JoonsLftTiddie

You sigh as you look out the windows of the bar, wincing as the heavy rain obscures your view of the night. 

“Damn it…” You sigh, wiping down the bar and putting away the last of the glasses.  You’d sent your other bartender home for the evening early and now it was just you closing things down.

The shitty weather had sent most of your regulars home early and by the time the sun was setting, the bar was deserted.

Instead of letting up, the heavy downpour just peppers the roof of the small bar, signalling that it would be smarter to just hang out and wait it out for the evening.

Shaking your head, you wipe your hands on a clean bar rag, then walk from behind the bar towards the door to lock it.

It was just your luck that at that moment, a rain drenched figure burst inside, setting off the chime above the door and startling you.

“We’re closed-” You call out to the sopping wet man yanking the door shut behind him.

Wait, you knew that profile-

“Namjoon?” You ask in disbelief, cursing your luck.  

He turns towards you, his hair plastered to his head as he wipes his face.  

“Fuck…” He mutters, shaking the rain from his hair as he pushes it back.

“Goddamn it, Joon! I just fucking mopped-” 

He looks down at the puddle growing under him before giving you a sheepish smile.

“Sorry-just…fuck, just let me stay til this lets up.” He pleads with you, glancing back out as a flash of lightning streaks across the sky a moment before thunder shakes the building.

You let out a frustrated noise, throwing up your hands before retreating behind the bar to grab some of the bar rags.

“Don’t go trekking your mess all over, I just finished cleaning up. The last thing I need to be doing is following your big clumsy ass around to redo all my work.” You snap out.

“Great customer service skills you have there.” He retorts, which only causes you to get more irritated.

You can’t help but grin as you throw the dry towels at his face as you walk by to lock the door and he fumbles trying to catch them.

“Still an asshole, I see.” 

What are the chances that he’s stuck with me here in this stupid ass storm?

You steal a glance back out the door before turning back to him, watching as he picks up the towels and mops his face and hair with one.  

Even more irritating is how this man can look so fucking sexy even after coming in from a rain storm.

You shake yourself from that kind of thought and march back over to the bar, trying to keep your eyes off of him.

“Just…don’t touch anything, don’t do anything and once this lets up, you leave. Got it?” You demand, earning you a sigh from him.

Of course, he completely ignores you, walking over and seating himself at the bar, giving you a smirk that has your blood boiling in more ways than one.  

Fucking dimples…

“What did I just say?” You can’t help but bite out.

He just leans over and rests his elbow on the bar, resting his chin in his palm as he studies you.

“Still as feisty as ever, aren’t you?” He says softly with a look that implies he’s loving every moment of this.

You just roll your eyes, turning around to straighten some bottles to keep yourself busy.  

“You know, you could offer me a drink, you’re not being very friendly…” He taunts.

“You’re not a customer, Namjoon. Don’t get too comfortable, it won’t be long before this storm tires itself out and-”

With your back to him, you hadn’t noticed that he’d gotten up and rounded the bar until he’s pressing his chest against you.

You tense as his damp clothes seep into your own, his arms slipping around your waist as he leans in to nuzzle your neck.

“Namjoon-what the fuck are you doing? You’re getting me all wet-!”

His breath tickles your skin as he chuckles and his hands slip from your waist down your hips.

“Am I? Getting you all wet?” He whispers, causing you to turn around in shock, pushing him back.

No fucking way you are going to tell him he’s doing just that and oh does the smile on his face piss you off.

“You’re still such a prick, Joon, doing shit to rile me up.” 

He takes a step towards you again, his eyes taking you in.

“You used to love it when I riled you up."

The bottles clink as you take a step back, running into the shelves.  

“Yeah, used to. Before. Long time ago.” You snap at him, trying to deny that his hungry gaze is making you feel things you shouldn’t be.

You are plenty used to the male gaze, working in a bar, and you easily deflect any advances aimed your way.

But Kim Namjoon is another creature entirely; he always has been when it comes to you.

Despite the sex crazed whirlwind of what could be called your past relationship, things hadn’t ended well and you’d never gotten along since.

Yet here he was, looking at you with that same predatory gaze, making you want to simultaneously slap him and tear his clothing off.

All of this spirals through your head as he closes the distance and grabs the back of your neck, yanking your mouth to his.

Anger and lust rise up like bile within you, and you shove him back once again, the crack of your hand connecting with his cheek registering before the sting on your palm.

Silence fills the void between you as you stare at him, your chest heaving as you try to catch your breath.  

Yet instead of rage or hurt in his eyes, you only see desire and before you can stop yourself, you’re the one crushing your lips to his.

“Fuck-” He growls against your mouth, his tongue plunging in to seek yours out as you grasp a handful of his still damp hair and yank it.

His hands grab your ass to yank your body against his, grinding his obvious erection against your pelvis.

The fuck am I even doing? Echoes in your mind, but you just push it away as his lips leave yours to pepper wet, open mouthed kisses along your jaw and down your neck.  

“Used to, hm?” He breathes against your neck, one of his hands dropping to slip between your thighs and up your skirt.

A gasp escapes your lips, despite knowing that your encounter was heading this way.

“Kim Namjoon!” You try to protest, but you’re dismayed to hear the desperate whine behind your words.

He doesn’t miss it either and you can feel his lips curling into a smirk against your throat as his fingers dance along the edge of your panties.

“Mmm, yes baby?” He whispers as he wets your pulse with his tongue, following it up with a harsh suck that you just know is going to leave a mark.

He always was one for leaving behind his reminders-

Your hand drops to try to push his hand away from your crotch but he just catches your wrist and pulls it behind your back before pushing your panties aside.

“Joon-” You protest, or at least you think you do; the way his agile fingers plunge through your folds and circle your clit blanks your mind.

“Baby…” He groans, the hiss of pleasure he breathes against your neck before biting down gently has you seeing stars.

You hate how he knows exactly how to touch you, despise how he knows very well that if you wanted him to stop, he would.

The ragged whimper that comes from your throat only urges him on as he pushes one of his fingers into you, his thumb pressing firmly against your sensitive nub.

The only consolation is the way his groans are deepening, his hot breath against your neck coming in quick puffs as he seems to be losing control as quickly as you are.

Before you can manage to formulate another thought, he’s withdrawing his hand abruptly to spin you around and bend you over the bar.

“Fuck, I missed your ass, baby-” He rasps out as he yanks your skirt up, using one of his palms to hold you down to admire you for a moment.

You reach out to grab the edge of the bar in front of you, clinging onto it as the sound of him unbuckling his belt and freeing himself from his pants mixes with the harsh ragged breathing from both of you.

You fully expect him to just thrust into you, but you’re shocked when he suddenly drops to his knees behind you and takes two handfuls of your ass.

“NAMJOON!” You cry out as his tongue plunges into you twice before he drags it up from your clit to your ass, then back down again.

Your knuckles turn white from the grip you have on the bar as he buries his nose into you and all but growls into your cunt.

His hands knead your ass as he spreads you open, using his thumbs to pull your lips apart as he feasts on you. 

“I fucking hate-how good your tongue is-” You cry out as your thighs tremble, and he laughs against your cunt even as said tongue continues to curl and flick against you expertly.

Before you can utter another word he starts sucking harshly on your clit, causing you to jerk back against him and let out a desperate cry.

His teeth nip gently and pull at it, then he pulls his hand back and brings it down on your ass before giving another torturous suck.

If your eyes were open, you know you’d be seeing stars, your climax barreling down on you as he pushes a thumb into you.

“OH FUCK!” You scream as you come, and before you can even register what’s happening, he’s standing and pushing the tip of his cock into your pulsing entrance.

His hand slips up your spine gently as he holds you down, a rough groan escaping him as he bottoms out inside of you.

You’ve yet to even recover from your climax before he pulls his hips back only to thrust back into you, holding himself deep inside of you before repeating the motion.

The way your cunt clenches around him causes him to choke out a moan, and the hand on your spine slips up to grab your shoulder, pulling you back onto him as he starts pounding into you.

“Oh fuck, baby, tell me you missed this; tell me how much you missed me fucking you-” He demands, the hand on your shoulder moving to your throat to pull you up against him, his other hand dropping between your legs to tease at your clit.

The wet noises of your bodies colliding erode the tentative hold you have on your sanity, and you struggle to form words.

A small part of you wants to protest yet you can’t deny that the one thing you’ve both always known is how wild this man drives you.

“Fuck…you…” You stammer out, but he just pulls you against his chest tighter, turning your head to press his lips to your ear as his thumb caresses your pulse.

“Say it…say it, baby…you fucking love my dick buried deep in your sweet, tight little pussy…” He whispers harshly, his hips never losing their rhythm.

His words just heighten the intense pleasure, his deep, rough moans driving you mad as his fingers pinch and tug at your overstimulated clit.

“F-fuck, Joon…oh fuck yes, I fucking-love it-” You stutter, each thrust causing you to gasp as your walls start spasming around him.

He suddenly curses and slaps your clit harshly, then rubs harshly against it as he growls out, “Say it, what do you love? Say it, I’m so fucking close, baby-” 

“I love when you fuck me! Joon, I’m gonna come! Oh fuck, JOON-” You scream, bucking back onto him as you finally let go and clamp around him.

You can’t even process the words and curses leaving his mouth as your vision goes white, your orgasm slamming into you like a freight train.

Long, desperate moans echo in your ear as he coaxes you through your climax before he gasps and cries out, pulling out of you suddenly and bending you back over the bar.

His hot cum spurts all over your ass and back as he jerks himself off, each raspy cry and exclamation punctuating another surge of sticky mess on your skin.  

Your chest heaves as you try to catch your breath, slowly coming back to your senses as he rubs the head of his dick through the mess that’s now dripping down your cheeks.

“Fuck…” He gasps out as he looks down at you.

You turn your head to look up at him, unable to stop yourself from admiring those goddamned dimples and the satiated look on his face.

“Missed how sexy my cum looks on your skin, baby…” He grins, biting his lip as he appreciates your sticky backside.

“Asshole.” You mutter, but you can’t help the stupid grin that accompanies it. 

“Hold still…” He hums, stepping away for a moment to grab a clean bar towel to gently clean you up.

“Shame…I should have taken a picture-” 

You finally stand, grabbing the now soiled towel from him and tugging your skirt back down.

“Kim Namjoon, I swear-” You object loudly, but you’re cut off as he crushes his lips to yours, grasping the back of your neck, his arm slipping around your waist to hold you close.

“Mmm..” He hums against your mouth, smiling as your protests die down.

Moments pass before you finally break the kiss, pushing him back to shake your head at him and sigh.

“You’re such a pain, Joon. It’s just my luck that you got stuck here during a storm.” You huff out, but he just smiles as you lick your lips, still tasting him.

He finally pulls his boxers and pants back up, dimples peeking out as he looks up at you.

“Oh baby, it’s not a coincidence…you know I can’t stay away from you for long.” He leans back against the bar beside you, tugging you into his arms as he tips his head back to look at you.

You slap his chest, irritated but somewhere deep down, you’re delighted.

“Stalker.” You accuse him, narrowing your eyes.

He merely grins, planting a kiss on your lips.

“The storm stopped.” You announce, looking out the window, trying to distract yourself from him.

“So…your place or mine?” He grins, nuzzling into your neck.

“Neither!” You protest, but he just nips your shoulder in response.

“Okay, then I’ll just take you to the shower here and fuck you til you can’t stand-”

“KIM NAMJOON!”

“Oh I love how you say my name, baby…”

Much as your pride hurts to admit, you just can’t help yourself with this man.

A week had passed since the incident Akira faced. She was able to wake without much of a blurry vision, though it was still difficult to see. Half the time, she couldn’t make out who was in front of her; the only people she could recognize was Jungkook, the raised skin from his tattoos was a dead giveaway, as well as Yoongi, from the scar on his face. The bruising to her body was slowly healing. Both her ankle and wrist were bandaged due to a sprain. The swelling in both eyes had gone down some, but not much, which still impaired her vision. The doctor was able to fix her nose, also still bandaged and the cuts were still held together by surgical glue and stitches for some.

But the worst was her breathing. Three broken ribs meant tightly wound bandages around her torso. It proved to be difficult when her throat was still damaged from being choked. The nasty bruise around her throat was evident that her larynx still hadn’t healed fully, “She’s still wheezing, she should be talking by now, it’s been a week!”

The doctor sighed, “Mr. Min, I assure you that this is normal. Her throat is still badly bruised, it’s going to take time for her to speak.” Yoongi, all with the rest of Bangtan, turned towards Akira as the doctor walked closer. Every time he did, she flinched. She knew logically, he wasn’t a threat, but mentally, she wasn’t there yet. Akira still couldn’t see and she didn’t have heightened senses like her male counterparts. Understandably, she was jumpy.

“Shh, hey, hey, I’m right here, you’re ok.” Yoongi calmed Akira as her hoarse whimpers grew louder. He grabbed her hand and held it to his face, “It’s Yoongi. Yoongi.” He whispered back. Her fingers trailed down his scar and her heart rate slowly dropped to normal. Hand falling limp as Yoongi grabbed it once more and held it. A few of the men looked away, hurt by the damage that was done, while others just simply walked out the room, it being too much to bear.

“Akira, I need to see how far along your throat’s healing. Can you open your mouth for me?” The doctor asked patiently. Though she hesitated, Akira did as he asked. “Yeah, still some swelling. The warm fluids has reduced it tremendously though, just keep drinking warm to room temperature drinks, nothing with sugar in it. Are you able to try and speak today, Ms. Batiste?” Akira winced, shaking her head ‘no’.

“Her name is Kim. It’s Akira Kim now.” Namjoon spoke with an authoritative coldness that edged out. He sat on the window seal very still and quiet, as if his mind was racing with millions of possibilities to detach Akira from the Batiste name. He never held such hate in his heart before this. Every day he struggled to hold onto what little was left of his humanity. Akira was the only thing keeping him together.

“Apologies. Ms. Kim, we’ll see about talking in a couple of days or so, when the swelling has gone down.” After the doctor left, Yoongi remained by Akira’s side. He kissed her hand and whispered how everything was going to be ok. “Where’d the pups go?” Yoongi asked, referring to Jimin, Taehyung and Jungkook.

“Hobi took them outside, they were still too upset. Their scent was starting to sour.” Jin sighed, sitting down in a chair in the far corner of the room. Akira turned her head to his voice, seeing a blurry figure sitting near the corner. Jin smiled weakly, “I’m here, sweetheart. We’re all here.” They sadly watched as tears streamed down her face. The pain of their mate left their wolves in agony. Over the next few days, Akira eventually started to get better. She could sit up without being in pain. Her sight was getting better, still blurry but only slightly. Thankfully, there was no brain damage from the amount of head trauma she received so her cognitive abilities were still intact.

“H-Home?” Her voice left in a whisper as it was still bruised and swollen and hoarse. The doctor, feeling that she would be well taken care of, released her to go home, but she had no clue where that would be.

“Yes baby, you’re going home with us from now on.” Namjoon replied. Akira sat on the hospital bed, just as confused as before. “We feel that you’re safer with us. Rules and ceremonies be damned, you’re coming home with us.” Akira looked down at her hands, a soft sigh escaped her lips. The men all noticed that Akira didn’t seem all that excited. Yet, they did take into account that she almost nearly died at the hands of her father and eldest brother, so her solemn spirit was expected. After helping her into a wheelchair, Namjoon exited the hospital room. Outside the room, Jin stood, waiting. Everyone was at home, moving Akira’s things and getting her room ready. “The pups are excited to have you home with us. I’ll make sure that they leave you alone to rest though, they can get a little rowdy.” Jin joked.

“P-Pup?” Akira stuttered softly, raising a hand to point at herself. Jin smiled,

“Yes, I guess since technically, you are the youngest, you’d be a pup too.” Akira could barely speak in full sentences at the moment. The physical trauma left by her father brought on psychological ones as well. After discharging her from the hospital, Namjoon waited with her outside while Jin brought the car around,

“I know everything is a lot right now…but I promise, no one is ever going to hurt you again, Akira.” Akira made out Namjoon’s blurry face. She reached out to touch it, making him lay his cheek in the palm of her hand. She was sad she could no longer make out his face, no matter how much she blinked.

“Joon…” Akira sounded winded and out of breath. Namjoon held onto her hand, moving forward to kiss her gently on the forehead,

“Yeah baby, it’s Joon.” If he didn’t know better, Namjoon would’ve thought he saw a hint of a smile on Akira’s face. The car pulled up just as Namjoon stood to his full height. Jin hopped out and opened the door, then helped Namjoon get Akira inside. “I’ll sit in the back with her.” Jin nodded, watching Namjoon climb in the back seat. Throughout the drive, Akira had dozed off. The medication they gave made her drowsy. Namjoon sighed a sigh of relief as Akira dropped her head on his shoulder, “This is killing me. I’m supposed to be a leader and yet the one thing I couldn’t do was protect her. I should’ve listened to everyone and brought her home sooner.”

“She’s not going to see it that way. Right now, she’s going to see you as her Alpha, as her protector. It’s you that she trusts more than ever right now. Do not let this guilt consume you, Joon-ah. You did nothing wrong.” Jin assured him. Namjoon just stared down at Akira, who fell asleep on his shoulder. The light wheeze of her breath a concern of his. Throughout the ride, neither felt as though they could relax until you were home with them. When the streets turned into winding forest back roads the deeper they went, it wasn’t far off until they reached their large two story home. The grey washed brick contrasted beautifully with the black matte exterior. Stone driveway paths lead to the two door garage and large oak door; while others lead to a tiny lake pond out front. Large windows let out warm lighting as the glow from inside made it homey.

The exterior at the back of the house was no different, with steps leading down to large land with miles of green and a large pavilion that held guests whenever family and friends visited. The patio area was decked out with black and cream pillows and chairs and sheet curtains to keep bugs away. Pulling up to the driveway, Taehyung and Hoseok watched wearily as Taehyung paced back and forth. Namjoon moved Akira off his shoulder as Jin came to a stop in front of the steps. Taehyung quickly met Namjoon at the car door, opening it in such a hurry that Namjoon had to shush him, “She’s sleeping. They have her heavily medicated.” Taehyung nodded, licking his lips as he apologized.

“Where is everyone else?” Jin questioned just as Namjoon lifted Akira gently into his arms.

“Yoongi has Jimin and Jungkook making lunch for everyone. Tae and I just finished getting Akira’s room ready.” Hoseok stared fondly at Akira, wishing she was awake to greet them. Whatever drugs they gave her, Akira was completely knocked out. She didn’t feel Namjoon pick her up. She didn’t feel him ascending the large staircase with her in his arms. She didn’t even feel when he tucked her into bed and kissed her on the forehead. But the moment she felt Namjoon slipping away, she grabbed his sleeve immediately, “Nnoooo…Joon..”. Like any alpha, Namjoon could not ignore the cries of his mate. He sat at the edge of her bed, grabbing hold of the hand that reached for him, “Guess I’m staying here.”

“Do you want us to bring up your food? I think she’ll be able to eat the soup Jimin’s making.” Taehyung asked. Without tearing his eyes from her, Namjoon nodded lightly. He brought Akira’s hand to his lips and kissed each knuckle. They all stared quietly, helplessly as she slept. Hoseok sighed, feeling tired all of a sudden. He sat at the foot of the bed, looking troubled, “We have to make this legal, Joon-ah. We never did the ceremony, her father or grandmother has the legal standing to take her back. She’s not ours until she’s completely ours.”

During a crossing ceremony, once an alpha claims their mate, the mate crosses out the name of their familial pack and takes on their own. It is essentially a wedding of sorts. Usually done in front of the families, the council, and friends. The head of the familial pack and the head of the mate’s pack sign their names as well, sealing the bond completely. Unfortunately, due to circumstances, that hasn’t happened for Bangtan yet.

“I know that. She just needs time to heal. Please Hobi-hyung, can’t it wait?” Namjoon begged.

Hoseok sighed, “It can, but not for long. We need to do this right. She needs to be able to receive everything in case one of us—.”

“Dies?” Taehyung questioned softly, “Isn’t it a little early for that, hyung?” Taehyung frowned.

“With the way the rebels are reaching across the states, we might not be afforded time. She needs to be well taken care of if something happens.” While the pack loved Hoseok’s logical nature, the timing felt wrong. “Other than that, we have more pressing concerns. How are we gonna take care of her?”

Taehyung stared, confused,“What do you mean?”

“I mean how are we…gonna bathe her.” Hoseok stared awkwardly at the comforter set as the room grew silent. Awkwardness flowed through the room. Jin coughed,

“I think she can bathe herself, it’s the undressing part we’ll have to deal with. We shouldn’t make this awkward for her, it’s perfectly normal to need help.”

“Well count me out.” Namjoon shook his head, a heavy sigh escaping his lips, “My wolf barely contained himself when we made out, it’s not gonna survive seeing her naked.”

“Hey!” Jin scolded, “Honestly, Joon-ah.” Jin tisked, shaking his head.

“What?! I’m being honest—do you not see how gorgeous she is?! I’m surprised it didn’t come out the first day!” Namjoon whispered harshly, checking back at Akira to make sure she was asleep still. “You didn’t smell how good she smelled hyung. I almost couldn’t control my wolf, that hasn’t happened in years.”

“Maybe our betas should stick to helping her, then.” Taehyung coughed, awkwardly scratching the side of his neck.

“Normally our betas aren’t affected but Akira is different.” Jin confessed, “Even Jimin said he felt pulled to her. Normally, us betas wouldn’t feel magnetic energy but again, Akira is different, and I have no clue why.”

“You think it has something to do with her grandmother being a Divine?” Hoseok pondered.

Jin sighed, “That, I’m not sure of.”

— — —

The following days, everyone took shifts trying to have Akira adjust while in recovery. Bathing and showering she could manage on her own until it got to her hair. Trying to wash it proved difficult when raising her arms; the tightness from her injuries nearly made her pass out from the ache. The guys didn’t mind messing up a few towels and clothes if it meant stepping into the walk in shower to help her. Jimin volunteered, having watched and studied multiple videos on her hair type. “I didn’t realize your hair was longer than this, love.” Jimin smiled, noticing her coils elongate even further past tailbone length.

“I never…cut..my hair..” Though her breathing was still shallow and at times difficult, Akira was able to start talking again, albeit a whisper. It was difficult for Akira to raise her voice; the soreness was raw at the base of her throat. Jimin curled his fingers at the root, massaging her head gently. Akira closed her eyes, sighing softly. Jimin, amongst all of them, was more than happy to try and make Akira as comfortable and as safe as possible. Though he didn’t expect to see so much of her exposed body so soon, seeing as how they never had their date yet, Jimin tried with all his might to not be tempted. He loved looking at her cocoa melanated skin. Glistening under the few water drops as the steam from the shower engulfed them. Her hair covered the small of her back, barely teased by the now soaking wet body towel. Her neck looked inviting, just waiting to be bitten.

