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writemywaytoyourheart · 3 years ago

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Aim For The Heart | Chapter 25: Meraki

Pairing: hitman!jungkook x female reader

Genre: romance, drama, angst

WC: 25.8k

Warnings for this chapter: strong language, constipated fEElings, mentions of past rape, a gun, murder, poison, stalking, past physical and emotional abuse (its really upsetting guys im sorry), things get a tad bit steamy so hold on to ya butts, i think that’s it, as always pls point out something i missed if it can be triggering.

summary; Jeon Jungkook is an infamous hitman, known for his inability to fail at whatever job is thrown his way. At least, up until now. Y/n, a kind-hearted and full of life teacher, is his newest target. Jeon isn’t sure who would put a hit on this seemingly innocent girl, but fortunately, that isn’t his problem. All he has to do is pull the trigger.

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"Dude, wake up! Turn it off!"

Jungkook groans and turns on his side, ignoring Tae's blubbering.

Then another sound reaches his ears.

A loud beeping.

What the fuck is that?

Jungkook lifts his head to see Tae staring at him grumpily from the couch, his eyes squinted and his hair poking up in every direction.

Then Jungkook looks towards his nightstand and sees his phone screen is lighting up.

He wiggles over to the nightstand and grabs his phone, looking at the bleary image of his phone where an alarm is going off, telling him to get the cats.

Get the cats?

The fuck?

What cats?

Then it clicks in his brain.

Oh shit.

He literally bought two cats yesterday.

Was that just yesterday? It feels like forever ago...

Jungkook turns off the alarm and flops face down into his pillow.

Tae lays down again, satisfied at the quiet as he snuggles into his covers.

But not a minute later, Jungkook is getting out of bed and making a shit ton of noise as he looks for something to eat.

A deep growl leaves Taehyung's throat, "Why are you making so much fucking noise?"

"Sorry," Jungkook says sleepily, not even snapping back.

That makes Tae sit up and look towards the kitchen.

"Why aren't you fighting back?" He asks suspiciously as he rubs his eyes.

Jungkook shrugs as he takes a bite out of a cookie, then moves to get a glass of milk.

Tae sighs, "You can't eat cookies for breakfast, Jungkook."

"You can't tell me what to do," Jungkook smirks at him.

The older boy rolls his eyes and stands up, scratching his head and walking to the kitchen, "I'll make some real food, go take a shower."

"I don't need a shower-"

"Uh, yeah you do. You fucking reek."

Jungkook sniffs under his arms, then shrugs, "Fine."

He stuffs the rest of the cookie into his mouth and gulps the milk as Tae grumbles about him ruining his appetite before he can get some real food into him.

Then Jungkook goes to the bathroom to take a shower as Tae starts making some breakfast.

Not long later, Jungkook comes out, drying his hair.

He sniffs the air, "Smells good, Tae."

Taehyung smirks as he plates up some side dishes, "Yeah I know."

Jungkook rolls his eyes and moves to get dressed.

Breakfast goes by fairly quickly without much discussion. But as Jungkook is taking his last few bites, Tae speaks up.

"So, what are you doing today?"

Jungkook freezes.

He can't really lie to him, he's literally going to be bringing home a fucking cat.

So, Jungkook swallows his last bite then says, "I'm going to get my new cat."

Taehyung's eyes bulge, "Cat? You got a cat??"

Jungkook nods then clears his place and brings his dishes to the sink.

Tae watches after him, "Why the fuck you get a cat?"

"Why not?" Jungkook asks.

Tae sits there for a moment, processing his words. Then he shrugs, "No reason I guess."

After doing the dishes, Jungkook goes to the door to pull on his shoes, "I'll be back later."

Tae hovers around him until Jungkook acknowledges him, "What's up?"

The older boy shifts on his feet, "Can I go with you?"

Jungkook laughs, "Sure, why are you acting so weird?"

Taehyung shoots him a glare, "I'm not, I just thought you'd tell me to fuck off."

That makes Jungkook pause as Tae starts pulling on his shoes.

Has he been too cold with him recently?

Jungkook bites his lip, "Tae?"

"Mm?" The elder mumbles, focusing on getting his shoes on.

"I'm... sorry...?"

The older hitman stands up, giving Jungkook a weird look.

"The fuck? Why are you apologizing and why did it sound so questionable?"

Jungkook sighs, "I just- I feel like I've been a dick recently and I'm sorry."

Taehyung barks out a laugh, "You've been a dick since you were fifteen, JK. Don't apologize, it's fucking weird. Don't make shit weird."

"I just don't want you to think I don't want to hang out with you-"

"Annnnnd you made it weird."

Jungkook scowls.

Tae flicks him on the forehead, "I'm not used to you being all soft and sensitive anymore, it doesn't sit well. Just get your keys and let's go."

The younger sighs and grabs his keys and wallet, then they leave.

______________________________________

The bell above the door dings as Jungkook and Tae walk into the pet shop.

Jungkook is relieved to see the same worker that helped him buy the two cats standing at the counter and looking through a binder.

Taehyung walks over to look at some of the puppies as Jungkook goes to the front counter.

The worker looks up and smiles when he sees Jungkook, "Hey! You ready to pick them up?"

Jungkook nods, "Yes, thanks again for doing this."

The worker waves him off, "Not a problem at all! I'm glad those two are finally getting a new home, they've been waiting long enough."

The worker tells Jungkook he'll be right back, so Jungkook looks for Tae. He ends up finding him over by the bunny cage.

"Gonna get a new bunny?" He asks, making Tae jump.

The older boy shakes his head, "Nah, I was just thinking about how much this one looks like you," He points at a black bunny nibbling on a carrot.

Jungkook laughs, "It does not."

"One hundred percent dude, it absolutely does."

Jungkook shakes his head, "You're crazy. Anyway, did you want to help me pick out some things for the cats?"

Tae's head swivels towards him, "Cats? As in plural?”

Jungkook nods.

He has to get the orange cat now anyway, he's not going to be able to hide it from him.

"I bought one for a friend too."

Tae gives him a weird look, "Weird thing to buy for a friend but ok."

"Come on," Jungkook drags him over to the section that has cat toys, treats, beds, and food.

Suddenly, Tae is like a pet expert as he takes charge, "Ok, you're gonna need food and water bowls. Is your cat a boy or girl?"

Jungkook crouches next to him, scanning the options, "Mine is black and he's a boy. My friend's is orange, and it's a girl."

"Alright, wait go get a basket," Tae mumbles as he looks over them all. Jungkook gets up to get a basket to carry everything, then he comes back to see Tae reaching for something.

"How about this one for your friend?" He has one that has two metal bowls attached, it's pink with little pictures of different kinds of candy on the sides.

"Oh, that's perfect," Jungkook takes it and puts it in the basket, it looks just like something you would buy.

"Cool, do you like this one?" Tae holds up another one that is designed the same with the bowls connecting, but this one is all black. It looks simple but cool.

Jungkook nods, "I like it."

Tae keeps it then they pick out some toys before looking at the beds.

They stand there, observing the beds carefully.

Then Jungkook steps forward, "It's gotta be this one, dude," He points at a pink sphere-shaped cat bed. Tae laughs, "I actually really like that one."

Tae grabs it and holds it to the side, "Which one do you like, JK?"

Jungkook thinks for a moment, then he grabs a grey almost triangle-shaped one, "I think I'm gonna get this one."

Tae nods, "Simple, I like it."

They bring everything to the front counter just as the male worker and another female worker bring the cats out.

Jungkook sets the basket down on the counter, "Can we get this stuff too, please?"

The worker nods, "Of course! You're all prepared, I can tell you're gonna be a great cat dad."

Tae snickers at that, making Jungkook roll his eyes.

He sees the orange cat mewing in the girl's arms, and he smiles.

You're going home to your favorite person soon, I promise.

They check out all of the items they got, then the worker tells Jungkook that they are all up to date on their shots so there isn't any reason to worry about that.

"You can also get some collars if you'd like?"

Jungkook thinks for a moment, "I think I'll get them later, thank you."

He wants you to pick out the collar, and you need to name them first.

Jungkook and Tae both hook some bags on their arms, they each grab a bed, then the workers come over with the cats.

The black cat practically leaps out of the male worker's arms to get to Jungkook.

They both laugh as Jungkook takes the cat, "Hey, buddy."

The girl hands the orange cat to Tae as it meows and meows.

She laughs, "She's happy, those are happy meows."

Tae nods, "Oh good, hey little kitty."

Jungkook watches Tae with the cat for a minute, a weird ache in his chest as the brutal hitman smiles at the small fluffy creature.

He snaps out of it when Tae looks at him.

"Why are you staring at me?" He asks.

"I wasn't," Jungkook thanks the workers then heads out quickly.

Tae catches up to him as they make their way to the car. He holds both cats on his lap as Jungkook drives.

Tiny and adorable mews fill the car as the two cats sniff Taehyung curiously.

A tiny smile appears on Jungkook's face when he hears Tae laugh because as he says, "they're tickling my nose" as the cats sniff him.

Jungkook pulls up to his apartment, "Can you bring my stuff up, Tae? I need to bring my friend the cat."

Tae nods, "Sure, do you want me to bring the cat, or do you wanna keep him with you?"

Jungkook thinks about it for a minute, then he says, "You can bring him up, let him check out the apartment."

Tae nods again, "Alrighty, let's go, buddy."

He grabs Jungkook's cat things and the black cat then he heads upstairs.

Jungkook waits till he sees him get into the main building, then he looks at the orange cat, "Ready to go meet your mom?"

She meows, looking at Jungkook with huge eyes.

"I'll take that as a yes."

_____________________________

Jungkook pulls up to Jimin's condo, excitement fluttering in his tummy.

He had already texted Jimin the night before, asking if it was okay for the cat to stay there until you go home. Jimin was delighted to have the cat stay over, much to Jungkook's relief.

He turns off the car and hops out, coming around to the passenger seat where the kitten has sat the entire time.

He can tell she isn't going to be a troublemaker.

He opens the door, chuckling when she meows and comes closer to him, her big eyes looking at him in confusion.

Jungkook grabs the cat bed, the other bag with the essentials, then picks her up carefully.

*ding dong*

The door is opened almost immediately by Jimin, who has a huge smile on his face.

"She's gonna be so excited!" He whispers happily, stepping aside so Jungkook can come in, "She's in the bathroom right now, come on in."

Jungkook brings the stuff over to the couch and sets the bag and cat bed down on the ground.

"Ohhh, can I hold her?" Jimin asks with huge puppy eyes.

Jungkook nods, "Sure," He hands her to him carefully.

"meow!"

They both laugh at her curious meow when she sees Jimin.

Then the two of them hear the toilet flush and the sink turn on.

Jimin hands the orange fluff ball back to Jungkook, "Here, you should be the one to hand her to ____."

Jungkook holds her close to his chest, letting her sniff at his nose and mouth as they wait for you to come out.

"Ji-Jimin, I have an idea f-for lunch-"

You freeze when you see Jungkook standing in the living room.

His muscular yet lean frame stretching the arms of his black t-shirt will never fail to make your heart race.

"J-Jungkook!"

He smiles when he sees your eyes light up at the sight of him. You're taking a step forward to come to him, then you freeze.

Wait...

What is he holding?

There's a tiny orange ball of fluff in his arms...

You take a step closer.

"mew."

Tears spring to your eyes as your hands fly to your mouth, "Oh!"

Jungkook's smile grows at your reaction, "Come on, come hold her," He says gently.

You walk over to them and hold out your arms, letting Jungkook place her into your hold.

"I c-can't believe you g-got her," You look up at Jungkook, a tear slipping out, "Th-Thank you for giving h-her a home, Jungkook. C-Can I come vi-visit her sometimes?"

Jungkook laughs, "She's yours, ____."

Your eyes widen, then you look between the kitten and Jungkook.

"R-Really?"

"Mhm."

You burst into tears and hold the kitten tighter, "Ohhh, P-Pumpkin, I've been w-waiting for you."

Jungkook and Jimin look at each other in surprise.

"You already named her?" Jungkook asks in confusion.

You nod, "I n-named her when I first m-met her."

"Pumpkin is the perfect name," Jimin says, a huge smile on his face.

Jungkook nods, "It really suits her."

The three of you sit on the couch and play with Pumpkin as Jungkook tells you that he got the black cat too.

"Th-They can be b-bestfriends!" You squeal happily.

Jungkook laughs, "I'm sure they will be."

You look at him with shining eyes, "W-We can have pl-play dates," You whisper.

Jungkook feels his heart twang as he smiles and nods.

"I w-wanna meet y-your baby!" You say to Jungkook, picking Pumpkin up and hugging her close as she meows.

Jungkook laughs, his cheeks pink as he rubs the back of his neck, "I'll bring him over tomorrow or something."

"Have y-you thought of a n-name yet?" You ask.

Jungkook shakes his head, "No, not yet."

"You'll think of something," Jimin assures him, gently scratching under Pumpkin's chin.

The three (or four now) of you hang out until Jungkook says he needs to head home and get the cat's stuff ready.

You hand Pumpkin to Jimin and walk Jungkook to the door, stepping out on the porch.

"Don't w-worry, Jimin won't c-catch us again," You say cutely.

Jungkook laughs, "Thank goodness for that."

He looks at you as you stare into his eyes.

The way you look at him makes his breath catch in his throat.

The two of you just stare at each other for a minute, then you whisper, "Thank y-you, so much."

Jungkook nods with a small smile, "I'm glad you're so happy."

Suddenly the air gets knocked out of him when you slam into him, wrapping your arms around his middle.

Jungkook laughs and pets your head.

_________________________________

"I'm back," Jungkook calls out as he steps inside.

Tae comes out of the bathroom, the little black cat in his arms.

"Look at that, Daddy's home!"

Jungkook glares at him, "Call me that again and your ass is going through at least three walls."

Tae just laughs and sets the cat down.

"What the hell were you doing with him in the bathroom anyway?" Jungkook asks, bending down to pet the cat that's mewing and rubbing on his ankles.

"We were staring at each other in the mirror," Tae says as he walks over and flops onto the couch.

Jungkook shakes his head.

He wouldn't put that past him.

"I'm glad the two of you are getting along," Jungkook picks up the cat when it keeps trying to climb his leg.

He holds it out in front of him, "Hmm, what should I call you?"

"mew."

Jungkook smiles.

Tae walks over and scratches the cat under the chin, "Where did you get that?"

Jungkook looks at him, "Huh? What?"

Tae touches Jungkook's bracelet, then he takes the angel wing charm in between his fingers.

"I-" Jungkook swallows, "I just saw someone selling it the other day."

"Huh."

Taehyung lets go of the charm as Jungkook moves to set the cat down.

When he straightens up again, Tae is looking at him.

It feels like he's staring into his soul.

Jungkook keeps his ground as Tae steps closer and closer.

Until their faces are a few inches apart.

"Are you lying to me?" Taehyung whispers.

"I don't have a reason to lie to you," Jungkook replies steadily.

Tae studies him for a second, "I'm giving you this one chance JK. Are you lying to me?"

Jungkook looks at his best friend of eighteen years.

His voice doesn't waver at all when he responds, "No."

Tae, satisfied with that answer, backs off.

Jungkook watches as the hitman walks to the couch to grab his wallet and phone.

"I'm leaving again."

"Where are you going?" Jungkook asks hesitantly.

Tae turns to look at him, "Someone in Daegu needs a hit done."

"Oh," Jungkook looks at the black cat as he jumps onto his bed and starts kneading the covers.

"You still haven't gotten anything?" Tae asks, suspicion lacing his tone.

Jungkook shrugs, "Maybe it's because you're taking them all."

Tae chuckles, "If you need help landing a job, just ask JK. No need to be shy about it."

Jungkook shakes his head, "I can find hits on my own, thank you very much."

"Whatever," Tae stuffs his phone and wallet into his pockets, then he walks past Jungkook, "I'll be back in a week, maybe a little longer."

The door shuts behind him, leaving Jungkook standing there, biting his lip as he stares at the light seeping in through the window.

______________________________________

"Hello?"

"Hey, J-Jungkook!"

"Is everything okay?"

You can hear the worry in his voice, and you feel your heart warm.

"Totally okay! I j-just wanted to th-thank you for all the st-stuff you got me! I just s-saw it," You giggle.

Jungkook smiles, "Glad you like it. I had some help picking stuff out, but yeah, I hope it's what you wanted."

"I l-love all of it!"

Jungkook chuckles, "Good."

"Have y-you come up w-w-with a name for your k-kitty yet?"

Jungkook sighs, "No, I haven't. It's so much harder than I thought it would be."

You laugh, "I underst-stand."

The two of you talk about the cats a little longer, then you say shyly, "Hey, J-Jungkook?"

"Yeah?"

"C-Can I take you s-somewhere tomorrow?"

Jungkook can't help the smile that lights up his face, "I'd love that."

You jump up and down, "Yay!"

"Is it a surprise or do I get to know?"

"A s-surprise," You say smugly.

"Ok, I'll trust you," Jungkook chuckles.

"Oh, J-Jimin is calling me, w-we're going to g-get Pumpkin a collar!"

