Chapter Text
XS Ent is abuzz with preparations for Jeongguk’s fan meet. The lobby is full of staff hustling back and forth with different pieces of clothing and props, and yelling can be heard down the halls. It’s chaos and at the center of it is Jeongguk. Eunwoo has a strong grip on his arm, maneuvering him through the crowd and to the elevator.
“It’s not even D-day and things are crazy.” Eunwoo grumbles as they stumble into the elevator. He’s quick to press the button for the 5th floor and relaxes the moment the doors close.
“Uhm, can you let go of my arm?” Jeongguk asks.
“Oh,” Eunwoo drops his arm. “sorry.”
“It’s cool.” Jeongguk stares ahead, slightly dazed as he thinks back to yesterday. He can’t get Jimin’s expression out of his mind; the look of rage and bitterness that twisted his usually calm features. Jeongguk hasn’t heard from him since last night. He sent a single text asking about how it went.
Maybe he needs space? Perhaps things went well? Maybe not…
The elevator dings and Eunwoo steps out, looking curiously to Jeongguk who stays inside. With a sigh, he grabs Jeongguk’s arm and yanks him out into the hall.
“You okay?” Eunwoo asks, eyes flicking across Jeongguk’s blank expression.
“Huh? Oh, yeah…” Jeongguk brushes out of his hold, walking towards the meeting room.
He’ll most likely see Jimin today, but he’s contemplating what he should say once he shows up. Should he say anything? Is it his place to say anything? Numerous questions fly through his mind as he tugs open the meeting room door. Dahye, Lia and a few others are seated around a table and Jeongguk greets them with a slight bow.
“We thought you’d never show up!” Dahye exclaims.
Jeongguk flashes a small smile as he settles beside her.
She’s quick to pick up on his dismal demeanor and asks in a whisper, “What’s wrong?”
“I’ll tell you later.”
She squints at him skeptically before slowly leaning back and deciding to drop it for now. Jeongguk crosses his arms against his chest and his head jerks up each time the door opens, hoping for it to be Jimin. However, a new staff member appears and Jeongguk internally groans. The meeting is scheduled to start in ten minutes, so he should be here any moment now. Jeongguk slips out his phone to see if just maybe Jimin sent him a text message, but to no surprise, there isn’t one.
When the office door opens for what feels like the hundredth time, Jeongguk looks up and his heart gives a jump upon seeing Jimin’s face. His silver locks are swept to one side and he’s casually dressed in black ripped jeans and a yellow sweater. He looks amazing, he always looks amazing. Their eyes meet and Jimin flashes Jeongguk a brief smile before turning to greet everyone else in the room.
Jeongguk watches him as he drifts about the room—can’t look away—wonders if he slept well last night. If he was able to get everything off his chest. Once Jimin’s finished making his rounds, he settles beside Jeongguk and reaches beneath the table to squeeze his thigh.
“You’re an open book.” he whispers without looking Jeongguk in the eye.
“I shouldn’t be?”
Jimin gives his thigh another hard squeeze, hissing. “At least not here.”
“I was worried.” Jeongguk replies, slipping his hand beneath the table to caress Jimin’s. “You never replied.”
Jimin finally snaps around to stare at him, eyebrows drawing together as he thinks back to last night. “Shit, you’re right.”
“Jimin, your phone.” Hoseok grumbles, eyelids heavy with sleep.
Jimin groans, “I’ll check it in a moment.” But as the show drags on and the alcohol kicks in, Jimin never checks his phone.
“I thought something happened.” Jeongguk murmurs as his doe eyes grow even bigger.
Jimin’s heart flutters and he sucks on his bottom lip before answering. “I drank a lot with Hoseok,” he gives Jeongguk’s thigh another squeeze, but this time it’s more reassuring than threatening. “I’m sorry for not responding.”
Jeongguk opens his mouth to say that Jimin doesn’t need to apologize but is cut off by someone clapping to start the meeting. Jimin gives Jeongguk an apologetic look before turning away.
The meeting kicks off with the conversation centered around Jeongguk’s personal VCR. He’ll perform several songs, play a few games with the fans before opening to a Q&A section. At some point the meeting turns to the discussion of Jeongguk’s wardrobe and rehearsal dates, but Jeongguk’s tuned out by now because he’s gone over this already.
He focuses his attention on Jimin and rests his chin in the palm of his hand, gazing at the back of Jimin’s head. Everything about Jimin seems so precious and beautiful. Jimin is precious and it’s during random moments like these that Jeongguk realizes just how in love he is with Jimin. Even the back of his head looks like a work of art.
As if sensing Jeongguk’s eyes on him, Jimin glances over his shoulder. He raises his eyebrows, silently asking, “What?”
Jeongguk’s response is a wink and Jimin’s jaw drops, but he’s quick to snap it back in place to avoid drawing any unnecessary attention. However, Dahye looks knowingly between the two of them, but she only grins to herself. Once the meeting ends and everyone’s exited the room, Dahye turns to them.
“You two are so obvious.”
“Shame.” Jeongguk replies sarcastically. “I’d hate for everyone to know that I’m hitting on my publicist.”
Jimin kicks Jeongguk’s shin beneath the table and smiles at Dahye while asking, “Obvious? How so?”
“You’ve got couple energy floating all around you,” she explains. “there’s so much shalala and flowers in the air.”
Jeongguk, who’s nursing his probably bruised shin, replies, “So what if they know?” and the second the question leaves his mouth, he realizes how stupid it sounds.
“You’re not exactly…out.” Jimin deadpans. “And we’re not exactly…dating.”
“Yet…” Jeongguk says under his breath.
“Not to mention Jimin’s job could be on the line.” Dahye informs.
This seems to pique Jeongguk’s interest because he turns to face Dahye, eyes wide with curiosity. “How?”
She shrugs, “I just assumed dating your client was a no-no.”
“You’re not exactly wrong,” Jimin sighs. “It happens a lot though, but those relationships are often kept hush-hush.”
Jimin’s often been the one to keep such relationships from the prying hands of the media. Sometimes he had clients who were often in sexual relationships with their publicists. As someone who’s gone through such before, he has no plans of going through it again. At least not publicly.
“We deal with a lot of shit.” Jimin finalizes as he heads for the door.
Jeongguk is quick to jump to his feet, gesturing to Dahye that he’ll call her later. She shoos him off with a knowing smile. Jeongguk trails closely behind Jimin, his hand lingering against Jimin’s backside, wanting to pull him close.
“Want to get coffee?” Jeongguk suggests with a bright smile.
Jimin glances his way, “Can’t. You do realize we probably won’t be seeing each other outside of work because of your fan meet?”
“Which is why I’m asking you out for coffee.” Jeongguk replies, following Jimin to the elevator.
“I’ll have to decline.” Jimin states, pressing the elevator button. When the doors open with a ding, he steps inside and presses for the first floor, but Jeongguk is quick to press several other buttons and the one to close the doors.
Jimin stares at him in awe, eyes wide as Jeongguk backs him up against the wall. He places his hands on each side of Jimin’s head, caging him between his arms. The doors shut and Jimin’s left alone with an apparently needy Jeongguk.
“Gguk,” Jimin says in a warning tone.
Jeongguk tilts his head, “Yes, baby?”
The pet name throws Jimin off, causes his cheeks to flush, heart to clench and his breathing to stutter. It’s been so long since anyone has dressed him with any form of endearment. Baby sounds so nice rolling off Jeongguk’s tongue.
“Or should I stick with calling you gorgeous?” Jeongguk asks as he leans in, eyes focused on Jimin’s lips. “Hm?”
Jeongguk adores Jimin’s confidence and somewhat intimidating nature, but occasionally making him flustered like this is one of Jeongguk’s guilty pleasures. He’s adorable when he’s caught off guard.
“Maybe…my gorgeous baby?” Jeongguk taunts.
Jimin bites his bottom lip, aware of the elevator dinging as it goes from floor to floor. “We could get caught.”
“I’ll just say you had something in your hair and I…” he slowly kisses Jimin before pulling back to murmur. “Was simply helping you out.”
“You’ve got it all figured out, don’t you?” Jimin’s voice has dropped to match Jeongguk’s flirtatious tone.
“‘Course.” Jeongguk smiles before leaning in to kiss Jimin again. He slides a hand around Jimin’s waist, pushing him flush against his body. Jeongguk kisses him until the doors ding open and he groans in frustration. “Damn it.” He lingers for a moment, gaze hooded and breathing softly against Jimin’s lips.
“Move,” Jimin says with his cheeks adorably flushed.
Jeongguk wants to kiss him again, but steps aside and out of the elevator.
Jimin walks briskly past him, calling over his shoulder, “You’ve got an hour.”
Jeongguk’s eyes light up and he immediately fishes around in his jean pockets for his keys before chasing after Jimin. He falls into step beside him and they walk out of the front doors and into the beaming sun. Jeongguk is quick to unlock his car and hold the door open for an amused Jimin.
“Charming.” Jimin deadpans.
“Not to anyone,” Jeongguk hums. “just you, gorgeous.”
Jimin ducks into the Mercedes, heart racing and cheeks straining with a smile. Jimin could get used to this and a part of him already has. Somedays he’ll wait for Jeongguk to text him random photos or messages. Other days, he’ll imagine what it’ll be like to be held by Jeongguk. To be in a position where he’s no longer in control, where he allows his partner to take care of him.
Jimin wants that.
He gazes at Jeongguk as he starts the engine, eyes trailing down Jeongguk’s side profile and zeroing in on his hand on the steering wheel.
He really wants that.
Jeongguk suddenly turns to him, smiling bright enough to compete with the sun. “Where to?”
“Anywhere as long as it’s near here.”
Jeongguk salutes before backing out of the parking lot. He’ll probably get a message from Eunwoo asking about his whereabouts, but Jeongguk won’t worry about that right now. He just wants to enjoy this moment with Jimin—ask about last night, make him laugh—the things you do when you’re in love with someone.
