Gossamer, a #taekookau "So now I have to meet him for this stupid fashion show?!" Taehyung groans, "come on! You knew he is my ex-husband! Why would you invite him?!" Hoseok sighs, "he is one of the investors, Tae. We can't possibly not invite him?" Taehyung curses.

- Ex husbands - dom/sub undertone - arranged marriage - angst - morally grey characters - past alcohol abuse - toxic relationships/characters (you are warned. Leave if it's too much for you) - minors are suggested to not read this one

"He is coming here for his sugar baby anyway," Hoseok sits on the bed, eyes on Taehyung, "get over it." Taehyung lies down, reaching for the cigarette case by the bedside table. He lights one and hums to himself. "I just," he sighs, "I promised myself to never see him again."

Hoseok chuckles, "and, you don't have to. It's a huge event. Ignoring a person won't be tough." Taehyung lets out a ring of smoke, humming, "yeah. It won't be tough." His mind takes him back to those days. Those days when ignoring Jeon Jungkook was the most impossible thing.

Forgot another tag - age swap. JK is 4 years older than Tae.

Taehyung is glad for the lights blasting over his face. The lines of photographers all over him, obscuring his view of the others in the room. He crosses his one leg over the other, flashing a blinding smile to overpower those flashes of the cameras. His name echoes around him.

'To the right, just a little left.' 'Here, V, here,' 'please a little to your side,' 'smile at the cameras...' Taehyung ignores all the instructions and poses the way he likes. An easy smile with a tilt of his head. Taehyung nods when Hoseok asks the photographers to leave.

“I am exhausted,” Taehyung sips the champagne, “when can we leave?” Hoseok rolls his eyes, “you know we can't leave right now. We have to wait it out.” Taehyung hums, eyes roaming over the others, “where is mimi?” Hoseok shrugs, “getting ready for the ramp.” Taehyung smiles.

The sudden raise of the murmurs in the room makes him alert of someone important's presence, but Taehyung is hardly bothered. He keeps his eyes on the ramp. But, there is a nagging feeling in the pit of his stomach. Something familiar and aching. He looks over to his side.

The first person he sees is a guy. Dressed in rich clothes and accessories. But, Taehyung's experienced eyes scan over the guy to decide, the guy is not rich himself. There is a certain awe in his eyes and smile that screams, 'newbie to this glam world,' to Taehyung.

The guy stops short when he sees Taehyung and suppresses a choking sound when he recognizes Taehyung. Taehyung offers a small smile of acknowledgement. The smile fades just too quickly when his eyes slide over to the man behind the guy. This is the man who belongs in this world.

Hell, Taehyung thinks bitterly, this is the man who owns the glamour world. Jeon Jungkook has that same aura of indifference. His expression is just as blank as it always used to be. Those eyes are on Taehyung and Taehyung swallows. Jungkook's eyes flick away from him.

“Is this our seat?” the guy asks, excitement dripping from his voice. “Yes,” Jungkook's secretary nods, “you are on this one,” she points, “and, sir beside Mr. Kim.” Taehyung forces himself to not react. He forces his muscles to not lock up and freeze. He swallows anyway.

Jungkook unbuttons the one button of his suit and sits down beside Taehyung. Taehyung's eyelids flutter when the scent invades his nostrils. Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille. The same perfume he always used. Taehyung digs his nails on his knee, eyes focused ahead of him.

The cameras are blinding again. This time for Jungkook and Taehyung leans on his left, trying to get away from the lenses. He notices how the cameras are trying to capture the two of them. He knows this is an important event for the media. Jungkook and him meeting after years.

Taehyung lets out a sigh of relief when Jungkook's secretary and the staffs of the event ask them to leave. “When's the event starting?” the guy beside Jungkook asks, “soon, right?” Jungkook clicks his tongue, his hand going to rest on the guy's knee, effectively silencing him.

Taehyung finds himself going back years. His mind reeling back to when that hand used to come and rest on his knee. To silence him. To get his attention. To guide him around those prim guests and inquisitive eyes. He cringes at the image of his past self. Just like this guy.

He remembers being starry eyed, new to this world. Letting Jungkook string him around. Letting the man show him off. A naive, little thing. 'A brainless beauty,' as Jungkook's father called him that night. Those words Taehyung still carries with him. A scar, a reminder to self.

'Babydoll.' The name still echoes in his ears. Jungkook's breathy voice calling him that. Those grunts, swear words etched on Taehyung's skin. Those hands leaving marks, pleasure and pain coursing through Taehyung's veins like substances. He was so high on Jungkook. So blind.

'The only person you are here to please is me,' Jungkook's words still plays like an old vinyl in Taehyung's ears, 'the only person you need to please is me. I got you for myself, and no one else matters.' Taehyung twitches on his seat. There is a question he never got to ask.

'If you were the only person I was there to please, then why I wasn't the only one to you?' The question Taehyung knows he will never ask. His self-respect will always hold him back. He will never be able to look at the man and demand that answer. Jungkook never owed it to him.

Taehyung smiles to himself. Self-respect. He learnt that word and how deeply rooted it was in him the day he left Jungkook. That sham of a marriage. The pretence of domesticity. All of it. 'I want a divorce.' 'The papers will be sent to you.' Just two messages ended it all.

“You want something to drink?” Hoseok asks, leaning in, “you look pale.” Taehyung shakes his head, “no. I am fine. I just want to see mimi walk down the ramp before I leave.” Hoseok winces, “we have to stay for the after party, tae. I am sorry.” Taehyung swallows, “oh.”

Taehyung sits through the show and claps the loudest when Jimin walks down the ramp. The supermodel's expression doesn't change but on his way back, Jimin winks at Taehyung from the corner of his eyes. Taehyung smiles wide, watching his best friend disappear behind the curtains.

When the show is done, Taehyung gets up first. He points at the washroom and nods when Hoseok tells him he will wait in the party. “Change your clothes,” Hoseok eyes him, “wear something casual. Then come back. Yeah?” Taehyung sighs, “fine. Just wait for me.”

Taehyung gets out of the party to go to the washroom. When he walks out of the washroom, there stands his guards. To usher him back to the hotel, where he is to change his clothes and join the after party. Taehyung follows them to his car, getting inside to drive back.

He is in his room when the phone buzzes by his bedside. Taehyung ties the robe around himself, ready to slip into his party-wear. He curses and goes to pick up the call. “Good evening, sir. Mr. Jeon is here to meet you,” the receptionist answers him, “shall I send him up?”

Taehyung grips the receiver tightly, his eyes focused on the ticking clock. It's past eight in the evening. He clears his throat. “No,” Taehyung whispers, “ask him what he wants.” The receptionist sounds uncomfortable, “he won't talk to me, sir.” Taehyung knows that much.

“Tell him to wait by the lobby,” Taehyung murmurs, something crawling up his spine. “I wasn't really seeking permission here, doll.” Taehyung holds back a gasp, “what-” “Tell me your room number,” Jungkook's voice is just as commanding as ever. “Fuck you,” Taehyung hisses.

“I will find your room on my own,” Jungkook's voice is impassive, “and, it won't be good if I have to do that. Yes?” “What do you want?” Taehyung wonders, “we haven't seen each other for six years. You can't possibly have anything-” “Baby doll,” Jungkook murmurs, “room number.”

“It's laughable that you think those words still mean shit to me!” Taehyung says and sits down on the bed because his knees feel weak. The line is silent, but Jungkook didn't hang up. Silent treatment. It always wrecked Taehyung's nerves. He curses, “what do you want?!”

“I can find you,” Jungkook murmurs, “you know very well that I can find you.” Taehyung closes his eyes, “why?” “Room number,” Jungkook answers. Taehyung feels his eyes burn, “why does it have to be always your way?!” “Because, that's the only way for you,” Jungkook whispers.

“I am not telling you my room number,” Taehyung decides, “so, fck you.” Jungkook's chuckle sends a shiver down Taehyung's spine. A type of shiver that is not really fear but anticipation. A sick sense of thrill. “Fine, I was trying to be modest anyway,” Jungkook cuts the call.

Taehyung jumps off the bed to run and struggle himself into his jeans. He snatches his shirt next, hurrying to button it. If one thing he knows about Jeon Jungkook, it's that the man has his ways, and his ways always end up wining. When the doorbell rings, Taehyung expects it.

Taehyung thinks about not opening the door, but his mind takes him back to that one time he did that. He remembers the door broken by Jungkook's guards. The man standing proudly, hands in his pockets and eyes on Taehyung. He does not want to repeat that, so he goes to open it.

His heart beats to his mouth when he sees the man on the other side. Jungkook stands the same. Hands in pockets, eyes on him. Taehyung forces himself to regulate his breathing. “What is it?” Taehyun goes for casual, ends up with a wavering voice. Jungkook stands motionless.

The guards of the man force the door open, and Taehyung is reminded just how defenseless he is against the said man. Jungkook waltzes inside and waits until his guards locked the door behind him. Taehyung glares at the man, blocking his way inside the suite. “What do you want?”

“You need to call Hoseok and tell him you are not coming to the party.” Taehyung blinks, “I am sorry?” Jungkook nods, once, curt, “then, you will pack your bag and come with me.” Taehyung gapes, “seriously, what?!” Jungkook breathes in, as if irked, “I don't repeat myself.”

“Then start now,” Taehyung crosses his arms over his chest, “because, I have no idea what you are saying and what do you mean by this!” Jungkook looks at him, impassive as ever, “you are coming with me,” he instructs, “and, for a few months you are not allowed to leave my side.”

“You are crazy,” Taehyung laughs, “what are you-” Jungkook holds out his phone, flippantly showing Taehyung the screen. Taehyung furrows his brows to read the message there. 'Drop the deal or he will suffer.' Taehyung blinks, “what...?” Jungkook hums, “yeah.”

“No, what is this and how do you know it's about me?!” Taehyung laughs, throwing his hands up in confusion, “they didn't mention me-” “There's no one else in this entire world whose suffering is my problem,” Jungkook snaps, “so, it's you.” Taehyung goes still, “... what?”

Jungkook nods, “pack your bags.” “No!” Taehyung grits his teeth, “you can't come back after six years to tell me whatever that meant with a damn guy hanging from your arm like a candy!” Jungkook sighs, “I didn't have any reason to bother you in these six years. So, I didn't.”

“That's the only clause you had,” Jungkook speaks as if he is stating business facts, “to leave you alone. I did.” Taehyung wants to scream. He hates how Jungkook's words make him feel. “What do you really want, Jungkook?” He says instead, “because, I know my worth to you.”

“I want you to pack your bags,” Jungkook pushes his hands in his pockets again, “I am leaving with you in ten minutes. Either you pack or you come without anything. You choose.” “I choose for you to leave me alone,” Taehyung whispers, “like you did all those years ago.”

“I will,” Jungkook nods, “once the culprit is found.” “Drop the deal,” Taehyung shrugs, “is it one of those drug deals or weapons? Which one?” Jungkook does not answer. Taehyung scoffs. “Still a beauty with no brain to you, huh?” Taehyung chuckles, “get out. I can handle mys-”

“I can't drop the deal,” Jungkook sounds like he would rather not explain but is forced to, “they will know for sure how much value you hold then. I don't know how many are behind this threat, and I need to find them. Send a message that no one messes with me.” Taehyung glares.

“I don't want to go with you-” “I am not asking,” Jungkook shakes his head, “I am telling you. I haven't meddled in your life once since our divorce. I would not come back if it wasn't important. I want nothing in return. Just, come with me. Let me make sure you are safe.”

“I am not going with-” “I have never forced you,” Jungkook steps up to Taehyung, hand reaching to take a hold of Taehyung's elbow, “baby doll. Not once ignored your boundaries. Never crossed a line you drew,” his grip tightens, pulling Taehyung closer, “don't make me start now.”

“I am not going to bring up our past,” Jungkook shakes his head, “I am not holding onto anything. We are way past that. You have a boyfriend, and I am fine in my relationships as I go with them. Just, for god's sake, do this. A few weeks. Maximum. Be rational for once!”

“Call your boyfriend and tell him you are coming with me,” Jungkook instructs, “not a damn hide out. My house. In LA. You can live there, and he can just as well come over.” Taehyung curses, “Yoongi hyung has work. Unlike you, we don't own companies and the underworld.”

“Hey, I am just outside your hotel, what's up?” Yoongi's voice makes Taehyung close his eyes, he swallows and lets out a deep breath. “I have to leave for LA,” Taehyung glares at the guards who are packing his bags for him, “something important came up. Sorry, hyung.”

Taehyung watches Jungkook smoke, standing by the vast window and keeping an eye on the city beneath him. “Can I meet you now?” Yoongi wonders, “before you leave?” “Of course,” Taehyung hums, “can you wait by the lobby. I will-” “Ask him to come up,” Jungkook speaks, “here.”

Taehyung grits his teeth, “why?” Jungkook looks over at him, impassive eyes focused on Taehyung, “I need to meet him once.” Taehyung glares at the man, “we are dating for just two months. He doesn't know about you or-” Jungkook's lips twitch, “just get him here.”

Taehyung does not expect for Jungkook's guards to grab Yoongi by the neck and force him on his knees. He does not expect them to put a gun on his temple. “What are you doing?!” Taehyung shrieks, “he is my boyfriend!” Jungkook taps the cigarette against the ashtray, observing.

Jungkook walks over to the kneeling man, leans in to grab Yoongi's hair and jerk his head up. Taehyung watches Jungkook blow the smoke out on Yoongi's face, the man watching him without blinking an eye. Taehyung feels his heart race, his throat drying out fast.

Jungkook chuckles, “funny, how a mere photographer doesn't lose his shit when there are more than two guns pointed at his head.” “The only funny thing here is your shit-talk,” Yoongi replies, “as immature as ever.” “Why are you here, Min Yoongi?” Jungkook wonders, “hmm?”

“Not sure what you want to hear,” Yoongi murmurs, “I am dating him.” “You are always hired to kill people,” Jungkook whispers, “you are not going to make me believe-” “I left that path,” Yoongi shrugs, “I am trying to make a living in the right path now.” Jungkook laughs.

Jungkook's grip tightens on Yoongi's hair, “you have a pretty face, Min Yoongi, I would hate to scar it again.” Yoongi's eyes burn, Taehyung shudders when he remembers the elder telling him that the scar down his eye was an accident. “I don't fear you,” Yoongi murmurs.

Jungkook leans in, lips near Yoongi's ear, “you are terrified of me. Who are you kidding?” Yoongi swallows, “I am not here for your doll. I am not a fool to touch what's yours.” Jungkook's eyes are heavy on Yoongi, “why are you here, then?” Yoongi stays quiet. Jungkook sighs.

A cry breaks out of Taehyung's lips when Jungkook shoves Yoongi down on the floor. The sound of Yoongi's head crashing against the tiles is an odd one. Jungkook's boots are right in front of Yoongi's face. “The underdog isn't supposed to have a mouth on him,” Jungkook murmurs.

“You are to open your mouth when I am demanding it,” Jungkook orders, “yes?” “I am here for Park Jimin,” Yoongi coughs, eyes brimming with unshed tears because of the hit his forehead took against the tiles, “there was no other way to get close to him.” Jungkook hums, “why?”

“You know why,” Yoongi sits back on his knees, “I am paid to.” “You used me?” Taehyung whispers, “to get to mimi?” Yoongi looks at Taehyung, “if you are expecting morals from the likes of me, you won't find it here.” Taehyung glares, “I really liked you!” Yoongi stares.

“I wanted to go directly for Jimin, but he doesn't date people like us,” Yoongi's lips curl, “he is too snobby, so I had to somehow enter the circle. His circle is either you or your manager, and your manager talks a mile per second. So, it had to be you.” Taehyung curses.

Jungkook looks at Yoongi with contempt, “who paid you?” Yoongi shrugs, “that you can kill me for. I won't tell.” Jungkook looks at him intently, “I will lock you up. I don't trust you. You will be under my watch until this mess is solved.” Yoongi smirks, “you never succeed.”

Jungkook turns to Taehyung, “now, you have any more reasons to stay here?” Taehyung shakes his head, his eyes glossy, “no,” he curses, “I will change my clothes, and then we can leave.” They both watch Taehyung go to the bedroom, and then Yoongi gets up on his feet.

“Sorry,” Jungkook holds out a tissue, “I used too much force.” “Wonder how that happened for someone as skilled as you,” Yoongi takes the tissue and wipes his lip, “what's the plan next?” Jungkook looks at the closed bedroom door, “taking him out of here. It's getting messy.”

Yoongi nods, “I know. I can't take care of him alone. It's good that you are stepping in.” Jungkook watches Yoongi, “you really like him.” Yoongi tongues his cheek, nodding, “I know. Make sure he is fine. Safe. Otherwise, next time, you will be face-planted on the floor.”

“About Park Jimin,” Jungkook frowns, “he is Taehyung's best friend. If Taehyung goes missing, those people might come for him-” “I can't care less about Park Jimin,” Yoongi wipes his mouth, “his life is not my concern. Won't care a bit. He is a snob and I won't mind him gone.”

“Taehyung is important,” Yoongi murmurs, “I am keeping an eye on him for the last six years and know him up close for two months. I can tell you, you lost a golden chance.” Jungkook watches him, “to keep a few people untainted, you need to let them go, Min Yoongi.”

Yoongi's eyes are observant, “you never make sense to me.” Jungkook chuckles, turning away, “you are still the underdog, and I am the head of the organization, Yoongi. It's good that some things don't make sense to you.” Yoongi watches his boss go and light another cigarette.

“I can't leave just like this,” Taehyung comes out of the room, dressed properly, “I have to talk to Hobi hyung and Jimi-” “Hoseok is already alert,” Jungkook cuts Taehyung's words, “and, Jimin can handle himself.” “No,” Taehyung crosses his arms over his chest, “get him here.”

“If something happens to him, I will never be able to forgive myself.” Jungkook does not budge, “I don't have the time to run your errands.” Taehyung shrugs, “then, I am not going anywhere. Apparently, him and hobi hyung are the only ones I can trust.”

Jungkook watches him, impassive, “call Hoseok.” Taehyung watches one of the guards dial a number and his stomach flips, “no,” his voice comes out frail, “no,” he stumbles, “tell me he doesn't know you. Tell me he has nothing to do with this!” Jungkook does not utter a word.

Taehyung lurches for Jungkook, grasping the collars of his suit, “so, all these jobs I had... all these events... none of this was my own effort paying me off?!” his eyes burn with tears, “all of this. My six years are down the drain?!” “No,” Jungkook murmurs, “they are not.”

“I told him to be around you,” Jungkook speaks matter-of-factly, “when you left, I wasn't sure if anyone will come for you or not, so I just planted him beside you. Along with another,” he thinks of Yoongi, “but, where you are today, is your own work. I got nothing in that.”

Taehyung trembles, “Jimin,” he swallows, tears brimming in his eyes, “he is someone I met in this industry. He is my best friend,” his tears topple over the rim of his eyes, “tell me you didn't... that he isn't one of-” “No,” Jungkook denies, “he doesn't know me. At all.”

“Exactly how crowded is your organization that you spare this many people to spy on your dolls?” Taehyung wonders, “how many?” Jungkook buttons his suit, eyes sharp on Taehyung, “I might have had many affairs, but I got married only once. If I remember correctly.”

“As if those vows meant shit to you,” Taehyung goes to turn away and stops because of the grip on his wrist. “I never cheated on you,” Jungkook's mask of indifference has a crack, the simmering anger and frustration seeps out, “I think you undermined your effects on me there.”

Taehyung's stomach flips, “let me go.” Jungkook does, “did six years ago.” The businessman turns on his boots to go and talk to one of the guards. While they converse, Taehyung calls Jimin over. His eyes find Yoongi at the corner of the room, smoking. Taehyung feels furious.

---- The sound of the slap rings in the room. While Taehyung grabs Jimin by his waist, Jungkook merely bites down on his lower lip. Yoongi stands there, face red where Jimin slapped him. “People like you are the disgrace on this society!” Jimin shouts, “you as$hole!”

Yoongi glares at Jungkook who coughs, turning his attention on Taehyung who is struggling to hold Jimin back. “You are so cheap!” Jimin shouts, trying to break out of Taehyung's hold, “to use Tae for money! How-” “It's my job,” Yoongi answers, “I get paid for it.”

“You good for nothing as$hole!” Jimin throws a kick, clawing at Taehyung's arms, “find a better job then!” “Okay, as much as I am enjoying this,” Jungkook gets up from the couch, “we need to move.” “I am coming with Tae,” Jimin demands, “I don't trust you people!”

“My contract with the company ended,” Jimin shrugs, “I have some time off. I will follow Tae. I am not trusting any one of you around him!” Yoongi arches a brow, “you think you are capable of protecting him on your own?” “Well,” Jungkook sighs, “he can cause a ruckus.”

“He is the son of Mr. Park. The politician in Korea,” Jungkook nods at Yoongi, “if something happens to him, shit will be stirred. Unlike Taehyung, who has no one looking after him.” “I am looking after him,” Jimin glares, “he got me!” Jungkook eyes Jimin with a nod, “I know.”

Jungkook looks over at where Hoseok is, “we three will fly out to LA,” he looks at his wristwatch, “you clean up the mess here and come to the house. Soon.” “Get rid of him,” Jimin sneers at Yoongi, “filth of the street!” Yoongi's eyes flash with anger, he doesn't utter a word.

Jungkook watches Hoseok lead Taehyung and Jimin to the lift. “When everything is done here, you come with Hoseok too,” Jungkook turns to Yoongi, “I have work for you.” Yoongi nods, “this time I don't want money as the payment.” Jungkook arches a brow, “then, what do you want?”

