Seven Minutes, Seven Lives!

by Taekookguards

Summary:

With Jungkook, Taehyung learns the difference between Love and Attraction.

And,

With Taehyung, Jungkook learns if the love is true, then the universe completes the story itself.

Notes:

"You keep staring. Do I know you?" Taehyung asks the stranger in the shopping mall.

Jungkook swallows, "you are my last 7 minutes of memories before death."

 

The prompt

Taehyung looks at the collections of wrist watches as Jimin's eyes scan through the styles.

He’s looking for a watch that will look perfect on Yoongi's wrist.

All of them look fancy. Taehyung is already thinking of buying one for Seojoon for his birthday. With the money his father has, he can buy all of them. He himself is wearing a Rolex.

Though he doesn't know when he’ll have the guts to approach Seojoon and give him the gift—the perfume Taehyung bought last year stayed in his cupboard and didn't reach the alpha at all. Because Taehyung just couldn't approach him with the gift. That man is his crush.

Sighing at his own thoughts, the omega averts his gaze from the huge glass box holding the collection of watches and his eyes lock on something else…someone else.

Judging by appearance, Taehyung assumes the person is an alpha. He can be wrong though.

But that’s not what Taehyung is concerned about though. He’s more bewildered about the alpha's stare.

Taehyung furrows his eyebrows and looks away, setting them back on the collection.

He realises Jimin is still choosing, so he doesn't disturb him. But his mind can't seem to focus on the items in front of him anymore.

He presses his lips together in a thin line. He wonders if the man is still looking at him or not. 

The urge to turn his head again and look at the stranger is eating at him. 

Maybe their eyes just met? Maybe the alpha wasn't actually staring? 

To know for sure, Taehyung needs to look in that direction again.

The gaze he’d caught was intense. He doesn't know why but he’s feeling a little nervous.

And the fact that Taehyung already caught him staring isn’t helping at all. 

No, he can’t control his curiosity. So he tilts his head again and his breath hitches. 

Because the stranger is still staring. With the same intense gaze.

But this time, instead of feeling nervous or scared, Taehyung feels annoyed.

“Chim,” he calls out. 

Jimin hums and looks at his best friend, “Yeah?”

“You choose the watch, I’ll check out some other stuff and be right back,” Taehyung says. Jimin nods, and Taehyung walks towards the man who’s standing behind another display case. 

There’s no customer near him. 

And that’s probably what gives him the time to ogle at Taehyung. 

Shameless. 

On the other hand, the alpha's heartbeat increases when he sees the beautiful omega walking towards his counter.

“What’s your name?” The omega asks.

The man finally blinks his eyes and stutters out nervously, “J-jungkook.” He can't believe the omega is standing right in front of him.

Taehyung nods, “Ok, Jungkookssi. I’m here to ask you something.”

Jungkook gets nervous, “Yes?” He probably knows what’s coming next. And he’s right.

“You keep staring at me. Do I know you?” Taehyung asks the stranger.

Jungkook swallows, steels. “You are my last seven minutes of memories before death,” he doesn't hesitate or stutter when utters that.

A silence falls between them as none of them talk.

Taehyung stares at the alpha's face as if he’s hearing something unreal.

Yeah, it is unreal.

Taehyung lets out a chuckle as he shakes his head, “Are you okay in the head?”

Jungkook nods, “Yes.”

“I don't think so. If you were, you wouldn't say something so stupid,” there omega rolls his eyes again. 

Jungkook frowns, “Stupid? It's not stupid. I’m not lying,” he says quickly.

“You want me to believe this shit?” Taehyung asks.

The alpha nods his head slowly. “Trust me. I’m not lying.”

He’s not lying. He remembers it. The continuous recurrence of the same dream can’t be wrong. 

A vivid dream where Jungkook sees himself with a male omega, kissing him, loving him and promising to spend a life with him.

The dream started visiting him when he was twelve, when he started understanding human psychology, when he started being aware of romantic feelings.

It seems like his past life. He can't remember how he died then, but he has a feeling that he died without completing his love story. 

The memory showed him the omega's tears too.

When he had this dream for the first time, Jungkook brushed it off thinking it must be one of those weird, meaningless dreams. Because after two or three times, it didn't show up again.

After years, he dreamt it again at fifteen, then at eighteen. After that, the dreams became regular and Jungkook couldn't avoid them anymore. 

The same flashes of memories again and again.

When curiosity took over him, he asked Namjoon, his doctor cousin, about it. 

Namjoon, an expert with diverse knowledge, told him it could be the last few minutes of memories from his past life that stayed with him.

Namjoon hardly said anything without research. Jungkook didn't have any reason to doubt him. So he believed. 

He’d seen the face of the boy in his dreams–the boy whom he loved in his past life.

He’d wondered if an omega like the one in his dream really exists in this life.

He didn't realise the meaning of these dreams at first. Because why was he suddenly seeing the last seven minutes of memories before his death? 

He wasn’t paying attention to it at the time. 

But now, he is. Right after he spotted the omega whom he’s seen in his dreams, whom he believes to be his lover from his previous life, he’s paying attention to it.

This is the exact face he sees in his dreams. He can't be wrong. This omega occupies the last few minutes of his memories before death.

He’s sure.

Jungkook wanders his eyes over the boy’s face, taking in his beautiful features.

‘Pretty.’

Jungkook thinks.

“Hello? Jungkookssi?” Taehyung snaps his fingers in front of the alpha's eyes when finds Jungkook staring at his face without blinking. 

“You look young. Around my age,” Taehyung hums, “So it's better if you stop talking nonsense-”

“‘I’m not talking nonsense,” Jungkook frowns. “I know you won’t believe me, but it's true.”

The omega tongues his cheek in annoyance, “Do you want anything from me? Money? I can give you that. I'm pretty rich-”

“I don't need your money,” Jungkook says. “Why is your first thought that I want money?”

Taehyung shrugs, “Well, it’s not a regular thing for people to come and tell me that I'm their last minutes of dying memories or whatever-”

“Has anyone ever told you that?” Jungkook's question confuses the omega—Jungkook understands and continues, “No, right? I'm the first person who's saying something like this.”

“You make no sense. My friend wanted me to report you to your boss but I didn't, seeing you might be as young as me.” The omega rages as his eyes scan the alpha's face for a while. 

He doesn't know why but there’s a weird sensation in his guts.

Jungkook opens his mouth to say something when Jimin suddenly calls out for Taehyung. 

The omega turns his head to look at his best friend.

Jimin waves his hand, “Taehyung-ah, I’m done buying it. Let's go.”

Taehyung nods before he gives his attention back to Jungkook.

“I’m leaving. But let me suggest this. Don't stare at anyone like this again. People may not be as generous as me. They’ll actually report you to your manager. Don't go around calling omegas your lover and don't tell them that they are the last memories of your previous life. It can get you in big trouble. Understand?” He says and turns on his heels.

The alpha doesn't stop him. He watches Taehyung walk up to his friend and check out the watch he just bought. 

Taehyung smiles, probably impressed by it. 

Jungkook observes. He doesn't pay heed to the omega’s suggestion. He keeps his eyes on Taehyung. 