Jeongguk decides to take Jimin to a café nearby that allows him some secrecy despite his celebrity status. It’s a ten-minute drive from the company building and they spend most of the drive in a comfortable silence. When Jeongguk makes a left turn, he places a hand to Jimin’s thigh and rests it there. Jimin turns from the window to glance at Jeongguk.
Without turning, Jeongguk mutters, “I uhm…I’m not really good at the whole asking about your ex thing.”
Jimin grins, “You did pretty well the night we had sex.”
Jeongguk’s cheeks flush.
“What is it you want to ask?” Jimin keeps his eyes on Jeongguk, studying the slight hesitance on Jeongguk’s face.
“Is…are you okay now?” Jeongguk questions and he’s finally able to look at Jimin when he rolls to a stop at a stoplight. When their eyes meet, Jeongguk’s heart skips and he confesses in a soft tone. “I always want to kiss you when I look at you.”
Jimin stares back at him and abruptly leans over to peck Jeongguk on the lips. Jimin pulls back slowly and smiles, “I’m okay now.”
Stunned, Jeongguk dazedly gapes at Jimin.
“Light’s green.” Jimin hums.
“R-right,” Jeongguk’s grip tightens on the steering wheel and he swallows thickly.
Jimin continues to say, “I felt a bit uneasy seeing him after all that time, but I had to do it.”
Jeongguk understands without Jimin needing to elaborate. He gets it.
“I hope you can do the same one day.” Jimin murmurs, placing his hand over Jeongguk’s.
When they arrive at the café, Jimin decides to make it a car-date, explaining that he likes sitting in intimate settings with Jeongguk. Jeongguk tries not to let the comment get to his head or his heart, but it proves rather difficult because he’s already fallen hard for Jimin.
Their car-date ends up being intimate—lots of thigh touching, lingering stares and abrupt kisses—Jeongguk really likes this. They talk about meaningless things and Jeongguk discovers that Jimin has an adorable habit of falling over when he laughs. This is when Jeongguk develops a habit of kissing Jimin while he’s laughing.
“What was that for?” Jimin asks, lips slightly parted as he gawks at Jeongguk.
“You’re really beautiful when you laugh.” Jeongguk blurts. “I mean you’re always beautiful, it’s just when you laugh it’s like your beauty just bursts out or something.”
Jimin snorts, covering his mouth with a hand.
“Don’t laugh.” Jeongguk warns. “That’s just how you make me feel.”
Jimin immediately stops laughing and pins Jeongguk with his best “I’m taking you seriously” expression, but Jeongguk doesn’t buy it. So, he reaches over and places a finger to Jimin’s lips, the sudden action causes the atmosphere to shift. Jimin reacts daringly by keeping his eyes on Jeongguk and slowly opening his mouth, so that Jeongguk’s finger falls against his tongue. Jeongguk releases the slightest breath as his eyes fixate on Jimin’s plush lips. His heart feels like it’s being twisted and wrung to dry. He can’t breathe—can’t process what the hell is going on.
Ever so slowly, Jimin closes his mouth around Jeongguk’s finger and moans purposefully. Jeongguk’s eyes flutter and he sits completely still in his seat, unsure of what to do and somewhat afraid of what he’ll do if things continue this way. Thankfully, Jeongguk’s phone goes off and he pulls his finger back to answer it.
Jimin flips his hair with a smirk. Jeongguk wants to say something but decides not to and answers his phone.
“H-hello?”
Jimin snickers at Jeongguk’s trembling voice.
“You sound winded, you okay?” Eunwoo answers.
Jeongguk clears his throat, “Yeah, uhm, what’s up?”
“You kinda, sorta disappeared on me.” Eunwoo replies.
Jeongguk goes on to explain that he and Jimin left for a private meeting, not lying but not disclosing the entire truth. Eunwoo decides not to question it further and asks for Jeongguk to “hurry his ass on back.” With a laugh, Jeongguk pulls out of the café parking lot and returns to the company building. He hates to part ways with Jimin because he knows he won’t have a chance to see him tomorrow. Between photoshoots and late-night dance practices, Jeongguk’s booked for the rest of the week.
Today he stands on the arena stage where he’ll be performing. He watches as staff and arena crew walk about and an excited thrum builds in his chest. Soon he’ll be performing. Soon he’ll be proclaiming his identity to thousands of his fans. It’s exciting yet nerve-wracking as he thinks about how he’ll be viewed once it’s done.
Jeongguk’s had several conversations after yesterday’s meeting regarding his VCR and the speech he’ll make soon after it plays. His company has been rather encouraging towards his decision, although they don’t know the full details of the “confession” he’ll be making to his fans. It’ll come as a shock to many.
“This is fucking amazing!”
Jeongguk spins around upon hearing the familiar voice and his gaze falls on a beaming Namjoon. He’s wearing a baseball cap, green t-shirt and loose-fitting khakis which means today is one of his off days.
“Hyung,” they greet each other with a hug and sure enough, Namjoon smells like fresh flowers. “guess you’re off?”
“You guessed right!” Namjoon singsongs.
“Why’re you here then?” Jeongguk asks, sliding an arm around Namjoon’s waist and walking with him to exit the stage.
“I hadn’t seen you in a while and I missed you.”
Jeongguk’s nose scrunches, “Missed me? I know that’s a lie.”
“Not entirely a lie, but not the whole truth.” Namjoon replies with a smile.
They slip off stage and head to Jeongguk’s dressing room down the hall. Jeongguk closes the door behind them before collapsing in one of the leather seats. Namjoon plops in the one across from him and waits a moment for Jeongguk to get settled before asking, “So this is it, huh?”
Jeongguk blinks.
“Your VCR.”
“Ah,” his head falls back against the seat and he stares up at the ceiling. “Yep,”
“I’m nervous for you, so I can only imagine how you feel.”
Even though Namjoon’s been busy with his own life, he’s managed to stay up to date with Jeongguk’s fan meet and the talked about VCR that will play.
“Honestly…I don’t know how I feel right now,” Jeongguk answers. “Part of me is ready to get it over with and there’s the other part that wants to toss it aside and completely hide.”
“It’s okay to feel like that—it’s okay to change your mind, but I know you.” Namjoon recalls ‘baby-Jeongguk’ and the determination in his eyes. “Once you set out to do something, you do it, no matter the outcome.”
Jeongguk drops his head and his heart warms over upon seeing the tender expression on Namjoon’s face. Namjoon always has a way of making him feel better about himself and his decisions. “Will you be there? On the first day?”
“Of course!” Namjoon claps a hand to his thigh. “Wouldn’t miss it.”
The conversation steers to Namjoon’s progress with Seokjin because Jeongguk hasn’t had a chance to ask about such. Namjoon fills him in that they’re “progressing slowly” because Seokjin’s very careful about relationships.
“I’m a patient man.” Namjoon proclaims. “I could wait a century for someone like Seokjin-hyung.”
Jeongguk snorts, but he agrees with Namjoon’s proclamation because he’s also found someone worth waiting for. Someone who’s also willing to wait. Jeongguk’s heart skips at the mere thought of Jimin and his leg bounces, not with anxiety, but giddiness.
“Sounds like love.” Jeongguk replies.
“Does it? Then that’s probably, most likely what it is.” Namjoon hums, breaking into a dimpled smile.
*
Jimin stands in his office with the latest edition of Forbes magazine in his hands. With a proud sigh, he raises the magazine in the air and beams because he’s on the front cover. He wore an all-white suit designed by Chanel and dyed his hair a brighter silver. He looked stunning and felt stunning as he stood in front of the flashing cameras.
“Ah, Park Jimin, you did it again.” He exclaims, walking up to his bookshelf and slipping the magazine into a newly bought frame. It fits perfectly inside and Jimin places the frame on the empty spot right beside his photo with Seokjin. He takes a step back to admire the framed magazine and hums, “You truly are the shit.”
After a few more moments of admiring his hard work, he slips out his phone to call his mom.
As always, she answers on the first ring. “Honey!”
Jimin’s immediately calmed upon hearing her voice, “Hey, mom.”
“How are you? Did you get the kimchi I packed?” she asks in the same bubbly rhythm she always uses when talking with Jimin.
“Yes, yes, I ate it with some pork cutlets.”
“Good, good. You know I worry about you.”
He laughs softly, “I know…I’m taking care of myself.”
His mother continues to talk about her life in Busan and how she’s getting along well with her neighbors. She also fills Jimin in on the latest neighborhood gossip and how everyone is jealous of her “amazing son.”
“I made lots of high-school friends after telling them my son works with the Jeon Jeongguk.”
Jimin blushes, wrapping an arm around himself. “Mom,”
“Those young girls always gave me a bit of a hassle, but now they come to the restaurant and order seconds.” She excitedly relays. “How is he anyways? Still giving you trouble?”
“No…we’re getting along well.”
Suddenly she drops her voice, “When you say ‘getting along’ do you mea—”
“Mom!” Jimin exclaims, ears catching fire at the thought of his mom even thinking about him and Jeongguk that way.
“What?” her tone rises, taking on an innocent hitch. “I know these things. I know you and I did a Naver search and waah! I thought, he’s definitely my son’s type.”
Jimin’s a flustered mess now as incoherent words come from his mouth.
“Well, thank you for checking in on your little, old mother.” She says, oblivious to Jimin's embarrassment.
He manages to recover, saying sweetly, “You know I’m always thinking about you.”
She sighs into the phone, “I know.”
“I plan on visiting soon.” Jimin adds.
“Oh! You should bring Jeongguk along.”
Jimin chokes on his spit, “M-mom, we’re not like that and I don’t think he’d want to come...”
“You never know.” She replies cheerily.
Jimin tries to argue against her, but she cuts him off, explaining that a group of customers just walked into the restaurant. Jimin knows her and knows that she’s lying but laughs it off because she’s always like this. So, he ends the call and decides to take a picture of his The ShitTM magazine cover (aka the Forbes issue) and sends it to Jeongguk. He gets an immediate response.
The Sweetheart
12:05pm
Ah, you look like an angel
The Sweetheart
12:05pm
Are you even real or are you just a figment of my imagination?
Jimin snorts, amused by Jeongguk’s shamelessness.
