“Would you look at that? You are mannered after all,” his sarcasm certainly was not appreciated but quarreling any further would only result in him not complying. So, you remained quiet, guiding him in the direction of your bedroom.

“Thank you,” you slammed the door and dashed back to welcome your mother in as she continued annoyingly pressing on the doorbell over and over again.

“Hi, mom,” you opened.

“Hi,” her voice was skeptical and her eyes roamed around the rest of the apartment behind you, “what took you so long to answer?”

“You just woke me up,” you fake yawned.

“No wonder you look a mess,” your mother never paid you a single compliment for as long as you could remember, you were only on the other end of her criticism and spiteful words, “are you gonna let me in?”

You sighed and moved away from your stance which once blocked the entrance to your house. She took a seat on the couch and waited for you to join her on the seat across from her. Your mother was a woman of great poise—possessing perfect posture, intelligible words and a pristine reputation.

As her only daughter, she expected nothing less than perfection of you.

She expected you to mimic her very being, something you truly did not hold an ounce of interest for.

“Have you spoken with Yoongi?” She asked.

“He knows of everything mother,” you replied, “he is the man I will be dating and my best friend after all.”

“That is the precise reason, I am against this entire. . thing,” she wore a sour expression on her face, “best friends should not marry each other.”

“You also believe marriage doesn't stem from love but the size of someone’s wallet,” though, it is true that your mom stood under the same scale of hatred you held for Yoojin, you always tried to hold a level of respect for her.

Though, sometimes it felt impossible.

“Watch your mouth,” she threatened, “your father may be buying all of this but I am certain you only pulled this stunt to escape your marriage to Choi Soobin.”

“You sold me off like cattle,” you stood, now pacing back and forth behind the couch, “you didn’t even consult me about it.”

“I don’t have to consult you about anything.” You scoffed but she continued, “you simply do as you are told.”

“That might have worked when I was a teenager in highschool,” you crouched down, placing your elbows on the backrest of the couch—your eyes now leveled to hers, “but if there’s one thing I will have control over is who I get to spend the rest of my life with.”

“We’ll see about that,” your mother was a woman of her word and although you knew technically she was right, you would not marry Yoongi. It was now within your full intent to marry as you please—you would not give her the satisfaction.

“This is not a debate mother,” the sternness in your voice remained, “I am telling you I will not marry to your choosing.”

“And I said, we will see about that.”

“Good morning,” the irritating voice announced itself, cutting through the heated atmosphere you and your mom had created, “I couldn’t help but come and greet you once I heard your voice.”

“Yoongi,” even the way she said his name was distasteful. . However you were preoccupied with the concern of whether she would actually buy the twin switch.

“I hope you’re doing well. It’s been quite some time since we last spoke,” Yoojin was proficient in adopting his brother’ vocabulary, in dropping the slight slugness of his real voice and picking up the pace in his words, his mannerisms resembled those of your bestfriends perfectly too. It was a bit odd.

If you didn’t know any better, you would say this was Yoongi right in front of you.

“I could be better.” She responded barely above a whisper—almost disregarding who the question derived from. For someone who considered herself to be of the highest societal rank she possessed a great deal of disrespect.

“He’s also doing well mom. Thank you for bothering enough to ask,” you hissed.

“I’ll concern myself with asking as soon as I see you walking down the aisle with him. When I am sure you are not doing this out og rebellion,” she stood grabbing her bag and walking slowly towards the entrance in her perfectly ironed skirt suit, “and clean up the place, would you? Your father and I do not pay your rent for you to be trashing the place.”

“Dad’s name is on the lease. Not yours.”

“What’s your father’s is mine and vice versa,” she turned back and patted your check with her palm softly. Clearly not looking to cause any harm but to fuel you with anger instead.

You walked right behind and waited for her to cross the threshold before slamming the door right behind her. You placed your hands on your knees, gasping for air. She was so agitating, it literally consumed every last bit of your energy every time you engaged in conversation with her.

Sometimes you wondered what cruel affairs you had been acquainted with in your past life to ever be condemned with a mother like her.

“I thought I told you to stay in the room.”

“Things just seemed much more interesting out here though,” he walked over to the kitchen island and stuffed his mouth with whatever he had prepared.

“I’m glad my afflictions are amusing to you.”

“Not amusing. . just less boring than all the white furniture you had me staring at in your room,” he hurled himself on the couch, now using his elbows to prop himself up, “how are you a painter and your apartment is lacking so much color.”

“I’m not a painter.”

“Still lying to yourself claiming it’s a hobby?”

You shrugged, “It is.”

“No, you’re just letting them win.”

“Yoojin, I am physically and mentally tired. There is no more fight in me and I wanna be alone, please finish whatever it is that you have to do and get the fuck out of my apartment,” you waved him off, walking back in the direction of your room.

“Hey,” he called out—you turned around, “I promise I didn't mean to cause a scene with you this morning.”

“Your promises mean nothing here.” you hollered back.

The afternoon strolled in a haste and Yoojin had managed to leave your apartment shortly after you kicked him out.

After cleaning the mess he left behind in the kitchen, you showered quickly and plopped back into bed—your energy had been absorbed by the two most irritable people in your life and frankly you had no energy to engage in anything else at the moment.

You just wanted to lay in bed in the dark and be consumed by your thoughts.

But as soon as your closed your eyes the incessant ringing of your phone blared through the otherwise quiet room.

It was Jimin.

“Jiminie!”

“Baby!” He matched your squealing tone, “How are you?”

“I’m . .” You paused, “exhausted.”

“Me too. I just finished my shift—and I saw Yoojin come in all pissed this afternoon.”

“And why do you assume it’s related to me?”

“He came in cursing your name. I’m pretty sure he put a hex on you at some point.”

“That little bitch.”

Jimin sighed, “So, what happened?”

“He was just at my house when I woke up—” you sounded just as baffled as did that very morning when you found him in your kitchen, “like he owned the fucking place.”

“Yoongi asked him to follow you up and make sure you made it in ok,” Jimin confessed, “while he took me home.”

“I would have much rather slept on the sidewalk.”

“You hate him that much?”

“Hate is not a strong enough word to describe what I feel towards Min Yoojin.”

“Should I give him a beating?”

Jimin’s protectiveness lurked dear to your heart. He was a dulcet person and his friendship was your most exorbitant and treasured possession.

“It happened long ago, Jimbles. You do not have to fight him.” You chuckled.

“I was just making sure,” he giggled on the other side of the line, “can I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“What did he do?”

“Well today he spoke the truth and I just didn’t like it. .” There was hesitancy in your voice. It’s not that you didn’t trust Jimin, it’s just that no one really knew what went down between you and Yoojin besides the two of you. Not even Yoongi, “But we also have a bit of a tension filled past.”

Jimin continued speaking but his voice became muffled, your thoughts drifted elsewhere.

Still lying to yourself claiming it’s a hobby?

Against the venom you spewed his way his words had never vacated your thoughts. Matter of fact he never left once and even tonight you found yourself entranced by his articulation.

Still lying to yourself claiming it’s a hobby?

You had heard those exact words before.

“You’re still here?” He opened the door to Yoongi’s room abrasively allowing the hallway light to seep into the unlit room while you laid in your best friend’s bed.

“Yoongi said he was coming shortly,” your eyes remained on the ceiling, Yoongi had adorned the previously empty space with dozens of glow in the dark stars, “but then again that was like. . 20 minutes ago.”

“Lies,” he laid down next to you, “something tells me you’re still avoiding going back home.”

“And you are absolutely right.”

“Do you ever stand up to them?”

You looked over to him but his eyes remained on the vague luminary stickers up above.

“I do not believe that to be an option for me.”

“Why is that?”

“They—” you huffed, “I don’t even know.”

“Tell me.”

“They just make me feel so trapped. It’s like I’m drowning in a glass of water and although they see it and have the power to ease my sorrow. . They chose to opt out of helping and just continue to pour water in.”

There was a momentary silence until Yoojin finally spoke up, “Is that not just more reason to speak up?”

“They fund my entire life Yoojin. I cannot defy them.”

“Financial ties. . That’s always a strain.”

“I mean I would run away. . but who the fuck is going to hire an eighteen year high-school drop out who just couldn’t hold off a couple months to make it to graduation.”

“I suppose you’re right,” his tone was that of defeat, because although he was intransigent

—there was not a boulder large enough for him to hide behind, “I have only been able to hide behind Yoongi’s compliant nature for limited situations.”

“It’s like micromanagement gets them off or something.”

He burst out a thunderous laugh, “It really does, doesn’t it?”

“It does.” you smiled.

Yoojin and Yoongi were twins and while you were absolutely aware they shared even their own distinctive features—somehow the boy before you wore them differently. His smile was brighter, his eyes were richer in their brown hue, his cheeks were dusted with a glowing pink.

And you were drawn to all of it. You were drawn to him.

You wish you could yell it out on the highest of mountain tops, unfortunately, cowardice kept you immobilized at the slope and you were never able to reach its peak.

You would never be able to confess.

“You hang with my brother a lot. .”

“That’s a wise observation. Yoongi is my best friend, he’s my other half. You know that.”

“Yeah. .” he drifted off, “I’m actually trying to steer this in a different direction.”

“Steer away, Yoojin.”

His gaze landed on you, your eyes finally met for the very first time that day. For a moment, the sham stars on the ceiling became blinking lights like those rejoicing in the night, sprawled out through the dark sky just outside the window. Their light source became enough to spotlight the two of you.

He was glowing like never before.

“He’s just so determined on keeping his distance from girls. . I was just wondering if you held the same ideas about boys.”

“If I’m as celibate and hoeless as Yoongi?”

Yoojin nodded. He was serious.

“I’m not really sure how to answer that.”

“Truthfully.”

“I don’t hold the same ideas as Yoongi.”

“So you. .?”

“Are you asking if I’m a virgin?”

“I guess. .”

You were aware summer was nearing but none of that justified how hot the room became in such a short amount of time.

“We’re 19, Yoojin,” you said, “I haven’t been a virgin for months now.”

“I haven’t been one for a while either.” You asked for no elaboration, just hummed along to acknowledge his response, “but I also wanted to ask.”

“Yes?”

“Do you have a boyfriend?”

“Why do you ask?” Realistically speaking you didn’t care about his 10-page interview questions regarding your personal life. You just enjoyed the way he became shy even though he initiated the conversation. It was cute.

“You know. .”

“Is this how you normally flirt?”

“No,” he protests, “I’m not flirting.”

“Hmm,” you began, “so you haven’t been staring at my lips for the past ten minutes either?”

His eyes blew to the size of pool balls and while you were patiently trying to get this out of him, you also realized that a tiny push wouldn’t do—you needed to dive right in.

“For what it’s worth I did want to kiss you.”

“Really?”

“Yes, but you aren’t flirting with me remember so you must not want to kiss me.”

“Don’t do me like that.”

“I didn’t do anything. Those were your words not mine.”

“You’re cruel.”

You chortled and grabbed your jacket from where you previously hung it on the backrest of Yoongi’s computer chair. Your lips met his soft cheek leaving the trace of a timid peck.

“Tell Yoongi I got tired of waiting, will you?”

“I will,” He waved you off with one hand while the other remained on the cheek you kissed.

The park near the town square was empty today. As gloomy as the day was, all you could replay back in your head were all the happy memories you had lived through on a swing set very similar to this one when you were just a little girl.

Back then, you felt invincible. Like you could take on anything and come out victorious on the other side.

What would your eight year old self say today? Painted by cowardice you allowed your parents to drag you along your life like a rag doll, you let your life long crush trump your heart like dirt and now resented him for it.

You were a joke. A sad fucking joke.

The usual tint of azure in the sky was a light gray, but it hasn’t rained yet.

“Funny seeing you here,” Yoojin swept in, taking a seat on the swing right next to you.

“I arranged this meeting, remember?”

“How about you let us live in the moment,” he began swinging his feet back and forth, creating a bit of momentum. This was typical Yoojin behavior, deflecting, making jokes out of a serious situation, and being immature.

None of it was new to you.

“I summoned you out here as an attempt to have a serious conversation,” God knows you were trying, real hard. “Can you manage that?”

“I’m not five years old, you know.”

“You act like it.”

He heaved, “what is it that you want?”

“The annual end of spring Min party is in a few days—”

“I know.”

You shut your eyes as a remedy for patience which you needed to channel every ounce of. “We need to. .” you muttered, “get things together.”

“You and Yoongi have been best friends since forever. There’s no room to fabricate much.”

“But we do need to get certain details straight.”

“Analyze away.”

You weren’t looking at him, your eyes were set on the multitude of birds utilizing the fountain nearby.

“We’ll tell them you and I became closer during this past summer. I know they think they’re giving us freedom but between my father and the Min’s they have practically already planned our wedding,” you cleared your throat, “well Yoongi and I that is.”

“Got it,” Yoojin nodded, “so pretend they haven’t been setting up this whole thing. Cool. What about your mom?”

“What about her?”

“After this yesterday morning. How do we convince her?”

“There’s no convincing her really but we cannot falter in our plans or she will schedule more Soobin dates.”

“I thought that was stamped as strictly platonic?”

“Since when have our parents cared about our opinions?”

“I suggest running away,” his joke had a bitter aftertaste which resided in the back of your throat.

“I know you’re good at that,” the words left your mouth, before you even processed them.

“Right.”

“Actually Houdini,” the mood shifted and although it was within your full intentions to maintain some sort of peace between the two of you moving forward, sometimes you just couldn’t help it, “after you disappeared, Yoongi and I scattered under your parents’ instructions to find you. They knew of your love for Thailand and Los Angeles so we went there for a couple of days but we obviously did not find you.”

“You searched for me?”

“We searched for you,” you corrected, “but after we came back our parents’ scrutiny became harsher and they began meddling in our personal life a lot more than they would.”

“All because I left. .”

It wasn’t really a question but you answered anyway by nodding your head, “I guess your parents were scared of losing Yoongi as well and even on the sidelines mine grew weary that I would do the same.”

He didn’t say anything—just continued staring off into the distance. Yoojin’s expression remained blank and again you despised how little he expressed through his emotion.

“Are you going to be ok seeing your parents after so long?”

“I’ll be fine. .”

“I suppose fine is okay but we have to be perfect.”

“We’ll be better than perfect.”

His lack of words was haunting and only accentuated the dismal afternoon. Right then you noticed the darkened tone the clouds had now adopted. If it didn’t seem like rain was on the forecast before, it most definitely was now.

You shivered a bit as a swift breeze sweeped by. In the back of your mind, you knew your walk back to your apartment as overdue but

“What if we have to kiss in front of them?”

“What of it?”

“Can I kiss you?”

“If we’re dating I can’t necessarily shove you away, Yoojin.”

“I know. .” he murmured, “it’s just. This is super significant to you. I just wanted to make sure.”

“Not all of us run wild with your privilege at freedom. I’m doing what I can to satisfy my needs for now.”

“Satisfy your needs,” he licked his rose tinted lips.

You rolled your eyes, “Be fucking mature.”

“You made it too easy.”

Yoojin’s humor still tickled at your sides, and although you wanted to utter as much as a giggle, all your mind could muster up derived from every thing that happened that night all of those years ago.

You were aware you were being a bit resentful but your pain is irrefutable and there was nothing he could do to change the past or make you forget.

You would always resent him for it.

“Do you really have to walk around with your camera around your neck at all times?”

“You never know when something beautiful might turn up. I gotta be ready for anything.”

“You’re such a photographer,” you scoffed.

The trees were a deep emerald, it matched the color of Yoojin’s shirt. You hadn’t really noticed before. It was within your full intent to keep your eyes away from him—anything to stop your mind from behaving as recklessly as your heart. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

“Says the one who walked around school with overalls splattered with paint all over.”

“I’ve grown from that. You’re twenty-five looking exactly the same as you did all those years back.”

“Exactly the same?”

“That’s what I said.”

He laughed airily, almost snorting in the process. It was cute—NO. No it wasn’t.

“So I look exactly the same as the boy you couldn’t resist back in senior year?”

You hated him so much.

“The only difference is he was a better person.”

“I’ve changed, you know.”

“If you have to announce that you’ve changed then it makes it a little impossible to believe.”

“You haven’t even given me a chance.”

“That’s a little hard to do when my welcome was you butt ass naked in Yoongi’s kitchen, when you act one way around others and the complete opposite around me,” you spewed without caution, “you have not changed Yoojin. We are both here for a reason. Can we please not fuck it up for Yoongi?”

“Of course.”

On the day of your eighteenth birthday when the little hand on the clock struck twelve, you developed a tunnel vision with your own means of finding an apartment in order to reap some sort of freedom.

And eventually you sort of did.

Because while your apartment is far from your parents’ estate it simply wasn’t far enough and impromptu visits from your mom, like the one from this morning weren’t completely uncommon.

You supposed it was freedom on a limited time offer—but some was better than none at all.