He watches them walk to the exit, his stare firm. His tensed eyebrows relax when Taehyung turns his head a little to steal a glance at Jungkook before quickly looking away and exiting the shop.

The alpha smirks. Taehyung might have acted tough a while ago but Jungkook knows it won’t last long. 

He won’t let go of the omega. He couldn't complete his love story in his previous life. And when he’s given another chance to complete it this time, he won’t let it go.

Seeing Taehyung today made the puzzle pieces fall in place. Jungkook realizes why he fell for the omega in the past. Just by seeing him in front of himself, Jungkook can feel his erratic heartbeat.

Taehyung. He thinks of the name. He’s bound to be Taehyung's. Their love story must reach a destination this time. 

 

💫

 

Taehyung doesn't look up from his phone even as the class teacher welcomes a new student. 

He’s busy scrolling- no, stalking Seojoon’s insta photos. He finds them more interesting than whoever the transfer student is. 

But that’s until he hears the newcomer's voice. And name.

“Hello, everyone. I’m Jeon Jungkook, a new student here. Please take care of me,” the boy bows.

Taehyung snaps his head up and looks at Jungkook with wide eyes. 

‘What the fuck is he doing here?’ he asks himself, staring at the alpha in shock. 

Taehyung's breath catches in his throat when Jungkook moves his eyes slowly before they stop on the omega.

He frowns and looks away. And that's when he notices that the only empty seat in the whole class is the one behind him.

Which means—

Fuck fuck fuck!

Taehyung curses under his breath as Jungkook makes his way to the desk.

Jungkook sits on the chair and leans towards Taehyung before he whispers, “Nice to meet you again, Taehyung.”

The omega doesn't reply, doesn't turn his attention back to Jungkook either and keeps his eyes glued to his books on the desk.

He hears the alpha chuckling before everyone opens their books and the class begins.

 

💫

 

“Why the hell are you following me everywhere?” Taehyung hisses, eyes shooting daggers at the alpha in front of him.

Jungkook runs his tongue over his dry lips before he shrugs, “I want to be your friend, Taehyung.”

How funny of him to think that Taehyung will buy it.

The omega gives him a disappointed look, “Following me to the university wasn't enough? Now you’ve even joined the dance classes? Just to be my friend?” Taehyung asks in disbelief, his hand fixing the white unitard he’s wearing

Jungkook is wearing a black one.

The omegas wear white, while the alphas wear the black ones so that the colours blend with each other perfectly when they dance.

The other students are also taking their positions, with some of them checking their movements in the mirrors.

The previous day, their dance instructor said that he’d choose the pairs himself. He would check who fit well and and put them together based on their body alignments, visuals and chemistry.

And Taehyung hopes the instructor pairs him up with Seojoon. That way, he’ll be able to get close to the alpha and maybe start talking a little more?

Jungkook follows the omega's movements and begins to fix his own unitard before opening his mouth to reply again, “I didn't follow you. I got transferred. We just happened to meet.”

Taehyung scoffs, “Oh, really? Then what about this…this dance class? Why did you join it if you’re not following me?” He crosses his arms over his chest, gazing back at the alpha's face who’s staring at him like a lost puppy. 

Taehyung doesn't understand what exactly Jungkook wants from him, if not money. And it confuses him. A boy who told him some weird shit a few days ago is now following him just because he wants to be friends?

It doesn’t make sense to Taehyung. He can't seem to trust Jungkook.

The alpha looks down, “I’m sorry if I creeped you out that day, but trust me,” he looks up, meeting Taehyung's eyes, “I have no bad intentions. I won’t bother you with my stupid words again. Just let me be your friend, please?” He asks, doe-eyes staring at the omega, pleading. He hopes Taehyung will at least buy this.

Of course he followed Taehyung here after stalking him. Why else would he suddenly change his course and university, let alone join a ballet class?

But he can't say that to the omega, can he?

The thought of dying without his past love story being successful has tormented him a lot already. He doesn't want a repeat in this life.

If god really didn't want to give him a chance then why would he torture him with those dreams and then send Taehyung to him?

They met, even if their paths weren’t supposed to cross. And Jungkook refuses to waste this chance. He’ll work it out. He’ll try his best. He will complete his love story this time. And he’ll make Taehyung fall for him the way he’s fallen for him at first sight. He fell deep and hard. And he’s not backing off from the goal he’s set. He will make Taehyung his.

“Yeah whatever,” Taehyung clicks his tongue and looks away. He ignores Jungkook and walks to the centre of the hall room. He snaps his head towards the door upon hearing a familiar voice.

Seojoon enters the room with his omega friend Jisu, a girl Taehyung doesn't like at all.

It makes Taehyung scowl. He lets out an annoyed sigh and scoffs.

The instructor, Hoseok, appears after a few minutes, rushing to the front quickly. He claps his hands, motioning the students to take their positions.

“We have a new student here. Jungkook, come to the front,” Hoseok says.

Taehyung closes his eyes and makes an annoyed face again, tilting his head to the other side to hide his displeasure when Jungkook comes forward to stand right beside him.

“So, this is Jeon Jungkook. He’ll join our dance class from today. I hope you get along with him and guide him if needed,” the alpha instructor says to the students who nod and start greeting Jungkook.

Until today, Taehyung was the only one from their class who signed up for ballet.

The other students come from other classes. But now, Taehyung has a companion. He’s not the only one from his class anymore because there stands Jeon Jungkook beside him, smiling widely, bowing politely to everyone who’s greeting him.

Taehyung watches him through the corner of his eyes. He doesn't realize he’s staring at Jungkook more than he should until the alpha snaps his fingers in front of his face.

“You’re staring.”

“At you?” Taehyung scoffs and looks away.

Hoseok claps his hand to get everyone's attention on him, “We have exactly three months to prepare ourselves for the annual day celebration. So, I’m going to pair you all up right now.”

Taehyung keeps his fingers crossed as he prays to be paired up with Seojoon.

“Mina with Hyuna,” Hoseok starts, pointing his fingers at the girls before he motions them to stand beside each other. “Sohee and Moonjin,” his voice echoes as the students start to take their positions.

The pairing is almost done, leaving only four people. Two alphas, two omegas.

Taehyung hopes there will be a possibility of him ending up with Seojoon. He’s waited for this for so long.

And it's do-or-die for him because he definitely doesn’t want to be paired with Jungkook.

But the instructor announces the next pair, and Taehyung's jaw drops.

“Seojoon and Jisu.”

The announced pair take their positions beside each other, leaving Taehyung and Jungkook to stand in the middle alone.

“So, the final pair is Taehyung and Jungkook—”

“No,” Taehyung objects, “I don't want to be paired with him.”

Hoseok raises an eyebrow, “Thought I made it clear that I’ll be the one making the pairs?” He frowns at Taehyung.

“I know and I’m sorry, but please. Please j-just not him. Pair me up with anyone but not him. He’s new and I don't think it's a good idea to put him with me—”

Hoseok gives him a look of disapproval. “It is! He's new and that’s why he should be with you. You’re one of the best here, so you can guide him. And Seojoon will guide Jisu, as she just joined a few days ago. So, my decision is final.” 

Taehyung opens his mouth to protest but Hoseok stops him by raising his hand. “Take your positions everyone.”