The Sweetheart
12:07pm
If you really are real, then you’ll send me a selfie
The Sweetheart
12:07pm
Right now : )
Jimin stares at his phone for a moment and decides to leave Jeongguk on read just to mess with him. He tucks his phone away and leaves his office to check in with Taehyung next door. He knocks once before opening the door and slipping inside. Taehyung’s seated on top of his desk and Jimin isn’t surprised by that, but by his apple hairstyle.
Taehyung looks up, bright-eyed and joyous. “Jimin!” he jumps off the desk and rushes up to Jimin with a portfolio in hand.
Jimin stumbles back with a surprised grin, “What? Must be something good, you look like you’re in the stars.”
“I got my first client!” Taehyung exclaims.
Jimin’s eyes widen and he pulls Taehyung into a hug. “Look at you!”
They jump around in each other’s arms for a moment before pulling back. Taehyung opens the portfolio and they look over it together.
Name: Park Seo-joon
Age: 31
Occupation: Actor & Model
Jimin whistles, “You’ve caught a big fish.”
“Big enough to become the shit like you?”
Jimin blinks rapidly, a thin smile stretching his lips as he reaches around to pat Taehyung on the butt. “Nice try, my baby, but you still have some growing to do.”
Taehyung chuckles and they continue talking about Taehyung’s new client before Jimin excuses himself to call up a few reporters about a few press releases he’s written regarding Jeongguk’s fan meet. He builds their interest with eye-catching headlines and pitches, and once he’s done with that, he moves on to write a bit more of his book.
He types away at his laptop for hours and pauses to stretch before continuing again. He leans back to read over the first few lines of his book and he’s quite content with what he has.
‘Park Jimin can be described in three words:
- He
- Did
- It
As a PR Specialist I’ve dealt with a lot of bullshit, but it’s shaped me into the person I am today. So, I don’t have any regrets. I just like to think that all the hurdles I’ve faced are steppingstones. Yeah, that’s exactly what they are.’
Jimin gives himself a pat on the back and yawns. He glances at the clock above his office door and gasps. It’s already six in the evening. He hurries to shut things down, slipping on his coat and shooting Jeongguk a quick text.
Jimin
7:15pm
Sorry, I was too busy being real, I forgot to respond
Jeongguk’s response comes as a phone call and he answers with a pout, “Not funny.”
Jimin laughs loudly, walking out of his office and locking the door. “I couldn’t resist the urge to tease you.”
“I spent the entire rehearsal wondering if you were sent back to heaven.”
Jimin tries to press his lips together to keep from laughing but fails and ends up releasing a choked gasp.
Jeongguk smiles softly as he pictures Jimin laughing, “Are you headed home?”
“Yeah,” Jimin walks down the hall, bowing to a few employees who are also on their way out. “are you still rehearsing?”
“Nah, we wrapped up early.”
“Mm,”
Jeongguk unlocks his car and ducks inside and hypes himself up before asking, “Which is why I called to see if you wanted to come over.”
Jimin’s eyebrows raise, “Is the Jeon Jeongguk inviting me over to his place?”
“Yes, he is.”
“Aren’t you tired?”
“A bit, but I’m sure I’ll feel better once I see you.” He answers smoothly.
Jimin releases an airy laugh. “How about tomorrow evening?”
“I can do that.”
“Great,”
Jimin tries not to get the butterflies as he realizes he’s never been to Jeongguk’s place. Tries not to think about why Jeongguk’s suddenly decided to invite him over but fails. “Why? So suddenly…” he hesitantly asks.
“I mean…I’ve always wanted to invite you over, but because our schedules have been crazy, the chance got away from me.” Jeongguk explains. “Also, since you know me best—”
“I don’t know you best.” Jimin interjects, blushing a bit.
“—since you know me the best,” Jeongguk repeats. “I want you to help me choose from some old photos, so I can post them to my Twitter.”
“Huh? Why not just send me scanned copies in an email…?”
“It’s not the same.”
Jimin lowers his voice questioningly, “Why does it feel like I’m walking into a trap?”
Jeongguk laughs, “Perhaps you are, but it’s not a trap if you’re aware of my intentions.”
“Sneaky.” Jimin replies and he tries to calm the racing of his heart as he picks up on the suggestiveness in Jeongguk’s tone. It’s not like Jimin hasn’t thought about having sex with Jeongguk again. Frankly, he’s thought about it way too much. Some nights he’d touch himself and moan into his pillows.
“Anyways, I’ll let you go. Get home safe.” Jeongguk says softly.
“You too.” Jimin ends the call and manages to drive home despite how weak in the knees Jeongguk has him feeling.
A shared call isn’t the only thing they share tonight. Once they make it home, the palpable tension between them spills out as Jimin pushes his fingers into himself and Jeongguk moans Jimin’s name beneath the spray of his shower.
The next morning Jeongguk feels somewhat groggy since his night was spent fulfilling his desires and he reached several orgasms that just weren’t it. When Eunwoo calls to see if he’s headed to the company, Jeongguk answers a bit snappily.
“Woah, I’m just doing my job, no need to bite.”
Jeongguk slips into his car with a heavy sigh, “I’m sorry, I just—sorry.”
“You good?”
“Yeah, just,” Jeongguk swallows. “I’m fine.” He spares Eunwoo the gritty details of his night and skips right to his schedule. He has a meeting this morning and a live scheduled for the afternoon, and after that, he’s free to enjoy the rest of his day. That statement makes him extremely elated because he plans on spending the remainder of his day with Jimin.
Eunwoo shares that Jeongguk’s fans have trended several hashtags on Twitter, counting down to the fan meet next week.
“This is going to be amazing.” Eunwoo assures.
Jeongguk hopes so.
After jerking himself off till he was certain his dick was going to go numb, he spent some time in front of the mirror, rehearsing two words: “I’m gay.” Looking at himself while saying those words were difficult. He could see the years of pain in his eyes, the heartache and the hiding, it was terrifying. Maybe he should tell Eunwoo now instead of shocking him on D-day, but the thought of it causes his throat to close.
“You there?” Eunwoo asks.
“Y-yeah,” he clears his throat. “I’ll be at the XS in fifteen minutes.”
“Alright, see you soon.”
Jeongguk ends the call and grips the steering wheel to calm his heart. He reminds himself that he can do this and that this is his chance to finally be himself. Completely. Once he makes it to the company, he walks through the doors with a bright smile and briefly ponders how his friends and associates will react once he’s out. He sits through the meeting, listening intently to the organizers and then he moves to another room to start his live. He spends about an hour chatting with fans on V-live and dropping little spoilers about the fan meet. Things go by quickly and before he even realizes it, his day is over. Once he’s in his car, he immediately calls Jimin.
The line rings and then there’s a click, “Yes, sweetheart?” Jimin answers.
Jeongguk heart gives a kick. “I love it when you call me that.” He confesses.
Jimin chuckles, “Good to know.”
“Are you at the office?” Jeongguk asks.
“No, I just got home.”
“I’ll come pick you up.” Jeongguk replies, starting his car and buckling himself up.
“Let me wash up first.”
Jeongguk momentarily loses his train of thought as he thinks about Jimin in the shower. Skin glistening and wet with droplets of water running down his plump ass and thick thig—Fuck. Focus, Jeongguk.
“Did I lose you?” Jimin teases.
Jeongguk doesn’t hesitate to answer, “Yes, you did.”
Jimin’s response comes as a tinkering laugh, “Give me thirty minutes.”
“Alright, I’ll pick-up dinner before heading over.”
“God, you’re fucking perfect.” Jimin swoons.
“What’re you in the mood for?” Jeongguk begins to list off several restaurants that are on the way to Jimin’s house.
“Mm,” Jimin decides to just go for it because when is such a good opportunity going to present itself again? “You?”
“Really? You really went there?” Jeongguk asks. “I kind of expected it, but not really, you know?”
Jimin smiles, holding his phone tightly as he listens to the surprised lilt of Jeongguk’s voice.
“Well, in that case, how do you want me? Seasoned? A little bland? Hm?”
Jimin replies breezily, “Preferably inside me, but you can decide.”
Jeongguk chokes, hacking into the phone because he was not expecting that. “H-have you always been this way? I don’t…I don’t remember you being this way or maybe I missed it.”
“What?” Jimin asks innocently. “You don’t like it?”
“No, I love it actually, I just,” Jeongguk drags a hand down his face. “gonna need a minute to cool off.”
“It only gets worse from here.” Jimin responds.
“Don’t you mean better?”
After what feels like an hour of endless flirting and teasing, Jimin ends the call to shower and Jeongguk heads to Jimin’s favorite restaurant to pick up their dinner.
*
Jimin looks around star struck as he steps into Jeongguk’s apartment which just so happens to be part of Hannam the Hill. Jimin’s dreamed about moving into one of these and figures he’ll have a chance to do so in a few years. There’s touches of Jeongguk’s personality in the décor and even with the way everything’s so neatly organized.
“Baby, let me get your coat.” Jeongguk says, coming up behind Jimin. “I’ll hang it up for you.”
“Oh, okay, thanks.” Jimin holds his arms out to the side as Jeongguk gently slides Jimin’s coat off his shoulders.
Jimin’s a bit taken aback by the domesticity of Jeongguk’s actions and thinks about how Sungwoon never treated him like this. But it’s thoughts like these that give Jimin pause because he has yet to reach a place where he stops comparing his partners to Sungwoon. Especially, Jeongguk. Jeongguk doesn’t deserve to be constantly compared. Jimin’s let go, but there’s still old habits he needs to rid himself of for good before beginning a serious relationship.
“There.” Jeongguk gives Jimin’s shoulders a squeeze once the coat is off. “Make yourself comfortable while I go hang this up.”
“I’ll set the table then.”
They go their separate ways; Jimin heads to the kitchen and Jeongguk to the closet at the front door. Jimin makes quick work of the dining table, laying out their food and pouring two glasses of wine. He steps back to admire his work and Jeongguk hugs him from behind, resting his chin in the crook of Jimin’s neck.