"Nice, you'll have to take a picture of her in it and send it to me."

"I w-will! I'll talk to y-you later, Jungkook."

"Bye, ____."

You both hang up and Jungkook looks over at the black furball and sighs, "Shadow...? No, that doesn't seem right."

He drops his head on the back of the couch, trying to think of something.

Raven?

Kinda cool.

But it doesn't feel like it clicks.

Hmm.

"What do you think of Ash?"

The cat lifts its head to look at him, almost as if he had offended it.

He laughs, "Ok, not Ash."

The cat curls up on his pillow.

The stark contrast of the black cat against the white pillow makes something pop into Jungkook's head.

It looks like yin and yang...

"Hey, what about Yin?"

"mew!"

We have a winner.

____________________________________

Instead of a blaring sound waking him up, Jungkook feels something weird on his stomach as he gets dragged from slumber.

He groans softly and peels his eyes open, looking down to see Yin kneading his abdomen.

"Yin, what are you doing?" Jungkook asks tiredly, "Making bread?"

"mew."

"Well, keep up the good work," Jungkook plops his head back onto his pillow as Yin continues his task. Rubbing his hands over his face, Jungkook sighs tiredly.

Then he suddenly jolts with a laugh, "Hey, that tickles!"

He looks down to see Yin looking at him with huge green eyes.

Jungkook's heart melts a little at the tiny cat as it walks up his chest to sniff at his face.

"Hey, buddy, I'm awake don't worry. I'll get up now."

Jungkook sits up and pets Yin, the action soothing both of them.

"I've got to get your collar today," Jungkook says to the small cat, scratching his chin. You had texted him last night and said that he should meet you at Jimin's at around six o'clock tonight, so he has plenty of time to get stuff done.

First, he takes a shower, Yin mewing outside the shower the entire time.

Then he makes breakfast for himself after feeding Yin.

Lastly, he decides to tidy up the place before he goes out to get the collar and run a few more errands.

"I'll be back in a bit, Yin," Jungkook calls to the sleepy cat that's curled up on his pillow, his designated favorite spot.

He locks the door and starts heading down the stairs��when he sees Hoseok coming up them.

"Hey, Kook!"

"Oh, hi."

He feels a bit awkward running into his neighbor after he completely exposed himself last week. They haven't really talked since.

Hoseok smiles, "I hope you can still be comfortable around me, Jungkook. I haven't told a single soul, and I don't think of you any differently."

Well, that's a relief.

"Uhm, thanks."

Hoseok pats Jungkook on the shoulder, "See you around."

Then he continues to his apartment.

Jungkook shakes his head to clear it, then he jogs down the stairs.

__________________________

"Awwwww, P-Pumpkin you look so cute!" Your hands are on your cheeks as you gush over your adorable kitty in her pretty pink collar and little pink bow you got.

Jimin laughs, "It suits her! She looks like a princess."

"She d-does," You coo, petting her, "I n-need to take a picture to sh-show Jungkook!"

You snap a quick picture, then send it to him.

He replies quickly.

Jungkook: Aww, she's so cute! Looks like a little princess, I love the bow

You show Jimin his reply, your smile almost splitting your cheeks.

Then another message comes through.

Jungkook: Here's Yin in his new collar

You gush over the picture of the cute cat and his name as Jimin laughs beside you, petting Pumpkin.

Jungkook smiles at your enthusiasm over Yin, his chest feeling warm.

"She thinks you're so cute, Yin," He tells the cat, who is now laying on Jungkook's stomach as the young man slouches on the couch. He pets him and scratches behind his ears, "Do I have some competition?"

"mew!"

"Oh no, you don't!" Jungkook laughs, "You can't have her."

"mew."

Jungkook laughs, "You can have Pumpkin."

"mew!"

"Alright buddy, let's get some lunch."

Jungkook cooks up something for himself, then he fills Yin's bowl so that they can eat lunch together.

He's starting to get attached to this little furball.

He's good company.

He finishes lunch and does the dishes as Yin rubs against his ankles, looking up at Jungkook with huge green eyes.

"Knock that off or I'll become soft," Jungkook scolds the cat gently.

___________________________________

"D-Do you think he'll l-like it?" You ask Jimin, bouncing on the balls of your feet in anticipation.

Jimin scoffs playfully, "How could he not? You said he likes to draw, right?"

You nod.

"Then how could he not like going to an art show with the girl he likes?" Jimin pokes you in the side, teasing you.

It works.

Your cheeks flush pink, "I g-guess."

You look at the two tickets in your hand, your heart pounding in your chest.

"It's a little after five, I would start getting ready if I were you. You wanted to get a shower, yeah?" Jimin asks.

You nod and jump up, "I'll b-be quick!"

____________________________________

It's almost time for Jungkook to leave to meet you.

He's pulling on his shoes as Yin rolls around on the ground with the cat toy that Tae picked out for him.

"Alright, buddy. I'm gonna head out," Jungkook walks over and pets the cat, laughing when Yin grabs his hand and nibbles it.

Jungkook wrestles him with one hand for a second before giving him his toy back and heading for the door.

*Bzzzzzt*

Jungkook stops short, just about to lock the door.

He pulls out his vibrating phone to see a name that makes a chill run down his spine.

Someone he hasn't spoken to for a while.

He answers it, "Hello?"

"Hey, are you free right now?"

Jungkook nibbles his bottom lip, "Uh, yeah."

"Good, I have a job for you."

"Hyung-"

"What? You don't want it?"

Jungkook sighs, "It's not that-"

"Oh, you already have one?"

"No..."

"Then what's the problem?"

"There-...isn't one."

He hears the older hitman sigh, "Jungkook, I spoke to her."

"Who?"

"Your mom."

Jungkook's breath hitches.

"I can see she needs help, Jungkook. Even though she told me not to tell you."

"Namjoon Hyung, I-"

"This hit will get you a lot, JK."

"...how much?" Jungkook's voice shakes a little.

"Enough to cover her next two treatments."

Jungkook closes his eyes, his hand coming up to pinch the bridge of his nose.

Shit.

"Where is it?"

"Client is in Seoul, and I think the hit is in Incheon, shouldn't be too hard."

"Ok, I'll do it," Jungkook sighs internally, glancing at his phone to check the time.

He needs to go.

"Hyung, you can send me the details and I'll-"

"They want to meet tonight."

"What?"

"Tonight, at the abandoned construction site. You know the one I'm talking about, right?"

"The one close to the old bridge?"

"Yeah."

"Ok, what time?"

"Closest to six you can make it."

Jungkook tries not to groan.

He takes a few deep breaths to collect himself.

She needs it.

She needs you.

"The client's last name is Beom," Namjoon says.

"Ok, I'm going to let you go so I can get there."

"Sounds good, be careful and let me know how it goes."

Jungkook ends the call, his head hanging as he covers his eyes with one hand.

"Fucking crap."

He sits there for a moment, then he reluctantly calls your number as he makes his way back inside.

You answer just as he crouches to open his safe, "H-Hello?"

He can hear the excitement in your voice.

Fuck.

"Hey..."

"Are y-you okay?" Your voice is laced with worry instantly, making this even harder for him.

"Yeah... actually no, not really."

"J-Jungkook, do you n-need me?"

He sighs, his hand hovering over the gun.

"We d-d-don't have to go out tonight, J-Jungkook," You assure him, "If you j-just need me to b-be with you, I'll come over right n-now."

Shit.

He isn't sure if anything could hurt his heart more at this point.

You would drop anything for him.

He's such a piece of shit.

"Jungkook?" You whisper when he hasn't answered you.

"Sorry, I just-" He grabs the gun and shuts the safe.

Get your shit together, Jeon.

"I can't make it tonight, I'm sorry."

"I underst-stand, do you w-want me to come over?"

"I do... but something came up and I need to leave."

"It isn't y-your mom, is it?" You breathe.

Jungkook's heart clenches in his chest at how caring you are, "Kind of," He whispers.

You feel your heart sink at his words, "I hope sh-she's okay, Jungkook. D-Don't worry a-about tonight. Stay s-safe."

"Thank you," Jungkook chokes out, then he hangs up.

Fuck.

He puts the safe back in his closet and leaves quickly.

_______________________________

"So, he can't make it?" Jimin asks, seeing your frown as you put your phone away.

You look at him with a sad smile, "No, n-not tonight."

Jimin pats your arm, "Are you able to exchange the tickets for a different night?"

You shake your head sadly, "N-No."

He sighs, then he puts his hands on his knees and stands up, "I'll be quick."

"W-Where are you g-going?"

"To get dressed," Jimin says simply.

He disappears up the stairs before you get a chance to say anything else.

A few minutes later, he trots down the stairs in a suit and tie.

Your smile widens as he holds his hand out to you, "Shall we?"

You take it and say goodbye to Pumpkin as the two of you make your way out, just in time to make it to the art show.

___________________________________

Jungkook parks the car in a secluded area that isn't too close to the meeting spot, then he adjusts his black cap, slips his black face mask on and grabs his gun before hopping out of the car and heading towards the abandoned construction site.

He reaches it around fifteen minutes after six.

Stepping inside of the building, Jungkook keeps his eyes peeled.

"Are you here for me?"

Jungkook whips around to see a young woman stepping out from behind a giant piece of concrete.

She's dressed in a short and tight black dress, her eyes covered in smoky makeup and red lipstick highlighting her plush lips. Her long black hair falls over her shoulder as she smirks at him.

"Ohh a young one, I got lucky I guess."

Jungkook stares at her blankly, "Are you Beom?"

Her smirk grows as she steps forward, swaying her hips, "Depends, who wants to know?"

"You know who I am."

"Lotus?"

Jungkook just keeps steady eye contact.

"Damn," She eyes him up and down, "I really did get lucky. You gonna kill a bad guy for me, sweetheart? Such a prince."

Jungkook rolls his eyes, "I'm not interested in your games. I want the information for the hit."

She pouts, her plump red lips even more accentuated.

"You're no fun."

"Yeah, I'm not really the type looking for fun."

Her smirk is back at his words as she steps even closer, reaching a hand out to drag it down his arm, pinching his jacket at the end and tugging on it.

Jungkook resists the urge to lash out.

He needs that money.

"I'll hire you."

Then she walks her fingers up his arm.

"Under one condition."

Jungkook steps away, his skin feeling like it's crawling from her uninvited touch.

"What do you want?" He snaps.

She gives him a sultry look, "I don't get much action these days... So.. Kiss me."

Jungkook barks out a laugh at that.

She looks at him in confusion as he shakes his head.

"Like hell I'm gonna kiss you. I'm not here to play your fucking games, as I said earlier. Tell me the fucking details of the hit or I'm gone," Jungkook growls.

She finally backs off, raising her hands in defense, "Can't blame a girl for trying, especially with someone that looks like you."

Jungkook is fuming.

He did not just miss a fucking date with you to waste his time being played out of a hit by a random girl looking for a hookup.

He'd lose his shit if this was all for nothing.

"Tell me the information," He says darkly.

She sighs, "Fine."

She crosses her arms, "His name is Sang. Sang Do Yoon."

Jungkook tucks it away in the back of his mind.

She turns and struts to a purse lying on the ground that Jungkook didn't see earlier. She grabs a folder out of it and walks back to Jungkook.

Before handing it to him, she stops, "I do have one request though."

Jungkook is about to snap back when she cuts him off, her whole aura changing, "It's nothing like that. This man, he... he killed my sister."

Jungkook freezes at that.

Her eyes get watery as she looks away, "The court said he wasn't guilty. But I saw, I was there. They took his word over mine... he- he took both of our innocence, then he took her life. She was only seventeen years old. I was twenty at the time."

Jungkook's chest tightens.

He tries to keep his emotions in check when it comes to hits. But there are always those ones that get to you, no matter what.

Especially when it involves children.

"I've wanted to kill him myself for seven years, but I can't... my parents have suffered enough, I can't let them live knowing that their only daughter is imprisoned. I only just now got enough money to hire a hitman," She sniffs.

"What's your request?" Jungkook asks as she looks back at him, her eyes getting darker with hatred.

"I want you to make him suffer."

...

"I can do that."

____________________________________

"Ohhhh, l-look at that one, J-Jimin!"

You point at a beautiful oil painting, you and Jimin oohing and ahhing over it before moving on to a sculpture.

You make your way around the art gallery, looking at everything as Jimin follows.

"I'm sorry Jungkook couldn't come," Jimin says as the two of you leave.

You wave it off, "He h-had something v-v-very important come up. I'm j-just sad he m-m-missed it, I th-think he would've liked it."

Jimin nods, "It happens, usually at the worst times too."

You nod, the two of you strolling back to the car.

"Do you want to get dinner?" Jimin asks, "I'm freaking starving and it's almost eight o'clock."

You nod again, "I'm h-hungry too!"

You two end up going to a restaurant that's close enough to walk to.

When you're halfway through dinner, your phone starts to ring.

You pull it out and see Jungkook's contact, so you answer it quickly, "Hello?"

"Hey, ____."

"H-Hey, is e-everyth-thing okay?"

"For now," Jungkook says, then he changes the subject, "I'm really sorry I couldn't make it, I hope I didn't ruin your night."

"Oh n-no! Not at all, J-Jimin went w-with me and n-now we're eating d-dinner."

Jungkook's stomach drops at that.

Not because you're with Jimin.

Just because you're not with him.

He feels guilty as hell for standing you up.

"That's nice," He says after swallowing, "This sounds weird, but can I meet up with you guys? I want to say goodbye, I need to go somewhere for a little bit."

Your heart twangs at his words, but you respond enthusiastically anyway, "Of c-course!" You tell him the name of the restaurant, then you two hang up.

Jimin looks at you curiously.

You bite your lip, "He n-needs to leave, s-so he's stopping by to say g-goodbye."

"Oh," Jimin watches your smile drop more as you pick at your food.

It doesn't take long for Jungkook to show up.

Jimin sees him first since he's facing the door of the restaurant, so he waves him over.

Jungkook makes his way to the table, his heart stuttering in his chest when you turn and see him, your whole face lighting up.

You're dressed in a loose beige pencil skirt, a long-sleeved white button-down, and a beige sweater over it.

Jungkook smiles when you make eye contact.

"Hey," He says as he comes up to the table.

"Hello!" Jimin says kindly.

Jungkook smiles at him, "Hi, Jimin. Thanks for taking her out," Then he turns to you, "I'm really sorry, ____."

You wave him off, "D-Don't be s-silly, we'll d-do a raincheck."

He nods, "Alright."

Jimin gestures at Jungkook's dark outfit, the cap and all being black.

"What are you doing? Gathering reconaissance for the Queen of England?"

Jungkook chuckles, "I wish. Nah, just need to do laundry, this is all I had."

You giggle at that, warming his heart.

"____, can I talk to you outside for a minute?"

You nod and tell Jimin you'll be back in a minute.

Jungkook and Jimin bid their goodbyes before you follow Jungkook outside.

You two stand to the side so as not to stop the sidewalk traffic.

You look at him with huge, worried eyes, "Are y-you okay?"

Jungkook nods after a second, "I'm fine, I just need to do something in Incheon for my mom."

You nod in understanding, "How l-long will you b-be gone?"

"About a week," Jungkook says solemnly.

You frown, "Oh... do y-you need me to t-t-take care of Yin?"

He smiles softly at you, you're always thinking of others, "Thank you, but Hoseok is actually going to take care of him for me, I already asked him."

You smile, "Ok."

You two stand there in comfortable silence for a minute, just gazing at each other.

Eventually, your butterflies get too intense and you need to look away.

Jungkook chuckles softly, then you feel his hand slipping into yours and you look back at him.

"I'm sorry I keep leaving," He says with a frown.

You shake your head but Jungkook speaks up before you can, "No, I really am. There is a reason for me to apologize, as much as you want to say there isn't. You're always thinking of others before yourself and I feel like I'm constantly letting you down, and I'm sorry about that."

Your small smile makes his heart feel tight, "I understand th-that you're b-busy."

He wants to tell you.

He wants to tell you everything.

But he can't.

Jungkook sighs then glances at his phone to see the time.

"I should be going, I need to drive to Incheon tonight."

You nod, smiling at him.

Jungkook leans down and presses a gentle kiss to your cheek, "Call me if anything at all happens, no matter what it is, and please stay around Jimin as much as you can. I'll see you soon, okay?"

You take him by surprise when you wrap your arms around him and hug him swiftly before pulling away.

"Ok," You say cutely.

He wants to kiss you.

But he doesn't let himself.

He takes a step back, then gestures for you to go back inside.

You wave to him cutely as you walk back in.

You keep turning around and waving at him, even when you're in the restaurant and can only see him through the window.

He smiles and waves back until you sit down with Jimin again.

Then he turns and forces himself to make his way back to his car.

________________________________

Jungkook sighs as he speeds up, his hands gripping the wheel tightly.

He hates leaving you.

He already hates leaving you, but now with the seizures and him not knowing who placed the hit on you and what the hell they're doing, his anxiety has tripled.

Maybe Namjoon can help...