Jungkook comes forward to stand right in front of the omega who’s not giving him the attention he wanted.

Taehyung widens his eyes, a soft gasp escaping his parted lips when the alpha rests his hands on either side of Taehyung's waist.

“Guide me through it,” Jungkook says, intense eyes staring down at the omega.

“I don't understand why luck is never on my side but on yours,” Taehyung huffs, extending his hand towards Jungkook and juts his chin out to signal him to take his hands, who follows.

As soon as Jungkook takes the offered hand, Taehyung stretches his body, putting all his weight on his heel while raising his other leg in the air before he stands on his toes again.

Jungkook follows him, almost succeeding, but the moment he puts his weight on his toe, he stumbles back and fails.

The omega holds Jungkook's forearm and glares, “You dumbfuck! Raise your feet slowly. How can you suddenly stand up on your toes?” He lets go of the alpha's hand. “First, watch how I move. Then follow the lead.”

Jungkook tries to ignore the rude words and focuses on the steps instead.

Taehyung's arms extend, his hands fluttering like birds in flight. His torso twists along with it, his hips swaying in a slow, seductive arc before he lifts one of his legs, tracing it over his other leg, flinging it up in the air. He moves like he’s made for ballet.

Tahyung’s moves are sensual and Jungkook finds his throat going dry watching him.

He dances like he’s feeling it. He dances like it's a part of him, and not because he has to or he’s obliged to. He dances like he doesn't care about the world. As if no one is present in the room.

As the music reaches its climax, his eyes snap open, his gaze burns with a fierce, inner intensity as they land on Jungkook's amused ones.

The other students pause their own movement and watch, as if they too, have been affected by the raw, sensual power of Taehyung's performance.

Everyone flinches when Hoseok claps his hands and walks up to Taehyung.

“I’m so proud of you, Taehyung. I knew I could trust you. You’ll be the best guide for Jungkook,” he pats the omega's back who bows his head and smiles.

The instructor pats Jungkook's shoulder gently, “I know you can do it. Just focus on the moves and try to follow. I’m sure you'll be our Taehyungie’s perfect match,” he walks away as Jungkook nods a yes.

“Did you learn anything?”

Jungkook looks back at the omega and nods hesitantly. The truth is, he learned nothing. He was simply mesmerised as Taehyung's frame arched and bended smoothly. As if he was boneless.

“Ok. Move with me, then,” Taehyung stretches out his hand and the alpha follows.

It’s tough for Jungkook to catch up with all of Taehyung’s moves but he keeps trying. The urge in him to impress the omega grows each passing second.

So, he learns. He’s not perfect. But he tries.

 

💫

 

Jungkook learns everything pretty quickly. His speed of picking up the hard ballet moves surprises everyone.

Taehyung is surprised, too. He’s never seen someone learning ballet in a span of just two weeks.

Jungkook dances like he’s made for it. And with Taehyung, he just fits.

Their bodies fit like two puzzle pieces. So perfect. And Hoseok is more than happy to see the progress.

Jungkook practices a lot. With Taehyung, of course. And it gives him a chance to stay close to the omega. He doesn't leave Taehyung's side at all.

He’s been following the omega for the past few weeks like a lost puppy who found its owner.

Taehyung also stops complaining like did in the beginning. He doesn't realize when he starts to get comfortable around the alpha, or liking his company.

Jungkook proves that he’s not a pervert, and Taehyung finally thinks things might not be the way he thought. He still wonders about how the alpha suddenly appeared and told him that he wants to be Taehyung's friend.

Taehyung hasn't accepted the alpha as his friend. Not yet. Jungkook’s first words to him still weird him out. Although the alpha never mentions it again or bothers Taehyung, it still bugs the omega.

It would be a lie to say that Taehyung isn't curious. He is. But he buries that curiosity fifty feet under the ground, pretending he doesn't care.

Taehyung doesn't hate Jungkook but he doesn't like Jungkook either. He still pretends to show his disinterest to the alpha and only talks when necessary.

And Jungkook just stares. He stares at Taehyung like he’s the only star of his universe.

Taehyung is used to being stared at. So it doesn’t affect him. He can't differentiate between them and the longing in Jungkook's eyes.

He could. Only if he paid a little attention to the alpha, he’d know the difference. 

But Taehyung is oblivious.

 

 

. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁💭⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⊹*ੈ˚˖જ⁀➴.ೃ࿔₊⊹˖‧₊˚彡

 

Jungkook smiles as he holds Taehyung's hands and pulls him closer to his chest.

Taehyung turns his body and sways his hip with the alpha. Soft giggles leave his mouth when he notices the birds chirping, making music in the background. It's already dawn.

“You should go back to your chamber, my lord.”

Jungkook rolls his eyes and shakes his head. He ignores the omega’s words. “You look so pretty when you dance,” he whispers near the omega's ear, nibbling at Taehyung's earlobe.

Taehyung hisses, nudging his elbow at Jungkook's chest. “Stop acting like a pervert!”

The alpha prince gives him a mischievous smile, “How can you talk to the prince of this kingdom like this?” He asks, eyes glaring, yet playful.

Taehyung gasps when Jungkook twirls him around and pushes him against a tree. He looks at the alpha, eyes wide and jaw open.

Jungkook leans forward to capture the omega's lips but Taehyung lifts his hand in the air and presses his palm flat against the alpha's lips to put a barrier between their lips, stopping them from touching each other.

“A-are we allowed to do this, h-here?” Taehyung's voice cracks and his gaze softens when he finds the alpha staring back at him with equal passion. “What if someone sees us?”

“I know we’re not. But it's impossible for me to stay away from those lips of yours, Tae.”

The omega looks down and nibbles on his lip. He is afraid to say it, but he knows.

He knows what's going to happen. He knows that prince Jungkook will have to marry a beautiful royal omega soon, closing his chapter in the alpha's book.

“Why am I just a mere dancer in the courtroom and not a prince?” Taehyung's lips tremble. He tries to avoid Jungkook's eyes. Too weak to look and not break.

Jungkook lifts the omega’s face, placing his index finger under his chin, and when their eyes meet, the alpha offers him a small smile, “Or maybe I shouldn’t have been a prince. I should've been a commoner or just a citizen instead. O-or maybe—” he takes a long pause and Taehyung lets him have the time before he reiterates the tough words, “we shouldn't have fallen in love at all.”

Taehyung's chest puffs up with air before he releases it, “Do you regret loving me?” he asks.

Jungkook is quick to respond. He shakes his head, “Never. I will never regret loving you. But I’ll regret not having you.” He knows how they’ll end.

Their love is forbidden. A royal can only mate another royal. Not a dancer of the royal courtroom.

But the prince still fell for the dancer. And the dancer reciprocated, surprisingly.

It started when Jungkook summoned the omega for a performance on his terrace. Alone. Only for the prince’s eyes.

Scared to reject the prince's order, Taehyung went. And he danced.

Jungkook kept asking for him until it became regular, and then he asked Taehyung to teach him dance.

Dancing with Taehyung was one thing, but touching him and rubbing his nose on his shoulder wasn’t in his plans.

Neither was tracing his lips against the omega's neck and kissing his lips. And taking Taehyung to his bed, exploring his body, worshipping him against all the odds weren’t a part of his ‘to do’ list.