“I want you to clean up my records and turn a blind eye towards whatever happens to Jimin.” Jungkook breathes out, “he is none of my business. As long as his father doesn't come for me.” Yoongi shakes his head, “he won't.” Jungkook pats Yoongi's shoulder, “do whatever.”

- It will be a drabble. I SWEAR TO UNICORN! - If you want to support me, here's my kofi, it would mean a lot : ko-fi.com/aamyungv

Taehyung remembers this house in LA. He visited it twice. His eyes scan the place and he feels nauseous. “You are to leave the house with my guards, if ever,” Jungkook points his cigarette at Taehyung, “there are servants waiting for you. Anything you need-” Taehyung storms in.

The inside is the same too. Taehyung eyes the decorations and follows the corridors with muscle memories. He feels like he is seeing that 20 years old Taehyung through his eyes again. First time stepping inside these corridors, awestruck, following Jungkook like a lost puppy.

He takes a turn and sees the living room. The east side of the room has a floor to ceiling glass. His insides crawl when he recalls Jungkook pressing him up against that glass, their mouths hungry on each other. Kisses leading to so much more. God, he was so stupid.

He wants to turn to Jungkook and demand to know how many. How many 'dolls' of his remember that place like he does. How many dolls of his know how the master bedroom's mattress feels on their back. How the carpet is so lush under his knees. Who else knows about this house...

“Your room is the same,” Jungkook points, voice holding nothing, “if you remember.” “I do,” Taehyung murmurs, eyeing the place, “count it as my curse. I remember everything about you.” Jungkook is quiet for a second, then he hums, “a curse, indeed. I hoped you would forget.”

Taehyung ignores those words, “where is Jimin's room?” Jungkook shrugs, “he will stay on the top floor,” the man goes and flicks the ash of his cigarette in the ashtray, “I don't like strangers in my space.” Taehyung scoffs, “some things never change.” Jungkook hums.

Taehyung hesitates, looking at the corridor that will lead him to his room and back at the man who is unbuttoning his suit jacket. “How long before you catch whoever it is that's threatening me?” Taehyung wonders, “I can't stay here for months. I have work to go back to.”

“I don't need too long,” Jungkook drops the cigarette in the ashtray, turning to face Taehyung, “my men are already on it.” Taehyung gives a curt nod, his eyes following Jungkook's movements as the businessman takes off his jacket. That crispy white shirt tailored to perfection.

The tattoo, the outline of that snake, makes something coil in the pit of Taehyung's stomach. The snarling python with its fangs exposed stare at him. As if ready to lurch through the material of the shirt. Taehyung remembers tracing the ink of that tattoo, with lips, nails…

'Why a snake?' he had asked one night, Jungkook sitting at the edge of his bed, his back to Taehyung. 'To remind myself,' the man had sad, looking over his shoulder at Taehyung. 'Of what?' Jungkook's eyes were hooded, veiled almost, 'that everyone is a snake in disguise.'

'You lose your footing, they poison you,' Jungkook's smile was crude that night. Taehyung was foolish. Twenty and foolish. He had swallowed, leaning up on his elbows to pull the man to himself. 'I would never,' he had said, lips ghosting over Jungkook's, 'I would never.'

Taehyung shivers when he recalls how Jungkook had reached with his left hand. The arm that had the rest of the tattoo. The snake wrapped around his arm. Its tail wrapped around Jungkook's wrist. The man had wrapped his hand around Taehyung's throat. Not tightly, but there.

He had pushes Taehyung down on the bed, head on the pillow. Those eyes are intense under the moonlight cascading down from the window. The elder had leaned in until their lips were almost on one another. 'You promise,' Jungkook murmured, 'baby doll?' Taehyung had nodded, 'yes.'

There was a cruel smile on Jungkook's lips then. His eyes wandering over Taehyung's face. 'Pretty face, empty vows, you are made of everything the snake represents, doll,' he had got up from the bed, 'good night.' Taehyung stares at the bed now, seeing himself lying there.

Taehyung sits on the bed now, feeling what that twenty years old Taehyung felt. A sense of betrayal. A sense of reminder that he is nothing. Another face in a vast sea of others. Just another pretty face. He snorts now, thinking, how Jungkook never shared a room with him.

He never gave an excuse for that. It was simple. 'I don't like sharing my space with others,' Jungkook had said, 'even after the wedding, it's not going to change. My routine is also too erratic. You don't need to be disturbed.' Taehyung flops on his back, eyes on the ceiling.

The real reason was simple. Jungkook didn't trust him. Jungkook doesn't trust anyone. Sleep makes a person vulnerable. The most vulnerable state of mind. He didn't trust Taehyung enough to let him be there. What if Taehyung tried to kill him or anything.

Taehyung hates how those memories resurface. It's like Jungkook opened the pandora's box all over again, and the Taehyung's box doesn't have hope in it. Instead, it has memories. Memories that keep him going and kill him every day simultaneously.

He closes his eyes, forcing himself to calm down and try to catch some sleep. He is not sure when he really falls asleep. The sound of the knock wakes him up. He looks down to see a maid by the door. She smiles at him, hands clasped in front of her. “Good evening, sir.”

Taehyung sits up, “good evening...?” he looks at the window and curses when he is met with darkness. “The chef wants to know what would you like to eat?” she asks, “he would make anything you want.” Taehyung blinks, “just ask Jungkook. I don't care.” The girl hesitates.

“Sir is dining out with his partner,” she looks apprehensive, “they would not be back tonight. So…” Taehyung suddenly remembers the guy from Paris. Right. Jungkook's partner. “Uhh, just make anything,” Taehyung shrugs, “tell the chef to make whatever they prefer.”

Taehyung goes to the closet, finding his clothes neatly hung. He picks out a T-shirt and jogger before going to take a shower. He comes down the stairs to the living room to see the chef in the kitchen. Taehyung freezes when he sees Yoongi there too.

“Shit, don't burn it!” the chef, Taehyung assumes, curses, “Yoongi!” Yoongi rolls his eyes, “chill, will you? I know how to handle myself in the kitchen.” The chef rolls his eyes, turning to face the oven, “just get out of my hair.” Yoongi hops onto the counter, “nope.”

“Jin hyung?” Taehyung whispers, “you...” his voice comes out tight, “you passed your exams?” Those wide eyes find him, and Jin freezes for a second before the man is nodding. An achingly familiar yet distant smile forming on that handsome face. “A certified chef now,” he says.

Taehyung takes those last two steps to come and stand by the counter. His eyes on the man. “You don't work as his personal guard anymore?” Jin shakes his head, “got tired of the smell of blood and gunpowders,” he shrugs, “so, here I am.” Taehyung nods, “I see.”

Taehyung forces a smile on his lips, “how is Joon hyung?” Jin's smile dims a little, “alive,” he goes back to stirring the pot, “with Jungkook right now as we speak.” Taehyung eyes Yoongi, “why are you here?” Yoongi swallows, looking uncomfortable, “I,” he pauses...

“What do you mean?” Jin gives Taehyung a confused smile, “Yoongi is Jungkook's sniper. He is one in the circle. During the one year you knew us,” Jin shrugs, “he was overseas for a project. That's why you didn't meet him.” The room is too quiet. Taehyung blinks at Yoongi.

“You know each other?” Taehyung whispers, demands from Yoongi, “so, all that crap in that suite... it was all an elaborate drama?” Yoongi glares at Jin and then looks at Taehyung, “we had to do it,” he begs almost, “you won't agree to come here otherwise-” Taehyung seethes...

“So, all that was just pretence?!” Taehyung shouts, “no one is coming for Jimin?! What's next?! No one is coming for me too?!” he takes a step back, voice rising, “what is this?! What are you all planning? Where is Jimin?” Yoongi hops off the counter, “Tae, listen to me-”

“Where is Jimin?!” Taehyung screams, “what did you do to him?!” Yoongi curses, “nothing! He is in his room on the floor above this!” he holds his hands up, “it was all boss' plan. I just played a character-” “This is not a damn film!” Taehyung shouts, “it's my life!”

“You are playing with my life!” Taehyung screams, his frustration seeping out of him in waves, “where is your boss?! Call him! I need answers! I want to know who gave him the right to play me like this?!” he slams his hand on the counter, “call him! Yoongi! I swear, call him!”

“He went for an important deal,” Yoongi tries again, “it's very important-” Taehyung turns to Jin, “call him! Call him!” Taehyung keeps his voice down this time, “call him before I do something,” he points a finger at the two of them, “call him right now!” Jin bends to it.

Taehyung snatches the phone from Jin's hand and holds it against his ear. “Jin?” Jungkook sounds confused. “Come here right now,” Taehyung chews out, “we need to talk!” Jungkook is quiet for a moment, then he sighs, “what's wrong?” Taehyung hisses, “everything! Come home!”

Jungkook hums, “well, I can't,” he sounds bored, “I am-” “I will do something,” Taehyung threatens, “I swear, Jungkook-” Jungkook's chuckle is breathy, “my guards are shadowing you. Even from yourself. You can't do shit. I will be back tomorrow. We will talk then. Now, behave.”

“First, I am not your doll anymore,” Taehyung glares at the tiles, “second, don't underestimate me. I need answers and I need you to be here in an hour. I don't care how you make it possible, do. It's not me begging, Jungkook,” Taehyung growls, “it's me telling you.”

“It took you six years to grow a mouth on you, doll,” Jungkook observes. Taehyung snorts, “no,” he closes his eyes, “it took me six years to finally use it against you. Back then, like a stupid, I didn't want to.” The line is quiet, then Jungkook sighs, “what a shame.”

---- Jungkook comes home in half an hour. Taehyung watches how the man flicks his wrist at Jin and Yoongi. They silently leave. Taehyung sits on the couch, following the man with his eyes. “What was so important that you had to cut short my meeting like this?” Jungkook wonders.

Taehyung crosses his one leg over the other, glaring at the elder, “Yoongi and you work together.” Jungkook scoffs, “no. He works for me. Under me.” “Same difference,” Taehyung shrugs. Jungkook arches a brow, “not really.” Taehyung gets up, frustrated, “that's not the point!”

“Why did you lie about him being there for Jimin and all that shit?” Taehyung demands, “why was all that necessary?” “I had to cut your only thread off, so you follow me here,” Jungkook shrugs, “also, he had to lie to get closer to you. To keep an eye on you.” Taehyung stares.

“And, you see nothing wrong in it?” Taehyung demands, “nothing at all?” Jungkook pushes his hands in his pockets, eyes unwavering on Taehyung, “it was to keep you safe.” “But, it was wrong!” Taehyung feels frustrated. Jungkook shrugs, “those moral values mean shit to me.”

“I needed you safe. I needed someone planted in your circle. Close to you. So, I did,” Jungkook stares at Taehyung, “that's the only right thing to me. You, alive.” Taehyung's hands ball beside him, “why won't I be alive?!” “You were my husband,” Jungkook says matter-of-factly.

“That's a big deal,” Jungkook shrugs, “people are after you. I had to make sure-” “Why would they care when you and me, both know, our marriage was nothing but a sham!” Taehyung seethes, “tell me!” Jungkook pauses, his expression clouding, “well,” he is quiet then...

“Well?!” Taehyung demands. Jungkook's jaw hardens, “Jeon Jungkook got married once. Someone got him to do it, it's a huge deal. No one knows how we were behind the closed doors. They think we were in love.” Taehyung laughs, “sorry, love? Everyone knows you are incapable of it!”

“I can't change others' views,” Jungkook turns away, going to the bar at the corner of the living room, “so, this was the only way to me.” Taehyung walks up to the man, “you are not even going to apologize?! For what you did?” His voice carries too much emotion. Taehyung knows.

Jungkook stares at him, those eyes shift on Taehyung's face. Taehyung swallows down the painful lump that clogs his throat. “Won't apologize for how you treated me?” Taehyung asks, demands, “a simple sorry,” he whispers, “I waited for a simple sorry. Do I not deserve that?”

“I didn't deserve a proposal,” Taehyung whispers, “just an offer. Wedding based on salary,” he laughs, “then a divorce over text. Every time I opened my mouth, you fed me either money or lies. Don't you think I deserve an apology?” Jungkook watches him, immobile, unyielding.

“What?” Taehyung laughs, delirious, “are you going to tell me we were a business relationship? Colleagues?” “We were,” Jungkook mutters, “you were hired.” “For sex and pretence,” Taehyung nods, “I know. I know I should feel grateful that you saved me that night. I am.”

“I am grateful that you saved me from that darkness,” Taehyung whispers, “I will forever be grateful for that night. But, still,” he watches Jungkook, “I am a person. I am a human being. It hurts-” “I am sorry,” Jungkook murmurs, “for not treating you right. I am sorry.”

Taehyung swallows, “for what?” he demands, “there are too many…” “For not knowing how to treat someone like you,” Jungkook murmurs, looking down at the glass as he pours the whiskey, “I thought I own you. I saved you,” he frowns, “I gave you shelter. I thought that was enough.”

“It was not enough,” Taehyung whispers. Jungkook meets his eyes, nods, “it was not enough,” he takes a sip of the whiskey, “I didn't know better.” Taehyung grips the edge of the counter, “you were spoilt rotten. You were so spoilt!” Jungkook hums, “rotten. That's me.”

“You wanted sunshine, rainbows,” Jungkook's lips twitch, there is something achingly painful in that hint of a smile, “I was darkness. I couldn't afford it. I can't afford it. So, when you asked for that divorce, I finally saw the chance to give you just that. Freedom.”

“I never apologized because I never saw anything wrong in how I treated you,” Jungkook sighs, “because, in my life, I thought that's normal. That's how everyone treats each other. Lies, betrayal, hurt…” he frowns, “those are normal to me. Apparently, they are not in real world.”

Taehyung feels drained, he looks down at his own hands, “that's all I ever wanted.” There is a silence they both know is too fragile. One wrong word and it will break into pieces. Taehyung's throat bobs, “I am sorry about your dad,” he does not look at the man, “you loved him.”

“Losing him must have-” “I killed him,” Jungkook takes a large gulp of the whiskey, “no need for condolences.” The shudder that runs down Taehyung's spine is of satisfaction. He feels sick the next moment for feeling that way. “What?!” he cannot hold back his shock.

Jungkook pours himself another glass of whiskey, nods, “yeah.” “You,” Taehyung is lost for words, “the only person you loved, cared for, was your father!” Jungkook's eyes snap to him, and Taehyung sees the storm in those irises. It brews, dark, darker. Jungkook looks deadly.

The sardonic smile Jungkook offers makes something freeze in Taehyung. “Yeah,” Jungkook empties the glass of whiskey in one go, “I loved him,” those eyes travel over Taehyung's shoulder, Jungkook looks lost in thoughts, “blindly.” Taehyung frowns, “why... then why?”

“He refused to retire,” Jungkook says, eyes on the glass in his hand, “I wanted to be the head of the organization. That's all.” Taehyung blinks, “for power? For just that?” Jungkook's eyes never find him, he nods, “yeah.” Taehyung feels his heart squeeze in his chest.

“You don't value anything, anyone,” Taehyung takes a step back, disbelief clear in his voice, “you just care about yourself and your profits, losses. God, he was not a good man, but he treasured you! You killed him just for this organization?!” Jungkook watches him, face blank.

Taehyung's face contorts, “you don't care for anything and anyone. Just you and your power and your money. You are still the same-” “I am never going to change,” Jungkook acknowledges, “I love my work. I enjoy being in power. I like how easy life is with power and money.”

“If you were expecting my redemption arc, that will never happen,” Jungkook chuckles, “devil never becomes an angel. He doesn't want to. I don't want to. I also don't care what you think of me. So, your words and your values, they all mean shit to me. They always will.”

“If what I want doesn't happen, I make it happen,” Jungkook tilts his head, “if I need something, I work and get it. I don't care about society's rules. Cowards make them to hide their impotence. I don't need to follow them. So, yes, doll, I am shit and you and I both know it.”

a/n - this is me warning you all, lmao. There will be no redemption arc where jk changes and becomes a civil businessman. lmao, he won't leave this underworld. I am not writing that. So, you can still stop reading. Don't expect a redemption arc. Also, keep the tags in mind. x

Taehyung swallows, “I know. Knew it six years ago, and that's why I left.” Jungkook agrees, “I would like you to keep that in mind. I am not a good guy, and I am not about to turn into one. So, keep your values to yourself. I won't act on them.” He rounds the counter to leave.

Taehyung lets out a deep breath, “if no one matters to you, then why am I here and why are you trying to protect me?” The man stops on his track. His shoulders taut. Taehyung watches Jungkook hesitate before he turns to look at Taehyung, slowly walking up to him.

Jungkook's eyes are icy, “I owe you a simple life,” his voice carries a sense of warmth that makes Taehyung shiver, “I owe you a normal life where you meet someone normal and fall in love and adopt babies and live a normal life.” Taehyung remembers his own words. He said those.

“I owe you that safety, that security,” Jungkook lifts his hand, reaching for Taehyung's cheek, but he stops himself, “I thought by saving you that night, I did enough. Didn't realize, I was just as ruthless as those men in that brothel. I was no better to you. I was worse.”

“I got you out of one hell to throw you into the pit of another,” Jungkook looks away, “there was no noble purpose in my doings that night either. I just,” he grits his teeth, “I wanted you. Blindly. I didn't save you. I fought to have you. For myself. Only for myself.”

“I was mesmerized,” Jungkook's eyes wander, “with you. I wanted to touch, feel, ruin you by myself,” his voice is gravelly, he is too close to Taehyung, “and, I did. I had you in every way possible.” Taehyung hates how heat coils in his stomach. He thinks he is just as ruined.

Jungkook's hand curls into a fist, “and, I still wanted more.” Taehyung swallows, goosebumps all over his skin, “more...?” Jungkook chuckles, “you really believed my lies that I wanted to marry you, so dad gets off my back? He didn't give a fuck if I married or not. In fact+

“He wanted me to stay single, have flings here and there,” Jungkook shrugs, “he hated me for being so invested in you. He hated you, thinking you are ruining me. In a sense, you were,” Jungkook snorts, “I was in you more than I was in the business. I admit.” Taehyung feels hot.

“Do you even remember the places I took you to?” Jungkook snorts, “around the world?” Taehyung does not answer. It's clear that Jungkook knows. “We were too wrapped in each other to give a damn about the places,” Jungkook combs his hair back, “it was ruinous. I was ruinous.”

“So, when you said you want to leave, I agreed,” Jungkook breathes out, shoulders dropping, “because I realized, you need someone to love you. You wanted someone whose life wasn't a rollercoaster ride. I realized, I would never be that person. I can't. So, I want you to have it.”

“And, if for that I have to manipulate the flow of time, I will try to do even that,” Jungkook nods, determined, “6 years aren't enough to untangle the cobweb that's my life, and you fell into it. But, I will not stop until I have cleared your path for you to really be free.”

“That is why I need to do this,” Jungkook nods, “let me.” Taehyung hugs himself, suddenly feeling cold, “I wished you would change. There was a time when I blindly believed I could change you.” Jungkook's lips twitch with no humour, “you can't. I don't want to change.”

“It's only in fiction where an anti-hero changes and things go back to fine,” Jungkook hums, “I was born in this mud. If I leave, I will lose my powers and I will be defenseless. I can't protect myself or you. I will be useless then. As simple as that.” Taehyung nods, "I know."

“So,” Jungkook shrugs, “I am sorry that I planted two of my men around you, but I had no other choices. I have too many enemies and I didn't want them to find you. Someone did anyway,” he clicks his tongue against his cheek, “but, I will sort it out. Don't worry.”

“So,” Taehyung whispers slowly, “in these past six years, you knew the people I dated? Slept with...?” Jungkook nods, “yes.” Taehyung's eyes widen, “where are they?!” his face heats up when Jungkook arches a brow, “I mean, they are alive, right?!” Jungkook laughs, “yes? Why?”

“You are friends with some of them still,” Jungkook shrugs, “why would I interfere in your sex life or love life? That's none of my business?” Taehyung breathes out, nodding to himself, “right.” Jungkook sighs, “I don't unnecessarily kill people. I don't enjoy the paperwork.”

“That's the thing you don't enjoy?!” Taehyung gapes, “out of everything else?!” Jungkook shrugs, “yeah? I mean, making fake death certificates, throwing money at open mouths to keep them shut. It's tiresome.” Taehyung curses, “I forgot how full of yourself you are!”

“Good,” Jungkook nods, “it's for the best that you don't remember me. It's good.” There is that hollow feeling in Taehyung. He feels sick for that abyss. He hates how nothing fills that abyss. No one fades that darkness. He nods, eyes on Jungkook's face. “It's good. Yes.”

“I will go now,” Jungkook jerks his head towards the door, “forgive Yoongi if you have it in you. He was just doing his job.” Taehyung looks away, “right.” Jungkook takes a step back, “good night, babydol-” he stops himself, tongue rolling around his cheek, “Taehyung.”

The stupidest question blurts out of Taehyung and he instantly regrets it. “Do you call your other f'cks babydoll too?” The question makes no sense, and Taehyung hates how vulnerable that sounds out and voiced. He hates himself for even wanting that answer. Jungkook is quiet.

“Ignore I asked that,” Taehyung frowns, turning on his unstable feet to rush and go back to his room. Jungkook watches how fast Taehyung disappears down the corridor. He stands in the living room. Alone. “No, I don't,” he whispers to himself, sighs, then he leaves the flat.

----- “You look beaten,” Namjoon observes, “go home, sir. I will finish these files. We will get the culprit soon. Hoseok is working too. Jin just dropped by to say you haven't been there in four days!” Jungkook scrolls on his laptop, eyes fixed there, “he is there.”