Living in your parents’ house you often had to hide; of course they were aware of what they often referred to as your ‘less than ideal’ hobbies. Your life at their house was your own personal hell, a living nightmare and day-by-day you bore the grating corners of your soul. They disposed of your art tools, made calls to unregister you from art classes, they even destroyed your paintings with little regard to your hard work. Truly, they marked the worst years of your life.

Thankfully, you were able to make a clean escape, setting up your own art studio was the first step towards healing. You were able to work freely and display your work without a care in the world.

This was your haven; the only place where you were cocooned with warmth and safety.

So profoundly safe.

Sitting on the stool you stared at the blank canvas on the eisel, while an abundance of ideas streamed in your mind nothing was clear enough to portray. Your thoughts were jumbled into one like scribbles on a blank page all circling the one name you told yourself no longer resided within you.

The embellished walls of your makeshift exhibit were beaming as your paintings were hung on them with black frames. Every single one pinpointed a memorable time in your life—ranging from the beach you visited with the Mins’ every summer; the gardens in your family home you often used to escape to after school; the skate park Yoojin used to drag you and Yoongi to on Sunday afternoons; among other scenic places you were able to capture in your past.

It was a bittersweet stroll down memory lane.

That was typically your art style, capturing the landscapes that graced your vision.

There was your one attempt at a portrait up on the farthest wall from you. The brush strokes on his face featured the ample curves of his ethereal face, his hair sat on his head so perfectly as it usually did. Although, he was the real inspiration you had presented that exact painting as a gift to your very own best friend.

It was Yoongi to everyone else but it was Yoojin to you and it would only ever be Yoojin.

“I’m so glad you answered my texts,” Yoojin opened the passenger door to his car and stood aside waiting for you to go in but you stood beside him instead.

“Your power of persuasion has always been excessive. .” While you were couped up in the house, pulsed to the ends of earth by your own mind, reflection and existence Min Yoojin was the last person you intended on having an outing with.

“I didn’t hold a weapon to your head,” he argued, his eyebrows furrowed at the extent of your accusation, “you could have said no.”

“Get dressed. I'm picking you up in an hour,” you recited the text word for word from your phone, “doesn’t really supply much room for decision making.”

“Will you just get in the car please?”

“I do not take orders from you, Yoojin.”

“Oh, come on,” he leaned in closer to you as his lips shadowed over the shell of your ear. You felt as if you were out at sea, floating aimlessly as the tide dragged you farther and farther away. “That was one of the many things you loved about me.”

You elbowed his side, he grunted at the blow to his ribs, “I think you forget that your charms are dormant with me. Your spark has dimmed out.”

“My spark is everlasting.”

“Well, it died the moment you walked away,” you deadpanned.

“Just please get in the car,” he tried once more, he was exasperated by your banter but it only fueled your desire to see him crumble.

You scoffed, “Only because you said please.”

The minute you sat down your nostrils were invaded by the dominant fragrance of cedarwood and cypress inundating his car. A scent which was only unique to Min Yoojin, it tainted every inch of his skin; like the various paints which marked their territory on your canvas’. Just as that painting of him which wreaked havoc in your own heaven. It was intoxicating, invasive. . and just as alluring as you remembered.

If you could pinch your nose to block the smell you would.

“I hope you don’t plan to be lulled by your phone the entire time,” he closed the car door behind him before starting the engine.

“I hope you don’t think this is an open invitation for interminable conversations,” you rolled your eyes, still scrolling aimlessly through countless apps.

“I never took you for holding grudges.”

“I never took you for someone who would just believe he would be so easily forgiven,” a deep rancor rooted deep within you.

His knuckles hugged the steering wheel just a bit tighter, “I’m trying to make amends.”

“Fuck making amends, Yoojin. You’re exhausting.”

“And you’re not?” His tone blared within the small space of the vehicle. There was no serenity in your futile wanders across the deep blue sea. The foreboding clouds neared and raucous rumbles roared loudly—the streaks of thunder snapped the sky into pieces. You were astounded but he continued, “fuck I’m trying. You see that I’m trying. Don’t you?”

“Trying does nothing for me,” you yelled back.

He sighed, “I suppose we only tolerate each other today. . For Yoongi, as you say.”

The remaining car ride was soundless— the silence was increasingly deafening, causing your ears to ring continuously. It simulated the same insipid screams of lightning.

Still, you remained weightless in the buoyancy of the water.

You knew you weren’t a victim, you continued landing jabs at him. Out of pettiness, spite, vengeance. . whatever it was you dismantled him and you proceeded being drifted off by the soundless waves. The shore was no longer in your line of vision. Yoojin was mangled, though. You could read it in his features, with protruding pouty bottom lip, watery eyes and the indented wrinkles marking his forehead. Even when you found it in your heart to feel the slightest taint of remorse, you still remembered that he broke you first.

“What are we doing here?” The car pulled up to the Min boutique owned by Yoojin and Yoongi’s mother herself.

“You know how particular my mother can be about her ridiculous parties. She forwarded Yoongi the dress code set out for the both of you,” he explained, “and I figured it would be more bearable if the two of us endured this together.”

“So this is our first public outing. . Together?”

“Together.”

“You could have warned me.”

He leaned back on the leather seat, “I would but you’re so difficult to communicate with sometimes.”

“I could say the same about you.”

His eyes became ignited behind inextinguible flames and you could see your very own reflection burning away into ashes. It wasn’t always within your intention to rile him up continuously but it came so naturally to you.

“Can we just get through the afternoon?”

“I can definitely pretend.”

After handing his car keys to the valet, you and Yoojin walked into the Mins’ Boutique with your balmy palms clasped together, and your slender fingers intertwined.

Mindy, the store clerk greeted the two of you, “I organized the private fitting room with all your favorites and all the pieces in accord with your mother’s preferred dress code.”

“Thank you, Mindy,” the two of you followed the store clerk as she led the way up the glass stairs, away from all of the store attendees on the first floor, “you are too good to us.”

She was a short woman in her mid-forties who had been employed at the Min boutique for many years before you even knew Yoongi. She was graceful and often treated you and the twins as her very own children when you came in to visit.

Mindy was also someone your parents’ could not buy into your life—she too resided within the pumping walls of your heart.

“How are you doing?” She pushed open the clear doubled doors revealing the massive dressing room. The lights seemed bright and in the farthest wall there were two seperate rooms hidden behind dark green curtains. In the middle of the room there was a coffee table containing a champagne bottle in a metal chiller bucket, two glasses half way full and a silver platter with a handful of finger sandwiches, “I hear there’s romance sparking between you two.”

“Oh, yes,” Yoojin released you from his tight grip and traveled deeper into the private room, “we began seeing each other this past summer.”

“I always thought you would end up with one of those love birds,” she patted your shoulder lightly, you chuckled lightly in response, “just I always thought it would be Yoojin.” she whispered for only you to hear.

“He’s gone, Mindy,” in a way even though Yoojin was right there just a few feet in front of you, it was as if he wasn’t here at all.

“He’ll be back my darling,” her smile was soft; comforting, “If you guys need anything please be sure to let me know.”

“We will. Thank you Mindy,” she vowed and exited the room before leaving you and Yoojin alone.

“What was Mindy talking about?”

You took a sip of the bubbly liquor, “There was no specific topic.”

“But the two of you were glaring at me.”

“Noone was glaring at you.” We were discussing our intertwined destinies—she thinks you and I belong together. “You are so self centered, Yoojin.”

“Self centered?”

“That’s what I said.”

He threw his hands up in defeat, “Let’s just get to the clothes. Shall we?”

He signaled you towards the dressing room while picking up his phone disregarding your existence entirely, and the remainder of the time at the Min Boutique ticked away quickly as you rushed through the countless outfits laid out for you.

One after the other, Your temples glistened with sweat as you rushed into the fifth and last outfit—the one you perceived closer to your own personal style. It’s a white spaghetti strap mid-thigh dress with a ruffle hemline.

Trying it on felt like a breath of fresh air compared to everything you’d discarded previously. It hugged your body in all the right places, accentuating every single curve.

“Weren’t you supposed to come out and show me some of the clothes?”

“No, I don’t think I was supposed to do anything,” After changing back into your own clothes you walked out from behind the curtain with the dress in your hand.

He walked up behind you—those fucking butterflies erupted at your stomach once again, “lucky for you I like surprises.”

author’s note: this chapter kinda sucked but i hope its an enjoyable read nevertheless.

thanks for reading. comments, likes, reblogs and messages are always appreciated. let me know what you think ;)

#bts #bts fics #bts imagines #bts reactions #min yoongi #suga #agust d #suga x you #suga x reader #yoongi x you #yoongi x reader #suga x y/n #mention of choi soobin #park jimin #bts smut #yoongi angst #bts angst #bangtan sonyeondan #yoongi smut

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wastingmylifesecondatatime · 6 months ago

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Park Jimin Masterlist - Series

Updated: 26.07.2024 ✔ = completed 🔞 = mature Other masterlists: mother masterlist; bts masterlist

NEW ADDITIONS:

Nothing yet...

Hello Again by @oh-so-scenarios

↳ “Through his many years, Mr. Park has come across many faces. But, there was one that he didn’t think he’d ever see again.”

↳ Chapters: 2/?

↳ Supernatural AU

✔ Horns & Halos by ahgastae

↳ “between having a werewolf as her best friend, his ghost-hunting roommate, and her own magical clumsiness, y/n’s a witch who is sure her life can’t get any weirder. that is until she finds herself in need of some new roommates, and it turns out her first choices aren’t exactly what they seem.

or the one where y/n unknowingly gains herself a guardian demon - and her guardian angel isn’t happy about it.”

↳ Chapters: 32/32

↳ Supernatural AU

I’m Not Who You Think I Am by sevenwho

↳ “There used to be two Kingdoms the one of Humans and the one of Supernaturals. They used to live in peace until Queen Y/N the First was blinded by her feelings and power and she attacked the other kingdom, extinguishing all the species that existed. Well, nearly. Some of them survived and they live in the deepest forests of the BTS Kingdom, one of them being Prince Park Jimin, he’s a demon, as all in the royal family of the fallen kingdom are. He seeks revenge from the Human Kingdom. He has a certain hate towards the simple humans, he believes that they all are the same and extremely disgusting; Especially their leaders. Them he wants to kill. Prince Park Jimin will attempt on assassinating the Kind and Queen of the Kingdom of Peace (formerly known as Kingdom of Humans) along with their two children, Princess Y/N the Second and Prince Jungkook. He’s certain he’ll achieve his mission… but will he really?”

↳ Chapters: 8/?

↳ Supernatural AU

Lucky Cat by scenedipity

↳ “Jimin has a stray hybrid in his house. Looking like she hasn’t eaten in ages and not much of a talker but she does seem to like his chicken soup.”

↳ Chapters: 8/?

↳ Hybrid AU

Show Me In Your Teeth by magicalsalamander

↳ “Hybrids were common amongst civilians, but monsters lurked, created by the government. H.O.U.N.D, pronounced hound, is Hybrid Operation in United Negotiation of Defense, an allegiance of hybrids and federal officers. They were weapons breed for tactic and war. Special agent Y/L/N came back marked a failure after your secret last mission. Politics involved, you were to be assigned a Hound officer. What happens when the monster, Cerberus, gets assigned to you?”

↳ Chapters: 1/2

↳ Hybrid AU

Unorthodox by chaoticneutralwriter

↳ “Everyone has a guardian angel except you. You have a guardian demon. He deals with things in a much more violent fashion, but much more effective.”

↳ Chapters: 31/?

↳ Supernatural AU

#smut #angst #fluff #masterlist #fic rec #bts #imagine #park jimin x reader #park jimin

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bangtanwritershq · 2 years ago

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BangtanWritersHQ Presents: “May Angst” Masterlist

For May 2023, we put together a collection of fics to bring the angst on! We asked our members to share with us their angstiest stories so that we could share them with you! If you are in an angsty mood, this masterlist is for you! In this post, you’ll find fics from our network members that feature angst with a happy ending, angst with a sad ending, pure angst with no ending in sight, or anything in between, with various AU types and tropes!

Browse at your leisure and ENJOY!

KEY:

🔞 - nsfw (mature themes) ✅ - sfw (no warnings) 💖 - smut ⚠️ - other warnings

SET UP - emojis: Title (if link is to another platform) | Author [parts] pairings, genre/aus, rating, word count

🔞 💖 ⚠️ I Put A Spell On You | @colormepurplex2 [2/2] Pairing: Jimin x Reader | Jungkook x Reader AU Type: Demon/Vampire/Witch | smut, angst Rating: MA WC: 9,257

🔞 💖 ⚠️ Your Guardian Angel | @colormepurplex2 [2/2] Pairing: Seokjin x Reader AU Type: F2L | heavy angst, mild smut Rating: MA WC: 14,887

⚠️ Come Back To Me (twitter) | @btskitten7 [1/1] Pairing: Yoong x f.OC AU Type: Drabble | Angst Rating: MA WC: 800

All stories copywritten of the specified author. The authors provided consent for their stories to the network to be shared by submitting their stories. Stories posted in the order of submission to the event.

#BWHQ #BWHQ Writing Event #BWHQ Writing Events #BWHQ Network #bangtanwhq #bangtan writers hq #bangtan writers hq network #bts imagines #bts #bts reactions #bts fanfic #bts fanfiction #bts scenarios #bts x reader #bts smut #bts au #bts angst #bts fluff

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colormepurplex2 · 1 year ago

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ColorMePurplex2's Kim Seokjin Masterlist

RATING: (regardless, this space is not for minors) G - general audience | PG - strong, suggestive language | PG-13 - frequent use of strong language, grittier subject matter | R - large amounts of vulgar language and adult references | MA - strictly for adults 18+ WARNINGS: please do not take these lightly, if it’s listed that means you can expect to encounter it DISCLAIMER: I do not claim to own any part of BTS. All members of BTS are faces and name claims for these stories. Every post is entirely a work of fiction and by no means is meant to be a projection, judgement, or representation of real-life people. Any scenarios or representations of the people and places mentioned in my works are not representative of real-life scenarios.

▻ Your Guardian Angel ↳ Pairing: x f.Reader ┉ AU/Trope(s): Non-Idol, Friends to Lovers ⤜ Genre(s): angst, surprise fluff, mild smut ⤜ Rating: MA Chapters: [2/2] WC: 14,887 Summary: Ever secretly been in love with your best friend just to have to watch them go through some of the worst moments of their life and not be able to help? Seokjin has. He just wants to help you, to love you, to be your guardian angel…will you let him? ⚠️ This is a heavy fic with depictions of domestic violence and mental manipulation/degradation. Reader starts off in an established relationship with some serious issues. This is in no way a glorification of these acts, it’s intended as the opposite. Everything is written based on personal experience with minor changes to fit into a fanfic narrative and for personal privacy. Please check the beginning of each chapter for specific warnings.

▻ Masks & Merlot ↳ Pairing: x f.Reader ┉ AU/Trope(s): Drunken Love Confessions, Mutual Pining, Childhood Friends to Lovers ⤜ Genre(s): angst, smut ⤜ Rating: MA Chapters: [2/2] WC: 13,961 Summary: Seokjin has a secret, one he hides behind a mask of responsibility and duty to his family, but a few bottles of wine have his lips loosening. Do you indulge his whispered confession or brush it off as merely merlot-colored fantasies? ⚠️ Crass language, hurt feelings, talk of death of a parent, talk of parent with terminal cancer, servitude mentality, heavily skewed power dynamics/objectification of women, parental abuse/physical abuse, heavy drinking, bad feelings, oral f. receiving, fingering, drunken advances, emotional gut-punching Please check the beginning of each chapter for specific warnings.