It just happened. It happened, and they had no control over it. 

Taehyung closes his eyes and turns his face away from the alpha. But of course, Jungkook doesn't let him. He cups Taehyung's cheeks and presses his lips on the omega's.

Tears spill out of the omega's eyes when he closes them. They slide down his soft cheeks.

Jungkook feels the tears against the tip of his fingers while cupping the omega's face.

And he hates it. He silently prays to the moon goddess to have mercy…to let him and Taehyung be together.

But that’s not going to happen. He knows.

 

. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁💭⋆.ೃ࿔*:･⊹*ੈ˚˖જ⁀➴.ೃ࿔₊⊹˖‧₊˚彡

 

 

Jungkook sits up abruptly, huffing as he looks around at his surroundings. Sweat beads glisten on his forehead. He doesn't bother to wipe them.

He’s in his room, wearing normal clothes.

But the dream…

He’s sure it's a glimpse of his past life.

He’s in agony as he realizes why he didn't end up with Taehyung.

He doesn't like the thought. The dream clarifies everything for him, and he knows that they’ve reincarnated.

He’s born poor this time while Taehyung belongs to a rich family. As if their roles were reversed. And Taehyung. He doesn't remember anything.

But Jungkook does.

He promises himself that nothing will stop him from loving the omega. Nothing will stop him from having Taehyung in this life.

He’ll make Taehyung his. He will complete his unfinished love story.

 

💫

 

“You love wearing long earrings in your left ear while dancing, right?” Jungkook asks, looking at Taehyung who’s checking himself- no, more like, checking out Seojoon through the mirror.

Jungkook doesn't understand where the omega is looking as his focus stays on Taehyung's side profile.

Taehyung hums mindlessly, not paying much attention to whatever the alpha is saying.

“I bought one for you.”

Taehyung's movements halt before he turns his head around and fixes his gaze on the alpha. “You bought what?”

“An earring for you?” Jungkook smiles.

Taehyung doesn't know why he feels an urge to accept the earring without any complaints, but “And what makes you think that I'll take it?” he taunts.

Jungkook blinks his eyes, unable to form any words. “Just because—” he shrugs, “It will look good on you. Please take it.”

Taehyung rolls his eyes as he stands up, “You should've asked me before buying anything for me.” He goes to stand at the centre of the huge studio.

The alpha sighs and looks down at his fist that he’s been hiding behind his back till now. He narrows his eyes before they land on Taehyung's backpack. A smile appears on his face. He steals a glance at the omega before putting the earring in Taehyung's backpack and zipping like nothing happened.

He stands behind Taehyung and rests his hands on either side of the omega's waist, lifting him up in the air as if Taehyung weighs nothing, while the omega flares his hands straight, curving them as he arches his body.

And their practice begins.

When Taehyung returns home that day, he opens his backpack to spot the earring shining prettily inside it. He takes it out in his hands.

It's not expensive. Taehyung can easily guess that. But it's pretty.

However, he rolls his eyes and throws the earring on the dressing table and scoffs.

“How dare he put this shit in my bag?” Taehyung groans and plops on the bed, eyes blankly staring at the beautiful ceiling lights.

His mind wanders–what does Jungkook want from him? Is the alpha trying to woo him?

But Jungkook isn't rich. And Taehyung doesn't want to date poor people. He thinks that poor people are only after his money and not his heart. They love his money, not him. That’s what his mother told him. And he likes Seojoon because the alpha is equally rich. Which means he doesn’t need Taehyung's money. Taehyung believes that will make him love Taehyung. 

It doesn’t matter how much Jungkook assures him that he’s not after money, Taehyung knows otherwise. He knows the alpha is probably acting for now. And when he gets Taehyung, he’ll only be attracted to those bills. Taehyung knows this facade very well.

But he doesn't understand why he gets up and walks towards the mirror after twirling and tossing on the bed uncomfortably. Or why he picks up the earring again.

It’s a long beautiful earring designed with stones. He glares at it. He wants to throw it into the dustbin.

But instead, he brings it to his left ear, and puts it on. 

As if, involuntarily. He’s surprised at himself.

And then, he looks at himself in the mirror.

Jungkook was right when he said it would look pretty on Taehyung. It really does.

How did the alpha know what would look good on him?

He flicks the long chain of the earring, making it dangle. He’ll choose to ignore that he loves it.

 

💫

 

Taehyung lets out a painful cry when his ankle twists and he loses balance, hands reaching out to grab Jungkook's shoulder instinctively. The alpha holds his waist before he can fall on the floor and hurt himself more.

Everyone halts in their steps and Hoseok turns off the music, rushing towards the pair. “What happened?”

“He twisted his ankle,” Jungkook responds, bends down, hooks an arm under the omega's thigh, picking him up. “Can I take him to the infirmary?” 

Taehyung's face contorts in pain as he hides his face into his dance partner's muscled chest.

Everyone shares subtle glances, staying quiet and letting their instructor speak.

“Of course, you can. Just be careful,” Hoseok says.

And Jungkook rushes out, urgent…but extremely careful. 

The nurse does her job, applying spray on the omega's ankle. She tells him to rest, “don't put pressure on your ankle, right now.” Her gaze moves to Jungkook, and she motions him to sit beside Taehyung. “If you can, massage his feet and ankle slightly. It may help relieve the pain,” she says before walking away, leaving the two alone.

A silence follows. Awkward. Yet not uncomfortable.

Jungkook gently brings the omega's feet to rest on his own thigh, earning a surprised gasp from Taehyung.

“Jungkook, you don't need to—”

“Shush! Sit quietly. Didn't you hear what the nurse said? We have to practice again and for that, you’ll need to get back on your feet.”

Taehyung doesn't argue anymore. He lets the alpha do the work.

Jungkook's gaze drops to the omega's feet before he wraps his fingers around Taehyung's sprained ankle, applying gentle pressure as he massages it. He kneads the muscles, working to loosen the knots that had formed.

Starting at the base of the ankle, Jungkook's thumbs make slow, circular motions, gradually increasing in pressure as he works his way up. He pays special attention to the tender areas, using long, flowing strokes to ease the tension. He uses his palms to apply broad, sweeping strokes, then switches to his fingertips to focus on the smaller, more delicate areas.

Taehyung's eyes close, a soft sigh escaping his lips as Jungkook's skilled fingers work their magic. The omega's body begins to relax, his muscles releasing their tension as the massage soothes away the pain and discomfort. He feels the pain slowly going away.

There were so many people in the practice room but none seemed to be as concerned as Jungkook was. Not even Seojoon reached out to help him. While Jungkook panicked…the worry was still evident in the alpha's eyes. He gulps at his own thoughts.

‘Maybe nobody tried because Jungkook was already holding me,’ he thinks. And he doesn't want to know why Jungkook is so worried.

 

💫

 

“We’re talking more than before,” Taehyung says, watching as his best friend plays basketball all by himself in the empty court. “In the practice room, we meet often there.”

Jimin snorts, “You mean just the hi and hello?” 

“I would’ve said more than that if Jungkook wasn't there all the time.”

“Why, what did Jungkook do?”

Taehyung rolls his eyes, “He sticks to me all the time, following me everywhere like a lost puppy.”