“So?” Namjoon frowns, “it's your apartment.” Jungkook curses, looking at his second in command, “seeing him brings back that 24 years old Jungkook. Apparently, I still want him. Physically.” Namjoon blinks, “you realized it after seeing him?” Jungkook glares at Namjoon.

Namjoon deadpans, “no, but, you seriously realized it after seeing him?” Jungkook goes back to his laptop, matching the fingerprints with their records, “get back to work, Namjoon.” They both startle when Yoongi storms inside the office, seething. “You are late,” Namjoon says.

“I showed up,” Yoongi growls, “count your blessings.” Namjoon holds his hands up, “whatever it is, I am sorry,” he turns to Jungkook with wide eyes. Jungkook stares at his first in command, “what's wrong?” Yoongi paces the room, “I will kill him.” Namjoon and Jungkook groan.

“No, really, I am very serious!” Yoongi comes to slam his hands on the table, glaring at Jungkook, “today, he sat down on the table, my table, took my plate of breakfast and placed it onto the floor. Saying, a filth like me should know my place, which is not beside him!”

“What did you do then?” Jungkook wonders, biting back his laugh. “Took his plate and poured it out for Holly,” Yoongi shrugs, “told him, if he is going to be a bitch, then I would rather feed his food to Holly.” Namjoon chokes on thin air, and Jungkook stares.

“You are old,” Jungkook shakes his head, “you are old.” Yoongi shrugs, “you and me are the same age. I know. Why?” “I meant, grow up!” Jungkook curses, “I fear one day you will come in and say you killed him or something!” “Count on it,” Yoongi points a finger at Jungkook.

Namjoon shakes his head, “anyway, did we find anything?” Yoongi hums, “Hoba found the sender of the message finally. We can give her a visit tonight.” “Her?” Jungkook frowns. Yoongi nods, “she is a college student. It was her phone from where the message came.”

Jungkook thinks to himself, “who is it and why is she after Taehyung?” Namjoon makes a face, “maybe she is just the front? Someone can easily steal a phone, send a message and delete. No?” Jungkook hums, “well, whatever it is. Let's see. Tonight.”

“Taehyung and I talked,” Yoongi sits down, leaning back on his chair, “he said, he forgave me for what I did. He still thinks I should have come clean to him, but he forgave me.” Jungkook nods, “he doesn't like holding onto grudges. He is too good for his own good.”

Yoongi watches Jungkook, playing with the paperweight on the table, “you will never tell him, right?” Jungkook ignores those eyes, focused on his laptop, “tell him what?” Yoongi sighs, shares a look with Namjoon, “you know what.” Jungkook finally looks up at Yoongi.

“People clarify themselves with an intension,” Jungkook gives Yoongi a pointed look, “I don't see why I need to tell him anything.” “He thinks you cheated on him,” Namjoon murmurs, “more than once. All those photos, those proofs your dad planted… he thinks they are real.”

“The old man wanted me to focus,” Jungkook snorts, “take my business seriously. I did,” his smile turns sour and then evaporates to leave behind a chilling seriousness, “took it serious enough to get rid of him,” he looks at the other two, “I don't think Taehyung needs to know.”

“He moved past it all,” Jungkook waves his hand, “I don't think dragging him back to the past is necessary.” “You were his first everything,” Yoongi leans on the table, “you left him scarred like that. He will forever look back and feel insecure. You should clear it out!”

Jungkook gives him a hollow smile, “if that's the only reason he looks back and thinks of me, a selfish part of me wants to let it be.” Yoongi's throat bobs, eyes fixed on Jungkook. “Give him better memories,” Namjoon offers, “let him look forward to you than look back on you.”

“No,” Jungkook goes back to the laptop, “he needs to look forward to a bright future. I can't offer that. I can just let him be, and I choose that.” He holds his hand up when Yoongi and Namjoon try to say something. “Focus on the case,” Jungkook points, “that's all.”

----- Taehyung hears the unsteady footsteps and frowns. He looks at the clock and gets out of the bed when he sees it's past two in the morning. After wrapping the robe over his nightsuit, he walks out of the room. Sleep flies from his eyes when he sees Jungkook.

What makes him gasp is the blood on Jungkook's crinkled white shirt. The blood flows from the right side of the chest. There is a burnt circle. Bullet wound. He hurries, “what-” “I am bandaged,” Jungkook offers, voice strained, “just, didn't get to change the shirt.”

Taehyung watches the man slowly walk towards the couch. He looks exhausted. “What happened?” Taehyung asks, watching Jungkook drop on the couch. Jungkook leans back against the couch, legs spreading comfortably. He winces when his shoulder moves a little. “Got shot.”

“Yeah, no shit!” Taehyung deadpans, his heart racing a mile per minute. Jungkook opens one eye, looks at Taehyung, “the sarcasm isn't helping.” Taehyung walks up to him, “what do you want me to do?” “Nothing,” Jungkook shrugs, “not the first shot. Not the last, either.”

“Go to sleep, I will be fine,” Jungkook starts to unbutton his shirt, “I have handled worse.” “I know!” Taehyung curses, “if you are forgetting, I was married to you for a year!” Jungkook's fingers miss a button, he goes back to it, “right. I try to forget that.”

“Yeah,” Taehyung hugs himself, “me too.” The silence stretches. Jungkook focuses on the shirt, shrugging out of it. Taehyung can't help himself. His eyes wander over to the man. He traces those scars he knows and catalogues the new ones. There are so many.

Jungkook groans, throwing the shirt on the floor and lazily unbuttoning his trousers. “What are you doing?” Taehyung looks away, voice thin. Jungkook arches a brow, “the waistband digs on my hips,” then he realizes what Taehyung meant, “I am not getting naked. God!”

“No energy left to get it up,” Jungkook curses, “also, lost blood, so, nothing is rushing in that department for tonight.” Taehyung feels his face heat up, he curses, “why do you have to be a brut about everything?!” Jungkook's lips twitch, “was being honest.”

“Go and sleep,” Jungkook squirms, getting comfortable on the couch, “I will be out of your hair in an hour or so.” Taehyung frowns, turning to face the elder, “where are you going in this state?” Jungkook closes his eyes, throat bobbing, “got a lead. We have to follow it.”

“You are not going anywhere!” Taehyung walks up to Jungkook in urgency, “you are not moving an inch from this couch tonight!” Jungkook opens his eyes, looking at Taehyung, “who would stop me?” Taehyung takes the challenge, “I will.” Jungkook stares at him, gaze heavy, “yeah?”

“Try and I will-” Taehyung gasps when Jungkook's leg goes around his. The elder slams the back of Taehyung's knees with his foot, and Taehyung topples over him. In a quick motion, Jungkook takes a hold of Taehyung's throat and rolls their position. “You will?” he wonders.

“I will kill you if you move from this couch tonight,” Taehyung grips the elder's shoulders, “you hear me?” Jungkook rolls away, breathing out a soft chuckle. They both sit on the couch, half lying, half sitting. Both panting for air. “I need to sort this mess quickly.”

Jungkook stares up at the ceiling, “didn't think a uni student can carry a gun with her.” Taehyung turns his head towards Jungkook, “what happened?” Jungkook shrugs, “I went in thinking she is innocent. She pulled a gun on me and as my men got busy with me, she ran.”

“Why?” Taehyung wonders. “Turns out, her father was the weapon dealer of this district,” Jungkook huffs, “as my business spread here, he lost his. So, they are trying to get back to me.” Taehyung frowns, sitting up, “why me? Do they think I am important to you?”

Jungkook's eyes find him. For a few moments, the elder just stares at him. Then he looks away with a shrug. Taehyung scoffs, “should have told them about Jinwook. I won't be in this problem then.” Jungkook's eyes snap to his, “not this again.” Taehyung glares, “right.”

“Why would you tell them about Jinwook and put him in danger in any way,” Taehyung sneers, “he is, after all, too precious to you.” Jungkook sits up with a grunt, “it has been six years! Taehyung, let it go!” Taehyung laughs, “oh, I did. I am just stating facts!”

“He meant shit to me!” Jungkook curses. “But, he was worth jeopardizing everything we had,” Taehyung laughs, “I mean, whatever bare minimum we had. Fucking him on our bed was worth it!” Jungkook hisses, “I told you that never happened!” Taehyung snorts, “right.”

“I saw those discarded condoms!” Taehyung gets up, suddenly back to the past, those six years' worth of hurt oozing out of him, “I saw him naked on the bed. I saw you right beside him. Just as naked! You want me to believe nothing happened?! Also, that wasn't the only time!”

“There were pictures of you two in clubs, in your yacht,” Taehyung shouts, “when you lied and told me you were going for a deal overseas, and it was just a trip with him! He was worth it all, and if he was, then why am I here?! Why isn't he targeted?! Because, you hid him well!”

“That yacht thing was overseas,” Jungkook hisses, “it was the cover! We got those pictures taken with our consent. So, the ones we were targeting would know I am out of the country, and he was there because I wanted them to think he is important. I painted him as the target!”

“You kissed him,” Taehyung whispers, voice wavering, “you kissed him!” “No, I didn't!” Jungkook gets up, groans when his wound hurts, “it was the damn angle of the photo! Taehyung, I never cheated on you! I had to use him to steer the focus from you! Come on!”

The Instagram post that inspired me to write this story :

Taehyung gives a resigned laugh, shaking his head, “why are you still lying?” his eyes are accusatory, “I was in that marriage for a year, Jungkook. You were nowhere in it!” Jungkook's expression doesn't change, his voice is just as rough as before, “if blaming me helps yours-”

“Tell me one thing, Jungkook,” Taehyung breathes out, tired, “if I take your phone and open it, am I going to see his number as the most dialled still?” Jungkook is quiet, his face gone back to impassive, “yes,” he gives a curt nod, “you will.” Taehyung smiles, “well, then.”

Jungkook hums, “yeah, well then.” Taehyung goes to the kitchen, pouring himself a glass of water. Jungkook sits down on the couch, closing his eyes. Taehyung sips the water, his eyes finding the man on the couch again. His mind reeling with anger that makes no sense.

Taehyung clutches the glass to his chest, turning to face the vast window in the kitchen. He goes to stand near it, eyes on the darkness outside. More than the outside, he sees his own reflection. It makes him laugh, how haunted he looks. Tortured because of his ghost of a past.

The unshed tears still gather on the rim of his eyes. Those unsaid words still make his lips tremble. His tongue feels heavy. Those questions, demands for answers, those accusations, all of that weighing heavy on it.

Taehyung is torn between forgetting it altogether and sacrificing his self-respect and demand answers from Jungkook and let the man see how, even after six years, those questions were important to Taehyung. He cannot ask, though. Cannot let the man laugh on his face. Ever.

The ring of the cellphone makes him jump. He turns around to see Jungkook reach for his phone. Those eyes find him once Jungkook sees who is calling, and then he picks up the call. “What?” The other line says something that makes Jungkook frown, “are you sure? Yeah, okay.”

Jungkook gets up, wincing once, “yeah, get the car. I am coming,” he starts walking towards the stairs, “yeah. Okay.” Taehyung watches the man go and when Jungkook disappears down the hallway to the stairs, Taehyung walks out on the balcony attached to the living room.

He watches, a laugh bubbling out of him, how Jinwook leans against the car. He is smoking, drumming his fingers over the car while he waits. Taehyung turns to get inside the living room and watches Jungkook come out of the corridor, ready to leave. Their eyes meet.

Jungkook pauses. One glance at Taehyung and he gets it. He looks away, buttoning his shirt. Taehyung stands, stoic, watching the man carefully tuck the shirt into his pants. He does not utter a word. “Don't open the door for anyone,” Jungkook murmurs, “good night.”

Jungkook walks out of the flat. Taehyung goes back to the balcony, like déjà vu, he stands there and watches Jungkook walk out to Jinwook who smiles at him. Jinwook opens the door for Jungkook and Jungkook gets in, and then Jinwook looks up, as if feeling Taehyung's eyes on him.

For a second they just look at each other and then Jinwook gets inside the car. The door closes behind him and the driver starts the engine. Taehyung watches the car leave the boundary and he chuckles, turning away. Six years and Taehyung isn't surprised to see nothing changed.

“I can't just drop off the surface of the earth like this,” Taehyung storms inside the home office of the man, “I have a life. My career. I need to go back to my shoots and everything,” he stares at Jungkook who looks up at him, “you can't just lock me up here like this!”

Jungkook hums, eyes stuck on the file in front of him, “you can't go out of here for now.” Taehyung slams his hands on the table, “for how long?! It has been a week already!” Jungkook looks at him, expression bored, “a few more weeks.” Taehyung curses, “impossible!”

“I have a career, Jungkook!” Taehyung tries to not shout at this point, “I have signed contracts. I need to go to work! The shoots aren't going to wait for me! They will drop me and find someone else!” Jungkook sighs, “fine. Take Yoongi and Hoseok with you. Also, take my car.”

Jungkook points a finger at him, “no matter what happens, you are to listen to whatever safety measures those two come up with. Don't act like a brat.” Taehyung fumes, “I never act like a brat!” The silent but deadpan look from the elder makes Taehyung hiss, “I don't!”

Jungkook dials a number on his landline, “Yoongi.” Taehyung waits, pulling a chair to sit. He twirls it around, looking around the room. Jungkook goes back to his files. Yoongi walks in a few minutes later. “Yeah?” he steps up to Jungkook, “what is it?”

Taehyung blinks, “is that...” he frowns, leaning closer to the elder, “is that scratching mark on your neck?” Yoongi shrugs, “yeah,” he keeps his eyes on Jungkook, “what is it?” Jungkook sighs, “Taehyung needs to go to work. You will take him there. With Hoseok. Yes?”

Yoongi nods, “fine. But, I have a condition.” Jungkook arches a brow, “I pay you to not have any conditions.” Yoongi rolls his eyes, “well, I do,” he gives Jungkook a pointed stare, “let Joon handle his friend.” Jungkook leans back on his chair, “why is that, Yoongi?”

“Because I said so,” Yoongi's jaw hardens, “I know you are the boss, but you need me as much as I need your money. So,” he shrugs. Taehyung frowns, “did you do something to him?” Yoongi scoffs, “no,” he looks at Jungkook, “it's so I don't do something to him.”

Jungkook's eyes are mirthful, but his expression doesn't change, “sorry, Yoongi. Either you find a new boss or you stick to your duty.” Yoongi glares, “you are enjoying this.” Jungkook shrugs, “never denied it. Anyway,” he waves his hand, “get out. Both of you.”

Taehyung gets up and leaves. Yoongi hesitates. He lingers behind and eyes the closed door and Jungkook. “What did you do?” Jungkook sighs. Yoongi slumps down on a chair, “shot his lover.” Jungkook stops, eyes finally on Yoongi, “sorry?” Yoongi shrugs, “you heard me.”

When Jungkook just stares, Yoongi curses, shrugging. “The clear rule was to not invite anyone here,” Yoongi eyes Jungkook, “no one knows where I live, and I made it a point, but he had to cross it and invite that scum over. It felt like he thought he can get away with anything.”

“Was he an important figure?” Jungkook asks. Yoongi shrugs, “his makeup artist.” Jungkook hums, “let Namjoon know. You will pay for the paperwork he does on your behalf.” “Yep,” Yoongi gets up, “noted.” Jungkook watches Yoongi, “was that extreme punishment important though?”

Yoongi's eyes find him, the man shrugs, “to tame a brat like him, yes,” Yoongi pushes his hands in his jacket's pocket, “he had to know he can't walk all over me.” Jungkook hums, “okay, then.” Yoongi walks out and Jungkook goes back to his files.

==== Taehyung is not sure how long it has been since the shoot started. He is not keeping track of the time. The flashes are blinding around him, and Taehyung finds himself savouring it. Work keeps him busy, his mind far away from the chaos that is his life right now.

He freezes when Jungkook walk in to the studio. He watches how Jinwook is right beside him. Taehyung feels the anger crawl up his spine as he watches Jungkook take a seat, as if he owns the place. Jinwook stands behind him, eyes focused on Taehyung.

Taehyung tries his best to go back to the shoot but he can't. Not when those heavy eyes are on him. Jinwook has no expression on his face. As always, he is just an observer. He stands behind Jungkook and judges Taehyung. Has been doing it since the day they met.

“Taehyung, focus,” his photographer calls, clicking his tongue, “your posture is stiff.” Taehyung fixes himself on the swing, nodding when the assistant asks if he is ready. He holds the rope and smiles up, the rose petals falling on his face. “Now, pull your legs up...”

Taehyung arranges himself, looking down at the lens with a small smile. He tries to ignore those eyes on him. He lies down next, tongue pressing against the lip ring. He offers a smirk for the camera. The shoot continues for another hour before he is done.

Taehyung takes off towards the vanity when he is done. He is getting out of the jacket when the door opens and Jungkook walks in. Taehyung ignores him, flopping down on the chair and starting to remove his makeup. Jungkook looks around the vanity, his eyes wandering.

Taehyung rubs his cheeks furiously, trying to get rid of the foundation and everything. He feels breathless. A hiss escapes him when Jungkook reaches and grasps his wrist. Taehyung looks at the man and Jungkook takes the cotton pad from him, silently turning Taehyung to him.

Taehyung holds those eyes, glares at the man, while Jungkook wipes the cotton pad down his face. He is gentle, so very gentle. Taehyung does not waver, his eyes zeroed on Jungkook. Jungkook takes a new cotton pad, pours the liquid makeup removal on it and faces Taehyung again.

“How long have you known the director?” Jungkook asks, the pad pressing under Taehyung's lower lip. Taehyung's lips part, “long.” Jungkook hums, “are you two friends?” Taehyung shrugs, “somewhat.” Jungkook's thumb presses the pad on Taehyung's lip, “talk in details.”

“I have done a lot of shoots for him,” Taehyung hisses, “he is a friend somewhat. A known and kind face.” Jungkook nods, leaning in, his arms on the armrests of Taehyung's chair, “kind face with curious eyes.” Taehyung frowns, “what...?” Jungkook's face is close to his...

“The way those eyes lingered on your ass,” Jungkook throws the cotton pad in the bin, not looking away from Taehyung, “how his hands lingered a minute too long on you, didn't look very kind to me.” Taehyung breathes out an incredulous laugh, “are you seriously saying this?”

“First of all,” Taehyung snorts, “my ass? Is none of your business. Second, he was giving instructions. Third, he is not even interested in men!” Jungkook hums, “and, how, pray tell, do you know that?” Taehyung blinks, “well,” he fumbles for words, “I mean...”

“Did you ask him out?” Jungkook wonders. Taehyung glares at the man, “how is that any of your business?” Jungkook shrugs, “it's not. But, I like to know what I am dealing with.” “You are dealing with a psycho like you who wants to take me down,” Taehyung grits out, “remember?”

“Answer my question,” Jungkook's eyes are unreadable, “how do you know he is not interested?” Taehyung curses, “because, I got drunk once and flirted with him. He wasn't interested.” Jungkook stares at him, and the longer he stares, the hotter Taehyung's face feels.

Then the kingpin's lips twitch, “so, you are telling me,” he pauses, as if thinking, “there are people who can resist your ass?” Taehyung blinks, cheeks reddening, “are you seriously-” Jungkook pulls away, hands in his pockets, “I doubt it. Let's see what his record says.”

Taehyung takes a makeup wipe and wipes his face at once. He gets up to round the chair, eyes anywhere but on Jungkook. “I need to change,” he murmurs, “get out.” Jungkook takes the seat Taehyung was on, “I am to wait here.” Taehyung glares at the man, “I need to change!”

Jungkook shrugs, “change,” he pulls out a cigarette, lighting it, “I won't stare.” Taehyung does not move an inch, and Jungkook finally looks at him. Those eyes are hooded, smoke coils out of Jungkook's mouth as he speaks. “I am not twenty-four anymore,” he arches a brow.

Taehyung is reminded of the times Jungkook would just waltz inside the closet or the washroom. His arms wrap around Taehyung, making Taehyung jump and then giggle. Those lips would press over his shoulder blade. The elder would turn him around for a kiss and it would escalate-

Taehyung clutches his hands in front of him. He can still taste Jungkook on his tongue. Can still hear their laughter. Can still see his own awestruck face. Still imagine vividly how Jungkook would give him a smile too, in those moments, break his character for a few seconds.

'I missed my babydoll,' he would say, 'did you miss me?' Taehyung feels shame coil in his gut when he recalls how he would nod, earnest, arms looping around Jungkook's neck, 'he always misses you when you are gone.' Taehyung hisses at his past self. What an idiot.

“There was a part of me that thought you would come back,” Jungkook murmurs, his voice sombre, breaking Taehyung's trance, “won't be able to stay away for more than a few weeks.” Taehyung's skin crawls, “thought the same and it drove me to prove myself wrong. I had to.”

“Took my everything to not go after the first man you went on a date with after our divorce,” Jungkook is now looking at the cigarette between his fingers, “to not empty my gun down his throat.” Taehyung shivers, “he is a friend.” Jungkook chuckles, “Yeah. I know.”

Jungkook smirks down at his hand, “the actor you dated next,” he leans back on the chair, thinking, “he lost a project.” Taehyung gapes, “Yes?” he blinks, “what did you do?!” Jungkook shrugs, “well, he was to lose his life, but it went over a job,” he arches a brow, “good, no?”

“Because I slept with him?!” Taehyung demands, “is that it?!” Jungkook's eyes find him, “well,” he looks away, jaw hardening, “it was a new feeling.” “What?!” Taehyung curses, “being a psychopath?!” Jungkook stares at him, “being jealous. I wasn't used to that feeling.”

“You sound like a toddler who went through a rebellious phrase because his favourite toy was gone!” Taehyung shrieks, “I was, let's face it, nothing but a toy to you!” Jungkook doesn't lose his temper, far from it, “I grew up throwing my toys away after a week or so...”