WIPS: Vindication - lovers to exes to lovers, pregnancy, heartache

◅ Back to MAIN Masterlist

Check out my other Masterlists: OT7 x Reader/OT7 Kim Namjoon Kim Seokjin Min Yoongi Jung Hoseok Park Jimin Kim Taehyung Jeon Jungkook Multi-Member x Reader/OC Member x Member

©️ 2021-23 ColorMePurplex2

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mccnlightjelly · 6 months ago

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*ੈ ♡ ‧₊˚ primary muses

arlo cho - he/him - early to mid 20's - portrayed by park wonbin a rebellious & thrill-seeking young man who is constantly the bane of his mother's existence. definitely has his father's temper & anger issues; doesn't care who he hurts with his words when emotions run high. born with all the luxuries in the world but despises them all, choosing to spend most of his days racing expensive cars & selling drugs to the elite members of society. harbors an unhealthy resentment towards his neglectful but ridiculously wealthy parents. acts out in a desperate attempt for attention, but will die before admitting to it. stoic & aloof but has the softest spot for animals. gentle & kind if someone's made the effort in chipping away at the forcefully hardened exterior. au's: royal verse - demi-god verse - devilman verse

elliot hwang - he/him - early 20's - portrayed by choi beomgyu a university student who was raised by his strict grandmother after his parent's tragic death. a gentle soul with a heart condition taking him from the world far too early; an absolute optimist despite his short life span. he's got an affinity for botany & spends most of his time in the gardens sketching or daydreaming. loyal & loving; everyone considers him their best friend & vice versa. usually a talker, but he finds it easiest to isolate himself when upset. rides his bike everywhere & always brings along his cat, kiki, for the ride. full of life, hoping to share it with the world before it's too late.

au's: guardian angel verse

eren kang - he/him - mid to late 20's - portrayed by song kang a server at his family's failing restaurant who lives a second life as an underground fighter in order to pay off his parents' debt & provide for his siblings. the eldest son with all the pressure on his shoulders; older brother to twin boys ten years his junior. a good-natured & caring man; hates the fact that he likes fighting. a bit of an anime & gaming nerd. has a terrible tendency to ignore & bottle his negative emotions; ends up exploding as a result. an absolute heart of gold though he constantly torn between the responsibility of caring for his family & living his own life. au's: royal verse - red dead redemption verse

noah park - he/him - early to mid 20's - portrayed by choi soobin a university student & ace of his uni's volleyball team. born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but to neglectful parents who cared only of their businesses; loving & energetic despite that, enjoys making people smile & laugh. basically raised by his nannies. an avid believer in retail therapy who can & will spend at least $500 a day on materialistic expenses; consequently resulting in his main love language being gift giving. the life of the party who everyone has had a crush on at some point; goes out to ignore the overwhelming sense of loneliness he feels at home. a soft boy to his core.

au's: idol verse - vampire verse - mermaid verse - stranger things verse

park jihun - he/him - early to mid 20's - portrayed by choi yeonjun an idol & socialite who's been in the limelight for as long as he could remember & excels at nearly everything he sets his mind to. a little brother to park minjun. exceptionally passionate about his career, & is somewhat cocky, though he fears he will constantly be overshadowed by his older brother's success as a renowned choreographer. charismatic & enticing as they come; a visual that people just can't take their eyes off of. cares & loves deeply; easily jealous, yet (usually) unwilling to commit. the 'it boy' with a stack of nda's in his bedside table. au's: demon verse - wizarding world verse

park minjun - he/they - mid to late 20's - portrayed by park jimin OR lee juyeon a renowned choreographer & socialite who owns his own prestigious dance studio in new york city. an older brother to park jihun & his number one fan. was set to debut as an idol but quit the industry due to it's negative impact on his mental health. a passionate & enthusiastic man who is full of life. cares deeply for others & it shows. an absolute foodie & car lover. owns more luxury & vintage vehicles than he likes to admit. puts his heart & soul into everything he sets his mind to. just a man who's settled for a life behind the scenes, but will always wonder what could have been.

au's: demon verse - idol verse

phoenix [ nix ] seong - he/him - mid to late 20's - portrayed by jeon jungkook a guitarist/front man of the heavy metal band SINNERS & socialite who wants nothing more than to live the life that he wants; not the life his parents laid out for him. brooding & aloof to most, but softhearted & gentle to those who put in the effort. pessimistic by default, unable (or unwilling) to forget how others have hurt him in the past. owns a ducati superleggera v4 motorcycle that he enjoys flaunting & a doberman named cerberus. he finds solace & comfort in music, & can spend all day in bed listening to records. a somewhat misunderstood man who just wants to share his music with the world. au's: immortal verse - vampire verse - royal verse

yoo daeshim - he/they - mid to late 20's - portrayed by kim taehyung a model & socialite who represents his mother's very successful agency. he's been called a nepo baby, but he's worked hard to get his career where it is today. an only child who had always been his parents' pride & joy. outgoing & fun-loving; a people person. bold & charismatic, & will shamelessly flirt with anyone he finds attractive. he's materialistic as they come & won't hesitate to fly on his private jet to paris out of sheer boredom. cunning & ruthless if he has to be. but all in all, a hopeless romantic who loves to be loved.

au's: greek god verse - immortal verse

aurora [ rora ] kwon - she/her - early 20's - portrayed by jang wonyoung a child prodigy & medical intern who graduated high school at the age of 10, university at the age of 14 & then medical school at 18. currently completing her residency program at a hospital run by her father. bubbly & down to earth, but she'll always carry the burden of the world's expectations on her shoulders. cares deeply about people & it's obvious in the way she treats patients. an absolute perfectionist who can't help but to stress herself out unintentionally. a workaholic through & through. grew up a bit spoiled, but she'd never admit it. loves all things sweet & pink. doesn't have a mean bone in her body. a girlboss who just wants to save peoples' lives.

au's: royal verse - mermaid verse - idol verse

cleo moon - she/her - early to mid 20's - portrayed by shin ryujin a tattoo artist who dropped out of art school a year into the program. the eldest daughter to 3 younger brothers, raised by a deadbeat dad. stubborn & slightly aloof, prefers to keep her circle of friends small. heavily shelters her heart. nicotine addict who always loses her vape. can easily spend her days drawing up flash sheets while the smiths plays in the background & her cat, luna, naps by her side. somewhat pessimistic; a half glass empty type of person. isn't afraid to stand her ground. a resilient young woman who had to take on way too much at a young age. au's: wizarding world verse - hand maiden verse - fallout verse

ella perkins - she/her - early to mid to 20's - portrayed by sabrina carpenter an esthetician & beauty influencer who uses her platform to spread positivity. a little (half) sister to lucy perkins & former pageant queen. charismatic & self-assured, though that doesn't mean she's exempt from doubting herself every so often. deeply rooted father & abandonment issues. self - reliant, sometimes even to a fault. raised by a single mother, she's been taught to never rely on a man (or anyone besides yourself, for that matter). a sweet girl with a rough childhood who strives to promote the importance of self-love, while refusing to address her desire to be loved by another.

au's: fairy verse

evie lee - she/her - early to mid 20's - portrayed by hwang yeji a writer & university student who has gained moderate popularity publishing her series of short poems. a child of divorce, her best friend & main confidant had always been her twin brother, everette. discovered her love of literature at a young age & used it as a way to express herself, as well as a coping mechanism. charming & captivating, yet she's never been able to make the right decisions when it comes to her love life. can be malicious if provoked. not afraid to flirt & dally in order to get her way. an enchanting girl who never quite learned how to love or how to *be loved* properly. au's: fairy verse - siren verse

hana min - she/her - early to mid 20's - portrayed by kim chaewon a newly debuted idol who was born & raised in new york city. part of a nine member girl group called CLOUD9 where she holds the main vocalist & visual positions. a talented & hardworking girl with an obvious passion for music & performing. a fan favorite since pre-debut, she's on a fast track towards the 'it girl' title. kind-hearted & down to earth, doing her best to showcase her authentic self. seldom grows angry, but terrifying when she does. half glass full type of girl. innocent by default, but harbors a fiery side as well. just a girl living her dream life.

au's: non-idol verse

haruka ito - she/her - mid to late 20's - portrayed by minatozaki sana an actress that is usually casted as the female lead in dramas who's family is highly ranked within the yakuza. charismatic & ambitious, she had always known she'd make a living out of performing. only daughter & youngest child; has 3 older brothers. never short on confidence & very much aware of her beauty. loves being the center of attention, & can light up the room with her big & bright personality. a closeted bisexual with a slight preference towards other women. somewhat competitive & willing to go to extremes to get her way. a self-proclaimed princess who has been spoiled from the moment she was born. au's: royal verse - pirate verse - red dead redemption verse - dragon ball z verse

imogen [ immy ] boudreaux - she/her - early to mid 20's - portrayed by shen xiaoting a ballerina performing for new york city ballet who was adopted into an extremely wealthy family as an infant. smart & incredibly headstrong, she never hesitates to speak her mind. unapologetic & stubborn at times. somewhat naive due to a sheltered upbringing. very grateful for the life she lives, but admittedly still curious about her birth parents & native culture. competitive in nature, almost to a fault; won't settle for anything less than the lead role. dreams of one day starting her own ballet academy & company. a gifted dancer who yearns to know where she came from.

au's: vampire verse

lucy perkins - she/her - mid to late 20's - portrayed by nicola peltz a stripper & aspiring musician finally living out her best life in los angeles. a vibrant & sensual woman whose confidence levels exceeds most people's. breathtakingly beautiful & she absolutely knows it. an older (half) sister to ella perkins. spends her weekends under neon lights & booming bass. fearless & ruthless; literally hitchhiked from the midwest to the west coast. working through her daddy issues every single day. loves being the center of attention & isn't afraid to admit it. a woman who knows her worth & will never settle for less than she deserves. au's: moulin rouge verse - mermaid verse

miyeon ' violet ' lee - mid to late 20's - portrayed by jennie kim OR soojin a socialite who waltzes through life due to her charismatic personality & captivating beauty. the type of girl who isn't used to being told no. kiho lee's older sister & number one supporter. smart & witty, but filled with untapped potential. the 'it girl' & frequent party-goer. absolutely despises her korean name due to bullying when her family moved to the US permanently. will never pass up brunch or a girl's night out. a somewhat pretentious woman that still has a heart of gold.

au's: wizarding world verse - royal verse - pirate verse

*ੈ ♡ ‧₊˚ secondary muses

#dni.

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antisocial-mochi267 · 1 year ago

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JIMIN fic recs oneshot PART 1

Hope it helps to find you the great fics! Hope it helps!! And please leave a comment/like/reblog or any reviews guys the writers should receive the appreciation they deserve (I'll be eventually adding more fics here)

Minors strictly DNI

And if you want recs about any particular trope or au I'm always willing to help 👀🤗

Oneshot :-

Fluff :- ☁️

Angst :- 🥀

Smut :- 🔥

Crack :- 🎃

Personal Favourite :- ✨

1. you.Me.us__ ☁️🔥🥀 (stalker, yandere , thriller) @kosmosguk

2. Driver's license __ ☁️🥀✨ (coming-of-age, one-sided!au, brother's bestfriend!au) @gyukult

3.while you are at it __ ☁️🔥(pool boy jimin, divorced reader). @aureumjeon

4. I need you __ ☁️🔥🥀(exes to lovers, oneshot, idol au) @hisunshiine

5. Crystal snow __ ☁️🥀✨ (figure skating!au, fantasy!au, king jimin, supernatural power). @minniepetals

6. Vampire's garden__☁️🎃(College student jimin, fantasy, dark fantasy, vampire au). @ebonyinktea

7. soliloquy __☁️🎃 (Angel jimin× human reader). @kinktae

8. schrödinger’s cat__ ☁️🎃✨(guardian angel jimin, comfort) @dovechim

9. Azure blue__☁️🎃✨(Adventure, Fairy!Au ) @jimlingss

10. The pull of the tides __☁️🔥(surfur au, Strangers to lovers) @goldenscript

11. Fairytale__☁️🎃(merman jimin × human reader) @gukyi

12. Rock bottom __☁️🥀🔥✨( Idol!Jimin, establishedrelationship!AU, marriage! AU) @jkbabiey

13. Boats against the current __☁️🎃✨ (Hogwarts au, opposite to lovers). @gukyi

14. Into the wilderness __☁️🥀🎃✨ (camp counselor!au, unrequited love!au, friends to lovers!au) @gukyi

15. Lover to lean on__☁️🥀🔥🎃✨ (neighbour au, flower shop au, it's more complicated) @sketchguk

16. Paper bandits __☁️🎃(highschool au, S2F2L) @vantaenims

17. Blowing dandelions __☁️🥀🔥(badboy jimin, e2l, childhood friends, college au). @httpjeon

18. Grinch in law__☁️🥀🔥✨(fiance to marriage, bad to good mother-in-law, established relationship) @mercurygguk

19. Cut me free__☁️🥀🔥(Demon Yandere jimin ) @sopejinsunflower

20. Earnestly yours __ ☁️🎃✨(Highschool au , enemies to lovers , actor au) @gukyi

21. Theophany (To Paint a God) __☁️🥀🔥 (college!au , Old Friends to Lovers , Best Friend’s Brother!Jimin , Bisexual!Reader , Dancer!Jimin , Painter!Reader) @ilikemesometaetaes

22. Hello__ ☁️🥀🔥✨(exestolovers!au, high school pining, adult love, slice of life au ) @gyukult

23. Only you __ ☁️🔥 (single dad jimin, best friends to lovers au) @personasintro

24. Hell-ish__☁️🎃 (establisedrelationship, kinda fun date) @jtrbluv

25. 20 things and continuing I Hades about you__☁️🥀🎃✨ (dj famous jimin× pa reader) @readyplayerhobi

26. Just a little bit of love(is all you really need)__☁️🎃 (gymnastics au) @gukyi

27. Poster boy __ ☁️ (highschool au, social anxiety, comfort) @versigny

28. He's pretending__☁️🎃✨ (Enemies-to-lovers (kinda, jimin is in deniel but lowkey wipped) Daemon!Jimin x Faerie!Reader, fantasy au). @crystaljins

29. Adonis __☁️🎃 (firefighter jimin, s2l ). @xjoonchildx

30. Red gardania__☁️✨ (ballerina au, secret admirer, kinda e2l ) @joyfulhopelox

31. Shake shack __☁️🔥🎃(stranger to crushes to lovers) @kth1

32. The happiest place on earth __☁️🎃🔥 (Disneyland actors au, slice of life au) @dovechim

33. The midnight pack __☁️🎃🔥 (wolf au, S2L) @jjungkookislife

34. Terrible liar__☁️🥀✨ (F2L, pinning , comfort) @writtenwhalien

35. All that glitters __☁️🥀🎃✨(kinda soft Yandere/ tsudere jimin , Obsession) @deepdarkdelights

36. Deviant affairs __☁️🔥🥀(new Yandere stepbro jimin ) @yandere-society

37. Believe it __☁️🥀🔥✨(friends to enemies to lovers (it’s more complicated though)+ bet AU , high school to after high school) @writtenwhalien

38. Love you a latte__☁️🎃(Yandere Jimin, Stalking, Masturbation, obsession, it's kinda angsty though) @worldwidemochiguy

39. Heartbreak Insurance__☁️🎃✨ (insurance agent jimin× fraud reader, S2 F2 L) @jimlingss

40. Wicked obsession __🔥☁️(University AU, friends with benefits, unhealthy obsession) @peachypinkygloss

41. Love pages__☁️🥀(Yandere, highschool au, supernatural kinda) @jimlingss

42. The devil's own luck__☁️🥀🎃✨ (demon jimin , Slice of Life). @jimlingss

43. Beneath the water __☁️🥀🔥🎃✨(merman jimin× human reader, mermaid au, fantasy au). @jungshookz

44. His hoodie my hoodie__☁️🔥🎃✨ ( S2F2L, college au) @yoongihime

45. Kiss the girl__☁️🎃 (Disney land prince jimin×waitress girl, f2l, whipped) @sketchguk

46. Devil's advocate__☁️🎃(devil jimin ×human reader) @7cypher

47. No need for dreaming__☁️🎃(roommate au, clumsy jimin, frenemies to lovers) @ve1vetyoongi

48. Nine to five__☁️🎃🔥(softie smut, fwb2L, Dr. jm) @jiminrings

49. Just a taste__☁️🥀🔥🎃(Vampire jimin, established relationship). @yoonieper

50. Safe haven__☁️🥀🔥✨(royal king’s guard werewolf!jimin × princess reader, forbidden love au, medieval royal au) @kth1fics

51. Spiral__☁️🥀✨(Time traveler Jimin, teenager! reader, underground fighter! Jimin, time jumps, violence, blood, supernatural) @i-am-baechu

52. Red flag__☁️🎃🔥✨( richboy!jimin x mystery!reader, strangers to enemies to lovers to potential plaintiff) @xjoonchildx

#jimin fic #bts x reader #yandere!jimin #jimin smut #jimin comfort #bts fic rec #jimin fic recs #jimin fluff #jimin angst #bts fic #pjm #park jimin #jimin × reader #bts fanfic #bts imagines #bts jimin #jimin oneshot

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lil-meow-meow-goes-rawr · 6 years ago

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An Angel’s Sacrifice

My first Jimin fic!

Guardian Angel!Jimin

angsty

kind of odd, if I’m honest but worth the read

Warnings: mentions of blood and death

The cold, silent air seems to press down around me. Suffocating me. The light breeze carries a few stray leaves, dragging them across the empty streets. I don’t expect to see many people. It’s nearly midnight after all. Yet, as I walk the back streets toward home, I find it unsettling just how quiet it is. Even the dogs along my route are silent tonight.

A full moon shines brightly above me, lighting my path. A few stray clouds drift past, but they’re not even worth noticing. They do nothing to obscure the light.

My feet quicken their pace. A chill runs down my spine but I doubt it’s from the chill of the evening. I feel as if I’m being watched, though there’s no one else around. Even the homeless man who spends his nights on the bench alongside the walking path, isn’t there.

As I round the corner, home only being a block ahead, something catches my eye. To the left, down the stretch of road that ends at a field, is a house I’ve never noticed before. I stop, staring at it. I walk these streets every day. How have I never seen it? My feet move without my consent, leading me toward the unknown building.

Standing before it now, I have to marvel at its beauty. Grand french doors sit in the center of an elegant porch. I count fifteen windows simply on the front of the mansion. Some are domed with a balcony of their own, while others are taller than I am.