He’s a Beta, he’s not supposed to stir up these rabid emotions his wolf was causing. They’re supposed to be neutral—exactly what was Akira doing to his pack?

‘Omega smells so good. I need to know if she tastes the same.’

“Cool it.” Jimin growled, rinsing out the shampoo from Akira’s hair.

Akira turned slightly, “Hm?” A confused expression on her face. Jimin nearly moaned at the look she gave him; her innocent eyes staring up at him while hands held up a wet towel that did little to cover her chest.

He took a deep breath, her sweet, brown sugar chocolate scent deepened due to the shower, “Nothing, just my wolf causing trouble.” Jimin chuckled.

“Mm.” Akira turned back around, back straightened. Jimin continued washing her hair until it felt as soft as the sweater he gifted her. When he was done, he turned off the water and left to get them both new towels. Being a gentleman, he looked away when he held a towel up to Akira, making sure she was covered before bringing her to the vanity sink, where her hair products were.

“I’m afraid I’m not good at braiding, love.” Jimin tutted, still trying to master how to care for her, yet not quite there yet. Though she wasn’t looking at him, a habit she seems to have formed with all the guys lately, she did give him a small, light smile. Akira loved that he was at least trying.

“A ponytail…is fine…for now.” She replied breathlessly.

Jimin made sure to detangle and put in the right products before placing her hair in a ponytail. He then left her to dry off and get ready for an afternoon of lounging around; her clothes folded neatly on the counter as she got her unscented shea butter and lotion to put on before layering it with some cocoa scented body oil. The soft oversized sweater Jimin had gifted her months ago—so pink and plush like cotton candy—laid next to a pair of rose pink silk shorts. After finding a way to get dressed, Akira slowly stood up and walked to the bathroom door. Jimin was throwing the blanket Taehyung made for her onto the bed when he heard the crack of the bathroom door. His soft smile reassured her, but still, she needed help getting to the bed as her vision still continued to be blurry. She could make out the outlines of his face, but slowly, it would take a while for her full vision to come back to her.

Jimin took quick strides to get to her, holding his arm out to her, “Where do you want to sit, the bed or the couch?”

“Bed..please..” Akira murmured softly. The spacious room was probably bigger than anything she’s ever had. The large suite opened up to a cream colored room with plush beige carpeting. A black stone fireplace sat offset to the large four poster canopy bed with mountains of pillows. Some of Akira’s things had been placed away while a few things remained in her large walk-in closet. The closet led to her massive bedroom where black stone heated flooring covered the floor, matching the shower room where a large soaking tub sat on one end and a shower bench with rainfall shower heads hung on the other. On the other side of the room sat two seating areas, one underneath a large windowsill; two chairs and an end table. The other seating area she had, separated by two steps leading into a living room area. The wide L-shaped cream colored couch still allowed room for a small coffee table, an entertainment area where her large television sat, and matching chair to the couch.

To Akira, it felt like a mini apartment, but to the guys, it was her private den. A place where their omega could relax in peace and not be disturbed. They each wanted Akira to feel safe in their home, away from anything or anyone they could harm her.

But Jimin, like the rest of his pack, noticed a dimness in her eyes. The sweet, gentle woman they had grown to love had become listless and nervous. She hardly smiled anymore. She barely comes out of her room since her meals are brought to her. And any time she is out of her room, she’s holding onto one of them for dear life. Fear. Fear is what has Akira shaking every day and night. Fear is what has her looking over her shoulders, head on a constant swivel. It was the fear of her family that had her crying out every night, as if reliving the same moment over and over. No one knew how to comfort her. But no one gave up, either.

“No walks today love? How about some tv?” Akira nodded as Jimin pulled back the covers, allowing her to get into bed. He then sat beside her, grabbing the remote to turn on something for her to listen to. It didn’t matter what was on, Akira would just lay her head on Jimin’s shoulder and fall asleep anyway. “Tired already? We haven’t even started yet. Jimin giggled.

“Always…t-tired…now.” Akira muttered, feeling how drowsy the pain meds she took early made her feel. Jimin bit his lip, worried about her state, ‘Hyung? I’m worried about Akira, she doesn’t look so good.’

Within minutes, feet raced up the stairs and started towards Akira’s room. The door cracked open, as to not startle her. Jimin looked up; Jin, Hoseok and Taehyung walked in with Yoongi, Jungkook, and Namjoon unfortunately stuck at work, both crowding their mind-link with questions. Jimin assured them that medication was the issue, “I think her medicine is what’s making her act this way. She can barely keep her eyes open or sit up.”

Jin sat in front of Akira, knowing he broke the rule of being invited to her nest, but it was urgent, “Hey there tiny lady, can you open your eyes for me?” Though she struggled, Akira managed to open her eyes long enough to see Jin smile. “There’s our pretty girl. How about you rest and we figure out what to do about your meds, ok?”

“Yes…Jinnie…” Akira sighed, closing her eyes once again as she laid down fully. Jimin tucked her in, softly pushing away loose hairs from her face. He looked on the verge of tears,

“These pills..they’re sucking the life out of her, Jin.” Jimin whimpered.

“It’s not just the pills, her depression has made itself back into her mind. Everything she endured, it’s beginning to show and we just have to navigate through that. But for now, I think weaning her off her meds or lessening the amount might help.” They all stared helplessly at Akira’s sleeping figure once again. Taehyung clasped Jimin’s shoulder as tears welled in his eyes. Hoseok stood by the door, watching for any changes in her breathing or even the slightest sign of discomfort. Everything, sadly, was a waiting game.

— — —

“Akira is depressed and instead of helping her through it, we’re down here bickering on what not to do.”

Ever the voice of reason, Jin calmed all tempers in the living room of their home that chilly Friday afternoon. It had been three weeks since Akira officially moved in with them, and although there had been improvement in speech and a little of her eyesight, and physical activity, her state of mind had not. There were days where Akira wouldn’t leave her bed. Days where tears fell endlessly down her face and everything that reminded her of her family seeped into the dark corners of her mind. The hurt she felt from being severely wounded by her father and betrayal from her sister. Her grandmother and mother called, but she refused to answer the phone. She wasn’t ready yet. Akira knew, deep down, she wasn’t ready to deal with the fallout of everything.

In the living room, tempers flared on how to best help Akira cope, but Jin, being older and the pack Beta, had the final say, “We’re not going to push her into feeling better, that would just make her more anxious. We have to ease her into it. She’s only ever been with family, on top of that, all she’s ever known is abuse. This is the biggest adjustment she’s ever had to face, and all at once, it is not surprising that she’s feeling how she feels.”

“So then what do we do, hyung?” Jungkook pleaded, “Because seeing her like this is killing me.” He frowned, dropping his face into his hands. Jimin rubbed the overgrown puppy’s back, trying to comfort him.

“This is new for you, not being the baby pup in the pack anymore, it’s new for all of us. And I know now your instinct is to protect her.” Jin ruffled his hair soothingly, “But we have to move at her pace. We have to ease her into feeling better because if we push, we’ll push her away. She’s fragile. Right now, it’s best to let her come to us.”

As if on cue, ears perked and heads shot upwards towards the staircase at the sound of movement. The door to Akira’s room cracked open; tiny squeaks of the hinges and soft patter of socked feet made their way to the hallway. She was searching for one of them. Hoseok, being the closest to the stairs, called out, “Did you need something, princess?”

“I wanna come downstairs.” Akira replied meekly. Dashing towards the top of the stairs, Hoseok held out his hands for her. Akira grabbed them, looping her arm through his as he helped her down. Soft greetings of ‘love’ and ‘beautiful’ and ‘sweetheart’ tickled Akira’s ears as she moved closer to the couch. Jungkook and Jimin made space for her, seating her in the middle between them. Today she was comfy, once again sporting the cotton candy colored swear and grey sweatpants. She decided that sulking in her room for the day would be too much for her.

“Is there something you needed, sweetheart?” Yoongi quietly asked, being ever so attentive.

“I got tired of being in bed all day. I realized that I’ve done nothing but sulk since I’ve gotten here, I’ve been a terrible guest.” Akira frowned.

“You’re not a guest Akira, this is your home.” Namjoon challenged, making Akira look at him, “And we understand why you’ve needed to be alone. We’d never push you to be ready.”

“I just…I feel so guilty. I feel responsible for all of this…” Akira whispered weakly, bowing her head with embarrassment.

“You have nothing to feel guilty about, my love.” Jimin placed two fingers under her chin and raised her head, “Nothing you’ve ever done should have warranted what your father had done. Nothing.” Jimin spoke lowly, staring into her eyes. “None of this is your fault.”

“But I—.”

“No, no buts.” Jungkook pouted, wrapping his arms gently around Akira’s waist. Akira blinked, somewhat startled from the touch. “You’re innocent. What your family’s been doing is wrong.”

The silence was loud. Each held their breath as they awaited Akira’s reaction. Silently, a tear rolled down her cheek as she shuffled. Jungkook buried his face in the crook of her neck, scenting her, while Jimin swiped her cheeks, “It’s ok to cry, love. It’s ok to feel.”

“I don’t wanna feel.” Akira whimpered, “I’m tired of feeling, I don’t wanna deal with any of this, I wanna be numb.” Akira cried harder, making Jungkook whimper.

“You have to feel, beautiful.” Namjoon moved in closer, sitting in front of her on the edge of the coffee table, “Being numb closes you off to all the good feelings too, not just the bad ones. Look, listen to me,” Namjoon smoothly grabbed hold of her hands, “Whatever you’re feeling, whenever you’re feeling it, place that burden on us. It’s our job as your pack, your mates, to protect you. It’s our job to take care of you. Let us do that job, Akira.”

“I can’t,” Akira cried even harder, “I can’t.”

“You have to, princess.” Yoongi stood, towering next to Namjoon, “You have to let us try and take care of you; I know it’s not what you’re used to and I know you usually have to fend for yourself, but our pack doesn’t work like that. We take care of each other. We’re a family, we take care of everyone we love, and it’s a biological need to take care of our mate, it’s instinct. Taking care of you is basic instinct.”

“I don’t know how..” Akira sniffles, tears streaming quickly down her face.

“Then let us do the work. Let us take that burden from you.” Jimin spoke calmly. He tucked her head just beneath his chin as more tears spilled. It’s bittersweet to see someone you care about cry their eyes out. These weren’t tears of joy, they were of sadness and sorrow. Heartbreak and grief. Akira had to find her way out of the shadows and though she wouldn’t be alone, it was still such a lonely battle to finish.

— — —

“You’re awfully quiet over there, Tiny Lady. Any particular reason why?”

The past couple of days have been trying for Akira and for Bangtan. News circulated that the elopement of Naomi and Jackson caused drama within pack families, as it went against rules and customs. Even more so with the news of Bangtan not having a crossing ceremony at all, going straight into the legal proceedings between Hoseok, Namjoon, and Genevieve Batiste. The dust was settling. Akira was officially theirs, even if she could not be present for it.

“I heard grandmother and Namjoon talk when she was here…Naomi and Jackson…they’re back, aren’t they, Jin?”

No secret could be kept from Akira in Bangtan. News spread like wildfire that Jackson and Naomi were back from their impromptu honeymoon. Tensions flared once Namjoon and Jin were summoned to the Wang pack. Though he was pissed, Namjoon showed great restraint when it came to informing Jackson of what his and Naomi’s actions caused. Jin glared Naomi down as she sat next to Jackson the entire meeting Jackson tried apologizing, mortified at every detail Namjoon explained of Akira’s state.

“Akira,” Jin sighed, turning from the back patio’s lounge chair to her, “I really think you shouldn’t have to worry about that right now.” The air blew a slight breeze as everyone hung out in the large backyard. Jungkook and Taehyung were chasing a frisbee in their wolf forms as Hoseok threw it. Jimin and Namjoon were locked in a game of Go and Yoongi was grilling for everyone’s lunch. Jin decided keeping you company was best. “Stressing about it won’t help you heal any faster.”

“I’m not stressing about it. I want nothing to do with Naomi, I hate her.” The silence following had everyone stopping in their tracks. The guys knew that ultimately, they couldn’t separate from their brother pack, but the rift that was caused between sisters left both packs in a tough situation. “As far as I’m concerned, she doesn’t exist to me. I never want to see Naomi again.”

“Love,” Jimin called out, pausing from the game, “Naomi is still your sister, surely you two can—.”

“I don’t have any sisters.” Akira replied, the rippling chills that went down everyone’s spines as the coldness of her gravely voice seeped through, “Naomi Batiste is dead to me.” Though Akira meant every word, tears pooled in her eyes as she struggled to calm her emotions. This wasn’t just a rash decision for Akira, she really thought this through. Separating from her family really took an enormous amount of energy and effort into cutting them off for good, a feat she never thought would happen. “The Batistes’ are dead to me.”

“Beautiful…” Namjoon frowned, “I know that you’re upset, but you can’t possibly mean that.

“Please!” Akira groaned as her voice raised an octave, hurting her throat. Frustration clouded over her like a cloak, her hands reaching up towards her face and closing into a fist, “Don’t tell me what I don’t mean..” her voice traveled in a whisper as tears escaped suddenly. Akira quickly wiped her face, refusing to give any more tears to her family, “You’ve only seen a little of the damage they’ve done, you haven’t even scratched the surface of what they’ve done to me.” Taehyung and Jungkook whimpered as they moved closer to the patio, their large wolves towering over Akira. She never saw them shift into their wolf form, but even then, she wasn’t afraid. Taehyung whimpered the loudest, dropping his head down to chest level with Akira. Placing her hand on his snout, she stroked his face gently, “I’m sorry Tae, I’m not upset with anyone here…”

“How did you know that was Tae?” Hoseok frowned, confused.

“His eyes are the same.” Akira scratched his nose, making Taehyung huff before licking her face, “One brown, one green.”

“And that one,” Akira nodded, “has eyes like boba balls so I know it’s Jungkook.” Jungkook snorted, turning away from them. Jimin and Yoongi snickered, knowing Jungkook didn’t like being compared to anything cute. “I have never seen any of you shift before.”

“It’s not a pretty sight, princess.” Hoseok warned.

“You hear the sound of ripping flesh but it doesn’t. It just…disappears. Bones crack and break and repair themselves. It stops being painful after a while but the first time is…it’s not for the faint of heart,” Yoongi explained.

“Oh..” Akira frowned, petting Taehyung’s head. Jungkook came back, now in his human form with clothes drowning his large body. No one had seen him leave the patio, “It sounds horrible.”

“Only the first few times.” Jungkook smiled down at her, taking up a spot on the lounge chair by her feet, “But it’s so freeing, Akira.” His bunny smile only widened, “To be able to roam freely and howl at the moon. To run as fast you want with nothing but the earth beneath you? It’s so freeing.”

“I bet it is.” Akira smiled softly. Taehyung barked, making her jump.

“Taehyung says he agrees.” Jimin smirked.

“Back to the issue at hand.” Jin refocused the conversation, “Akira, we know that you’re upset with Naomi, but are you sure you want nothing to do with her?” On baited breath, they all waited for her response. Taehyung nudged at her hand, worry threaded through his mind. “Nothing to do with your family at all?”

Akira sat silently. Her mood shifted, making everyone around her feel her sadness. “I wouldn’t have chosen this if I didn’t want it. Of course I still want my grandmother around and I’ll always miss the children but this decision didn’t come lightly. I’ve realized that…” Akira shook her head slowly, thoughts spinning constantly, “Every moment of my life has been me living in constant fear. And my family has either been the root of it or hasn’t done anything to stop it. Do you understand how heartbreaking that is? To know that you were a mistake and that you were never really wanted? That’s cruel!” Akira shook her head, feeling the burn of more tears in her eyes. Taehyung huffed, nudging her hand with his head. She scratched his ear lightly before dropping her hand, “I don’t want any reminder of that part of my life around me. I can’t bear it.”

“Then we’ll follow your lead, Akira,” Namjoon decided, having shared agreement amongst the pack, “You won’t ever have to deal with them again, I promise.”

Akira stayed silent, something nagging at her mind, “I still want them protected.”

“Ok now I’m confused.” Hoseok placed his hands on his hips, utterly lost.

Akira sighed, “I know, it’s a lot to ask of, especially since it sounds like I’m flip flopping all over the place. And maybe it is my emotions, maybe they’re all over the place…but the kids didn’t do anything wrong. They shouldn’t get hurt because of the rest of my family, even if it means protecting them too. I know what’s happening with the rebels, I watch the news. They’re taking children and training them to be child soldiers. They're killing humans left and right without any thought to what it’d do to them mentally. They're even killing their own kind—I don’t want that for them. I know I probably have no say in what you all choose to do—.”

“You will always have a say, Akira. We listen to each other and we make decisions together. And biology aside, you are our omega, we will cherish every idea or concern you have, this is our way.” Namjoon assured her. Akira bit her lip, reluctant to speak. Jin reached over and grabbed her hand, “Whatever you want, we’ll support it. You’re the lady of the house, you run things.” He joked, making them all laugh.

“Doesn’t feel right when there’s a pack alpha in charge.” Akira replied.

“I may be the pack alpha but in the packs we were raised in, omegas ran the show.” Namjoon smirked, dimples fully on display. Taehyung stood to his full height, licking Akira’s face in surprise. She gasped, shock covering her face before her laugh rang out throughout the backyard. Smiling from his position from the grill, Yoongi called out to everyone, “Steaks are ready. Let’s eat!”

Taehyung ran off to the house to shift and change into some clothes. Jimin and Jungkook followed, going to the kitchen to bring out the side dishes while Hoseok helped Akira up from the lounge chair. “Easy princess. That limp of yours is still concerning.”

“It’s my side.” Akira winced, shifting to straighten her posture. “Breathing still hurts. I don’t heal as fast as werewolves, you know.”

“Even more reason for you to not overdo it.” Hoseok sat Akira down as he pulled out a chair for her.

“Yes Hobi.” Akira sighed, agreeing with him. Steak and glazed pork belly situated between a pot of ramyun, kimchi, Korean sweet potatoes, and parilla leaves and rice. Sitting next to her, Hoseok started placing food onto a plate and sitting it in front of her. Akira laid her head on his shoulder, staring at the table.

“We really should familiarize ourselves with more American food. We’re so used to eating things we like, we never stopped to think of things you might enjoy.” Jin frowned, seeing the setting of the table.

“I don’t mind. I enjoy trying different foods. Plus, you shouldn’t change your routines just for me.” Akira, having eaten Asian cuisine for most of her life, skillfully picked up her chopsticks and picked up a piece of pork belly. “Besides, I’ve had Korean food before, this city is mostly Black, Asian, and Latino, I’ve pretty much eaten everything I didn’t have to cook.” Hoseok nuzzled his nose against her head, smiling at how she ate without any struggle.

“Good to know.” Jin smiled, pleased.

“I hope you know, I don’t plan to just let you all do everything for me. I know it’s difficult taking care of me—.”

“It’s not a burden, if that’s what you’re thinking, Jagiya.” Taehyung mumbled as he stuffed his face, “We enjoy having someone to take care of.”

“It felt…nice. Being able to take care of you.” Jimin agreed, mixing his ramyun and rice together, smiling to himself.

“Is it a wolf thing? Or a man thing?” Akira removed her head from Hoseok’s shoulder, looking at everyone at the table.

“A little of both,” Yoongi answered for everyone, “As wolves, we’re territorial. We’re protective. It’s in our nature to provide for our mates, especially for Alphas. It makes us feel at ease.”

“Like an accomplishment?” Akira tilted her head a little, making Yoongi laugh,

“Something like that, yeah sweetheart.” Yoongi went back to his food, tearing a piece of parilla leaf off the plate.

“Sounds like a pride thing. I didn’t realize werewolves could be prideful.” Akira picked at her rice,

“Watch it, love.” Jimin smirked, teasing, “Werewolves are extremely prideful. Especially over mates.” Akira’s eyes widened cartoonishly, making everyone at the table laugh. Akira softly dropped her head on Hoseok’s shoulder once again, making a few of them stare at her. They loved how comfortable she was starting to be with their touch. Loved how relaxed and at peace she felt with them. Her scent blossomed around them; strong scent of cocoa and brown sugar engulfing them, almost like an underlying hint of vanilla. It was the smell of a content omega.

“Hm..” Akira pulled back. Eyes followed as she looked up at Hoseok then brought her head back to his shoulder.

“You ok there, princess?” Hoseok asked.

“Yeah. Just something funny I thought about.” Akira shook her head, pushing her food around on her plate. “When I was younger,” Akira paused, staring down at her food, “I used to sit on my grandmother’s porch and she’d be snapping peas or something. Sometimes we talked, sometimes we said nothing at all. Just sit there.” A small smile curled on her lips, “We used to drink this spiced lemonade, almost like she put ginger in it. And eat ginger snaps.”

“What brought this on, sweetheart.” Yoongi chuckled, bringing his food to his mouth.

“Hobi. Smells like lemonade and ginger snaps.” Akira giggled. Cutlery all dropped, even Hoseok’s, as they all stared at Akira with mild concern and shock. Akira looked up from her plate, nervous,

“What? What I say?”

Jungkook leaned into the table, “Wait, you can really smell Hobi-hyung’s scent??” Akira nodded slowly, confused as to why it was such a big deal,

“Yeah? Is he not supposed to smell like that?”

Jin shook his head, “No, he is, we’re just surprised you can actually smell his scent. Humans usually can’t smell wolves’ scents, it’s not a trait they can possess.”

Akira shrugged, “Oh…I mean it’s faint but I can still smell it. I can smell everybody’s scent.” They all gawked at Akira’s confession. Akira shrunk down in her seat, feeling embarrassed, “So this isn’t normal, is it?”

“Nothing about this was ever normal, sweetheart.” Yoongi gathered, “You were born into a family of wolves, maybe some of the traits are faint but there.”

“If our scents trigger a memory, then she is in fact our mate.” Jimin surmised. “Mates have trigger pheromones. Complimentary scents that remind their mates of something safe, particularly from childhood. For you, it’s spiced lemonade and ginger snaps, Hobi-hyung reminds you of a safe part of your childhood.”

Akira straightened, curiosity peaking behind her eyes, “So then…you were all meant to smell the way you do. You were meant to be appealing towards only me?”

“Do we trigger any other memories for you?” Jungkook asked expantly. Akira shrugged, a small, cute smile gracing her face as Jungkook got up and ran over to her.

“Down, boy!” Jin hollered as Jungkook robbed his face into her neck, scenting her as she giggled. Akira inhaled his scent without knowing, sparking another distant memory that made her feel happy and warm inside, “You smell like ice cream. Kinda like the kind my grandmother would make by hand.” Akira sniffed again, making Jungkook grin. Jimin huffed with a whine,

“No fair, I want a turn!” He pouted, making Akira laugh.