“Used, broken, forgotten,” Jungkook shrugs, “I never kept an eye on where they go or who picks them up next.” Taehyung curses, “you hear yourself, right?” Jungkook hums, “I do.” Taehyung chuckles, “then, should I feel blessed that I was so closely monitored? Obsessive prick?!”

Jungkook gets up from the chair, one step and he is right up Taehyung's face. His hand comes up to hold Taehyung by his wrist, so Taehyung can't back away. “You should realize that you were never a damn toy to me,” Jungkook chews the words out, “never will be.”

“Says a man who kept me locked in that damn mansion of his while he went around f'cking his favourite toy,” Taehyung grasps Jungkook's shirt, “the precious one who follows you like a shadow.” Jungkook's other hand holds Taehyung's hip, “he is just my secretary. You know it.”

“I kept you in that mansion where you were safe,” Jungkook leans closer, “kept you where my damn husband was supposed to be! What did you expect? Me to take you around like I take him around? Throw you in danger carelessly?” Taehyung laughs, “I was just a trophy to you, please!”

“It was your insecurities that broke up apart,” Jungkook murmurs, “I never treated you badly. If you can tell me one instance, I will drop to my knees and apologize.” Taehyung arches a brow, “when your dad said, I am beauty without brain-” “I wasn't there,” Jungkook counters.

“If you were, what would you possibly do-” “I would do what I eventually did,” Jungkook whispers, face inches away from Taehyung's, “you know what I did to him? He didn't utter a single word when I killed him, you know why?” Jungkook whispers. Taehyung does not answer.

Jungkook's lips hover over the shell of Taehyung's ear, “I tore his tongue off when he started badmouthing you,” he murmurs, “in front of me for the first time.” Taehyung swallows, his eyes wide. Jungkook's nosetip presses against his ear. “Took pleasure getting rid of him.”

Taehyung holds back his gasp, “what did he-” “He called you names,” Jungkook murmurs, “finally came clean and told me how he wanted to get rid of you so that I marry someone in class. From other families of the underworld.” Taehyung swallows, “you shouldn't have killed him.”

“For you,” Jungkook whispers against Taehyung's ear, “I will.” Taehyung presses himself back on the vanity's wall, the cool surface a shock to his heated flesh. He bites back a whimper. “Jinwook,” Taehyung mutters, “your relationship with him-” Jungkook chuckles...

“We are back to him, huh?” Jungkook's voice sounds icy, “he is not what you think of him.” Taehyung laughs, “really? You killed your old man, but you won't get rid of him for me? Why?” Jungkook pulls back a little, his face contorting, “I will never get rid of him.”

Taehyung nods, swallows, “I know. I knew it for a long time now.” Jungkook combs his hair back, a few strands disobeying and falling over his forehead anyway. “You care about him,” Taehyung whispers, “probably love him. When you said, he meant shit to you, you were lying. No?”

“I have seen you around him,” Taehyung murmurs, “you are a totally different person with him. Gentle, loving,” he grips his hands, thinking back, “caring. You are less of an asshole. You took a bullet for him once,” Taehyung lets out a delirious laugh, “I still remember.”

Jungkook looks away, his shoulders taut. Taehyung takes a hold of Jungkook's face and turns him to face Taehyung. “That night,” Taehyung's voice wavers, “on that bed-” Jungkook's face contorts, “it wasn't like that! God, how long will you hold onto it?!”

“Forever!” Taehyung shouts, “I will hold onto it forever! I can take your any side, but I won't be with a cheater! I refuse to!” Jungkook shrugs, “Well, good that we are over then.” Taehyung goes limp, a laugh escaping him, “are you finally accepting you slept with him?”

“I am letting you believe whatever you want because I can't explain what he is to me,” Jungkook takes a step back, “that's all.” Taehyung feels cold, his arms tighten around himself and he nods. He feels heavy, head hammering. Just like he felt all those years ago. “Right.”

Taehyung points at the door, “get out,” he holds back from shouting, screaming like he did all those years ago, “get out of here. Right now.” Jungkook hesitates, there is something painful in his eyes. Taehyung stands his ground. “Get out of here, Jungkook,” Taehyung murmurs.

“Also, I refuse to go with you,” Taehyung stares the man down, “I think, it's not me your enemies are after. It's Jinwook. It makes sense to go for a person who is actually important to you than a damn ex-husband.” Taehyung holds up his hand when Jungkook opens his mouth...

“No, Jungkook,” Taehyung shakes his head, “I would rather die than go with you and see your face.” “It's not up for negotiation,” Jungkook takes a step back, “you are coming with me. By your own will or by force. I don't care.” Taehyung stares at the man, “what did you say?”

“I said, you are coming with me,” Jungkook points a finger at Taehyung, “you can mess with everything, but I won't let you mess with your own safety.” “I would rather die than see your face again,” Taehyung thunders, “yeah? So, I don't care what you do, I am not going with you!”

“So, get out of my face right now!” Taehyung snarls and hauls the ashtray at Jungkook. Jungkook leans back calmly and the ashtray crashes against the door, breaking into pieces. Jungkook watches him, “if you are done screaming, I will wait outside.” He leaves the vanity.

Taehyung turns towards the wall of the vanity. He leans his forehead against the cool surface, concentrating on his breathing. He scrubs his face furiously when tears start to roll out of his eyes. He does not move from the spot for a long time. Then he goes to change.

“You should just tell him,” Yoongi lights Jungkook's cigarette, “a promise isn't worth it if it's coming between you two.” Jungkook inhales the smoke, feeling it burn down his chest, “between us?” he chuckles, “we are not 'we' anymore. Remember?” Yoongi sighs, “Jungkook...”

“That's the only thing he wanted from me,” Jungkook leans against the vanity, “and, I am not going to take that from him.” Yoongi curses, “if I knew what you are hiding, I would go and tell Taehyung.” Jungkook snorts, “good that you don't know, then.” Yoongi hums.

“Does Jinwook know that he is the reason you two are-” Yoongi pauses when Jungkook glares at him. “No,” Jungkook shakes his head, “and, you are not going to tell him. He doesn't need to know.” Yoongi tongues his cheek, “tell him. I am sure he would not want your life ruined.”

Jungkook laughs, “my life was never not ruined, Yoongi. It's okay,” he throws the cigarette on the ground, stepping on it, “I don't want Taehyung back in my life. It's better that he is gone. For his own good.” Yoongi hums, “He isn't coming with us willingly.”

Jungkook looks at the elder, “I know.” Yoongi stares, “what did you do?” Jungkook shrugs, “nothing.” Yoongi grabs Jungkook's elbow, “Jungk-” Jungkook huffs, “locked the door of the vanity,” he throws the keys to Yoongi, “if he won't come with us, I'll take the entire vanity.”

“What if he tries something stupid?” Yoongi throws his hands up, “I don't trust him! If he is anything like his best friend, I don't trust him at all!” Jungkook shrugs, “that's why, you will drive, and I will be inside the vanity. Now, let's go.” Yoongi curses, following.

Jungkook opens the door, and he laughs when Taehyung lurches for the door. Jungkook grabs Taehyung by his waist and pushes him inside, getting inside himself. “Let me go!” Taehyung shouts, thrashing, “I said-” Jungkook hauls him up by his waist, “I told you, no.”

Jungkook slams the door behind himself, “lock it!” He holds Taehyung to himself, waiting for Yoongi to lock it and slam the side of it, before Jungkook carries Taehyung to the makeshift bed and sits down with Taehyung on his lap. “What are you doing?!” Taehyung asks, eyes wide.

When the vanity starts to move, Taehyung gasps, “this is not my personal vanity!” Jungkook shrugs, “I have paid it off.” Taehyung elbows him, hard, “let me go! I swear,” he squirms on Jungkook's lap, “Jungkook! This is,” he looks at the man, “I don't want to live like this.”

Jungkook watches him. Taehyung sits, watching the man, “why can't you understand my point?” his shoulders slump, “I would rather die than be with you, in your protection,” Taehyung looks away, “you are hurting me.” Jungkook's grip loosens around Taehyung, “I am sorry.”

Taehyung snorts, “you are not. If you really were, you would tell me what you are hiding.” Jungkook swallows, his eyes on Taehyung's face, “I promised-” Taehyung's lips wobble, “right.” Jungkook lets out a deep breath, “I,” he curses, “stop crying!” Taehyung looks away.

“I will show you, then,” Jungkook whispers, as if to himself, “I can't tell you, I promised him,” he looks at Taehyung, “I will show you.” Taehyung looks at the man, “what...” Jungkook shrugs, “just... stop crying.” Taehyung frowns, “what do you mean by showing me?”

He looks away, gritting his teeth, “I am just making a loophole out of the promise I made,” he leans his forehead against Taehyung's shoulder, closing his eyes, “it was his last wish, and I am...” he swallows, “I am breaking it. I just,” Jungkook curses, “I didn't want to.”

There is something nerve wrecking in coming to the house he has never been to. Taehyung looks around the small villa where apparently Jinwook lives. Taehyung walks out of the vanity and gives Yoongi a glare before he is walking inside the villa with Jungkook in front of him.

“What are we doing here?” Taehyung wonders, eyeing the paintings and show-pieces around the living room. Jungkook looks comfortable, he looks over his shoulder at Taehyung, “I can't tell you what happened. I promised someone. But,” he gestures ahead, “he can. If he wants.”

Jinwook is there, walking out of the kitchen with a confused frown as well, “kook,” he breathes out, “you... you told me to go home, and you don't need me for the day.” Taehyung finds himself digging his nails on his wrist, eyes on the man, whose eyes shift to him then.

Jinwook looks as confused as Taehyung feels. “What is going on?” Jinwook asks. Jungkook combs his hair back, “there is something I would ask of you. Remember when Jaeho died?” Jinwook chuckles, “how can I forget my own father's death, Jungkook?” Jungkook winces, “right. So…”

“You were there when everything happened,” Jungkook swallows, “you know I made a promise to him.” “Yes,” Jinwook nods, “that you will protect me with your life and whatever was the past will never be my future again.” Jungkook hums, “can you clear it to him? He wants to know.”

Jinwook's eyes find Taehyung again and the man nods, “give me a moment, yes?” he points upstairs, “I just...” Taehyung watches how uncomfortable Jinwook looks, “let me just change into something comfortable, and then I will be here.” “Of course,” Jungkook waves, “please.”

Jungkook takes a seat and Taehyung is hesitant. He looks around the place, thinking how Jinwook manages to afford just a villa just for himself. Then his eyes find Jungkook and Taehyung scoffs, sitting on the couch. Jungkook leans back on the seat, comfortable.

“So, what do you want to know?” Jinwook asks when he comes down from the upstairs, “why all of a sudden?” Taehyung looks at the man. This is the first time he is talking to Jinwook. “I am just,” Taehyung hesitates, “I am just-” “He thinks we are f'cking,” Jungkook supplies.

Taehyung turns scarlet, his eyes snapping to the elder and Jungkook shrugs. Jinwook coughs, just as startled. “Woah,” he chuckles, “you can always trust kook for being blunt, eh?” Taehyung is not sure if he wants to chit-chat with the man, so he shrugs. “He is shameless, yes.”

Jinwook offers them beers, smiling down at Taehyung before sitting and sipping his own. “Well, I didn't know you wanted to know about me,” Jinwook takes a thoughtful sip of his drink, “you could have asked ages ago. Well,” he nods, “my story is boring but if you want to know...”

TW//

A/N - Do not pass insensitive jokes or comments about these heavy, triggering topics in the quotes, please. Thanks.

Jinwook sits, his eyes have a look of something far away. As if he is looking back on his past and clearly not enjoying it. “I grew up with my father after my mum died. We were, let's just say, filthy poor. My dad was handicapped and illiterate. So, he struggled with jobs…”

“There were days we would go without food,” Jinwook looks down at his hand, “you can imagine about our shelter. Streets, back alleys, running from cops. My childhood memories are filled with me stealing food from markets, getting beaten up if caught, and all that, really.”

“One day I got caught by a motel owner, stealing from his pantry and he took pity on me,” Jinwook smiles at the memory, “I started working there since I was seven. There, after a month or so, I met Mr. Jeon. Jungkook's dad,” Jinwook looks up at Jungkook, “I waited on him.”

Jinwook hums, “he asked me about my life. If I had a family or not. Gave me a card. Told me to come to his house with my father because he had a job for me,” Jinwook shrugs, “my father was ecstatic. Everyone knew Mr. Jeon in this country. We visited him the very next day.”

“My job was described to me,” Jinwook smiles, “I have to be Jeon Jungkook. His son.” Taehyung blinks, his eyes finding Jungkook who is sitting there with his eyes fixed on Jinwook. Taehyung looks back at Jinwook. The man nods at his confusion. “He wanted to keep Jungkook safe.”

“Now, one thing about the Jeons, is,” Jinwook winks at Taehyung, “they love fiercely and protects what's theirs with everything. For their loved ones, Jeons can ruin anything and anyone else. Mercilessly. I was to be Jungkook, so Jungkook can live an anonymous life. A safe life.”

Jinwook grips the beer bottle in his hand, “Mr. Jeon and his organization was the top most organization in the Asian underworld. His heir was the target of many because everyone knew just how much Mr. Jeon loved the said son. So, he always hid Jungkook from everyone, but it was +

“getting tough with time. So, this plan. I took his place while Jungkook went abroad to finish his study under my name and identity. I was happy, you know?” Jinwook smiles at the memories, “the respect, the treatment, the lavish lifestyle. Mr. Jeon was so very kind to me.”

Jinwook's smile dims, Taehyung watches the clouds slowly crowd on his face. “Then, with time, I realized what was the fuss was all about,” Jinwook murmurs, eyes hard on his hand, “I got kidnapped from my way back home after school, and I was, well,” he chuckles, “tortured...”

“When they called Mr. Jeon, he was furious, now I think he acted really well, that part,” Jinwook nods, “but, it took time to find me,” his eyes find Jungkook, “I think, if it was Jungkook really, it won't take that long, but, oh, well, for me, it took him a week to find me.”

“Crime bosses, you know?” Jinwook hums, “they are the actual rulers. They fear no one and nothing. Their moral compasses are just,” he makes a face, “broken. I was used, there was a sick thrill in their eyes when they thought they got to enjoy the Jeon heir.” Taehyung shudders.

“By the time I was found, I had grown out of my rainbows and tinted glasses,” Jinwook looks pale, “I was eight, but I felt like I grew up. I knew what was all that pampering for. For these hassles. When I will be sacrificed, so Jungkook can live a safe and happy life.”

“It got worse with time,” Jinwook whispers, “I was targeted more than I would have thought. I accompanied Mr. Jeon to many places, where I witnessed so many fucked up things for being a child. I was fifteen when I first overdozed,” Jinwook snorts, “to numb myself to everything.”

“Drinks, drugs, dolls,” Jinwook hums, “I was given everything. Freely. Mr. Jeon never held me back. He didn't care enough. Jungkook came back once he was twenty,” Jinwook watches Jungkook, “and, took the rein from my hands. Thank God, I was to be his shadow since then.”

Jinwook's smile is tender, “Jungkook heard it all from me. He didn't know shit here. He took it upon himself to find those bastards, each one of them,” Jinwook lets out a shudder, “some were involved in human trafficking. Some are in drugs. Jungkook pulled his trigger on them.”

“It felt nice to have a person who got your back, you know?” Jinwook murmurs, “he was twenty, so was I. We were inseparable. He found every person in the underworld who caused me harm and got rid of them for me. Because,” Jinwook's eyes glisten, “we were friends. He said.”

“My dad knew what was happening to me,” Jinwook swallows, looking away, “he could not do anything but suffer in silence. Drowned in his own guilt for getting me here. He was dying day by day as he watched me go down the drain like that. Jungkook apologized to him for it all.”

“An apology was the bare minimum I could do,” Jungkook whispers, looking at his own hands, head bowed, “it did nothing to erase the amount of horror you went through.” Jinwook reaches, squeezing Jungkook's hand, “you tried. You did more than enough, bud. I will never forget it.”

“My father,” Jinwook looks at Taehyung, “was on his deathbed when he made Jungkook promise that I will never go back to that life again. That, I will never pay for my past and he will bury it. Anyhow. It will never be talked about or discussed. So, I can live freely. Normally.”

“Well,” Jinwook gives a pointed look at Taehyung, “as normal as it can get. I was an addict by then. I was losing myself to drugs and dolls in those brothels. Jungkook would drag me home, every night. He would get into a fight with the others to get me away from those brothels.”

“On one of those nights, he met you,” Jinwook whispers, “you were brought in, and you were a case of trafficking too. No?” Taehyung looks away, giving a soft nod. Jinwook hums, “so, that's where you met and Mr. Jeon wasn't happy about it. He wanted you gone. You see…”

“Dolls are better left in the brothels, enjoyed and discarded, not to be wedded and showcased in the high society,” Jinwook murmurs, “his words. Not mine. So, he did everything to get rid of you. I think you left after seeing me in bed with Jungkook?” Taehyung does not answer.

Jinwook hums, “that night, Jungkook and I came home late. Jungkook went to sleep, and my shirt was drenched in blood,” he snorts, “you know, us, so I went to shower and came back to just lie down a little. I had a headache, I don't know when I fell asleep.” Taehyung frowns...

“There were condoms and...” Taehyung pauses when Jinwook arches a brow with a teasing smile. “That man planted a fake son, Taehyung,” Jinwook whispers, “he can't plant a few fake condoms?” Taehyung looks at Jinwook and back at Jungkook, “so... that was it? It was a set up?”

“Why didn't you tell me all this back then?” Taehyung demands, “why didn't you-” “Because, I promised,” Jungkook murmurs, eyes on Taehyung, “because, I promised to not about Jinwook and his past. I couldn't break it.” Taehyung gapes, “it ruined us! Whatever we had!”

Jungkook's jaw ticks, “I couldn't break the promise.” “No, he wanted you gone,” Jinwook says, making them both look at him. Jinwook leans back on his couch, nodding, “yes. He wanted you gone. He fell in love,” Jinwook's eyes find Jungkook, “you are a Jeon, Jungkook. Come on.”

“What?” Jungkook frowns. Jinwook nods, smirks, “you can't care less about a promise. You are a Jeon. You don't care about others or their feelings. You got ahead and fell in love with Taehyung, and then you panicked. Because, you knew what his life will be in the underworld.”

“You found those men for me because you wanted to erase them, not for me,” Jinwook's smile turns grim, “because, you didn't want to leave a trace of proof behind of my abuse. If I ever get a hold of the law and get you arrested. You just wanted to erase them for your own good.”

“You just always feared that Taehyung will have the same fate as me, and you wanted to push him away,” Jinwook laughs, “didn't you? You were so worried about him all the time. You forgot how to laugh, how to enjoy your time, it was Taehyung, Taehyung, Taehyung!”

“But, he wasn't meant for you, was he now, Jungkookie?” Jinwook sneers, “that night, in that brothel, he was my bet!” Jungkook stares, “what the fuck are you talking about?” Jinwook nods, snarls, “he was mine! I saw him and went there to get him for myself. You ruined it!”

“I lived your life!” Jinwook hisses, “I got your life's every bitter taste, and you always came in to scoop away the sweet ones?!” he gets up, thunderous, “I was ruined for you, and you were always thriving in front of my eyes! You got him when he was supposed to be mine!”

“I am Jeon Jungkook!” Jinwook screams, “I get to have your position. Your dolls! Your Tae!” he looks at Jungkook with disgust, envy clear in his eyes, “your empire is mine! Your doll is mine too! You are a nobody who should have stayed away! I suffered my entire life for you!”

Jungkook gets up, “are you having one of your episodes, wook?” Jinwook giggles, “maybe? But, I am telling the truth. I have planted those doubts in Tae's head for you. I made it a point to make it look like we were a thing. I always called you when you were with him.”

Jungkook grits his teeth, “Wook, calm down-” “No!” Jinwook shouts, “no, I am not mad! Listen to me, carefully, you nobody, I am Jeon Jungkook! He is mine!” Jungkook gulps, “okay, okay. You are Jungkook. He is yours. Can you sit down now?” Jinwook grasps Taehyung by his wrist.

Taehyung cries out, terrified, “Jungkook!” Jungkook's hands flex, “Jinwook, you won't be able to get away. Yoongi is right outside-” “I built up my own family under your nose, Jungkook,” Jinwook smirks, “they work for me. So many of them. The ones you and your father wronged.”

“Yoongi will never choose you,” Jungkook murmurs, eyes steady on Jinwook, “he is loyal to a fault.” Jinwook sneers, “you would think so! He is in my team, you idiot! I went upstairs to call my force. They are surrounding my villa and clearing your tracks of coming here.”

“I had to get you here, baby,” Jinwook murmurs, his face near Taehyung's nape, “you need to sit and watch me enjoy your doll.” Taehyung screams, fear seizing him, when he feels the gun against his hip and those lips against his neck, “Jungkook!” “That's me!” Jinwook snorts.

The door opens, Yoongi walks in, “boss, the work is done. Everyone knows we drove off the road, and the vanity is compromised.” Jinwook looks at Yoongi, “the bodies?” Yoongi smirks, “got them arranged.” Jinwook laughs, “good. Good, Yoongi. Good! Now, help me here.”

Yoongi nods, coming over to Jungkook with his gun raised, “on your knees.” Jungkook goes, his eyes on Taehyung. Taehyung trembles, tears rolling out of his eyes. He watches Yoongi handcuff Jungkook. “Namjoon needs access to the security system,” Yoongi says, “grant it, boss.”

Jinwook nods, “do it. The security system in on that laptop.” Yoongi looks at Jungkook, “this is for the time you humiliated me in front of Taehyung.” Jungkook hisses when Yoongi slams his head down on the marbled floor. Jinwook laughs, ecstatic, as Jungkook curses in pain.