“Looks good.” Jeongguk softly murmurs.
Jimin hums in response, struggling to ignore the press of Jeongguk’s body against his back. He’s so warm and sturdy, and Jimin melts each time they touch. He honestly thinks that if he were to ask Jeongguk to pin him to the kitchen counters, he probably would, but Jimin didn’t come here for that. Yet. So, he begrudgingly steps out of Jeongguk’s hold. “Let’s eat.”
“Mmkay,” Jeongguk straightens and walks around Jimin to sit at the table.
They sit and engage in light conversation, laughing and raising their glasses to toast Jimin’s successes and Jeongguk’s fan meet next week. Jeongguk takes this time to admire the little things about Jimin. The way he holds his glass to the way he hums a bit after eating something that tastes delicious. Jeongguk’s completely and utterly in love with him.
Once they’ve finished their meal, Jimin helps to clean the dishes. Jeongguk steps back with a smile to admire Jimin singing to himself as he cleans. Jimin sways his hips and without a second thought, Jeongguk walks up and places his hands to Jimin’s hips.
“Do you come here often?” Jeongguk jokes as he sways with Jimin.
“Mm, not really.”
“Shame.”
Jimin giggles, elbowing Jeongguk in the stomach. “Stop it and help me.”
“Alright, alright.”
After cleaning the dishes, they slip off to Jeongguk’s bedroom where he keeps the photo albums from his childhood. It’s the only thing he took from his parent’s place when he moved out years ago. There’s mainly photos from high school and a few from when he was in kindergarten.
“You can have a seat on the bed.” Jeongguk says as he walks to his closet to retrieve the photo album. He pushes aside his clothes until he finds the beige album. It’s a bit tattered around the edges and Jeongguk’s immediately hit with memories as he clutches it in his hands. He walks back to the bed and plops beside Jimin.
“So, what am I doing again?” Jimin asks.
“Helping me choose a couple photos to post.”
“Right because you couldn’t email them to me.”
Jeongguk snaps his fingers, “Exactly. I need you here.”
Jimin rolls his eyes with a smile and gestures for Jeongguk to open the album. The first page is full of “baby Jeongguk” with his chubby cheeks and doe eyes. They’re photos that cause Jimin’s heart to melt.
“Do you…have any favorite childhood memories?” Jimin asks.
Jeongguk continues thumbing through the pages. “Well, there was one time I fought with another kid in the neighborhood because he knocked my ice-cream out of my hand.”
Jimin snorts, “You fought?”
“Nah, more like stared him down until he ran off to his mom.”
Jimin laughs, picturing baby Jeongguk doing just that. “And that’s your favorite memory?”
“Yeah…because that little kid was my best friend…the one that ultimately shut me out.”
“Oh…”
“Yeah,” he stops flipping the pages and points to a photo of him wearing a high school uniform. “we had a lot of great memories together before things went to shit, but the shitty parts are also part of me.”
“I get that.” Jimin says softly.
Jeongguk looks into Jimin’s eyes and smiles. “What do you think of this one?” he watches as Jimin’s gaze drops to look at the photo in question.
Jimin’s expression lights up, “You were a cute kid.”
“I heard that a lot.”
“Bet you did.” Jimin murmurs, adding a moment later, “I like it.”
They continue flipping through the photos, reliving some of Jeongguk’s greatest moments from his youth. It’s when Jeongguk shares the details of his time spent with his childhood friend that Jimin realizes they should talk about them. What they are and what they hope to be.
Jimin reaches over, placing a hand atop the photo album to get Jeongguk’s attention. “I think we should…talk about us.” He begins hesitantly.
Momentarily confused, Jeongguk gazes at Jimin before placing the photo album aside to give Jimin his undivided attention.
“I don’t know when we’ll get a chance to talk like this again, so…”
Jeongguk rests a hand to Jimin’s thigh, “Let’s talk.”
Jimin doesn’t know where to begin, so he takes a moment to gather his thoughts before speaking. “I like you a lot. The mere mention of your name makes me stupid giddy.” He confesses, carefully choosing his words next words. “And I know you feel the same. I can feel it in your actions and the way you look at me and talk to me.”
That statement makes Jeongguk’s heart soar.
“But…I don’t think we should rush into this.” Jimin pauses, takes another deep breath, and continues. “I shouldn’t rush to call you my lover because there’s still somethings I need to take care of personally before starting a serious relationship.” He stares into Jeongguk’s eyes. “I’m serious about you, Jeongguk and I don’t want to hurt you. Ever.”
“I don’t want to hurt you either…” Jeongguk says in a small voice and suddenly he seems like the little boy in the photos they were looking at.
“We can take it slow.” Jimin murmurs. “That's what we deserve and no matter how slow we take it; I'll be here waiting."
Jeongguk knows Jimin is saying this with their best interests in mind. Jimin has his reasons for wanting to slow things down, so does Jeongguk. He’ll eventually be dealing with the reaction to his coming out and the conflicted feelings of being gay in a society that has yet to accept him. He doesn’t want to put Jimin—someone he hopes to call boyfriend someday—in the middle of the battleground with himself.
“Not to mention the contract,” Jimin continues. “I just…”
“You don’t need to explain yourself,” Jeongguk says tenderly. “I’ll wait for you too.” He looks at Jimin as though he’s recalling each moment they’ve spent together. Every second and minute, and hour he’s spent falling for Jimin. "You're the best thing that's ever happened to me." He cups Jimin’s face in his hands and leans in for a chaste kiss. When Jeongguk pulls back, Jimin chases his lips and pulls him in for another kiss. Jeongguk deepens the kiss, running a hand up the side of Jimin’s face to rest in his hair and opening his mouth so Jimin can slip his tongue inside.
It happens naturally, Jeongguk gently pushes Jimin against the bed and climbs atop him. He continues kissing Jimin; soft little nips and lingering swipes of his tongue. Jeongguk drops his hands from Jimin’s face and rests them beside Jimin’s head.
However, Jimin immediately stiffens when Jeongguk pins him to the bed. He can see the desire in Jeongguk’s eyes, but there’s a tinge of something softer—sweeter. It makes Jimin’s heart speed up and his stomach fill with butterflies. Jeongguk leans back to catch his breath before pressing his lips to Jimin’s again. With each brush of their lips, Jeongguk realizes how stiff Jimin is. His arms are placed flat to the bed and he’s staring up at the ceiling. Detached but wanting to be in the moment.
“Hyung,” Jeongguk says in a voice barely above a whisper—tender and intimate. “I won’t hurt you.”
Jimin blinks as Jeongguk shifts atop him and he cups Jimin’s face in his hands.
“I’ll never hurt you.” He emphasizes this by leaning in and kissing Jimin’s forehead and nose. When Jimin’s eyes flutter, Jeongguk gently presses his lips to Jimin’s closed lids. “We can stop.”
Jimin opens his eyes and gazes back at Jeongguk, he shakes his head. “I want this. I want to do this with you.” He places a hand to Jeongguk’s lower back. “It’s just…sometimes I see his face and his hands—I feel them, and I don’t want to feel him anymore.” he takes another deep breath. “I want to feel you.”
Jeongguk doesn’t know what to say or how he should express the immense love and admiration he has for Jimin, so he kisses him deeply, hoping his words can be conveyed in his actions. Jimin reciprocates the kiss, leaning into it and closing his eyes. They kiss for a while; tangled tongues and heavy breaths before Jeongguk pulls back to undress himself. Jimin watches him, eyes glazed and heart racing as Jeongguk flings his clothes aside until he sits atop Jimin in nothing but his skin.
Jimin’s gaze immediately drops to Jeongguk’s bare chest and he swallows. It doesn’t matter how many times he sees Jeongguk’s body, it’ll still leave him as breathless as the first time.
“Here,” Jeongguk says as he gently takes Jimin’s hand in his, bringing Jimin’s fingers to his abs. “feel me.”
Jimin swallows thickly as Jeongguk guides him.
“I’m all yours, hyung.” Jeongguk whispers, releasing Jimin’s hand.
Jimin’s fingers rest against Jeongguk’s stomach and for a moment, he isn’t sure what he should do, but when he looks into Jeongguk’s eyes, everything falls into place. Jimin traces the sharp outline of Jeongguk’s abs and lower to the jut of his V-line. His eyes glitter with lust when his gaze lands on Jeongguk’s fully erect cock. His fingers dance down, stopping just below Jeongguk’s navel. Jeongguk inhales sharply and Jimin can feel how his body trembles—how much his touch affects him.
“Jeongguk,” Jimin says softly as he looks into Jeongguk’s eyes.
“Yes?”
Jimin slides his hand up to rest against Jeongguk’s firm pectoral and a moan vibrates the back of his throat. He’s always had a thing for Jeongguk’s chest, how it fits perfectly in his hand. “Are you holding back?”
Jeongguk’s eyelids flutter as he slowly nods, “Yes,” his cock throbs and the veins in his arms are more pronounced as he clenches his fists. “of course, I am.”
“Don’t.” Jimin wraps his arms around Jeongguk’s shoulders and pulls him close. “You don’t need to anymore.”
Jeongguk’s eyes widen as he takes in Jimin’s tender expression. He swallows before asking, “Can you take it off?”
“What?”
“Everything,” Jeongguk’s gaze drops to Jimin’s shirt and jeans. “I want to see everything, Jimin.”
Jimin smiles, whispering, “Then take it off for me. Take it all off.”
Jeongguk does so, undressing Jimin from head to toe and once he’s done, he leans back to admire the view. Jimin lies beneath him, sprawled out and so beautiful. Jeongguk takes his time looking Jimin up and down, soaking in each curve, muscle, and hair.
Jimin breaks the silence by saying, “Condom and lube?”
Jeongguk snaps out of his daze, fumbling off the bed and to his closet. He hurriedly moves his clothes around until he discovers a plain bottle of lube and a loose condom. When he returns to the bed, Jimin’s lying with his knees up, legs spread and a hand over his buttocks.
“Fuck, you’re really gonna be the death of me.” Jeongguk mutters.