“I’m sorry Taehyung, but don't you think you should sit down and think about your choices?” Jimin ponders.

“Why?”

“I have a feeling that Jungkook is the one for you—”

“Oh, please! Don't speak nonsense,” Taehyung clicks his tongue in annoyance.

“Heard Jungkook took care of you when you sprained your ankle? Where was your crush though?” Jimin asks.

Taehyung rolls his eyes, “Jungkook is my partner. Of course he would. We have to practice together again. I’m sure if he wasn’t there, holding me already, Seojoon hyung would definitely help,” he seems unconvincing to himself as well.

“Apologies for pointing it out but look at Seojoon. He’s never approached you that way. I bet he sees you as a junior or topmost, a friend probably? Otherwise he would have reached out to you already.” 

Taehyung hates Jimin’s logic. And that he makes sense.

“What kind of a best friend are you? Instead of supporting my love and choice, you’re discouraging me,” Taehyung huffs and glares at the ball Jimin is playing with. “Maybe, if I confess first, he’ll start seeing me in a romantic way? Maybe, if I make the first move, he’ll be impressed and consider giving us a chance?”

“Who are you trying to fool here? Me or you? At this point you’re just being delusional,” Jimin laughs and jumps a little to throw the ball in a perfect arc towards the basket. He looks back at Taehyung again, “Listen to me, and try looking at Jungkook. That boy is devoted to—”

“Never. I know why he’s after me. So no,” Taehyung replies.

“If he was after you for your money don't you think he would've started asking for money from you already?” Jimin says, pausing at a little distance from the other omega, and throws the ball towards him.

Taehyung catches the ball easily and groans, “Maybe he will after he gets the chance to date me?”

“I don't think Jungkook is like that,” Jimin walks up to Taehyung and drops his ass down beside him in the empty gallery.

“Yeah, whatever.”

And Jimin understands the discussion is over.

 

💫

 

“You live alone?” Jungkook asks.

Taehyung nods as they walk side-by-side, on the way home. Their practice just ended a while back.

Another month has passed and Taehyung finds himself getting a little close to the alpha. Platonically.

“And your parents?” Jungkook asks, his curiosity getting the best out of him.

Taehyung shrugs, “They live in their own bigass house. A mansion literally,” he answers.

“And you live alone in your penthouse?”

The omega nods again, “it's better this way. I love how quiet everything is.”

Jungkook stares at Taehyung's side profile, his eyes shining with amusement. He doesn't expect the omega to suddenly turn his head towards him and when he does, Jungkook sees a flicker of something in those beautiful brown orbs.

“What are you doing tonight?” Taehyung asks.

It still feels a little foreign to have the omega talking to him casually. “I’m free tonight as it's the weekend. Why?”

Taehyung looks away, blinking his eyes. He hesitates. “Wanna come to my p-place? We can watch some movies or….umm play video games?” He doesn't know why he offers that to Jungkook.

Inviting the alpha to his penthouse sounds very private.

And who’s Jungkook to say no when such an offer has been placed. So, he nods his head, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Of course,” he replies with anticipation.

Taehyung doesn't say anything, just tilts his head a little. He leads the way to his house.

When they enter the premises, Jungkook's jaw drops and almost touches the floor. His wide eyes wander around the living room, mouth agape.

“Beautiful,” he whispers.

Taehyung locks the door and turns to the alpha. “Yes, it is,” he replies and walks past him. “Come, follow me. Let's go to my bedroom. The video game setting is there.”

Jungkook slowly nods and follows after the omega while his doe eyes keep taking in the beautiful interiors of the house.

Taehyung motions for the alpha to sit on the bed, already crossing the room as he busies himself with switching the TV on and loading up his favorite video game.

Jungkook is still in awe. He can't believe this is Taehyung's bedroom. He bets his entire worn out apartment would fit into this room. His gaze flickers between the screen where the game is about to start, and the omega who walks back to him and climbs on the bed.

Taehyung is so pretty. No matter where Jungkook is, he always finds the omega more attractive. Prettier than everything. He doesn't realize how lost he is in Taehyung’s beauty until the latter shakes him.

“What are you thinking? Take this controller.”

The alpha lowers his gaze and notices Taehyung has his hand extended towards him. He takes the controller.

“Have you played this before?” Taehyung asks, readying his controller as well.

Jungkook affirms, “I did. Once. In one of my friends' houses.” He remembers how he won all the rounds that day after they taught him how to play, defeating all his friends.

After that day, they never invited him to play again.

“Ok, let's start.”

Taehyung giggles as he wins the first round defeating the alpha. He throws his hands in the air, showing his joy.

Jungkook looks at the omega with a soft smile, wide-eyed. The giggles sound like a sweet melody to Jungkook's ears. Of course, he let the omega win.

“Oh you’re so bad at this!” Taehyung laughs and starts to set another round.

This time Jungkook plays a little hard and turns his head to find Taehyung concentrating, tongue poking out a little.

This time, Jungkook plays with unrelenting passion, and as he glances over at Taehyung, he sees the omega fully immersed, his brow furrowed and his tongue peeking out from his lips.

Taehyung looks cute.

The alpha lets the omega win again to see him jump in happiness, squealing.

He looks back at Jungkook, and sticks his tongue out, “How does it feel to lose against me, hmm hmm?” He teases. “You wanna play another round? I mean, do you wanna lose another round?’

As much as Jungkook loves hearing Taehyung's giggles, he wants to see his whiny, pouty face, too. So, he says yes and another round starts.

The smile fades from Taehyung's face when he finds it a little difficult to defeat the alpha. He tries to appear confident but his expression falters when Jungkook leads the match. The omega can't believe it when the screen shows that he’s lost and Jungkook’s won. He doesn't turn his head towards Jungkook, too embarrassed to meet his eyes.

“L-let's play another round.” Taehyung lets out a false chuckle, “I let you win this time because you lost twice and I felt bad for you.”

Jungkook bites back a smile.

He wins the next two rounds too, leaving the omega surprised and frustrated.

“Are you still feeling bad for me? Because you keep letting me win!” Jungkook asks and almost gasps when Taehyung snaps his head towards the alpha, shooting daggers with his eyes. 

“Fuck you!” Taehyung curses.

“When?”

“Huh?”

“Nothing.”

The omega narrows his eyes and looks away, “I will win this time. You just wait and watch.”

“Sure!”

Taehyung fumes in anger as the TV screen mocks him. He can't tolerate this anymore. His bottom lip juts out in an adorable pout, melting Jungkook's heart in a second. Throwing the controller somewhere on the bed, he turns his body towards Jungkook and grabs a pillow, smacking the alpha's head with it.

“Oww!” Jungkook groans and tries to cover his face from further hits.

“You cheated. I’m sure you cheated,” Taehyung gets on his knees trying to hit the alpha's face. 

“No. I didn't. What the hell?”

The omega lets go of the pillow and grabs Jungkook's collar instead.

Jungkook's breath catches in his throat when Taehyung gets on top of him. The omega doesn't realize that he’s already sitting on Jungkook's lap.

“Don't lie to me. You can't win against me if you haven't cheated,” Taehyung glares.

Jungkook gulps.

Doesn't Taehyung notice the electrifying proximity between them? Doesn't he realize how dangerous it is?