Yoongi walks over to the system while Jinwook turns Taehyung's face with a hold on his chin. Taehyung shivers when he sees the look in Jinwook's eyes. His insides churning. “I have always wanted you, baby doll,” Jinwook whispers, “imagined you while I got off or f'cked others.”

The alarm goes off and Jinwook looks over at Yoongi, “what's going on?” Yoongi curses loudly, “Jungkook's men, Hoseok and Jin found got a whiff. They are by the gate!” Jinwook shoves Taehyung towards the stairs, “get our men there. They shouldn't be able to get inside!”

Jinwook cuffs Taehyung to the staircase's railing and goes over to Yoongi to see the commotion. “Why is the gate opening?!” Jinwook shouts as soon as he goes near the monitor, “and, why are there so many cars?!” Yoongi makes a face, “because, you are overpowered.”

Jinwook gapes, “what...?!” “I said,” Yoongi bolts upright and grabs the gun from Jinwook, in a bat of an eye, he has it pressed against Jinwook's head, “you are overpowered, you idiot.” Jinwook gapes, “what-” “You thought I will never know?” Jinwook whips around, eyes wide...

Jungkook is getting up from the floor, “you did well. I must say, you planned it well. But,” Jungkook works his wrists out of the handcuff, dropping it carelessly on the floor, “you are stupid to think I would never get a whiff. You know?” Jinwook shakes his head, “no. N-no...”

Jungkook goes to Taehyung first, kneels in front of him. He takes a hold of the cuffs, “Yoongi.” Yoongi shoves his hand in Jinwook's pocket and gets the key before throwing it, and Jungkook uncuffs Taehyung. Taehyung shivers when Jungkook takes his bruised wrists in his hands.

The man rubs his thumbs over those bruises, peeling skin, “you made a mistake of offering the proposal to Yoongi.” Jinwook stares at Jungkook, while Jungkook stares at the bruise on Taehyung's wrists. “Yoongi and I fight,” Jungkook chuckles, “but, I trust him with myself.”

“He agreed, so you don't blow up before we get the time to set our plan right,” Jungkook swallows, “I know about your episodes. I didn't trust you enough, so the moment I knew you planned all this, I had to take Taehyung back to my place. For safekeeping. So, I did.”

“I had to make sure you are not triggered before I have it all sorted,” Jungkook murmurs, “today, everything was planned. We planted our men and took down yours even before you reached home. You didn't notice. You are not keen enough to remember faces. You never do.”

“You got reckless with the thought of incoming victory,” Jungkook gets up, “you forgot,” he smirks at Jinwook, “I always come to turn the table of your fate when it involves Taehyung. No?” Taehyung flinches back when Jinwook lets out a cry, leaping for Jungkook in his rage.

“He is mine!” Jinwook shouts, a knife in his hand, “he is mine!” Taehyung watches the knife slice down the back of Jungkook's raised arm. Blood seeping out from the gash and soaking up the sleeve of Jungkook's shirt. Jungkook knees Jinwook, kicking the knife out of his hand.

Before Yoongi can take a hold of him, Jungkook kicks him in the stomach, making Jinwook roll away. Jungkook lets Yoongi put a handcuff on him, steps back. “He will always be mine!” Jinwook shouts, thrashing on the floor, “I will have him. He will be mine!” Jungkook snorts.

He kneels by Jinwook's face, where Yoongi has him pressed against the floor. “He is on his own,” Jungkook murmurs, “as you said, I got him and I freed him,” Jungkook pats Jinwook's head, “I'll free you too. From your misery. You did so much for me. Let me do this much for you.”

“What do you mean-” Jinwook trembles, “what do you-” Jungkook gives him a lopsided smile, “when your pet loses its mind, you put it down,” he caresses Jinwook's face, “I will put you down now. Your doctors said, you can't be helped.” Taehyung shivers, hugging himself.

Jungkook leans in to match Jinwook's eyes, “I will make sure in the future people know you as nothing but a good person,” he rubs Jinwook's head, “Yoongi,” Jungkook gets up, holding out his hand. Taehyung's eyes widen, “what are you-” “Go out,” Jungkook says, “wait outside.”

Taehyung feels cold. He looks at Jinwook and back at Jungkook. They are looking at each other. Taehyung whimpers, shaking his head. “Not for me,” he begs almost, “not because of me.” Jungkook takes the gun from Yoongi, eyes stuck on Jinwook's face, “not for you. For him.”

“Go outside, Taehyung,” Jungkook holds the gun up, pointed, “it's time, he rests in peace.” Taehyung dashes outside, bile rising to his throat. He sees Jin and Namjoon by the door. Guarding. He runs to Jin and Jin pulls him in a hug. Taehyung cries out when the gun is fired.

a/n - I know he deserved treatment. He didn't really get the justice he deserved because, I know he needed help. But, as I said, this story will not be perfect and the characters will not make 'perfect/right' decisions. I hope you proceed after reading the tags.

Taehyung watches Jungkook come out of the house. He watches, immobile, how Jungkook's eyes are red. They, Taehyung realizes, are moist. Jungkook wipes them, blinking back rapidly. He stands by the door, as if controlling himself. The gun in his hand trembles, falls on the ground

Taehyung watches Jungkook's lips tremble next, those eyes tearing up all over again. He stands there and watches, for the first time, Jeon Jungkook break down. Yoongi walks out, his face set in stone. He stands by Jungkook's side while Jungkook slowly succumbs on the floor.

Taehyung holds his breath as he witnesses the kingpin's misery. Jungkook cries in his hands, loud sobs breaking out of him. Yoongi blinks, forcing himself to stay steel. Taehyung can't. He can't stand and watch. He runs up those stairs to kneel beside Jungkook.

“He was my friend,” Jungkook sobs, “I tried everything. I took him to rehabs, I took him to doctors, I,” his hands tremble, “I was so happy when his reports were clean. Apparently he forged them. I died every day with the guilt of what happened to him. I put himself before me!”

“I cleared his records when he killed his own father,” Jungkook murmurs, “because he hated how his father got him in this life. I cleared his record when he killed the ones he slept with. Calling them used goods. Good for nothing. I put up with him for so long!”

“But, I thought he got better. He was improving, he didn't go to the brothels for months and I was happy,” Jungkook grits his teeth, “now, I know, he was planning to get you,” his hands curl in fists on his lap, “now it makes sense. He wanted to be sober for this. Shit!”

Jungkook looks at Taehyung, “that night, in that auction, when I got you,” Jungkook murmurs, “I wanted to free you. Free you from a life of misery, but like a fool, I got involved with you. I got so obsessed, I married you,” his lips curl, “I should have known better.”

“Should have known that if I wanted you, then he would want you more,” Jungkook swallows, “I should have known better.” Taehyung wipes his own eyes, words failing him as he sits there. His hand on Jungkook's shoulder. Jungkook wipes his eyes, looks at Yoongi, “the car?”

Yoongi nods, “awaits.” Jungkook looks at Taehyung, “go,” he whispers, “Hoseok is already in the car. He will take you.” “Where?” Taehyung murmurs, hesitant. Jungkook doesn't look at him, “to your life now. There will be some guards though. Just ignore them.”

Jungkook combs his hair, fingers catching in them and pulling some strands down to his face. “Jimin will join you by the next stop,” Jungkook murmurs, looking away, “you are free. I will keep my guards on post, but nothing more will happen. I assure you.”

Jungkook looks over his shoulder at the inside of the room, “this is my life. I will be found on the floor of someone's room someday too,” he chuckles, “until then,” he looks at Taehyung, “I will try my best to mend the mistake I made by ever touching you.” Taehyung swallows.

Jungkook's eyes wander over Taehyung's face, “I wish I never met you. You would have a better life-” “No,” Taehyung shakes his head, tears clinging to his lashes, “I would be auctioned off to another crimelord and used and thrown back to the brothel. So, no.”

“I got you in this underworld,” Jungkook whispers, “wrapped you up in this gossamer of crime and sin. I think you would have done better.” Taehyung watches Jungkook get up, wiping his eyes, “go now,” he says again, “I hope your mind is clear. Now you can fully move ahead.”

Jungkook's face is back to that impassive mask, this time, it's deadly. Taehyung gets up, watches how those eyes turn emotionless, void. Jungkook pushes his hands in his pockets, shoulders rolled back, “get the body out,” he orders, “and, burn this place down.”

Yoongi nods, “I will,” he smirks at Jungkook, “I love setting things on fire.” Jungkook stares at the man, “you will get your punishment for slamming my head on the floor.” Yoongi smirks, “you had it coming, boss. Yoongi serves justice. Even to you. For that day.”

Jungkook's lips twitch, “yeah, I guess, I had it coming,” he looks at Taehyung, “your things will be delivered to your house. Also,” he hesitates, rocking on his heels, “this is the last time you will see my face.” Taehyung blinks, “what?” Jungkook nods, “yeah. Hopefully.”

“I will try to keep the promise,” Jungkook gestures to Taehyung, “the car awaits.” Taehyung follows Jungkook numbly, his eyes stuck on his feet as they move. Jungkook opens the door for him, Taehyung gets in and sees Hoseok on the driving seat. He looks at Jungkook.

Jungkook looks at him, there is a lull at the moment, and the kingpin leans down. His hand reaches out and Taehyung holds his breath. Jungkook does not touch him, pulls away, offers Taehyung a small nod, “goodbye, Kim Taehyung.” He closes the door.

'Jeon Jungkook, the owner of the club chain, Euphoria, is getting married in a week.' Taehyung reads the headline on his phone, over and over again. The news is everywhere. He stares at the photos and scrolls through them. One by one. There are too many.

He watches Jungkook, fingers interlaced with the man beside him. His smile wide while he leans against Jungkook. In some, they are in parties, in Jungkook's own club. Pressed together, lips on each other, hands all over each other. Taehyung closes the site. Then his phone.

“You look sick,” Jimin observes, “what were you reading?” Taehyung leans back, eyes outside through the window of the car, “nothing.” Jimin looks out of the window too, “just…” he pauses, “don't read those. They are always exaggerating-” Taehyung chuckles, “you think I care?”

“You really think I am still in love with him?” Taehyung glares at Jimin, “I took therapy to get out of the shit I saw that day,” he trembles, “I took months of therapy. He gave me nightmare! Nightmares!” Jimin lets out a sigh, “I know.” Taehyung turns away, “good!”

“I knew him for a year before it all broke loose,” Taehyung whispers, “we are out of it for seven years now. If you really think I didn't move on in seven years,” he breathes out, “you are wrong.” “Okay,” Jimin sounds tired, “if you say so.” Taehyung's eyes burn, “I moved on.”

Jimin does not answer. Taehyung's lips tremble. He forces himself to rest, just lean back and rest. He gets out when the door of the car opens and stares at the other car that is following them. Four people in that car. Taehyung grits his teeth, marching over, “listen.”

“Tell your boss, I don't need your protection anymore!” he glares at Hoseok, “tell him to f'ck off! You hear me?! Why can't he leave me alone?! You can't possibly trail me like an obsessed prick forever?!” Hoseok sighs, “well, I get paid, and the job is uneventful. I like it.”

Jimin comes around the car too, “your partner died, no?” he wonders, leaning against the car, “didn't see him for quite a few months now.” Hoseok shrugs, “he went undercover for a mission. If he did die, rest in peace, Yoongi.” Jimin stares for a second before storming away.

Taehyung points a finger at Hoseok, “just go away, okay? I will be fine!” Hoseok looks at him, expression blank, “the moment boss gives me the order, I will be out of your hair. Trust me.” Taehyung marches inside the house, slamming the door behind himself.

That night, Taehyung dials the number. After a year. It rings. Taehyung lies on his bed, eyes on the ceiling, and listens to the ring. “Hello.” Taehyung snaps his eyes closed, his chest tightening. He grips the phone, lips quivering as his breath hitches. He hates himself.

“Get your men to stop following me,” Taehyung murmurs, “I am fine now.” The silence stretches. Taehyung bites his lower lip, eyes tracing the shadows on his ceiling. “I did,” Jungkook murmurs, “you called on time, I guess.” Taehyung frowns, “what?” Jungkook hums, “yeah.”

“The webs of Jinwook is finally sorted,” Jungkook murmurs, “all his men and all those people who knew my relation with you are finally silenced. Now,” the kingpin breathes out, “I will retreat my men. From tomorrow onwards, you will not have them around you.” Taehyung shivers.

He doesn't let himself conceal the feelings anymore. Taehyung lets himself feel the heartache. Even when Jungkook let him go, in these past twelve months, Taehyung felt like the man was around him. Those guards gave him a sick sense of satisfaction that Jungkook was still there.

Still cared. One call away. It felt like nothing can reach Taehyung. That feeling of safe place when Jungkook is the reason he needs safety in the first place. Taehyung turns on his side, face buried in the pillow, “how is he?” The question is so stupid, he cringes.

“Good,” Jungkook knows what he means right away, “he is good.” Taehyung writhes on the bed, the pain intensifying in his stomach, “good?” Jungkook's voice is soft, “gorgeous,” he lists, “good beside me. Good in other things.” “In bed, you mean,” Taehyung snorts, “say it.”

“Good in bed,” Jungkook parrots. Taehyung sucks on his lower lip, “why?” Jungkook is quiet. Taehyung grasps the pillow, “just tell me why. Give me a reason.” “You moved on, I can't?” The question strikes him right across the face and Taehyung is breathless.

“I get the reports on you,” Jungkook murmurs, “your affairs. Your life. I make sure you are fine. I work to make myself stronger in this field, so I am the only powerful man and no one else dares to even think about reaching you because they fear me. I get tired too, yeah?”

“I gave you your divorce, I let you go last year because surely you wanted it, what,” the crime boss' voice wavers for a second, “what more do you want, Taehyung?” Taehyung stares at the ceiling, “who is he?” Jungkook sighs, “you know he is a model.” Taehyung does.

Taehyung digs his nails on his pillow, warm tears soaking it up, “you love him?” The question is futile. The answer is dreaded. Taehyung still waits. “I adore him,” Jungkook murmurs, “enough to want him beside me for the rest of my life.” Taehyung chokes on his tears.

“I see,” Taehyung nods, “he has a family, eh?” he wonders, spiralling, “he has a background. A good reputation.” Jungkook's voice is tight, “what are you hinting?” Taehyung giggles, “nothing? I am just telling you how your father would have loved your second husband. No?”

“Good breeding,” Taehyung murmurs, tears thick in his eyes, “good upbringing, good money,” he chuckles, “good, good, good. No?” Jungkook is quiet. Taehyung speaks anyway, “not a filth from the brothel. Not just a beauty with no brain. Has his own cosmetics line. Successful.”

“Looks so put together beside you,” Taehyung nods to himself, “would be of work. Not a decoration in the house-” “You never were,” Jungkook stops him, “I never treated you like a decoration.” Taehyung hums, “you never took me anywhere with you. No parties, no gatherings...”

“Because, I feared they would see you,” Jungkook grits out, finally a touch of emotion in his voice, “I feared my circle. You know who were in those circles. Who are my circle. I didn't trust them around you!” Taehyung snorts, “you take him with you. I never went to your club.”

“I was locked away in your damn flat. You would come, f'ck me and leave,” Taehyung stares at the ceiling, “you take him out. There are so many pictures of you two being out. Why-” he swallows, “why wasn't I ever treated like that?” “I don't fear losing him,” Jungkook whispers.

“Shut up, shut up, shut up!” Taehyung screams, not able to handle the words, “never say shit like that!” “What do you want me to say?” Jungkook sounds resigned, “you wanted a divorce and I gave you. I thought, it would make you happy. I kept my distance because you wanted it.”

Taehyung sits up on the bed, glaring at the window that overseas the city outside. “Oh, such a gentleman! Just accept it, Jungkook,” he bows his head, tugging at his hair in frustration, “accept that you never saw me as anything but a brainless beauty too. Just accept it!”

“You went in that industry penniless,” Jungkook murmurs, “made your name in six years. You are one of the top supermodels now. You really think I believe you are a brainless beauty?” Taehyung cannot stop shaking, his limbs feel heavy. There is a buzz under his skin. He sniffles.

“I am proud of you.” Taehyung is not sure if the buzz intensifies or if he stops feeling anything for a long time. But, those five words. Those five words are everything he ever wanted to hear. In the sense of his career, work, life. He clutches the phone, tears in his eyes.

“There is a billboard of your face right in front of my company. I can see it from my office,” Jungkook murmurs, “it changes with time, new brands, luxurious brands, but your face is almost always there. You made it. You achieved your dreams. I feel so proud of you.”

Taehyung closes his eyes, words failing him. He does not want to say a word. He wants to listen. Jungkook talks, his voice comforting, just as it used to be when they were in a relationship. Married. Just when he would try to pull Taehyung out of a subspace. Gentle. Slow drawl.

“The magazines I order because you feature in them,” Jungkook murmurs, “I see how well you are doing for yourself. You didn't wash away. You stood your ground. You are still standing your ground. I respect you for that. I treated you like porcelain, you proved to be a diamond.”

“I was terrified that you won't be able to handle yourself, but you did, I am glad you did,” Jungkook swallows, “so no. Of course, you are not beauty without brain. You never were. Even then, in that brothel, you held you were terrified of your future, but you didn't break down.”

“You were gentle,” Jungkook closes his eyes, recalling Taehyung, “you were so gentle to me.” “Gentle?” Taehyung repeats. Jungkook hums, “yes. Gentle. Do you know how much strength it takes to stay gentle and kind in life when all you receive is pain? You're stronger than many.”

“You were strong when I met you,” Jungkook murmurs, “you think I wanted you because you were pretty? You were just…” he pauses, thinking, “you were so different. You were so out of my league. I mean, come on,” he snorts, “if we met on the streets, you won't even look at me.”

“You would just brush past me, the likes of me,” Jungkook chuckles, thinking, “with your gorgeous friends, good life. I will be another admirer who would stop and look at you and wish you spare a glance at me. At the kinds of me.” Taehyung gulps, looking down at his hand, “oh.”

Jungkook sighs, “so, stop thinking about that dead man's words. He is dead and forgotten. You never will be. You are leaving a legacy behind. So, stop letting him and his words get to you.” “He never did,” Taehyung whispers, “my insecurities were never with him. Never.”

“That night, in that crowd of repulsive,” Taehyung snorts, “I am judging people by their physiques. Forgive me, but,” he stares out of the window, “well, they were in a brothel, putting price on real people, they are emotionally trash too.” Jungkook coughs, “I did that too.”

Taehyung hums, “well, yeah. That's what I am getting to,” he nods, “you paid to win the bet and you didn't touch me. You were,” he does not want to voice it, but he forces himself to, “you took me out,” he sighs, “we just wandered around in your car. I was so scared.”

“I kept expecting you to take me somewhere, maybe a motel or some other place,” he blinks back tears, “to use me. Somehow. You,” he closes his eyes, “you asked if I ate something. I was feeling sick to my stomach. You got it. We had an ice-cream. I finally looked at you then.”

Taehyung thinks back, “you were the most handsome man I have seen too, you know? I would,” he shrugs, “if my life was normal, I would look at you. I would surely look at you.” Jungkook is quiet. They have never spoken about all this. Taehyung sighs, “you were good to me.”

“I am still glad,” Taehyung whimpers, “that, my first time wasn't forced as I feared when I was caught in that trafficking. I am so glad it happened because I wanted it. I am glad you paid me out of that place the next day. Before those clients started piling up.”

“You were trembling,” Jungkook murmurs, “that night, the ice-cream all over your face, and you kept apologizing as if you offended me. I could feel how terrified you were. God, I remember when I dropped you off at the brothel that night, you were so terrified to get inside.”

“I drove away but kept watching you standing in front of the brothel, staring after my car. I watched how you crumbled on the street, I watched it all,” Jungkook curses, “I had to bail you out of there. I couldn't just,” he swallows. Taehyung wipes his eyes, “I was terrified.”

“I was on the verge of begging you to take me away,” Taehyung whimpers, “on the verge of falling on your feet and begging you to just take me with you. Wherever. I would do anything. I just,” he shakes his head, “I just wanted to escape. That night, I couldn't sleep.”

“I kept praying that all my next customers were like you,” Taehyung stands up from his bed, “I kept wishing you would come back.” Jungkook hums, “I drove around the city. I didn't go home because I knew I won't be able to sleep. I got to the brothel the next morning.”

Taehyung walks outside on the balcony, “I think, I froze when they said I had a customer who got me out of there. I was sick to my stomach. Vomited all over the floor as they almost dragged me to that office. Then I saw you, and,” Taehyung sighs, “I burst out crying.”

“I remember,” Jungkook chuckles, “I thought you were disgusted. You were terrified-” “I was relieved,” Taehyung sniffles, “it was you.” Jungkook is quiet, “it was me.” Taehyung grips the railing of the balcony, sitting down, “I think I loved you since then.”

Jungkook snaps his eyes closed, tears burn behind his lids, “no,” he shakes his head, “it wasn't love. You were just relieved that I took you away from that hellhole. You,” he opens his eyes, looking out at the billboard, “did you love me when I introduced you to my life?”

“Loved me when I touched you with blood still drying on my hands?” Jungkook grits out, “for the first time?! Loved me when I told you I am not made for an actual marriage? Loved me when I wanted you to sign a contract before our wedding that you are getting paid to marry me?”

“I enjoyed the sex, if that's what you are asking,” Taehyung looks at the city, still awake, always awake, “and, if you didn't offer me money, I would,” he closes his eyes, “I would still marry you.” “Don't say that,” Jungkook's voice is icy, “I left you no choice.”