I gape at the magnificence of it. Though the mansion is beautiful, it’s clearly been forgotten for many years. The beautiful white walls are chipped and fading to a dull yellow. A few of the windows are broken and it appears as though someone has carved markings into the wooden doors.

I’m so sure that I have never seen it before, and yet something calls out to me. Moving me forward in a trance. The place feels familiar. Like a memory I can’t quite place.

As I ascend the broken stairs toward the doors, I become frighteningly aware of the silence. Even the wind has stopped blowing. The only sound is that of my own jagged breathing and racing heartbeat.

I swallow hard as I reach for the door handle. I’m not sure why I’m about to enter. If I were in my right mind, I would turn and run, putting as much distance between myself and the mansion as I could. However, something’s telling me it’s alright. I can enter.

No.

I need to enter.

Swallowing hard, I pull the door open and a blast of wind barrels into me. I’m prepared for the scent of mold and must that comes with old buildings. What I’m met with instead has me confused. The air is scented sweet. A scent I can’t identify but one that is so very familiar.

I close my eyes and breathe in deep. The sweet scent takes over my senses and for a moment, I believe I can hear someone singing. The voice of an angel. A voice so familiar, it draws me inside and the door swings closed behind me.

The singing stops as soon as I open my eyes. The interior of the mansion is bare. Cobwebs are the only decorations. A thick layer of dust covers every surface, yet it does nothing to mask the beauty of the elegant foyer.

Laughter sounds from the room to my left. The dining room. I’m not sure how I know, but I’m sure of it. I can’t figure out why I’m still there, yet I allow my feet to carry me through the foyer and into what is indeed the dining room. Indents remain in the plush rug from where the table used to reside.

The light from the moon filters through the large, floor to ceiling window, illuminating a dark spot on the floor. My curiosity has me moving forward before I can stop myself. I crouch down to examine the dark spot and it isn’t long before I come to horrifying realization - it’s blood.

Images flash across my vision. Memories of sort. They don’t make sense and they cause my head to spin. Across the images, the only thing that remains constant is a man with soft blue hair and a radiant smile. The singing, the laughter and the sweet scent - they all belong to him.

Swallowing hard, I look up toward the window. The man is there. He’s leaning casually against the edge of the window sill, watching me with curiosity. His pink top flutters lightly in the breeze coming through the open window. The man is ethereal in his beauty. I’ve never seen anyone like him before.

He runs his hand through his blue hair in an attempt to move it away from his face, but it simply falls back into place. His eyes are soft, but I detect a hint of frustration behind them.

Jimin. That’s his name. I know him, yet I can’t remember where I’ve seen him before. Still, I know I’m safe around him.

I slowly rise. “What are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same question.” He retorts.

“Why is there blood on the floor?” I decide to ignore him, instead voicing my own question.

He lifts a shoulder in an elegant shrug. “There’s a reason you aren’t supposed to be here.”

“What’s going on here, Jimin?”

“You’re full of questions today, aren’t you?” His lips curved up in a small smile. “Come on. Let’s get out of here before there’s trouble.”

“But you never let me come see you.” I whine. “I can’t believe I’ve never noticed your house before. It’s huge!”

His smile grows a bit as he pushes himself off the wall and strides toward me. “Maybe that’s because I didn’t want you to see it.”

I roll my eyes at him. “What is that supposed to mean? It’s not like you can hide an entire mansion from view. That’s not possible.”

“Anything’s possible if you believe hard enough.”

A large gust of wind suddenly blows the front doors open, forcing our attentions. Jimin’s face grows pale and he nervously wets his plush lips. His hand reaches out and grasps onto mine.

“We need to leave.” He says, panic lacing his voice. “Now.”

I don’t know why he suddenly seems so afraid, but I follow him without question as he turns and runs through the door on the opposite side of the room. Jimin quickly maneuvers us through the kitchen and out the back door to the gardens. He glances back once before dashing for the gate.

We’re nearly there when a force crashes into me, causing me to fall to my knees. I gasp at the sudden impact and Jimin is quick to help me back up to my feet. He looks around for whatever it was that hit me, and eventually his eyes land on something I can’t see. I’d always known Jimin was special. He could see and hear things I couldn’t. His touch alone is enough to ease any pain I have.

I realize it’s happening again now. He seeing something I can’t. There’s something, or someone here with us. Before I can blink, he’s grabbed my hand once again and is pulling me along behind him. We’re racing along the edge of the garden wall. Occasionally, Jimin will abruptly change direction, as if avoiding something. I do my best to keep up with him.

Before I realize what’s happening, we’re back inside the mansion. Jimin looks as confused as I am as to how we got there. We’re back where we started. Inside the dining room. We rush around the table, back to the door but again, we’re brought back to where we started. My heart stops as I realize - we aren’t going anywhere.

I clutch onto Jimin’s arm and cower behind him as the truth settles over me. I know what’s here. I’ve faced the demon before. The last time, he nearly killed me. If Jimin hadn’t shown up when he did, I wouldn’t be standing here now.

Jimin is tense, yet he does his best to appear calm. “What do you want, Mortem?”

The demon slowly shimmers into view. The grin on his face is dangerous. Just as I remembered, his eyes are as black as the death that his name speaks of. “Jimin, who’s your guest?”

“She’s just leaving.” Jimin responds stiffly.

Mortem clicks his tongue. “Now, now. Don’t be rude. Allow me to greet the guest in my own home.”

His home? I look to Jimin, confused. I thought he lived here.

“Move out of the way, Mortem.”

The demon shakes his head, grinning. “You know the rules, Jimin. Any mortal that wanders into my home is mine to do with as I please.”

Jimin shakes his head, his voice wavering slightly as he pleads, “No, Mortem. Please. She wasn’t meant to come here. It wasn’t even supposed to be visible to her.”

Mortem chuckles. “It is my house. It knows when its master is hungry. Now be a good little angel and hand over the girl.”

Jimin’s jaw clenches and he holds his head higher. “No.”

The demon scoffs. “There’s a reason they banished you. You refuse to follow orders.” Mortem is quickly growing angry. “You may not be tied to this building, but you are tied to me. You do as I say. I will not tolerate any more disobedience from you.”

Jimin pushes me back as Mortem steps toward us.

“Give me the girl.” Mortem orders.

Jimin simply shakes his head. He turns to me once, smiles lightly, then returns to facing the demon. “Her soul is pure. I will not allow you to take it. Feed on me instead.”

The demon stares at the angel for a moment before bursting into a fit of laughter. “How very noble of you. Perhaps they were wrong too banish you after all. Very well then.”

I bite back a scream as the demon’s eyes turn from black to an angry red.

“I haven’t had the pleasure of devouring an angel’s soul for many centuries. I am going to enjoy this.”

Several emotions cross Jimin’s face in that moment. Yet never once do I see regret. He doesn’t regret offering his life for mine. I don’t know whether to cry or scream in anger, because it’s in that moment that I realize - Jimin is my angel. He is my guardian angel and he’s doing what he’s meant to do. Protect me.

Mortem gives me a small nod. “It is time for you to leave.”

Jimin looks to the sky once before taking a deep breath and closing his eyes. He won’t look at me. I’m not sure I would be able to keep my composure if he had. Instead, I drop my head to stare at my feet. I don’t do anything to stop this. I don’t try to save him. I allow him to sacrifice his life for mine.

A single tear escapes my eye and runs down my cheeks. When I look up, I’m alone. There is no demon. My angel is gone. I’m left alone in the empty dining room. The memories from that night flood my mind and I wish. I wish I would have done something. Anything to save him.

I stand and there’s a gentle breeze that prods my back, urging me forward. Telling me it’s time to leave.

I smile. Maybe, just maybe, the other angels took pity on him. Perhaps he’s still out there, watching me. Protecting me.

The breeze prods my back again and I comply, quickly leaving house.

Once I’m through the gate, stepping off the property, I turn back around. The field stretches out before me, empty and bare. I was so sure there’d been something there just a moment ago, but I suppose my eyes have been playing tricks on me again.

Turning back to head for home once again, I feel a slight breeze caress my cheek and for once, I don’t feel so lonely as I walk the bare streets back to my house.

#park jimin #bts au #bts drabble #jimin au #jimin fanfic #bts jimin #bts jiminie #angel and demon #bangtan sonyeondan #bts #angel jimin #jimin guardian angel au

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littlemessyjessi · 3 years ago

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"Guardians of Stone": Age Thirteen: Chapter Four : Poly Fantasy BTS AU

Poly BTS, Fantasy, Supernatural AU,

Fallen Angels, demons,angels, yandere themes, fantasy themes, supernatural themes.

💜 chapter 4: age 13 💜

======

Anxious fingers continue to fidget with the handle on the cello case.

There were people everywhere.

Her father had a function and Jessabella was meant to perform.

It wasn't a question or a request but rather a direct command.

The place was the picture elegance.

Truthfully, the function itself probably cost more than most people would make in their lifetime.

And her father spent it like it was nothing because to him that's exactly what it was.

Money was no object for him.

He thought it could solve all problems.

"Everyone has a price, Jessabella. Anything and anyone can be bought, for the right amount. You would do well to remember that." he had said to her more times than she could count.

She hated him for that.

For that mentality.

The very idea that he thought he could just buy people off.

After all, it had never worked for her and she was his own blood.

His only child and one that he had given ever material thing anyone could ever desire.

But she would never accept him because he was evil.

She truly believed that.

In her thirteen years of life, she had seen the true dark, cruel twisted side of him and it didn't matter what other thoughts.

She had seen the wicked grin that lay just behind the charming smile he gave to the socialites.

He was dashing and handsome and successful but she knew exactly who he was.

However, she was still a child and there was only so much she could do.

She had tried.

Oh, how she had tried.

She'd ran away more times than either of them could keep up with but she never got far for long because he had people everywhere.

It was only a matter of time before she was deposited right back into his hands.

"You're meant to inherit my legacy, Jessabella. You are the only heir and it's expected of you." he would say every time. "But apparently you have another lesson to learn."

It was always followed by a statement to the public that she was off on another vacation with her 'doting, loving father'.

To the public, he was the widowed single father to the daughter who he spoiled and adored.

No one else saw the absolute hell behind closed doors.

A month later when the bruises had healed and he was convinced he'd broken her spirit enough- only then would he allow her to go out into the world again.

A hand settled on her shoulder, a little too hard to be comfortable.

"Darling."

She nearly gagged as the word leaving his lips.

"It's time for your performance." he said.

Jessabella looked up at her father.

His black hair glinting in the light, the smile on his face sharp- a warning.

She simply nodded tugging her cello out and getting settled.

She had chosen "Numb" by Linkin Park.

She hadn't bothered to run it by him because there would be no lyrics and she knew it wouldn't matter.

It was simply about the music and the idea that his 'beloved daughter' was a prodigy.

In truth, she was but she hated that he referred to her as such.

She just loved music, of any kind.

Music put her feelings into the words that she couldn't seem to get out.

She took a deep breath before she let the song overtake her.

The bow sliding across the strings effectively captivating the audience.

She knew it was.

The song was beautiful and the composition of it was gorgeous.

The lyrics spoke to her personally and even without them… the emotion bled through in the melody.

She sang along in her head as she played, the pads of her fingers calloused from hours against the strings.

'I'm tired of being what you want me to be. Feeling so faithless, lost under the surface. Don't know what you're expecting of me. Put under the pressure of walking in your shoes.'

Tears brewed behind her closed eyes but she would be damned if she let them fall.

She thought of her mother often.

There had definitely been struggles but she hadn't deserved to die.

And Jessabella missed her.

'I've become so numb. I can't feel you there. Become so tired. So much more aware.'

She hated being alone with her father.

She hated it.

At times, she understood her mother's reasons.

Her eyes opened focused in across the street.

The back of Bangtan Mansion displayed before her, guarded by the iron gate.

It was right across from the local country club.

It had been three years since she'd been back.

She was still terrified of her experience but at times, she wondered if whatever happened… might've been better than this.

Her eyes slid down to the crowd to see her father standing there.

He looked proud.

Not of her.

But of the envy in the other's eyes.

She was nothing more than a possession to him.

Something to gloat about and lord over others.

She hated him.

Her eyes closed again, trying to just focus on the music.

'I'm becoming this. All I want to do is be more like me and be less like you.

And I know I may end up failing too but I know you were just like me with someone disappointed in you.

I've become so numb. I can't feel you there. I'm tired of being what you want me to be. I've become so numb.'

She finished her performance to an outstanding ovation and her father all but leapt on the stage, harshly tugging her into his side.

He went on to brag about his 'prodigy' of a child and she barely kept it together.

She gave a few polite bows before she promptly got as far away from the stage as she could.

Normally, he would take this opportunity to cart her around like a prized show pony but he was distracted by some politician.

She saw her chance and she took it, sneaking out of the party and down the street.

Her black heels clacked on the sidewalk, the matching black dress blowing in the wind a bit.

She already missed her cargos and combat boots.

Her hair had been pinned into submission and her face painted to look much older than the young teenager that she was.

She was so lost in her thoughts that she almost ran into something as it swung out in front of her.

Her eyes narrowed at the iron slightly swaying in front of her feet.

Eyes dragging up to see that it was in fact a gate and she was standing right outside of Bangtan Manor.

Apparently, it had an entrance in the back that she'd never noticed.

Though truthfully, it was a bit overgrown.

She gnawed on her lip for a moment, deciding if she should go in or not.

"Last time you nearly got yourself killed." she said to herself. "But then again, here lately, maybe…"

She shook her head of the dark thoughts… but apparently not enough to clear them because soon enough she was pushing through the vines and stepping onto the property again.

It was quiet.

The kind of quiet associated with horror movies before the main character got ripped to shreds.

Even with that knowledge… she pressed on.

She slid her heels off, the grass tickling her bare feet but soothing the soreness.

She sighed.

There were no voices.

She was sure that they were angry with her, after all, what would she expect after the last encounter.

She'd nearly been killed.

Though, at times when she lay awake at night, she wondered if that had been intentional.

She had many conversations with Jimin before.

That in and of itself sounded insane, she knew.

He was a statue after all but she had long since accepted that she wasn't normal.

And he had always been kind to her before.

She ventured further into the property where she knew a small pond sat.

It was still a bit overgrown but there were flowers blossom in varying shades of pink and the little wooden bench was still in tact.

She took a seat as she looked up at the statue closest to her.

If anyone had been blessed by Aphrodite, it was that man.

He was truly beautiful in every way.

"Hello, Seokjinnie." she said.

She received no answer but she didn't really expect one to be honest.

It would be a miracle if she managed to leave there alive today and somehow… she had made her peace with that.

"Your flowers are looking lovely." she commented. "I see that the azaleas are a new addition."

The statue remained looking over the water managing to look both pensieve and serene at the same time.

"I'm sorry I haven't been back, Seokjinnie." she said. "I have missed you. But with what happened last time, I've been afraid. I- I thought I was going to die. I thought Jimin was going to kill me. But now, even if that is what happens, I'm no so afraid of it anymore."

The water of the pond turned vicious, churning in a way that a pond never would.

Jessabella grew afraid again but moments later the pond settled into a gentle ebb and flow.

Music drifted around them as it floated out of the manor.

The tinkling of piano keys filled the air.

"I know this song." she smiled. "My mother used to play it for me. It's 'Jasmine Flower'."

Warmth blossomed in her heart that the good memories of her mother and before she knew it she was singing.

"What a beautiful jasmine flower! What a beautiful jasmine flower! Buds and blooms are here and there, pure and fragrant all do declare. Let me gather some with tender care, sweetness for all to share. Jasmine fair, oh jasmine fair." she said, breaking into a fit of giggles as she leapt to her feet and spun in circles around in the grass.

She fell backwards, encased by the flowers.

She hadn't felt that light or joyous in a long while.

"Thank you, Yoongi." she whispered, eyes prickling with tears. "It was as if my mother was here with me again."

She expected nothing in return but when the deep, soft voice invaded her mind with a comforting, "You're welcome, flower." … she wept.

All of her emotions, all the trauma and the bullshit bubbled ot the surface and she cried in the flowers.

Her wretched father, the loss of her mother, the constant war she was in, the expectations, the suicidal thoughts, everything.

The damn broke and she just laid there.

Her tears falling into the warm of earth of spring.

In that moment, she was both ready to die and yet, wanting nothing more than to live.

On the one hand, she wanted her life as a her father's daughter to end.

She wanted that girl to die.

But here, in the garden with the flowers where no one expected her to be anyone but herself… she wanted to live.

She wanted so badly to live there forever.

"You could."

The fuzzy voice invaded her mind again and she tensed a bit at the sweeter tone.

"Jimin?" she spoke.

"I never meant to hurt you." his voice said, warmth bleeding in around the edges. "I got a little jealous that you had brought someone else and then you were leaving. I thought you would never come back and-"

There was a rush of many voices all at once again, talking too fast and too low in her mind for her to be able to sort them out or what they were saying.

But it didn't matter.

She thought she would be terrified but it brought her comfort to have them there again.

She laid back in the grass again, eyes closing.