Jungkook's pulse races as he struggles to maintain a steady breath when Taehyung's closeness threatens to overwhelm him.

Taehyung is still glaring at him, landing soft punches and curses on the alpha.

After quite a few hits, Jungkook decides to show Taehyung his place, grabs the omega's waist, and flips their positions in the blink of an eye.

Before Taehyung can react, the alpha attacks him with tickles, making him burst out into loud giggles.

“S-stop—” Taehyung says, trying to move away from Jungkook's hold but the alpha doesn't let him.

None of them realize how their bodies are pressed against each other, and how close their faces are.

Tears spill out of the omega's eyes as he wheezes nonstop, tapping his palms on the alpha's shoulder to let him know that he’s getting out of breath.

Jungkook stops, hands still holding Taehyung's waist as he hovers over the omega.

Taehyung catches his breath, eyes closed. A minute or two pass when he gradually opens his eyes and feels the breath knocked out of his lungs. He widens his eyes, realising their position.

He has his palms on either side of Jungkook's shoulder, who’s gently holding the omega by his waist. His heart skips a beat, scaring Taehyung to death.

This is too intimate. This is wrong, Taehyung thinks. But it feels right. He gulps when Jungkook's eyes drop to his parted lips. But before Jungkook can make a move or even think about leaning, Taehyung pushes him away. He quickly gets off of the bed and takes the controllers as he walks towards the TV. His back faces the alpha as he turns the TV off.

The tension in the air can be cut with a knife, the silence palpable, like a living being pulsing with the rhythm of their racing hearts. 

Taehyung doesn't turn to Jungkook and the alpha sighs, standing up.

“Taehyung, I—.”

“Leave, Jungkook. I'm tired and sleepy.”

The alpha hesitates, “But Tae—”

“Good night.” The omega says and busies himself with something so doesn’t have to look at the alpha.

Jungkook waits for a while. He wants to talk but seems like Taehyung doesn't. So he drags his feet out of the room and the house.

 

💫

 

“Both of you look at me! What's wrong with you guys?” Hoseok yells, his voice dripping with disappointment. “You were doing great just a few days ago. What happened today? Why do you keep making mistakes?” He asks the pair standing in front of him.

“Sorry, sir. I’m just a little distracted today.” Taehyung’s voice is small.

Hoseok turns his head to Jungkook, waiting for his excuse.

“I’m not feeling well today.”

“What?” Jungkook flinches when Taehyung reaches out to touch his cheeks, “What happened? Why are you suddenly feeling unwell?” He looks at the alpha, concerned. 

Jungkook stares back, surprise written all over his face. He’s sure he spotted a flicker of something unusual in the omega's orbs before they disappear, before Jungkook can relish the feeling.

The instructor clears his throat, “If you’re feeling unwell Jungkook, then you must rest. Join us when you’re fitter.”

Taehyung lets go of the alpha's cheeks quickly and rubs his palms on his unitard.

“Jungkook, go home. Don't take this dance performance lightly. We have a reputation to protect.” Hoseok pats the alpha's shoulder, “All of you will have to perform for seven minutes straight on stage, without any pause or rest. So, prepare yourself accordingly.”

Jungkook admits that neither he, nor Taehyung gave their best today.

He felt the omega's stiffness against him while dancing. And he’s sure it's because of what transpired at Taehyung's house.

“Taehyung—”

“Look, Jungkook. We need to give our best as Sir Jung said. So, let's push whatever is bothering us aside and focus on the practice.”

Jungkook agrees.

“And if you’re feeling unwell, go home. Take a rest. We’ll continue tomorrow,” Taehyung doesn't wait for the alpha's reply as he goes to change and leaves with his backpack right after.

From the next day, Taehyung acts normal again. Talking and smiling to Jungkook as if nothing happened, as if they hadn't been all over each other on the omega's bed, as if their faces weren’t close, and they didn't feel the electricity in the atmosphere around them.

Jungkook also starts to act accordingly— having the omega comfortable around him feels better than having him dwell on the heavy tension and ignoring the alpha.

 

💫

 

Taehyung storms out of the club in anger, not even listening to Jimin. He’s a little tipsy, so Jimin lets him go.

His weekend is ruined now. He ignores the fact that he’s just fuming and not sad after seeing Seojoon kiss Jisu at the club. He always thought it'd break his heart into pieces if he got rejected by Seojoon but watching him with someone else simply angered him. Nothing else.

And that infuriates him more. He knows he’s not drunk but his moves prove. Because he has no explanation as to why he finds himself in front of Jungkook's apartment, eyes teary. Or why he’s knocking.Or why he knows Jungkook’s address by heart after dropping him off once. 

Or why, when alpha doesn't open the door, he starts banging.

Jungkook rubs his sleepy eyes as he opens the door, but his drowsiness vanishes as soon as spots the omega. “Tae? What are you doing here? It's almost 2 am.” He steps back when Taehyung pushes him and enters the room, closing the door behind himself. “Why are you crying? Are you drunk—” 

His body goes still, the sentence unfinished.

Because Taehyung’s lips are on his. Kissing him. His arms around Jungkook’s torso.

Jungkook pulls back and looks at the omega's red teary eyes, he smells the alcohol in Taehyung's breath, “What are you doing, Tae?” He can't believe the omega he loves just kissed him.

“I want you to fuck me. Right now!” The words roll out of Taehyung's tongue shamelessly.

Jungkook struggles to comprehend the blurred lines between vivid dreams and reality.

Having the omega in his arms, and being kissed by him feels like nothing but a fever dream to Jungkook.

And Taehyung takes silence in a wrong way. “If you don't want to, tell me, and I’ll leave. I won't bother you—” he sighs into the kiss that Jungkook pulls him into harshly.

“Did I say that?” Jungkook asks, “but are you sure?”

Taehyung nods a yes, and Jungkook picks him up and walks into his bedroom.

Taehyung's movements are hasty as he tries to get rid of Jungkook's clothes. Jungkook lets him. He helps him remove his clothes before he dips his head down to kiss Taehyung's neck, trailing wet kisses down to his chest.

He bites and licks and nips to leave marks and Taehyung seems to enjoy that as he keeps moaning softly, begging for more.

It feels so unreal that Jungkook's hands shake as he holds the omega. He still can't believe Taehyung is under him, begging to be fucked.

He leans back to look at the marks he created on Taehyung's smooth skin. A satisfied smile appears on his face.

The alpha rummages through his drawer, retrieving a condom, and rolling it swiftly onto his arousal, the latex sheathing his straining length. He’s already leaking precum.

Not that Taehyung is any better. His slick makes it easy for the alpha to slide in.

Jungkook lets out a groan as he bottoms out, and the omega under him cries in pleasure, his hole being ripped apart.

It isn’t long before he’s moaning the alpha's name, his fingers digging into the alpha's shoulder, urging him closer. He wraps his legs tightly around Jungkook's waist, pulling him deeper inside himself with a gentle yet insistent pressure, until the alpha's impressive length is fully seated, causing a noticeable swell in Taehyung's abdomen.

“F-faster ahh—” Taehyung moans when the alpha starts to thrust deep and hard, caressing the omega's prostate.