“You didn't have anyone, you didn't know anyone,” Jungkook thinks back, “you probably felt helpless. You just wanted to agree, so I keep you beside me and like a selfish Jeon, I took advantage-” Taehyung frowns, “you thought I married you because I had no other options?”

“No, you didn't have another option,” Jungkook closes his eyes, “like a selfish prick, I kept you to myself. Every time I touched you, I knew you can do better. I kissed you and thought someone could kiss you better, with love, with the tenderness you deserve.”

“Every time you bruised because I held you a little tight, rough, I would think someone ought to do it better,” Jungkook gets up from his chair, walking up to the vast window in his office, “every time you smiled at me, I thought how much effort it probably took for you.”

Jungkook stares out at Taehyung's smiling face, “you smile so prettily for the camera. Because you get paid,” his heart squeezes in his chest, “this is the exact smile you would paint for me. Because, it was just that. A professional demand. You thought I would want that.”

“Every time we had sex,” Jungkook curses, “there was a part of me, that kept chanting, he doesn't want you. He bears through it because you want it, and you got him out of that shithole, and he thinks he has nowhere to go, or he owes it to you.” Taehyung blinks, “Jungkook...”

“Why would you want me?” Jungkook laughs under his breath, “I work the underworld, and you never belonged here. I kept wanting more of you, and you never denied. Because you thought you owe it to me. I knew that divorce was coming. I anticipated it. I lost my sleep over it.”

“I would tire you out in bed and hope it would be enough,” Jungkook shakes his head at his own stupidity, “I would hope sex was enough because, f'ck, Taehyung, I had nothing else to offer! I watched you and dreaded the day you would realize that too. That I was the poor one.”

“An empty shell of a person who is grasping onto your life source to stay alive,” Jungkook rubs his hand down his face, tears clinging to his lashes, “you did. The day you did, I was actually relieved. I got tired of staying up and imagining different scenarios in my head.”

“I wanted to rip the band-aid off,” Jungkook leans his head against the cool glass of the window, “so, I just agreed and let you go. It felt... nothing,” he chuckles, “I realized, I never felt shit until I was with you. Now that you were gone, in a twisted way, I was good.”

“It was like, I stopped feeling everything and it felt so good, Taehyung. That night, I slept. I slept for two days,” Jungkook laughs, “Jin came to drag me out of my bed. I realized, not feeling is a blessing. I got back on my feet and it was fine. I felt nothing, it was good.”

“The day you got a boyfriend,” Jungkook whispers, “I hoped, my first thought, he tells you he loves you because I never did.” Taehyung presses a hand over his mouth, forcing himself to not make a sound. “I hoped you were happy,” Jungkook breathes out, “finally.”

“So, no, Taehyung,” Jungkook wipes his eyes, “you were not a damn decoration to me. You were,” he pauses to gather himself, “you were the punishment the universe gave me for the pain I inflict on others.” “What?” Taehyung's voice wavers.

Jungkook hums, “yes. You were that punishment. You know, how you show a locked up person freedom? How it feels? Just to shove them back into the dark room that they grew up knowing and will always know? You were that taste of freedom to me. For that one year.”

“I tasted what happiness felt like, what love felt like, for that fraction of my life,” Jungkook murmurs, “just for the universe to snatch it out of my hands and leave me craving more for the rest of my life. You were never a damn decoration.”

“You were the light who brightened my days, but also made me see how ugly my surrounding was and always will be. In the darkness, I was good. I was blindly leading my life. You had no rights to come and show me what it could have been, just to snatch it right away.”

“But, anyway,” Jungkook lets out a long breath, “it's done now. Whatever it was. Just know,” Jungkook pauses to gather himself, “your worth is not measured by those days you spent with me or in that brothel. Your worth is what you are doing with yourself now. Stop overthinking.”

“Me, that brothel,” Jungkook shakes his head, “we were just bumpers on your roads. You went past them. Stop looking over your shoulder at them. You moved on and moved onto better things indeed.” Taehyung is not sure what to say. His throat feels tight. He feels breathless.

“Why are you marrying him? Do you love him?” Taehyung wonders. Jungkook is quiet, then he sighs, “do you really believe in this world every married couple marry for love?” Taehyung wipes his eyes, “I like to hope they do.” Jungkook snorts, “it's convenient. That's all.”

“If there was a way,” Taehyung whispers, looking down at his lap, where he sits on the floor of the balcony, “to fix things, would you take it?” The silence is long. Painful. Scary. Taehyung can hear his heartbeat. He can feel his heartache already.

“What do you mean?” Jungkook whispers. Taehyung leans against the railing, looking down, “between us,” he breathes out, “if we could mend it all, what would you do or offer that you didn't back then?” Jungkook swallows, “if this is your way of making it hurt more, Tae, I-”

“I will never move on from you,” Taehyung chokes on his tears, “so, for god's sake, tell me. Tell me, Jungkook.” “I would not lock you away like you are some damsel in distress,” Jungkook whispers, “I would tell you I love you,” he stutters around a sob, “every fucking day!”

“I would be fucking overbearing though,” Jungkook murmurs, “send at least six guards with you. Wherever you go.” Taehyung grips the railing, tears rolling out of his eyes, “yeah?” Jungkook hums, “yeah. That will never change. But, you will be free to do whatever. Of course!”

“You will come with me?” Taehyung wonders, eyes on the sky, “on my events? On those photoshoots? Would you let me introduce you as my boyfriend?” he pauses, “something more?” Jungkook agrees eagerly, “I will. I will show up unannounced. With our lunch. We will share it...”

“I will take you out on those long drives,” Jungkook feels giddy, “I own this land, Taehyung, you would rule it for me. I will stand by your side and just think I got lucky. So lucky.” Taehyung sniffles, “it will work, right?” Jungkook closes his eyes, “you tell me.”

Taehyung looks up at the stars, voices the words he used to send to those stars every night in his mind as a desperate wish. “Take me with you,” Taehyung begs, “like that night you did, take me to you. I am tired of wandering around the world, searching you in others, Jungkook.”

Taehyung sits on the balcony, the phone pressed against his ear. He is not sure how long they stay on call. Jungkook is the first one to speak, “I will see you.” Taehyung closes his eyes, “okay,” he breathes out a sigh, “okay. I will wait.” He cuts the call.

Taehyung is not sure when Jungkook will come over or if he will or if he will send someone to get him. He is not sure what he is supposed to do or how long he is supposed to wait. He goes to sit on the bed, lost in his thoughts. The clock keeps ticking. Jungkook never shows up.

Taehyung is not sure what is going on. He calls Jungkook, but there is no answer. He doesn't meet Jungkook in the next three days. There is something bubbling under his skin, something that spreads through his veins. Something cold, something that makes Taehyung anxious always.

Taehyung calls Hoseok then. He sits in his living room and dials the man's number. Hoseok picks up on the third ring, “what?” Taehyung closes his eyes, “where is he?” There is silence, then Hoseok sighs, “out of town.” Taehyung swallows, “for what?” Hoseok doesn't answer.

Taehyung hates this feeling, he hates how it's like déjà vu, “is he okay?” he finds himself asking, “just…” his voice cracks, “is he in trouble?” Hoseok lets out a long breath, “he will always be in trouble, Taehyung,” his voice sombre, “you should know that by now.”

“He is living on his extended life,” Hoseok murmurs, “at the edge. Always at the edge. You should know, we all are playing hide and seek with death or something worse.” Taehyung is not naive enough to ask what's worse than death. He knows by now. He hates that he knows by now.

Taehyung grips the edge of the mattress, “are you trying to scare me?” Hoseok chuckles, “no,” he sounds tired himself, “I am warning you. You should think everything through.” “Who told you that you have any rights to do so?” Taehyung feels frustrated, “why are you-”

“Because, I know you for some time now,” Hoseok sounds exhausted, “and, believe it or not, I care about you. I wish you stayed away. Chose a safe and better life than this. Constant worry and fear.” Taehyung swallows, “is he okay?” Hoseok hums, “he was when we last talked.”

Taehyung curses, “what do you mean?! Where is he?!” Hoseok is calm as ever, “he went to Yoongi. Yoongi got caught in his mission. We could have sent our men, but they wanted to meet Jungkook. Right away.” Taehyung feels the chill down his spine, “he went alone?”

Hoseok hums, “he went alone. I don't know when or how he will be back. When he comes back, I will let you know.” Taehyung cuts the call, dropping the phone beside him. He hides his face in his hands, with a shaky exhale, Taehyung shudders. He feels like throwing up.

----- “So… there's nothing?” Jimin asks, his voice empty, “like… no news?” Taehyung shakes his head, staring at himself in the mirror as they wait for the crew to call them for the shoot. “They can't just kill them, right?” Jimin reaches for Taehyung, unsure, “Tae-”

“I don't know, okay?” Taehyung swiftly gets up from his chair, “I don't know! Just forget it, whatever,” he waves his hand, rushing to pick up his jacket, “I don't know. Why are you so worried? I don't care. If they die, they die-” Taehyung stops when he looks at Jimin.

Jimin has that wide-eyed, pale look on his face. The look Taehyung used to have when he first met Jungkook. Every day. Whenever the man went out. He knows that look on himself. He doesn't understand the look on Jimin, though. “What's wrong?” Taehyung demands, “are you okay?”

Jimin looks away, shrugs, “yeah. I am just,” he dabs his face with a tissue, there is sweat bidding on his temple, “I am just asking.” Taehyung turns towards the door, “he will be fine. He knows how to take care of himself.” Jimin sounds lost, “yeah. He will be fine.”

Taehyung goes through another day robotically. He shoots, goes to an interview and when he goes home, he is dead on his feet. After showering, he finds himself in front of the television. He is starting a movie when the doorbell rings. Taehyung curses, getting up.

He opens the door and freezes. Jungkook looks tired, hair dishevelled, eyes droopy. The dark circles under his eyes prominent. He is wearing a black shirt that's too crinkled and the jeans is torn here and there. Taehyung stares, his heart racing in his chest.

“Won't ask me to come in?” Jungkook's voice is aimed for teasing, but it sounds exhausted. Taehyung steps back silently and Jungkook walks in. His eyes skim over the living room before he looks at Taehyung again. “I didn't come to stay,” he tries to smile, “I will leave soon.”

Taehyung hesitates by the door. Jungkook nods, gestures for Taehyung to close it. “Are you okay?” Taehyung takes a step towards the man. Jungkook nods, looking away from Taehyung, “I am fine,” his shoulders tense, “Yoongi is not. So, I have to leave soon.”

“What is going on?” Taehyung reaches tentatively, placing a hand on Jungkook's shoulder, “Jungkook...” Jungkook looks at him then, “nothing-” “We are not going down this path all over again,” Taehyung warns, “you have to let me in, Jungkook. If you want anything with me.”

Jungkook's eyes momentarily close, then he is looking back at Taehyung. “Yoongi is still missing,” Jungkook combs his hair back, there is tension clear on his face, “there are some disturbing proofs indicating, he might not be,” he shrugs, “I am trying to find him, or his body.”

Now, Taehyung is not sure if he wanted to know this or not. He clutches Jungkook's hands in his, already feeling dread fill his stomach. “Are you going alone?” he urges, “wherever it is, are you going alone?” Jungkook looks at him, “they want me to bring a few things. Alone.”

“I will be fine,” Jungkook cups the side of Taehyung's face, “you have to trust me. I will be fine.” “How can you ever be fine?” Taehyung whispers, more to himself than Jungkook, “how can this life ever be fine? I will always worry. Every waking hour. No?” Jungkook is silent.

Taehyung thinks to himself, “every day you leave for work, I will be worried. Every day I will be worried until you come home. This will never change. No?” “No,” Jungkook shakes his head, voice calm, “I will always be in danger, and it will always be a problem between us.”

“I am not going to leave this underworld,” Jungkook looks away, “I don't want to. But, I also don't want you to join in if you are going to worry constantly. You can still say no. This can still go back to how it was for the past few years.” Taehyung is thinking about it.

Jungkook turns on his boots, “I will go then,” he starts towards the door, “I just dropped by to check up on you and-” Taehyung reaches to grasp Jungkook's wrist, “when do you have to leave?” “Depends,” Jungkook looks over his shoulder, “what's your answer about us?”

Taehyung steps up to the man, his forehead resting against Jungkook's shoulder. “I'll always worry,” he whispers, “even when we were not together, I worried about you,” he gulps, “might as well be with you so when everything is done, you come home to me, or, we have some peace.”

“I don't want to be stupid,” Taehyung hugs the man from behind, “like all those years ago. So, now you have to let me in. You have to tell me where you are, what you are doing. I need to know everything, but,” he turns Jungkook to face him, “I want to be with you. I always will.”

Taehyung's eyes wander over Jungkook's face, “we might be playing hide and seek with death and I would probably like a more stable life, but I get your point, okay? I know that you are winning against death because you have your control here. I won't want you to leave that. No.”

Jungkook lets out a breath, “this is my world,” he sounds pained, “I know, it's risky, it's dangerous but I have lived in this world my entire life and I know how to deal with it all. I don't think I will survive or be much of a use outside of this.” Taehyung gets that.

“If you give us a chance,” Jungkook takes Taehyung's hands in his, “this will be your life too. Are you okay with it?” Taehyung shrugs, “I am,” he steps up to Jungkook, “I know what I am signing up for.” Jungkook's lips twitch, “and, you think it's worth it?” Taehyung nods.

“Maybe,” Taehyung shrugs, “I am a little fcked in the head too.” Jungkook gives him a tender look, “maybe I am responsible for that.” Taehyung bites on his lower lip, “surely. I grew up in a perfectly normal family. It's all your fault. You ruined me. I would say.”

Jungkook's eyes are sharp, something gleams in them. His hands come to rest on Taehyung's hips. “I take full responsibility, doll,” Jungkook's eyes flicker from Taehyung's eyes to his lips. Taehyung holds his breath when Jungkook leans in to press a soft kiss against his lips.

Jungkook pulls back right away, as if to gauge Taehyung's reaction. As if to check if Taehyung is fine with it or not. Taehyung loops his arms around Jungkook's shoulder, fingers grasping at Jungkook's hair and pulling him in for a deep kiss. After seven long years.

Taehyung whines when he tastes the tobacco and whiskey on Jungkook's tongue. The sense of déjà vu fills him up. He is back to those days. His fingers curl on Jungkook's long hair, tugging at them. Jungkook hums, “still taste so sweet, doll.”

Taehyung bites Jungkook's lower lip in petulance, earning a chuckle from the elder. “You didn't change at all, kitten,” Jungkook pulls back to look at him, “all snarky and cute.” Taehyung feels his face heat up, “when do you have to leave?” Jungkook sighs, “in a few hours.”

Taehyung nods, “okay, go and shower,” he looks at Jungkook's clothes, “I will get you something to wear.” Jungkook gives a small smile, “okay.” Taehyung watches the man go, and then he is turning to go to his bedroom and find Jungkook some clothes.

Taehyung wants to ask about the fiancé. What happened to him. But, he figures, he can wait. He leaves those clothes on the counter and goes to the kitchen to heat up the food he had left in the fridge by his cook. Jungkook comes back wearing Taehyung's T-shirt and jogger.

There is something homey about the way Taehyung's clothes fit Jungkook. The T-shirt a little stretched around the chest and arms. The jogger fitting perfectly. Jungkook sits on the stool, “I talked to him,” he waves his hand when Taehyung gives him a quizzical look, “Chinhae.”

Taehyung grips the spatula in his hand, looking at the frying pan, “oh?” Jungkook hums, “we broke it off the night you and I talked,” he combs his damp hair back, “so,” Jungkook has his eyes fixed on Taehyung, “you don't need to worry about that.” Taehyung nods, “he is fine?”

Jungkook nods, “he is. It was just for some convenience, as I told you. He is fine.” Taehyung lets out a sigh of relief, “okay. I mean, I knew you would take care of it, but, I was worried a little.” Jungkook gives a small nod, “I knew you would. I should have told you sooner.”

The silence is awkward. There is so much Taehyung wants to talk about, and there is so much he wants to listen from Jungkook. But, they both just stay there, in silence. Taehyung serves the plates and Jungkook carries them to the tea-table where he opens Netflix for them.

“Are you going to move in with me?” Jungkook asks as they sit down side by side. Taehyung risks a glance at the man, “isn't that too soon?” Jungkook shrugs, “I will keep my guards around here then.” Taehyung thinks about it, “it's better. For me to stay here for now. No?”

Jungkook looks at him then, “whatever you choose, doll,” he shrugs, eating, “it's on your terms this time.” Taehyung gives a small, tentative smile, “first, work on this case of yours. Find Yoongi, or,” he swallows, “his body. Then we can decide.” Jungkook nods, “okay.”

That night, when Jungkook leaves, he kisses Taehyung. Taehyung stands by the door as he watches Jungkook get inside the lift. He closes the door behind himself and goes to sleep with a somewhat light but also worried heart. The nagging feeling of what ifs still there.

---- It doesn't take long. Maybe a week or so. Jungkook calls him. Telling him things are fine. Taehyung doesn't ask if Yoongi was found, or he is dead. He doesn't have the guts to face the answer yet. “Want to meet up tonight?” Jungkook wonders. Taehyung hums, “sure.”

Days pass in a blur. Jungkook takes him out on those fancy dates. Some are so expensive, Taehyung rolls his eyes and Jungkook gives him a careless shrug. “Get used to it,” Jungkook whispers, they are slow dancing at a jazz club, “I will spoil you with everything I have.”

Taehyung is not sure when their kissing turned into making out, and it turned into sex. He wakes up one morning in Jungkook's bed, on his back. Jungkook is sleeping on him, head resting on Taehyung's chest, arm thrown over Taehyung's waist. Taehyung looks down at the man.

He curls his fingers in those long locks of hairs, smiling faintly at the elder, who is fast asleep. Taehyung hugs the man closer, lips buried in Jungkook's hair. Jungkook squirms, nose scrunching up as he feels Taehyung's hold. “Good morning,” Taehyung whispers.

Jungkook blinks, burying his face against Taehyung's neck with a pleased hum. “Good morning,” he leaves a soft kiss there, “kitten.” Taehyung winces when Jungkook reaches to squeeze his ass, “not there,” he swats Jungkook, “not after last night. No.” Jungkook chuckles lazily.

“What's your plan today?” Taehyung asks, comfortably pulling the duvet up till his chin, “it's Sunday.” Jungkook agrees, “not that our line has Sunday offs,” he gives Taehyung a teasing smile, “I am taking the day off.” Taehyung smiles, “good. We can sleep the day away.”

They do exactly that. Cuddle the day away on bed. Getting up around afternoon to shower and have some food. Taehyung knows there will be days where he will not see Jungkook for hours, maybe days or weeks, but he will take that for days like these. These little breaks.

He sits on Jungkook's lap, the man's arms wrapped around him, and thinks he will be fine at the edge. He looks at Jungkook, and Jungkook is already looking at him. The kingpin's eyes are heavy on Taehyung's face. “I love you,” Jungkook murmurs, “I am in love with you.”

Taehyung turns in Jungkook's arms, hugging the man to himself, “I love you too,” his words come out heavy too, “I am in love with you too.” Jungkook holds him closer and Taehyung is glad. He buries his face against Jungkook's neck and sniffles.

“How soon is this to ask you to move in with me?” Jungkook wonders. Taehyung smiles, looking at the man, “I don't know about time or rules, but I would love to move in with you.” Jungkook breathes out a sigh of relief, “oh, thank god,” he nods, eager, “thank you.”

Taehyung turns back towards the screen, where Jungkook is playing a documentary on National Geography. A Wandering spider is making webs, carefully building up a safe place around itself. Taehyung watches it, watches how it protects the spiderlings. He stares at it.

“Do you want me to change the channel?” Jungkook wonders, “anything else?” “No,” Taehyung shakes his head, “not at all,” he smiles at the man, “it's fine.” Jungkook hums, going back to holding him. Taehyung's phone beeps and he picks it up, giving it a glance.

'Status?' Taehyung gets up, goes to the kitchen to get himself some water. He leans against the counter, watching the kingpin from the back. He types out a reply. 'He is home,' he looks at Jungkook, 'get them.' The next ping makes him smile. 'Thanks, officer Kim.'

Taehyung stares at the man's back. Seven years. He has given seven years of his life to this undercover project. Finally, the Phoneutria, as they call Jungkook, is caught in his own web. Taehyung goes back to cuddle Jungkook. Jungkook looks down at him with a smile.

“You look tensed,” Jungkook observes. Taehyung laughs, shaking his head, “me?” he lets out a deep breath, burying his face against Jungkook's neck, “oh, baby, finally I am relaxed.” Jungkook's arms tighten around him and Taehyung closes his eyes. 'Finally, it's over.'

Taehyung gets the call around midnight. He answers it right away, ready for the operation to go down. “Yes?” The officer on the other end sounds stressed, “the warehouse is empty.” Taehyung frowns, getting up from the bed, “what do you mean, there should be those shipments!”

The officer, Sungho, curses, “no, Kim, there's nothing here!” Taehyung kicks his bed, “the other warehouse. We are going for two, right?!” Sungho hums, “officer Lee isn't coming through. I will let you know. Just stay alert! Do you know where Jeon is? Do you have eyes on him?”

Taehyung combs his hair off his forehead, frustrated, “he is home. He said, he would go home.” Sungho shouts something at someone, “I will call you later. Just stay by the phone!” Taehyung stares at the blank screen when it's over. He feels the anxiety settle on slowly.