Jungkook feels a lift in his chest as the idea comes to him.

Namjoon can track anyone.

Why the fuck didn't he think of this earlier??

Hell!

He'll just call Namjoon when he gets to the hotel and ask him to help him.

Jungkook has so many plans and ideas and worries running through his brain that he's surprised he's even been able to concentrate on driving at all.

But he makes it to the hotel safely regardless.

Once he's inside his room, Jungkook drops his backpack on the floor by the door and grabs the folder out of it, tossing it on his bed before dialing Namjoon.

It rings a few times, then Jungkook hears a deep voice answer.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Hyung."

"Jungkook, how did it go?"

"It went well, I've got the info and I'm in Incheon already."

"Damn, you're ready to go."

"Yeah well, I want it over with... Anyway, I have a favor to ask."

He hears people talking on the other side of the phone, so he knows Namjoon must not be alone.

"Sure, what can I help with?"

Jungkook nibbles on his lower lip, "I need you to find someone for me."

"I can do that."

The confidence oozing off of the older hitman is reassuring.

"I need you to find an anonymous client-"

"Hold up, kid-" Namjoon interrupts him, "Hey, shut the hell up! I'm on the fucking phone, dimwits!"

Jungkook hears a deep sigh before Namjoon is back on the line, "Sorry, say that again?"

"I need you to find an anon-"

"Hold on-"

Jungkook hears more yelling before Namjoon gets back on, "Sorry kid, but I've gotta go. Can this wait?"

"Not really-"

"Well, it's gonna have to. Call me next week, okay? I've got stuff to figure out over here."

Jungkook sighs, "Hyung, I can't afford to wait until next we-"

"Well, I don't know what to tell you. Look, I've got to go, good luck with the hit and call me next week, k? Bye, kid."

The line cuts before Jungkook can utter another word.

He growls and tosses his phone on the bed.

Damn it.

Well, at least he has somewhat of a plan.

That's more than he's had this entire fucking time.

Jungkook flops onto his bed, closing his eyes.

A few moments later, his eyes pop open and he looks over at the folder.

He snatches it and opens it up.

Sang Do Yoon, 41 years old.

Living in Incheon, South Korea.

Jungkook looks at the pictures of the bastard, his blood boiling.

The fucker is living his life without a care in the world, like he didn't ruin someone's life and take another.

Jungkook stares at the ceiling of the hotel room.

"I want you to make him suffer."

"I can do that."

He sighs and sits up, stretching his aching limbs.

Shit, he's exhausted.

Jungkook strips down to his boxers, then he turns out the light and crawls under the covers.

He lays in the darkness for a bit, his mind turning over all the plans.

He's never going to get to sleep with his brain going around and around like this.

When he finally closes his eyes, he sees your face.

A small smile graces his features as he breathes deeply, your adorable face penetrating every worry in his mind.

You giggle at something then you take his hand and lead him somewhere.

Jungkook doesn't even realize that he's dreaming.

It feels so lifelike.

You pull him along behind you, laughing and calling him a slowpoke.

Then you flop onto your back in a field of flowers that you led him to.

Jungkook lies next to you, looking up at the sky as he feels the warm sun on his skin, the breeze tickling his cheeks, the grass a soft touch under him.

You're holding his hand, a familiar soft feeling.

Jungkook turns his head, and he sees you smiling at him, your eyes squinted and nose scrunched up.

Wait.

He sees you...?

He sees you.

Jungkook jolts up in bed, his breath caught in his throat.

He coughs for a second, trying to get a breath in.

The light streaming through the window makes him squint.

Shit.

He doesn't remember falling asleep.

Jungkook drops his head in his hands tiredly, then the dream comes rushing back into his brain.

It was you.

It was you the whole time.

When he couldn't see you.

You both had the same dream.

It really was you.

Jungkook swallows thickly, not quite sure what to do with this information.

He drops his head back into his hands and groans.

This is too much.

It's all too much.

He was never supposed to fall for you.

He never wanted to fall for you in the beginning.

He promised he wouldn't.

You're too good for him.

Jungkook sighs shakily, knowing that he's too far in it to get out now.

Not that he wants out.

He's too selfish to get out now.

Then his mind takes a different turn.

Why did you tell him not to fall for you?

Why did you say that?

Was it because you feel like you don't deserve him?

That thought alone is preposterous.

He's the one that doesn't deserve you.

But why would you say that when you didn't know him that well at the time anyway?

Hm.

Jungkook rubs at his eyes.

He needs to concentrate.

Focus on the hit so he can get back to you as soon as possible.

_______________________________________

The week feels like it crawls by for all of you.

You're just going to work and avoiding Mr. Baek as much as you can. He hasn't approached you since that day that Jungkook stopped him, but he still gives you nasty looks when you make eye contact.

Jimin is doing his delivery job alongside working on an article, so he's pretty busy most of the time too.

Jungkook spends the week tracking the target and devising the perfect plan based on his findings.

He should be done with this by Friday, back in Seoul late Friday night.

Jungkook lays on his bed, staring into the darkness as he contemplates whether he ought to call you or not.

He can't sleep and it's driving him crazy.

He's always had a hard time sleeping the day before a hit, and he never eats right before one either.

It's weird.

Jungkook shifts onto his left side with a heavy sigh.

Fuck it.

He rolls over to grab his phone off the nightstand.

Jungkook: Hey, are you awake?

You smile at the text as you're curled up on the couch, the covers pulled up to your chin.

yes i am! can i call you?

Jungkook: Yes :)

Your smile grows and you press the button to call him.

You feel like you haven't spoken to him in forever.

The two of you have texted a few times, just asking how the other was doing, but you were both so busy that you never really had time for a real conversation.

"Hello?"

His deep tired voice makes your knees weak.

Good thing you're laying down.

"H-Hi," You whisper, not wanting to wake up Jimin, even though he's all the way upstairs.

Jungkook smiles at the sound of your voice, "How was your day?"

"Pr-Pretty okay, m-me and the k-kids learned a new nu-nursery rhyme."

"Sounds like fun," Jungkook says genuinely, "Maybe you can teach it to me sometime."

You laugh lightly at that, "Yeah, th-that would be f-f-fun."

Jungkook hums.

"W-What did you d-do today?" You ask.

"Not much, really. Just walked around a bit. I should be coming home tomorrow night if everything works out."

"Ohh, yay," You whisper, making his heart melt.

"Can I see you on Saturday?" Jungkook asks tentatively.

"I w-would love it."

"Alright, then it's settled."

"Yay," You cheer quietly.

Jungkook chuckles, "You're cute."

"No," You say shyly, "I'm n-not."

"You really are though."

You touch a hand to your warm cheek, "Th-Thank you," You whisper, barely audible.

He smiles, "Anytime."

It's silent for a minute, then you hear Jungkook sigh.

"I can't sleep," He confesses.

"Aw," You frown, "Is th-there any way I can h-help you?"

"Mm, sing to me," Jungkook suggests.

"Ohhh, no. N-No, I can't s-sing," You say quickly.

Jungkook chuckles, "I doubt that, but I won't push you."

"Anyth-thing else I can d-do?"

"Tell me a story?" He whispers.

You smile, "Now th-that, I can do."

Jungkook gets into a comfortable position as you let him know that you're going to tell him one of your favorite stories. Then he puts you on speakerphone and sets the phone next to his head.

"Ok, I'm ready," You hear him say softly.

You start telling him the story of the Velveteen Rabbit, one of your absolute favorites that your mother used to read to you when you were little.

You ask him if he's ever heard it before and he says he hasn't.

He doesn't mention that his mother was never really able to get books to read to him when he was small. She was too sick, for as long as he can remember.

Most of the stories he heard in his childhood were told to him by Tae when they would sneak away from his father and run away to the field. He would retell them to himself whenever he was locked in the wardrobe and was having a hard time pretending to be a butterfly.

As you tell the story, Jungkook feels like he can relate to this little stuffed bunny, a lot.

A little way through, you hear Jungkook mumble tiredly, "This story is so sad."

You smile, "Don't w-worry, w-wait till the end."

He tries to, he really does.

But your voice lulls him into a deeper sleep than he's had for a while.

He doesn't hear the end.

He falls asleep wondering if the Velveteen Rabbit ever got his happy ending.

_____________________________

"Oh!"

Jimin jumps at your exclamation of surprise, "What's wrong?"

"Oh, n-nothing," You say, then you hold up your phone to show him a text, "M-Mina says she's c-coming back today!"

"Mina?...Oh!" Jimin's eyes widen in realization, "She was your best friend in high school wasn't she?"

You nod happily.

"So, you're still best friends?"

You nod again, but freeze when Jimin pouts.

"W-What's wrong?"

"I thought I was your best friend, darn it."

You laugh, "J-Jimin, you are m-my best friend! I c-can have more th-than one best friend!"

Jimin shrugs pettily, making you laugh at his silly antics.

"Well, either way. Is she wanting to hang out?"

You look at the text that just comes in, "Y-Yeah, she wants to-to take me t-to get coffee."

Jimin crosses his arms, "Well, ok. Leave me, then."

You frown, "J-Jimin-"

He immediately backpedals when he sees your teary eyes.

"Whoa, wait, no. I was kidding, ____! I was kidding!"

Your lips tremble and Jimin squishes your face, "Don't be sad, I was joking around. I have something to do today anyway. I'm meeting with someone to get some information on the article."

You finally stop pouting, much to his relief.

You wipe at your eyes, "Oh, w-well I hope you get s-something good."

Jimin laughs, "Me too. When is she going to come get you?"

You ask her and, in a few moments, you get a reply.

"In a-about half an h-hour."

"Oh that's perfect, that's when I need to leave for my meeting anyway. Let's get ready to go."

Jimin goes upstairs and you go to the downstairs bathroom to get ready.

Half an hour later, Mina texts you that she's outside; you gave her Jimin's address like he told you to.

Jimin walks out with you as he's leaving.

He waves at Mina, who smiles and waves back from inside her car.

You say goodbye to Jimin before hopping into Mina's car.

"Hey, girl!" Mina exclaims, "I've missed you!"

"I m-missed you t-too!"

She reaches over the console to hug you tightly, "So, why have you been staying at Jimin's?" She asks as she pulls away from the condo.

"Oh just- I d-didn't f-feel safe at home..."

Mina looks at you in confusion, "Why not? Did something happen?"

"N-Not really, just- anxiety...?"

Mina nods but doesn't look too convinced, "Ok, well I'm home now! I can stay with you at your place if you'd like?"

"M-Maybe."

You pull out your phone and send a quick text to Jungkook as Mina makes a right turn.

mina is home. she said she can stay with me at home...

Then you slip your phone into your pocket as you and Mina start catching up.

"So, is Jungkook still in the picture, or is it Jimin now?" She asks, wiggling her brows, "I was shocked when you told me you were staying at his place!"

You laugh nervously, "Y-Yeah, Jimin and I are j-just friends."

"Bummer," Mina pouts.

You sigh and look out the window.

Not long after, Mina parks on the side of the street so you two can walk to the coffee shop.

Mina orders a cappuccino, and you get a mocha frappe. Grabbing your drinks, you walk over to a table and take a seat.

It's awkward for a minute while you sip your drinks, then you set your cup down and look at Mina, "So, w-where did y-you go?"

Mina sets her own cup down, "I went to help a friend in Daegu."

"Oh."

Mina never said anything about having other friends besides you, but you guess that was your fault for assuming.

"What have you been up to while I was gone?"

"N-Nothing really, I st-started work again."

"Oh yeah, how is that?"

"Good."

Mina looks around the cafe.

There's an awkward silence between the two of you and you hate it.

What happened between you?

When did it become like this?

"You never answered my previous question."

"Hm? W-What was it?"

"Is Jungkook still in the picture?"

You hesitate, then you nod, watching her reaction.

But she doesn't flinch.

"Uhm, y-yeah he's uh- he's st-still in the picture."

"I figured," She takes a sip, "I'm sorry."

"Huh?"

"I'm sorry for being a brat when it comes to him. I just didn't want him to hurt you."

You smile sadly, "He w-won't hurt me-"

"How can you say that when he's supposed t-"

You watch her as she clamps her mouth shut.

What is she saying?

"W-What?"

"I meant- how can you say that when he's already hurt you?"

"I've h-hurt him too. W-We made up, M-Mina, we're only human."

She nods, not looking you in the eye as she takes another drink.

"You're b-being weird," You say quietly.

Mina finally looks you in the eye, "Sorry, there's just been a lot on my mind lately."

"Wanna t-talk about it?"

She shakes her head, "I'm fine, really."

"Ok."

Mina asks you about the kids, so you talk about that for a while.

Then you suddenly have to pee, so you excuse yourself and go to the bathroom.

Mina sips her coffee as she looks around the shop.

Then her eyes land on your cellphone.

You must have forgotten it.

She hesitates for only a second, then she reaches over and snatches it.

She unlocks it easily since you both always share your passwords with each other.

A message from Jungkook pops up.

Her eyes narrow and she clicks on it.

Jungkook: I think you should stay at Jimin's, ____.

Jungkook: Just until I can figure stuff out :)

Her eyes narrow further, and she holds her finger on the message until an option comes up to copy it or delete it.

She deletes both of his messages, then she goes through a few more things before locking your phone and setting it back where it was.

A few minutes later, you come out from the bathroom, skipping and bouncing your way to the table. You immediately grab your phone and look at it.

Mina holds her breath when you frown.

"What's wrong?"

You look up at her, "Oh, n-nothing. I was just exp-pecting a text."

She bites her lip and nods, "Well, have you decided?"

You cock your head, "D-Decided what?"

"I can stay with you at home, I really don't mind."

"Oh...I-"

"Please, ____? I've missed you a lot," Mina frowns, "I really wanted to spend time with you."

It's silent for a moment, then she sighs, "Ok, stay at Jimin's, I just thought you wanted to have girl time too-"

"N-No, I do!"

You wring your hands under the table.

Why hasn't Jungkook answered you?

If you have Mina with you, maybe you'll be okay?

Mina looks at you sadly, making you crumble inside.

You've always been weak when it comes to peer pressure. You can never say no, it makes you ill with guilt.

And she knows that.

"Ok," You say weakly.

Mina brightens instantly, "Cool! When are you coming home then?"

"Uhm...I'll c-come back on Su-Sunday."

"Sounds good to me!"

You look down at your mocha frappe, watching the whipped cream slowly melt as your tummy turns.

Why won't you answer, Jungkook?

____________________________________________

Jungkook sighs and tosses his phone to the side.

Of course she’s back, and of course she's trying to get you to go home.

At least you reached out to him, and you know it isn't a good idea to go home right now.

He never thought he'd think this, but he's grateful for Jimin.

He can't wait to be done with this hit so he can go back to you. He misses your touch, he's missed it since you walked back into that restaurant earlier this week.

Shit, he's down hard.

He's never felt like this and it's honestly scary.

Every time he closes his eyes to sleep, you're there in his mind.

It seems like every other thought in his brain is about you.

Are you okay?

Did you have a good day?

Are you sleeping well?

Did you eat today?

How is work treating you?

Did you get to smile and laugh today?

His brain is constantly filled with you.

And honestly, he's not mad at it.

That's the scary part.

Jungkook rubs his eyes tiredly.

Just one more day, Jungkook.

Then you need to find out who is behind all this.

Night has finally fallen as Jungkook gets dressed in his standard black pants, shirt, jacket, cap, and mask. He counts the bullets in his gun, then he makes sure it's on safety before putting it in the holster at the back of his pants. He walks over to his backpack and pulls out a small vial, holding it up and looking at it.

He slips it into his pocket.

One and done, Jungkook.

In and out.

She needs you to do this.

It'll pay for the next two treatments.

Jungkook sighs as an image of you flashes in his mind and he can't help but wonder what you would think of him if you knew who he was.

Who he is.

Jungkook shakes his head to clear it, then he grabs his car keys and heads out.

It isn't too long of a drive from the hotel, maybe about fifteen minutes.

Just enough time for him to hype himself up.

Jungkook parks in a secluded area, then he hops out and heads toward the building.

He punches in the number quickly, opening the gate and slipping in.

He makes his way to the main doors, walking in like he owns the place and finding the elevator easily. He already tracked him throughout the entire week, he's got this whole place mapped out in his head.

Jungkook goes to the tenth floor, bowing to an old woman that hobbles past him as he makes his way to the end of the hall.

An electronic keypad on the side of the door blinks with a blue light.

2227777827773

He presses in the numbers, and the light turns green as a click sounds.

Jungkook presses on the door, and it swings open silently before he steps inside.

He shuts the door behind him and listens to the lock click in place as a smirk spreads on his face.

The sound of the TV drowns out his footsteps as he walks through the apartment.

Jungkook turns the corner to the living area and sees a man sitting there, watching the news, his back turned to him.

He scoffs and pulls some surgical gloves on, watching in amusement as the man doesn't hear him at all, the TV too loud for him to hear anything.

When Jungkook has the gloves on, he pulls out his gun and unceremoniously walks in front of the TV, raising the gun to point it at the man's head.

The man freezes, his eyes wide with terror.

"W-Who the hell are you?"