There arguing almost served as quiet background noise.

She had made up her mind.

Whatever happened, happened.

But in that moment, she was going to enjoy the blissful peace of the garden.

No one was expecting anything of her.

She was just a girl laying in the flowers.

=====

Hello loves and tahnk you for checking out my work! If you'd like to see more Kpop content, just check out the navi link in my bio and click on Masterlist 2.0! I hope you're doing well and I would love to know your thoughts!

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Please enjoy purple Seokjinnie for healing!

======

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softjeon · 5 years ago

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Featherlight | Masterlist

— GENRE; fluff, light angst — PAIRING; namjoon x jimin — SIDE-PAIRING; jungkook x yoongi — AU; guardian angel!jimin, human!namjoon, — DISCLAIMER; mentioning of nightmares, anxiety, nsfw content — written with @cassiavioletblue

SUMMARY; Humans could hear their guardians, feel their voice inside of them like warm chocolate on a cold winter day. Usually it was enough for angels to whisper to their human, make them consider a different option or another approach. And then there were people who were effectively ignoring their inner voices and apparently Namjoon was just really adamant on not taking care of himself and getting himself into danger constantly.

— CHAPTERS; 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / Final

— GIFSET-TRAILER;

#jimin #namjoon #minjoon #minjoonrecs #bts #bangtan #guardian angel au #/masterlist #/mywriting #/mine

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chimcess · 1 year ago

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→ Chapter Six: Beside Him Pairing: Jimin x Reader Other tags: Werewolf!Jimin, Witch!Reader, Shifter!Reader, Shifter!Jimin, A/B/O Dynamics, Alpha!Jimin Genre: Supernatural!AU, Werewolf!AU, Angst, Mutual Pining, Fluff, Smut, Word Count: 17.7k+ Synopsis: Within the four realms of Lustra lay the Bangtan forest home to the Foxglove pack of the north and known as the “land of magic.” It is also home to the Bridd, a powerful witch from a cursed bloodline who is one of the sacred guardians of the forest. Y/N is the newest Bridd, a young girl who was given her position too early. Now a woman, Y/N is revered amongst the wolves as the most powerful witch they have ever known, but hiding under the surface is a woman who has to battle between her duty and her heart. Warnings: Injured characters, death, PTSD, flashbacks, self-hatred, guilt, ANGST, hurt/comfort, strong language, scars, sexism, virginity mentioned, sex mentioned, kissing, groping, arguments, mood swings, emotional outbursts, mentioning of su*c*dial thoughts (in passing and not seriously), toxic views on love, new characters introduced, hospital scene, near death experiences leave people messed up, conflicting feelings, I love writing these characters so much, Callisto is my sweet baby angel, anything else might spoil, let me know if I missed something A/N: Even if there’s not too many people interested in it, this fic is my comfort piece since I know everyone so well. I love writing for this world, and I never want it to end (but it will one day, sadly). Sigh, at least we still have plenty of adventures to go on first.

prev. || masterlist || next

I pried my eyes open, feeling the weight of exhaustion settling into my bones. Every inch of me felt like it was being crushed under an invisible burden. As I took in my surroundings, it became clear that I was in some kind of medical ward. The room was crowded with the injured, and I let out a weary sigh of relief.

I was still alive. I had made it through.

The air was thick with groans of pain, the kind that pierce through your soul, but I couldn’t pinpoint their source. Most of the others were either silent or murmuring softly to their loved ones. I opened my eyes again and saw that there was no one at my bedside.

With a pained groan, I pushed myself up, feeling every joint protest and crack with each movement. My head still throbbed, and I could barely see through the haze of discomfort. I scanned the room but saw no familiar faces. The absence of loved ones could mean they were busy elsewhere, not that something far worse had happened.

I twisted and stretched, trying to ease the knots in my muscles. The headache was relentless but started to fade, becoming a dull roar instead of a piercing shriek. A woman beside me stirred awake. Her body was marred by burns, evidence of her narrow escape from a fire while fleeing with her children.

“You’ve been out for two days,” she said, her voice raspy, as if it had been dragged over rough gravel.

“What happened?” My throat felt like sandpaper, and I yearned for a sip of water. “I returned after the elves had gone,” I rubbed my eyes and stretched my arms again. “What’s your name?”

“Do-yun,” she managed a strained smile. “But you’ve done more than enough already, Bridd.”

Guilt gnawed at me as I looked at her burned, peeling skin. She was wrong; I hadn’t done nearly enough. She couldn’t know that I’d been too cowardly to act when I should have. My self-loathing grew like a dark, creeping vine. If I had only been braver, had only told Jimin what was bothering me…

“Bridd?” Do-yun’s voice cut through my dark thoughts, laced with concern.

I forced a weak smile and looked away, unable to meet her eyes. “Sorry, I was lost in thought.”

She nodded, understanding. Many in the village would have felt the same way I did—wounded by their own burdens. Her scars were a stark reminder of my failures, and I felt a surge of nausea. Their nightmares were mine to bear. Do-yun’s tears, her cries echoing in the small room, were a testament to my failures.

“The elves haven’t returned,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. “The Elders say they’ve moved to Northorn and plan to come back south. Alpha Jimin thinks they’re trying to weaken our defenses before they invade the north, and Alpha Taehyung agrees.”

A sliver of relief cut through the fog of my despair. Jimin was well enough to be involved in strategy meetings. That was a good sign. Do-yun seemed pleased with my reaction, and I feared she’d caught me. She gave a sly wink but said nothing more.

“That makes sense,” I said, nodding.

Testing my strength, I tried to stand. I smiled at the small victory. My body was recovering faster than I’d anticipated. I attributed it to the fact that I was regaining the magic I’d lost. I looked down at Do-yun again, my frown deepening.

“Are you sure I can’t help you?” I asked.

She shook her head. “Surviving is an honor. I’ll wear these scars with pride.”

I thought of my own scars and felt my frown deepen. I had never seen them as anything but reminders of pain. My thoughts turned to Shiloh, and I almost collapsed. I’d never had the chance to say goodbye. I pushed the tears away, promising myself to grieve later.

“Have you seen Jimin recently?” I asked, forcing my voice to stay steady.

Do-yun’s smile was one-sided, the burn on her face making it appear more like a grimace. I felt a surge of anger at whoever had done this to her. I wanted to tear apart the elf responsible.

“He’s here most of the time,” she said. “Taehyung called him this morning for an important meeting. He should be back soon.”

“Thank you,” I said, studying her again. “And how are your children?”

“They’re with their father, trying to salvage what’s left of our home,” Do-yun’s smile widened, though it was tight and painful. “Tae-moo says there’s hardly anything left. Your friends have been talking to witches in Moland and Syrena for help, but Elder Bo has been making things difficult.”

I huffed in frustration. Now was not the time for pride. Those witches would be a lifeline for the village. Do-yun’s discontent was palpable. Taehyung’s word would outweigh Bo’s, but I knew Jimin would have to be forceful to make it happen.

“She’s lost her daughter, so I try to be understanding,” Do-yun said, frowning. “But I can’t ignore how foolish it is to reject help.”

“And Bo?” I asked. “Does she not approve of me being here?”

Do-yun shook her head. “We’re supposed to act as though nothing was said, but she was displeased to hear about you and Jimin’s courtship.”

So, the village knew about our relationship. I sat down on my cot, weary. I doubted Jimin would be pleased with the situation, and I needed to be cautious with whom I spoke. I wasn’t sure how people reacted to our bond or how much faith they placed in it.

“Most of us don’t understand why she’s so angry,” Do-yun said with a grin. “We’re all grateful for your help, despite her stubbornness.”

I nodded, resolved to find anyone else still in the ward. I asked about Thelma and Yoongi, but she hadn’t seen them. I decided to search for my friends first, navigating through the sea of bodies.

“See you soon, Oxur Park,” I said with a weak smile and a wave.

The ward was filled with the badly injured, missing limbs, or burned beyond recognition. Some children were blind from spells, others paralyzed and being treated by the Quietus. The sight was overwhelming, and I had to force myself to look away from the cots strewn around me.

“I’m glad you’re awake,” said a voice from behind me.

I turned slowly, and there was Cadoc, standing before me. The dark shadow that used to cling to him had dissipated, replaced by a swirling, gentle white mist. The transformation was striking—where once he had been a figure of grim determination, now he was vibrant and alive, his skin glowing warmly in the sunlight, no longer the ghostly marble it had been. His eyes, a brilliant sapphire blue, seemed almost to pulse with life. His midnight hair, still long and wild, danced with the breeze that seemed to weave around him. He gave me a soft, knowing smile.

“Cadoc,” I said, trying to match his warmth but finding it difficult. “I’m glad to see you.”

He approached with cautious steps, his gaze roaming over my body with a tenderness that felt like a cool autumn breeze. His touch was feather-light, as if he was afraid to impose. I appreciated the carefulness, suddenly aware of the uncertainty about my condition. I could be more hurt than I realized. Maybe I wasn’t as free as I thought.

“You seem fine,” he said, his voice resonating with that peculiar echo, unchanged. “I’d advise against using any magic unless absolutely necessary.”

I nodded, accepting his advice.

“Thank you again,” I managed a small smile. “I’m grateful for your help out there.”

He gave a nod. “You saved my life. I thought it only right to return the favor.”

I nodded back and began to turn away, but he called after me.

“Before you go,” he said, and I turned back. “Sam wants to see you. I think she’s quite fond of you.”

This time, a genuine smile broke through my weariness. “I’ll visit her after I’ve checked on my loved ones.”

Cadoc chuckled softly. “Good luck. My sister isn’t known for her patience. And my condolences for your loss.”

I looked down at the grass beneath my feet. Suddenly, the verdant green shifted to memories of fire and blackened earth. Screams pierced through the haze, and shadows of fleeing figures danced across the scorched ground. My hands felt cold and heavy, and when I blinked, a fleeting face appeared before vanishing into the void. Gasping for breath, I placed a hand over my chest to steady myself.

Wendy would be beside herself. I needed to get to them quickly. We had to be together right now. Oh God, Cordelia.

“Was it only the woman?” I asked, my voice trembling as I hoped he understood what I meant.

“She was the only fatality,” Cadoc replied. “Your friend is blind, another is badly injured and still receiving care, and one has severe burns on her leg.”

“Who’s here?” I demanded, my gaze snapping up. I needed to see them before I left.

“Tae-jin, I believe,” he said.

My eyes closed involuntarily. I had to see Seokjin, make sure he was alright. His mother must be frantic by now. Torn between visiting Tae-jin and comforting his family, my body moved on its own toward the tent. A hand on my arm halted me.

Cadoc was pressed close, his icy presence forming a chill around me. I fought the shiver that threatened to rise. His lips brushed my ear as he whispered, his body too near, and in an instant, he vanished from view.

“They’re here,” he said.

I turned my head, straining to catch his words.

“There’s someone in this village working with the elves,” he continued. “I’ll explain later.”

I nodded, understanding that this conversation wasn’t suited for the current setting. Pulling away from his cold embrace, I tried to make my pause look natural, though my heart was heavy with the devastation around me. The chill from his touch lingered.

“Meet me in the meadow tonight,” he urged.

I nodded once. Satisfied, the cold that had surrounded me receded, and I began walking again. Whatever the Quietus had to say would have to wait until I ensured everyone was safe. At least well enough to live.

I found Tae-jin a short while later, with the help of anyone able to guide me to his cot. He lay there, still unconscious, a large gash marring his face, red and raised. Relief washed over me as I noticed his steady breathing. He would wake up, and I hoped he’d be alright, though the scars from that night would haunt us all forever. Cordelia’s face flashed in my mind, and I shivered. I hoped this was our only loss—the witches had to handle no more. I studied him for a few moments longer before leaving the medical tent. My family needed me now, and I had to trust that Tae-jin was in good hands.

Stepping into the daylight, I was struck by the desolation. The village lay in ruins, every building destroyed. Many villagers would be unable to repair their homes, too injured themselves. Choking back tears, I reminded myself of my duty. I could crumble later; right now, my family needed me to be strong.

As I walked past a small group of villagers, their eyes followed me with a mix of curiosity and sorrow. I didn’t recognize any of them, but I assumed they knew who I was. I had never learned the names of the villagers outside those I had helped through the change. The women looked older, their bodies fuller, likely beyond the shift. Ignoring them, I pressed on, having no time for local gossip.

“They’re in the Park house,” one woman called out. I glanced back at them, seeing only grief in their eyes. I didn’t know who they had lost, but I hoped they would find a way to heal. “It’s the only house still standing down the main road to your right. Be careful; there’s a lot of debris.”

I nodded, “Thank you.”

“No,” another woman cried, her face reddened and sunburnt. “Thank you. Cadoc told us what you did. We are forever in your debt.”

I offered a sad smile before continuing on. The praise felt hollow, a poor substitute for the weight of my guilt. None of this should have happened. I should have done more. I winced at the thought, halting momentarily to regain my composure. Not now. Later.

The house was easy to spot. Amidst the charred remains and rubble of the other homes, the Park residence stood out like a beacon of hope, albeit a battered one. The yard was a wasteland of ashes, the walls were singed and weak, and a gaping hole revealed the interior, exposing its wounds to the outside world. Through the ragged edges, I could see Seokjin and Wendy, engaged in a muted conversation, their voices lost to the distance.

I chose to approach through the front door, grimacing at the blackened wood. It was clear that this house had been the last to surrender to the flames. I knocked and waited, the silence inside stretching like a taut wire. I braced myself for the inevitable flood of hugs, tears, and the overwhelming burden of keeping it all together. I was expected to be the rock, the anchor, the one who would soothe the storm inside these walls.

Callisto answered. Her face, drawn and weary, was framed by chocolate hair haphazardly pinned back. Despite her exhaustion, her blue eyes sparkled with a glimmer of recognition and relief. Without warning, she threw her arms around me, her embrace fierce and desperate.

“Oh, thank Goddess,” she cried, her voice breaking with raw emotion. “My brother will be so happy to see you. We were so worried.”

I hesitated but returned the hug as best I could. She was so small and fragile, her thin frame making me uncomfortable to hold her too tightly. I imagined her bones were as delicate as her presence. She pulled away quickly, taking my hand as if we were old friends reunited after years apart. Her exuberance was almost overwhelming, and I felt a pang of embarrassment at the intensity of her joy.

“Bridd,” Wendy’s voice, wild and frantic, called out as she spotted me.

I rushed to her. The sea witch crumbled into my arms, her sobs shaking her entire body. Her once-flowing blonde hair had been cut short, dirty strands clinging to her shoulders. She was as frail and distraught as I felt, her grip on me frantic and all-consuming. I wasn’t sure if I should tell her that I’d been the one to find Cordelia. The image of Cordelia’s face—her green eyes vacant and distant—flashed through my mind, punctuated by memories of fiery red. Her hair had been a chaotic mess, dirt and flame mingling in a grotesque spectacle. I shuddered and held Wendy tighter, praying she hadn’t seen her mentor in such a state.

“She-she-” Wendy gasped, her voice a piercing cry of anguish.

“I know,” I croaked, running my fingers through her hair, trying to soothe her. “I know, Wendy Byrd.”

I glanced over her shoulder and saw the rest of the witches huddled around a small fireplace. They all turned to look at us, except Yoongi. His gaze was unfocused, and I recalled Cadoc mentioning he was still blinded. I gently whispered to Wendy, easing her grip so I could move toward the others. Seokjin stood nearby and took her from me with ease, patting my head with a large hand before drawing Wendy into a comforting embrace. She was falling apart before my eyes, and I knew I wouldn’t be able to offer her much solace. I felt I might crumble myself.

I went to Hoji next. Her husband was ill in the medical tent, and she looked frazzled. Seokjin would be too absorbed in mourning Cordelia to worry about his father, especially since we all knew it was only a matter of time before he woke up. Cordelia, however, would never return. I shuddered, glancing down at my shirt, which was filthy and soot-streaked. I was still essentially naked, with no undergarments or pants to speak of.

Heji reached out to me from beside her sister, her smile sad and resigned. They had always been mirror images, their faces almost indistinguishable, but now they seemed to blend into one mournful entity. They were a single presence of sorrow, lacking the usual banter and gentle teasing. At this moment, they were one soul mourning a shared loss.

Yoona was by her son’s side and pointed me toward Thelma. I looked at Yoongi, who was visibly hurt and despondent. His eyes, usually so expressive, now seemed distant. I nodded to Yoona and moved toward Thelma. Enver was missing from the group, and Thelma whispered that he was asleep.

“Thank you,” Thelma whispered, her voice fierce but barely audible. “You kept him away from the worst of it.”

I nodded, my silence a testament to my own struggle. Thelma wasn’t one for physical comfort, but I knew her heart was heavy. Cordelia had been a dear friend, and Thelma had been unable to help her. I’d talk to her later, but for now, I let her grieve in her own way.