Jimin ushers him over with a grin, “Hand me the lube, sweetheart, I’ll prep myse—”
“I want to do it this time.” Jeongguk interrupts.
Something flickers in Jimin’s eyes as he processes Jeongguk’s words. It’s been so long since he’s allowed for anyone to prep him.
“I mean, if I can, if you’ll let me.” Jeongguk climbs back onto the bed, settling by Jimin’s feet. His leg begins to bounce as he studies Jimin’s mildly distraught expression. After a moment, he places a hand to his nape and mutters, “Never mind. Sorry for rushing.”
“No, no,” Jimin rushes to say. “You can.” Slowly, he removes his hand from his buttocks, revealing himself to Jeongguk. He sinks into the bed, spreading his legs some more and baring himself completely. He’s not used to this. Hasn’t been this open since forever ago.
Jeongguk’s eyes focus on Jimin’s ass and his cock swells even more upon seeing the taut ring of pink muscle.
“Just uhm…kiss me while you do it.” Jimin murmurs shyly.
Jeongguk licks his dry lips as his mind slowly begins to function again. He nods, opening the bottle of lube and slicking up two fingers. Once he’s done, he places the bottle aside and hovers over Jimin. He leans in close, kissing his nose and lips before slipping two fingers inside of him. Jimin responds with a whimper, lips trembling against Jeongguk’s. Jeongguk opens him up slowly, careful to not cause him any further pain.
His slender fingers push deeply into Jimin’s ass, “Does it hurt?”
It hurts like hell, but Jimin manages to breathe through it. “N-not that much, I uhm,” he releases a shuddering breath. “I did it a c-couple times w-while thinking of you.”
Jeongguk’s eyebrows knit as images of Jimin fingering himself up fly through his mind. How does Jimin expect him to react after hearing such? He fingered himself while thinking of me? How many times? Did he openly moan my name or did he hold back?
“Baby,” Jeongguk groans. “that’s unfair.”
Jimin’s back arches when Jeongguk begins to slip his fingers in and out, creating an electrifying sensation.
“Since when? Since that night?” Jeongguk asks, nipping Jimin’s bottom lip. “Hm?”
“For a while now,” he responds, grimacing a bit when Jeongguk’s fingers push too deep, too suddenly.
“For a while?” Jeongguk echoes in disbelief, curling his fingers and shuddering when Jimin moans unabashedly.
After a tormented moment of prepping Jimin, listening to his moans and feeling the tightness of his ass, Jeongguk slips his fingers out to prepare himself. He rips open the condom, slides it onto his cock and lubes himself up. He feels overwhelmed and painfully aroused. He just wants to push inside him and make Jimin moan his name. Jeongguk grabs the back of Jimin’s thighs and spreads them further apart as he aligns his cock to Jimin’s entrance.
“I’ll push in slowly, hyung.” He murmurs more to himself than to Jimin.
Jimin nods, holding his breath as Jeongguk pushes into him. He bites his bottom lip, eyebrows furrowing as the tip of Jeongguk’s cock breaches his rim. It burns and throbs, and Jimin quickly realizes that Jeongguk should’ve used three fingers. Poor thing doesn’t realize how well-endowed he truly is or maybe he does.
Jeongguk exhales, releasing his hold on Jimin’s thighs to rest his hands on the mattress. A familiar tightness and warmth surrounds his cock as he continues pushing until he’s finally bottomed out. “Fuck…” he exhales before kissing Jimin to soothe his pain.
Jimin closes his eyes, “M-move,” he huffs, slinging his arms over Jeongguk’s shoulders.
“Okay,” Jeongguk pulls his hips back and then rocks them forward. The bed shakes and he nearly topples over from the sensation of his cock moving deeply inside Jimin.
The first thrust has Jimin seeing white; his back arches and his nails dig into Jeongguk’s back. His body feels alive and he wants nothing more than for Jeongguk to stay inside him forever—to fill him up and claim the deepest parts of him.
Jeongguk thrusts again and a wet slap resounds throughout the bedroom and he shudders as he sinks deeper into Jimin. It’s taking everything in him to maintain a languid pace. His cock twitches and his stomach tenses, but he wants to make this special for Jimin—to make it last.
“A-again,” Jimin pants. “do it again.”
Jeongguk’s eyebrows furrow as he momentarily pulls his hips back before rocking back into Jimin. Jimin moans higher this time and Jeongguk thinks that Jimin’s moans sound as sweet as sugar and he wants to hear it over and over. So, he sucks on Jimin’s neck until a mark appears on his smooth skin.
“Lovely,” Jeongguk sighs.
Jimin has no idea what he’s talking about—can only think about Jeongguk being inside him, how it feels like he’s being split in half and how good it feels to let go like this.
“You’re so lovely, Jimin.” Jeongguk accentuates each word with a thrust, pushing deeper and deeper into Jimin until he grazes his prostate. Jimin reacts with a loud moan, nails trailing down Jeongguk’s back and Jeongguk takes a deep breath to control himself. Make it special, he reminds himself.
Jeongguk leans back to look into Jimin’s eyes and what he sees makes his heart skip. Jimin’s pupils are blown and a tender look causes his eyes to glaze. He’s so beautiful and Jeongguk’s body reacts by pumping the condom with pre-come and causing his hips to twitch forward. Jimin moans lowly, lids fluttering and Jeongguk curses.
“Fuck, I want to,” he swallows. “want to go a little faster. Can I?”
Jimin manages to nod as he wraps his legs around Jeongguk’s waist. “D-do it sweetheart,” he leans up and sucks on Jeongguk’s bottom lip, uttering Jeongguk’s words from earlier. “I’m all yours.”
All mine. The thought echoes in Jeongguk’s mind and the more he thinks about it, the harder it becomes for him to hold back. So, he kisses Jimin deeply, snapping his hips forward and groaning as his cock sinks into Jimin’s warmth. It’s too much yet not enough. Jeongguk wants more—will always want more. He continues thrusting, swallowing each of Jimin’s moans and gripping the bedsheets.
Jimin’s cock throbs against his stomach and with each thrust, he jostles against the bed. It’s so good. Jeongguk knows his body so well, setting the perfect pace and hitting Jimin’s spot with each roll of his hips. He’s fucking perfect in every way and Jimin wants him to know. He needs Jeongguk to know that.
When they separate for air, Jimin murmurs against Jeongguk’s lips, “I s-said it the first time,” Jimin smiles. “you’re a work of art.”
Jeongguk tilts his head with a smirk, “Really?” His hips snap forward, relishing in the way Jimin’s expression melts with pleasure. “Tell me more, baby.”
Jimin moves a hand to grip Jeongguk’s bicep, “You know my body—you k-know me so well.” Jimin’s words are strained because Jeongguk thrusts each time he speaks. “F-fuck me—ah—so well.”
“I do…don’t I?” The moment Jeongguk asks this, he leans back to change their angle. Jimin’s legs slip from around his waist and Jeongguk grabs one of his legs, gripping him by the dip of his knee. He holds Jimin’s leg just above his shoulder, spreading him open.
Jimin’s eyes widen at the new angle and he lays partway on his side, unable to look at Jeongguk who’s still buried inside of him. This new angle leaves Jimin completely at Jeongguk’s mercy—open and desperate for him to move. Jeongguk’s dark eyes sweep across Jimin’s flushed frame, he bites his bottom lip and thrusts forward once.
Jimin yelps, body sliding forward a bit from the force Jeongguk uses.
Jeongguk does it again, slower this time and not once does he blink, afraid he’ll miss the bliss on Jimin’s face.
“Jeongguk, mmm.” Jimin whines, burying his head in the pillows.
“No,” Jeongguk finally speaks—voice hoarse. “want to see your face.”
Jimin quivers, ears completely red.
“Look at me,” Seeing Jimin so shy and flustered causes pride to bloom in his chest. “let me look at you.”
Jimin swears he can hear his own heartbeat, can feel it in his throat as Jeongguk stares him down. He takes a deep breath before turning his head to meet Jeongguk’s intense gaze. He can feel what he does to Jeongguk, can feel his cock swell inside of him. Jeongguk is visibly affected by Jimin’s debauched appearance and he curses under his breath before tightening his grip on Jimin’s leg and slamming into him. He uses his free hand to caress Jimin’s face.
“Fucking gorgeous.” Jeongguk grunts. “Want to look at you all day and fuck you all night.”
The thought of Jeongguk fucking him through the night causes Jimin to shudder and his eyes roll back when the tip of Jeongguk’s cock grazes his prostate. So close, so close.
“Such a s-sight,” Jeongguk praises until he can no longer articulate his thoughts. He quickens his movements, repeatedly slamming into Jimin’s ass. His cock stretches Jimin open and Jeongguk’s eyes briefly close as the pleasure overwhelms him. There’s no place he’d rather be right now. Connected to Jimin this way. No person he’d rather make love to. Just Jimin, only him.
Jimin clutches the bedsheets as he feels his stomach tighten. “C-close, Gguk, I’m—nngh.”
“Don’t touch yourself.” Jeongguk commands in a deep voice. “Want you to cum from my—fuck.” he hisses when Jimin suddenly clenches around him. “My cock only, can you do that?”
“I-if you ask nicely.” Jimin manages to taunt.
Jeongguk laughs lowly as his hips pull back, “Can you please cum from my cock only?”
“Might as well since you asked so nice—aaah.” Jimin’s response is cut short when Jeongguk abruptly thrusts forward, slamming straight into him. Jimin catches the devilish gleam in Jeongguk’s eyes, but instead of being angered, he’s even more turned on. There’s something Jimin really likes about Jeongguk when he’s being authoritative.
Losing control isn’t so bad when it’s at the hands of someone he can trust. Jeongguk fucks him right. Actually, Jeongguk knows how to love him. He understands what buttons to push, how to tease Jimin just right and fuck that’s the spot.
“That’s it,” Jimin blubbers. “there.”
“There? Is that it, baby?” Jeongguk asks, hips working tirelessly.
Jimin nods, mouth falling open as moans are ripped from him. “Yes, that’s it, don’t stop.”