“See what you started.” Yoongi rolled his eyes as Jungkook walked back to his seat with a smug look on his face. Akira giggled loudly, making the entire table turn to her.

“I don’t mind. I actually kinda like it. I like knowing that I have some type of wolf traits in me.” Akira shrugged, “It feels normal for once.” They each looked at each other before hopping up from their seats, Jimin being the fastest to get to her. Akira laughed once more before bringing her nose down to his outstretched wrist. “Hmm..spearmint and eucalyptus. My grandmother used to put me in these cleansing baths with those scents. I used to love those, I used to sit in those for hours until I get all pruny and refused to get out.” Akira giggled, “She said they weren’t regular baths, it was to clear my spirit of any negative energy. Probably why I enjoyed them so much.” Jimin’s chest fluffed as his inner wolf purred with glee.

“Alright jagiya, me next.” Taehyung held out his wrist for Akira to sniff. She instantly felt relaxed, and it was noticeable amongst the group, “Lavender and rosemary? I remember my grandmother spraying this any time I slept over, she said it was the only thing to calm me down when I got restless. Something about not liking to have to leave my nest? Whatever that meant.” Akira shrugged. Taehyung stared over at Namjoon, nodding in his direction,

“When you were younger, were there certain things you couldn’t sleep without? Certain things that had to be just right or else you couldn’t feel comfortable?” Namjoon asked.

Akira squinted, her brain working overtime to remember, “Yeah, actually, now that I think about it, I had to have my bedding and stuff a certain way. I assumed I had OCD or something.” Akira laughed before it finally clicked, “That was a wolf thing, wasn’t it?”

Namjoon smiled, “Not just any wolf thing. An omega thing. Omegas tend to nest, to help them feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings. You were nesting, baby.” Akira exhaled slowly, letting the realization sink in. Taehyung slowly moved his wrist, leaning down to nuzzle his chin into her neck before giving her a kiss on the cheek, “You’re definitely not fully human, that’s for sure.”

“Then what am I?” Akira questioned softly.

“Maybe your wolf is laying dormant until she feels safe enough to come out? It has been known to happen to some. Kinda like late stage puberty, some wolves remain dormant because it’s a trauma response. She has to feel safe to come forward. You’re probably not connected which would also explain why you’re not healing as fast and why some of the traits like nesting and sense of smell are faint. It’s not uncommon.” Namjoon explained.

“So there’s a possibility that I am a werewolf?” Akira was anxious yet excited.

“Possibly. You could also be just human, there’s no way to test for it. It’s a waiting game.” Akira exhaled, a little sad at the thought of waiting. Suddenly, she smelt the coconut and leather waft over the patio table, relaxing her a bit, “I know you’re trying to relax me Joonie, it’s ok.”

“How did she—.” Jimin spoke before Akira cut him off,

“His was the first scent I smelled before everyone else. Smelled like coconut candies and leather, smelled like my grandfather’s journal I was never allowed to touch.” Akira twirled her chopsticks, remembering the day her grandmother caught her staring at it, along with a cologne he used to wear that somehow brought out his natural scent more, as her grandmother put it, “And Jin smells just like his cologne. Sage and juniper berries. Probably why she’s drawn to you two the most. You remind her of him.”

The table sat quiet as Akira picked at her food. Thoughts swirled in her head like clouds of smoke. Learning this new information brought on so many questions for her. Were the guys really meant to be her mates? Was she fully human or did she have a dormant wolf inside of her? How did all of these things work and why, even if she is human, was it never taught to her? “…What I don’t understand is how is it that your scents were specifically picked for me. That’s not a coincidence.”

“You heard of the Lycan Goddess, Akashi?” Jin asked. Akira nodded, remembering stories her grandmother told her of the goddess that created her kind. Of the half wolf, half human god that merged both worlds because she herself was taken care of by wolves after being attacked by other goddesses for her beauty. The jealousy created an all out war, causing her to be casted out after the Lycan God, Enkil declared his love for her over his wife, Anansi.

“My grandmother used to tell me stories. How Enkil and other gods were madly in love with her and how she was thrown from the heavens from the other goddesses because of jealousy. She only loved I’ve god, the human god of peace, Azul. She, being the wolf god of love and fertility, wanted to be with him and create a family, but because of the other gods fighting over her beauty, they killed Azul and banished her to earth.” Akira recited from memory, thinking back to the time her grandmother would read her stories of their goddess.

“Yes. She was beaten and taken away from her lover. It’s said that a pack of wolves found her, and instead of eating her, they made her a part of their pack, taking care of her and nursing her back to health. They became her family.” Yoongi finished, “She was so moved by their kindness that she rewarded them by making them half human. After they found out she was a goddess of fertility, the pack omega begged her to help her conceive because she wanted children. Akashi not only helped her, but created more werewolves so that they could thrive and multiply. Her werewolves were magically gifted though. They’re known as Divines.” Yoongi watched as the wheels turned in Akira’s head. Her lips trembled and eyes dilated slightly,

“Magical werewolves…are you talking about my grandmother?” Akira whispered softly.

“Yes baby, we are.” Namjoon interrupted, “Obviously she’s not one of the children, but she is an offspring of one. There aren’t many of them left, sadly, but it is possible that it runs in your family. Somewhere along the line, one of your ancestors was a Divine.”

Akira shook her head, the overload of information disorienting her, “Wait, how does this explain your scents being tied to me?”

Jimin smiled, “When Akashi helped the pack omega to conceive, it sprouted her love of children. The children she created were not only magical, she created them for the offspring of that pack. She created mates for them so that they would never be lonely. So that they could brace the world together. She made sure that their scents were compatible with each other so that they could find each other. A built in soulmate. Their wolves would awaken once they found each other. But as the decades passed, the werewolf bloodlines became diluted with mostly human DNA. More werewolves started following their hearts than their biological instincts.”

“I can’t believe this.” Akira dropped her head in her hands, overwhelmed by everything that was taught to her and everything that she just learned, “So you mean to tell me that even in my diluted bloodline, my grandmother is a Divine, a magical werewolf, and that the scents I smell off of you is because Akashi made all werewolves give of compatible scents so that they can find their mates…”

“Exactly.” Jin agreed, “We were meant to find you, and you were meant to find us. We’re meant to roam this life together until our time inevitably comes to an end.” Akira took a deep breath. Her body slumped in her chair as she processed everything.

“We know it’s a lot to take in,” Hoseok murmured, “But there’s some things that you’ve done that even we can’t deny are out of character for humans. That’s why we think it has to do with your family.”

Akira turned to him, “What things?”

“Well for starters, the scent thing.” Jungkook spoke, “Then there’s the nesting.”

“Also you respond to Alpha commands, like instinctually.” Taehyung chimed in.

“Hey, that's not fair, I don’t know when I do that.” Akira pointed a finger his way, not liking the fact that a few of them have used their Alpha command on her without her knowledge.

“And for that, we apologize,” Namjoon started, “but there’s also your sense of alertness. You were able to sense danger even before I could, like the night of the family dinner and that fight broke out. The reason why Omegas were coveted the most is because of their discernment. They have high alert signals that help them warn their pack when danger is near. It’s in their nature to protect what’s theirs. They are fiercely protective of their pack and the safety of that pack. Your traits, as faint as they are, are there. I think your wolf is just dormant because it doesn’t feel safe yet to connect with you.”

“But I do feel safe.” Akira uttered, “I feel safe with all of you.” The pack smiled at her admission. Hoseok pulled her close, rubbing his chin across the top of her head

— — —

“Why does Joseph hate me so much, grandmother? What did I ever do to him?”

Akira and her grandmother sat in her room, quietly having lemonade and cookies in the seating area of her room. Genevieve had been determined to see how her youngest grandchild was doing, even more so once she learned that Akira had been suffering from depression. She wanted whatever time she could get with her. “I don’t know little wolf. Maybe you remind him of the innocence he lost. Maybe you remind him too much of his father. Who knows.”

Akira frowned, putting down her glass of lemonade, “Grandpa?”

Genevieve sighed. She looked tired, Akira noted. Signs of stress covering her like a cloak, “Your father was young when he was killed, sweetpea. You look so much like my Booker…”

This tidbit surprised Akira, making her straighten her posture, “I do? Really?”

Genevieve smiled softly, yet there was a hint of sadness there, “Sometimes it’s the little things…you have his smile. His eyes. Sometimes when you speak, it’s almost like he’s right there in the room with me…” Akira frowned as her grandmother sighed deeply, closing her eyes as if trying to remember every detail of Booker’s face, as if she had to try.

“Deep down, your father is a hurt little boy with too much anger inside. He never healed, and I guess in a way, that’s my fault.” Genevieve admitted to not only Akira, but to herself of her shortcomings as a mother. She felt like she failed in handling raising her children after their father’s death, and she didn’t know how to cope.

Akira tsk’d, “How could that be your fault?”

“I never spoke about Booker until now, I couldn’t. Losing someone like that so suddenly…it’s a pain I never want you to go through. Having someone taken from you so forcefully…it changes you as a person.” Genevieve lamented. Akira nodded,

“I understand grandmother.” Akira looked away, her eyes trained on the condensation from her glass. The television provided background noise, the soft murmuring of whatever was on, being drowned out by their conversation. “When I was younger, I thought Joseph was how he was towards me because that was just his way. But I realized he could love, he could be affectionate …” Akira stared down at her hands, “Just not with me. I’m the living embodiment of his hatred. I remind him of his hatred towards humans; I am his grief, his pain, and his anger. Now that I know that I look like grandpa, that man had to look me in my face for 26 years and see the man he lost and couldn’t grieve. I reminded him of what he could no longer have.” Genevieve watches as Akira’s body shrinks deeper into the couch. She could feel the dark sorrow drown them both as it bounced off of her. She quickly switched gears, another coping mechanism Akira seemed to pick up from her,

“How are you here? They treatin’ you right?” Genevieve inquired.

Akira thought of her response carefully, “I’m safe here grandmother…I’m just…they really like me and I want to like them. I just don’t want to confuse my liking them with my need for affection. I want it to be real.” Akira explained, or at least attempted to explain, her feelings, “Namjoon said that he loves me. They all said they love me. I wanna feel that, I wanna love them eventually too but…how will I know that I do? I don’t wanna confuse my lack of affection and need for it with real love. It’s not fair to them. They deserve to be loved fully and I can’t give them that yet. I don’t know if I ever will.” Akira once again felt fresh tears threatening to fall as her heart ached. When Namjoon first told her that he loved her, it was during their first date. He had been so sure of his feelings, had no doubts, but Akira wasn’t sure of hers. She never knew what love felt like, and it terrified her that she could mess everything up.

“Oh little wolf,” Genevieve got up from the arm chair and sat next to Akira on the couch. Immediately, Akira burst into tears the minute Genevieve wrapped her arms around her, “you have every right to question your feelings. It’s all so overwhelming and confusing and everything is happening so fast that you don’t know where to turn. Your feelings are valid, my sweetpea.” Genevieve squeezed her shoulders, “I can’t tell you how you’ll be able to tell the difference, but what I can tell you is when you feel it, you will know it. You’ll look at them and everything will make sense suddenly. I hope you get to have the type of love that I experienced when I had Booker.” Genevieve wiped Akira’s face when she pulled back to ask her a question,

“Grandmother? Could you tell me more about grandpa Booker?” Though it was hard to talk about him, Genevieve couldn’t deny the sweet face of her granddaughter.

“Alright, lay down.” Genevieve made room for Akira to lay on the couch with her head against her lap. “Hm…Your grandfather was this…strong, incredibly smart man. He was as tall as a tree and built like a boxer. I mean he could lift all the kids with just one arm and still chop wood with the other.” Genevieve slowly ran her fingers through Akira’s hair, “He had the gentlest heart I ever seen. Booker would give his right arm to help whoever needed, wolf or human, it didn’t matter. He just always felt compelled to help others. And when he loved, god, he loved hard…no one could poison his heart about the people he loved and fought for.”

“He sounds great, grandmother.” Akira replied quietly.

“I wish you kids were able to meet him. He would’ve loved you all, he would’ve never —.” Genevieve paused, her voice growing shaky as she thought about all the things Booker would never get to do or see. Akira looked up at her grandmother, finding tears in her eyes. Genevieve mourned Booker terribly. He missed holding his first grandchild and handing over his daughter for her crossing ceremony. He missed birthdays and Christmases and other holidays. His death sucked all the joy that was left.

“Grandmother?” Akira worried.

“…I look at you and I see his face. I see the man that smelled like sage and juniper and swept me off my feet when I first met him. I see all his hopes and dreams…I see all the wishes he wanted and the plans we made…Booker was my everything and it kills me that he will never know you. That he would never know any of his grandchildren.” Genevieve’s small gasp had her tears falling and her hands wiping her face. Teary eyed herself, Akira slowly sat up and tried comforting her grandmother,

“I’m sorry grandmother. I shouldn’t have brought him up, I didn’t mean to make you cry.”

Genevieve shushed, “No, no baby, it’s ok. I needed to do this. I needed to talk about him, I needed you to know the kind of man he was.” She patted Akira’s arm, reassuring her that she was fine, “I think you would’ve been his favorite just because you have his face.”

Akira laughed, wiping her own tears, “I definitely would’ve loved that. I can tell he was a wonderful man. He was meant for you.” Akira laid her head on Genevieve’s shoulder. “You deserved to have him here, grandmother. And it isn’t fair that you had to lose him the way you did. No one deserves that. I know you aren’t comfortable talking about what happened, and I won’t ask. But I do believe you got to experience a great love, and I hope I can experience that one day.”

Genevieve pulled back, making sure to hold Akira’s face in her hands. Her thumb swiped beneath her eyes, wiping away Akira’s shed tears, “I know for a fact that you will, little wolf. You will have a great and wonderful love deserving of your heart. These boys will make sure of that.”

Akira whimpered, “I’m scared…” she whispered.

Looking up from her dress, Akira smiled towards her grandmother, “I am, ma’am. Taehyung told me to dress up so I’m trying to figure out what to wear.” Her sweet giggle made Genevieve smile. Entering further into the bedroom, Genevieve took a seat on the bed,

“I know things have been difficult for a while, little wolf.” Akira stopped what she was doing, sensing a soft edge in her grandmother’s voice, “With how your father ran his home and how he almost ruined your chances with your new pack. Things will get better, and soon, you’ll be with them.”

“Grandmother, what’s wrong?” Akira knew by the look on her face that it was serious.

“Your family will not come to your ceremony.” Akira plopped down next to her grandmother with a huge sigh,

“It’s alright grandmother. I kinda figured that they wouldn’t come. I thought after all of this, mama would be there…” Genevieve could see the sadness on her granddaughter’s face, “You know what? This hasn’t been a traditional courting anyway. I apparently have seven mates and I’m a human. None of this has been normal. Let’s not have a ceremony, grandmother.”

Genevieve rebuffed, “Little wolf—.”

“No, really, let’s not worry about it.” Akira interrupted, “I know planning something as big as this, with seven other people, it can be a hassle. I don’t want you to stress yourself over one night. We won’t have to have a ceremony. How about you and I just do dinner instead? I know the guys would love it, they enjoy you.” Akira smiled softly, shrugging her shoulders. Genevieve watched as Akira stood back up and picked up a black, long sleeved body hugging dress that reached to her ankles. “I better get ready, Taehyung will be here soon.” Akira might have been smiling when she went to the bathroom to change, but deep down, she was hurting. Despite how her family always treated her, she still loved them. She at least thought that her aunts and uncles would attend, but knowing that no one from her family would attend hurt more than she thought.

Still determined to have a wonderful date on this gorgeous Saturday night, Akira quickly finished getting ready, designing her braids in a half ponytail and slipping on a fluffy, oversized hunter green sweater. Her necklace danced in between her breasts that sat high in her dress. The oversized sweater slightly hung off her shoulders, but it still highlighted her curvy silhouette. Just as she was finished putting on her earrings, Akira could hear the doorbell ring from her room’s bathroom. She smiled, hurriedly turning out all the lights and grabbing her purse before rushing to the living room. There, she saw Taehyung and her grandmother smiling, most likely from something funny that happened.

“Shiiibal—I mean, you look great, Akira.” Taehyung gulped, straightening his stance abruptly. Akira’s lashes fluttered, cheeks puffed as she smiled. “Are you ready to go?”

Akira nodded, “I’m excited!” Taehyung smiled, walking over and reaching out his arm to her. Akira turned to her grandmother, “Night grandmother, I’ll be back by curfew!”

Like a gentleman, Taehyung opened the door for her. The sleek suv had an all black leather interior to contrast the white exterior. Akira couldn’t count how many cars she’s been in since courting started with the Bangtan pack. “Tae?”

Taehyung’s eyes widened at the nickname. No one besides family and friends had ever used such an informal name for him, “I’m sorry, I should’ve asked..”

“No, no, it’s just…” Taehyung trailed off, his lips widening into a boxy smile, “No one’s ever said my name as sweetly as you.” Akira quickly covered her face in embarrassment, making Taehyung laugh. He grabbed her hands, brought both of them to his lips and kissed the back of them, “You’re sweeter than I thought you were.”

“Oh god, Tae.” Akira scoffed, laughing as she tried looking away. Once the intense flirting ceased, Taehyung started the car. The drive into the city wasn’t long, but still pleasant nonetheless. Akira asked questions about his childhood, why he got into fashion, how he ended up in Bangtan, etc.. She loved hearing him speak, and in turn, he loved hearing her laugh.

“It’s just how it was growing up. One by one, each of our family’s moved into the same neighborhood and because our eommas got along so well, they decided that they would form our familial pack. We became like brothers; our siblings were each other’s siblings and when it was decided that we'd leave South Korea for Smeraldo Valley of all places, we each packed up and left. Our parents liked the quiet here. I think Jimin and I were 14 maybe?” Taehyung shrugged as he drove, more city lights clearer as he drove into the heart of the city.

Akira smiled gently, “I like that. I like that you all stuck together, and that you still kept your traditions with you. It’s rare to see families like that.” Akira trailed off, sighing as she looked out the window. Taehyung hesitated, but he asked, “What about your family?”

Akira shrugged, “We used to have traditions but as we got older, it stopped. Or should I say, they stopped. Half the time, I was excluded.” Taehyung watched a sad smile form on her face. He felt an ache in his chest, “But it’s not like I missed out on much. What my family lacked, my grandmother upheld. I spent most of the important moments with her, and that’s all I care about.” Pulling to a stop at a red light, Taehyung reached over and grabbed Akira’s hand. His thumb ran smoothly across the back of her, making shivers trace down her spine.

Once they arrived at their destination, a dimly lit bistro that featured a live band with elegantly dressed waiters and hostesses. Akira was in awe. Taehyung, watching from the side, smiled at her reaction. “This place is beautiful, Tae.”

“Meh, you’re more beautiful.” He replied. If Akira could blush, she would. Instead she turned her face away from him. After stopping in front of the restaurant, the valet quickly ran to Taehyung’s car door. Taehyung handed him the kiss as he hopped out before smoothly walking over to Akira’s side. After helping her out of the car, Taehyung held his arm out for Akira to grab. Walking in, Akira noticed that once again, people with reservations sat and waited for their table while Taehyung breezed on through. Even the hostess greeted him with a smile, “The usual, Mr. Kim? And will you be gracing us with your voice tonight? You know the guests love it.”

“Aish, not tonight, I’m with my lovely date, but maybe another time.” Taehyung laughed, to an area of the bistro he’s familiar with. It concluded to Akira that either he frequented the place a lot, or it was one of the few restaurants Jin owned. Walking near the stage, a reserved booth sat with clam shell-like padding. “Sooo we just gonna ignore that back there? You sing?” Akira giggled. Taehyung helped Akira up the steps and into the booth, sliding in behind her, “Yes, yes we are.”

“But I wanna hear you sing!” Akira whined playfully.

“Another time, in private, just for you.” Taehyung promised.

Akira could tell Taehyung was suddenly shy about it, so she dropped it. Akira looked around at all the patrons, decked out in their best dressed, “This place looks busy, I feel like I’m still underdressed.” Akira tugged on her sweater, pulling closer to her.

“You’re not, I assure you.” Taehyung shrugged off his jacket, revealing a black turtleneck to match his slacks. Not even two minutes in and a waiter was present at their table with menus ready, it made Akira jump with surprise. “I’ll have the amaretto sour, and the lady will have?” Both the waiter and Taehyung turned to Akira. Fumbling slightly, she replied,

“O-Oh! Um, I’m not much of a drinker…I’ll just have a Cherry Coke, please?” Akira sank a little in her seat. The waiter nodded with a polite smile then headed to the bar. Akira looked over her menu, noting how expensive everything looked. Well, expensive to her, probably not to anyone else. “There’s so much, I wouldn’t know what to choose.”

“What are you feeling tonight, then?” Taehyung asked, barely glancing at his menu before looking over at Akira. She shrugged,

“I’d never been here, you tell me.” Akira turned, holding out the menu to him. Taehyung smiled, pointing out a dish, “The Steak Diane is really good, I think you’d like it.” Akira nodded in agreement. She liked when she didn’t panic on a decision, it made her relax. The waiter came back with the drinks and took their order. Akira moved closer to Taehyung, watching the grenadine and cherries dance in her drink. “So are you excited for the crossing over ceremonies? They’re coming up pretty close.”

Akira shrugged, “I’m, um…I’m not invited to Naomi and Jackson’s ceremony.” Taehyung’s eyes dilated, protest at the tip of his lips when Akira said next, “My father doesn’t want me there, he thinks I’ll distract from their big day.” Akira stared at her drink, twirling the straw around slowly, “Honestly, after the first dinner, I’m starting to agree with him…

“I care about Naomi. I don’t want her day ruined because of my drama. I don’t wanna overshadow that, and if that means not going, then I just won’t go.” Akira sighed, taking a sip of her drink,, “I’ve even decided I don't want a ceremony of my own since everyone decided not to come.” Taehyung gawked,

“What? Why would you forgo your day just because they’ve decided not to celebrate you?” Taehyung seemed hurt by the thought. Akira felt guilty, but she knew that in her heart, she wasn’t seeing the special day like everyone else was, “Tae, I get that this type of thing is special, I do. And if I were a wolf and understood it more, I would be thrilled to participate, but the truth is, I’m used to not being celebrated, so my family not showing up is no surprise to me. I don't want my grandmother and your families going through all this hard work just for it to be wasted. I would rather do something with just us, like a dinner or something.” Akira shrugged again, “I don’t need fancy, Tae,” Akira chuckled grimly, “I’m not that special.”