Together they chase the bliss. Together, they feel they’re reaching the edge.

Taehyung has never had a cock like this inside him before. Jungkook is huge, and he loves the feeling. He almost comes when the alpha reaches out to grab his neck and wraps his fingers around his throat to choke him.

Taehyung's eyes roll back in pleasure, his lips curling into a soft, sensual smile as a faint thread of saliva trails from the corner of his mouth.

He looks sinful. He turns Jungkook on even more. The alpha increases his pace, each thrust more intense than the last, realising that Taehyung likes it rough with the way he's clenching around the alpha's cock whenever he chokes the omega or thrusts hard.

“You’re so hot,” Jungkook groans when Taehyung comes untouched, on the alpha's stomach. He leans down to kiss the omega's lips again.

Hitting the same spot again and again, Jungkook also shoots his load, filling up the condom with his cum.

He pulls out and removes the condom, knotting the open end before tossing it away somewhere on the floor.

Taehyung drifts off to sleep right after the alpha is done cleaning them up. He pulls the blanket over their bodies before he wraps his arms around the omega and pulls him closer to his chest, pressing a chaste kiss on Taehyung’s head.

“I don't know what made you cry, but I hope I can make you smile,” he whispers, “I still can’t believe you came to me for comfort, and you found it in our intimacy. It feels like a dream.” 

He closes his eyes and thinks.

‘I’ll believe this to be real if you’re still in my arms when we wake up in the morning.’ 

 

💫

 

Jungkook tries real hard to not be disappointed when he wakes up in an empty bed the next day.

He tries not to think too much when Taehyung doesn’t receive his calls or replies to his texts for the next two days. 

He hopes the omega is shy and needs some time. They’ll meet again on Monday and then Jungkook can talk to him again. Maybe things will change between them, move forward.

“Where’s Taehyung?” Jungkook asks one of his classmates.

Seokjin, a beta, looks up, “I think I saw him going to the library, why?” he narrows his eyes, trying to see what Jungkook is hiding behind his back. “What are you hiding?”

Jungkook smiles, shy, brings out his hand to show the beta a little box. “It's a gift I bought for him.”

“Are you courting him?”

The alpha nips his lower lip, “W-well, yes.” He scratches the back of his neck, cheeks and ears turning red.

“Oh my god. I really hope you succeed,” says the beta, patting Jungkook's back.

The alpha frowns, “What do you mean?”

“Kim Taehyung has rejected all the alphas in this campus. People assume that he already likes someone, so he keeps rejecting whoever proposes to him. So best of luck to you.” Seokjin smiles.

Jungkook gives him a tight-lipped smile in return, thanks him, and walks out of the classroom. He’s saved three months’ salary from his part-time job and has bought a watch for the omega. He hopes Taehyung will take it even though it isn’t as expensive as ones Taehyung usually wears. He hopes the omega won’t refuse the gift he bought with so much love and joy.

 

💫

 

“I don't know how I’ll face him. I'm feeling so embarrassed, Chim,” Taehyung’s face contorts in a mix of anxiety and unease, his brow furrowed in distress as he looks down at his feet.

Jimin sighs, “You know you can't hide from him forever? You’ll have to dance with him.”

“I know and I hate it. I'm feeling so nervous thinking about it, oh god—”

“Do you like him?”

“Who? Jungkook?” Taehyung asks, unaware that the alpha stands just out of sight behind the tall bookshelf, pausing after he caught his name on the omega's lips.

Jimin nods, “You went straight to him right after you saw Seojoon kissing Jisu that day. Why would you go to him for comfort if you don't have feelings for him? Why would you ask him to fuck you for that comfort?” he scoffs and takes out another book from the shelf.

“Nonsense.” Taehyung gulps before responding. It's hard for him to accept the emotions that have woken up in him, bothering him for a while now. He’s confused and scared. And that anxiety always makes him say and do stupid things. “Y-you think I’ll like that poor guy? He's nowhere near my standard.”

Jimin halts and looks up at Taehyung. He can't believe what his best friend is saying. “Tae, what—”

“He’s after me for money. I'm sure. I know people like him. And how can I like a cheap alpha? Do you think he can afford me? I only talk to him because he is my dance partner. Otherwise I'd not even spare him a glance. He thinks his cheap gifts can please me,” he fakes a scoff, “If it weren't for him, I'd have Seojoon hyung as my partner and we would be closer by now. I wanted him to be my partner all along. But Jungkook ruined it. That stupid alpha just had to snatch this chance from me.” Taehyung feels his own heart tearing apart with each word he spits. He knows he’s just fooling himself.

They hear a shuffle behind the bookshelf, and Taehyung perhaps hears it wrong, but there seems to be a sound of someone whimpering. A trembling sob. He walks up to the end of the shelf to take a look but finds the place empty.

“At this point, you very well know that you’re just lying to yourself. You don't mean any of the words you just said. You know that. But if you think you'll be happy living with your denial then keep it up,” Jimin glares at the omega and walks past him to storm out of the room, leaving Taehyung alone with his misery.

 

~

 

Jungkook harshly wipes his tears and runs out of the university after collecting his backpack, not caring about the classes and dance practice.

He can’t fathom how he forgot their class difference. How he thought he got this life to get Taehyung, and not just watch him. He’ll never have the omega, and that's his reality. Maybe they are not meant for each other. Never were.

 

💫

 

Taehyung prepares himself a lot to face Jungkook but the alpha never shows up— neither to class, nor practice.

And now when he’s finally seeing him after two days, Jungkook has changed his desk, sitting far away from the omega.

Taehyung doesn't know the reason behind the sudden change but he thinks it's better this way. The more his true feelings kick in, the more nervous he feels to go near the alpha. Now he'll just prepare himself before they meet for practice.

But that doesn't happen either.

Taehyung stands frowning, confused eyes staring at Jungkook and the girl he is holding, Jisu, while Seojoon stands beside him.

“Oh, Tae. Jungkook requested Sir Jung to swipe the partners in our pair. So, I'll dance with you and Jungkook will dance with Jisu. I hope you won't mind,” Seojoon announces and Taehyung's heart drops.

“What—”

“Come, let's practice,” Seojoon pulls Taehyung by his hand and waist, taking their positions.

And this. Taehyung has wanted this for so long. Yet, nothing feels right. He finally has what he wanted but he’s not happy. He’s not excited anymore. His woeful eyes find their way to Jungkook who's holding Jisu’s waist and smiling at her.

Jungkook hasn't spared Taehyung a single glance yet. What's the reason for this change?

The omega's heart clenches in his chest, eyes welling up with tears. It didn’t feel like this when he saw Seojoon and Jisu kissing at the club that night. Then, it was just anger. But now, when Jungkook treats him as if he’s invisible and gives all of his attention to Jisu, Taehyung feels pain coursing through every cell of his body. He feels hurt.

He wants to run to Jungkook and pull him towards himself, detaching him from the girl.

He blinks his eyes and looks back at Seojoon. The choreo is the same for every pair so Taehyung and Seojoon don't need to practice any new steps. So, when Seojoon takes his hand to spin him, he realises that Jungkook is doing the same with Jisu. It irks Taehyung. He feels it with his whole body.