I thought of Shiloh and felt a wave of self-reproach for not having a proper goodbye. Her absence left a gaping hole in my heart, a wound that would never fully heal. I’d have to face Jimin, confessing the ruin I’d brought upon his village. I’d be branded a traitor, perhaps. Taehyung might cast me aside, but I hoped he’d understand. Sol would be relieved her mate was safe, and things might eventually mend between us. Jimin adored me, but would he still look at me the same way?

“Y/N?” Yoongi’s hesitant voice broke through my thoughts.

I was at his side instantly. He looked so young and vulnerable. I took his hand, holding it tightly.

“I’m here, Yoon.”

He reached out with his other hand, and I took it, finding comfort in his touch. Yoongi had never been one to seek physical affection, and I frowned at the oddity of the moment. I squeezed his hands, offering what solace I could.

“Are you alright?” Yoona asked, her hand gently squeezing my shoulder. “We were worried, but Cadoc said you’d be fine with rest.”

I nodded, speaking softly for Yoongi’s benefit. “I’m fine,” I whispered. “Physically, at least. I’m not sure about everything else.”

Yoongi’s grip tightened, his fear palpable.

“How are you feeling, Yoon?” I asked.

He shook his head, his voice barely a whisper. “I’m scared.”

I inched closer, our knees touching as we both knelt on the floor. I took one of my hands back and smoothed his bedhead, caressing his cheek. He reminded me of a small boy frightened by the unknown. Tears slipped down my face, and I surrendered to the sorrow. Yoongi would always be there to catch my tears.

“Me too,” I admitted softly, my voice barely audible.

“Thelma told us about your visions,” Hoji said, her voice tinged with sympathy. “We’re all sorry you had to face this alone.”

I shook my head, guilt gnawing at me. “I saw nothing. I knew something bad was happening, but I was blind and stupid. I should have spoken up. I should have—”

“We are all responsible,” Thelma interrupted, her voice firm. “I take full responsibility for your silence. It was my choice, based on my own biases. I should have known better.”

“And we all knew you were lying about Aldara’s book,” Yoona added. “We knew you were hiding something. If we’re assigning blame, then you can blame us all.”

“But Cordelia—” I choked out, my voice breaking.

“It’s not your fault,” Wendy cried, her voice small and frail. “Those things—” she spat, “—killed her. Not you.”

I turned to her, knowing I was failing to keep my emotions in check. The heartache was overwhelming, closing in on me. I’d have to confess to Jimin, face the devastation I’d caused, and brace for his reaction. I feared he wouldn’t see me the same way again. Taehyung’s understanding would be a comfort, but the thought of Jimin’s disappointment was unbearable.

“The elves are coming,” Hoji said, her voice frail and cracked, like a record on its last spin. “They would’ve come regardless of what you told these people. It wasn’t like you were on good terms with them. Hell, those wolves would’ve had their hands full.”

I tried to let her words sink in, to dull the edge of my guilt, but it was no use. The pity party was wearing thin. I took a deep breath, readying myself for the next step. I needed to find Jimin, who was with Taehyung at the palace.

“I’m going to check on the others,” I said, my voice more resolute than I felt. “I came straight here, and I’m sure Jimin will be worried if he sees me missing.”

Thelma nodded, her eyes heavy with worry. “Will you come back?”

“I’ll try to be back tonight,” I promised. “If not, then first thing tomorrow morning.”

“And we will talk,” Jin said, his voice steady but his eyes heavy with sorrow.

I owed Jin the biggest apology. I’d let my own biases cloud my judgment, just like Thelma. If I’d been more forthright with everyone, maybe I could’ve devised a better plan. Maybe Cordelia would still be alive, a voice in my head hissed. I swallowed hard and nodded at Jin.

“Be safe, Birdie,” Yoongi whispered, and the old nickname hit me like a ton of bricks. I sucked in a sharp breath, feeling the sting of nostalgia and regret.

It had been years since he’d called me that. My lip trembled, and I hugged him tightly. If I had done more, maybe he’d see me crying into his shoulder. His fingers gently toyed with the tattered cotton at my neck, and I crumbled a little more as he rested his head against my shoulder.

“You should change before you leave,” Callisto’s bell-like voice startled me. “Come on. Our socrus might have something that’ll fit you, but if not, I’m sure Ji-Hyun won’t mind parting with something of his.”

As we moved out of the living area, my mood sank further at the sight of the wrecked house. It was barely standing, and I longed to start fixing it. Enver would have a field day with that, but it would have to wait. I’d tackle it when I came back later.

“The water’s out,” Callisto said as we approached the back, “but we’re close to the stream. We can wash up there and come back to get dressed.”

I admired her tenacity and the faint light still burning in her eyes. It was impossible to know if I’d ever be as strong as her. She would see her reflection and only want to eradicate the pests that had caused this devastation. She wouldn’t be haunted by the smell of smoke clinging to her clothes. I’d never ask, but if she did, I was sure it would show in her eyes when she looked distant.

“Pink or blue?” she asked, lifting two pieces of fabric.

I shook my head, “Whichever your mother likes less.”

“Blue, then,” she said with a mischievous smile. “Good thing it’s my levir’s favorite.”

I didn’t speak Latin fluently, but I knew the word for brother well enough. Hearing it often in the village had me cracking a smile. Leave it to Callisto to think about making me presentable for my mate. Seeing my reaction, Callisto’s smile broadened.

“I’ll grab a set of Ji-Hyun’s clothes just in case. Jimin will hate it, but he’d hate you wandering around in rags even more.”

She returned quickly, a knitted bag slung over her shoulder and a bottle in her hand. The floral scent wafted from it, and I smiled softly. Her efforts to cheer me up, even through something as mundane as hygiene, were touching. I found myself liking her more than I’d expected.

We left through the back, and I was disheartened by the state of their yard. It was a wasteland, the remnants of happier times gone. Callisto took my hand, guiding me towards the rushing water.

“Where’s Jimin’s mom?” I asked.

Callisto shrugged. “She left this morning to help some friends gather supplies for the rebuild. But knowing her, she’s been all over the place today. You’ll like her a lot.”

I couldn’t tell if she was sincere or just trying to convince me. Jimin had been confident in his family’s support of our relationship, and Callisto’s warmth was reassuring. I had no doubt Ji-Hyun would be equally kind, but a mother’s expectations could be heavy. I wasn’t sure I’d measure up.

“Do you think she’ll like me?” I asked, my voice barely a whisper.

Callisto laughed, a sound that seemed to chase away some of the shadows. “Oh, trust me, she already does. The way Jimin speaks of you is more than enough for her. So, don’t worry about it.”

Her simple outlook was refreshing, and I envied her for it. I wanted nothing more than to escape my own tumultuous thoughts, to drown out the images of fire, Cordelia’s disfigured face, and Aldara’s arm under the moonlight. I longed for a reprieve, even just for a moment. I wished I could live in Callisto’s mind for a while, to experience her strength and clarity.

“Are you okay?” Callisto asked, her voice gentle.

I hadn’t realized I’d been zoning out. “No, but that’s just how things are sometimes.”

She tilted her head. “Not if you don’t want them to be.”

I laughed without much humor. “It’s never that simple for everyone, Callisto. I’m glad you seem to be an exception, though. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone.”

She hadn’t lost those she held dear. The elves had left the humans alone, so her family was safe, and she didn’t seem to mourn any lost friends. Faulting her for not grieving my losses would be unfair.

We walked in silence, Callisto’s hand still tightly clasped around mine. For once, her touch didn’t bother me; it was a comforting presence. When the stream finally came into view, we began to undress at the bank.

“Oh,” Callisto choked out.

I looked around, searching for the source of her distress, but we were alone. I glanced down at my arms, and a wave of despair washed over me. They were burned and scarred, the skin tight and marred with splotches. The iron had done more damage than I’d realized. My palms were the worst, and I followed the scarred skin until it disappeared from view.

I traced a finger down my chest, feeling the ridges of scar tissue until I reached a large, raised gash on my abdomen. Hunching over, I whimpered at the sight. The jagged edges of the wound felt like rough stones under my touch. I traced them repeatedly until Callisto’s voice broke through.

“I’m sorry for saying anything,” she said quickly, her gaze fixed on the water. “It was rude.”

“It’s fine,” I replied, my voice harsher than I intended. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to soften my tone. “I’ll wear them with pride.”

The lie seemed to do the trick, soothing her unease. Callisto stepped into the water, motioning for me to join her. The water, warmer than I had anticipated, wrapped around me like a comforting embrace. I relished the sensation against my skin, using my hands to scrub away the grime that clung stubbornly. I had to bite my lip to stifle the grimace that threatened to escape as the friction burned my damaged skin. I didn’t want the human girl worrying over me. We used the flowery wash, and I was relieved by how refreshed I felt, the dirt and grime of the day dissolving away.

The dress fit me a bit loosely, but it was manageable. I wasn’t thrilled about donning another man’s clothes, even if they were Jimin’s brother’s. It somehow made it worse. Callisto’s enthusiasm to help me lace up the back was palpable, her worry evident as she adjusted the fabric to hang properly. The flowy material fell gracefully to my ankles, but the top clung more tightly than I would have preferred. Once I was dressed, I helped Callisto into her own muted-green gown before we headed back to the house.

“I’ll wash the shirt,” she offered.

I shook my head. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll replace it later.”

Callisto nodded, took my hand again, and fell silent. The quiet of the forest struck me. There were no birds chirping, no frogs croaking, no insects buzzing. The usual rustle of deer hooves or the scurrying of a rabbit in the underbrush was absent. The forest was as silent as we were, and the stillness felt ominous. Bangtan had always been alive with sound; now, it was as if the life had been drained away.

The house came into view again, and I tensed. I wasn’t ready to face my friends, and my urgency to see Jimin grew. I needed to explain myself before anyone else had the chance to tell him what was going on. I stopped, realization dawning on me that Callisto had overheard my conversation with the others and knew more than I had assumed. She paused too, her brows lifting in silent question.

“Does Jimin know?” I demanded, pulling my hand from hers.

“What?”

“Does Jimin know about—” I struggled for the right words. How do you explain hearing the wind speak without sounding insane? “Does he know about me?”

Callisto’s eyes softened. She reached out, taking my hand back and rubbing my knuckles. I didn’t deserve her kindness, but I accepted it, selfishly. Her tender gaze was so understanding, so kind, that for a moment I almost believed I could be forgiven. Her silence, however, spoke volumes. I pressed on.

“Yes,” she said gently. “Jimin knows. The whole family does. Don’t take Hyun’s words to heart; he’s not known for his sensitivity. I’ll keep him in check.”

My world seemed to tilt, the weight of the reality crashing down. I wanted to be the one to tell Jimin, to be honest without being exposed first. Now, that chance was gone. Callisto’s warm hand was a small comfort, but it didn’t change anything. Even if Jimin loved me, even if he had forgiven me, it did nothing to alleviate the crushing guilt I felt. Part of me wished they had turned me away and blamed me for their troubles—it would have been easier to understand. Ji-Hyun’s disdain for me made sense.

“Cali!”

The moment was shattered as Callisto pulled away from me, practically running toward the source of the voice. I looked up to see who had captured her attention. The brunette flung herself into the arms of a towering man. His massive muscles bulged, and his skin was a deep bronze, contrasting sharply with his light hair. His hair was an unusual mix of taupe, gray, and white, cropped short and slicked back. He smiled down at Callisto, and the sight stopped me dead in my tracks. His smile was wide, his teeth perfectly straight, with a dimple appearing on his left cheek. His eyes twinkled with an intensity that made me want to flee toward the palace. This was Jimin’s younger brother, who looked everything and nothing like him.

Noticing me, the wolf’s attention snapped to me instantly. Callisto, following his gaze, flashed me a blinding smile. Her eyes, now a striking hazel, were even more captivating than before. The man’s curiosity about me was evident, but he didn’t immediately question my presence.

“Bridd?” he called, his voice deep and rougher than Jimin’s. His eyes were a light greenish-brown that shone prettily in the sun. “What are you doing here?”

I gathered that he hadn’t been frequenting the medical ward recently. From Callisto’s expression, she was clearly irritated by his manner. It dawned on me that Jimin’s brother had always known about us, even before we had gotten together, but he was accustomed to keeping it private. Out here, it was easier to overhear. I felt a surge of gratitude for the small gesture, even if it seemed unnecessary now. Jimin had evidently made our relationship public.

“I needed to see everyone before heading to the palace,” I replied. “You must be Ji-Hyun, then?”

He nodded, a smile on his face that seemed forced. His gaze lingered on me, and I felt self-conscious. I had yet to see myself in a mirror, but the glance I’d given myself earlier had been revealing enough. Ji-Hyun’s eyes stayed on my hands a moment too long, and I quickly folded them behind my back. Callisto smacked him on the chest and hissed at him to stop. I couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Jimin spoke of you often,” I continued.

Ji-Hyun looked away, blushing slightly. “I’ve heard plenty about you too.”

“You should go,” Callisto said, giving her mate a look. “My brother will be thrilled to see you up and about.”

Ji-Hyun laughed, and a wave of embarrassment washed over me. Biting my lip, I nodded and started walking again. Callisto smacked Ji-Hyun and chided him for being “such a boy.” I laughed softly and met Ji-Hyun’s exaggerated pout with a grin.

“I swear,” Callisto groaned. “You’re always so thoughtless.”

Ji-Hyun laughed. “Don’t start with the Namjoon insults.”

She rolled her eyes. “If you were Namjoon, I’d be far more tempted to punch you in the face. Broken hand or not.”

As they faded into the distance, I watched them with a bittersweet smile. They were an odd pair—deeply in love yet playfully childish. At least they had each other, and their humor was a small beacon of hope amidst the bleakness. I hoped their mother was as joyful as they were, but I didn’t hold out much hope.

A few villagers were beginning to clear debris and rebuild. I spotted Namjoon among the workers and kept walking. I had little to say to him at the moment, and he was busy. Up ahead, Jungkook was tossing things out. It was unusual to see the omega outside the palace walls, even more so away from Sol. With Taehyung home, Jungkook no longer needed to shadow and protect Sol.

I wondered about Hoseok and Hyuna. I trusted Shiloh to heal him, but I had heard nothing since I woke. The witches would likely be unaware of any deaths in our group. My conversation with Da-yun had eased my mind slightly; she would have mentioned Hoseok’s death if it had occurred.

I climbed the hill to the palace carefully. I would have liked to use magic, but I respected Cadoc’s wishes—no magic unless absolutely necessary. It was for the best. The elves' conversation in the forest lingered in my mind, and I quickened my pace. If their plans were already in motion, I needed to gather as much information as possible to warn the pack. Whatever the elves were plotting, I suspected this was just a taste of their power, and I would need all my strength to fight back. Magic would be off-limits for now.

Halfway up, a young woman noticed me and came to my aid, her gray and brown fur shimmering in the sunlight. She offered her back, and the remainder of the climb, which would have taken me fifteen minutes, was reduced to three. She was enormous.

She let me down before heading back down the hill. I felt a pang of guilt for taking her away from her duties, but she seemed unbothered. I had more pressing concerns.

A few guards watched the palace entrance, one of whom gave me a cursory glance before recognizing me. I entered without trouble, the heavy doors thudding behind me.

The air still carried the scent of soot, and I was thrust into a whirlwind of activity. The palace, once serene, was now a flurry of people scrubbing walls, cleaning fabrics, and shuffling documents. The sight filled me with a sense of disgust. These people should be focusing on their homes, not polishing stone floors.

“Can I help you?” a gentle voice called out to me.

She was a big woman, bigger than me by a solid three heads, and built like a grizzly. Her muscles rippled under her skin, and her short, silky black hair had a glossy sheen to it. When she smiled, it was a small, guarded curve of the lips, and the lines and wrinkles etched into her face hinted at a life well-lived but marked by struggle. It was clear she’d survived the chaos that had claimed many of the village's elderly.

"I’m looking for Alpha Jimin," I said.

The woman nodded, her face a mask of stoicism. A sense of foreboding gnawed at me; I had the feeling I wouldn't be seeing him anytime soon. But before she could lead me away, I introduced myself, giving my title. The maid flinched, her fear so raw it hit me like a physical blow. I was taken aback. What had they done to this woman?

"I’m so sorry," she said quickly, her eyes wide with alarm. "I didn’t know."

I waved off her worries. "There’s no need for that," I said, trying to soothe her. Her shoulders relaxed slightly, and I clenched my teeth. This was a conversation I’d need to have with Taehyung. No one should be made to fear me. "Please, I need to see him."

"Of course, Uxor Park," she said, her voice steady but laced with an odd formality.

"Excuse me?" I said, my eyebrows arching in confusion.

Her face flushed, and she tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear. As we climbed the grand staircase, she spoke in hushed tones. "I forgot you've been recovering from the battle. Alpha Jimin has announced your bond, and wedding arrangements are already underway, Uxor Park."

"I’m not his wife," I said, frowning. "Stop calling me that. What’s your name?"

"Koda, daughter of Ammon," she replied.

I mulled it over. "Well, Koda, I have a name and I’d prefer to be called by it."