Jeongguk’s eyebrows furrow and he’s raising Jimin’s leg to open him up a bit more and it’s perfect. He watches Jimin come undone. Listens to his hoarse moans and watches the way Jimin’s cock dribbles cum onto his toned stomach. His body shakes as he orgasms, murmuring Jeongguk’s name into the pillows. Jeongguk follows him, brushing a thumb along Jimin’s bottom lip and thrusting rapidly as he cums into the condom. His body tingles and his chest heaves as he struggles to catch his breath. Jimin studies Jeongguk’s pleasured expression—closed eyes, parted lips, dark bangs matted to his forehead and his bobbing adam’s apple—he looks sinful.
I did that, Jimin thinks with a prideful smile.
Jeongguk releases Jimin’s leg and collapses against him. He breathes harshly into Jimin’s neck. Jimin moans lightly as Jeongguk shifts inside of him. He kind of doesn’t want Jeongguk to pull out, but he needs to so they can wash up.
“You need to move,” Jimin mutters.
“If I move, I’ll see you.” Jeongguk replies. “And I’ll get hard again.” Jeongguk knows Jimin looks completely ruined, he got a good look just before he came, but it wasn’t enough.
“Then close your eyes.” Jimin snaps back as he shoves Jeongguk aside. Jeongguk’s cock slips out of him and Jimin grimaces at the sensation. When he looks down, he groans in frustration upon seeing the drying cum on his stomach.
“You lay there.” Jeongguk says, immediately understanding Jimin’s frustrations. “I’ll clean you up.”
Jimin makes a move to stop Jeongguk, but Jeongguk’s off the bed in seconds, fumbling to slide off the condom and toss it in a nearby bin. Jimin watches him go, heart thrumming with adoration and ass sore. He’s going to feel it tomorrow morning, but it’s a welcome pain. The pain that comes after being properly loved. In all honesty, he could go for another round. Jeongguk makes him feel safe and satisfied.
“Towel’s a bit warm,” Jeongguk says, stepping back into the room still fully naked.
Jimin gives him the up and down before rolling onto his stomach. His heart flutters when the bed dips beside his feet and he closes his eyes. Jeongguk places a gentle hand to the back of Jimin’s thighs and reminds himself to calm down because now’s not the time to get hard again. He carefully wipes Jimin, spreading his butt cheeks to properly clean the lube from inside of him. Jimin grimaces, moving a bit on the bed.
“Doing okay?” Jeongguk asks softly.
“Mhm, thank you.”
Once Jeongguk’s finished cleaning him up, he leans down to press a kiss to the back of Jimin’s thighs, so close to his ass.
Jimin shudders, “Sweetheart?”
“Sorry,” Jeongguk pulls back. “I like to kiss after sex.”
Jimin snorts, “Sounds like a cheap excuse to kiss my ass.”
“Cheap?” Jeongguk scoffs. “I’m offended.” He gives Jimin’s ass a light slap, dick threatening to get hard again as he watches the way Jimin’s ass jiggles.
Jimin flops onto his back and gazes at Jeongguk, “Put some clothes on and we can kiss all you want.”
Like an over eager puppy, Jeongguk clambers off the bed and into his boxers. Jimin watches with a smile, covering his naked body with the bedsheets. He pats the empty space beside him and Jeongguk fills it with his warm body. Jimin snuggles close, wrapping his arms around Jeongguk and burying his face in Jeongguk’s chest. He listens to the rhythmic thump-thump of his heart and closes his eyes.
“I thought we were going to kiss.” Jeongguk jokingly mutters into the top of Jimin’s head.
“In a minute…I just want to stay like this for a little while longer.”
Jeongguk smiles sweetly, “Whatever you want.”
They naturally fall into a comfortable silence. Jimin contemplates whether he should fall asleep in Jeongguk’s arms—spend the night and wake up in the morning with Jeongguk by his side. The thought sounds really nice, but he knows tomorrow’s going to be too chaotic for such luxuries. Ah…morning sex. That’d be nice too.
“I wish I could stay…” Jimin murmurs as he leans back to look up into Jeongguk’s eyes.
“You can. I won’t stop you.”
Jimin laughs lightly, “I know you won’t.”
Jeongguk leans down to suddenly steal a kiss and Jimin happily reciprocates it. “Stay,” he whispers once they separate.
“Sweetheart,”
“I can drop you off at your place first thing in the morning. Doesn’t’ matter how early, I can do that for you.” Jeongguk continues and his eyes are sparkling with hope and determination.
“I need to go back to my place tonight.”
Jeongguk doesn’t bother to ask why because he knows how busy Jimin’s been writing his book and preparing articles for Jeongguk’s fan meet.
“And you have rehearsals first thing in the morning.” Jimin leans in to press his lips to the mole beneath Jeongguk’s bottom lip. “Did you forget?”
“I tend to forget things when there’s other things I’d rather be doing.” Jeongguk answers simply as his hand slides down Jimin’s hip to rest against his ass. Ever so slowly, he slides the blanket down from Jimin’s hips.
“Don’t get any ideas.” Jimin snaps, but he doesn’t bother to cover himself back up. “I’m too tired to go again.”
“I’ll eat you out, so you don’t have to move.”
Jimin’s gaze darkens as he stares into Jeongguk’s equally dark eyes. “Jeongguk.” he warns but this time he sounds a bit breathless.
“What?” Jeongguk’s fingers grab a handful of Jimin’s ass and he gingerly squeezes. “I’m serious.”
“No, no, we—you can’t.” Jimin tries to push himself out of Jeongguk’s arms, but Jeongguk holds him tight.
“Let me. It’ll relax you before you completely wreck yourself with work.” Jeongguk loosens his grip and carefully motions for Jimin to roll onto his stomach.
Jimin obeys because this is how things always work with Jeongguk and he’s still a bit surprised by how easily he allows for Jeongguk to take control now.
Once Jimin’s on his stomach, Jeongguk moves behind him and helps Jimin lift his legs so his ass is in the air and his torso is pressed to the bed. Jeongguk strokes Jimin’s buttocks, eyes gleaming with desire. “Perfect.”
Jimin shudders because Jeongguk’s voice is lower than usual and his breath blows against Jimin’s ass. Thinking about it now, Jimin realizes that Sungwoon never offered to eat him out. Jimin had to practically beg for it, but here he is now with his cheeks being spread by Jeongguk’s strong hands. God, he really couldn’t ask for a better soon to be partner.
Jeongguk leans in close and without a second thought, he kisses Jimin’s pink rim and Jimin’s hips jerk. Jeongguk isn’t bothered by the remnants of lube—doesn’t even think about it as he flicks his tongue against Jimin’s taut muscle. Jimin quivers, clutching the blankets and pushing back against Jeongguk’s mouth.
The stress and anxiety melts right off his shoulders and he doesn’t think about anything as Jeongguk dines on his ass. He’s willing to wait for me? Jimin moans as Jeongguk holds him by the hip to keep him in place as he fucks him with his tongue. How’d I get so damn lucky? Jimin winds up contemplating this all the way through his second orgasm of the night and he continues to think about it as Jeongguk cleans him up and drives him home. The next morning, on his way to the office, he calls Hoseok to fill him in on the (juicy) details of his evening with Jeongguk.
“He offered to eat my ass, Hoseok.” Jimin declares as he speeds through a yellow light. “Offered!”
“You sound excited—refreshed even.” Hoseok answers with a chuckle.
Jimin groans with joy, eyes practically rolling back as he thinks about last night. “It felt like I was melting and he was just so sweet about it, and sexy.” Jimin gushes, adding with a sigh, “He’s so good to me.”
“I’m happy for you.”
This is when it hits Jimin. He’s happy. Genuinely happy and the happiness makes him feel so light. “Yeah, thanks,” he flicks his hair out of his face with a smile. “I’m happy for me too.”
“Did you talk? You know…about a future with him?”
“Yeah,” Jimin replies. “we decided to take a break ‘till we get our shit together.”
“Wow,” Hoseok sighs in awe. “I think you two are going to have something really special.”
Jimin laughs, “You think so?”
“Yeah, I can feel it in my Balenciaga’s.”
Jimin laughs again and this happiness follows him throughout the rest of his busy week and eventually to Jeongguk’s fan meet which falls on Jeongguk’s birthday. Jimin stands in the waiting room designated for Jeongguk’s staff. He was told by an arena crew member that Jeongguk will be on stage in thirty minutes. Jimin hopes he has a chance to talk to him before then.
Also in the room are Dahye and Eunwoo. They both seem anxious as they sit opposite of Jimin.
“I’m terrified as fuck for him.” Dahye blurts, clenching her hands together.
Eunwoo nods, “It’s been a while since he’s performed in front of such a big audience.”
Dahye says nothing, simply gives him a look before turning to Jimin. “What about you? How are you feeling?”
“A lot of things.” Jimin laughs nervously. “It’s like my entire body is full of butterflies.”
“I can totally relate.” Dahye replies. “Feels like my son is finally spreading his wings.”
Wings. Yeah, that’s exactly what Jeongguk is doing.
Eunwoo looks confusedly between them, wanting to ask something, but missing the chance to because the door opens and Jeongguk steps inside.
When Jimin sees him, his eyes widen, and his heart skips a beat. Stunning is an understatement. Jeongguk looks like a prince in a leather jacket and gold trim shirt. He has a mic set on and security by his side. It’s moments like these that remind Jimin how much of a celebrity Jeongguk truly is. The aura he emits is completely different and when Jeongguk looks at him with those deep eyes, Jimin’s throat goes dry.
“Hyung,” Jeongguk walks over to him with a charming smile.
Jimin struggles to recover from the onslaught of flutters in his chest. “H-hey,”
“I’m so happy to see you.” Jeongguk says tenderly.
“What!” Dahye shouts. “You’re not happy to see us?!”
Jeongguk turns to her, tender expression shifting with amusement. “I saw you two the entire day. I’m just now seeing Jimin.”
“So?” Dahye snaps back.