He fails to dance with Seojoon as his eyes keep finding their way to Jungkook. He feels sick to his stomach when he notices Jungkook's soft stare on the omega. And he fails to notice Seojoon and Jisu sharing a smirk with each other, too.

 

💫

 

Seokjin comes to the university after missing a few days, and the first thing he sees is Jungkook sitting far away from Taehyung. He frowns and walks up to the omega.

“Yo, Tae. Did you reject Jungkook and his gift, too? Why is he suddenly sitting so far away?” The beta jokes, sitting on Taehyung's desk.

Taehyung looks at Seokjin, confused, “What gift?”

The beta blinks, “Uh- he bought something for you and told me he wanted to court you.” He replies with a shrug.

The omega’s eyes widen, “W-when did this happen?”

“Monday. He was looking for you everywhere. Did he not meet you?”

Taehyung's heart sinks. He ignores Seokjin’s question and asks, “And where did you tell him I was?”

“Um, library. You were there, so,” Seokjin's voice seems to fade as Taehyung feels fear engulfing him, suffocating him.

He doesn't need to be told anything anymore. He knows what happened.

 

💫

 

“Jungkook, open the door! I know you’re here. Don't ignore me. Please,” Taehyung bangs on Jungkook's apartment door requesting, “Please talk to me. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry,” his voice trembles, “I k-know why you’re doing this and I'm sorry for that. I didn't mean to insult you. J-just—” he sobs. He ended up here after sending a voicemail to the alpha, saying he'll come to his apartment if Jungkook doesn't reply to his calls or texts. And now, here he is.

Jungkook opens the door and looks down at the omega, displeased. He sighs and moves aside a little. Taehyung thinks that the alpha is making some space for him to enter, but no, he’s wrong.

A crushing weight settles in Taehyung's chest when Jisu steps out from behind Jungkook. She bows her head, “Nice to meet you, Taehyung,” she says and turns to Jungkook, “Goodbye, Kookie. Text me the time for tomorrow.”

Jungkook smiles at her as she leaves, before turning his eyes back to the omega, whose tear-filled gaze pierces Jungkook's heart like a dagger. And his heart almost stops.

“W-what were you doing? Why was she here?” Taehyung's chin trembles.

“We were practicing. And you should, too. The programme is in two days,” Jungkook says and holds the door to close it.

“Kook, please listen to me. I'm sorry—”

“Best of luck, Taehyung,” Jungkook says and closes the door. He rests his head on the closed door and slowly shuts his eyes. He’s hurt, but he can’t bear the sight of tears in Taehyung's eyes. He can never.

 

💫

 

“Why did you suddenly exchange partners?” Taehyung asks the moment he steps into the practice room and grabs Jungkook's biceps.

“We don't fit, Taehyung.”

“And who are you to decide that? Sir Jung put us together so that means we must fit perfectly—”

“Don't you have a crush on Seojoon? He's perfect for you. He'll match with your class and… in the dance, too. As a friend, I'm just helping you,” Jungkook ignores how his heart squeezes in his chest. He tries to walk away.

“I don't need your stupid help. Just come back to me. I want to perform with you.”

Jungkook holds Taehyung's wrist, tugging it away from his biceps, “But I don't.”

“The final program is tomorrow. P-please, Kook. Please don't dance with anyone else. I got so used to you that I can't focus on anything without you. I can't do it with Seojoon.”

“Not my problem, Taehyung. I’ve already bothered you a lot, and embarrassed myself enough. I won’t take away the chances of you getting closer to your crush,” Jungkook starts walking towards his new partner.

“If you really—” Taehyung gulps. His lips quiver as he mumbles, “if you really love me kook, then you'll perform with me,” his voice seems to pause the alpha, so Taehyung continues, “And, if you don't, then I won’t perform at all.”

But then, Jungkook resumes his steps, and Taehyung takes a few steps back before he rushes out of the practice room, tears sliding down his cheeks, as he ignores the calls from the instructor and Seojoon.

 

*

 

Behind the curtains on stage, a line of dancers stands in pairs, their bodies tense with anticipation. The air is thick with nervous energy, each performer lost in their own pre-show jitters, wearing beautiful black and white unitards.

Taehyung stands at the very end of the line, alone. He watches Seojoon standing with Jisu and smiles. He had requested Seojoon to dance with Jisu the other day because he’s not going to dance with him. And he won’t let Jisu dance with Jungkook either.

But Jungkook isn’t here. He probably won’t come because Jisu isn’t dancing with him, and maybe he doesn't want to dance with Taehyung either?

Taehyung is dressed up like a pretty doll. He is wearing the earring Jungkook gifted him. He's the only one who's standing without a partner. 

He feels like a fool as he watches everyone talking and practicing with their partners while he stands there, hugging himself. 

His eyes burn with tears, lips quivering and nose flaring as Hoseok tells them to take the stage one by one and take their positions before the curtain rolls up.

Standing alone near the wings, he curls his fingers into tight fists, watching over the dancers in their positions. He waits for a little more.

When nothing changes, he doesn't bother to wipe his tears and is about to turn on his heels but someone grabs his wrist, dragging him to the stage. 

Shock waves wreck Taehyung as he finds themselves standing at the very front of the stage.

Because the person holding him is Jungkook.

He doesn't get the time to process anything as the red curtains open and the music starts playing.

Everyone starts moving with the rhythm and so do Taehyung and Jungkook, muscle memory coming into play.

Jungkook hooks an arm under Taehyung's leg, lifting him up in the air swiftly, spinning him. They look majestic. Their moves are majestic.

They dance together, their expressions opposite—Jungkook’s unreadable, Taehyung in tears. He tries not to let his expression falter but every time his eyes land on the alpha, the urge in him to hug Jungkook and kiss him grows.

So many times Jungkook has pulled Taehyung close to his chest, held his hand and twirled him, lifted him and danced with him in the perfect rhythm.

With every moment of the seven-minute performance, the emotions within their hearts collide, breaking away at their resolve bit by bit. 

Taehyung matches his steps with Jungkook, before wrapping a leg around the alpha's waist and a hand around his neck, as Jungkook holds his waist with one hand, bodies pressed against each other. Their free hands lay out to the opposite sides as their routine comes to an end, and the music fades away.

The audience breaks into loud cheers, clapping their hands and complimenting the dancers, impressed by the breathtaking performance.

All of the dancers hold their positions, looking back at the audience with smiles except Taehyung and Jungkook.

They have their eyes only on each other, as if they cannot have enough of each other’s beauty.

“You look mesmerising,” Jungkook can’t hold himself back anymore, “you look like an angel on earth,” he whispers against the omega's lips, tears pooling up in his eyes.

They don't move even when the curtain starts unrolling.

“What was I to you in your previous life?” Taehyung asks instead, voice barely above a whisper.

Jungkook doesn't reply, eyes brimming with silent tears.

“Tell me, Kook. What was I—”

“An incomplete love story.”

“Then, let's complete it this time,” Taehyung cups the alpha's face, wiping his tears even as his own face is soaked. “Let’s turn the seven minutes of your memory into seven lives of us being together,” he finishes, pressing his lips against Jungkook's, pulling him into a kiss filled with nothing but love, desire and longing.

Their love story begins.

And the curtain falls.

 

Notes:

Thank you for reading. ♡