Koda's eyes widened in scandalized surprise. I could tell she was used to strict protocols. The term 'amica' Jimin used for me didn't sit well with me, a reminder of how detached our relationship seemed to others. I inquired about its meaning.

"It means 'loved friend,'" Koda said, her tone warm. "It's a term for someone cherished, but in a platonic sense."

The word 'platonic' felt like a cold slap. I had hoped it was more than that. Koda, noticing my discomfort, offered a reassuring smile.

"It’s a term the Alpha takes seriously," she continued. "He’s never used such nicknames for anyone outside his family, and never 'amica.' He might reserve more intense terms for after the bonding ceremony."

Her chuckle was a comforting balm. The tension from before seemed to lift. I hoped she knew I would never raise my voice to her. I suspected Ahn had been one of those dreadful mates she spoke of—vile and cruel.

"He’s very traditional," Koda said. "He’s been handling your union with the utmost respect and had refused to publicly announce your partnership until you woke up."

Her admission was a mixed blessing. I understood his caution but it was still hurtful. He had promised me a choice, yet now it seemed he was hesitant to make it public. The mention of Bo’s interference was aggravating. I would have preferred Jimin to claim me openly, not as a response to political maneuvering.

"Even knowing how cautious he is, I’m surprised the bond hasn’t been completed," Koda mused, speaking more to herself than me. "He’s such a gentleman. His mother raised him well."

I was intrigued. "You know him well?"

"Not personally," Koda admitted. "But he’s one of the few wolves who’ve never laid a hand on me."

"Why stay?" I asked softly, trying to keep our conversation private.

"It’s my duty to serve," she said with a resigned sigh.

I felt a pang of empathy. Though I had never been physically harmed, I understood the feeling of being trapped. Here was Koda, ensnared in her own form of imprisonment. Anger flared within me at the thought of Ahn. I wanted nothing more than to deal with him myself.

"Is Ahn still alive?" I asked with a sneer.

"Ahn?" Koda’s fear was palpable, but she quickly composed herself. "No, he’s dead. It’s only Kim Yong-Seok, Namjoon’s father, and Bo Ha-Joon. Bo’s been struggling—she lost a child."

Guilt washed over me again. The poor woman. I tried to recall her face but couldn’t remember. Ahn had kept the council women silent, a vile man indeed. Kim Yong-Seok would have to be dealt with, but Bo was the immediate issue. I hoped Namjoon would honor his son’s wishes, and I resolved to thank the Alpha for his aid during the fight.

"Taehyung is a good man," Koda said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "Sol is lucky."

I agreed wholeheartedly. Taehyung’s potential shone brightly. Despite his seeming passivity, his heart was in the right place. He fought fiercely, but his strength lay in his care for those around him. I was grateful for his presence.

"What happens now?" I asked as we approached a set of large wooden doors.

"You’ll meet with the council as a new Uxor," Koda said, her voice returning to a professional tone. "Afterward, you’ll start planning your wedding. With everything going on, it might be rushed or postponed. You and Bo will discuss your options. You’ll live in the palace until things settle. You and Jimin won’t be allowed to be alone without a chaperone. Taehyung and the Luna wed quickly for the same reason. Bo was unhappy but accepted it."

I nodded, trying to absorb it all. The rigid customs were foreign to me. Jimin’s mother sounded like a force to be reckoned with, and I was eager to meet her. Koda’s words offered a glimpse of the world I was stepping into, and I hoped for the best.

"Kim isn’t angry about your union," Koda continued. "In fact, he’s pleased. He believes your children will be strong, which is crucial if the war continues. After the wedding, you’ll need to meet with Jimin’s family to discuss arrangements. Traditionally, a woman might serve her in-laws for a year in exchange for loyalty. Mi-Jeong won’t do that to you. She’s strong and will support you."

I smiled, reassured by Koda’s words. The world felt a little less daunting with her by my side. As we neared the council room, Koda’s nerves were palpable, but her kindness had made her a friend in this new, uncertain world.

I struggled to keep up with the parade of rules and formalities, feeling like I was lost in a fog of outdated customs. Was this what Sol had been drilled in her whole life? I scoffed, imagining Taehyung’s indifference to such trivialities. As for Jimin, his disregard for my manners was legendary. It was almost comical to hear about his mother’s no-nonsense temperament, yet it stung how little she knew about the true nature of our bond. The fact that Bo had spilled the beans instead of Jimin himself was a bitter pill to swallow.

“The most important thing,” Koda’s voice cut through my thoughts, “will be your intentions. You’re about to become one of the most influential women in the village. For this to work, you need their trust and respect. You’ve already made quite an impression, and that’s a start. But with the war looming, not everyone will be pleased.”

I could only hope Koda was right. As we approached the door, she signaled for silence and knocked. The room’s murmur faded into a tense hush. When she announced my arrival, the silence exploded into a cacophony of excitement. I couldn’t help but grin when I heard Sol’s voice rise above the din, her eagerness to see me palpable.

“I need to apologize,” she declared, her voice brimming with sincerity. “You’ve been through so much, and I...”

I waved her off, trying to dispel the weight of her guilt. “There’s nothing to forgive. What happened was a drop in the ocean of chaos.”

Sol pouted, her eyes filled with earnest regret. “I still feel I owe you an apology. You’ve done so much for me.”

I hoped my gaze conveyed that her apologies were unnecessary. I had taken Taehyung in because it was the right thing to do, not for any debt of gratitude. To her, I was a savior. To me, I had merely done what was right.

“Let’s move past that,” I said, gently redirecting the conversation. “I’m here to see Jimin.”

I heard a sharp intake of breath from the room’s occupants but ignored it. If Jimin had an issue, we’d discuss it later. For now, I was untroubled by the murmur of others.

“I’d like to be excused now,” I said, my patience wearing thin.

Sol clung to my side, her weariness evident in her voice. “He’s so tired,” she murmured, her tone heavy with fatigue. “His voice... it’s so rough.”

I longed to comfort him, to run my fingers through his hair and kiss his weary face. But decorum held me back. I disentangled myself from Sol and moved closer to him.

“After,” came a deep, commanding voice. “It will only take a few moments, Alpha.”

Stepping into the room, I finally saw Jimin. His hair was pulled back, revealing a face etched with exhaustion. He looked as if he had been through a war—a reflection of what we had endured together. I wanted to rush to him, to reassure him I was alright, but I caught Taehyung’s eye and held myself back. This had to be brief.

Taehyung rose, bowing respectfully. I mirrored the gesture, aware that hugging was out of the question. It would be a step too far, a breach of the decorum Taehyung sought to maintain.

Jimin remained seated, his eyes locked on me. It was clear he struggled with the weight of our recent ordeal. The room's tension was palpable until a voice broke through.

“It’s so wonderful to see you alive, Bridd,” an elderly woman spoke. I assumed she was Bo. “The Council was growing anxious.”

I offered a small, neutral smile. “I am quite well,” I assured her.

“We are grateful for your service,” came another voice.

I turned to find an older man with graying hair and a stern face. He was unmistakably Namjoon’s father. The resemblance was clear, though their shared seriousness was where their similarities ended.

“I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure of a formal introduction,” he said, approaching and bowing deeply. I returned the gesture.

“I am Kim Yong-Seok, Namjoon’s father. I’ve served this council since the time of the previous Bridd, and I am honored to have fought alongside you.”

“I am Y/N,” I replied. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Yong-Seok.”

“Elder Kim is quite alright,” Bo interjected, her voice too sweet for comfort. I resisted the urge to scowl.

Kim took a seat at the large table, which was cluttered but unheeded by the council members. I remained standing, noting Sol’s return to the room. She was curled up in Taehyung’s lap, oblivious to the discussions unfolding. I was envious, and my patience was wearing thin. Jimin’s silence was heavy.

“I would like to thank you for taking Alpha Taehyung in,” Kim said. “My son was not acting rationally, and there were many voices in his ear. I tried to make him see reason. Ahn was the one who intercepted the letter you sent. Ha-Joon found it in his belongings yesterday morning.”

A jolt of anger tightened my jaw. Ahn was dead, and speaking ill of him wouldn’t change that. My anger simmered beneath the surface. I didn’t trust these elders—Kim or Bo. Not yet. I remembered Cadoc’s warning. There was a spy among us, and I needed to be wary.

My thoughts shifted back to Aldara’s cryptic message. I needed to find Naida—wherever she was hidden within Lustra. The name had never come up before, and it unsettled me. I would have to dig through my mentor’s old books to uncover her identity.

Jimin guided me out of the room, and I noted Koda’s absence. She must have slipped away while I was inside. As Jimin wrapped an arm around my waist, pulling me close, I struggled to keep pace. For now, I allowed myself to bask in the simple joy of being near him, pushing my worries aside.

“So,” I whispered, forcing a smile that felt more like a grimace, “I’m your wife now?”

His ears flushed crimson, a stark contrast to his usually composed demeanor. “It’s just a formality,” he replied, his voice trying too hard to be even. I couldn’t help but giggle at the sight of him flustered. For now, it was just us, and that would have to be enough. I’d deal with Cadoc once the sun dipped below the horizon. “I had planned on a proper proposal after this war.”

Jimin guided me through a door and into a dimly lit room, where the flicker of candles barely illuminated the sparse furnishings. A large bed dominated the space, its fresh cotton and lavender-scented sheets almost too pristine. The room was stark and bare—two pillows, a thin blanket. I longed for the comfort of my cabin, with its thick, cozy quilts.

As thoughts of home stirred memories of Shiloh, an ache settled in my chest. I should be grateful to be reunited with my mate, but the façade of being fine was growing tiresome. My emotions swayed wildly, anger and sadness colliding like a storm.

“Come here,” Jimin murmured, his hands sliding down my sides.

I looked up and saw a hunger in his gaze, but it wasn’t the kind of hunger I was ready to feed. His touch felt like a double-edged sword. I wanted to step back, but his grip only tightened, pulling me closer.

“What’s wrong, amica?” he purred, nuzzling my head.

“I don’t want to be left hanging again, alpha,” I breathed, my voice trembling as his fingers brushed the side of my breast. “I know how you feel about my ‘honor.’”

The bitterness in my voice was hard to mask. I hated the idea that he saw me as tainted if we went further. My mind screamed that he wouldn’t think that, but his actions said otherwise. Why else would he be so fearful of loving me openly? Instead, he’d brought me to this shadowy, damp room in a palace teeming with whispers. He seemed content to keep us apart, while I felt as if I was suffocating.

“Is that what you think this is about?” he asked abruptly.

“Isn’t it?” I shot back, my anger flaring anew.

Jimin shook his head, cupping my cheek. I turned away, pushing against him with a desperation that bordered on irrational. I knew I was acting out of raw need, wanting his touch but feeling rejected by it. His denial stung more deeply today, making me feel more inadequate and unwanted than ever. I wanted him to address my betrayal, to shout at me, to confront me for the lives lost, but instead, he remained silent.

“No, mea columba,” he said softly, “You are always someone I am proud to be with. No matter what.”

I scoffed and tried to pull away, but his grip tightened. “Is that why everyone found out about us through that vile woman? You’re so proud you’d rather keep me a secret?”

Jimin’s confusion was palpable as he reached for me. “Where is this coming from?”

I wanted to scream that I didn’t know why I was so enraged, why I’d been so happy to see him moments ago. I wanted to explain that I needed him to need me, to acknowledge my guilt and fears. I wanted to tell him how sorry I was for the things I’d hidden, for the blood on my hands. Instead, I just recoiled.

“You said you’d choose me over everyone, but when it mattered, you didn’t,” I spat. “You didn’t even tell your mother! The only reason she likes me is because she dislikes Bo!”

Jimin reached for me again, his determination unwavering as I backed away. He seized my arm, and our eyes locked. The fierceness in his gaze made my words falter. Tears welled up, blurring my vision.

“Stop it,” he said, his voice unnervingly calm. “I hate it when you talk about yourself like this.”

I opened my mouth, but no sound came out. I felt myself sobbing, overwhelmed by emotions that I couldn’t fully grasp. Was I losing my mind?

“I’m sorry they found out this way,” Jimin said, his voice gentle yet pained. “But you have to believe me when I say I planned to tell them. I just wanted to wait until you were awake, carissima.”

I knew that. Koda had explained it, and I had believed her. My anger should have been directed at Bo, not Jimin. I struggled to understand why I was so furious. What was wrong with me?

“You’re overwhelmed,” Jimin murmured, pulling me into his embrace. “I just want to help you relax, carissima.”

I nodded, sinking into his chest. Despite having slept for two days, exhaustion clung to me. Jimin rubbed my back, kissed my head, but the comfort did little to still my racing heart.

“Amica means friend,” I sobbed, my body wracked with violent shakes. “Is that all I am to you? Just a friend?”

Jimin’s dark chuckle rumbled through him. “Of course you’re my friend, Y/N. My dearest, most loved friend. Is that a problem?”

I nodded, tears still streaming. I felt like a storm was raging within me, a tempest I couldn’t calm. My stomach churned, and I felt like I might vomit. As I closed my eyes, Cordelia’s face flashed before me, and I flinched away from Jimin. The overwhelming grief felt eerily similar to Aldara’s death. I gripped his shirt and sobbed uncontrollably.

“Can’t we be both?” he whispered. “Can’t you be my very best friend and my lover at once?”

I nodded again, unable to speak. My crying continued, each sob a release of pent-up agony. The sounds of people moving outside were distant and irrelevant. All I wanted was to hide in his arms forever, to be enveloped in his warmth. Why had I pushed him away?

“Sweet girl,” his lips brushed my ear, “I’m not upset with you.”

I exhaled shakily, finally finding some relief. I curled into his body, my hands pressing against his strong back, feeling the muscles shift beneath my touch. Jimin sighed deeply and rested his head on my shoulder. I buried my face in his neck, breathing in his familiar scent. My cries began to subside.

“Fall apart,” he whispered. “I’ll be here to hold you together.”

For the first time in a long while, I let myself revel in his love, shedding the guilt that had weighed me down.

“I forgive you,” he kissed my cheek. “I’m sorry you were hurting.”

“I’m so sorry, Jimin,” I choked out.

He responded with a tender kiss on my collarbone and a gentle bite on my jaw. The moon climbed higher in the sky, and as I stared out the lone window of what I now considered my own room, I awaited a sign of Cadoc. It wouldn’t be long before I could leave this place. The walls felt suffocating without Jimin’s embrace, but he stayed with me for the entire hour, holding me as I cried until my tears ran dry and my wails had quieted. I told him everything—the visions, the secrets, the pain.

He listened as I recounted the battles, the injuries, the loss. He flinched when I spoke of Yoongi and wept with me as I described dragging Cordelia’s lifeless body from a pile of the dead.

“She was so heavy,” I lamented, rocking in his arms. “So, so heavy.”

Though Jimin had duties to attend to, he was reluctant to leave me. He offered to send someone else to stay with me, but I refused. No one but him was welcome in this room. This would be my sanctuary, my new nest, and I would decide who could enter. I would make an exception for Koda, but only to keep her away from Bo and Kim. My friends were unlikely to come searching for me here, not with my desire to escape this castle so evident.

I caught sight of a shadow slipping through the village like a ghost—a dark figure darting between the flickering lanterns and darkened doorways. I didn’t wait for a signal or an invitation. I shifted, my wings unfolding with a silent grace, cutting through the night like a whisper. The palace loomed ahead, shrouded in darkness, and I maneuvered effortlessly around its towering walls, my feathered form blending with the moonlit shadows.

Landing near the main door, I knew I couldn’t open it without raising alarms. I needed another route. The window in my room was sealed tight, but luck was on my side tonight—one window, in the maze of broken frames, stood open, a gaping hole left by repairs.

I seized the opportunity, shifting back into my human form as I slipped through the opening. The forest greeted me with a chilling silence, the kind that presses in on you, making every sound a threat. I hoped my friends were safe—Patto was tough, but Delinah, she was vulnerable. Elves had a taste for deer, and I shuddered to think of the worst.

Cadoc awaited me in our meadow, his silhouette barely discernible against the destruction. The cottage stood in ruins, yet it felt untouched by time, as if it had been forgotten in the chaos. The air was still, untouched by recent visitors. I could tell no one had been here for days; they must have abandoned it when they thought it was of no more use.

“No one’s been out here,” Cadoc’s voice cut through the stillness as I approached.

I landed softly, shifting back into my human form with practiced ease. The spell on my clothes had never seemed more valuable. Cadoc, now draped in dark, blending seamlessly with the night, looked both familiar and strange with that ghostly, translucent aura. I kept my guard up, fingers curling around the iron ring I wore.

“What do you know?” I demanded, cutting straight to the chase.

“Not much,” he admitted, his voice laced with frustration. “Samanya is suspicious of the female chief, but that seems too easy. Lorcan distrusts humans, his judgment clouded by bias. Both are heading to our queen in Moland to discuss their theories.”

I frowned. The lack of consensus between them wasn’t promising. If they couldn’t agree, how could their queen be of any help? Why was she still in Moland when the real battle raged in Foxglove? It made no sense, and I couldn’t find fault with Bo or the humans. Even if I disliked the older woman, her loyalty to her pack was undeniable. It was hard to believe she’d betray them or kill her own child.