"I want you to leave that TV on, stand the fuck up, and go to the room."

Mr. Sang doesn't even fight it, he just stands up and slowly moves to the bedroom as Jungkook follows closely behind, his gun pressed to the man's back.

When he stops for a second, Jungkook jabs him in the back with the gun and snaps, "Move."

They make it to the room and Jungkook tells him to sit in the chair by his bed.

He does so.

"Who are you and what do you want?" The man tries again.

Jungkook scoffs, "Who am I? I'm your worst fucking nightmare, asshole."

The man furrows his brows in confusion, "If it's money you want, you can have it. I'll give you the code to my safe-"

"I don't want your fucking money," Jungkook spits.

"What do you want then?"

"I want the money someone is going to give me for your murder."

The man's eyes widen as Jungkook chuckles darkly.

"W-What?" His voice shakes uncontrollably.

Jungkook twirls the gun around, looking at it like it's a piece of art.

"So, how do you want to go? A shot to the head? Maybe you want to be stabbed to death? I wonder if you have anything in this apartment I could bash your fucking skull in with."

The man is shaking now as Jungkook looks back at him, insanity glazing the young hitman's eyes.

"Mm, no. I think that's all too easy. You don't deserve to go so quickly, do you?"

"I don't understand," His voice trembles, "What did I do? Why would someone want to kill me?"

"Think," Jungkook whispers, "Think really fucking hard."

It's silent for a minute, then Jungkook steps forward, his eyes darkening.

"Does the name Aera ring a bell?"

The man shakes his head, "N-No, I don't know who that is."

Jungkook barks out a laugh, "Wrong answer. You just made me even angrier, you fucking bastard," He steps forward and presses the gun to Mr. Sang's forehead.

"So, you're telling me that you just go around and rape and kill enough girls to forget all of their names?"

Something flashes in the man's eyes.

Recognition.

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Yes, you do," He presses the gun harder, making the man grunt.

"Are you going to kill me or not?" He glares at Jungkook.

"Oh yeah, I'm gonna fucking kill you. But not like this."

Jungkook steps back and pulls the vial out of his pocket, dangling it in front of the terrified man's face. Then he grabs the man's hand and forces the vial into it.

"Drink it," He whispers.

The man shakes his head.

Jungkook chuckles, "I didn't think you'd do it so easily," He snatches the vial back.

Then he slips the gun into his holster before grabbing the man's face, pinching his cheeks harshly.

"You're going to fucking drink this and you're going to suffer, just like those girls did."

"Mmfmam."

"Huh? What was that?" Jungkook pinches harder.

"Mmmfh!"

Jungkook smiles darkly, "Don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to think back and see if you can remember the faces of those you hurt. This will take quite a bit to work, so we've got a while."

The man's eyes widen more as Jungkook pries his mouth open.

"Drink up, fucker."

Jungkook drops Sang's limp body onto the couch, arranging him so that it looks like he was watching the news when he went into cardiac arrest.

That's all it will look like.

Then he steps back and observes the body of his newest hit.

Suddenly, Jungkook hears your voice in his head, telling the story of the Velveteen Rabbit, and he wonders once more if the stuffed bunny got a happy ending.

Jungkook swallows, his eyes locked on the dead man in front of him.

Then images of the hundreds of hits he's done go flashing through his brain as his breath catches in his throat.

Will I ever get a happy ending?

Do I deserve one?

_______________________________

"How did it go?"

"G-Good," You mumble.

Jimin gives you a funny look but lets it go for now. Maybe you'll talk about it later.

"Sorry, I'm j-just tired," You say quietly.

Jimin nods, "I get that. I am too... Are you hungry?"

You nod with a tired smile on your face.

"Me too, should we order something?"

"Y-Yes!"

You and Jimin stuff your faces with jjajangmyeon as you both cry over the end of a drama you both have been binge-watching since you've been here.

"I can't believe they pulled that shit," Jimin howls, wiping his eyes.

"Th-That was so m-mean!" You sob into your hands.

It takes a while, but eventually, the two of you are lying on each side of the couch, numb and tear stained.

You sniffle, "I w-want ice cream."

Jimin nods, wiping his nose, "We have some chocolate, that work?"

You nod and Jimin hurries to the kitchen to get you both a bowl of chocolate ice cream.

"Th-Thank you," You say when he hands you yours.

Jimin sits next to you and shovels it into his mouth, "That was seriously messed up."

"I know," You sniffle again, "S-So unc-called for."

After a few moments of talking about it, you and Jimin burst into tears again.

Now you're both sobbing as you continue to stuff your mouths with ice cream.

Then your phone ringing rips through the sounds of your torment.

You grab it and see Jungkook's name on the screen.

"H-H-Hello?"

"____? Why on earth are you crying?"

"S-S-S-Sad dr-drama," You sob, trying to hold it together.

Jungkook tsks, "Why do you girls do that to yourselves?"

"J-Jimin did it too!" You say accusingly.

Jungkook laughs, "You're silly."

Another sob rips from your throat when you think about the ending again.

Jungkook bites back another laugh, "I'm sorry you're sad, bad endings are the worst."

"It's ok-okay," You say tearfully, "Are y-you okay?"

"I'm alright, sorry for calling so late. I just wanted to let you know I'm going to be on the way home in a minute."

"Oh, yay," You say in a tiny voice, wiping your tears, "Dr-Drive safe, okay?"

"I will," Jungkook says fondly, "I'll let you go cry with Jimin, ok? I'm gonna start driving. Call me if anything happens, alright?"

"I wi-will."

You both hang up then you look over at Jimin to see him staring at the TV, his lips trembling.

He turns to look at you, his eyes brimming with tears.

That's enough to get you both sobbing hysterically again.

_________________________________

Jungkook gives the front desk his keycard, then thanks them as he makes his way out.

He gets in the car, tossing his backpack into the passenger seat and buckling up.

Then he's on his way.

He doesn't play any music on the way back, wanting to be sure he can hear the phone if you call him.

It's a very uneventful forty-five minutes back to Seoul and Jungkook is exhausted by the time he gets back.

He drags himself up the stairs, wondering to himself if he ought to get Yin from Hoseok's apartment now, or if he should get him tomorrow. He isn't sure if his neighbor is up right now.

Jungkook decides to text him that he's home, if he doesn't see it until tomorrow, then that's fine.

He unlocks his door and stumbles into his apartment, exhaustion sweeping over him.

It's been a long fucking week.

As Jungkook is pulling his shoes off, there's a knock on the door.

He turns and opens the door to see Hoseok smiling brightly with Yin in his arms.

"Hey, I got your text."

"I didn't wake you, did I?" Jungkook asks as Hoseok hands him the small black cat.

Hoseok shakes his head, "Nope! Sana, Yin, and I were up late watching a movie."

Jungkook smiles as Yin sniffs his face and meows like crazy.

"I'm sorry for interrupting your movie. Thank you for watching him for me."

Hoseok nods, "Anytime! We love the Lil guy, he's welcome to stay with us whenever."

They say goodnight and Jungkook shuts the door as Hoseok goes back to his apartment.

"mew!"

"I missed you too, buddy," Jungkook pets Yin's head before setting him down, "Let's go to bed, I'm fucking worn out."

As if understanding his words, Yin runs to the bed and hops up on it as Jungkook strips and climbs into bed, sighing tiredly.

He's out like a light before he even has a chance to mentally go through the day.

_____________________________

"Do you think I care what happens to you?"

Jungkook shakes his head, flinching when his father raises his hand.

Mr. Jeon laughs at the boy's gut reaction.

"That's right, I don't give a fuck. Why am I pissed then?" He asks calmly, which is almost more terrifying.

Jungkook doesn't answer right away, unsure what to say.

That was a mistake.

He gets a rough slap, causing him to shrink back more.

"Answer me...why the fuck am I pissed that you were out after dark?"

Jungkook holds his stinging cheek, "Uhm, because- b-because Mrs. Ch-Cheng brought me home?"

The big man raises his hand again and Jungkook flinches.

"Be more specific."

"It m-made you l-l-look bad?"

Jungkook winces when his father grabs a handful of his hair and yanks, "That's fucking right, boy. Next time you decide to sneak off and play with that fucking Taehyung kid and stay out till dark, you better fucking hope you get killed by a stranger. It'll be more pleasant than what I have planned for you."

Jungkook nods fearfully, holding back a sob when his hair is released and he's pushed to the ground.

"How old are you turning tomorrow?"

Jungkook's stomach turns at the question.

He knows what's coming.

"Eight."

*Slap!*

Tears spring to his eyes as he tries to think of what he said wrong.

"Try it again."

Oh.

"Eight, sir."

"Better. And what are we doing tomorrow?"

"Uhm, v-visiting Mama?"

The man chuckles darkly, "Aw, you wish don't you?"

Huh?

But they always visit his mother whenever she has to be at the hospital on his birthday.

His father bursts out in laughter at the look on his son's face, "Your mother has a treatment scheduled for tomorrow. She can't see you until the day after."

Jungkook's heart sinks at not getting to see his mother on his birthday.

"So, you get to be with me all day," He singsongs, crouching to look closer at the boy, "I don't think eight is enough, what do you think? Is that enough after what happened today?"

Jungkook shakes his head, "No, sir."

"Why is that?"

Jungkook swallows, "Because I was bad...sir."

Mr. Jeon stands up and walks over to the wardrobe of the spare room they're in.

The same one Jungkook spends many of his days.

He pulls something out of it and turns back to Jungkook, running the switch through his hand and looking at it like it's the most beautiful thing he's ever seen.

"Eight for the soon-to-be birthday boy, five more for making me look like a dumbass in front of the neighbor, and three more for your poor responses...how does that sound?"

Jungkook nods, his whole body trembling, "Y-Yes, sir."

A smirk spreads on his father's face.

_______________________________

Jungkook's eyes open slowly and he groans as he stretches his arms and legs.

"mew!"

He startles at the sound, shooting up to see Yin nowhere in sight.

"Yin?"

The cat jumps up on the bed and looks at Jungkook like he offended him in some way.

That's when Jungkook realizes he must have kicked the cat off the bed when he was stretching.

"Sorry, Yin, sometimes I forget how long my legs are...did I hurt you?"

"meow."

Yin comes over and rubs his head under Jungkook's chin, making the young man laugh, "I'm glad you forgive me."

Jungkook pets his furry little roommate for a few minutes as he wakes up fully.

"Alright, Yin. We need to get up and get some food."

The cat follows him to the kitchen as he gets both of their food ready.

They eat together in silence.

Just as he's finishing up, Jungkook looks at Yin, who is still scarfing down his food, "What do you think I should do for her today?" He asks, chewing thoughtfully.

*cronch* *cronch* *cronch*

Jungkook nods, "Yeah, I can't think of anything either."

He finishes up breakfast, still racking his brain as he washes the dishes.

He's already taken you out for food several times, which is something that you enjoy. But he wants to do something different.

Something really special.

Why?

He has no idea.

Jungkook puts away the last dish, then he leans on the counter and sighs.

Why is this so hard to do?

He's never had to come up with date ideas before now.

Date...

That word makes his stomach feel weird.

No.

Not a date.

A...hangout?

Jungkook smacks a hand to his forehead.

Why is he such a fucking dweeb?

He can't believe you actually like him.

Jungkook sighs deeply.

He knows you really don't care what the two of you do, as long as you're together, and he feels the same way, but he wants it to be special.

Because he doesn't want you to get bored of him...

No.

No, no, no.

He's tired of exposing himself, even to his own self.

Jungkook decides to focus on doing a deep clean of the apartment before you come over, maybe he'll think of something as he cleans.

He starts with the kitchen, cleaning and organizing everything he can get his hands on. It's not like you're going to go through his cupboards and inspect them, but he can't help it.

He's about to move on to the living area when he hears his phone make a sound.

Jungkook grabs it to see a message from you.

(duck emoji): good morning, koo!

His heart does not melt into a little puddle.

No, it doesn't.

Good morning :) did you sleep well after that good cry you had?

It takes a minute for your reply to come through.

(duck emoji) yes haha! slept like a baby.

Good :)

Maybe those dramas you obsess over can come in handy sometimes.

He laughs at your next message as he flops onto his bed.

(duck emoji) you're joking now, but they're actually really cute ;-; and so romantic T-T

That brings a thought to him.

Wait a second.

Maybe he can get an idea from...?

No, no, no! That would be ridiculous.

But...

The internet has to be good for something...

Oh, I bet they are ;) who knows, maybe I'll agree to watch one with you someday.

Jungkook clicks out of the messages and goes to his browser.

Date ideas

A ton of things pop up, overwhelming the poor boy as he scrolls through it all.

He decides to go with the top link, where it has a list of the top ten most romantic date ideas.

That word.

Romantic.

Ick.

He doesn't like it.

But he needs some ideas.

Jungkook clicks on it, waiting for it to load, then immediately cringing when a picture of a couple kissing on a beach in the sunset comes up.

Ick.

He scrolls down to the list.

1: Write each other love letters

Jungkook scrolls right past it.

Starting off real fucking cozy, aren't we?

2: Go out dancing

No.

3: Read each other romance novels

Abso-fucking-loutely not.

4: Go on a picnic

Meh, that's nice, but he needs something really good.

5: Watch a romcom

Please no.

6: Taste some cheese

What the crap. What the hell does that even mean?

Out of pure curiosity, Jungkook decides to read that one's description.

Oh.

It's just about going to some fancy shops and taste testing different fancy cheeses.

Lame.

7: A walk on the beach

Too cliche.

8: Do couple's yoga

Ok, fuck no.

9: Create a new recipe

Wait a minute.

Jungkook stares at that one for a second, his brain turning.

Hmm, that could actually work.

He decides to look at the last one just for the heck of it.

10: Paint on each other

Mmmmm, k that sounds fucking weird as hell.

No thank you.

Jungkook thanks whoever may be listening that there was one good idea, one that he can actually get on board with and he thinks you'll really enjoy it too.

In perfect timing, a message from you pops up just as he's exiting out of the page.

His heart stops for a second, thinking you knew what he was doing.

Ha.

Haha.

Stop being a dweeb.

Jungkook clicks on your message.

(duck emoji): oh my gosh yes ;-; please watch one with me?

Jungkook laughs and shakes his head.

No one would be able to sit his ass down to watch a cheesy romance drama.

Well, no one except you that is.

Jungkook sighs.

Ok, but please don't pick a cringy one.

(duck emoji): deal! by the way, when am i supposed to come over today?

Jungkook thinks for a moment.

Are you okay if I come to get you at like 3?

(duck emoji): yes<3

He smiles, texts you that he'll see you then, then he gets back to work cleaning up.

He tosses the pillow and blanket Tae uses in the wash, having forgotten to earlier this week. He left in such a rush that he didn't really do anything much.

Yin follows him around as he tidies up, but eventually gets bored and goes to sleep on his pillow.

Jungkook smiles fondly at the curled up and sleeping cat for a minute, then he snaps out of it and finishes up the living area.

"Okay, Yin, I need to make the bed."

The cat makes no move to get out of the way.

Jungkook sighs and picks up the pillow with the cat on it, still sleeping peacefully as his owner gently places the pillow on the couch.

He fixes up the bed, then he carries the pillow back and places it on the bed, Yin still fast asleep.

Jungkook stands back to observe his work as a whole.

Hmm.

What's missing?

Ah!

Jungkook grabs an air freshener that's been sitting in the closet for a while now. He kept forgetting to use it.

He plugs it into the wall, then steps back in satisfaction.

Nice.

Then he straightens up the bathroom really quick.

When he's finally done, he looks at the clock and groans when he sees it's only twelve-thirty.

He still has to wait like two and a half hours before getting you...

"Yin."

The cat finally lifts its head to look at him sleepily.

"I'm going to get some lunch, I'll be back in a bit, ok?"

The cat stares at him.

"mew."

Jungkook pulls his shoes on, grabs his keys and wallet, then he's out the door after waving to his little roommate one last time.

"Hey, Jungkook!"

Jungkook turns to see Sana locking Hoseok's door.

"Oh, hi Sana."

She walks next to him as they both head toward the stairs.

"How are you doing?" She asks kindly.

Jungkook shrugs, "I'm fine, how are you?"

"I'm great! I'm actually planning a surprise for Hoseok!"

Jungkook stops short, "Is it his birthday?"

Sana laughs and shakes her head, much to his relief, "No, his birthday is in February. It's coming up on our anniversary though!"

"Oh," Jungkook continues walking next to her, "Congratulations."

"Thank you," She says with a smile, "And how is ____?"

"She's doing alright, thank you. I'm actually going to pick her up a little later."

"Oh, I'm so glad!" Sana practically beams.

She looks kind of like a girl version of Hoseok when she smiles.

"I heard you guys fight the other week, I was really worried."

"Oh."

"Sorry, I don't mean to pry. I'm just happy everything is okay now."

"Yeah, me too."

They reach the bottom of the stairs and Sana claps Jungkook on the shoulder, "I hope you have fun today! Wish me luck, it's always hard to surprise Hoseok, he's too good at figuring stuff out."