“You’re wrong.” Taehyung replied darkly, “You are special, Akira. You’re special to us, and that means more than what you think. Why should you diminish yourself and your self-worth because your family can’t see how amazing you are?” Stunned, Akira couldn’t reply, “If they can’t wrap their heads around that, they’re not worth your heart, Akira. They’re not worth sacrificing your happiness or selfishness for.”

“Tae…” Akira shook her head and looked away. Taehyung grabbed her chin, making her look at him,

“Tell me you truly don’t believe you deserve better.”

“I…I don’t know…” Akira replied honestly, “I don’t know what I deserve…”

Taehyung sighed, “Jagiya, I wish you could see what we see. I wish you see how much you deserve better just like every other good person in this world.”

Akira tilted her head, “Damn, you’re good.” She had to hand it to him, he definitely had a way with words. Taehyung licked his lips as he leaned on close to peck her on the cheek. They stared at each other in silence as he continued rubbing her chin, before the waiter came back to take their order. Akira, feeling embarrassed at being caught, pulled away and looked away. Taehyung ordered for their table and then centered his attention back to Akira, “Tae, you’re staring.”

“You’re beautiful.” Quick reply made Akira groaned with awkwardness.

“Stop it.”

“It’s the truth—.”

“Tae.” Akira warned.

“Jagiya.” He replied with an even tone. Akira frowned. “Akira, the point of tonight is that I get to spoil you and you don’t get to complain, however I choose to do it.”

“But Tae—.”

“Omega.” Akira’s body straightened at the sudden command, which Taehyung took note of. Humans shouldn’t be able to do that, no matter the level of an alpha or beta in a pack. “As I was saying…You don’t get to complain. Whether that be spoiling you in compliments or presents, my job as your alpha, especially tonight, is to take care of you.” He tilted her head upwards by the chin, staring longingly at her plump lips, “I get to call you beautiful because you are, indeed, as beautiful as you are on the inside and on the outside. No one’s taking that from you.” Akira felt her insides warm and melt at his touch. She could stare into his mismatched colored eyes for the rest of the night and still feel shy. “Do I make myself clear, Akira? No more disrespecting yourself. When you do that, you disrespect Bangtan.”

“Yes Tae.” Taehyung looked at her expectantly, making Akira gulp, she whispered back, “Yes, Alpha.”

— — —

“And you’re sure she told you that she doesn’t want a crossing over ceremony? Like at all?”

Gathered around in the living room with his brothers, Taehyung nodded immediately as he stared up at his hyung, “She told me herself that since her family refuses to celebrate her crossing, she doesn’t want one. Thinks that her father is the reason they agreed to it. Her grandmother was doing all the preparations, not even her mother was helping. She feels like she’s a burden and will distract from Naomi and Jackson’s ceremony and also made the decision not to attend theirs.” Taehyung had just finished his date with Akira and dropped her off at her grandmother’s. The air in the room thickened as the members of Bangtan drew silent, “Namjoon hyung she’s so heartbroken. She keeps trying to hide it but it’s obvious.”

“It’s true, Joon-ah.” Yoongi sighed, pushing back his hair, “She didn’t say it explicitly but it seems her father is very controlling of her. He didn’t even allow her to finish high school.”

“You gotta be fucking kidding me.” Hoseok cursed, seething as he turned away, hands landing on his hips.

“I hate this family.” Jungkook grumbled, eyes twitching a slight red hue.

“Jungkook-ah.” Jin warned softly, pulling his hyung card, “Go take a breath.” Jungkook huffed, leaving the room. “Jimin, go with him, please?” Jimin nodded, running after Jungkook. The sound of clothes dropping and bones cracking in the background gave way to the howls of the wolves leaving their den. Hoseok sighed, pacing back and forth as he pinched his brows. Namjoon looked stressed, leg jumping up and down as his brain worked overtime. Jin spoke again finally, “Her family has really worked a number on her.”

“It’s her father. I have no doubt in my mind that he’s abusive.” Namjoon mumbled.

“He is.” Yoongi interrupted, “Any man who only singles out just one of his kids is abusive. Jin said he threatened her. He took only Akira out of school. He’s dangerous towards her. He hates her because she’s a human.”

“That’s not her fault.” Taehyung whined.

“It’s not, but to him, it might as well be.” Yoongi continued, “Whatever issues he has with humans, he’s taking it out on her, and I guarantee it’s been happening for years. We need her here with us, Joon.” Yoongi turned to Namjoon, who looked deep in thought.

“Right now, she’s with her grandmother. That’s the safest place for her until all of this is over, we can’t break the rules.”

“Screw these damn rules, they are hurting her!” Yoongi grew agitated, the red of his eyes glimmering. Sensing the tension rising, Hoseok intervened,

“Listen, I agree with you hyung, we all do. But what proof do we have? We bring it to our parents, to the counsel and then what? For all they know, the dinner was an isolated incident. And no one in her family is going to go against her father. We have to play by the rules.”

“You didn’t feel what I felt from her, hyung.” Taehyung shook his head. The bleak stare in his eyes made them concerned, “It felt like her soul was dying.”

Silence engulfed the room. They could faintly hear Jungkook howl at the moon, obviously far away but still listening. Jin looked up at Taehyung, who clearly looked like he was going to cry, “What are you saying, Tae?”

Taehyung looked down at his hands, shaking his head softly, “I’m saying I’m afraid she might hurt herself.”

“That’s insane.” Yoongi scoffed.

“It’s not.” Hoseok disagreed, “If you dealt with daily abuse, wouldn’t you find a way out?”

“Enough.” Namjoon silenced them all, suddenly getting upset. He didn’t want to think about it. He didn’t want to believe that Akira would ever harm herself, nor did he want to believe that she would ever leave them heartbroken, “We leave it alone for now. She’s safe with her grandmother, I know that for a fact.”

“How can you be so sure?” Taehyung questioned.

“Because her grandmother is a Divine.” All three heads shot to Namjoon. Eyes widened in surprise, a Divine was living among them.

“A Divine? How do you know this?” Hoseok was skeptical.

“She told me. During one of our visits, I saw her use her magic. They’re ancient magic, very rare, even her family hasn’t heard of them, I don’t think they realize she is one. Only a few have seen them. With that type of power, Akira is safer with her grandmother.” A Divine is considered a demigod of sorts. Children of the lycan goddess mother, Akashi. Believing that her love for children sparked the creation of demigods, Divines. She planted a few seeds of love. And they grew and had seeds of their own and so on. To be a Divine means tremendous power flows through you. Namjoon wasn’t so worried.

“I can’t believe it.” Jin seemed the most surprised out of everyone. He had heard the legends before but didn’t believe they were true. “Do you think Akira knows? She has to know.”

“No.” Namjoon replied, “ And I don’t think that’s our story to tell. But the main thing right now is knowing she’s safe. We’ll deal with the rest once it happens.”

— — —

“You’re always so beautiful every time I see you, Akira. I can’t tell you how lucky I feel to see your face.”

Hoseok originally was supposed to go next for his date with Akira, but sadly something came up at work. Naturally, Namjoon, Jungkook, and Jimin fought for the spot, while Jin patiently waited for his time. Namjoon pulled the hyung card, outranking them both and left Jungkook and Jimin pouting.

“Namjoon, please..” Akira mumbled shyly, burying her face into his chest as she giggled. Namjoon stood with her outside a movie theater, waiting in line to see the latest Marvel movie. His arms wrapped securely around her waist, bringing her closer to him. She was small in his hands, no higher than Yoongi or Jimin. He made her giggle and swoon and blush; her cheeks were hot and aching from smiling. “I get shy every time I’m with you.”

“So what? I find it cute.” His deep voice rumbled, making Akira shiver. After the line moved up and you got your tickets, Namjoon brought you to the concession stand. “Order whatever you want.”

“Whatever I want? You sure ‘bout that?” Akira questioned cutely. Namjoon just smiled,

“Yes beautiful, whatever you want.” He stood behind her, engulfing her with his body. Secretly, he wanted his scent to mask hers, making sure others knew she was his. But in reality, he just really liked holding her. And Akira really liked letting him hold her. She liked the safety she felt with him, how she felt warm in his arms. He provided a comfort that hadn’t been known to her in years.

“Mmm, Joonie I want popcorn, some raisinettes, and a sprite, please?” Akira turned her head, looking up at him. Namjoon smirked, staring down at her,

“Joonie huh?”

“I hear the boys call you that all the time. I can call you by your name if—.”

“Don’t you dare.” Namjoon interrupted playfully, “I don’t want any formality between us.” Namjoon pecked the side of her head. He ordered for them and within minutes, Akira was over by the butter station, pouring butter on her popcorn. But then Namjoon had to run to the restroom.

“I told you you should’ve just used the restroom before we left, it’s a 3 hour movie.” Akira laughed, watching him groan as he ran inside. Akira felt she dressed cutely today: her white, long sleeve turtleneck hidden beneath a black overall dress with matching black chunky heeled boots. Her braids were down today, softly pushed back by a white headband. Akira didn’t know it but she was 90s fine. The girl that a Dewayne Wayne or an Eddie Winslow would date, if 90s men weren’t shallow. Yet every time she felt even just a little bit confident, there was someone to snatch it away.

“Yeah that’s her! I heard she was here with Kim Namjoon!”

“Seriously?? What the hell does he see in that whale?”

“I heard that she’s his mate. For the WHOLE pack!”

“My god I feel sorry for them. They have that thing as a mate.”

Suddenly Akira didn’t feel as confident as she had before. Not with the constant whispering and stares. She pulled at her skirt; eyes staring at her brown skin and teeth plunging down on her plump bottom lip. Tears started swelling in her big round eyes. Akira decided she no longer wanted to see the movie.

“Get up.” A deep voice conjured her out of her subconscious. Akira slowly raised head to Namjoon, staring back at her. Akira slowly stood. Her fears and sadness, squashed by a single kiss. She was taken aback by the sudden feel of his lips. The aggressiveness shocked her nervous system; a chorus of gasps surrounding them. Namjoon held the back of her neck with one hand while circling her waist the other. Relaxing into the kiss, Akira slowly brought her arms around his neck; his tongue seeking entrance between her lips. Getting lost in her scent blooming, oozing sticky mapley sweetness, Namjoon suddenly pulled away. His eyes red like hellfire, searching the room for those that wished to speak ill of his mate.

Heads turned to avoid eye contact, clearly afraid of the head Alpha. Beneath Namjoon, Akira stood, absolutely buzzed, high off his strong scent alone. Her eyes doubled in size, and she could barely stand, leaning into his chest for help. “J-Joonie?” Namjoon retreated back to his love, her soft voice calming his nerves, “Yes, beautiful?”

“What was that?” Akira asked tentatively.

“Just letting it be known that you are mine. And if anyone has a problem with it, they can damn sure bring it to me.” Namjoon cut his eyes at a group of people passing by, all scrambling to avoid his gaze. “Are you alright, beautiful?”

“I think so. Just a little dizzy.” Namjoon held her waist firmly, watching her dilated eyes return to normal. Namjoon let her go, regrettably, then picked up the snacks,

“Ready for the movie?” He asked nonchalantly.

Akira blinked, astounded and confused.

— — —

“Namjoon? As much as I enjoy making out with you, and believe me, I do…I don’t think this is a good idea.”

It certainly wasn’t a good idea for Akira and Namjoon to go parking and make out in his car. And it definitely wasn’t a good idea to be straddling his lap while his seat is down. Akira’s dress rose beneath her ass, just lightly tickling where Namjoon’s fingers gripped her thighs. Namjoon, lips plump and glossy, skin blotchy from overheating as they have fogged up all the windows. Namjoon frowned in confusion, “Why not, baby?”

Akira could’ve nearly melted at the new pet name, and nearly melt she did. His fingers rubbed underneath her thighs, turning her skin hot. “Joonie, please.”

“You gotta use your words, baby.” Akira whined, making him chuckle. Slowly, Namjoon sat up. Akira fell to his lap, the wet spot of her underwear nearly touching his clothed crotch. Namjoon tipped toward, kissing along Akira’s chin to her lips again. “C’mon. Talk to me.”

“I d-don’t—mmm, I don’t wa-mm—fuck,” Akira moaned, feeling Namjoon roll her hips against his, fingers fully disappearing beneath her dress as he grabbed her ass. Akira felt overwhelmed. The hardness she felt brushing against her clit made her whimper. “J-Joon!”

“Yes baby?” He whispered, breath hot against her ear as he bit down playfully. Akira’s eyes rolled to the back of her head; Namjoon squeezed her ass again, his fingers lowered dangerously towards her lower lips. He couldn’t even let her speak as his lips found hers again , devouring every moan she offered him. He moved her hips at a faster pace, making her thighs tense. He couldn’t get enough of the way she smelled. That sweet, syrupy scent was heaven sent. Made him think of warm, cozy nights, hot chocolate dancing on his tongue with a plate of cookies nearby. His deep voice made her drip even further, making his inner wolf growl. “I don’t wanna trigger you.” Akira moaned loudly as she pulled away from his lips, the next wave of her hips against his crotch brushed firmly against her clit. She gripped his shirt, willing him to stop for a moment, “Please Joonie.”

“Babygirl,” Namjoon plucked her by the chin, making her look at him, “you won’t trigger my rut, I promise. I have great control of that.”

Akira stared on, doubtful, “I-I…” Akira exhaled deeply, “If I do, I don’t think I can—.”

“Shh, shh,” Namjoon interrupted, shushing her, “I would never ask you to help me out in that way, Akira. Especially like this.” Akira sat straight. Reminded of the talk she had with Naomi, she suddenly remembered what triggering a rut would do. What it all entailed. Akira looked away from Namjoon, rising up off his lap and sitting back in the passenger seat, fixing her dress. Whatever it was, Namjoon knew he fucked up. Aside from the sweetness of her arousal, there was the burnt smell of sugar, no doubt the smell of sadness coming from Akira. “Akira, if I insulted you, I never meant to, I promise I didn’t.” Namjoon looked over at her folded up body. Her feet tucked beneath her legs, and her embarrassed expression fixated on her thighs, “I just don’t want your first time to be because of a rut. And I especially don’t want it to be anywhere that isn’t comfortable for you.” Fed up with the silence, Namjoon reached over and gripped her chin, making Akira look at him, “I want your first time, whether it be with me or one of the guys, it should feel special. Not rushed and definitely not during the most triggered moment of someone’s life. I respect you too much to take that moment away from you just because of a week’s worth of raging hormones.”

“It’s…it’s not that.” Akira spoke softly, reaching up to remove his hand, “I know you don’t want that for me, I appreciate it, but…” Her fingers danced over his, playing with each one, “God this is embarrassing..”

“Whatever it is, you can tell me.” Namjoon assured her.

“…How do you deal with them? Your ruts?” Akira watched as Namjoon breathed in deep at the question, obviously not prepared for it. Akira was afraid of the answer she knew she’d get, and it wouldn’t be pleasant.

“You’re asking me if I’ve ever slept with anyone for it.” Namjoon realized, turning his hand to grab hers. “Akira, I want complete honesty between us.”

Akira worried, “So do I, Joonie..”

“I have in the past. We all have.” Akira exhaled briefly, staring down at his large hand, “I can’t lie to you. When our rut comes, we do get help from some…friends we know. No strings attached, just helping each other from time to time.” Unintentionally, Akira squeezed Namjoon’s hand. Was she embarrassed? Saddened? Jealous? Akira wasn’t sure. “Akira? If you’re upset, I would understand…” Silence, “Say something.”

“I…understand it.” Akira spoke softly. Namjoon was surprised, “I was told that it’s not a pleasant experience. Almost unbearable.” Akira pouted, “It’s not my business, I know that…Joonie, what you and the rest of the guys do to ease that part of your life is your business. And…when the time comes, I won’t interfere with whatever deal you have going on with your friends.”

“Akira,” Namjoon sighed, “baby, I can’t speak for everyone else but my self control is a lot better than it used to be. I don’t need nor want help for it. And I wouldn’t disrespect you like that.” Akira bit her lip, unsure of what to say. Namjoon let go of her hand and grabbed her chin gently, “You are the lady of the house now. You’re the pack omega, our home is your safe space. You don’t ever disrespect the safe space of a den omega. I wouldn’t dream of bringing another woman in when I have you, even if you don’t help me with my rut.”

“But I don’t wanna see you in pain.” Akira frowned.

“Same goes for you.” Namjoon countered back. Akira’s eyes once again welled with tears. Namjoon brushed his forehead against hers, the gesture a sign of vulnerability, “You're my mate, you’re way too important to me now.”

“So what am I supposed to do? I never see male wolves go into a rut, I usually get sent away to my grandmother’s with my sisters.” Akira, for all her family's faults, was sheltered from a lot of things. She never got to see them turn, she never experienced their heats and ruts, she never saw a lot of things.

“When the time comes, you’ll know what to do.” Namjoon reassured her. The look in her eyes had Namjoon falling in love with her. Akira felt so lost and so confident all at the same time. Her time with them felt like a little bit of time peace in an otherwise violent world. She wanted that peace to last for the rest of her life, “Something else is on your mind, I can tell. Spill it, beautiful.”

“A couple of weeks ago, I heard my uncle talking about rebel packs picking up the nomads and recruiting them. I will admit, I don’t know much about what’s happening but I know enough to know that that’s not good, is it Joonie?” Namjoon sighed then nodded, pulling back some. “Is this why the summits are really held? Not just for moving omegas and betas to other packs, but to form alliances?” Namjoon had to hand it to her, Akira really paid attention to her surroundings.

“It’s more complicated than that, but yeah. It’s so that smaller packs can have protection from the rebels. They want to gain control over the human population as well as the werewolf population. They want to segregate the humans and eventually have complete control over them. It hasn’t happened in Smeraldo yet, but it’s working its way here. They’re coming from the east, taking over smaller groups. Packs have started forming alliances to maintain the order we have now but some turn.”

“Well then I’m confused.” Akira pondered aloud, "If your pack is the most powerful, how would these other packs take over in the east?”

“Our.” Namjoon corrected, smiling softly, “And we're the most powerful In Smeraldo. Outside, we are one of 100. We’re influential, yes, but there’s more of us out there. Do you remember how we told you that the Wang pack was our brother pack?” Akira nodded, following along, “It’s not just because Jackson and I and our brothers grew up together. We’re a part of an organization called The Collective. There’s a hundred packs with ties and connections around the world to make our society work. We help each other. Bangtan is second in command, followed by Jackson’s pack.”

“Who’s the first?” Akira looked so enthralled by the new information that Namjoon indulged her curiosity,

“The Choi pack. There’s seventeen of them, not counting their mates.” Akira’s eyes widened tremendously, “We might be third generation wolf, but our generation started The Collective when we noticed there were deaths surrounding our kind. We assumed hunters but some of them were wolf-related. In order to protect each other and our families, we created the organization. Our familial packs followed suit, wanting to protect everyone. But I guess…somewhere out of the hundred or so of us, some have splintered off. We have certain rules and regulations and if they no longer follow—.”

“They rebel.” Akira finished. Akira looked away, “That’s why my father pushed us. He’s scared.”

“I won’t align myself with him if that’s not what you want.” Namjoon promised, “My main concern is you.”

“I know, and I wouldn’t ask you to, it's just…” Akira trailed off, her thoughts a complete mess. She didn’t want her family to be a part of this society Namjoon and few others created, selfishly, she didn’t want to share. But truthfully, she knew deep down, even with all the scars they left, she couldn’t hurt them. “I think about the children. My grandmother. My mother…” Akira looked down at Namjoon's hand. She turned it over palm side up, “I wouldn’t compromise their safety, no matter how I feel about my family. They don’t deserve that.”

“Doesn’t your family have connections of their own?”

“Yes, but only because of my grandmother.” Akira shook her head, facing Namjoon, “Out of respect for my grandfather, his family was one of the founding families of Smeraldo, like, decades ago. Out of a few hundred or some black werewolf packs in the country, ours has been the most influential among our community. But after he died, things kinda changed. No one ever bothered my grandmother. I guess her magic kinda made people weary, but it also kept some families safe. And then outsiders came in,”

“You mean like me? I’m not originally from here, you know that.” Namjoon expressed. Akira nodded,

“I know. The city expanded and it seemed like my grandmother could…relax. I guess once she noticed that she didn’t have to fear anything anymore, she could be ok. Still kinda closed herself off a little, but it’s not as bad.”

“If you don’t mind me asking,” Namjoon hesitated before speaking again, “how did he die? Your grandfather.

Akira pursed her lips before a heavy sigh brought her heavy chest forward, “He was killed. By humans.” Akira spoke almost in a whisper as she looked back down at Namjoon’s hand, “Grandmother refuses to go into detail about it and I could never ask my father, he seemed angry any time it was mentioned. But I know she truly loved him. So much that the thought of even entertaining another man would’ve made her skin crawl. I think he was her mate. He died when my father was really young, maybe 11 or 12. She used to say loving Booker was the greatest gift she ever got, and nothing could compare to that. She had four children, my father being the oldest. But Booker Joseph Batiste was her everything.” Namjoon could feel her hands shaking. The small sniffle was enough for him to reach across and hold her wet cheeks, “Joonie..”

“Tell me what’s wrong, Akira.” Namjoon worried.

“Is that what it’s like? Having a mate?” Akira raised her head, the watery look she gave him made his chest ache, “The greatest joy you can ever have in the world, until it’s taken from you, and all you have is constant pain for the rest of your life? It seems so awful.” Akira sniffled again, finding tears sliding down her face, “My grandmother constantly mourns him. She rarely ever smiles and I think she’s waiting to die one day just to be with him. I don’t wanna live like that.”

“I think your grandmother’s love for your grandfather was more than just being mates. I think she loved him so deeply that losing him would’ve hurt more than any of us could imagine. I can’t tell you how to feel about us Akira because you’re entitled to your own feelings but as for us, as for me…I feel as though I’ve fallen in love with you.” If it weren’t for his super hearing, Namjoon would’ve never heard the tiny gasp escape from her lips. Akira never had someone fall in love with her before. She’d never been on a proper date, let alone thought of boyfriends until these men drifted into her life. How could they possibly be in love with her already? How could she possibly feel the same?

“You barely know me, how can you fall in love with me?” Akira whispered back, shock still lingering over her.

“I know enough.” Namjoon chuckled, stroking her face. “In the few months that we've talked to each other, I know a lot of things. I know that you like the rain because it’s soothing to you. I know your favorite fruit is strawberries. I know you like having music playing when you cook, and I know when you’re happy, you smell like hot cocoa instead of chocolate chip cookies, when you’re just feeling okay.” Akira’s breathing faltered, surprised by all of this, “You think I don’t know you, but I do. I know some things, not all, and I wanna learn more. That’s why I know I love you, Akira.” More tears fell down Akira’s face as Namjoon left her speechless. She didn’t know what to say, yet she didn’t really have to say anything. He swiped her cheeks lovingly, with a soft smile on his face. Akira felt overwhelmed. She hadn’t received this type of attention or love from someone before and sadly, it showed.