Taehyung is not sure how long it takes before his phone buzzes again. He doesn't know the number. With a curse, he picks it up. “Hello?” There are some muffled noises, and then he hears the voice, “hello, baby doll.” Taehyung frowns, “Jungkook? Whose number is it? Where are-”

“Taehyung!” Jimin's scream makes Taehyung falter, the chill running down his spine, “Tae!” the more Jimin screams, the more numb Taehyung feels. “What did you do?” Taehyung whispers. When no answer comes, Taehyung shouts, “what did you do?!” Jungkook chuckles, “nothing. Yet.”

“Yoongi is eager and reckless though,” Jungkook murmurs, “he might slip.” Taehyung sits down on the bed, “you said, he was gone-” Jungkook laughs, “yes, that was a lie, you see. To stall you.” Taehyung swallows, “you knew.” Jungkook hums, “oh, I knew for years now.”

“What do you want?” Taehyung demands, “what the hell do you want?” Jungkook sounds entertained, “Hoseok will be downstairs. Take the car. Follow every instruction he gives, and your dear friend will-” “Die anyway,” Taehyung closes his eyes, “he is not going to live. I know.”

“Yeah,” Jungkook tusked, “he saw too much. Now, I can't let him walk away.” Taehyung feels the burn behind his eyes, “well, then I don't have to follow your words.” “You do, baby doll. Death can be quick or painful. By following my orders, you will decide that for your friend.”

“You can inform your squad and let them follow you to me, but,” Jungkook gives a short laugh, “when they reach here, I will be gone. So will be your friend,” he pauses, “and, your family.” Jungkook cuts the call. As if he knows Taehyung will follow his orders.

His family. His mother and a younger brother. Taehyung hasn't seen them face to face for seven years now. A few letters, a few photos shared. He closes his eyes and gets up. As a robot, he goes down to the car that awaits. Hoseok holds up a cuff, face blank, “wear it.”

Taehyung wears it, looks at Hoseok who is looking back at him. “Pull a stunt and I will empty my gun on your pretty face,” Hoseok smiles, “his order. Not mine.” Taehyung gets in and Hoseok chains him to the seat, just in case. Then the car runs through the dark.

“I have to tie your eyes here,” Hoseok stops the car at a narrow lane. Taehyung sits there for ages, blindfolded, before the car comes to a stop. Taehyung is pulled out of the car and tugged up a few stairs. When the blindfold is pulled off, Taehyung winces.

His eyes find Yoongi first. The man is pouring himself a drink, making a face as he tastes it. As if he is at a bar, enjoying some evening out. Taehyung lurches when he sees Jimin on the couch. Tied and unconscious. Hoseok has a hold of him, though, “now, now. No moving.”

Yoongi smacks his lips, taking a sip of his drink, “he is alive,” he flips his hand, “no need to go all mother hen on him.” “What did you do?” Taehyung wonders, eyes scanning the shirt Jimin is wearing, torn here and there, “what-” “He struggled,” Yoongi shrugs, “his fault.”

Taehyung whips around when he hears the footsteps. His eyes move around the unknown place until he looks at the staircase and sees Jungkook come down. Behind him is Namjoon and Seokjin. Jungkook is calm as ever, his eyes set on Taehyung. Hands in his pockets. Walk slow.

Taehyung thrashes, trying to get out of Hoseok's clutch, but Hoseok grabs him in place. Jungkook sits on the couch, carelessly reaching out and pulling Jimin's head to rest on his lap. Taehyung watches, breathless, how the kingpin's hand traces patterns on Jimin's cheek.

“Such a pretty face,” Jungkook talks, as if to himself, “it would be a waste to just get rid of him,” he hums, looking at Yoongi, “we can use him. No?” Yoongi's eyes trace over Jimin with a slow smirk, “surely.” Taehyung does not lose his temper or nerves. He just stands there.

Jungkook looks at Taehyung, “you are thinking what can you offer me for me to let him go. No?” Taehyung shakes his head, “I can't offer you shit. I lost the gambling the moment you figured it out. I want to know when.” “The day you asked for divorce,” Jungkook smiles.

Taehyung blinks, “so... why did you wait seven years to do something about it?” Jungkook shrugs, “I kept an eye on you. You did not go back to the police as I expected. You kept up the pretence. I wanted to wait and see why,” he rubs his thumb over Jimin's lower lip, “why?”

Taehyung watches how carelessly Jungkook plays with Jimin's lower lip. Tugging at it, folding it. He looks at the man and back at Jimin. There is something derogatory about the way Jungkook plays with Jimin. Something of a power play, a show. It irks Taehyung, gets to him.

“Would you answer me?” Jungkook tilts his head, “or...” his hand lowers, tattooed arm wraps easily around Jimin's neck, “I can just amuse myself while you drag this out.” Jungkook snaps his finger and Yoongi comes over. Taehyung watches Yoongi pick Jimin up and sit him down.

Taehyung hisses when Yoongi throws his drink at Jimin's face, slapping him awake. Jimin whines, blinking rapidly. He looks around, confused, and then his eyes find Yoongi. Taehyung watches how relief floods in those eyes and then realization settles in. Jimin flinches back.

Yoongi takes out a knife, “would you like a tattoo, babe?” he hums, smiling at Jimin, “every second your friend over there wastes in silence, I carve a number on you. Yes?” Taehyung doesn't utter a word. He doesn't want to answer that question. Yoongi nods, “okay, then.”

Yoongi reaches, grasps Jimin's hair and jerks his face closer, “on the face?” he smirks, “would you like that?” Jimin's lips curl. Taehyung looks at Jungkook as Jimin spits on Yoongi's face. Jungkook has an amused tilt to his lips, “how do you always receive the blow, Yoongi?”

Yoongi grabs Jimin by his throat, forcing him down on the couch. The knife hovering over his face. “Now, now,” Yoongi hisses, “that was me being civil.” Taehyung curses when Jimin cries out, the tip of the knife pressing against his cheekbone. “I fell in love with you!”

Taehyung ignores how all six pairs of eyes turn to him. He focuses his eyes on Jungkook. Glares. “I fell in love with you,” he whispers, voice wavering, “that's why I wanted to leave. I took the divorce.” Jungkook arches a brow, “then, why didn't you go back to the force?”

Taehyung shakes his head, “you were following me. Your men. I wanted to blend in and when you lose interest, I would slowly slip back to my life.” Jungkook chuckles, “don't lie, Taehyung. You have created enough webs. Now untangle them for me. Don't lie.”

Taehyung licks his lower lip, nerves fried as he speaks, “if I went back, they would appoint another officer for you. You are the crimelord of Aisa. They wanted to take you down anyhow. I couldn't give up the case, knowing someone might get to you and,” he looks away...

Jungkook shakes his head, “you told your officers to find me. You sent them for my warehouses.” Taehyung looks down at the carpet, “those were empty for months now. I knew.” Jungkook is quiet, his eyes focused on Taehyung. Taehyung feels frustrated, “they found nothing!”

Taehyung's eyes burn, “I had to tell them something. They were starting to doubt me. There were doubts in the department, some were trying to take the case from me. I had to give them something!” Jungkook doesn't stop him. He keeps watching Taehyung. The stare never wavers.

“You were planning to leave the continent,” Taehyung hisses, “back then. Seven years ago. If you did, we would submit the case to Interpol and I will be free!” Taehyung furiously squirms in Hoseok's grip, “I would be forced to let go! Why didn't you leave?!”

The silence stretches. Jin is the one who speaks up. He sounds exasperated. “My god, just confess,” he rubs his temple, “I am tired.” Yoongi clicks his tongue, “if after all this ruckus, this bitch says he didn't leave that day because he fell in love too, I quit!”

Jungkook watches Taehyung, “they will come for me always. Won't they?” he gets up from the couch, “those funny, little clowns,” he chuckles, “in their funny little costumes, trying to uphold the law and kneeling for me when I feed them money. They are just that. Clowns. To me.”

“There are still people who care about the law!” Taehyung grits his teeth, “like, my commissioner-” “Is addicted to drugs,” Jungkook shrugs, “who do you think leaked your information to me?” Taehyung blinks, “wh-what…?” Jungkook hums, “I own Asia, baby doll. I rule it.”

Jungkook steps closer to Taehyung, “the gossamer is mine, baby doll. Everyone is caught in that web. I tug a string and people go down on their knees. You don't need to protect the god, do you? You kneel to him, and you pray that he protects you. I am that god. Me.”

“All you had to do was submit,” Jungkook flicks his hand, eyes never leaving Taehyung's face. Hoseok lets Taehyung go. Taehyung stumbles into Jungkook. Jungkook holds him around the waist, breath hot against his ear. “Right now, your squad is burning,” he murmurs to Taehyung.

Jungkook's eyes find Taehyung's wide ones, “all your files, the reports assigned to you, your identity as a police officer, it's all turning into ashes,” he cups Taehyung's face, “the people who assigned you this case are dead. No one would know you were a cop. Ever.”

“When you walk out of this place,” Jungkook's lips twitch, “you will be a supermodel who was found in a brothel. That's your identity.” Taehyung's arms flex as he tries to tug the cuffs off of him, “my family! Jungkook,” he cries out, “my family! What did you do?!”

“My brother,” Taehyung sobs, “my mother-” “I killed my father for you,” Jungkook murmurs, eyes never wavering from Taehyung's face, “I killed Jinwook for you too.” Taehyung shakes his head, frantic, “what did you do?! What did you do?!” Jungkook smiles, “what do you think?”

Taehyung feels tears brim in his eyes, “I never asked you to kill your father, or Jinwook. I never,” he swallows, “if you knew, who I was, why did you kill them anyway?” Jungkook's smile dims, his jaw hardening, “both had it coming.” Taehyung feels dizzy, “my family…”

“It's the perfect end of our perfect love story,” Jungkook laughs, “no? We ruined our families, ourselves for each other?” Taehyung cries, his legs feeling weak. He watches the kingpin with helpless tears in his eyes. Jungkook watches him back, “shit, I loved you. Like crazy!”

Taehyung falls on his knees, unable to hold himself up. The thought of his family gone, the thought of never seeing his mother. Never hugging his brother or seeing him… Taehyung burst out crying, sobs wrecking through him. Jungkook turns away, both hands covering his face.

“Leave,” Jungkook speaks under his breath, “they will wait for you on this address,” he pulls out a paper and throws it at Taehyung. Taehyung blinks, looking at the paper and back at the man, “wh-what?” Jungkook shrugs, “I killed my family on my own. Can't blame you for that.”

He shoves his hands in his pockets then, “but, I will never be able to trust you,” he looks up at the ceiling, “love and trust are two different emotions and I refuse to be this Jungkook again who hurts because another person is breaking. Get out.”

Jungkook walks up to the bar, pouring himself a drink, “I thought I will kill you here. No one would know where you went. You will disappear. That's why I brought you here,” he sips the drink, “but, I can't. You can't go back to the force, either. So, that. I took that from you.”

“I,” Jungkook bows his head, shoulders slumping, “I took seven years from you. That's all I get to keep,” he empties the glass, “now, leave.” Taehyung looks at Jimin, Jimin is already looking at him. Yoongi throws Jimin towards him, getting up himself, “what a waste of time.”

“I wanted to keep you,” Yoongi pouts at Jimin, “would love to see you break piece by piece,” he ruffles Jimin's hair, “but,” Yoongi straightens up, “you are too spoilt for me.” Taehyung ignores them, his eyes stuck on Jungkook's back, “where will you go? What are you planning?”

Jungkook pours himself another glass, “I will go home, fall face first on the bed and sleep. Tomorrow, I will suit up and go to my office. Then I will go home if nothing goes wrong, fall on the-” Taehyung gets up, “stop rambling!” he walks up to Jungkook, “stop being a bitch!”

Jungkook hums, “oh, right. I will fuck around, how can I forget that part?” he sits on the stool, “if I am horny. Maybe, not even horny, just to blow off-” Taehyung grabs Jungkook by his shirt, forcing the man to face him, “I said, stop rambling!” Jungkook arches a brow.

Taehyung watches the man, “I know you won't trust me anymore,” his voice cracks, “but, you have to know,” he swallows, “I love you,” he feels his vision blurring, “I didn't want to go back to the force. You didn't take it from me. You freed me. I didn't want it. Anymore.”

Taehyung cups Jungkook's face in his hands, “you have no idea how I fought every day with my morals and my feelings. You have no idea how much it hurt to love you. Then, how much it hurt to think they will hurt you. I will leave,” he takes a step back, “but, don't think I won.”

“I didn't win shit here,” Taehyung whimpers, looking away, “I am not going out of this as a winner either,” he takes another step back, “and, I will fade. I am not going back to that damn modelling. I will leave. I don't want to ever see or know about you, either. It hurts.”

“It will hurt to know where you are, what you are doing, if you are still alive,” Taehyung curses, turning swiftly on his feet, “so, yeah. If it helps, you lost your family. I lost my-” 'Myself,' Taehyung thinks... “Everything too,” Taehyung whispers.

He walks over to Jimin, picks him up, “how do we leave?” Hoseok blinks, as if breaking out of a trance, “Yoongi?” Yoongi pouts, “that's it?” he looks from Taehyung to Jungkook, “I was expecting a kiss or something. Heated make out.” Namjoon groans, “just take them back!”

Yoongi combs his hair back, shrugging, “I am drunk, clearly. Jin, take them.” Jin swats Yoongi on his nape, “it's hyung for you.” “You are just,” Yoongi curses, “three months older, really?!” Jin rolls his eyes, “Hoba, tie their eyes. Get them to the car. I will drive them.”

“I know you don't ever want to see me again,” Taehyung says when Jin and Namjoon drop them off in front of the crossroad of Taehyung's apartment, “I know you are scared of me now, or,” Taehyung blinks, looking at his feet, “hate me for dragging you into this mess. I am sorry.”

He looks at Jimin with red-shot eyes, “I have never had many friends. After joining the force, I didn't have many either,” he shakes his head, “you... I really love you as a friend and I will understand-” “Want to go to my place and have some ice-cream?” Jimin whispers.

Taehyung's lips wobble, “you'd still want to be friends?” Jimin laughs, a short, wavering sound at best, reaches and takes Taehyung's hands in his, “you went there to save me,” his eyes fill with tears, “my own father won't.” Taehyung frowns, “what?” Jimin shrugs, “come on.”

Taehyung leaves Jimin's apartment the next day to go and pack up his things in his apartment. He empties it quickly and takes the train to the address Jungkook gave him. It's a small town where Taehyung ends up, a quiet locality. The house he sees is a small one.

He rings the bell with bated breath, gripping the strap of his backpack. A sob wrecks through him when his mother opens the door. Taehyung throws himself on her, arms around her. She jumps, startled, hands around Taehyung. “Taetae?” she whispers, still in shock. Taehyung cries.

He breaks down, seven years of longing, tension, worry, anxiety, everything washing out of him. He drops to the ground, his mother holding him to her chest as he cries. “You are fine,” she whispers, tears rolling out of her eyes, “oh, lord, you are fine. I worried so much!”

“They took care of you in the force,” she whispers, checking him from the tip of his hair to his toes, “they were protective?” “They,” Taehyung's voice cracks, thinking back about the person he vowed to never think about, “they did,” he hides his face against her neck, “yes.”

She kisses him all over, cups his face, looks at him with so much love and relief, Taehyung breaks down all over again. “Where is Taegeun?” Taehyung wonders, looking around, “where-” “He went to the school,” she smiles, wiping his cheeks, “he will be home soon. Come inside.”

“We had to move when your new commissioner came in one day and informed us that our address was sacrificed,” she says, guiding Taehyung inside, “we were given this house for free. Because of your hard work.” Taehyung halts on his steps, “new commissioner?” Mrs. Kim nods, “yes.”

Taehyung grips the strap of his bag, something tightens around his throat. “Did he say anything about himself?” Mrs. Kim shakes her head, smiles, “he was a gentleman. The way he spoke,” her smile stretches on her lips, “helped us with everything. Even geun's admission here.”

“Stayed back to assure me you are fine and promised me that you will be back to me just fine,” her voice cracks, “I must say, it made me feel relieved. Your old commissioner was so dismissive. The force needs young men like him-” Taehyung blinks rapidly, looking away.

“I don't know how we will ever pay his debt,” she sighs, “he didn't even wait that day for dinner. I asked him to. I wish I could show a little respect for what he did.” Taehyung shakes his head, “I feel so tired, eomma,” he forces a smile on his lips, “can I sleep somewhere?”

Taehyung finds himself in a room, saved only for him. He locks the door, assures his mother that he will just sleep and go down for lunch. He sits on the bed, finally letting the tiredness settle in. With a long breath, he lies down on the bed on his back, staring at the ceiling.

Warm tears roll out of his eyes, slowly getting soaked in his hairline. Taehyung closes his eyes, trying not to give in. He is tired at this point. Tired of crying, tired of thinking. It all makes no sense to him anymore. He falls asleep right there, on his back.

----- “This is the fourth bag,” Namjoon comments, “you gotta rest it, boss.” Jungkook wipes his forehead, “hang it, Joon.” Namjoon picks up the punching bag and hangs it. He stands by and watches Jungkook go at it, mercilessly. Until it bursts, the sand adding to the pile.

Namjoon watches the man restlessly stare at the piled sand. Then Jungkook goes over to the treadmill. He follows, walking, while Jungkook picks up speed. “What happened to the Busan shipment?” Jungkook breathes out, eyes ahead, “Hoseok went?” Namjoon hums, “it's delivered.”

Jungkook frowns, thinking, “the clubs. How is the new drug selling?” Namjoon shrugs, “better than the last one. It's cheaper, so people buy more and using more,” he snorts, “don't care about the quality.” Jungkook nods, “right. Anything else I might want to know?”

“Taehyung started his new job as a tattoo artist in the town,” Namjoon watches Jungkook's eyes snap closed for a second, “today.” The kingpin clicks the button, slowly speeding down to completely pause and look at Namjoon. “Did I ask?” his voice icy.

Namjoon shrugs, “no, you didn't. I just shared. I knew.” Jungkook's eyes don't waver, “you know shit ton of crap about nursery and crabs and frogs and whatever. Never shared those with me?” Namjoon opens his mouth, but Jungkook holds up his hand.

“Keep it that way. Otherwise, I will shove those bonsais down your throat next time, Namjoon.” Namjoon watches Jungkook storm off with a tired sigh. He calls Jin. “It didn't work,” Namjoon rubs his temple, “he got pissed. Now, I need to hide my bonsais. I don't trust him.”

“He's not actually going to make you eat your bonsai, Joon!” Jin curses, “just… keep an eye on him. He worries me.” “Can't we adopt a puppy, and you worry about the puppy, I follow the puppy around?” Namjoon gets up, “he is scary when he's angry.” Jin hangs up on him.

“Still pissed?” Yoongi asks when Namjoon gets out of the gym, “he needs to get laid.” Namjoon gapes at Yoongi, “did you say that to him?!” Yoongi shrugs, peeling a tangerine, “yes. I told him to get laid, so he stops cock-blocking all of us.” Namjoon curses, “shit, Yoongi!”

“Did I lie?” Yoongi arches a brow, “how long has it been since you and Jin boned?” Namjoon winces, “language!” Yoongi blinks, “we are not in school. Seriously, what language?” Namjoon waves his hand, “now you have pissed him off more. I will be slaughtered because of you!”

“You go and check on your boyfriend,” Yoongi waves his hand, “I will be here with him. Just go. Have some fun before you are physically unable to get it up,” he walks casually up the stairs while Namjoon gapes at him. “Did you hear him?!” he asks Jin by the couch, “did you?!”

Yoongi goes to see Jungkook in the bathroom. He sits on the bed, eating his tangerine. When Jungkook walks out and stares at him, he shrugs. “Get ready, let's go to the brothel,” Yoongi jerks his head towards the closet, “wear something fancy. It has been ages, no?”

Jungkook just stares at him. Yoongi rolls his eyes. “What? Taken a vow of celibacy or something?” Yoongi wonders, “is that it? Never going to touch another person?” Jungkook goes to his closet, getting ready. Yoongi eats his tangerine and follows Jungkook out when he is done.

“I will find someone for you,” Yoongi says, driving, “handsome.” Jungkook looks out of the window, smoking with the windows rolled down. He doesn't indulge. Yoongi doesn't speak for the rest of the drive. “We are here,” Yoongi kills the engine, “come on. Rhapsody awaits!”

Jungkook stares at the building in front of him, he watches those windows. Closed. Some lights are on. Some are dark. He sees the people milling around, watches some peer inside their car curiously. Some wave. He stares at the doorstep. Eyes focused there. For a long time.

Yoongi lets him sit. He sits himself. They both are quiet. “Is this where you left him that night?” The question is like a slap. Hard. Right across his face. Jungkook sits up straight, eyes flickering over to Yoongi who is looking ahead. Jungkook clears his throat, “who?”

Yoongi chuckles, shaking his head, “I killed someone I loved, in one of these alleys,” he looks at Jungkook, leans his head back against the backrest, “you can share this much with me.” Jungkook stares at the man, “you... did what?” Yoongi looks away, “it's hard. Love. No?”

“I wish I had someone,” Yoongi's throat bobs, “who would sit and let me vent. Who would not try to understand or console. Who would just silently sit and let me tear myself apart until there's nothing left. I wish I had that person,” he looks at Jungkook, “so... you can have me.”

He lights a cigarette of his own, “tear yourself apart. Let yourself break. You will never be able to rebuild until you are broken into pieces first. Go on,” he closes his eyes, “talk. When you are done, we can get inside or get the hell out of here. You decide, I do.”

Jungkook lights another cigarette, leaning back. The car is silent. Yoongi doesn't utter a word. Jungkook doesn't want to. Jungkook chuckles, “I have never shared shit with anyone. I can't just press a button and start.” Yoongi nods, “we can converse.” Jungkook thinks, “okay.”