“What evidence is there that anyone was involved?”

“They entered through the caves,” Cadoc explained, frustration etched in his features. “No army could traverse them so quietly without intimate knowledge. How did no wolves detect them? It’s too strange to ignore.”

I had to agree—it was bizarre. The cave’s echoing silence was a stark contrast to what should have been a cacophony of warning. Only someone who knew the cave’s ins and outs could exploit it so effectively. The wolves would have been on high alert for any sign of intrusion, but nothing had stirred. It ruled out the humans, who were barred from the cave. The whole situation felt unsettling.

“You believe me,” Cadoc said, surprised.

“You make good points,” I replied. “But why would someone use elves against their own?”

“Power,” he said, grimly. “The same reason elves betray one another.”

Elves were vile creatures. Aldara had always said that Quietus killed for vengeance while elves killed for glory. They thrived on destruction, hating hybrids and “halflings.” During the Century War, they had taken Korika from the wolves and foxes. Lustra had resisted, but those who once ruled had diminished. Quietus were among them, their aggression towards outsiders evident. Aldara’s tales had painted them as monstrous, but looking at Cadoc, I saw the truth in her words. Despite his unyielding support, I kept my thoughts about Quietus involvement to myself. We couldn’t afford infighting when the real enemy still lurked.

“What did your ancestor show you?” Cadoc asked. “The witch boy said you’d seen her in the spirit world.”

I frowned. “She mentioned someone named Naida.”

Cadoc’s face shifted, recognition dawning in his eyes. The name stirred something within him, but I couldn’t place it. Aldara had spun tales of Lustra and its legends, but names had always eluded me. Keld, the fire dragon guarding King Omar’s grave, came to mind. I wondered if the elves were encroaching on dragon territory and whether the Sarkan allies were missing. The humans in Northorn seemed far from their home country, while Northorn itself was in turmoil.

“And she said you specifically?” Cadoc pressed.

I nodded, weary. Cadoc began to pace, mumbling to himself. I grew increasingly frustrated, wishing he’d just tell me what I needed to know. My emotions were a storm, and I struggled to keep them at bay.

“You’ll need to go to the Ozryn Mountains,” he finally said. “Finding Naida is impossible without Khione. She’s in the Mountains near Idris, and you might convince her to help if you explain the situation here.”

I scoffed. “Who are these people?”

“Khione is an elemental who bends the elements. She’s Naida’s closest friend, and easier to find.”

I sighed in exasperation. After the day I’d had, my patience was threadbare. I wanted to return to Foxglove, to sneak into Jimin’s house for comfort, even if it meant defying him. The thought of leaving made me want to break down. My frustration boiled over, and I clenched my jaw.

“I don’t know who any of these people are!” I shouted. “Explain it to me, Cadoc. I’m lost, and you’re telling me to go find some elemental.”

Cadoc paused, his gaze piercing. I felt I was missing something crucial, but my understanding of the wider world was limited. Politics and war had never been my forte. The only woman I could think of was Queen Elizabeth of Northorn, but she held no significance here.

“You’re too young to remember the age of dragons,” Cadoc said, as if realizing my ignorance. “Naida is the first dragon-shifter, the mother of them all. Khione is a distant relative of dragons, born from a dragon and a Quietus couple. Their lineages are the remnants of ancient dragons.”

“I didn’t ask for a history lesson,” I grunted.

“It’s vital you understand who you’re dealing with,” he insisted.

“There’s no Naida in Alcona,” I snapped.

Cadoc chuckled softly, disarmed by my reaction. I flushed, realizing I was overreacting. I offered a sheepish smile and scratched behind my ear, my frustration ebbing away.

“Naida is a water dragon,” Cadoc continued. “Khione is an elemental with diluted blood, unable to shift.”

Dragon-shifters were believed to be fire elementals from Alcona Islands. Aldara had mentioned their enslavement during the Century War, forced into service by Sarkan weaponry. Water and air dragons were rare, and the thought of water tribes in Ozryn was unfamiliar, like the rumors of hybrids hidden in the mountains.

“The people of Alcona know her,” Cadoc explained. “Queen Affra is her godchild, though they seldom meet. Naida bears a grudge against Etelin for what they’ve done.”

I was skeptical about finding this dragon woman. My experience was limited to the forest and Moland. I had no maps or guidance. Jimin would resist my departure fiercely, and I’d need to navigate around him. Cadoc seemed to read my thoughts.

“Samanya will have maps for your journey,” he said. “She might even offer to accompany you.”

“No,” I shook my head. “If I’m gone, I want the strongest fighters here. I’ll go alone and write when I can.”

Cadoc seemed disappointed but conceded. I was resolute. I’d ensure only I was missing and would need to convince Kim and Bo to let me go, promising to return with help. Taehyung would see through any pretense, adding another complication to my plans.

“You’re braver than you look,” Cadoc said.

“I don’t feel that way,” I replied.

Ignoring his comment, Cadoc continued. “You’ll first need to get to Clarcton. There, you can find lodging. The elves are avoiding Briar Glen Beach, where Keld resides. He’ll alert Queen Affra.”

“Pack for the cold, buy clothes, and find a guide to the mountains,” he instructed. “The elves are at the northern tip of Northorn. Seek out help if you can. Stay south in the mountains and find the passageway to Idris.”

“How will I know I’m going the right way?”

“Dwarf caves are common,” Cadoc said. “You’ll hear them during the day. Avoid traveling at night—danger lurks in the dark. If you’re lucky, someone will inquire about your presence. Mention you’re seeking Khione. Dwarves hate elves more than we do.”

“If not, follow any distant light. That’s Khione’s tower. It will guide you.”

The plan was forming. Tonight, I’d gather grimoires from the cellar and ask Cadoc to take them back. Over the next two days, I’d study fiercely, preparing for the challenges ahead. I’d select a few books to bring along, my companions on this uncertain journey. I had to start soon if I hoped to be ready by dawn.

“Stay here,” I told Cadoc. “I need to gather some things.”

“Heidi would have better information,” Cadoc said, recalling her from the war. “The girl with her would be helpful, too.”

I walked inside and opened the cellar door. The cold air hit me like a slap, and I shivered despite myself. The place was a mess of old crates and dusty shelves, but I knew exactly what I needed. I grabbed a few of my knives and set about crafting a new one. Thelma’s order for iron had come in, and there were two iron sconces in my room I could melt down. My magic was temperamental, and I couldn’t afford any mistakes. On my way out, I snatched three feathers I found in Shiloh’s nest, tucking them into my pocket.

“Look,” Cadoc started up again as we trudged back to the village, “I get why you want to do this alone, but at least think about bringing a friend.”

Annoyance flared. I huffed, letting my frustration boil over. “Do you think I’m too weak to handle this by myself?” I shot back.

“Absolutely not,” he replied, his voice dripping with sincerity so convincing I almost bought it. “But I do think you’re loyal to a fault. You’re starting to act recklessly, putting everyone else’s needs before your own safety.”

“Well,” I sighed, “it’s my duty to protect this forest—and that includes the people within it.”

Even to my own ears, it sounded weak. The idea of going alone was gnawing at me. Something inside was pushing me to do this on my own, but I couldn’t quite put it into words, especially not to someone like Cadoc. Elementals were never the most spiritual bunch; I doubted he’d understand.

“Tell me, how would your wolf feel about this?” Cadoc prodded.

“He’d never allow it,” I snapped. “Jimin would forbid it, even if I had an army backing me. Overprotective fool.”

“And what does that make you?” Cadoc’s voice took on a sharper edge. He was clearly irked. “A prideful martyr? An overzealous know-it-all?”

I breathed deeply through my nose, fighting to keep my temper in check. My emotions were already frayed—Namjoon, Jimin, and now Cadoc had all managed to push me to my breaking point. Still, Cadoc’s words stung more than I cared to admit.

“Are you trying to get yourself killed?” he taunted. “I know you’ve suffered, and I’m sorry for what you’ve been through, but do you really intend to die? You’re much more valuable alive.”

My face twisted with frustration, and I threw my hands up. The books I was carrying felt like they weighed a ton, and I dropped them with a thud. My eyes burned, and I was even angrier at the tears that threatened to spill.

“Why does everyone treat me like I’m made of glass?” I seethed.

“Do they?” Cadoc dead-panned.

I glared at him, feeling a creeping sense of irrationality. It was as though I was watching someone else’s life unfold, seeing the world through another’s eyes. I didn’t feel like myself.

“But your wolf does?”

I closed my eyes and stopped walking. “Not exactly. I’m just... tired of being coddled by him. He’s always so kind and understanding, and it makes me feel like I don’t have to work for anything with him.”

Cadoc’s mouth twitched slightly, but his eyes remained stony. In the darkness of the trees, his gaze seemed stranger, almost glowing faintly. I lit our way with a flame spell, the heat uncomfortable against my skin, but I pushed through the growing discomfort.

“Does one need to work for love?” he asked.

I pursed my lips. “Everything in life takes work.”

“Sure,” he quipped, “but do you think you have to earn his love? Fight for it?”

“I-” I stammered. “I thought we all fight for what we want.”

Aldara had drilled into me that anything worth having came from hard work—mastering my powers, pushing my limits, learning potion-making. Nothing came easily. Earning Jimin’s affection was just another challenge, and I had a lot to make up for.

“Do you think Jimin wants you to fight for his love, or has he given it to you freely?”

After a pause, I whispered, “He’s always given it freely, though I don’t deserve it.”

“Would you like to talk about that?”

I told Cadoc about my nightmares, the spirits that haunted me, and how I cried every night in shame while Jimin held me. He listened in silence, his sympathy palpable but unwelcome. I didn’t want anyone’s pity. This whole mess was my fault. If I’d confided in my boys, we could have done something. When I voiced that thought, Cadoc’s scowl deepened.

“You can’t seriously think this is all your fault, can you?” he hissed.

“I can and do,” I shot back, my defenses already up. “And you can’t shift any of the blame off me. I deserve to feel this way, Cadoc. I don’t care what anyone says, if I—”

“You’re throwing away your life on a ‘what-if’ scenario?” Cadoc growled. “The elves would have attacked no matter what. If they’d known the wolves were ready, it would have been even worse. You can’t change what’s happened, Bridd.”

“But I can atone for it,” I mumbled, the fire within me dimming. I was exhausted, craving rest, longing for Jimin.

“I’ll tell your boyfriend,” Cadoc threatened suddenly. “Unless you let someone help you.”

Glowering, I summoned the last of my strength to shout at him. “Why are you so pushy?”

“You saved my life,” Cadoc reasoned as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. “I owe you. I think a life for a life is the only fair trade.”

I could see I wasn’t going to win this battle. If he told Jimin, my departure would be impossible. Yet, if I went alone, I’d endanger someone else. Feeling defeated, I nodded, accepting my fate. What was one more death on my shoulders? The thought made me shiver, and I pushed it away.

“I get to choose who comes with me,” I said.

Cadoc’s smile was triumphant. I felt sick to my stomach. Each step felt heavier, and I knew I wouldn’t make it much further. Thankfully, the village appeared on the horizon.

“You’ve got yourself a deal, Bridd. We’ll decide in two days.”

“Two days,” I affirmed.

I found his home easily. Despite the disarray and damage, it was clear that people had tried to keep it together. I didn’t think it would withstand much longer, but I hoped it would be enough for Jimin to stay safe. The other copiae had taken refuge in the palace, their homes too damaged. Bo had insisted Jimin stay out here, away from us, and I could only hope he would be safe.

I made my way to the bedroom window where I had flown in months ago. How much had changed since then! The thought twisted inside me, a bittersweet mix of joy and pain. Jimin was at his desk, quill in hand, hair tied back. The soft candlelight flickered across his face, casting shadows that made him look almost ethereal.

Cadoc had taken my things to my room—Heidi’s five books, Griselda’s one, and two more of Aldara’s journals. His powers made gliding through the village practically silent, a feat my bird could never manage. Along with the books, I’d packed spare trousers, my jewelry box, and my quilts. This room would be mine for a few days, and I intended to make it feel like home. I hoped it might bring Jimin some comfort in my absence. I tapped on the glass.

Jimin glanced up and rose from his chair. He gestured toward the front door, and I circled the small house. The door was already open, and Jimin’s arms stretched out to me.

“You were gone when I came to check on you,” he said softly.

I stepped into his embrace, closing the door behind me with a firm kick. His warmth enveloped me, and I inhaled deeply, savoring the familiar scent. The thought of being away from him for so long was almost unbearable.

“I sneaked away,” I said with a grin. “Needed to grab some of my things. Hopefully, Bo won’t be too upset.”

Jimin chuckled. “Ignore her. She’s hurting and trying to drown herself in distractions.”

“Like hate? Disgust? Disdain?” I asked, resting my chin on his chest and peering up at him.

He pressed a kiss to my forehead. “Jealousy,” he sniffed my hair and stiffened. “You weren’t alone on your outing.”

I shook my head. “No. Cadoc wanted to discuss some... issues they’re facing.”

“Can we talk about it?”

I nodded and reluctantly pulled away from him. I knew I wouldn’t be able to focus on anything while he was coddling me. I stifled a yawn and waved off his concern. Jimin, like everyone else in my life, treated me as though I were a delicate glass house in a storm. Normally, I appreciated his tenderness, but tonight we needed a serious conversation, and his pampering was only going to derail it.

“They think there’s a whistleblower,” I began, sinking into the sofa. “Using caves was risky, and they’re consulting their Queen about it now.”

“Taehyung and I considered that possibility,” Jimin mused, his gaze intent on me. “Is that all?”

Again, I faced a choice. Lie and deepen the breach of trust, or be honest and risk a confrontation. I was too drained for a real fight tonight, but I could muster enough strength to plead my case.

“I might need to do something in the next few days,” I said, staring at my hands. “It won’t be easy, but you need to trust me.”

“You need to give trust to receive it.”

Looking at him, I saw the hurt in his eyes. Keeping secrets had made everything worse. Even if he never voiced it, even if we never spoke it aloud, I knew he was pained by my silence. All this time, I’d been focused on keeping him safe, never considering that he wanted to ensure my safety too. Taking a deep breath, I braced myself for the words I knew wouldn’t ease his mind, but hoped might soothe his anxiety.

“I can’t tell you much right now,” I said, taking his hand. “I don’t know enough myself, but when I do, I’ll let you know. There are things I need to figure out first.”

His heart seemed to break with each word. His face fell, and his eyes dimmed, but I knew this was the right decision. I wished we could have a reassuring conversation, but tonight wasn’t the right time. I was too tired and emotional. I had no clear path, no idea who would accompany me, and I couldn’t let Jimin’s protectiveness hinder my mission.

“I can live with that,” he said quietly.

“It won’t be like last time,” I promised.

Jimin peered into my eyes. “You look exhausted.”

Relief washed over me as he lifted me off the sofa and settled me onto his makeshift cot. He took my feet in his hands, rubbing my arches. I was astonished by his touch, not caring about the dirt. It had been so long since anyone had touched me like this.

“I’m sorry for this morning,” I murmured. “I’m just so tired. I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”

He lifted my foot and pressed a gentle kiss to the top before dropping it back into his lap. The cot was nothing more than a stack of blankets on the hard floor, and the thin pillow beneath my head was far from comfortable. Yet, as I lay there, I had never felt more at ease before sleep.

“There’s nothing to forgive,” he said with a grin. “I love you even when you’re angry and frustrated with the world.”

I choked back a sob and reached out to him. “Can you just hold me? Just for a little while?”

We lay together on the floor for the rest of the night, talking and caressing each other. I had missed a lot while I slept, and I was glad to hear the updates. Koda’s words from earlier had eased my insecurities about our slow progress. Jimin truly believed he was honoring me this way, and I would let him have it.

“Jimin?” I called out, my voice rough from overuse.

“Hm?” he hummed, half-asleep, barely able to keep his eyes open.

“I love you too.”

He chuckled, the sound resonating deep in his chest and vibrating through me. With a kiss to my head, he turned onto his side, pulling me close against his chest. His warmth was almost overwhelming, and I was relieved we didn’t have a blanket; I would have been sweating buckets by now. Another kiss to the back of my head, and soon his gentle snores filled the room. As the sun rose, I fell asleep with a smile, imagining Bo’s confusion at finding my room empty.

Translations:

Socrus - Mother-in-law

Levir - Brother

Mea columba - My Dove

Carissima - Dearest

Disclaimer: I can’t speak Latin at all. I try to research as much as I can, but that doesn’t mean I’m always right. I do attempt to keep it as close as possible without relying on Google Translate (it’s not the best source either). The Lustrian language is a made up language based on Old English. None of it is accurate, but I don’t think that matters all that much.

Taglist: @greezenini @adventures-in-bookland @kthstrawberryshortcake-main @zae007live @jimin-neverout @nikkiordonez12 @canarystwin @yamekomz @chimthicc @michiiedreamer @amorieus @mima795 @i-never-post-but-i-am-here

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