Jungkook laughs, "Good luck."

They go their separate ways in the parking lot.

Jungkook buckles up, then realizes that he has no idea where he wants to go for lunch.

Hmm.

He decides to just walk around and find something that way, so he drives to the middle of town and parks, climbing out and taking a look around.

When he doesn't see something right away, he just starts to walk.

As he's walking, he feels a vibration in his back pocket, so he reaches for his phone and pulls it out.

Oh.

The work phone.

He keeps forgetting that he puts it in his pocket.

Every single day, without fail.

Jungkook looks at the text that popped up.

Weird.

He never gets texts on this phone...

He clicks on it.

(???): keep your enemies close, but your friends closer.

What the fuck?

Is this some kind of prank?

The quote isn't even correct.

Jungkook deletes the text, not giving it much thought as he slips the phone back into his pocket.

When he looks up, he sees a small shop to his right.

An art shop.

Paint on each other.

Jungkook reddens at the memory of that silly date idea.

Ridiculous.

He starts walking past the shop, but then an idea flits through his brain and he stops short.

Wait a second...

Jungkook turns and heads back and into the shop, the bell above the door ringing when he steps inside.

"Welcome!"

He sees a girl at the front desk smiling at him.

He bows and makes his way in, looking around for a second before going on a mission to find the paint.

He finds it rather quickly.

A huge array of paint, spaning an entire wall.

All different kinds.

Jungkook's heart soars as he looks at all the colors, blurry memories coming to the surface the longer he looks.

Paint splattering, running around as giggles tumble from his lips, yelling at Tae to sit still so he can draw him, paint fights, drawing competitions between the two of them, gifting the drawings to Tae and his mother-

"Do you need help finding anything?"

Jungkook jumps and turns to see the girl from the front desk smiling at him.

"Oh, no I'm fine."

"Are you sure?"

Jungkook raises a brow, "Uh, yeah."

"Ok, just let me know if you need anything."

"Sure."

She turns and walks away, her ponytail bouncing around.

Jungkook sighs in annoyance.

He hates it when strangers approach him.

He turns back to the paint, the memories now hidden well and good again.

Hmm...

What colors should he get?

What was your favorite color again?

Yellow.

Yeah, it was definitely yellow.

Jungkook looks through the different shades of yellow.

There are so many.

He isn't sure which one is your favorite.

He sighs and pulls his phone out, snapping a picture of the yellow shade scale hanging on the wall, then he sends it to you.

Which one is your favorite?

Don't ask why.

While he waits for you to reply, he looks at the other colors.

He grabs a bottle of black paint.

He'll get this one for himself.

*bling*

Jungkook grabs his phone out of his pocket.

(duck emoji): i like the pastel yellow :) third one from the left.

Jungkook smiles.

Perfect.

He grabs the right color yellow, then he starts looking for some canvases.

He finds them easily, looking over all the different sizes as he thinks about which one would work best.

"Need help picking out a canvas?"

Jungkook's face drops when he hears the worker's voice again.

He doesn’t even bother to turn, "No, I'm fine."

"Oh, okay."

He focuses back on the canvases, but he can't concentrate with her lurking right behind him.

She's making him uncomfortable.

Jungkook turns to her, glancing around the store quickly to see an old man looking around cluelessly.

"I think that man could use some help," Jungkook points at him.

She turns, a frown painting her features as she walks away.

Jungkook sighs in relief.

Geez.

Why can't people get a hint?

Jungkook glances over the canvases once more before settling on a 12x12.

Then he starts thinking again.

He goes back to the front to grab a little basket, dumps his stuff in, then hurries back to the paint.

He starts grabbing an assortment of acrylic paints and watercolors, then he moves on to the brushes.

There's a little spark of childish excitement as he picks out the perfect ones.

He gets a few more canvases, then he gets a big sketch pad.

Ok, done.

Jungkook goes to the front, a new lift to his step.

He puts his stuff on the counter.

The girl smiles at him and he gives her a tight-lipped smile back.

"Is this all for you?"

"Yup."

"Alright," She rings him up and he pays quickly before gathering his bags.

"Wait."

He stops when she calls to him.

Urgh.

"Can I have your number?"

Jungkook feels his stomach sink in disappointment.

He was so excited to think this would be his regular art store from now on.

Guess not.

He looks her dead in the eye, "I have a girlfriend."

She shrugs, "And?"

Jungkook turns to fully face her.

"Is that a joke?"

"No, why would it be?"

Jungkook chuckles bitterly, "Yeah, ok. If you haven't noticed, I'm clearly not interested."

She looks offended, but Jungkook just rolls his eyes and walks out.

He decides to just grab some kimbap from a corner store before heading back to his car.

That whole encounter made him feel sick.

Are people really like that these days?

He literally told her he was dating someone and she acted like that didn't matter.

Is this the new normal?

Jungkook shakes his head as he gets in the car, putting his stuff in the passenger seat.

He hopes you wouldn't mind him telling strangers he's dating you...

You wouldn't, would you?

Technically you're not really dating...

But he wants to.

Is it too soon to ask?

Shit, he knows nothing.

His mom never taught him this stuff.

Before he gets the chance to go into a hole of overthinking, Jungkook forces himself not to think about it as he drives home.

"I'm home, Yin."

"meow."

The cat immediately comes over and rubs against his ankles, purring cutely.

Jungkook laughs as he takes his shoes off, then brings his bags to the kitchen table. He sits and eats his kimbap quickly, then he starts pulling all his goodies out and spreading them on the table to look over it all.

He grabs all the paint except the bottles of black and your pastel yellow, then puts them in one of the bags and brings them to his closet, putting them up on a shelf.

Next, he grabs the canvases that aren't the 12x12, all but two of the brushes, and the sketchpad.

He puts those on the closet's top-shelf as well.

Now all that's left on the table is his paint, your paint, two brushes, and the 12x12 canvas.

Jungkook's stomach suddenly gets nervous butterflies as he thinks more about what he wanted to do.

What if you think it's silly? Or stupid even.

No, you won't.

He's sure you would like something like this.

Hopefully.

Jungkook looks at the time.

Two o'clock.

Ok, he has a little time before he needs to go and pick you up.

Jungkook walks over to his nightstand and pulls out the little pad of paper he keeps there when he needs to write something down before he forgets it.

He rips out a piece of paper, then grabs a pencil.

"Ok, Yin. Do something cute," He says as he sits at the little dining table.

Yin just stares at him from where he's perched on the corner of his bed.

Then he turns and walks over to the pillow, curling up on it and closing his eyes.

Jungkook nods, "Hm, that's pretty cute."

He shakes his hands, trying to get rid of the nerves.

He hasn't done this in at least nine years.

After hyping himself up for a minute, Jungkook starts to carefully sketch out Yin's body laying on the pillow, curled up like a little cinnamon roll.

It only takes him about five minutes to complete the drawing.

Thankfully, Yin fell asleep, so it didn't get messed up if he moved.

Jungkook holds the drawing out in front of him, examining it.

Hm, not bad...

He flips over the paper and starts drawing something else from memory.

This one takes him a bit longer, but he smiles in satisfaction when it's finally finished.

It came out better than he hoped it would.

He glances at the time to see it's already two-thirty.

"Oh, shit."

Jungkook jumps up and runs to the shower, startling Yin.

He takes the fastest shower known to mankind, then stumbles through his apartment, drying his hair and trying to get dressed as Yin watches him judgementally.

He leaves to get you right on time.

Thank heavens.

*ding dong*

Jimin opens the door with a smile on his face, "Hey, Jungkook."

The younger man smiles, "Hey, Jimin."

"Come on in, ____ is just refreshing Pumpkin's water."

Jungkook steps inside just as you come out from the kitchen, carefully holding Pumpkin's dish, trying not to spill the water.

You have a look of pure determination on your face as you gently set it on the ground, giggling as Pumpkin starts lapping it up.

You straighten up and see Jungkook standing there.

"J-Jungkook!"

You're wearing light blue jean shorts, a plain white tee tucked in the waist, and a very light beige sweater cardigan. Not to mention your classic white frilly socks.

So cute.

You run over to him, bouncing in front of him excitedly, "I m-missed you!"

Jungkook's face is instantly red-hot as Jimin laughs.

Jimin walks over to Pumpkin and picks her up, "Come on, baby. Let's give them some privacy."

He brings the cat upstairs, calling to the two of you to have fun with whatever you're doing today.

When the sound of his bedroom door shutting reaches your ears, Jungkook finally breaks and pulls you into a hug, taking you by surprise.

"I missed you too, ____."

You laugh at how shy he gets around Jimin, but hold back on making fun of him. Instead, you squeeze him tightly, "I'm s-so happy you're back."

"So am I," Jungkook pulls back and smiles at you, brushing your messy hair from your face.

The fact that you got all dressed up but forgot to brush your hair makes his heart ache.

You're too precious for this world.

You give him a toothy grin, making him chuckle as he runs his thumb along your cheek.

"You ready to go?"

"Mhm! J-Just let me get m-my shoes."

Jungkook lets you go so you can pull on your signature chunky white tennis shoes. He notices that you've still kept it tied the way he did it for you, so you can easily slip them on and off.

So freaking cute.

"Okie, re-ready!" You singsong, grabbing your purse and following Jungkook to the car.

Once you're both in and buckled, you turn to Jungkook.

"W-Where are we g-going first?"

"Well, we need to stop at the grocery store for what I had planned. I wanted it to all be a surprise, but I can't really do that," He laughs nervously.

"What's y-your idea?" You ask, your eyes shining.

"Well I- I know you wanted to learn how to cook...I thought maybe we could make a new recipe together."

"A n-n-new recipe??"

He nods slowly.

You squeal and start clapping, "Th-That sounds like s-so much fun! Sh-Should we make something sw-sweet or salty?"

"Well, let's look through some stuff now."

Jungkook pulls out his phone and you lean over, your head close to his as he scrolls through a bunch of different recipes.

"Are you feeling salty or sweet today?" Jungkook asks.

"Mmm, s-sweet."

Jungkook smiles, of course, you want something sweet.

"Alright," Jungkook clicks on a list of sweet treats and the two of you scan through it.

Then you gasp when he passes by one.

"Ohhhhh! W-We should make m-mochi!"

Jungkook looks at the mochi on the screen then at you, "I've never made mochi before, that could be really fun."

It's decided.

On the way to the store, you two try to decide what kind of mochi you'll make, but you can't think of anything, so you decide you'll just look around at the store and maybe something will come to you.

"What about peaches?"

You look up from looking over everything in the cart to see Jungkook looking at a punch of big pink peaches.

You two have already gathered everything else you'll need, but you were still trying to figure out what flavor to make it.

You walk over and poke at a peach, "I l-love peaches, bu-but how could we do it?"

Jungkook thinks for a second, then he picks up a peach and looks at it, "We could dice it, maybe boil it down with some water and sugar and make a peach filling...? Maybe? I don't maybe that's a stupid idea..."

Your eyes light up.

"Th-That's a great idea!"

"Really?"

"Yeah! C-Come on, get th-those peaches in the cart," You snag some as Jungkook chuckles.

"Well, h-hello Yin!"

"meow!"

You set the bags you're carrying on the counter, then bend down to pet the small cat, "Y-You are just th-the cutest, aren't you?"

Jungkook smiles as he watches you pet Yin.

He sets his own bags on the counter and starts pulling the groceries out of it.

You straighten up and move to start helping him.

"it sm-smells good in here," You say as you take the sugar out of the bag.

"Oh, thanks," Jungkook says quietly.

When you're finally all set up, you turn to Jungkook.

"So, h-how do we st-start?"

"Uhm, I guess we should start with the filling? So it can set in the fridge."

The two of you get started right away, measuring and dumping and sprinkling and stirring.

Every once in a while, you and Jungkook bump into one another as you move throughout the tiny kitchen.

You both apologize quietly every time it happens before going on with your task, acting like a couple of awkward teenagers.

Jungkook looks up how to make mochi and it seems quite simple, but it ends up being a lot more complicated than you both thought.

"Oh shit, I added too much rice flour..."

"Is that...wait what is that?"

"How high w-was the heat s-s-supposed to be?"

"Just keep stirring it and smooshing it around."

"Th-That sounds funny."

Jungkook laughs at the look on your face as you concentrate on folding the mochi in the pan as it starts coming together.

You're so concentrated yet you're making silly jokes.

"How is th-this?" You ask, poking at the mochi.

"Perfect," Jungkook helps you take the mostly cooled mochi out of the pan and put it on the countertop where you already sprinkled some corn starch.

"Now we just knead it like dough, do you want to do that or should I?"

"C-Can I give it a tr-try?" You ask.

Jungkook nods, "Of course."

He steps to the side to let you stand in front of the light pink dough.

You reach a finger out and poke it gently, laughing when you feel how squishy it is.

Jungkook smiles at your reaction, watching as you start to smoosh the dough with your hands.

"Knead l-like bread?"

Jungkook nods.

"I n-never kneaded br-bread before," You whisper, your hands smooshing the mochi around like it's a bunch of playdough.

Jungkook lets out a breathy laugh.

"Do you need help?"

You nod with a pout, and you're about to step away so he can take over, when you feel him press into your back, his arms wrapping around to place his hands on yours.

"Is this okay?" He asks.

You nod slowly, your brain short-circuiting.

"First, let's roll your sleeves up," He says sweetly as he rolls up the sleeves of your sweater all the way to your elbows, "Don't want cornstarch getting on your cute clothes."

You will the blush on your cheeks to go away.

It does anything but.

Jungkook places his hands over yours again and brings your hands to the dough, starting to help you gently knead it.

"Oh," You say in a small voice, "L-Like this."

"Mhm."

You bite your lip harshly, trying to focus on the pain instead of his warm hands covering yours.

The mochi starts to really come together after a few minutes and you smile at the cute pink squishy dough.

"W-Where did you l-learn to cook?" You ask quietly.

"Taehyung taught me," Jungkook replies softly, "Kind of throughout our entire lives."

You hum, "It s-sounds like you two are the best of fr-friends. I hope I c-can officially meet him someday."

Jungkook swallows thickly, "Yeah, me too."

He lets go of your hands and smiles proudly at the dough.

You turn in his arms to smile at him.

"It l-looks great, Kook."

He nods, his eyes scrunching up as he looks down at you, "I agree, great teamwork."

He holds his hand out to you and you give him a high five.

When he steps back, you instantly miss his warmth, but you say nothing.

"Alright, I'll get the filling out," Jungkook moves to the fridge to get the peach compote you two made.

You roll individual balls of mochi and fill them with the deliciously sweet peaches before rolling them up and plating them.

By the time you're done, you feel like crying from joy at how adorable they are.

It was a lot of work, but every second was worth it.

"Should we taste them?" Jungkook asks, his eyes shining with a childlike light.

One you've never seen in him before.

You nod happily and grab two of them, handing one to him and taking a bite out of yours.

Jungkook takes a bite out of his too.

You both look at each other at the same time, your eyes wide.

"Why are these so good?" Jungkook asks as he takes another bite.

You stuff the rest of the mochi into your mouth, "I d-don't know, but I c-could eat them all!"

Jungkook smiles at your stuffed cheeks, resisting the urge to reach out and poke one of them.

You and Jungkook have had your fill of mochi, and now you're both lying on the couch in a sugar coma.

Jungkook sits on one side of the couch, his legs manspreading, one of them bent and up on the couch and the other off of it.

Both of your legs are stretched out in front of you, one of your socked feet is lying on top of Jungkook's bent leg.

This position is so familiar, you think.

Then you remember.

You guys had been in practically the same position when you cried to Jungkook that you were tainted and he ended up kissing your breath away.

Was that...making out?

You aren't sure.

Jimin acted like it was, but then he told you it technically wasn't, because there wasn't...tongue...involved.

The thought makes your cheeks burn as you look up at Jungkook who is scrolling on his phone lazily.

You look back down at your phone.

You and Jungkook were supposed to be looking at restaurants that delivered and sounded good for dinner so you could get out of your sugar-induced coma.

Now you're distracted.

You glance up at Jungkook again as the memory of him kissing you, hovering over you, and causing a foreign heat to build in your tummy, comes to mind.

Jungkook glances up from his phone to catch you staring at him.

He smiles softly, "You okay?"

No.

Absolutely not.

"Y-Yeah."

Jungkook sets his phone on his chest so that he can put all of his attention on you.

"Find anything that sounds good?"

You shake your head.

"Really?" A shapely brow arches, "I found quite a few places. Want me to read them to you?"

You nod dumbly.

Jungkook picks up his phone again and starts reading off the restaurants he found.

Honestly, they all sound good.

But your brain is so confused right now that you can't make a decision.

"Uh, s-sorry, what?" You ask when he gives you a funny look and you realize he asked you a question.

"I asked if any of those sounded yummy to you," Jungkook smiles knowingly.

Your eyes are fixated on his lips.

"You s-sound yummy."

Jungkook's eyes widen and you snap out of it, your eyes tearing away from his lips and shooting up to his shocked gaze.

"Huh?"

"You...w-what?"

Your throat closes as a blush creeps up your neck and blossoms into your cheeks.