Akira leaned in closer and naturally, Namjoon followed. Their lips met and molded together. Her tiny gasps made his wolf growl with pleasure, ‘Need her, need our omega.’ Namjoon groaned, “I need to take you home soon. If I don’t, my wolf might come out.”

“I thought you said you could control it?” Akira panted, slightly dazed from the kiss.

“Yes, but you make it very difficult to.” Namjoon groaned, pressing his forehead against hers. Akira giggled, sweet and bubbly as Hoseok first described it. Namjoon kissed her cheek and forehead before fixing his seat and starting the ignition. He drove her home in a comfortable silence, one where Akira held his free hand the entire ride.

— — —

“Hobi, I never pictured you as a picnic kind of guy.”

Sitting in the middle of the city park, under a large oak tree with a large blanket, lunch and snacks was Akira and Hoseok. To make up for missing their date night the night before, Hoseok wanted to take Akira on a nice lunch date. Was it an impromptu date? Yes, but Hobi knew Akira wouldn’t have minded. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me.” Hoseok smirked, making Akira grow shy, “But sometimes, on days like this, I like to be outdoors. Helps clear my head.”

“I take it Joonie told you about our date last night.” Akira sighed, putting down her steak sandwich, all of the food Hoseok made by the way. Akira felt like she left with a lot more questions than answers last night, and it was painfully obvious on her face at the moment.

“More or less. But he’s not the only one, princess.” Hoseok dropped his head, trying to get Akira to look him in the eyes, “What’s this I hear you don’t want a crossing over ceremony.”

“…Taehyung told you?” Akira fiddled with her fingers, looking down at her shorts.

“We don’t keep secrets in Bangtan, princess. And while I think I understand why you don’t want it, just know it’s not just your ceremony, it’s ours too. And we wanna proudly show you off.” Hoseok watched as Akira pouted, a soft sour look on her face,

“I didn’t think about that.” Akira mumbled, “I just…I didn’t want the fuss, you know? I know that my grandmother and your mothers are planning this event for us and I’m forever grateful for it but…I just can’t get behind the excitement of it. I don’t feel the joy I thought I would feel.”

“Because you feel like there’s nobody there supporting you?” Hoseok questioned. Akira fiddled with her bracelet, particularly the Sun charm. Hoseok smiled at that. Hoseok laid down and stretched his arms out, “C’mere princess.” Akira hesitated at first but laid her head on his stomach, “You have a right to feel that. But there is always somebody supporting you, princess. We’re all here.”

“I get that but—.”

“No buts, omega.” Hoseok playfully scolded, to which Akira slightly pouted. He liked that she responded to him like a normal omega would. He liked that she obeyed them in the sense that it was willingly and not by force. His eyes traveled her body. From the position, face covered by her visor. The matching black biker shorts stretched over thick thighs, extending just beneath her oversized cream colored t-shirt. Her gold puzzle piece necklace dangling down her chest. Hoseok picked up a strawberry, dangling the fruit in front of her lips, “Open, princess.” He heard her tiny gasp before she followed suit, opening her plump rose colored lips. Hoseok fed her more fruit as they talked. An hour later, positions switched as they both relaxed under the shade of the oak tree. Hoseok laid his head on her thigh. Akira ran her fingers through his hair. They talked and talked, about nothing and everything all at once.

“I think next to rain storms, this is probably one of my favorite things. Just being here, out in nature, clearing my thoughts. Thank you Hobi. I really enjoyed today.” Hoseok opened his eyes and smiled up at her. “Can we do this again, Hobi? Soon?” Hoseok groaned as he sat up. He looked over at Akira once more, taking a hand to pluck at her chin, “Sure thing, princess. But I have to let Jin, Jimin, and Jungkook take you on a date first, they haven’t had their turn yet.”

“Wouldn’t want to upset them then, huh?” Akira giggled.

“No, you don’t.” Hoseok laughed, “Jin is the more patient out of the three, he likes the anticipation. Jimin has a temper like a toddler and JK gets jealous when he’s not getting attention.”

“Oh lawd, he knows he has to share me, right?” Akira laughed again.

“Yes, but he’s the baby. The pup always had to share, but with you, it’s different.” Hoseok shook his head, “He feels very strongly about you and honestly, I can’t blame him. We all do. He’s the most protective of you.”

“Is that how you all feel? Do you feel overly protective of me too, Hobi?” Akira tilted her head back, feeling the slight breeze drift across her neck. Her eyes closed and the ends of her braids tickled at her wrists. Soon she felt a presence looming over her, but she dared not open her eyes, familiar with the spiced mahogany and bergamot scent rolling off Hoseok’s body. The brush of his lips made her gasp as they pressed against her exposed neck. He pressed firmly but gently from her clavicle to behind her ear. Akira’s breath labored, “Of course I do. Werewolves are always protective of their mates. But you, princess..” Hoseok growled near her ear, making her eyes slightly roll close and the barest of moans slip from her lips, “You’re different. We want to protect you and never let you go.” Hoseok reached up and grabbed Akira’s chin, turning her head towards his. His lips melted against hers, trapping in her sweet moans.

Akira raised her hand to the back of his neck, fingers tangling in his long hair. Public outing be damned, Hoseok and Akira made out like teenagers. Akira tugged at his hair, a guttural growl deep from within, sent shivers all through Akira’s body. Hoseok’s wolf was definitely trying to escape, ‘Omega smells so sweet. Please omega.’. Hoseok pulled back slowly, chucking to himself. Akira panted with a small frown, “What?”

“My wolf. He wants you just as bad as I do.” Akira blinked rapidly, sitting straighter as the tidbit surprised her, “He’s craving something sweet.” Hoseok smirked, making Akira bite her bottom lip and look away.

“Hobi, stop it.” Akira giggled. Oh how he loved that sound already. Hoseok leaned in again, nipping at her neck and her cheek, making her giggle again.

“No, you taste too good.” Hoseok refused. Akira gasped again, playfully pushing at his chest. They stayed a few moments later packing up and heading back to Akira’s home. For once, she had a free night, no dates. She had a lot of decompressing to do,

“Hobi?”

Hoseok looked at her just as he pulled up to her home, “Yes princess?”

“Can you talk to your wolf? Like, have actual conversations with him? Can your wolf communicate with others, too?” Akira turned to him, expecting an answer.

Hoseok smiled, “Yes. He’s primal, naturally but he can communicate and yes, he can talk to other wolves, but only those that are in our pack or our familial pack.”

“You know what’s funny? I used to pray that I had a wolf of my own.” Akira chuckled grimly, looking down and away at her charm bracelet, “That maybe I wasn’t different from my family, maybe she was just shy or mute. But when I realized I wouldn’t be one, I saw how quickly things in my family changed. I was alone. They didn’t know how to deal with me and honestly, I didn’t know how to deal with me either. I guess…deep down…I knew the day we found out would be the day everything would change.” Akira shrugged grimly once more before turning to Hoseok again, “I really have had the best week, with all of you. I haven’t felt this special in a very long time. Thank you, Hobi.” Her soft voice made his ears twitch as Akira leaned over and gave him a soft kiss.

Akira soon hopped out of the car and headed inside. Hoseok was beside himself. He couldn’t describe it but maybe this feeling of brokenness, this hollowness…maybe it’s exactly what Taehyung was trying to explain to them. He felt her pain. Greater than any feeling he’s ever felt. It brought tears to the man’s eyes as he drove away, not wanting to leave her.

— — —

“I can’t do this anymore! They’ve taken over everything, it’s practically not my ceremony anymore!”

Akira watched as her sister Naomi paced up and down her bedroom. She shortly came to visit after having an argument with their parents about her crossing over ceremony. Once again, Naomi’s pleas weren’t heard and, feeling overwhelmed, she ran to the one place she felt safe: her grandmother’s. “I just wanted something small but they’re making it into this grand thing! Jackson understood that, why couldn’t they?”

“I don’t know, Naomi, I wish I did.” Akira spoke quietly, feeling sad that her sister felt overshadowed by such a thing. She knew that feeling all too well, and still couldn’t find a way to help her. “What has Jackson said?”

“He’s trying to be understanding and see everyone’s side, but he knows how much I hate attention so he’s trying to be firmer with them. Still, he respects his elders too much.” Naomi plopped down in a chair, crossing her arms over her chest, “How’s things with grandmother, has she been planning yours?”

Akira nodded, “At first, I told her I didn’t want one since no one was coming, but since I talked to the guys, I changed my mind. Grandmother is in town now, going over things with their mothers.”

“I wish I could be there but Jackson and I are going away right after our ceremony. He thought I could use the time away to relax.” Naomi sighed, fiddling with her bangle, a gift from Jackson, “I just wish we had a say. To do it our way, without interference. At least grandmother lets you have a say.”

Akira sighed, “Yes, but I’m barely involved with it honestly. I’ve been busy trying to get through all these dates, I still have a date with Jimin this Friday, one this Saturday with Jin and one with Jungkook, Sunday.” It had been a week or so since Akira’s last date with Namjoon and Hoseok. And a week before that, with Yoongi and Taehyung. Now, her long anticipated wait was nearly over with the last three remaining members of her pack. She could hardly stand the wait.

“My, my, haven’t we been busy, little sister.” Akira tilted her head slightly, not sure if Naomi meant the bitter tone she used. Still, she responded back as normal,

“My situation isn’t like yours. You have one mate to look after, I have seven. You have more time to focus on Jackson and vice versa. Which is why, I think you should put your foot down and tell them that you want something small and intimate that reflects you and Jackson, not your families. You’re a Beta, your input should matter most, shouldn’t it?”

Naomi frowned, crouching over in her seat, “You really think I should?”

“Yes, I do.” Akira nodded emphatically, “Naomi, you’re gonna spend the rest of your life with that man. Shouldn’t you both have a moment where you reflect on the moment that you two became each other’s mates? It’s supposed to be about you two, not everyone else. You’re stronger than you think Naomi, you really are.” If only Akira could believe her own words for herself.

“You really believe in me, don’t you?” Naomi stared up at Akira. Akira smiled simply, nodding.

“I always believed you could do anything, Naomi. I looked up to you the most when I was younger.” Akira smiled, looking away. On her nightstand was a very old picture in a silver picture frame. The glass was cracked from the time their father threw it at a wall near Akira’s head, but it was still intact. The picture of three little girls, all in dresses with their hair done up for a birthday party. A little Naomi, just at four years old, two front teeth missing, all smiles next to a smiling seven year old Justine who held two year old Akira. The same bright eyed look in her eyes as now. Naomi followed Akira’s train of sight, looking at the cracked picture frame.

“You kept this?” Naomi got up and walked over to the nightstand. She picked up the picture frame, gliding her fingers over the glass. Akira mumbled a soft ‘yes’ with a light sigh. Naomi didn’t realize she could feel the agony her baby sister carried. The weight of it filled the bedroom as she glanced at Akira, who, unbeknownst to her, had shed tears in her eyes as the memory of that day replayed in her mind. The oddest thing happened. For Naomi, it felt as though she could feel her sister’s pain, “I think this is the only picture of the three of us together.”

“Yeah, it kinda is. It’s the only one I have of you two smiling…” Akira felt her throat starting to close. “I remember the night he threw it. I don’t know what I did, maybe I said or did something to make him angry. I was 12, I didn’t know. I just remember him throwing it at me, but he missed, and then walking over to me. I got whipped with his shoe that time, not the belt. I remember I nearly blacked out cause it was one of his hard bottom shoes? You know the ones with the red underside? Then he locked me in the coat closet until I could behave better.” Naomi’s horror-filled reaction was something Akira expected, “You weren’t there, you were at cousin Nikki’s for a sleepover. Maybe that’s what I did to make him angry, maybe I whined about not being able to go? I don’t know.” Akira shrugged, wiping a stray tear, “Anyway, Justine, Malik and Braxton were there. They just went to their rooms. They never really got in trouble much now that I think about it…” Akira's laugh was hollow as it was dark, chilling Naomi’s spine, “Anyway, it had to have been hours later cause the sun was up when mama let me out after she found me. Nobody told her where I was, she spent the night playing cards with our aunties and some friends. She didn’t even say anything to him. Just pulled me out and hugged me tight.”

Akira felt this sudden darkness take over and Naomi felt it too. The room felt smaller and smaller by the minute, “Try as I might, no matter how hard I tried being quiet and obedient, it wasn’t enough for him. Every little thing I did made him angry.” Akira looked up at Naomi, whose eyes filled with their own tears, “That was my favorite picture. Just the three of us. I don’t remember that day but I do remember feeling safe with the two of you. You know I looked through grandmother’s pictures and after age 10, I think I'm only in five? All the important pictures, the birthday parties, weddings, holidays…I’m not there. It’s as if I never existed…” The choked voice grew quieter, softer. Naomi burst into tears while Akira disassociated completely, staring at a blank wall ahead. When Akira came to, she grew aware of Naomi hugging her. This time, Akira hugged her back, although hesitantly.

“I’m so sorry I didn’t do more. I should’ve done more.” Naomi sobbed.

“What could you do, Naomi, you were a child just like me.” Akira patted her back, “Listen,” Akira pulled away at arm's length, “I never had your strength. In some ways, I’m a lot like mama in that way. You are strong enough to tell them your boundaries. And if they cannot accept it, then that’s their problem, not yours. If you want your ceremony the way you and Jackson want it then do it. It’s your night, not theirs.” Naomi nodded then hugged Akira again. They sat for another hour until Naomi had to leave for a dress fitting. The darkness stayed with Akira for the rest of the day, and she couldn’t shake it. All the memories she blocked out started flooding back to her, so much so that she couldn’t stop her crying. With a shaky breath, Akira called the only person she could think of, “Joonie?”

On the other end of the line, Namjoon could barely hear Akira’s voice as the Bangtan meeting room filled both his and the Wang pack grew rowdy. Yoongi caught sight of Namjoon’s concerned face as he tried exiting the room unnoticed. The rest of his members were in deep conversation, but he too slipped out unnoticed. Namjoon slightly paced out in the hall just as Yoongi closed the door behind him, “Babygirl I need you to breathe and tell me what’s wrong.” The sweet nickname alerted him to you, ‘Omega is upset! Is she hurt?!’.

“Stay where you are ok? I’m coming to get you.” Namjoon hung up then pulled his car keys out of his pocket. There was no way Yoongi wasn’t going with,

“I’m coming with you.” He knew his wolf wouldn’t settle until he laid eyes on you. Not in the mood for arguing, Namjoon said nothing as Yoongi followed him to the car. They wouldn’t normally leave without telling everyone where they were going, but the moment your scared voice traveled through Namjoon’s ears, there was no time for thinking. He just simply wanted to get to you. “What happened?!”

“I don’t know, she was crying and all she said was that she didn’t want to be alone.” Namjoon sped through traffic to reach the outer city limits to get to Akira at the urging of his wolf. He didn’t care how many laws he broke, as soon as he heard her cries, he fought off every instinct that wanted to run to her in his wolf form. After about thirty minutes , he finally made it to the Batiste estate and he entered the code to the gate, and drove past Akira’s old home to her grandmother’s. The minute Akira heard the car pull up, she ran outside to meet Namjoon. He didn’t even shut off the car before climbing out of the driver’s side and running smack into her, pulling her into his arms until her legs crossed around his waist.

“Joonie!” Akira buried her face in his neck, the tears never ending. Yoongi slowly climbed out of the car as he watched Namjoon cradle her to his body. One arm locked around her middle, holding her in place while the other tried brushing her tears away, “Shh, I’m here now Akira. And look, even Yoongi came along.” Akira looked up from the crook of his neck and stared at Yoongi. Yoongi’s heart broke seeing her face slowly redden and her tiny nose got the worst of it. He walked over and Akira let go of Namjoon and started crying harder once Yoongi held her. He kissed the side of her head, cheek bruising against her hair, “Tell us what happened, sweetheart.”

Akira tried calming her breathing as Yoongi wiped her face, “I-I c-cou—couldn’t stop.” Akira blew out a breath as she tried to focus, “I couldn’t stop thinking about my family and realized how much abuse I put up with. It wasn’t just my father, it-it—.” Akira could feel herself about to cry again. Yoongi shushed her again, pulling her closer. His calming scent pushed out more as he tried to calm her. Akira tried breathing on her own, the hyperventilating hiccups slowed dramatically. “I can’t be here right now, please, please—I don’t wanna be here!”

“It’s ok, you don’t have to be. Get what you need so we can go.” Namjoon had already decided he wasn’t leaving her alone. Akira never let go of Yoongi's hand. He followed her up until she stopped at her bedroom door; a sour look still remained on her face as she grabbed a sweater, house keys, and wrote a small note for her grandmother later. She then grabbed her phone and hurried out the door. By the time they arrived back at Bangtan home, Akira was fast asleep. Namjoon carried her in and slept on the couch for hours,“She’s been sleeping for a long time, is she supposed to sleep this long? Should we wake her?”

Around Akira, the Bangtan pack stood, hovering quietly as Jungkook worried about her sleeping. The slightest shiver had Jin throwing a blanket over immediately. The meeting long over once they realized Namjoon and Yoongi left. They watched Akira snuggle further into the couch, twisting slightly. Namjoon sighed,

“She was really upset earlier so no, don’t wake her.” Jungkook nodded, listening to his hyung. “I didn’t realize how deep her trauma with her family was.”

“None of us did.” Hoseok replied, “Whatever this is, it extends much deeper than her father’s reasons.”

“I have no doubt her brothers are behind it.” Taehyung added as he watched Yoongi lift Akira’s head up and place it on his lap. One by one they each sat, surrounding her, “Especially Malik, I can feel it.”

“Why do you suppose they do it? Her siblings, I mean.” Jimin questioned, worry brushed across his face as he watched Akira frown in her sleep. The tiny whimpers alerted them, making Yoongi rub her shoulder.

“Fear of rejection from their father most likely.” Jin shrugged, “It happens with a more dominant alpha, they will scare submission into their pack. He probably uses Akira as an example of what will happen if they don’t submit. Her being human was just an added bonus.” Jin surmised, watching as Akira settled against Yoongi, curling her body further into a ball.

“I wonder what prompted this attack.” Jimin worried.

“Her sister Naomi was there, I could smell her.” Yoongi replied, “Maybe they were talking and got into it, I don’t know, but whatever it was, it left Akira crying.” He ran his fingers across her now tear stained cheek. Akira snuggled closer, feeling how warm he was.

“I swear this family of hers leaves so much damage in their wake.” Jimin groaned, annoyed. “I know it’s selfish but maybe when she’s with us, we can convince her to cut them off.”

“I have no doubt she would.” Jin spoke calmly, “Doesn’t seem like it would take much effort on her end at this point.”

“So how do we fix it?” Taehyung asked.

Jin sighed, “That, I’m not sure of.”

— — —

“What do you think, guys? Do I look good enough for my date with Jimin?”

Akira was all excited for her date with Jimin this warm Friday evening. After spending time in their den, Akira felt as though the anguish she felt days before were gone. She had never been to their home, but she instantly felt safe and comfortable. It made her thrilled for her date, “I hope it’s not too much.”

He wanted her dressed up so he sent a dress and heels for her. Akira had never been in designer clothing so beautiful that it felt feather light on her skin. She couldn’t believe that he had such a good eye for details, getting her measurements just right. She twirled around in her dress when Namjoon asked, giving him, Taehyung, Hoseok, Yoongi, Jin and Jungkook a show. The dress was a deep navy floor length dress with a sweetheart neckline, butterfly sleeves, and two long slits near the thighs. The dress hugged her curves, making her statuesque.

“Fuck me she looks incredible” Yoongi murmured deeply, his accent sounding richer through the phone, making Jin swat his arm. Akira tilted her head, frowning a little,

“What? You guys don’t like it? Jimin picked it out for me…” Akira’s frown deepened, twiddling with nails.

“No, babygirl you look stunning, truly.” Namjoon assured her, making the others agree immediately.

“Jimin did an amazing job, fuck.” Jungkook tilted his head, trying to see all of Akira’s curves. Taehyung rolled his eyes before smacking Jungkook upside his head, making him howl and Akira gasp,

“Don’t objectify her, fool.” Jungkook pouted in the camera, making Akira pout as well.

“Nooo, it’s ok Kookie, thank you for the compliment.” By now, the familiarity between the eight of them had grown, making nicknames a common thing. Akira’s nicknames ranged from babygirl to jagiya, all sweet and endearing. “I feel kinda nervous. I always feel nervous on our dates.”

“Why, you’ve been on four now.” Hoseok laughed, making Akira giggle.

“It’s because it’s a different feeling with each of you. It’s a first date each time. Each one feels special to me…” Akira stared at the floor. Each man blushed at her sweet words, even Jin and Jungkook, who have yet to have their dates with her. They couldn’t wait their turn.

“Well I think Jimin will be nothing but a gentleman with you, and he’ll be very excited for tonight as well.” Jin expressed, bowing slightly. Before Akira could reply, a bubbly response waiting to be spilled, she—along with the guys—heard a loud bang; the sound of a door crashing made Akira jump with fright. The force rattled the walls, nearly making her phone fall off the ledge of the full length mirror in her room, “Akira, what’s going?’ What was that sound?!” Namjoon panicked.

Akira stuttered, “I-I d-don—I don’t know—!”

“AKIRA!!!”

Akira’s eyes widened as recognition struck her. She knew that voice. Knew it well. “Father?” Her voice dropped to a whisper. Akira was all alone, her grandmother out with her mother, trying to fix final touches for Naomi’s ceremony. What could he possibly want with Akira if he washed his hands of her?

“Akira, get out of the house!” Hoseok screamed over FaceTime.

“We’re on our way to you, just get out of the house!” Jungkook screamed, leaving the camera’s view.

“AKIRA I KNOW YOU’RE HERE! I KNOW YOU CAN HEAR ME, I CAN SMELL YOU!” Her father Joseph growled, holding back his wolf.

“Baby, if you can hear me, I’m going to mute us, you just keep us on the phone!” Namjoon urged her. Shakily, Akira grabbed her phone and nodded. She quickly sent a message to her grandmother, before the door to her room blew off, splintering at the seams, making her scream. Joseph and Malik stood at her doorway; her father visibly shaking with anger.

On the other end of the phone, her pack froze in horror at her scream. They could hear Joseph shouting obscenely at her, raging at something that he felt was her fault, “YOU HAD TO RUIN YOUR SISTER’S MOMENT, HUH?! YOU COULDN’T LET HER HAVE A CEREMONY WORTHY OF GODS?!” Akira backed away from him, nearly tripping from her dress if it wasn’t for Malik grabbing her roughly. He almost looked ashamed but it was quickly masked with cold green eyes.