As the three of them bicker, Jimin continues to stare up at Jeongguk. He’s completely starstruck by Jeongguk’s appearance and giddy with the thought of seeing him perform. He looks amazing, Jimin thinks as his gaze slides slowly down Jeongguk’s lean figure. After that night at Jeongguk’s place, they agreed to not have sex until they’ve personally sorted things out, but Jimin can’t help the thoughts that run through his mind. Jeongguk looks good. Jimin’s aching to tell him that—show him in other explicit ways.
Suddenly, Jeongguk turns back to Jimin and smirks when he realizes Jimin’s been staring him down the entire time. Jimin flusters, nearly choking on his spit when Jeongguk catches his gaze. Shit.
“H-happy birthday.” Jimin mutters to cover for himself, but he knows Jeongguk’s not going to buy it.
Jeongguk’s smirk broadens, “Thanks, gorgeous.”
Jimin’s cheeks flush and Dahye gawks at them, eyes flicking between them in shock. Eunwoo’s confusion grows even more, but the longer he stares at Jeongguk staring at Jimin, the pieces fall into place. It clicks.
“Hey, Dahye,” he leans over to ask in a whisper. “are they…?”
Dahye nods, “Took you long enough.”
Eunwoo leans back, expression blank as he tries to sort out his thoughts. He wonders why he never realized it and mentally kicks himself for assuming the person Jeongguk liked was a woman.
The door opens again and a crew member steps inside. “Jeongguk, we need you on the lift in five minutes.” She informs.
Jeongguk nods her way, “Alright, I’m coming now.” he gives Jimin’s hand a quick squeeze before walking away.
*
The stage lights are brighter than usual and Jeongguk burns a bit as he stands beneath them. His fans scream his name; a few cry while others jump up and down hysterically. He takes his time, looking at each side of the arena and the full seats. When the track for one of his songs starts to play, Jeongguk brings the mic to his lips and sings.
The fan meet progresses smoothly. He plays games with the fans, answers a couple questions, and performs his hit songs. Before he even realizes it, it’s already time for the VCR that will reshape his life. The VCR starts with a closed blue door and the camera zooms in slowly as the door opens. On the other side of the door is a bird on a blue ground that gradually changes colors. From red to orange, to green and yellow. As the bird walks along the colorful ground, an instrumental of Jeongguk’s song plays in the background.
Jeongguk stands backstage, awaiting his cue to return to stage and he feels like vomiting. The longer the VCR plays, the more his dizziness grows. He places a hand to his heart and closes his eyes.
The VCR ends with the bird flying across the rainbow sky and fans begin to hesitantly cheer as the screen fades to black. It’s an extremely abstract VCR in which Jeongguk doesn’t appear at all, but he’s certain his fans can infer that he’s the bird. As for the meaning of the rainbow sky and ground? That’s something he’ll need to further explain. So, he opens his eyes and walks out onto the stage. Screams erupt throughout the arena and he smiles, walking to the center of the stage.
The screams die out when Jeongguk brings the mic to his lips. “Confusing, right?” he jokes and giggles echo throughout the arena. He shakes the nerves from his hands. “I thought a lot about how I wanted to tell you all this—if I ever wanted to tell you, but…here I am now.” He pauses, gathers himself and continues. “I’m trembling a bit as I hold this mic, haha. But uhm…I need to say this for myself because I’m tired of being someone I’m not.”
Jeongguk looks out into the audience, making out a few faces and their confused yet intrigued expressions.
“I liked someone in high school. All I could see was them, think of them, smile with them and I just loved everything about them. So, one day I got the courage to tell them and…it didn’t end well.” Jeongguk squeezes his eyes shut, takes another deep breath to calm himself. He reminds himself that he can do this—needs to do this for himself. “I was rejected and became afraid of myself and my sexuality—what it meant. I’d be shunned, targeted and hurt in so many ways.”
The emotions remain so vivid and raw, and real. They fill his throat and suddenly it’s hard to breathe, but Jeongguk pushes through it. It’s now or never. He opens his eyes and goes for it. “The person I liked, my best friend, was a guy. I fell in love with a guy.”
A heavy silence fills the arena and a few fans sit with their hands clamped over their mouths. Some turn and begin whispering to each other, while others stare at the big screen in shock.
“The bird in the VCR represents me and I thought so hard about how I wanted to express myself,” he rocks on the heels of his shoes. “I thought over and over about posting a video or a tweet or doing something else instead. Then I realized…I feel more at home when I’m on stage.”
Jeongguk continues to explain that he grew up on the stage, performing, crying and expressing himself through his music. This is where he belongs. Every part of his identity belongs here.
“So, to sum all of that up…” he laughs airily, “I’m…gay?”
An audible gasp shakes the arena, but Jeongguk tries again because that wasn’t right. He lifts his head and holds his mic tightly as he declares, “I’m gay.”
It feels like he’s travelling back in time to when he first confessed his feelings to his childhood friend. The tightness in his chest and the pure fear as he stands in front of thousands. Sitting backstage and watching from a monitor, Jimin shakes all over and his eyes are wet. Dahye’s frozen with dread as Eunwoo holds her.
Jeongguk braces himself for the backlash; fans leaving their seats and booing, but none of that happens. A steady clap builds before erupting into thunderous applause. There are a few fans who don’t join in on the applause, but Jeongguk’s too overwhelmed to notice. His legs are shaking and he’s certain he’ll topple over if he doesn’t sit soon. Luckily, there’s only one performance left and it’s over.
When the fan meet officially ends, Jeongguk walks backstage, passing staff members who hesitantly bow his way. A few clap when he passes them and others try not to make eye contact. Jeongguk doesn’t care, can only think about seeing Jimin and embracing him. He walks briskly down the hall and bursts through the waiting room doors.
Jimin jumps from his seat, eyes wide as Jeongguk rushes towards him. Before he even has a chance to speak, Jeongguk is pulling him into his arms and burying his face in Jimin’s shoulder.
Dahye and Eunwoo stare from their seats in shock and a few of the security guards look away.
“Thank you.” Jeongguk whispers into Jimin’s neck.
Jimin slowly wraps his arms around Jeongguk’s back and realizes how much Jeongguk is trembling.
“Thank you so much.” Jeongguk holds him tighter, eyebrows furrowed as he tries not to cry.
After a moment, Jimin says softly, “Are you prepared for everything?”
“Somewhat,” Jeongguk leans back to look Jimin in the eye. "I'm not afraid though...since I have you."
Jimin rubs circles into Jeongguk's back, “Get some rest tonight, I’ll handle the media.”
“I didn't mean it like that, Jimin. I mean--”
Jimin shushes him with the warm look in his eyes and Jeongguk just knows he knows. They continue to speak to each other in a soft tone, one that has everyone else in the room blushing and questioning just what their relationship is.
Dahye clears her throat, “I don’t get a hug?” she teases, opening her arms wide.
Jeongguk rolls his eyes but walks over and pulls her into a hug. “Thank you too, Dahye.”
“Anytime, my precious, Googie.”
Jeongguk then turns to Eunwoo who’s awkwardly fiddling with the hem of his shirt. Jeongguk smiles as he reaches out to Eunwoo, “Did I shock you?”
“N-no,”
“Was it obvious then?”
Eunwoo shakes his head, “I had my thoughts, but…I never thought—I’m sorry.” He fumbles over his words, unsure how he should convey to Jeongguk that he accepts him for who he is. But there’s a look on Jeongguk’s face—gentle and kind—that shows he understands what’s on Eunwoo’s mind.
“Don’t sweat it, we can talk over a celebratory dinner tonight.”
Dahye cheers, “Jeongguk’s paying!”
“Me? Since when?”
“Since now.” Dahye singsongs.
Jeongguk gives in with a groan and he gives Jimin another hug before leaving to change out of his stage clothes. When he returns, Namjoon has joined them backstage with company. Jeongguk takes in the beaming faces of Seokjin, Taehyung and Hoseok.
“We heard you were treating.” Namjoon says.
“I guess so.”
Hoseok whistles, leaning into Taehyung with a smile.
That night, Jeongguk has never felt such freedom before, but what comes after his coming out is chaos. Tabloids rush to get the details of which celebrity made him realize he was gay and if he knows anyone else who might be gay in the industry. Their insensitivity pisses Jimin off and he releases an announcement regarding Jeongguk’s future interviews and public appearances. Jeongguk loses a few brand deals and even some celebrity acquaintances who don’t bother to understand him. They even go so far as to claim they knew he was gay because of how he acted. Total bullshit.
Jimin also works through the night to decline numerous reporters and magazines who aim to paint Jeongguk a certain way. There are a few outlets that begin to question Jeongguk’s relationship with Jimin, pushing for more and building a scandalous narrative.
Jimin crafts up a press release, detailing the importance of the VCR and why his client, Jeongguk, came out that way. He words the release carefully, indirectly calling out the media outlets who are pushing to out other idols and celebrities. He doesn’t bother to address the rumors regarding his relationship with Jeongguk.
When Jeongguk agrees to do an interview three days after his fan meet, he spends the night before on the phone with Jimin. They go over his talking points, how to answer certain questions and what questions to decline if he feels uncomfortable. They’re both mentally exhausted at this point, but hearing each other’s voices is comforting.
Jeongguk sighs, “Would it have been better if I never came ou—”
“Don’t even finish that sentence.” Jimin snaps on the other line. “You did what was right for you.”
“I just have a lot of doubts right now.” Jeongguk murmurs. “Whether I could’ve made a different decision.”
“And what? Continue being someone you’re not?”
Jeongguk goes silent.
“You deserve to be you. Yeah, it’s going to be hard—fucking hard, but I know you can get through this. Besides,” Jimin’s tone softens. “you have me. Not as your publicist or lover, but as a partner. Rely on me a little.”
“I am relying on you.”
“Rely on me more.” Jimin doesn’t hesitate to reply. “You just came out to the entire country—the world—I know it’s getting to you. I know you, Jeongguk. I can see it in your eyes and hear it in your voice.”
Jeongguk doesn’t argue against that, he can’t because it’s the truth. He knows Jimin understands him better than anyone else. There’s no hiding from him.