"I m-meant th-they all s-s-s-s-sound yummy!" You practically yell, trying to backtrack as quickly as possible.

Yin jumps up on the couch, curious about all the commotion. He balances on your leg and walks up until he can climb up your chest.

You're thankful he's blocking your view of Jungkook right now.

You can't face him.

Why can't you stop humiliating yourself?

You scratch Yin under his fuzzy little chin, trying to ignore the dead silence coming from Jungkook.

Then you realize your foot is still on him, so you slowly start to pull it off.

Your breath hitches when you feel a grasp on your ankle.

Yin hops off of you, jumping to the ground as he abandons you to your fate, and you're met with Jungkook's intense stare from across the couch.

Your gaze drops and you see his hand holding your ankle.

Why is he holding your ankle?

You try to pull it away again, only for Jungkook to pull back, making you let out a squeak as you slide closer to him on the couch.

"Why are you trying to get away?" Jungkook asks, his eyes flitting between yours.

"B-Because I embarrassed my-myself...?" You reply hesitantly.

Jungkook laughs, his face softening as he pulls you even closer until he can reach your hips, then he grabs your hip and pulls you into his chest.

"You're so cute, what am I supposed to do with you?"

You breathe a sigh of relief that he wasn't disgusted by the stupid words that tumbled from your mouth.

Jungkook tucks a piece of your hair behind your ear.

"Besides me, what else sounds yummy for dinner?"

You groan and drop your head into his chest, feeling him shake as he chuckles.

"I'm just giving you a hard time, sweetpea. Look at me."

You lift your head to see him smiling at you.

He cups your cheek, "What sounds good?"

"Uhm, m-maybe japchae? Or...f-fried chicken?"

Jungkook's eyes scrunch up, "How about both?"

Oh, you've never eaten both at the same time before.

Would that even taste good?

Is that a thing?

Well, it is now apparently.

You nod, "O-Ok."

Jungkook boops your nose with his finger, "Alright, I'll order it real quick. You play with Yin, yeah?"

You smile, "Ok!"

You hop off his lap and climb onto his bed where Yin is playing with one of his feathered toys.

Jungkook fondly watches you bounce around on the bed and wrestle with the small cat, giggles tumbling from your lips.

He orders the food quickly, then he joins the two of you on the bed.

You laugh when Yin viciously attacks Jungkook's hand, biting it playfully as Jungkook wrestles him to his back.

You both play with Yin until the food arrives twenty minutes later.

There's a knock on the door and you and Jungkook both look over at it.

He gets off the bed and walks to the door, looking through the peephole before opening it.

You hear him thank the delivery person, then there's the sound of laughter before he's saying thank you again.

You watch in confusion until Jungkook shuts the door.

He holds up two different bags, "The fried chicken dude showed up just as the japchae man was turning to leave."

You laugh, "Oh, th-that was con-convenient!"

Jungkook is pulling the food out of the bags as you fill up Yin's bowl for dinner, then you move to sit at the table as he told you to, he insisted you don't help with getting the food ready.

The second you sit down; your attention is directed to a piece of notepad paper.

You pick it up and your eyes widen at the drawing of Yin on it.

It's so detailed.

So life-like.

Jungkook turns to put the fried chicken on the table, then he freezes when he sees what's in your hands.

"Oh..."

You look up at him, your eyes sparkling, "D-Did you draw this?"

He nods slowly.

"It's b-b-beautiful."

You don't know why, but something compels you to flip the paper, so you do.

Jungkook cringes when he sees you turn it over.

You gasp at the image drawn on the back.

It's a field of dandelions created with pencil, but the focus is on one in particular.

A tiny dandelion, struggling to reach up to the sun as the others tower around it.

"Oh," You breathe.

Jungkook sets the food on the table and gulps, "It's just a silly sketch, come on, let's eat."

You look at him, "I l-love it."

Jungkook chuckles nervously, rubbing the back of his neck, "Thanks, I guess."

You hand it to him and he takes it in relief, annoyed at himself for forgetting it was there.

Jungkook walks over and puts it in his nightstand drawer, then he comes back and sits down, "Ok, let's actually eat, I'm starving...for real food."

"M-Me too," You laugh and reach for a piece of chicken.

A few bites in and your bodies already feel better after eating all that sweet mochi earlier.

You don't see the way Jungkook keeps looking at you with heart eyes as you eat to your heart's content.

"At l-least we don't h-have to do dishes," You giggle as you toss your trash.

Jungkook laughs, then he sees you look at him as you mumble cheekily, "Not l-like you would l-let me do them anyway," You glare playfully at him.

He walks over to where you're washing your hands in the sink, surprising you when you turn around with how close he is.

"What was your weakness again? Oh yeah, this," Jungkook digs his fingers into your sides, making you squeal in protest.

"D-Don't! Stop!"

He doesn't stop.

You're laughing so hard that eventually, you can't even stand anymore, so you slide to the kitchen floor as Jungkook laughs, following you to the ground and continuing to tickle you.

You heave in a breath, "N-No actually, pl-please stop."

Jungkook stops, afraid he hurt you for a second.

He realizes your trick a moment too late.

You lash out and start tickling him in the sides, making him squirm away quickly. He stands up and runs to the dining table.

You laugh and stand up, "Gotcha!"

Jungkook sighs, "Ok, I'll admit you got me on that one. You scared me, I thought I actually hurt you."

You giggle, "You c-could never h-hurt me."

Jungkook feels a twang in his heart at that.

You see a weird look flash over Jungkook's face and you frown. You walk up to him slowly, "Hey, y-you okay?"

He snaps out of it and nods, "Uh yeah, yeah- I just remembered something else I wanted to do today."

A smile spreads on your face at his words.

He's so darned cute.

"W-What is it?"

Jungkook goes to his closet and grabs out the supplies he put back in there last minute so you wouldn't see it.

You look at him quizzically as he stands there with a bunch of art supplies in his arms.

He seems to be thinking something through, then he nods and sits in the middle of the living area floor.

"Come on," He gestures you over after dropping the stuff on the floor in front of him.

You walk over and take a seat beside him, looking at the paint, brushes, and canvas.

"Are w-we making a p-painting?" You ask excitedly.

Jungkook hands you the bottle of yellow paint, "Kind of," He says shyly as he takes the black bottle.

You watch and wait patiently as he opens up the plastic covering the canvas and sets it in front of both of you.

He thinks for a second, then he nods.

"Ok, yeah. I'm going to go first."

You sit up on your knees, excited to see what kind of painting you're going to make.

You're taken by surprise when Jungkook squeezes some black paint out into his palm.

"Oh-! W-What are you doing?" You lean over to look closer.

Jungkook smiles at you before grabbing a brush, "I'm painting my hand."

"Why?" You whisper.

He turns his head to see you really close to his face, "You'll see in a second," He whispers back playfully.

He's about to start spreading the paint, then he sees the look on your face. He hands you the brush, "You want to do it for me?"

You nod, happily accepting the brush.

Jungkook's breath gets caught in his throat when you lean closer to start painting his hand black. The feeling of the brush running along his hand is slightly ticklish and the paint smearing around on it is kind of weird, but also nice.

You hum to yourself as you concentrate on covering his entire hand in black.

When you lean back and smile at him, his heart flutters.

"All d-done."

Jungkook snaps out of it and forces his attention back to the task at hand.

"Alright, now I do this," He places his hand on the canvas, making a clear print of his hand.

"Ohhh, cool!"

Jungkook chuckles, "It's gonna get even cooler in a minute."

He stands up and moves to wash his hand in the kitchen, then he joins you on the ground again. You wait a few minutes for the paint to dry on the canvas, then Jungkook is back to business.

"Your turn," He says as he opens the yellow bottle and holds his hand out for yours.

You place your hand in his, palm up.

Jungkook squirts some yellow paint on your hand, smiling when you jump at the cold feeling.

He sets the bottle aside and grabs the second brush before spreading the paint across your hand.

Ewwwww it feels weird.

But you don't say anything.

It seems like there's some sort of magical trance over both of you and you don't want to break it.

Jungkook spreads your favorite color to the tips of your fingers and runs the brush back down to your palm to collect more paint, pushing it back and forth and around until your whole hand is lit up like the sun.

You hold your breath as he leads your hand down to the canvas and places it right on top of his. His hand is quite a bit bigger than yours, and you're just now noticing it as you see it on the canvas.

Jungkook holds your hand there for a second, then gently takes it away, smiling at the result.

You sit there for a moment in silence, just staring at the painting of you and Jungkook's hands.

"What do you think?" Jungkook asks quietly.

You turn your head to see him looking at you with huge brown eyes, stars lighting them up like the night sky.

"I th-think it's the m-most beautiful painting I e-ever seen," You whisper.

Jungkook's eyes crinkle at your answer.

You sit there staring at him for a second.

"Go wash your hand, silly," Jungkook chuckles after a moment.

"Oh, y-yeah."

You get up and go to the kitchen to wash off your hand, then you make your way back to him. He's looking at the painting, a look on his face that you can't decipher.

"You d-don't like it?" You ask as you sit down.

Jungkook looks at you, "Oh no, I love it. I was just thinking."

You close the lids of the paint, then you turn to give him your full attention.

"W-What were you th-thinking about?"

Jungkook looks at your cute nose, then his eyes lift to yours before dropping to your lips, then he drags them back to your eyes again.

You swallow the lump in your throat at the look he's giving you.

"Why do you think you're tainted?" Jungkook whispers.

You flinch at the question and Jungkook immediately tries to backtrack, "Wait, you don't have to answer that. I'm sorry, I shouldn't pry."

You shake your head, "Y-You're not prying. W-We promised t-to communicate, re-remember?"

Jungkook nods, his gaze on the floor, "Yeah, but if you're not ready, it's okay."

"I'm r-ready..."

Jungkook looks up and sees the anxious look on your face.

"Honestly, I d-d-don't remember it all. Just b-b-bits and pieces."

Jungkook listens quietly, his full attention on you.

Yin comes over as you bite your lip, almost as if he sensed that you're upset and he wants to comfort you.

He curls up in your lap and you pet him with a sad smile.

Just say it.

Rip it off like a band-aid.

"S-Someone hurt m-me before the accident."

Jungkook's chest feels tight, but he says nothing, wanting to let you speak.

You look to the side as a few tears fall, slipping down your soft cheeks.

"He uh-" You look up at the ceiling as if it would give you the strength you need to say what you need to, "He m-molested me."

You cringe, feeling dirty just speaking the word.

Even dirtier being the one that went through it.

You have the urge to start scratching your skin to get the feeling off of you.

Jungkook is sitting there in silence.

But his heart is in his stomach as a newfound rage boils inside of him.

He didn't expect you to say that.

He had no idea that was what you meant when you said you were tainted, but now it all makes sense.

The nightmares you have sometimes.

The low self-worth.

The words you would use to describe yourself.

Why you were upset when he confessed to liking you and you two kissed for the first time.

Why you told him not to fall in love with you...

The room is dead silent for a solid minute, the tension hanging in the air like a thick fog.

Then you start laughing nervously as you wipe your tears.

Jungkook sees you set Yin to the side as you stand up, brushing yourself off and fanning your face.

"I sh-should go. I'll c-call Jimin to-to get me."

You start walking towards the door to get your shoes, but a hand on your wrist tugs you to a stop.

"Please," His voice sounds strained, "Please don't leave."

You bite your lip and turn to look at him, "J-Jungkook..."

"____, please don't go."

You see the desperation in his eyes as he stares into yours.

Your shoulders sag and your gaze drops, "I'm n-not good enough for y-you, Jungkook. Not an-anymore. Maybe i-if we m-met before the accident...but n-not now. I'm broken," You whisper the last part so quietly he almost doesn't hear you.

Almost.

You feel the gentle tug on your wrist and let yourself be pulled into his arms.

Jungkook wraps his arms around you, holding you together just like he always does.

You let yourself cry silently, the tears sliding down your cheeks even as you don't make a sound.

"I'm right here," Jungkook whispers, rocking you back and forth ever so slightly, "No one is going to hurt you ever again."

You finally bring your arms around him, holding him tightly.

A few minutes pass by as Jungkook just holds you, petting your hair gently as he whispers into your hair that he's here and he isn't going anywhere.

"____?" Jungkook whispers after a few more minutes.

"Hm?" You mumble into his chest.

"Have you ever heard about what they do in Japan when their ceramics break?"

You pull back and look at him in confusion at his seemingly random question, "N-No...?"

Jungkook brushes the wet hair out of your face, cupping your cheeks as he leans down and touches his nose to yours.

"They fix them with gold," Jungkook whispers, "So each and every crack is lined with it, to display their imperfections, to embrace their flaws."

You feel your heart tug in your chest.

"I know you feel like you're just broken, ____. But you're so so beautifully broken, I can see the gold shining through every crack in your heart."

"Jungkook..."

"____, I wish you could see yourself the way I see you. If you could, you would find so much beauty, even in something that's in so much pain," Jungkook's breath fans your face as he tries to keep himself together, "I will never understand the pain you went through, I know. But share it with me, ____. Let me help you carry it, give me some of it."

Another tear slips out from the ones that have been building up in your eyes.

"Fuck, ____. If I could take it all and carry it for you, I would, but I can't. All I can do is take what you'll give me."

You sniffle and Jungkook pulls away for a second to wipe your eyes, "I'm here now, ____. You don't have to carry it all on your own."

Your heart swells ten times the size and you feel like it's about to burst out of your throat.

Never in your entire life has someone made you feel so valued.

So worthy.

You nod, "Ok, I- I'll try," You whisper against his thumb as he brushes your lips.

Jungkook pulls you into another hug, holding your head gently as you breathe deeply, listening to his steady heartbeat.

When you pull back to look at him, Jungkook cups your cheeks and smooths his thumbs over them, ridding you of those blasted tears.

"Jungkook...?"

The way you look at him like he's the only thing in this world makes his heart pound heavily in his sternum.

"Yes?"

"W-Will you make it b-beautiful?"

Jungkook's eyes flicker between your own.

He knows exactly what you mean.

"I don't-" You grab at his shirt, fisting it in your smaller hands, "I d-don't want to go all th-the way, I just-"

Jungkook nods as your voice gets stuck.

"I know."

He watches as you fight within yourself for a minute, then you nod to yourself and look back at him, "Will y-you do th-that for me? Make it b-beautiful, please Jungkook...?"

He nods, "I will, I promise."

Then his lips are on yours, just a light feathery touch, barely even there.

"Tell me, ____. Tell me what you want," He whispers against your lips breathily.

"Touch m-me," You breathe.

Jungkook connects your lips and his hands slide up your arms, then back down.

The memory of a man grabbing your arms and forcing his mouth to yours crashes into your brain and you stiffen.

But Jungkook doesn't rush.

He takes his time, kissing your lips again before kissing your chin, then your cheeks, then your eyes and eyebrows, then your nose.

He continues to kiss your face gently until you nod.

The memory has melted away, letting you relax for a moment as he peppers your face with butterfly kisses.

After you give him the go-ahead, Jungkook wraps his arms around your waist, "Jump, ____."

His words ignite a fire in your tummy, and you hop up, letting him lift you until you can encircle your legs around his waist, then you wrap your arms around his neck and bring your lips down to his.

You pull back for a second to kiss the mole under his lip, "I l-love your mole," You whisper against his bottom lip.

Jungkook smiles, "Thank you."

You hum as you feel him turn and start walking.

He maneuvers around the painting still on the ground.

Your tummy fills with butterflies when you know what's coming next.

He's so gentle when he lays you down on the soft bed.

"I told you not to fucking mock me," The faceless man growls, shoving you onto the couch and pinning you there.

Your breath quickens and Jungkook can tell it's from anxiety.

"It's me, baby," He whispers gently, "It's just me."

The pet name shoots an arrow through your heart as you nod.

"Sit up," Jungkook says softly.

You sit up enough for him to slide your sweater off of you so you're left in your t-shirt and shorts.

Jungkook tosses your sweater onto the couch behind him, then crawls on top of you, hovering over you as he places his lips back on yours, this kiss a little more heated than the previous ones.

Your chest rises and falls with your heavy breathes.

Jungkook pulls away for a second to whisper, "You're so beautiful," Then he reconnects with your mouth, but this time, you feel a warm and wet tongue prodding at your lips.

You hesitate for a second, then you let him in, the flame growing in your stomach as your tongue dances with his.

You're so scared that you're doing it wrong.

Jimin tried to explain it to you with a popsicle one night so that you would be prepared.

But nothing could have prepared you for this moment.

Your whole body is on fire, and you're grateful Jungkook discarded your sweater before you burned alive.

Jungkook sees more tears slipping from your tightly shut eyes when he pulls back, and he can practically hear the voice in your head screaming those lies at you.

Tainted.

Worthless.

Disgusting.

You're shaking in his arms.

He can't hear the man's voice whispering in your ear though.

"If you think you can run from me, you're wrong."

The gentle young man above you presses his soft lips to yours.

"I feel bad for the poor boy you'd dare to look at."