“Ah! Malik let go of me! I don't know what you’re talking about!” “Akira’s phone dropped to the floor, still on call with Namjoon. Once Jimin was told what was happening, he quickly got dressed from his shower and raced downstairs to join them in their van. Jin drove, racing through the streets, passing through red lights to get to her. Meanwhile, Hoseok flinched at the sound of Akira’s screams as Joseph slapped her. “Please, I don’t know what’s happening!” Akira cried.

“This, you devious little piece of shit!” Joseph pushed a piece of paper in her face, nearly bruising her nose, “YOU’RE THE FUCKING REASON NAOMI RAN OFF WITH JACKSON! YOU ARE A CURSE ON THIS FAMILY, I FUCKING SWEAR!”

Tears trailed down her face, hiccups escaped as Malik threw her down on the floor. Akira picked up the paper, her eyes widening at each line;

Dear Father,

I know that you and mama and Jackson’s parents made this grand event for us. While we’re grateful and appreciative, it’s what neither of us wanted. I have always been a simple woman, and have never craved attention-seeking moments like this family does, time and time again. After talking with Akira, she made me realize that my vision for our crossing over ceremony was what I always wanted. And that my voice mattered, even when drowned out by you and mama. She is the sole reason Jackson and I decided we want to do what’s best for us. Her belief in me made me realize I have a voice, and I intend to use it. Jackson and I will not continue with the spectacle that is this crossing over ceremony. In a way, we’ve decided to elope. Please don’t be angry.

Naomi.

Akira couldn’t believe what she was reading. Curse her trusting nature, she hated herself for giving Naomi the benefit of the doubt. She now realizes that the one trick Betas always had was to be cunning. They always planned ahead, every step meticulous. She had been used as a pawn the moment Naomi got wind of their parents’ ceremonial plans. The ultimate scapegoat that fueled their father’s hatred of Akira. “No…N-No, father I knew nothing about this, I swear—AH!” A punch landed square to her jaw as Joseph socked her. Akira tries crawling away, begging him to not hurt her, “Father, I didn’t tell her to run, I swear!”

“I am no longer your father, you little runt! From now on, the name Batiste is stripped from you! You had every intention of causing trouble, Naomi wouldn’t lie about this!” Akira gasped as Joseph reached out and grabbed her by her hair. Her cries echoed on the other end of the phone that Namjoon nearly crushes, trying desperately to control his wolf.

“Even with all the lights we speed through, we won’t get there in time.” Yoongi growled, eyes flickering their dark brown to blood red. Each passing second, they could hear Akira scream in agony. The sound of flesh colliding with flesh; deep groans escaping from her as her father did who knows what to her.

Meanwhile, Akira laid on the floor, curled in a ball as she tried to ward off another kick to the ribs. Joseph Batiste was angrier than he had ever been, pissed beyond all belief. Blood trickled from her lips as she tried shielding herself from his and Malik’s attacks. Her ears were ringing, leaving her slightly disoriented. With a little bit of strength, Akira tried crawling to the door, but Malik stopped her, stepping on her dress. The fabric ripped, making the one of the slits widen and stretch. “You know, since the day you were born, you have been a stain on my life. A human shit stain that’s been the bane of my existence—I knew I should’ve taken you out to the woods and left your ass for dead the day you didn’t present as a wolf!” Spittle flew from Joseph’s lips as he got in Akira’s face. Akira cried once more, whimpering then wailing, shouting her innocence, “I never told Naomi to run! I never told her to disobey you, please, plea—!” Akira gagged as Joseph grabbed her by the throat, punching her and slapping her until she nearly fought unconsciousness.

“YOU’RE A FUCKING LIAR! AND WHAT’S WORSE IS YOU’RE A FUCKING MISTAKE!” Akira tiredly let go “I was perfectly content with the four children I had, but no, your mother just had to have another! I should’ve made her abort your sorry ass!” Another slap made blood splatter onto the floor. Weakly, Akira started going limp. Joseph took his rage out on her, kicking her and slapping her repeatedly until crying stopped. Blood smeared on the floor and on her tattered dress; contusions and scratches littered her body. Joseph wouldn’t stop until Malik stopped him,

“Father, that’s enough, we have to go.” Neither realizing that Akira’s phone had scattered beneath the bed, still on call with the Bangtan pack. They were stunned into silence; their faces twisted in horror as Jin had to pull over from driving, becoming sick at the sounds of gurgling agony and cracking of bones. Joseph had beaten Akira before, but never to this extent. Never to the point where she was on the verge of losing consciousness. Even Malik had seen enough.

Joseph huffed and puffed like the big bad wolf he claimed to be as Akira laid motionless on the floor, “May you remember the day you no longer remained a Batiste. You are dead to me.” He seethed, giving her one last kick, this time to the face. Malik flinched, turning away. The wet squelch of blood pouring onto the floor made him gag, “Father let’s go, grandmother will be home soon.”

Joseph and Malik left the room, leaving Akira laying on the floor. Her gurgled gasps as she struggled to breathe was the only thing Bangtan could hear as Yoongi took over driving, racing to her home. He knew they’d make it there before her grandmother, who they unfortunately had to explain all this to. Once they finally made it to the compound, Yoongi quickly typed in the code and sped past several houses to get to Akira. He couldn’t even park without the guys jumping out immediately, racing through the broken front door. The smell of blood alerted them, making them call out for Akira. Jungkook raced down a hallway until he reached the doorway of her room, recoiling back with a loud curse before calling for Namjoon, “JOON!”

Each head popped in Jungkook’s direction, racing down the hall until they were met with a gruesome sight. Body tangled on the floor in a small pool of her own blood, Akira laid gasping. A small white letter a few feet away from her. Dress torn and stained; the strong coppery smell permeated the room.

“Oh my fuck!” Namjoon cursed, reeling away before turning back to enter the room. He kneeled down in front of Akira, her line of vision temporarily blurred. She could sense a presence but couldn’t see them, making her tense and whimper loudly, “Shhhh, it’s us beautiful, it’s us.” He whispered delicately. Tears blurred in her eyes but no sound other than a whimper could escape. Her throat raw from being squeezed too tight. Eyes swelling and blurring over to where she couldn’t make out who was in front of her.

Suddenly a car pulled up, “Sounds like her grandmother pulled up.” Taehyung uttered coldly.

“Akira! Akira, little wolf where are—oh my god!” Her grandmother’s gasp was horrified at what she saw.

“Careful, we don’t know if he severed anything.” Hoseok told Namjoon as he went to pick up her body. Usually never one to show his emotions, Namjoon fought back tears as his mate laid on the floor in pain. Carefully? He grabbed hold of her hand,

“Baby, can you hear me?” He asked gently. Shakily, Akira squeezed his hand. “Can you speak?” Her hand remained lax. “Can you wiggle your toes?” They watched as her toes slowly curled from both feet.”

“I can smell her father and Malik all through this room. They did this, didn’t they?” Her grandmother questioned, eyes glimmering faintly of a purple hue. With bowed heads, some with tears in their eyes, the men nodded yes. The sudden rush of steps had them all in a tense stance as a shrill scream left Miriam's lips. Dealing with final touches for Naomi’s ceremony, Miriam asked Genevieve to tag along and to naturally see how Akira was doing. When Genevieve received the message she got, Miriam responded quickly by hopping in the car with her, no questions asked. It was her daughter that was in danger after all. “Oh god, who did this?!”

“Take a wild guess.” Jungkook turned coldly, staring furiously at her. Jin held him back, telling him to calm down. Namjoon gently placed one hand under Akira’s neck. Her whimpers grew louder as pain shot through her body. While Namjoon made a move to pick her up, Hoseok saw a glimmer of white through his bloodshot eyes. He picked up the piece of paper, corners stained and smudged with blood. He read over it, cursing under his breath as he realized what had happened,

“Did you know about this?” He questioned her mother, turning to her with the most foul expression he could give, “Hm? Did you know that Naomi and Jackson eloped?!!”

“What?!” Miriam baulkes, snatching the letter out of his hand. Miriam and Genevieve read it carefully, anger flashing before their eyes before the realization hit that Naomi’s leaving triggered Joseph’s anger. “S-She eloped…She ran away?!”

“We need to get her to a hospital, now.” Namjoon urged.

— — —

“Three broken ribs, orbital bone fracture, sprained wrist and ankle, plus, surprisingly, a mild concussion. Not to mention a broken nose and a swollen larynx from her throat being nearly crushed—we’re lucky you got here in time or the internal bleeding could’ve been worse.”

The doctor looked around the hospital room as the saddest expressions he'd seen filled the space. Genevieve held her granddaughter’s hand. Yoongi paced the floor, restless, while everyone found a seat where they could. Namjoon sat on the side of Akira, watching her rest. Miriam sat outside the room, crying, as if not believing her husband could do such a thing. It had been hours since Akira came out of surgery, and the worse had yet to come.

“You said she’s your mate?” The doctor asked, looking at Namjoon.

“Yes.” All seven men answered, surprising the doctor. He sighed,

“You said she was attacked? Why hasn’t she been mated then?”

“Yes, she was randomly attacked and she’s a human. We can’t bite her, plus our crossing ceremony wasn’t until the end of the month.” Namjoon answered aggressively, already agitated by the doctor’s questioning, trying to avoid the actual truth of the matter. Namjoon wanted to handle Joseph on his own, no police involved. He delicately moved hair out of Akira’s face, “We followed the rules. She should’ve been with us soon enough.”

“Given the extent of her injuries, you’ll need to keep an eye on her a lot more once she’s released. We’ve also irrigated her eyes so that she could see, some debris was in there. Her vision might be hazy for a couple of days.” After the doctor explained the aftercare Akira would need, he left. Silence engulfed them. The steady beep of the heart monitor droned on as they breathing labor either withheld or steadied.

“She’s gonna be ok.” Jungkook tried to rally his mind with his heart, willing for a positive outcome as tears welled in his eyes, “She’ll be ok.”

“Yeah pup,” Jin whispered, his hand clapping Jungkook’s back, “She’ll be fine, it’s alright.” Jin pulled him into a hug as his lips trembled, tears finally breaking for a release.

“She’s living with us once she’s released from the hospital. It’s not up for discussion.” Namjoon spoke calmly, yet there was an eerie edge to his voice. A darkness that only his pack understood. He spoke directly to Genevieve, “And your son? He’s as good as dead.”

Genevieve didn’t flinch, “You see me stopping you?” She muttered back, “Whatever happens now, it’s out of my hands.” She turned to her granddaughter, a steely coldness to her voice, “Because if he isn’t dealt with, I’ll take the motherfucka out myself.” The son she raised was no longer there. Any trace of her husband, lost within him.

The men all stood around, shocked and bewildered. They had never seen a mother turn on their own child before. Everyone assumed that Genevieve was a sweet, doting grandmother, but no one knew that she ran everything. “Leave everyone else to me.” Genevieve Batiste was an OG. And her son forgot who he was fucking with, “Don’t worry, little wolf. It’s being handled.” She leaned over and whispered to Akira. Kissing the top of her head, Genevieve then stood straight, grabbed her bag, and exited the room, the men quickly moving out her way. Jimin checked the hallway, seeing Genevieve and Miriam leaving.

“You really think she’s gonna let her own son get killed?” Taehyung questioned, shock and confusion written on his face.

“For Akira, she’d burn the earth.” Yoongi muttered quietly.

They all stared at Akira in silence. Jin slowly walked to the other side of the bed, resting his hands on the bed. They watched as her chest rose and fell softly. Concern blanketed them at her quiet wheezing, as if she was struggling to breathe. Once the beatings began, Akira did the only thing she knew how to do, and it was to disassociate. She stopped fighting. She had given up and let Joseph take control. And since then, she’s been unconscious ever since. She could disappear and feel safe in her own dreams because it was there, Joseph could not hurt her. Malik couldn’t hurt her. Naomi couldn’t hurt her.

You don't miss the blush that spreads across his cheeks, the subtle pink shade making your heart beat even faster.

“Well, I um, I've been thinking,” he swallows hard, and your eyes are drawn to the movement of his Adam's apple bobbing up and down. “You’ve been spending a lot of time with us, and I just wanted to clear something up-”

“Wait–” you cut him off, picturing the last time he was over - you sharing their pizza, sitting next to Yoongi on the sofa and watching them play game - disappointment floods through you at the realisation of what he's about to say, “I get it, you don't like me hanging around you guys all the time. It's fine, I won't crowd you all, and I'll make myself scarce from now on.”

You attempt to hide your dejected tone but are unsure if your acting skills are concealing the sorrow you feel numbing your insides.

“No!” he replies, clearly alarmed. His eyes popping as he strides over, closing the distance between you. “That's not it at all. I like that you spend time with us.” He admits before clearing his throat awkwardly.

“Ok…” you hesitate, mind racing once again, “so what, then?”

He takes a deep breath. “I, I wanted to ask…”

He takes a tentative step towards you, now so close you can feel the heat from his body and you swallow involuntarily, the loud sound filling the thick silence. When you meet his eyes, there's an intensity that takes your breath away.

“I've been sensing something…” he starts, eyes travelling down to your mouth as you lick your lips nervously. “...something between us…” he continues.

Your heart stammers wildly at his words, unable to form a coherent thought with his proximity.

“...and I need you to tell me if it's just all in my head. If it is, I'll leave you alone and never mention this again.” He watches you, picking his nails anxiously as he waits for a reaction. The words die in your throat when you open your mouth to speak, as you pinch your bottom lip and roll it between your fingers, while your mind races for a response.

He reaches out to tuck a stray strand of hair behind your ear. “So…is it?”

Swallowing again, you manage to whisper out, “Is it, what?”

He smiles sweetly at you, “Is it just in my head?”

This is the moment you've waited for. Your chance to confess and no longer house your feelings secretly inside. But as you stand here, so close you can now feel his breath on your face, there are no words that sound right. Nothing that is good enough. So instead, you simply shake your head.

His eyes light up, that gummy smile forming again. “Really?”

This is your moment, but words aren't enough, you need to show him what he means to you.

Grabbing the collar of his jacket you gently pull him down to you, as you lift yourself on tiptoes to press your lips against his.

There's a moment of surprise, more at yourself for having the courage to do what you've thought about for months. Relishing the softness of his kiss, there was a tenderness in his urgency that mesmerised you. A silent understanding of feelings you couldn't yet put into words.

Before long the urgency grows, as his arms wind eagerly around your waist and lift you off the floor completely. Instinctively, you wrap your legs around him, with a fire in your belly burning so bright all of you is throbbing with a searing heat. His mouth moves against yours hungrily and you respond with hands fisting into his hair as he staggers quickly across the living room. Kicking the door to your bedroom shut as he enters, hands kneading your bare buttocks that are now poking out of your shorts.

Yoongi strides over to the bed, sitting as soon as his thighs touch the edge of the mattress, a frantic mess of hands removing his jacket as he pulls off your hoodie, while you straddle him.

“Wait, wait,” he gasps, pulling away slightly. “I need to clarify something.”

Your body tenses, anxiety plaguing you at the thought of the next words out of his mouth.

He takes a deep breath and hooks a finger under your chin, forcing your eyes back up to him. “I don't want this to be just sex.” He hesitates, watching your reaction carefully, “I am yours wholeheartedly, and I want you to be mine.”

Your heart swells rapidly in your chest, so large it feels ready to explode. The words you've dreamt of are finally being said and this time, you find yourself too.

“Take me, I've been yours for a long time.”

His eyes burn into yours so fiercely it sets your mind, body and soul alight under his doting gaze.

Your mouths connect again, a wild clash of tongues and teeth, as you press your body against his. Grinding your hips down on him, his erection rubs against the perfect spot, and makes you moan against his mouth.

His lips begin to explore your neck, creating a trail of wet kisses that light a fire in their wake.

“I need you inside me, Yoongi,” you whine. “Please.”

You can’t bear to be teased, or to wait to feel him; you've waited long enough.

Taking action, you slide yourself backwards slightly, your hands shaking with excitement as you fumble at his jeans, yanking open the button and reaching into his boxers to set his thick, solid cock free. You pull your shorts aside, and slide yourself down on him, as he pushes his face against your chest, your breasts muffling his groan. As he stretches you open, the feeling, painful yet delicious, only makes you more eager but he holds your hips firmly keeping you in place on his lap, fingers almost bruising the skin.

“I won't last long,” he pants. “I've waited so long for you.”

Placing a gentle kiss against his lips, you begin to rock yourself back and forth. “That's ok, baby, neither will I.”

With every swirl of your hips, he hits the perfect spot inside you, stealing the breath from your lungs as you grow closer to your release.

“Fuck,” he moans, the sound arousing you beyond belief, “you feel so good around me.”

His hands go under your bra, groping your breasts softly and rolling your nipples between his fingers, the sensation causing a jolt of pleasure straight to your core.

You’re so focused on him; on every lust-filled gaze of his that lands on your face and the way his eyes stay focused on your sex as you move; every sensual noise he makes in pleasure, knowing you're the one causing it. And every part of your skin that his hands or lips touch sends electricity rippling through you.

His hands grip at your backside and make their way down to your entrance, fingers touching your slick where he's sliding in and out of you.

“You're so wet for me.” He gasps, bringing a finger up and sucking the arousal off.

Your hips move faster as you chase your end, and you realise how much this quiet man whom you adore enjoys talking dirty.

“Keep going, baby,” he says, as his mouth explores your neck, sending goosebumps cascading down your body.

“You're riding me so good, fuck!” He throws his head back, veins bulging at his neck as it's clear he's struggling to hold on. That sight alone has you coming undone, spasming wildly around him.

“Yes, that's it.” His head snaps forward as he watches you writhe in ecstasy above him. “Come around this dick.”

As your greedy cunt squeezes him with each wave of pleasure, he stares in awe and when they subside, you return back to earth and can focus on him once again. The strained look on his face and the way he's biting his bottom lip shows he's eager to let go.

“You need to come, baby?” you ask, and he nods frantically.

You slide yourself off and watch the disappointment contort his features. His eyebrows knit together, full of sorrow, but his pained expression soon disappears when you drop to the floor on your knees and take him in your mouth instead.

“Oh, fuck.” he cries out, thrusting up inside you, matching the rhythm of your bobbing head. He grabs a fistful of your bed sheets with one hand and the other gently holds the back of your head. “That's it, take all of me, like such a good girl.” he whispers between pants.“I'm-I…don't stop, fuck, I'm gonna come.”

He releases into your mouth, the salty, sweet taste takes over your senses, as rope after rope of the warm, thick liquid goes straight down your throat. When he's empty, you pull yourself off with a pop, making his legs twitch, the sight amusing you, as he throws himself back on your bed. His arms flared out either side of him and breathing hard. You climb up next to him, and watch the movement of his chest as it rises and falls. He looks over at you, grinning, cheeks tinted red.

“Don't tell me you've gone shy on me now?” you say, giggling as you stroke the hair from his face.

He sits up on his elbows, leaning up to gently clasp your chin in his hand as he stares at you. His eyes are full of adoration and awe and it reawakens the butterflies in your stomach, sending them swarming into chaos inside you. He presses his lips to yours, no longer desperate or needy but full of a promise to you.

God, he’s so handsome…

You can’t help but stare at Jin as he sings, his eyes closed as he belts out those glorious vocals.

This is the third show you’ve been to; the second as Jin’s...girlfriend…

You don’t even realize you’re grinning like a dope until Wooyoung bumps your shoulder to knock you out of your daze.

“Has he gotten to you too?” He teases and you huff at him, trying to keep your face neutral as you roll your eyes.

“I’m really into the music, he’s a great singer, Woo.”  

“His guitar playing is great too, Yoongi has been teaching him for awhile and he’s improved so much.  He used to never play before during shows.”  Jimin adds, and you smile as you glance back at the man in question.

His eyes meet yours over the crowd and you have to fight back a blush, covering your goofy smile by taking a sip of your drink.

You listen and nod along to the guys chatting about friends from out of town coming back soon, pretending to listen to them as you keep watching the show.

Now that you’ve accepted how you feel about him, it’s become harder to ignore the little taunts from the guys. 

Tae’s suspicious look has you paying more attention to the conversation as the show continues.

You know you should tell them soon, it feels weird to hide the relationship from your closest friends.  

For some reason, as much as you want to be completely open about everything, there is a certain little thrill to keeping it quiet over the last week.  

It’s still new, and we’re still exploring this, you think; it's been really nice to have a quiet beginning together without the scrutiny and judgement of your friends.

Not that they would be against anything of course; more so to commit to taking it slowly.

It won’t be like before, you reassure yourself.

This isn’t a secret affair, not like…

There’s a lingering worry deep inside of you that you’ve acknowledged; the fear that this may end abruptly along with an instinctual need to preserve yourself just in case.

Jin’s not like that, he truly likes me.

His understanding and patience only makes that more clear.

It’s crazy what talking openly about your feelings and relationship has done for you.

You smile as you continue to enjoy the show, enjoying how the girls go completely crazy over him.

Oh I know, ladies, I know….

You can’t help but appreciate their taste.

By the time you’re parting ways, it’s gotten late and both you and Jin wave as everyone goes off in their own directions.

It’s quiet between you as you start walking back, stealing glances at one another for a few moments before Jin finally turns to look back where everyone disappeared.

“Ugh, finally-” He says, immediately reaching out to take your hand and tug you close to him.

“Impatient much, Jin?” You giggle, melting into him as he wraps an arm around you.

“You’re so cold…” he observes, wrapping both arms around you as you walk.

“Isn’t it awkward to walk like this?” You tease him, and he just scoffs at you.

“As long as you’re staying warm, nothing is too awkward for me.”  

Heat rushes to your cheeks at his words and you can’t help but stop and turn to wrap your arms around his waist to hug him tightly.

The streets are quiet, and only a street lamp illuminates the area around you as he smiles softly down at you.  

“I feel like we’re two kids disobeying our parents and sneaking around.” You mumble as you press your face into his chest.

“Hey wanna come make out at my place?” He jokes, wiggling his eyebrows at you as you look up at him.

“Actually…yeah.” You respond, and his gaze is drawn to your lip as you bite it in anticipation.

“Say less.”

You let out a loud laugh as he grabs your hand and starts pulling you along in a run.

“Jin!”

“Hey, you offered!” 

Your stomach flips at his excitement, unable to deny your own enthusiasm.

By the time he’s tugging you into his apartment and the door is closing, you’re both winded and giggling as you try to catch your breath.

Before you even finish kicking your shoes off, Jin is enveloping you in his arms and looking down at you with a little pout on his full lips.

You grin up at him as he walks you backwards in his arms, doing your best to not trip as he holds onto you.