“Okay…”
Jimin sighs in relief, “Good, okay…then don’t ever ask anything like that again.”
“Okay,”
“Understood?” Jimin repeats.
Jeongguk laughs, shouting, “Understood, Mr. Park!”
And just like that, a month passes. Within that month some of Jeongguk’s biggest fansites close. A few others show their support for him by changing their profile photo to a rainbow and trending hashtags of support. XS Ent does their best to filter and sue the defamers, but it’s not like Jeongguk doesn’t see the hate. It’s there—the disgust and discrimination, but he gets through it because of the people around him.
Another month blurs by and the hate begins to die out and with it comes a new wave of fans. Fans that support him no matter how he identifies and Jeongguk’s able to perform again in front of a smaller audience. He also finds inspiration for his next album and throughout all this is Jimin. His other half, his ‘you are me, I am you’, his partner in crime.
“So,” Namjoon hesitantly begins as they sit in the studio. “you aren’t dating?”
Jeongguk nods, preoccupied with the buttons on the music panel. They’re in the studio to begin recording for Jeongguk’s next album. Jeongguk’s asked to make this album more personal than his last ones. He wants to convey his coming out story and how it felt hiding himself all this time.
“You want to date him though…right?”
“Of course, I do!” Jeongguk exclaims. “But we decided a few months ago to take a break…just until we sort ourselves out.” he squints at Namjoon. “I thought I told you all this, hyung.”
“You did, I’m just going over it again.”
Jeongguk scoffs, swiveling in the desk chair and spinning for a moment. “It sounds complicated, but it isn’t, not really.”
“Do you…kiss or I don’t know, sleep together? At all?”
Jeongguk stops spinning, “Nope, but I would love to.”
After that night, they agreed to keep the skin ship to a minimum. They talked about it as Jeongguk drove Jimin home, setting boundaries.
“Must be hard.” Namjoon murmurs, thinking about his relationship with Seokjin.
“Mm, not at all because I know at the end of all this, he’s waiting for me.”
Namjoon studies Jeongguk’s tender expression and he’s happy to see Jeongguk at ease like this. “When do you think you’ll both be ready to make it official?”
Jeongguk ponders a moment and says confidently, “Soon. Very soon.”
‘Soon’ comes around a month later when Jeongguk goes on break and Jimin invites him to take a trip to Busan. They’re sitting in Jeongguk’s living room with a box of pizza between them when Jimin poses the question:
“Want to come to Busan with me?”
Jeongguk chokes on his corn pizza, coughing into his hand and looking wide-eyed at Jimin.
Jimin silently reaches over to wipe the corner of Jeongguk’s mouth with his thumb. “Careful, sweetheart.”
Jeongguk manages to catch his breath, hitting his chest a couple times before asking, “Wh-why?”
Jimin shrugs, “You’re on break, I’m on break and I told my mom I planned on visiting.”
“We’re going to see your mom!?” Jeongguk shouts.
Jimin laughs, “Yes, we are.”
We. Us. Our--Jimin likes how that sounds.
Jeongguk goes silent and Jimin studies his expression, grinning when he notices Jeongguk’s bouncing leg. “You’re freaking out on me.”
“No, I’m not.” Jeongguk murmurs.
Jimin scoots closer to him and takes Jeongguk’s hand in his. “I want you to meet her, but not if it scares you.”
Jeongguk stares down at their intertwined hands. Seeing Jimin’s mom means learning more about him. His childhood, where he grew up, his deceased father. Going to Busan is a big step in their relationship, at least that’s how Jeongguk views it. “It doesn’t scare me, I’m just—what should I get her?”
Jimin breaks into a smile, finding Jeongguk’s actions endearing. “Nothing, she appreciates someone who’s willing to help.”
Jeongguk nods eagerly, “I can help out around the restaurant while we’re there.”
Jimin laughs lightly.
“It’ll probably be busy since the holidays are coming up,” Jeongguk rambles. “I can hang up posters, clean, wait tables.”
“Gguk,”
“I can also run errands for her. I hear the snow’s going to be pretty heavy this yea—”
Jimin shushes him with a deep kiss, melting his worries with their natural intimacy. They haven’t kissed in a while, but it comes as naturally as the first time. He leans back, gazing into Jeongguk’s eyes. “She’s going to love you.”
Jeongguk immediately relaxes, cast under the spell Jimin has over him and he gets that look in his eyes. The one that’s reserved for Jimin. “If you say so.”
Jimin kisses him again, “I know so.”
Their conversation shifts to how they’re going to get to Busan and Jeongguk makes a joke about the movie ‘Train to Busan.’ Jimin doesn’t find it funny because the mere thought of losing Jeongguk to zombies makes him sick.
“You’re really on vacation?” Jeongguk asks once they’ve finished their zombie discussion.
“Yep, Seokjin was kind enough to give me a month off.” Jimin answers, leaving out the part where he threatened to cut off Seokjin’s hand if he said otherwise. “I’m keeping my notifications off the entire time; you should do the same.”
“Are you telling me as my publicist?”
Jimin rolls his eyes, “No,”
“Then you’re telling me as…?” Jeongguk remains close, expression reminiscent of an eager puppy.
“You know.” Jimin grumbles shyly.
“Do I really?”
Jimin shoves him in the chest, “I’m not giving you the satisfaction.”
Jeongguk makes a sound in the back of his throat as he watches Jimin rise to his feet. “Come on. Is the B-word that hard to say?”
“Not at all.”
Jeongguk reaches for Jimin’s wrist and gently holds it, “Then say it.”
“You say it.” Jimin childishly replies.
Jeongguk chuckles because Jimin’s adorable. “I love it when you get like this.”
Jimin yanks his hand out of Jeongguk’s hold and bends down to gather the pizza boxes “We should start looking for a place to stay.” He says, changing the topic.
“Why? I thought we were staying with your mother?”
Jimin freezes and eyes Jeongguk, and Jeongguk’s jaw drops slowly when he realizes just what it means for them to book their own place.
“Oh,” Jeongguk laughs nervously. “that’s why.”
Jimin says nothing further and Jeongguk gets up to help him finish cleaning and tries not to think about spending several nights with Jimin in a different city. Ultimately, he fails.
A week later when they leave for Busan, snow falls from the sky and it’s extremely cold, but Jeongguk likes the cold. It gives him more chances to hold Jimin. They stand huddled together, awaiting the train. They spent the morning doing some last-minute packing and messaging their friends to tell them they’ll be off the grid for a month or so. Translation: leave us the fuck alone because we’re on our unofficial honeymoon.
The train headed to Busan screeches to a stop in front of them and Jimin grimaces, clutching onto Jeongguk’s hand a bit tighter. Jeongguk leans into him, ears red and eyes glazed as he thinks about meeting Jimin’s mother. He spent the entire week before thinking about how he should greet her. He even did a couple practices in front of Eunwoo who he cast as Jimin's mom.
“Will your mom like me?” he asks suddenly.
Jimin turns to face him and laughs upon seeing Jeongguk’s distraught expression. “I told you, she'll adore you.” He rests a hand against Jeongguk’s face. “You're like a puppy, she loves puppies.”
“Really?”
Jimin muffles a laugh, “No, she likes cats more. I think she has a cat named Louis.”
Jeongguk’s expression immediately falls into a pout and he looks so adorable.
Jimin pinches his cheeks, “I’m just joking, sweetheart.”
But Jeongguk can’t seem to calm down as he thinks about properly greeting Jimin’s mother, doing it right and not messing it up. He really wants her respect and, in some sense, her blessing because he’s decided that he wants to spend a lifetime with Jimin.
“I’m still nervous as fuck.” Jeongguk grumbles.
Jimin releases his hold on Jeongguk’s hand and cups his face, bringing him close. “Don’t be.”
“Nearly impossible, gorgeous.” Jeongguk mutters without looking Jimin in the eye.
“Look at me.” Jimin urges.
Jeongguk does so reluctantly, lips pulled tight. Jimin smiles and kisses him briefly. “She’ll like you because I like you and she knows I only choose the best.” he teases.
“Are you being for real?”
Jimin nods, squishing Jeongguk’s cheeks. “Yes, now put your sunglasses back on…people are staring.”
Jeongguk does as he’s told, slipping his dark sunglasses over his eyes and tugging his hoodie over his head.
“Much better.” Jimin intertwines their fingers and beams up at Jeongguk. “Let’s go.”
They haven’t verbalized or labeled what they are because they no longer feel the need to do so and to others, it’s quite obvious to see what they mean to each other. If Jimin’s mother is to ask, Jimin will explain that there’s no one else he wants to spend the rest of his life with. Jeongguk has helped him heal and grow, and Jimin's become someone who's no longer shackled by his past traumas.
When they load onto the train, they drag their bags behind them, bowing to a few other passengers on the way. If they recognize Jeongguk, they don’t say anything and Jeongguk appreciates it. Ever since his coming out, his face has been plastered everywhere and he’s had to readjust to his new life labeled as a “gay idol.” It hasn’t been easy and Jeongguk’s gone through several slumps. The joy and optimism come in waves.
They walk to the far end of the train where Jeongguk reserved a private booth. After tucking their bags away, they plop into the leather seats, taking a moment to catch their breath. Jeongguk shrugs off his coat and reaches over to help Jimin out of his.
“Thanks,” Jimin murmurs, leaning over to steal a kiss. When he tries to pull away , Jeongguk holds him by his nape, deepening the kiss. Jeongguk’s hungry for more; can’t wait to make love to Jimin again.
“You ever had sex on a train?” Jeongguk asks breathlessly, tracing Jimin’s lips with his tongue.
Jimin makes a face, “No and I don't plan on it.”
“Baby, we should try it on the way back.” Jeongguk says lowly as he kisses Jimin again. “I can rock my hips in tempo to the train moving.”
Jimin’s expression sours, “You're absolutely insane.”
Jeongguk grins, “You love it.”—and you love me.
Jimin doesn’t hesitate to answer, “That I do.” and with a smile he realizes some beasts are better left untamed.
-FIN-