You let him in once more, the feeling of his warm tongue caressing yours sends chills down your spine.

"You're tainted. No one is going to want you but me."

Jungkook brushes a stray hair from your tear-stained face.

"You're the one that no one is ever going to love."

Jungkook runs his fingers down your face softly, "Come back to me, ____."

You jolt, your eyes shooting open, and you see Jungkook.

Your beautiful, mysterious, sweet, kind, and slightly out of breath, Jungkook.

His beautiful smile appears as he sees your eyes open, "There you are, sweetpea," He whispers, breath fanning your face.

"I-"

Your voice gets stuck in your throat.

Jungkook just waits patiently, ready to stop everything if you want to.

You gulp, "Pl-Please don't st-stop."

He nods but takes you by surprise when he starts kissing your jaw instead of your lips.

He travels down slowly; nipping, licking, and kissing at your soft skin as shivers continually shoot through you. He makes a trail all the way to your neck and you let out a small moan when he sucks it gently. He gives it a little more attention before moving on.

Jungkook keeps traveling down, down, down.

Until you know where he's going.

Your heart feels like it's going to explode as he kisses right above the pounding muscle.

Jungkook brings a hand up, his thumb caressing the skin over your heart as he kisses it softly.

"Such a beautiful heart," Jungkook mumbles against your skin, "Doing its job to keep you alive, beating every single day."

You aren't sure why his words are making you cry, but they are.

He looks up at you, his dark locks falling into his eyes.

"Be kind to your heart, ____," He reaches for your hand, holding it to your heart so you can feel it pounding through its cage.

Then Jungkook takes your hand away and curls his hand into it as he rests his lips above your frantic heart.

He sits there for a minute, just feeling the fluttering beat.

Jungkook leaves one last kiss there before moving back up to your mouth, slotting it with his.

This time you're more prepared when he licks at your lips and you open up to feel his tongue tangle once more with yours.

When you feel his hands running up your thighs, you stiffen again and gasp in his mouth.

Jungkook pulls away, "It's me," He looks into your eyes as he takes his hands off of your thighs and cups your face, "It's Jungkook."

You nod, gasping for air, "I know, pl-please t-touch me."

Jungkook dives back into the kiss, swirling his tongue in your mouth, making you see fireworks burst on the insides of your eyelids.

The dirty hands that bruised your thighs melt away as Jungkook's soft-touch caresses where all the aches and marks once were, soothing them.

It doesn't hurt so much anymore.

Jungkook deepens the kiss, his hands caressing your thighs as he pulls your bottom lip between his teeth oh so gently.

Your back arches off the bed at the sensation, almost like you can't control it.

Then you drop back onto the bed, a huff of air leaving you as he engulfs your mouth with his once more.

Jungkook's brain is going haywire.

All he can think about is the fact that you're in his arms, and he's drowning in you.

Your sweet scent, your soft lips, your tangled hair.

It's all too much for him.

He wants to make it beautiful for you.

He so desperately wants to make it beautiful for you.

He pulls away from your mouth with a soft chu.

Jungkook runs his hands up your body all the way to your cheeks, careful not to touch anywhere too intimate, his breath fanning over your face as he tries to catch it after being connected to your lips for so long.

Then he pecks your sweet lips over and over again until you're giggling.

"There's my pretty girl's smile," Jungkook coos as he pulls back to look at you.

You gaze up at him, wondering where the shy boy went, where the dark, anxious, and cold young man you first met went.

Jungkook smiles warmly at you and kisses your nose, "We're in this together now, ____," He leans down to kiss your lips once more as he folds his hand in yours, "Give me anything, everything you can. I can carry it."

You feel a few more tears sneak out as they tickle your cheeks before you wipe them away.

Jungkook gives your forehead a sweet kiss before lying down next to you and pulling you into him so your back is against his chest, "Please stay the night?" He mumbles into your shoulder.

You nod, "As l-long as Yin is okay w-with it," You yawn.

Jungkook chuckles, nuzzling his nose into your neck and breathing in your scent, "Of course, he's okay with it, he loves you."

Right on cue, Yin jumps up onto the bed, giving you and Jungkook a wary look, almost as if to ask, are you done?

Jungkook chuckles and you smile when you feel his chest rumble, "Come here, Yin," He calls to the kitty gently.

Yin struts over and curls up right by your bosom, purring loudly.

You giggle and watch as Jungkook pets him gently, lulling the cat into a deep sleep.

"He really loves you," Jungkook whispers into your neck, "He's even picking you over his supposedly favorite person."

You smile softly, leaning back into Jungkook's warmth.

Even though you three are still on top of the covers, the apartment is warm enough for you to be perfectly comfortable with just Jungkook's body heat.

You lay there in silence for a minute, then you feel Jungkook shift and you whine tiredly.

"Sorry, sweetpea," Jungkook whispers, "I just need to turn out the light."

You nod grumpily, "Ok."

Jungkook stands up and moves to get the light, but then he turns back, "Do you want something more comfortable to sleep in?" He asks.

You shake your head, "I'm c-comfy."

He looks at you doubtfully, "How can you be comfy in jean shorts?"

You shrug tiredly.

Jungkook walks over to his closet and grabs out a pair of sweatpants, then he brings them over to you, "Put these on, you'll be a lot comfier."

"Ok."

"Alright, I'm gonna text Jimin and let him know you're staying, okay?"

"Mhm," You nod, practically half asleep.

Jungkook makes quick work of texting Jimin, his back turned so that you can change, then he turns out the light and comes back to bed.

He puts an arm around your waist, holding you close as he breathes in that sweet vanilla scent of your lotion.

He's never going to be able to let you go.

Morning comes all too soon for all three of you.

Yin is the first to wake up, ironically.

He stretches out his little legs until one of his paws bops you in the nose.

You peel your eyes open to see Yin looking at you with huge green eyes.

Smiling tiredly, you reach up a hand and scratch under his chin, "Good m-m-morning sweet boy," You whisper softly so as not to wake up Jungkook.

Then your attention gets drawn to the warmth wrapping around your midsection.

You look down to see Jungkook's arm is securely around your waist, where it's been all night.

A blush creeps up your cheeks.

Yin yawns and stretches a bit more before hopping off the bed and walking over to the couch.

Your eyelids are so heavy, still clinging to sleep.

So you let them close.

You can hear Jungkook breathing softly behind you and feel his chest rise and fall with those breaths.

You decide at that moment, that this is your happy place.

You've never felt safer than you do now; wrapped in the arms of the young man that has stolen your heart.

Eventually, you slip back into sleep, your hand resting over Jungkook's where it's resting on your stomach.

Twenty minutes later, Jungkook feels himself being pulled from slumber and he lets out a small groan.

He's about to stretch like he usually does, then he realizes there's something warm and soft in his arms and he freezes for a second.

When it hits him that it's you in his arms, he melts back into the bed, holding you close and nuzzling his nose into the juncture of your neck and shoulder.

Fuck, he could stay in this position forever.

Just having you in his arms, safe and sound, is enough to make his heart ache.

He needs to find them.

He needs to keep you safe.

Jungkook breathes in your signature scent, his worries melting away as he does.

You're so soft.

And squishy.

Jungkook chuckles lightly as he squishes the little pooch on your abdomen.

"What are y-you doing?"

Jungkook's smile widens at the sound of your sleepy voice.

"Nothing," He whispers sheepishly.

He feels you shake as you laugh, "Y-You're a little li-liar."

"What are you going to do about it?" He asks lowly, whispering it into your neck.

You turn in his embrace, causing him to need to lift his arm.

He places it back on your hip when you're facing him, his thumb rubbing gentle circles there.

"W-What do you th-think I should do?"

"I think you should kiss me," Jungkook responds with a smirk.

You look thoughtful for a second, then you shake your head, "Mm, no. Th-That's too nice."

He quirks a brow, "Oh yeah? Are you gonna punish me?"

As he says it, he leans, so you press into the bed as he hovers over you.

You gulp, "Uhm, y-yeah."

A deep laugh sounds in your ears, "How are you gonna punish me, hm?"

You look him dead in the eyes, "N-No kisses...f-for a week."

Jungkook pouts, "Just because I was squishing your cute pooch?"

You smack his bicep, trying not to let it get to your head how much muscle there is there.

"I d-don't like m-my pooch, don't t-talk about it."

Jungkook's fake pout disappears, replaced with a real frown,"You don't like it? Why not?"

"It's st-stupid," You mumble.

Jungkook's frown deepens and you shrink more into the bed.

Your hands start to unconsciously cover your abdomen, even though your shirt is already covering it.

You gasp lightly when you feel Jungkook's hand grasp both of your wrists. Looking at how his one hand can hold both of your wrists, you gulp.

He brings your hands over your head and pins them to the pillow.

"Bellies are normal, ____, and beautiful."

"I know, I j-just don't l-like mine."

"Why not?"

"It's j-just annoying that it w-won't go away."

"It's normal."

"I know," You roll your eyes, "I know, e-every girl h-has it because of our l-lady organs-"

Jungkook watches in amusement as you ramble.

"-and n-no one has a p-perfectly fl-flat tummy, blah blah blah."

You huff as you stare up at him, your cheeks red with annoyance.

"Are you finished?" Jungkook asks.

You nod grumpily.

"Then I'll ask again, why do you hate yours?"

"I h-hate it b-because it's me."

That makes Jungkook pause.

Oh.

Well, now it makes sense.

You look away, frustrated tears building in your eyes.

Jungkook lets go of your hands.

"I'm sorry."

"W-Why?" You look back at him, your eyes slightly red.

"I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable."

You hesitate.

If you're being honest, it didn't make you uncomfortable when he squished your pooch. It kind of made you feel better about it.

You shake your head, "Y-You didn't."

Jungkook looks into your eyes, "So, does that mean I can help you love it?"

You nod hesitantly.

He smirks, then he moves down your body, making your skin heat up as he keeps eye contact with you as he hovers over your abdomen.

You gulp, staring into his eyes.

Jungkook laughs, his eyes scrunching up.

"I'm kidding around, I won't do anything weird."

He straightens up, but then he places a warm hand there, rubbing his thumb over your abdomen, "I really like your pooch. I would squish it all day every day if I could."

You giggle at the ticklish feeling of him rubbing your abdomen, then you squeal when he grabs the backs of your knees and pulls you down to him.

It's a good thing he has a massive bed, or else you would've both toppled off the bottom of it by now.

"Kiss me," Jungkook mumbles, bumping his nose with yours.

Your heart races, you're still not used to this.

But you're comfortable with him.

You push your fingers into his hair to ground yourself, then you pull him down to connect your lips. Jungkook groans against your lips when you tug on his hair a little.

This time, you're the one to prod at the seam of his lips with your tongue.

He opens his mouth, letting you in eagerly.

"meow!"

Jungkook pulls away, "Be quiet, Yin."

Then he dives right back in even as you laugh against his wet lips.

Jungkook smiles at your cute laugh, but then he groans when Yin starts crying loudly.

He sighs before pulling away.

"Don't go anywhere," He says as he pecks your lips before getting off the bed.

You giggle, as if you would go anywhere.

You hear Jungkook muttering to Yin and the sound of him filling his food bowl and you giggle to yourself again.

Then the bed bounces as Jungkook climbs back onto it.

"Scoot up," He says gently.

You scoot until your head hits the pillows.

You know that's why he wanted you to move up, he's always thinking of your comfort.

When you glance down, your heart shoots to your throat at the sight of Jungkook crawling towards you until he's hovering over you again.

"Hi," He whispers.

"Hi," You say cutely.

"You look really cute in my clothes," Jungkook says against your lips.

You flush, "Th-Thank you."

Jungkook leans down and kisses you softly before pulling back, "This still okay?"

Your heart warms at his worrying and wanting to make sure you're okay.

"Mhm, k-kiss me."

Jungkook doesn't miss a beat.

In a matter of seconds, his tongue is back in your mouth as you fight for dominance.

His tongue ultimately overpowers yours and he smirks as he kisses you deeply.

You're so lost in the kiss that you don't even realize that your hands are running along his sides. You don't notice until your hands dip under his black shirt and he groans against your lips.

The feeling of your soft hands on his skin is causing his brain to short circuit.

There's a moment where you wonder what on earth happened to your shyness, but you're so caught up in the moment that you don't even care.

Then your face heats up when you feel his toned abdomen.

You decide not to go further, and you just run your hands up his sides and down his back.

The second you feel something besides the smooth skin of his back, you also feel Jungkook stiffen and pull away completely.

He's breathing heavily as he runs a hand through his messy hair.

"Hey, w-what happened? Are y-you okay?" You ask gently as you sit up, worried.

Jungkook sees your brows furrowed in worry and he lets out a small laugh, "Sorry, I got a little carried away. We should probably t-take it slow," You see him gulp as he slips off the bed and heads for the kitchen.

"J-Jungkook?"

"Hm?"

"Pl-Please come here," You say gently.

Jungkook looks almost pained as you watch him slowly make his way back to you.

"Yeah?"

"I trust y-you, Kook. Do y-you trust m-me?"

He nods without hesitation, "Yes, of course, I do."

"Th-Then tell me," You look into his eyes, begging him to open up to you.

Jungkook sits on the side of the bed with a sigh.

"It's just- I don't want you to be upset."

And I'm scared that you'll think of me differently.

Please, don't think of me differently, ____.

You reach out a hand to cup his cheek, "I'm okay, J-Jungkook. D-Don't shut me out, pl-please."

You see him swallow thickly as he toys with the hem of his black t-shirt.

Jungkook closes his eyes and takes a few deep breaths, then he lifts his shirt over his head and sets it on the bed.

You keep your eyes on his face as he gulps again.

He lets out a nervous laugh as you run your thumb over his cheek.

"Shit," He breathes out.

You get up on your knees, sensing that he doesn't want to show you himself.

So, you crawl behind him.

A strangled gasp gets stuck in your throat when you see it.

Jungkook drops his head in his hands in shame.

He just wants to curl into a ball and die.

No, he wants the ground to open up and swallow him whole.

"J-Jungkook," You breathe, your heart torn to shreds.

But you can't tear your eyes away.

"Please don't pity me," He whispers brokenly.

"I- I'm n-not," You try to swallow the tears, but they come anyway.

Your hand shakes as you reach out to touch his back gently.

Jungkook flinches at your touch.

"S-Sorry."

He sighs shakily.

He knew you would find out eventually.

Of course, you would.

No matter how hard he tries to hide them.

They always find a way to haunt him.

You cover your mouth to trap a sob in as you look at his back.

More so, the scars crisscrossing around it.

Most of them are a little less than a foot in length, but some are a bit longer. There are many small ones scattered across his whole back, some overlapping across the big ones.

A majority of them have faded away to just soft and slightly raised pink lines, but others cut too deep to heal fully and are permanently etched into his back as if frozen in time from when they were given.

It's one of the most gut-wrenching things you've ever seen.

You can't imagine the amount of pain he endured to cause scars like these.

What happened to him?

"D-Do they hurt?" You whisper.

Jungkook gulps in his hands, "No, they don't. They're old, ____, very old, I swear."

You nod as he straightens up and reaches for his shirt.

"W-Wait."

Jungkook feels a lump form in his throat.

He just wants to cover them up and forget about it for today.

He turns to you, waiting for you to say what you want.

You crawl over to his side and cup his cheeks, "You're b-beautifully br-broken, like me."

He smiles sadly, "They're hardly gold, ____."

You shake your head, "N-No, they're not."

You lean in closer, "They're t-t-titanium. Stronger th-than any gold."

Then you kiss him softly.

The softest kiss you've shared yet.

It brings tears to his eyes.

But he blinks them away quickly.

And lets himself melt into the kiss.

"You're b-beautiful," You whisper against his lips.

Jungkook laughs lightly, "You're the beautiful one, not me."

You smile, "I'm j-just telling the truth. Y-You are beautiful."

"Well, thank you," Jungkook says shyly as you pull away.

"W-We can talk about th-them when you're ready," You whisper and he nods.

He slips his t-shirt back on before you can say anything else, but not before you catch a glimpse of the scar on his abdomen from when the two of you were in Busan.

A frown appears on your sweet face, causing Jungkook to look at you worriedly.

"Hey, what's wrong?"

"Th-That scar on y-your abdomen..."

Jungkook nods, "Mhm? The one you sewed up for me?"

You nod.

"What about it?" He asks gently, watching the wheels turn in your head.

"W-Where did you a-actually get it?"

Jungkook doesn't flinch, "I got into a fight with an old classmate."

Your frown deepens, "W-With a knife? He h-h-had a knife on him?"

Technically we both did.

"Some people are just crazy, he was probably looking to start something... ____, what is this about?"

You shrug, but he knows you better than that.

He knows you're doubting his stories.

Fucking hell.

Give him the strength to deal with it when you find out who he is.

Jungkook stands up before you can keep getting into more things, revealing more cracks in his silly lies.

"Are you hungry? I'm gonna make some breakfast."

You nod, but your eyes are locked on the bed.

Jungkook sighs and pats your head gently, then he makes his way to the kitchen.

"Do you want something hot or cold for breakfast?" He asks as he starts looking through the fridge and cupboards.