“So dramatic-” You laugh, and he squishes his face up as he lets out a little whining noise.

“Wanted to kiss you all night-” he grumps as he leans down to brush his lips over yours.

“Why are you so cute-” You begin, but you’re cut off as he presses his lips firmly against yours.

“I'll show you cute.” He hums as he parts from your mouth momentarily to tumble you both onto the couch.  

“Oof-Jin!” You giggle as he does his best not to collapse his entire weight on top of you.

“Mm, sorry… shh,” his mouth is back on yours before you can protest and your arms instinctively wrap around his neck as he plies your lips open.

He settles himself on top of you, keeping himself slightly hovering over you as he deepens the kiss.  

A shiver races up your spine as his hand cups your cheek, using his thumb to trace circles right beneath your ear.  

A small moan leaves your throat and your legs part in reflex as your fingers tangle into his hair.

His husky moan as he takes a breath has you all but vibrating underneath him before he’s turning his head to come at you from another angle.

Your entire body heats as he settles more of his weight on you, his thighs pushing yours open.  

The sensation of his obvious excitement suddenly pressing into your thigh causes you to gasp into his mouth as you involuntarily clench around nothing.

Your cheeks burn as you feel your panties soak with wet heat, lifting your hips up against him without thinking.

“Oh god-” he breathes out as his lips part from yours, his nose almost touching yours as he looks down at you with those gorgeous chocolate eyes.

The sight of his lust glazed stare has your fingers tightening in his hair and he lets out a shaking groan as he presses kisses to the side of your mouth.

His gaze doesn’t leave your face as he tentatively adjusts his body, using his hips to grind his arousal against your aching core.

“Jin-” Your moan has him halting as his eyes close, wincing as he seems to try to control himself.

“Sorry...I should stop.” His voice is shaking and you can feel him trembling against you.

Swallowing, you tug his hair gently, forcing him to open his eyes, then you lift your hips up against him.

The moan he lets out is downright sinful as his entire body jerks, and his free hand grabs the pillow behind you to clench it tightly.

“Wait...are you…are you okay with…this?” His tone is strained and his words clipped.

“Jin…look at me…” You whisper, combing your fingers through his dark locks.  

You watch his Adam's apple bob as he swallows heavily, then his beautiful eyes are on yours.  

“Does it feel good?” You ask him softly, and he nods immediately.

“Yeah?” You take his hand from your face and slowly bring it down to your chest, encouraging his palm to skim over your clothed breast.

“Oh fuck-” He whimpers.

His response only adds to your desire as he licks his lips and his fingers cup your tit.  

You can feel your nipple tighten against his palm, and it’s obvious he feels it as well as his eyes dilate.

You let out your own whine as his erection throbs against your crotch, and you wrap your legs around his and lift your hips up against him.

He buries his face into your neck as he moans out your name, his hips jerking forward to grind himself into you.

“Jin-” You gasp as the friction of your clothes rubs into your clit and your entire body shudders.

“Dont…don’t keep saying my name…like that or-” He keens and you can’t help but say it again.

Suddenly his lips are on your pulse, this tongue tracing the line of your neck and he’s rocking his hips into you.

“Jin…oh Jin…” You encourage, your hand gripping the back of his shirt as he ruts against your clothed core.

“Fuck-” He gasps as he slips hand down under your shirt and pushes your bra from your breast so he can clutch at the bare flesh.

The sensation causes you to let out a lewd moan as you throw your head back and his grunts and groans suddenly fill the room.  

His reaction to you sends your mind reeling, and you can barely breathe as a tense heat builds up in your lower abdomen.  

The bruising crush of his rigid clothed cock against your clit is making you dizzy and you clutch onto his shirt, all but clawing at his back as you feel your impending orgasm threatening to overtake you.

“Oh fuck, oh god, wait-wait-” he cries out yet his hips seem to have a mind of their own and don’t seem to want to wait.

“Jin, oh god…Jin..Jin-I’m- I’m gonna-” You gasp, burying your face into his shoulder as he starts letting out the sexiest whimpers and moans.

Your climax slams into you, tearing through your sanity as bright lights dance behind your closed eyelids.  

A burning heat pools in your panties as his body shudders and jerks against you, his desperate cries and erratic grinding only serving to prolong the sensation as your cheeks blaze.

His lips press into your neck in sloppy, humid kisses as he breathes against your damp skin, and you laugh softly as his body is hit with a fit of tremors randomly.

“Shh…don’t move.” He hums, burying his face into your neck.

“Jin, did you-” 

“SHH!” He says, nipping your neck, causing you to giggle, “Don’t say it.”

“You did..you came in your-” 

His mouth is on yours before you can finish, suppressing your laughter as he attempts to avoid the truth.

“Jin-”

Each time, he’s hushing you with another kiss before you’re both almost crying from post orgasm giggles.

“So hot.” You whisper in his ear as he finally settles on you, pressing his face into your chest.

“Hmm? What is?” He asks, glancing up at you before he adjusts so you’re lying side by side and he’s petting your hair back.

“You cumming in your-” 

“HSSSHH!” He teases, pushing a finger to your lips.

“It’s hot.  I…I think it’s really hot…” You hum, nipping at his finger.

His cheeks and neck get adorably red as he looks anywhere but at you.

“Well..I mean..if you like it…” He grates out.

“I mean, I came in mine too, to be fair.” You admit.

He groans at your words, biting his lip before letting out a raspberry at you.

“Less messy, though.” He pouts.

“I dunno…I’m-nevermind.” You halt, not wanting to get too graphic.

His hooded eyes study you and you have to take a deep breath as he looks at you like that. 

Like he wants to make another mess.

Resist the urge to find out how big of a mess, you chastise yourself.

“I’m sorry if that was too much.” He whispers, leaning in to nudge his nose against yours.

You shake your head, pressing a peck to his lips.

“I…I liked it..it wasn’t too much.  But I should go home soon.  Early mornings for us both.” You remind him.

“Hmm…just one more kiss then…” he whispers, leaning in.

It’s always one more kiss, but you’re not protesting.

“Good morning, beautiful.  Excited for tonight?” 

Jin’s message greets you as you awaken, and you smile and kick your feet.

Even after two weeks of these morning texts, you are still pleasantly surprised by them.

We’re dating, you think, giggling like a schoolgirl.

You’d think I’ve never dated before.

Since that night, you’ve continued on like normal with him; meeting for coffee, messaging, and finally going out to have casual dates.  

Well, “normal” minus the small little make out sessions.

He’s been so patient with you, always noticing when things seem to be getting too heated and you are both grateful and frustrated at his consideration.

Did I shoot myself in the foot with that? You wonder, not for the first time.

You’re definitely very attracted to him, and despite his patience, you are very well aware that it’s mutual.

But you know deep down that if you rush into full physical intimacy too soon, it might stir up some of those worries.

As long as Jin is willing to be patient with me, we can take it slow.

Even though sometimes I want to just toss aside all those silly worries and-

Well...there was plenty of time for that.

You’ve yet to disclose the relationship to your friends either.

More so because Jin wants to respect your wish to go slowly with everything than it is out of fear of their reactions.

But just last night you’d discussed telling everyone.

“I have some friends coming back into town after a long work trip, and I haven’t seen them in awhile.  Would you be up to meeting them?” He’d asked. You’d decided that you’d broach the topic of your relationship with him, deciding that this might be the best opportunity to tell everyone. “I’d love to meet your friends, Jin.  I have a question too…”  “Oh? Is everything alright?” He’d asked, sensing the hesitance in your voice over the phone. “Yes, more than alright.  How would you feel…if we told everyone?”   The silence from the other end gives you momentary panic. “Jin-?” “Are you serious? You really want to? Are you ready for that?” You couldn't help but smile at his obvious barely contained excitement. “Only if you are, I don’t want to rush-” “Let’s tell them. Yes.  Yes, I would love that.  Are you really sure?” “Yes, Jin. I’m really sure.” You’d giggled, then burst into laughter as he made little cheering noises. “I wish I could see you right now.” You’d told him and he went silent for a moment as you heard movement from his end. “Me too, but you have an early morning.  And you’d have me slaving around cooking and cleaning for you again-” “AGAIN? You offered to cook!”  He’d bursted into his ridiculous honking laughter as you’d huffed and puffed at him. “I miss you too.” He finally said, and you’d melted into your bed as he made silly kissy noises into the phone.   “Save those for me for tomorrow, alright?”.   “I have plenty for you whenever you want them.” “Sweet talker.” “Goodnight, beautiful.” He had hummed as you broke the call with your own kisses.

Now in the morning light, faced with the upcoming reveal, you find yourself in panic mode.  

What should I wear?

How should I do my hair?

Oh, I need to shower…is it too early?

Should I-

Your mind races as you rush around, stopping only to have your morning coffee before tearing apart your closet as you reject outfit after outfit.

“Shit,” you mumble, checking the time.  

You have a meeting with one of your editors for the novel you’ve been writing soon.

Tossing a few of the options you’ve picked out into a bag with everything you’ll need for the evening, you grab your laptop and turn to head out.

Jin won’t mind if you need to change at his place last minute, and worst case, your apartment is right across the way if you need anything.

Halting, you chew your lip for a moment before dashing back into your room, digging out your sexiest bra and panty set and some pajamas to toss into your bag.

You never know, it might get late and I might be far too tired to walk home…

Finally you dash out the door, trying not to let your thoughts get too wild, but it’s always better to prepare…

“On my way,” You send to Jin as you dash out of your last appointment of the day.  

Things ran later than you’d expected, but Jin had told you that people weren’t coming over until the evening anyhow.  

Checking the time, you note that it’s only ten past four and you smile to yourself.

You might get some alone time with Jin prior to anyone arriving.

Jin’s incoming text cancels that thought though.

“Yoongi and Tae are already here, Woo and Jungkook ran to grab some things. My friends will be here in a bit as well; I can’t wait to see you.”

Ah well, at least finally telling everyone, you won’t have to pretend anymore.

The smile on your face grows as you imagine the looks on everyone’s faces; you know you’re going to get some ribbing but it’s totally worth it to finally have everything out in the open.

You catch a cab to his place, not wanting to wait on the bus schedule.

You notice Wooyoung and Jungkook walking back as you step from the cab and thank the driver.

“Hey!” You call out, and the two turn to greet you.

“Just getting here?” Jungkook asks, eyeing the departing taxi.

“Yeah, I had a bunch of meetings today, just getting done.”

“Your novel?” Woo asks, and you smile at his memory, you’d mentioned it about a week ago.

“Yeah, it needs to be looked over and then I can take care of any edits and changes.  From the sounds of it, they’re excited about it.” You beam at the two men.

“Well sounds like we need to get you a drink and celebrate!” Jungkook says, ushering you into the elevator to make your way up.

“Sounds good to me, I could use it.” You laugh as they chat about their days.

Your body is thrumming with excitement, you can’t wait to see their reactions to your news.

It’s crazy how you’re more excited over announcing your relationship with Jin than you are over the impending publishing of your book.

When Jin opens the door, his eyes linger on you as you share a knowing look and you have to resist the urge to run into his arms and kiss him.

Soon, you think, very soon.

“Hey come on in, put that stuff in the kitchen.” He tells Wooyoung and Jungkook, and you can hear Yoongi calling out to them.

Jin turns to you and you let out a long breath as he looks at everyone to make sure they're not looking before brushing his fingers over yours.  

He grins at your blush and you give him a glare. 

“Tease. Can I change in your room? I just got out and want to freshen up.” You hold up your bag.

“Of course…want me to come help?” He teases and you hush him with a look over his shoulder.

“Incorrigible pervert.” You mutter as he fakes shock at your words.  

“Fine, fine but later…” he whispers as you brush past him, and he catches your fingers with his momentarily.

You just shake your head at him and disappear into his room to change.

You’ve only been in here once before, when he gave you a tour of his place.

You’d both tried to contain the makeout sessions to his couch, as the bedroom offered far too many opportunities…

Not that it’s stopped a few things, you blush, then shake yourself from your own perverted musings.

While you’re pondering which outfit to wear, you hear the doorbell signalling his other friends showing up.

You grin as you hear some greetings and finally settle on a simple blue dress and sweater, knowing that it’s his favorite color.

You take a moment to step into his connected bathroom and freshen your makeup, smoothing your hair a bit so it’s not too unruly.

Smiling at your reflection, you head out to his room as you hear a soft knock on the door.  

Jin peeks in, his eyes dancing as he looks for you, then he’s looking over his shoulder before slipping inside.

“Jin-” 

Before you can protest, he’s wrapping his arms around you and crushing his lips to yours.

His satisfied little hum has you smiling against his mouth and you give in to the kiss for a moment before reluctantly breaking it.

“You’re pushing it, pal. I could have been changing.”  You chastise him.

“I mean, I was hoping-”

He laughs loudly as you smack his chest lightly.

“Pervert.” You whisper as you go on your tiptoes to give him a peck.

“Your pervert, and I don’t hear you complaining.” He taunts as he pulls you close.

“Hey, you have people on the other side of that door, pal.  Calm yourself.” 

“Fine…” He sulks and you give his cheek a little pinch.

“Is it alright to leave this here?” You gesture to your bag.

“Of course, come on…I can’t wait to introduce you to them as my girlfriend.” 

Your stomach does a little flip at his words, and the anticipation and anxiety of the upcoming reactions has you feeling giddy.

He opens the door and peeks out, then looks over his shoulder to give you a grin.

“Ready?” 

You take his hand when he reaches for you and give him a firm nod, tamping down the nerves threatening your excitement.

He leads you out to the living area, and you can hear voices from the kitchen talking loudly.

Wooyoung’s cackling has you rolling your eyes as Jin tugs you along, and you glance over to see Jimin stepping out of the kitchen.

He opens his mouth, but then doesn’t say a word as he catches sight of your entwined hands.

The look he gives you has you blushing, his eyebrows raised with a cheeky little “oh-ho?” face.

You have a silent back and forth that basically confirms his thoughts and he leans back against the wall with a smug look.

“Hey, since everyone is here-” Jin says, quieting the voices from the kitchen as you walk in.

The rattling of glasses and greetings from the men make you smile, and you have a random passing thought about needing to get some more girl friends in your life.  

Wooyoung’s yapping is cut off as he spots you holding onto Jin and he nudges Taehyung next to him.  

Before you can enjoy their reactions, Jin is drawing your attention to the two men you haven’t met.  

A tall man is talking to Yoongi before he is interrupted by your entry, and there’s a dark haired man behind him rummaging in the fridge.  

The tall man turns his gaze on you and you’re immediately stunned by his serious expression melting into a warm smile as he spots you and Jin.

Wow, they really are all freaking handsome, you think as his dimples pop out.

Ridiculous.

“Namjoon, Hoseok, this is my girlfriend-” Jin starts, but your entire blood supply runs ice cold as the man behind Namjoon turns around.  

It takes you a moment to register Jin’s introduction as your gaze meets the man you thought you’d never see again.

Did he just say Hoseok?

Does he know Hoseok?

Your heart throbs painfully as his eyes register your presence, his stunned expression mirroring your own emotions.

You barely notice the eruption of talking around you from the others as you stare at one another, trying to gather any moisture in your mouth as your brain malfunctions.

What is he doing here? 

Why is he here now, of all times?

Where has he been?

What-?

Despite standing deadly still as Wooyoung grabs your shoulders to shake you, rambling about keeping it secret from him, a violent storm of emotions is warring within you.

Hoseok’s dark, familiar eyes flick over to Jin, then back to you, down to your hands, then back to catch your gaze.

Your hand tightens in Jin’s as he tugs you closer and says something but you don’t hear his words.

What is that look he’s giving you?

Why does he look so pained right now?

Why are you feeling guilty suddenly?

“Hey, is everything okay?” Jin’s voice cuts through your thoughts and you tear your gaze from Hoseok as you realize you haven’t been breathing.

Your head spins as Jin leans down, brushing a strand of hair back as he looks at you in concern.

“What did you call her?” Hoseok finally breaks his silence, drawing your attention once more.

“Jin’s got a girlfriend, I never thought I’d see the day-”

“Finally, fuck, I’ve been waiting to hear you two come clean-”

“I knew it!”

The commotion around you finally gets through as you try to take one breath after another, slowly trying to calm yourself.

“What. Did. You. Call. Her.” Hoseok asks again as he pushes past Namjoon.

Jin lets out a confused laugh as Hoseok approaches and you can feel your stomach tremble in concern.

Oh god, don’t let Hoseok say anything, please-

“My girlfriend.  I’m sorry I didn’t tell you guys before, it’s fairly new-” Jin begins.

“How new?” Hoseok asks, his gaze turning on you.

Is he angry?

What the fuck?

“Um.. it’s been a few weeks…” Jin responds, looking confused at Hoseok’s inquiries and tone.

As Hoseok gets near, a waft of his familiar scent hits you like a truck and your entire body suddenly unfreezes as a swarm of confused emotions pummel you all at once.

You don’t hear anything else said as you tug your hand from Jin’s and bolt out of the room, out of the apartment, using the emergency stairs to escape.

Why is this happening?

What is going on?

You barely notice the pain of your jaw clenching tightly, tears stinging your eyes as you run out of the building.

You have no idea where you are going, but your only thought is flight.

The sound of your name coming from behind you only encourages your feet as you sprint off.

Everything was going so well, why did he suddenly reappear in your life?

“So I was invited to this event…” 

You glance over at your best friend, rubbing your eyes from lack of sleep.

“Oh yeah? Is it for photography?” you ask him, curious.

Wooyoung perks up, nodding as you give him your full attention.

“Yeah, one of the editors gave me two tickets so…” he looks at you sheepishly, barely able to hide his cheeky little grin.

But you know him too well at this point.

“Wooyoung…you know I don’t like things like that.” you respond, closing your laptop as you lean back in your chair.

“Come on, I need a plus one and you are my best option.  It’s free food and drinks…besides…” he says, eyeing you, “You need to get out of the house.”

You give him a small frown, unconsciously reaching up to touch your messy hair that you’d thrown into a bun earlier before working.

“Well that’s just rude.” you grumble as he comes over to grab your shoulders and shake you playfully.

“Look, I’ll pick out your outfit and everything, all you need to do is show up.  I’ll owe you!” 

Sighing, you reluctantly agree after a bit more coaxing, already regretting inviting him over tonight.

Still, you can’t help but get swept away in his enthusiasm, and you know despite hating the social atmosphere, you want to be there to support your friend.

So that’s how you find yourself, hiding to the side in this massive ballroom, surrounded by people you don’t know, as you watch Wooyoung mingle with people from afar.

Good, I may be able to make an early exit if he’s busy…you think to yourself as you eye the doors off in the distance.

A low voice suddenly breaks you out of your fantasies of being at home, lounging in a bathrobe with no one else around.

“Are you planning your escape?” the husky voice asks, and you glance over at the man who’s taken up residence next to you.

“Is it that obvious?” you ask, assessing him as he glances between you and the door.  

He was long and lean, impeccably dressed in some designer or another.

Wooyoung would be able to pick it out, you think, as you eye the newcomer.  

“Only if you’re thinking the same thing,” he winks, leaning back against the wall as he tilts his head at you.  

You turn slightly towards him, unexpectedly not all that annoyed by the company.

“While I don’t want to slight anyone here, as I believe it’s quite an extravagant party, if you like that kind of thing…I’d much rather be lounging around in my pajamas at home.”  you respond, looking down at the gown Wooyoung had plucked out of your closet earlier.

The red cocktail dress was gorgeous, ending slightly above the knee; understatedly sexy yet sophisticated.  

You’d held onto it from some event or another in the last year and Wooyoung had insisted.  

Your new companion's eyes drift down your frame along with yours, then at his own attire.  

“I couldn’t possibly want to wear anything else but this, of course.” He announces a bit loudly, before tossing you the cutest wink and rolling his eyes slightly.

Then he leans in, whispering, “Pajamas sound heavenly…”

You cover your mouth as a small giggle escapes your lips, surprising you.  

This man has me giggling like a little girl, you chastise yourself, as if I haven’t spoken to a handsome man before…

His dark eyes dance with delight as he gives you a bright smile, causing your heart to flutter a bit.

Damn, you think, what a fucking smile.

“Hoseok. But you can call me Hobi,” he offers.

Blushing, you whisper your name, enjoying how he has to lean in to catch it.  

“So what brings you out tonight?” he inquires after introductions are complete.

You glance back over at Wooyoung, unsurprisingly at the center of all the attention as he regales his friends with some story or another.  

You pick out a few familiar faces and a soft smile teases at your lips.

Hoseok’s eyes dart back up to yours as you turn back, and you can’t help but wonder if he was looking at your mouth.  

Not the place to be getting heated over a handsome man, you think, focusing back on the topic.

Clearing your throat, you finally respond, “I’m a plus one for the peacock over there,” you gesture to Wooyoung, who is currently hanging off a mutual friend.

Hoseok glances over briefly, noting the group, then turns back to you.

“Boyfriend?” he asks, raising an eyebrow.  

Snorting, you wave a hand at him, “No...no…I couldn’t handle half of what that man puts out.  He’s a bit much for me personally.”  

“Ah…” he replies, seeming to relax a bit.

You stare at him curiously, wondering what his reaction is all about before asking the same. 

“And you? Are you here for the event or are you an extra too?”  

He gives you a shrug, letting out a soft sigh, “Here alone, for the event.  Brushing shoulders and all that, but I find myself more interested in one-on-one conversations tonight.” 

Your cheeks heat at the obvious flirtatious tone, finding yourself leaning ever so slightly closer to him. 

“Well I’m in luck then, aren’t I? Good thing I didn’t escape yet.” You say quickly, before you can stop yourself.  

Oh my god, am I flirting? 

His face lights up and you can’t help but take note of the way his cheeks lift to expose the cutest dimples.  

Warmth flares in the pit of your stomach and you find yourself looking closer at him; the man is even more attractive than you first realized.  

Especially with that gorgeous smile.

He appears to notice your close study of him, his smile warm as he returns the favor.  

“Definitely a good thing…” he repeats back to you, and you resist the urge to fan yourself at his proximity.  

Clearing your throat, you redirect the conversation before you start stuttering at this stranger.

“So what is your reason for being here? Work? Or are you some kind of ambassador?” 

He studies you, and you swear there’s a bit of disappointment at your attempt to talk about mundane things.

“Work…I write for a fashion magazine.  Luckily it’s a lot of sitting back and people watching, so this suits me fine…but I’d much rather hear about you.” He answers, tilting his head at you in curiosity.

Suddenly, you find your cheeks heating even more, and you hope that it’s not too noticeable.  

Shit…you hadn’t thought about answering that when you’d asked….

“Uh…I…I also write. Novels…fiction…” you stammer out, your voice shaky as you pray he won’t pry.

Yet, those hopes are dashed as he responds.