As Yoongi opens up about his past, Jungkook listens. When Jungkook starts talking, Yoongi sits there and says nothing. Just silently nodding along. “The thing is,” Jungkook rubs his face, “I will always worry,” he whispers, “about him. About his whereabouts. His wellbeing.”

“And, I will be stuck here, while he moves on,” Jungkook looks out, “and, even when I have the power, I will have to sit and watch him do so because, I want him to be happy. But, I want to carve those people's hearts out who touch him.” Yoongi snorts, “the fact that you can.”

Jungkook's lips twitch, “yeah. That power doesn't help.” There is silence again. Jungkook looks at Yoongi. “Is this why you have attachment issues?” Yoongi laughs, shrugging, “maybe? I loved her, you know? I loved her with my everything.” Jungkook snorts, “we are fucked.”

Yoongi hums, “forget about me. What are you going to do?” Jungkook watches Yoongi, “your husband knows about this? Woman?” Yoongi looks at him, pointed eyes staring at Jungkook, “yes, in fact, he does.” Jungkook arches a brow, “you would still walk in there and find someone?”

Yoongi shrugs, “we are not those proper husbands, you know it.” Jungkook hums, “I let you go then,” he waves his hand, “I will bail out though. Do you need the car or...?” Yoongi watches the building, “I can take a cab after I am done.” Jungkook nods, “works for me.”

Jungkook watches Yoongi stare at the building. His hand on the steering wheel. The wedding ring shines on his ring finger, the small diamond gleaming under those neon lights. Yoongi grips the steering wheel. Jungkook leans back, quiet and observant. Yoongi holds out the key.

Yoongi starts the car, ignores Jungkook's curious eyes, and looks over his shoulder as he retreats. Jungkook watches the man for a second before he looks out through the window. As the car speeds out of those lanes and finds the high road again, Jungkook smiles to himself.

“It's weird to think you have morals,” Jungkook murmurs. “I know you are the boss or shit, but shut the fck up,” Yoongi keeps his eyes on the road. Jungkook hums, “makes no sense. Not like they will be waiting. Not like we are cheating.” Yoongi doesn't say anything.

“Where are we going?” Jungkook frowns, watching the city pass by, “Yoongi-” “We are going out of town,” Yoongi's reply is curt, “it has been a month, Jungkook. You are not going to mope any longer. Jin will have white hair at this rate. We are going to meet Taehyung.”

Jungkook gapes at the man, “are you out of your damn mind?!” he glares, sitting up straight, “stop the car before I shoot you!” Yoongi shrugs, “do it. You did once. Let's try again. You are talking to him. This time, you are talking. I am done with you moping around.”

Jungkook curses, loud, “you don't get to decide for me!” “I can,” Yoongi nods, “I am still a few months older than you! According to Jin's rules, I am your hyung still!” Jungkook seethes, “listen, I am not going to meet him! I am not going to be that desperate. I am not-”

“He asks about you every day,” Yoongi sighs, “he has my number, and he asks about you every day. I am tired of telling him you are fine. I am tired of hearing his lifeless voice. You have to see him.” Jungkook stares, “you... you talk to him?” Yoongi hums, “he calls.”

“He,” Yoongi grips the steering wheel tightly, “I just can't cut the call when he sounds so sad. I am not that emotionally unavailable yet,” he glances at Jungkook, “he has a way of winning people over. It's hard to see him sad.” Jungkook snorts, “oh, I know. Trust me.”

“That trick he uses well,” Jungkook's lips curl, “knows how to shed those tears or widen those eyes to look innocent and sweet and helpless.” Yoongi sighs, “I know you are upset. Rightfully so. But, it won't do you any good if you are never going to be okay without him. No?”

Yoongi pats Jungkook's shoulder. “Does he know that we are on the way?” Jungkook wonders. “No,” Yoongi shakes his head, “he never asks if you ask about him or if you talk about him or not. He doesn't expect you to. I didn't tell him. If you didn't show up, it would break him.”

Jungkook looks out of the window, closing his eyes, “how is he?” Yoongi is quiet for a few moments. “Miserable,” he murmurs, “he sounds miserable.” It comforts Jungkook. In a twisted way, he feels comforted that Taehyung is not happy. Just as him. Jungkook lets out a breath.

Yoongi stops the car in front of the small house. Jungkook looks at it, back at Yoongi. “Are you telling me I need to walk through that door, meet his mother and brother and then see him?” Jungkook deadpans, “if yes, start driving.” Yoongi snorts, “you have a key. No?”

Jungkook gives him a pointed look, “you and I, we both are way past the age where we sneak in anywhere.” Yoongi makes a face, “then go and make a grand entrance. Meet your mother-in-law,” he laughs when he sees Jungkook's face, “don't cringe. That's the term. No?”

Jungkook unlocks the door, “the more I sit here, the more I would want to put a bullet through your skull.” Yoongi hums, “bow to her. She might like you better if you are well-mannered.” Jungkook sighs, “what am I doing? How can I just walk up to the house and get in?”

“Let me call him,” Yoongi pulls out his phone, “wait.” Jungkook sits, looking outside of the window, watching the neighbourhood with keen interest. “Hello?” Jungkook snaps his eyes closed, his chest tightening. He digs his nails onto his thigh while Yoongi talks. “Hi, Tae.”

“Hyung?” Taehyung sounds sleepy but alert, “what's wrong? Why are you calling this late?” there are some shuffling sound, “is everything okay?” the silence lasts after that for a second, “is he okay?” Jungkook forces the door open and gets out of the car in the cold night.

He leans against the car and lights a cigarette. The night is quiet in the neighbourhood. A dog barks in the distance. Someone has a soft tune playing somewhere. Jungkook watches the neon sign of a café. He feels drained as he stands there. Yoongi opens the window, “boss.”

Jungkook does not turn to see the man. “He will open the back door,” Yoongi's voice is light, “and, yes, I see the pun.” Jungkook turns, his gun in his hand. Yoongi curses loudly when Jungkook shoots two tiers. “Now, how would I fix that?!” Yoongi gets out, “come on!”

“Make cringe jokes like that again, I will literally blow your head next,” Jungkook marches up the lawn. Yoongi throws his hands up, “no respect for a man who drove you here and now have to sweat his ass off to get this fixed!” Jungkook flips Yoongi off as he rounds the house.

Jungkook cringes when he recalls Yoongi's words, and he walks up the steps to the house. Air whooshes out of him when he sees the back door. It's closed. Taehyung stands outside, though, a blanket wrapped around him, as if he didn't get the time to change into something warm.

Taehyung grasps the edge of the blanket in his fists, his eyes wandering over Jungkook's face when Jungkook stops in front of him. The moonlight baths them both in its soft glow. Taehyung's eyes glisten, lips parted around unsaid words. Jungkook doesn't utter a word himself.

“Sm-smoking isn't allowed inside the house,” Taehyung murmurs, voice thin, as if he is desperate to break the silence, “eomma's rules.” Jungkook arches a brow, his eyes flicker over the house and then back at Taehyung, “you follow her rules?” Taehyung nods, “yes. We both do.”

Jungkook takes the cigarette between his fingers, blowing out the smoke. “Good thing I don't really care about her rules, then.” Taehyung's lips jut out, “put it out. I care.” Jungkook takes the stick between his lips, silently watching Taehyung fidget.

Taehyung reaches the cigarette, “don't be so difficult.” Jungkook grasps Taehyung's advancing hand around the wrist, stopping him. “Why is it me who always have to play according to your wishes?” Taehyung's pulse races under Jungkook's clutch, “Jungkook...”

Jungkook inhales deeply, the smoke burning down till his chest. He steps forward, grip on Taehyung's wrist tight. He holds the cigarette between his fingers, with the same hand he cups Taehyung's face. “Why am I always running after you?” Taehyung's face contorts, “Jungkook…”

“We can stay here,” Taehyung clutches Jungkook's shirt, fearful eyes looking at him, “don't leave. We can just be outside. Yeah?” he forces a smile on his lips, “we can talk here-” “You are fucking shivering,” Jungkook looks at the man. Taehyung shrugs, “I don't mind.”

Jungkook's lips twitch with a sardonic smile. Taehyung steps closer, both hands grasping at Jungkook until his knuckles are white. “Don't leave,” Taehyung's voice waver, “if you do, take me with you.” Jungkook's chest feels tight, his throat dry. He feels the hurt settle in.

“Would you?” he arches a brow, “come with me?” he looks over Taehyung's shoulder at the house, “right now? Would you drop everything and come? If I ask? Would you just walk down to my car and let me drive you away?” Taehyung nods, not even a second needed, “yes. Yes, I will.”

Jungkook's eyes wander over Taehyung's face, “what if you never see them again?” he looks at the house again, “what if I take you too far away? What if you never get to meet them? Would you come? Leave your everything for me?” “Yes,” Taehyung's eyes glimmer, “I will.”

Jungkook chuckles, “that would be very selfish of me. No?” he looks back, “also, I kind of shot the tiers. And, knowing Yoongi, he probably is sleeping on the seat than changing the tiers himself.” Taehyung blinks, “wha-” Jungkook shrugs, “I would not ask that of you.”

- I will be back in a few minutes. Wait around like Yoongi in the car. x

Jungkook throws the cigarette on the ground and steps on it. His eyes stuck on Taehyung's face. Taehyung's throat bobs, “come inside?” Jungkook gives a non-committal shrug and Taehyung turns to lead the way. Jungkook ignores the vice grasp Taehyung still has on his shirt.

Jungkook takes a hold of Taehyung's hand, trying to free himself. Taehyung's grip tighten, the shirt crinkling between his fingers. “I am not running away,” Jungkook murmurs, “I am not.” Taehyung doesn't let go, “okay,” he still holds on just that desperately, “okay.”

Jungkook tiptoes inside behind Taehyung. Taehyung slowly guides them up the stairs to his room. “Eomma's room is downstairs,” Taehyung whispers, “my brother and I have rooms upstairs.” “Which one is yours?” Jungkook looks at the small corridor. Taehyung points, “first one.”

As soon as the door closes, Jungkook has a handful of Taehyung. Taehyung buries himself against Jungkook, face hidden in the crook of Jungkook's neck. The blanket falls on the ground in a whisper. Leaves Taehyung in his tattered T-shirt and pajama. Jungkook chokes on a breath.

Taehyung's breathing his ragged, he clings onto Jungkook like his life depends on it. There is something heartbreaking in the way he chants his apologies and begs for Jungkook to stay. Jungkook slowly wraps his arms around the man, “Shush,” he sighs, “I am not going anywhere.”

“I am sorry,” Taehyung sniffles, arms tightening around Jungkook's waist, “for thinking I can live my entire life without seeing you ever again. I was so stupid to think I will go away and it will be fine,” he looks at the man, “you have no ide-” his voice cracks, “you have no…”

“You have no idea how every waking hour, the only thing I thought about is,” Taehyung looks at Jungkook with tearful eyes, “how aimless my life is going to be. I can't,” he shakes his head, face contorting, “I spent years chasing you,” Taehyung shudders, “loving you.”

There is something twisting in Jungkook. Jungkook leads Taehyung to the bed. He sits down and pulls Taehyung on his lap. Taehyung sits sideways, face hidden against Jungkook's neck. “Don't push me away,” Taehyung mewls, “I can't do this. I can't live like this forever.”

Jungkook's hands rub Taehyung's back, “there was doubt in me if I can trust you anymore. If,” he frowns, thinking back, “I will be able to move past whatever happened between us and what you are. I was doubtful that there will always be a part of me that will not be sure of you.”

Taehyung doesn't utter a word. He stays where he is, tucked in Jungkook's arms. Jungkook looks down at the man buried against him, “I will have to move past that fear, no?” he gives Taehyung a faint smile when those large eyes look up at him, “yeah. I think I have to.”

“Because, I am tired of missing you,” Jungkook leans in to press their foreheads together, “tired of thinking what you are doing. Who you are with. If you miss me as much as I miss you, all those nonsense,” he waves his hand, “I can't go on like this.”

“I mean, my men are already done with me moping around,” Jungkook chuckles, “Namjoon has an empty room now because he fears I will actually shove his bonsais down his throat. Jin doesn't talk my ears off, I can't believe I miss that. Hoseok is all jumpy and it's irksome.”

“The only person unchanged is Yoongi,” Jungkook's lips twitch, “I wish he would fear me some day though. But, he won't, so,” he nods. “Yoongi hyung is cool that way,” Taehyung whispers. Jungkook arches a brow, “is he now?” Taehyung's face heats up, “in general. Not that way!”

Jungkook takes a hold of Taehyung's jaw, “good. Let's not tempt me to put a bullet through his skull.” Taehyung shudders, “nothing should tempt you to put a bullet through anyone's skull!” Jungkook's eyes are sharp, lips twitching, “it does. Whenever someone touches you.”

Taehyung's hand grips Jungkook's lapel, clinging onto him, “are you staying?” Jungkook hums, “here?” he shakes his head, “no, the house is too small for me,” his eyes flicker down to Taehyung's lips, “with you? Yes.” Taehyung rolls his eyes, “don't insult my house!”

Jungkook shrugs, “I wouldn't dare,” he breathes out a smile, “but, I would much rather be in a house where I can smoke in peace without the image of an angry lady with a cane in her hand pops in my mind.” Taehyung swats him on the back, “that's my eomma! Show some respect!”

Their smiles dim. Taehyung leans his head on Jungkook's shoulder again. “Are we good?” Jungkook hums, “the question still stands,” he looks at the man in his arms, “would you come to live with me? What would you tell your family? It's all on you.” Taehyung watches him.

“If I tell her who you are, she will die,” Taehyung states, “like, literally drop-dead.” Jungkook snorts, “would be fun to watch-” he stops when Taehyung swats him again, “okay, okay. How about you don't tell her? Just tell her you got a job in the city.” Taehyung thinks.

“I don't want to lie anymore,” Taehyung murmurs, “I am tired of that.” Jungkook watches him, “what... are you planning on telling her what I am and coming out at the same time?” “She knows I am gay,” Taehyung rolls his eyes, “just... yeah, I will tell her about you.”

Jungkook watches the man, “and, you want me to be present when you dump this all on her?” Taehyung nods, arches a brow, “why? Big shot mob boss is scared of my mother?” Jungkook rolls his eyes, “I just like to avoid unnecessary chaos. You can easily not tell her at all.”

Taehyung shakes his head, “this time I am doing it all right. Also, I think you just like that she loves you as the commissioner.” Jungkook laughs, “well, she was very respectful and starry eyed. I like that look on people.” Taehyung hums, “well, I am about to ruin that.”

Jungkook hums, pulling Taehyung's chin up, “then, let me take my fees then.” Taehyung smiles, tears clinging onto his lashes when he closes his eyes as soon as their lips touch. The kiss is soft, hesitant at first. Then Jungkook deepens in, pulling Taehyung closer.

Taehyung grasps onto Jungkook, moving to straddle him while they continue kissing. A soft sound escapes his lips when Jungkook takes a hold of his ass. Squeezing him there. “Her room is right under mine,” Taehyung murmurs, “she might hear us. Keep your hands above my waist!”

Jungkook curses, “I had the image of you naked, on your hands and knees, and now it's your mum with that damn cane in her hand. You really need to choose the moment when you talk about her, and it's not when you are grinding on my cock!” Taehyung snorts, “I am not grinding!”

Jungkook turns, easily dropping Taehyung on the bed and climbing on top of him. They kiss, while Jungkook unbuttons Taehyung's shirt. Taehyung tears his lips away from those insistent ones, “I'm not kidding. She can hear us. We can't.” Jungkook groans, “stop talking about her!”

Taehyung breathes out a soft giggle, “but, I am speaking the truth.” Jungkook flops down beside him, pulling Taehyung in his arms, “fine. We can just cuddle to sleep.” Taehyung looks at him, “why is that mocking tone?” Jungkook gives him a look, “because I wanted to fuck you.”

Jungkook's phone rings, and he pulls out to see Yoongi calling. “What?” “Send me some money,” Yoongi's voice is clear in the quiet room, “the repairing will take some. I called for it.” Jungkook blinks, “you… can't pay for two tire replacements? Are you serious right now?”

Yoongi snorts, “bitch, I am not paying for your tantrums. You flat a tire, you pay for it. Otherwise, I will call a cab, go home. Now, send the money or I ditch the car.” Taehyung burst out laughing when Jungkook just stares at the ceiling. Jungkook cuts the call, “I hate him!”

Taehyung snuggles closer to Jungkook while Jungkook sends Yoongi some money. 'Now enjoy the talk/fuck, whichever you are doing,' Yoongi sends back. Taehyung buries his face in Jungkook's neck, smile wide on his lips, “you all are a bunch of idiots.” Jungkook hums, “seems so.”

Jungkook turns to pull Taehyung to himself. They kiss in silence, smile soft against each other's lips. Taehyung closes his eyes, finally feeling at ease. He buries his face against Jungkook's neck, leg thrown over Jungkook's waist, as he falls asleep. He is happy now.

Taehyung watches the man swim. His eyes follow the snake tattooed on Jungkook's back. The soft glow of the setting sun gleaming on Jungkook's skin. Taehyung sips the mocktail, smiles when those eyes find him. Jungkook swims up to him, taking a hold of Taehyung's ankle.

“Swim with me?” Jungkook's voice is soft, smile softer. Taehyung cups Jungkook's face, combs those wet locks of hair back to pull the man in for a kiss. Jungkook hums when he tastes the fruity flavour in Taehyung's mouth. “I am tired,” Taehyung murmurs against his lips.

“I have tired you out already?” Jungkook arches a suggestive brow, “come on. It's just the second day of our honeymoon.” Taehyung smiles, “get out and get dressed, sir. We need to have some dinner. You planned, remember?” Jungkook sighs, kissing Taehyung's knee, “right.”

Taehyung presses the pad of his foot on Jungkook's chest, pushing him away when Jungkook starts to kiss up to his inner thighs. “We are not doing this again!” Taehyung giggles, getting away from the edge of the swimming pool, “no, enough of sex! Get out. I am hungry!”

Taehyung wraps the silk robe tightly around himself, giggling when Jungkook gets out of the pool and follows him. He throws open the bedroom door, right beside the private pool, and gets to the closet. Jungkook gives a soft laugh, “are you sure we need to go out?”

Taehyung hums, tilts his head sideways when the man comes to stand behind him. Jungkook's lips leaving pecks down his neck. “Yes,” Taehyung breathes out, letting Jungkook slip the robe off of him, “I am hungry.” Jungkook squeezes his hips, “me too.” Taehyung elbows him.

“No stupid suggestions,” Taehyung moans when Jungkook sucks a hickey on his shoulder, “get dressed.” Jungkook follows, wears jeans and a shirt. He looks at Taehyung and arches a brow when he catches Taehyung staring at him. Taehyung blushes, “you look good in casuals.”

Jungkook has a playful smirk on his lips, he looks Taehyung up and down with a nod. “I prefer you naked, though.” Taehyung rolls his eyes, cheeks tinted red, “yeah, yeah. We both know that. Now, come on.” Jungkook takes Taehyung's hand in his, “looking beautiful, baby doll.”

Taehyung links their arms together, both of them walking down the streets of Santorini side by side. Taehyung ignores the guards. They are there, wearing civil clothes. Easier for him to ignore. Jungkook clicks his pictures, they take selfies as they go. Laughing at the photos.

“Where are we going?” Taehyung wonders, looking at the sea, “where did you reserve us?” Jungkook points, “the sea.” Taehyung finds the answer when they stop in front of a cruise. Taehyung stares at it and back at Jungkook. Jungkook smiles, pulling him up the stairs.

“Come here,” Taehyung tugs Jungkook towards the front, “ask your guards to take a photo. Titanic style!” Jungkook has an amused smile on his lips, “you want us to sink or something?” Taehyung rolls his eyes, “no need to be so negative, come on!” Jungkook follows him.

After dinner, Jungkook takes him to the top deck. They sit on the couch, eyes on the dark sky. Stars litter the sky like diamonds scattered on a velvety shawl. Taehyung curls closer to Jungkook, head resting on Jungkook's shoulder. “Can't we live here forever?” He wonders.

Jungkook's eyes are on him. His hand holds Taehyung's. The kingpin smiles, gives a small nod. “Would you like it here?” Taehyung nods, “I think so.” Jungkook lies back on the couch, pulling Taehyung with him. “We will come back,” Jungkook murmurs, “every year.”

Taehyung likes the ring of it, “I would like that.” Jungkook smiles, kissing Taehyung on his forehead, “there is, probably, another universe where you and me live here forever. We are locals. Santorini won't be so special then. Just our home. Just another place. No?”

“Some things are special because you don't get to have it forever, for the rest of your life,” Jungkook looks at Taehyung, “but,” he wraps his arms tightly around Taehyung, “there are a few people who are constant and just as special every day. You are that person to me.”

Taehyung's eyes glisten, his throat tightening, “I am?” Jungkook nods, earnest, “although you make me a coward. I used to be fearless, you know? Dive head first into everything. Now, I think. Now I take precaution because…” he sighs, “I don't want to leave you. Ever.”

Jungkook chuckles, “you make my life worth living. You make it special. Do I make sense?” Taehyung nods, gives the man a soft smile, “you do. I like that you are careful now. Take extra precaution.” Jungkook shrugs, “now, I have a person to come home to. It makes sense.”

Jungkook watches a star shooting across the sky. He looks at Taehyung. “Turns out, the web was always yours. I am just caught in it. In your spell. And, if you let me, I would like to stay forever.” Taehyung smiles, “it's ours,” he lies down on Jungkook's chest, “our gossamer.”

— That's all — See you in another story, in another Aamyungverse — ko-fi.com/aamyungv

The Yoonmin arc, linking it here : twitter.com/Aamyungv/statu…