"Uhm, h-hot I guess."

Jungkook nods, "Me too, great minds think alike," He turns and smiles at you.

You finally smile at him and it warms his heart.

But you can't stop thinking about those scars on his back.

Who would want to hurt him like that?

Since you're both really hungry, Jungkook decides to just whip up a simple soup and some rice.

This time, you catch Jungkook looking at you as you eat.

You swallow the bite in your mouth and laugh nervously, "W-What are you l-looking at?"

"You."

You flush at his honesty, "Oh."

"How is it?"

"Hm?" You look at him.

"The food," There's a ghost of a smile on his face.

"Oh, it's d-delicious, like always," You laugh, "Th-Thank you again, f-for cooking."

Jungkook nods, "Of course."

Suddenly you're really shy as the memories of last night and this morning creep into your mind.

Gosh, you threw all caution to the wind, didn't you?

Jungkook doesn't seem like it's affecting him as he eats and talks to Yin, who is currently rubbing himself against his ankles.

You giggle, causing Jungkook to look at you, "Why are you laughing?" He asks with a fond smile.

"Y-You're definitely his h-human."

"Huh?"

"He's m-marking you."

Jungkook looks down at Yin as he rubs against his leg.

"Oh, that's kind of weird, not gonna lie."

You laugh, "It isn't w-weird! He l-loves you."

Jungkook cringes at that phrase.

For some reason, the thought of anyone or anything loving him or him loving them is so foreign.

It kind of makes him feel icky.

Jungkook reaches down to pet Yin's head and you feel your cheeks start to hurt from how wide you're smiling.

You watch the two of them with heart eyes, your chin in your hand.

Then the unmistakable sound of a message sounds from your phone.

Jungkook looks up as you walk over to your purse and grab your phone out.

Mina: I thought you were coming back today?

Your heart sinks to your stomach and you don't know why.

Why are you stressed out about Mina being back?

That's so backward.

yeah, I'll be back around noon. need to get all my stuff together.

You sigh as you press send.

"Everything okay?" Jungkook asks.

No, it isn't.

You never answered me and then Mina pressured me to go back home and now I'm stuck and I want to tell you, but I feel like I can't. I don't know why. Something is keeping me from telling you.

Why can't I tell you?

You nod, ignoring the waves of nausea in your stomach, "Y-Yeah, everything's fine."

Please stop lying, ____.

Tell him.

It almost feels like your mouth is clamped shut by some invisible force.

When your phone starts to ring, you jump out of your skin and nearly drop the small device.

"H-Hello?"

"Hey, did I wake you up?"

Oh, Jimin.

It's just Jimin.

You didn't even look at the caller ID.

"N-No, we've been up fo-for a bit."

"Oh good, I just wanted to let you know that I'll be out until later tonight. I picked up a shift for a coworker and then I've got meetings for the article until around nine."

"Oh."

The fact that Jimin will be gone makes it worse.

That means there won't be anyone to talk you out of going home.

You had hoped he would.

"Ok," You say, stomach-turning, "I'll s-see you to-tonight."

"See you tonight, girlie. Tell Jungkook I said to take care of you!"

You flush as you mumble goodbye and hang up.

"Jimin?" Jungkook asks as he stands up and clears his place.

You nod, staring at your blank phone.

Jungkook puts his dishes in the sink, then comes up behind you, smoothing his hands over your waist until they're wrapped around you.

You stiffen at the touch.

Not because of the touch.

Because you're lying to him and it makes you sick with guilt.

Jungkook freezes, "You okay?"

"Mhm," You squeak out.

"Am I going too fast?" Jungkook asks quietly.

You shake your head and feel his touch relax again as he back hugs you.

Then he starts toying with the tie on the front of his sweatpants that hang on your waist.

"So Jimin won't be back until tonight?"

You nod numbly, your attention hyperfocused on his soft touch.

Goosebumps break out on your skin when he nuzzles his nose into your neck, "Does that mean you get to stay longer?" He whispers into your neck.

You let yourself melt into his hold, resting back on him as he holds you securely.

"Actually, it m-means I h-have to leave sooner."

Jungkook pouts, "Why?"

"Because I h-have to feed Pumpkin."

"Won't Jimin feed her before he leaves for whatever he's doing?"

Darn it.

You turn in his arms and look up at him.

Tell him.

Tell him and he'll be able to stop you.

He can help you.

"I m-miss her," You say, which is the truth. Just not all of it.

Jungkook relents with a sad smile, "I get it. I won't pressure you to stay, sorry."

You shake your head, "I w-want to stay."

I want to stay here with you.

I don't want to leave.

Jungkook brushes your messy hair out of your face, "I want you to stay too," He pulls you closer, "I'd wrap you up in all my blankets and cuddle you forever," He says seriously.

You laugh and smack his chest, "D-Don't be cheesy."

He chuckles, "I'm not, I'm being serious."

"S-So am I, and th-that was cheesy."

Jungkook rolls his eyes playfully.

"When do you have to leave?" He asks after a moment.

You look at your phone to see it's only nine.

"Mm, pro-probably in about h-half an hour?"

Jungkook nods, "Ok, at least it's something."

He's about to suggest that maybe he can just hang out with you at Jimin's place for a bit, he just really doesn't want to let you go, but then you both hear a ringing sound.

"It isn't m-my phone," You say with a laugh.

Jungkook pulls away and looks around.

It's coming from inside the nightstand.

His work phone.

Fuck.

Jungkook walks over and grabs it, looking at the nameless number for a second.

He takes a deep breath.

"Hello?"

"Hey, it's me."

Oh, fucking hell.

It's just Beom.

"It's done, right?"

"Yeah, it is."

He hears a sigh of relief.

"Did he suffer?"

"Yeah."

It's silent for a minute before she speaks again.

"Thank you, Lotus."

"You don't have to thank me," Jungkook looks over at you to see you crouched on the ground and petting Yin gently.

His heart stutters in his chest.

"Well, I might not have to thank you, but I do have to pay you," She jokes.

"Yeah, I kind of do need that."

"I can meet you at the construction site at noon?"

"That works."

"Alright, bye."

Jungkook hangs up and stuffs the phone in his pocket.

"You o-okay?" You ask, obviously having heard Jungkook's side of the conversation.

He smiles at you and nods, "Yeah, just a work-related thing."

"Ok."

You both stand there for a minute, wanting to speak but being silenced by the anxiety of your lies.

Jungkook is the first one to break the silence.

He opens his arms, "Come here."

You walk over and let his strong arms engulf you into a comforting hug.

"I meant every word I said last night," Jungkook mumbles into your hair.

You nod, letting him know that you believe him.

He pulls away just enough to sit on the bed, then he gently tugs you closer to him until you're standing between his legs, looking down at him cutely.

Jungkook bops your nose then squishes your cheeks.

"How on earth was I supposed to stop myself from breaking that silly promise?" Jungkook asks you gently.

You feel your cheeks heat up, "I d-don't underst-stand why you did."

Jungkook lays back on the bed as you stay standing between his legs.

His dark eyes pierce into yours as he looks at you.

"If we get into that now, we'll be here for a long ass time."

You giggle, then you lean down and kiss him softly before straddling his lap.

Jungkook sits up, a hand on your hip, "Careful," He whispers sternly.

You give him a smug look and run your hands up his chest until you grab his shoulders.

"W-Why should I b-be?"

Jungkook's eyes get darker as he leans forward and whispers against your lips.

"Because if you start that, I won't be able to stop myself."

A shudder runs down your spine as he kisses you briefly before pulling away.

"Ok, sweetpea. Hop off."

"I d-don't wanna," You pout and curl yourself into him, laying your head against his chest.

He chuckles, "I just want to readjust."

"No...c-comfy."

"Well, I'm not," He laughs, "My back is at an awkward angle."

You sit up with a cute pout and crawl off of his lap.

Jungkook gets up on the bed all the way, laying his head on the pillow. He pats the bed, wanting you to lie next to him.

You lay down and instantly curl yourself into him.

"Cutie," Jungkook whispers against the crown of your head.

He pulls you as close as he can, his hand resting on your lower back.

You feel so safe and warm in his arms that you start to drift off.

You fight it for a little bit, but you inevitably lose.

"Shit, ____, wake up."

You open your eyes, your vision bleary.

"Mm?"

"We've gotta get up, baby," Jungkook brushes your hair out of your face and you see his blurry face.

The new pet name he used last night makes your heart do a little tumble.

"W-Why?"

"We fell asleep, it's a little after eleven."

That makes you shoot up, your eyes wide as Jungkook sits up next to you.

"Hey, it's okay. You don't need to rush," He says gently.

Oh, but you do.

You need to get back to Jimin's or Mina will know where you've been.

"I g-gotta go," You scramble out of the big bed and run to the couch to grab your sweater.

The image of Jungkook taking it off of you and tossing it on the couch makes you pause as your cheeks flush.

Then you snap out of it and pull it on before running your fingers through your messy hair, trying to make it look like you weren't just sleeping.

You're frantically looking around for your shorts as Jungkook gets up and walks over to grab the painting that's been on the floor all night.

He carefully puts it in his closet, then he sees you looking around.

"What're you looking for?"

"My sh-shorts," You say, face red as a tomato.

Jungkook sees them right away, they're laying on the floor next to the bed, but Yin is sleeping on top of them.

He laughs and walks over to pick Yin up, grabbing the shorts and holding them out to you, "Here you go."

"Oh th-thank you!"

You grab them then run into the bathroom to change.

Jungkook walks over to grab his shoes as you make sure you have everything.

Sweater.

Purse.

Phone.

Shoes.

Okay, you're good to go.

"Wait, do you have a key to Jimin's house?" Jungkook asks suddenly.

You nod, "Mhm, he g-got an extra m-made for me."

Jungkook grabs his regular phone and wallet, then snags his keys off the hook in the wall by the door.

"Alright, you ready to go?"

You pet Yin one last time, then you follow him to the door, "Y-Yup."

Jungkook pulls up to Jimin's condo.

"Th-Thank you, for everything," You say sweetly, "F-For driving me, always g-g-getting me food, and for everything l-last night."

Jungkook smiles despite his chest hurting at having to leave you.

Maybe he can just get the money and come back and hang out with you in a little bit.

"Thank you for trusting me with your heart," Jungkook says genuinely before he leans over the console, meeting you halfway.

You look into his deep brown eyes and feel an overwhelming sense of security.

Tell him.

"I'll keep it safe, I promise," He gives you a soft smile, gazing into your eyes.

"I- I know."

You want to kiss him.

But you feel like you can't.

The guilt is eating away at you, but the anxiety of Mina arriving when Jungkook is here crowds over everything else.

So you smile and give him a quick peck on the cheek, then you turn and hop out of the car before he can say something that'll make you jump back into his arms.

Jungkook watches you run up to the door, your messy hair flopping around wildly.

"Silly girl," He whispers, making sure to watch until you're inside and the door is shut.

Only then does he look away and take the car out of park.

Just get the money and be done.

"Damn, even cuter than the first night."

Jungkook sighs, resisting the urge to tell her to shut the fuck up.

She lost her sister, he isn't trying to hurt someone even more, no matter how irritating they are.

"I'm kind of in a rush," Jungkook decides to go with instead.

Beom nods, "I get it."

She holds out a thick envelope.

Jungkook is about to take it when she brings it back to her chest.

"You sure you don't want that kiss instead? Maybe even a one-night stand?" She asks with a glint in her eye.

At first, his blood starts boiling.

Then an image of you pops into his head and he calms down.

He looks at her for a second and suddenly, he pities her.

He's looking at her through your eyes.

What would you see?

Jungkook's instinct is to lash out, but he's noticed that yours is to step into the other person's shoes.

"Why do you do that?" Jungkook asks, catching her a bit off guard.

She smirks, "What?"

"Fling yourself at me... You don't even know me, why would you want to hook up with me?"

Her flirtatious smile falters, "W-What are you talking about?"

Jungkook sighs, "Look, I'm really sorry about what happened to you and your little sister. No one deserves to go through that."

She looks away from him, clutching the money-filled envelope to her chest.

"You should raise the bar."

"What?" She looks back at him in confusion.

"Give yourself a little more respect," Jungkook says genuinely, "You'll find someone that really cares for you and that you love. Don't let what he did to you define you. He's gone now, you can be free."

Her eyes fill with tears and she shoves the envelope into his chest.

He grabs it before it falls and busts open.

"I'm guessing you found your person?" She asks, looking at him.

He nods, "Yeah, I have."

"Does she know what you are?"

Jungkook shakes his head, "No, she doesn't know what I do."

She smiles bitterly, "I'll make one more deal with you, Lotus."

Jungkook just stays silent.

"I'll raise my standards and respect myself more if you tell her the truth about who you are."

Jungkook furrows his brows, "Why do you care if she knows?"

"Because I care about how she feels," Beom says firmly, "Call it a thing between all fellow women, even if we don't know each other. If you don't tell her, someone else is going to, and that's going to hurt her a hell of a lot more, believe me."

Jungkook looks down, unconsciously squeezing the envelope of money.

"Good luck, Lotus. And thank you, for ridding this world of one more despicable bastard."

Jungkook nods, then he turns and makes his way out.

When he gets back to his car, he sighs.

He hopes you would've been proud of him for how he handled that situation, for trying to understand her instead of snapping at her to leave him alone. It certainly felt weird not to snap like he usually would. He wouldn't say it made him feel good, no it made him feel strange, frustrated almost.

Who knows, maybe he is changing for the better.

He's trying to at least.

For you.

Jungkook turns the car on and starts heading back to his apartment.

He'll just drop off the money, then he'll see if he can hang out with you.

Maybe he can even bring Yin to hang out with Pumpkin, you'll probably like that.

You're just finished stuffing Pumpkin's stuff into a bag when your phone starts ringing.

You answer it without looking at the ID.

"Hello?"

"Hey! I'm here, I thought maybe you could use some help bringing your stuff home."

You knew she would do that.

That's why you needed Jungkook to leave quickly.

"Oh, ok, th-thanks."

Not a minute later, you're letting Mina in so that the two of you can carry your stuff out to the car.

Your stomach is in knots as Mina goes on about something she was watching last night.

You're not really paying attention, you're just wondering why the heck you don't feel comfortable around Mina right now.

"Alright, that's it! Ready to go?"

You nod, holding Pumpkin close to your chest as she eyes your best friend suspiciously.

___________________________________

Jungkook walks up the stairs as he looks at his phone.

He texted you a little bit ago and asked if he could bring Yin over to hang out, but you haven't said anything.

It's weird for you not to answer him fairly quickly.

"Hey, Kook!"

Jungkook looks up from his phone to see Hoseok and Sana coming down the stairs.

"Oh, hi."

"I didn't know Tae was back! We should get together for dinner sometime," Hobi says brightly, not sensing the tension in the air after his words.

Taehyung's back?

Jungkook nods, "Yeah, we totally should. Look, I'm sorry, I need to go."

They say goodbye as he hurries past them and runs up the stairs.

Why the hell is Tae back already and why didn't he say anything?

Jungkook makes it to his door and fumbles for his keys, unlocking it and pushing it open, he stumbles inside.

He sees a dark figure sitting on the couch, one leg resting on the other.

"Hey, I didn't know you would be back today," Jungkook says as he sets the keys on the hook and shrugs off his jacket, pulling his face mask off while he's at it. He forgot he had that on, honestly.

"mew."

Jungkook pets Yin's head and looks at Tae, confusion clouding his mind as he's about to take off his shoes. Jungkook lets go of his boot, deciding not to take them off.

"Hey, you okay?"

The stiff figure finally moves, setting his leg down as he puts his elbows on his knees and turns his head to look at Jungkook.

Taehyung stands up from the couch and walks over to him slowly.

That's when Jungkook notices Tae never took off his shoes.

He's about to scold him for walking on his carpet with his nasty shoes on, but then he sees the look on his friend's face and he says nothing.

"What did I say?" Taehyung asks darkly.

Jungkook looks at him, his brows furrowed together in his utter confusion.

Yin meows and rubs at Jungkook's legs, but he doesn't pay the cat any attention.

"What-"

Tae looks up and Jungkook sees something flashing in his eyes.

Anger.

He's angry.

Why is he angry?

"I was supposed to be back yesterday," Tae speaks lowly.

Jungkook's stomach lurches and he says a prayer of thanks for that not being the case.

"But I got another hit."

"Oh, nice."

Jungkook is confused.

Why is he telling him this?

Then he looks down and sees a manila folder in Tae's hand, hanging limply.

"Why-"

Jungkook flinches slightly when Tae slams the folder onto the ground in front of him.

Yin bolts away and under the bed.

Jungkook looks at Tae in shock as the older hitman's eyes darken the longer he stares at his younger friend.

"You lied to me," Taehyung breathes, his hands shaking from the rage boiling inside him.

Jungkook's stomach turns as his eyes drag down from Tae's, all the way to the floor where the folder now lies.

A few pictures are spilling out of it.

And your smiling face is printed onto every single one.

______________________________________

a/n: if you saw any typos no the mcfuk you didn't

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