“What kind of fiction do you write?” he inquires, brows drawing together at your sudden discomfort.

“Smut…” You mumble at him, and he frowns, leaning closer to you.

“What was that-?” he asks.

“R-romance…” you say, heart thumping in your chest from the save.

Oh my god, did I just say smut? Good lord, this man has me flustered!

“Oh…really?” he says, crossing his arms over his chest as he nods in contemplation, “So what kind of smut?” 

“Well I-” but you stop mid thought, face burning as he holds your gaze.

“Fuck.…” you mumble, then curse yourself for blurting it out loud.

He laughs in delight, his soft chuckle winding you up both in embarrassment and something else a little more…primal.

“That’s quite the mouth you’ve got on you...now I’m curious what else that pretty mind can come up with.” 

Something within you seems to awaken at his teasing; despite your mild uneasiness at this particular topic, you long for this to continue.

Tossing caution to the wind, you decide to answer with your true thoughts.

“You’d be surprised what this mind can conjure up when I’m all alone with a keyboard…” you whisper to him, leaning in just enough to brush your arm against his.  

A thrill jolts through you as his eyes widen, his Adam's apple bobbing visibly as he tenses a bit at your words.

Before you can regret your comment or apologize and retreat, he’s pressing his arm firmly against yours before responding.

“Well now, you can’t say something so tempting and expect me not to ask for an example.”  he whispers, his voice deepening with a sultry huskiness.

Inhaling a shaky breath, you glance around to see if anyone has noticed your interaction.

“Noone is paying us any attention.  They’re all more interested in getting the attention of the elites in the room.” He whispers.

You glance back at him, his eyes locked on you as if you’re the only person in this massive room.

Oh fucking hell, you think, as he runs his knuckle over your bare upper arm.  

You’ve written the word “clenching" so many times but right at this very moment, you swear you never grasped the gravity of what it was like to actually do so.

“Do you ask every woman you come across to talk dirty to you?” You tease, enjoying the way he continues to touch your skin despite the feigned shock on his face.

“Do you curse at every man who asks you to?” He retorts, biting his bottom lip as his eyes flick to your mouth.

Swallowing heavily, you take a deep breath and let it out slowly, attempting to collect your thoughts.

“I can’t say that I’ve ever had anyone actually ask me, let alone someone I’ve just met…” you tell him, wondering where the hell this conversation was going to lead.

His face softens slightly as he examines your features.

“I’ll be honest with you…I rarely attempt to even go beyond small talk with others, let alone…this…” 

The finger caressing your arm stops suddenly as he seems to be contemplating something.

Your stomach twists at the thought of him drawing away, of losing this contact with him but your worries are alleviated as he continues speaking.

“Would you like to go somewhere more private?”

He rushes to add, “To talk, of course.” 

Perhaps it’s the adrenaline coursing through your veins at the insane attraction to this man that causes you to laugh, but you don’t know how else to react right now.

His brows raise at the reaction, and before he can say anything else, you quickly nod at the suggestion.

“Yes…please.” 

Another laugh bubbles up from your throat at his shocked reaction, as if he expected to be rejected.

Before you can regret your answer, he’s pushing off the wall, glancing around before turning to hold his hand out to you.  

“I…have a room here for the night…” He offers.

“To talk, of course.” You respond.

“Of course, for…research.” he shoots back as you settle your hand in his.  

A shiver courses through you as his long fingers entwine with yours, allowing him to lead you to the back of the room and down a corridor.

You spare only a glance at Wooyoung before you disappear from the event entirely, hoping he won’t mind your absence.

Your heart flutters in your ribcage as you ponder why in the hell you’re going somewhere alone with a man you just met, but all of your reason seems to have fled tonight.

Yet you can’t deny that this is much more interesting than sitting around in your bathrobe, writing about it.

Your stomach is tight with anticipation and anxiety as the trip from the hall to the elevators then to the corridor to his room is silent.

The motion of his thumb caressing your fingers is all that keeps you from bolting back into the safety of the party, but you know that you would regret that fully if you did.

He produces a keycard and leads you into his room, and as the door shuts behind you, your mind is already made up.

Whatever happens, happens.

It has been ages since you have even been on a date, let alone anything physical…

And maybe this is just to talk, as he said…

His room is a suite, with an open-plan sitting area, a small couch and coffee table, the large king size bed looming in the background.  

The long ceiling to floor windows are wide open, curtains pulled back to display the city lit up brightly below.

He leads you to the couch, reluctantly releasing your hand as he looks up at you expectantly.

You hesitate a moment before seating yourself beside him, clasping your hands together to stop him from seeing your tremble.

Mistaking your gesture, he rushes to fill the silence.

“If you get uncomfortable, please don’t hesitate to say as much. The last thing I want to do is-” 

“I’m not uncomfortable. I mean, at least not in a bad way.” you blurt out, cutting him off.

You swear if your cheeks heat any more than they already have tonight, your skin is going to melt off.

His face lights up as he places a hand over his chest, letting out an audible breath.

“Thank goodness, I...I really do want to get to know you better.”

You glance around once more before attempting to get more comfortable on the couch, turning towards him as you cross your legs.

You don’t fail to notice how his eyes dart to your legs as the skirt rides up slightly and the flush that’s visibly creeping up his neck.

Oh this is so dangerous, you think, yet it’s also the most exciting thing that’s happened to you in ages.

He angles himself towards you as you brush your skirt over your knee, trying to hide your smile as he quickly averts his eyes.

“So…do you enjoy writing?” he asks softly, as he leans back against the cushions, resting his elbow on the back of the couch and props his chin on his palm.

Taking the cue, you also try to relax back into the comfy sofa as you finally give him your full attention.

“I do…quite a lot.  I failed to mention that I am also an editor for other writers, but I split my time between that and my own work.” 

He just holds your gaze as you speak, seemingly fascinated with each word you utter.  

It was quite the thrill to have someone so close, so interested…and so gorgeous. 

“Do you enjoy your work?” You return, not wanting to only talk about yourself.

He takes a moment, glancing off as if to ponder the question.

“Hmm…at times.  It can take over my life sometimes, honestly.  The amount of research and travel involved sometimes can be overwhelming.  But…” he lets his eyes drift back to you, lips curling softly as he pauses, “sometimes I get to meet interesting people.”

Your stomach flips as his tone drops, sensing that constant underlying tension drawing you closer to him before you can stop yourself.  

It’s as if each moment requires an inch to be removed from between you.

“It’s quite the opposite of my work then,” you laugh breathily, “I spend most of my time imagining encounters…like this…” 

Your words trail off as the back of your neck heats, already wincing at your comment.

His eyes widen slightly, brows raising as a smile dances across his lips.

“Oh? And…if you were to be writing … this specific encounter…what would happen next?”  

Your breath hitches, mind racing at the question, at the implication, at where this could be leading…

“Well…I suppose I’d have to check my notes, answer some…questions first before proceeding.” You finally reply, enjoying the gleam of interest in his eyes.

“What kinds of questions?” His soft yet hoarse tone has you clenching your thighs together, “Perhaps I can help answer them.”

Good lord, this man is making me lose all of my sanity.

“Well…” you take a moment to think, biting your lower lip, “first, has he been drinking?”

“Not a drop.”

“Mmm..then…does he always bring unfamiliar women back to his hotel room?” 

His brow twitches, his gaze drifting to your mouth, then back up.

“This is definitely his first time doing anything so bold.”  

Your heart races at this admission, spiralling your senses further into losing all rationale.

“Well, for…her…she’s never done anything as daring either so…I’d have to ask why this man even spoke to her to begin with; what is it he is looking for?”  

His tongue darts out, wetting his lips as his eyes hood over, letting his gaze drift openly over you before answering.

“At first, he was curious about why such a beautiful woman was all alone, hiding among the plants at such an event…but after speaking to her, he couldn’t help but long to know more.  Away from all of the eyes lingering on her, so his were the only ones who could study her more closely.”

Your entire body tightens at the compliment, the quivers from being so tense threatening to give away how much he’s affecting you.

“And does he…regret the decision?” you can’t stop your voice from wavering at the question.

He brings his hand up to gently tuck a lock of hair behind your ear, then he traces his knuckle down your cheek.

“Quite the contrary, he’s as mesmerized by her mind as he is by her beauty.” 

At his touch, your lips part, and it takes everything within you to not let out the most wanton moan at the simple contact.

“I’m curious to know why she allowed herself to be all alone with this man, despite having all these questions.” he follows up, curiosity gleaming in his eyes.

Feeling emboldened by his answers, you lean in closer until you swear you can feel his breath tickling your lips.  

“Perhaps she’s curious as to why this handsome man chose her to speak to…and what it is that's so tempting about him.”

His hand slips up your jaw, opening to cup your cheek as his breathing noticeably hitches.  

“She’s tempted?” He asks, barely audible.

Your heart trembles, stomach swirling with butterflies as he dips his head ever closer so that you can almost feel the brush of his lips.

As if he’s waiting for you to be the one to close the final gap.

You give an almost imperceptible nod, your own hand reaching up to flick back a lock of his hair before tracing your fingertips along his gorgeous cheekbones.

“She can’t stop thinking about what her particular shade of lipstick will look like covering his sexy-” you breathe out.

Before you can continue, he lets out an impatient little grunt as he grasps the back of your neck, pulling your mouth against his.

Your fingers slip down his throat and you can feel his pulse beating quickly against your thumb as it rests on his neck.  

Your lips part eagerly for him as his tongue traces the seam of your mouth, and finally the whimper you’ve been holding back bubbles up out of you.

This only urges him on as he nips your bottom lip, sucking gently as he slowly guides you onto your back.  

Yes, yes, yes, your mind screams as he deepens the kiss, using his legs to part your thighs.

Your fingers delve into his hair, clutching onto the strands as he breaks from your mouth to pepper kisses along your jaw.

“Please-” you say, not exactly knowing what you’re asking for but he complies anyhow, slipping his hand between you and tugging up the skirts of your dress.

He halts momentarily and concern suddenly twists up your insides as he rests his cheek against your collarbone.  

“Is something-?” you manage through your throaty breaths.

“No-no-” he interjects, looking up at you as his palm grazes against your naked inner thigh, “-I just…want this to last…and you’ve already got me-”

He doesn't bother to finish the sentence, shuddering against you as his fingertips slip beneath your panties.

A wave of heat washes over you as he lets out a long, deep moan.

A confusing mix of bashfulness and exhilaration threatens to overwhelm you from just the pads of his fingers teasing over your drenched folds.

You can’t look away from his stunning face, his eyes fluttering closed as his lips part to let out the most delicious little noises as he explores you.  

Doing your best to hold back your own whimpers, you clutch at the couch cushion above you as your fingers cling to the strands of his hair in your hand.  

“Fuck-you’re killing me with how wet you already are…” he breathes against the skin of your chest, “Don’t hold back, I want to hear you-” 

Your hips lift as his fingers part your lower lips, skimming upwards agonizingly slow until he finds what he’s looking for.

“Mmmm-yes…” he murmurs as you finally cry out as he rolls your clit gently between his thumb and forefinger.  “That’s it…you like that?” 

You nod frantically as he focuses intently on drawing out your pleasure, each tiny motion of his deft fingers causing your body to arch and shake.

“Yes, oh god-” You finally whimper, “Hoseok-” 

He draws away from you slightly, angling himself so that he’s hovering above in order to look down at you.

“Talk to me, baby-” He coaxes, his eyes flicking down to take in the sight of you spread wide open with your panties pushed aside.  

“So good, oh god…don’t stop-” you blurt out, scrambling to articulate the most basic words in the haze of desire you’re trapped in.

You release the cushion you're gripping, grasping at the back of his neck, then tugging at his suit jacket as he looks between your face and his fingers teasing at you.

“What is it, baby? Tell me what you want-” he encourages, his honeyed cheeks flushing with heat as his gaze locks on your cunt.

The rasp of his voice has you clenching tightly and he gasps softly at the sight, causing you to cover your face in embarrassment.

“No, no no…don’t you dare…” he hums, his dark eyes locking on yours as he pulls his hand from you to grip your wrists and tug them gently away from your face.

Your breathing is coming shallow and hard as he pins you down, searching your face before leaning in to press his lips to yours once more.

Your heart beats in your throat, grateful for the momentary change of pace as he kisses you tenderly.

You take the opportunity to grasp at his jacket and push it off his shoulders, and he helps you remove it, tossing it off to the side without parting from you.  

He slides his hands behind your back, blindly seeking your zipper and finally he lets out a happy sigh into your mouth as he finds it and tugs it down.  

It’s awkward for a moment as you lean up, doing your best to allow him access to unzip you fully, then tug at his tie and the buttons of his shirt.

“Fuck this.” he finally says, propping himself up to stand, then tug you up off the couch.

You stumble a little before he pulls you close, his mouth already on yours as he slides your dress off of you, allowing it to drop to the floor.

You return to plucking at the buttons of his shirt as he walks you both backwards, your dress left behind in a heap as his hands slip down to your ass to squeeze your cheeks greedily.

“Rip it off-” he demands between kisses, one hand sliding up your spine to pluck at the clasp of your bra.

You comply immediately, yanking at his shirt without a second thought, a satisfying tearing sound quickly drowned out by both of your gasping breaths.  

You waste no time in running your fingers along his lean torso, his skin raising against your palms as you slip them down his stomach.  

He inhales in a sharp hiss as you boldly drop your hand to grope his erection through his pants.  

“Off-” he groans, doing his best to guide you back to the large bed behind him without bowling you both over.  

You nod as you feel your bra finally loosen, shrugging out of it quickly before tearing at his belt, then the button and zipper of his pants.  

The back of his knees hit the bed and you use the momentum to push him onto it, grabbing at the pants and yanking them off.  

As you throw them onto the floor, you pause to admire the ridiculously gorgeous man before you, clad in only a pair of boxers that are tented by his quite obvious arousal.  

Am I really doing this? Fuck yes I’m doing this, you think wildly as he reaches for you.

“Come here,” he pants, grabbing you behind your thighs to pull you onto the bed with him.

You can’t help but let out a strangled laugh as you tumble onto him, tits smacking him right in the face as you land on top of him.  

Before you can even voice an apology, he’s latching onto your nipple as he scoots you both up the bed.  

Your legs entwine with his as you grip his hair, his stiff cock grinding into your inner thigh as he rolls you onto your back.

A cry escapes you as he sucks harshly, drawing back to look at the raised bud before he uses the tip of his tongue to circle slowly as he looks up at you.

A rush of warmth floods your thighs as you feel his body press into you and you gasp as his dick slips from the opening of his boxers to connect with your naked flesh.  

“Fuck, fuck-” he chokes out as you push them down, looking between you as he wiggles free off them.

He sits back on his heels, yanking your panties down your hips, and you raise your legs to help him remove them.  

“These are mine now.” he says, bunching them up in his hand before bringing them to his nose to inhale deeply.

The reaction to this has your entire body flushing with heat and a strangled whimper rips from your throat before he’s pushing your legs open to settle between them.  

He reaches over to place your panties on his bedside table before returning to hover over you.  

“You’re so fucking sexy,” he whispers as you clutch at his shoulders, looking down between you as he rocks his hips to rub the underside of his cock along your damp slit.  

You arch your back at the contact, moaning desperately as the head rubs against your clit over and over.

“Hoseok-wait-protection-” you gasp out, placing your open palm on his chest before you can lose yourself completely. 

“Fuck, right, yeah-” he blinks, eyes wide as his breathes heavily, then he’s yanking open the drawer in the sidetable to dig through until he finds a familiar foil packet.

You relax slightly at this, one less worry as he rips it open with his teeth and then pulls out the condom.  

“Here-” you offer, taking it from him eagerly in order to put it on as he props himself above you.

You admire how pretty his curved cock is as you roll it down him, looking back up at him as you wrap your fingers around him to stroke him slowly.

His eyes close at the motion, thrusting into your hand before he’s dropping down onto you and his tongue is in your mouth once more.  

“Tell me you want me,” he moans against your lips, his voice shaking with need as the tip dips between nudging your clit and teasing at your aching hole.  

“Please, Hoseok,” you moan out, wiggling beneath him to urge him to finally give in to you, “Fuck, please, I want you so fucking badly, it hurts-”

“Yeah?” he whispers, using his thighs to push your legs further open, “Say it again, say my name, beg me-”

“Hoseok, please, oh god, please…fuck…I want-I need-!” you cry out, your nails digging into his shoulders as you writhe beneath him.

His breath catches at your pleas and he pushes forward slowly at first, but as you let out a long, drawn out moan he drives himself deep within you.

You clench around him and he brushes his lips against the shell of your ear, his heavy breathing just heightening the pleasure as he pulls back just to thrust back into you.  

“Baby, you feel so fucking incredible,” he hums in your ear as you wrap your legs around his waist, tilting your hips as he sets a steady rhythm.

Your breath keeps catching with each thrust, and every single nerve ending in your body is on fire as he coaxes the most obscene noises from you.

“Hoseok-” you whine, a soft keening noise underlying every word you speak, “Harder-feels so good…please…fuck-!”

A pleased groan rumbles in his chest as he fists his hand in your hair, gently tipping your head back to press his lips against your throat.  

The wet, slapping sounds of your bodies meeting makes your cheeks flare with heat, but you could care less right now as he continues to ply you with breathy questions. 

“Right there, baby? Yeah?” he asks as you gasp, rolling his hips so his pelvis grinds against your clit, “You sound so fucking good with my cock deep inside of you-” 

A string of unintelligible curses leave your lips and you can feel him smile against your neck as he continues to repeat the motion over and over.

“That’s it, let me hear every filthy word while I fuck your pretty little pussy,” he croons in a raspy tone, pulling away to look at you.  

Strands of damp hair cling to his forehead as he gazes down upon you, his pupils entirely blown out as he drips sweat onto your tits.  

You’ve never seen anyone or anything so absolutely sinful, and your body arches off the bed as an orgasm rips through you unexpectedly.

“Oh my god, fuck, yes, yes, fuck, come for me-” Hoseok gasps as you clamp around him, gritting his teeth as he struggles to keep up the tempo.

The walls echo your coarse wails, voice breaking as you attempt to reclaim your airways.

He’s unrelenting, however, as he takes this cue to slip one of his hands under your ass to roll onto his back and settle you onto top of him.  

His hands grip your ass as you steady yourself, grasping onto his shoulders as he guides your hips against him.

You let out a shaky laugh as a range of emotions wash over you; surprise, self-consciousness, euphoria all twisted up together.

One of Hoseok’s hands leaves your ass to slip up your side and settle under the weight of your breast, his eyes shuttering as you begin to move on top of him.

“Look at you…so fucking beautiful,” he groans as he palms your breast, grazing his thumb over your nipple as it tightens in response.

His reaction spurs you on, discarding any lingering insecurity as you begin to ride him properly.

He throws his head back with a long moan as you bounce on his cock, and the overwhelming need to feel his tongue has you slipping two fingers into his mouth.

He doesn’t disappoint as he immediately sucks on them, his gaze locked onto you as he swirls his tongue around the pads of your fingers.  

You’ve only ever written something so bold in your fics, yet here you are, living out the most erotic moment of your life.

His fingers dig into your flesh, guiding your body against his as the tension in your core throbs and coils.  

“Talk to me, baby,” he insists as your fingers trace along his lower lip, nipping gently as he stares up at you.

“So hard…to think…” you manage, your body ablaze as he tweaks one nipple, then the other.

His dark eyes are gleaming with delight as each touch, each movement elicits the most pornographic noises you’ve ever made.  

“Is my cock making you lose your mind, baby?” 

Your body jerks as his hand slips down from your tits to where you’re joined, the tips of his fingers teasing over your overly sensitive clit.  

You nod furiously, gasping as he starts circling slowly, drawing out a prolonged wail as you clench in pulses around him.  

“You’re making me-a complete mess-” you gasp out as he continues to add pressure with his fingers. 

“Make a fucking mess, baby, I can feel you soaking my thighs, that’s it-” he encourages, watching you so intently that he leans up, his eyes glinting feverishly.

“Hoseok-god, I want to see you lose control…want to feel you come-hear you moan for me, cover me, all over me-” you babble, just letting whatever thought comes into your mind escape out of your mouth.

“All over you, baby? Is that what you want?” he breathes out, his voice shaking enough to let you know he’s getting close.

You’re right there with him, nodding as he sits up fully, grabbing your hips to urge you towards your building climax.  

“Come for me, baby, and I’ll give you everything you want, come on, that’s it-” he hums, brushing your lips with his as he bounces you in his lap.

Your entire body shudders as he bites your bottom lip, groaning loudly as you cling to him and everything within you crumbles.

His name falls from your lips over and over, breaking off in hoarse cries as you tremble in his arms.  

His groans build in volume, breathing coming quicker as he holds back enough to let you completely finish before he’s tipping you backwards, pulling out and yanking off the condom as he positions himself on his knees between your legs.

“Come, come, come-!” you demand, aftershocks still causing your body to shake as he wraps his hand around his cock and jerks himself into completion all over your stomach and breasts.

You grip the bed above you, trying to catch your breath as sticky ropes of cum spurt from him, reveling in the obscene sight this must make.  

His body shudders and twitches as he slows his movements, his fingers slowly milking every last drop onto your naked skin before he collapses on top of you. 

Your fingers immediately tangle into his hair, your chest heaving along with his as you both attempt to recover.

Your combined panting finally slows enough to let silence fill the room, your eyes fluttering closed as he nuzzles his face into your neck.

Peace washes over you, and you barely register the passage of time until you feel Hoseok pull away gently, not even opening your eyes as you pout at the loss.

“I’ll be right back,” he whispers softly before he slips away, and you hear the rush of water from the other room.

Must be cleaning himself up…you think idly, but you’re shaken from the thought as a warm cloth drifts over your skin a few moments later.

You open your eyes slightly to peek at him and your heart leaps into your throat at the sight; he’s seated on the edge of the bed, gently cleaning you up and giving you a warm smile.  

“Shh, relax,” he murmurs, shaking his head as you attempt to cover yourself with your arms.  

You shiver at how sweet he’s being, at how his eyes linger on each part of your naked body as he takes his time with the cloth.  

“Don’t tell me you’re going to be shy now…” he teases as you cover your face with your hands to hide your blush.  

You feel him get off the bed, following his movements around the room through your fingers as he wanders back into the bathroom, then sets about picking up your discarded clothing.

Sighing inwardly as he slips his boxers back on, you feel your heart flutter as he picks up your dress delicately and drapes it over the back of one of the chairs.

This is my cue, I suppose…you think, sitting up to toss your legs over the side of the bed.

As you stand and look around for your bra, his voice draws your attention.

“What are you doing?” he asks, tilting his head at you as he smooths his hand over the fabric of your dress.  

“Um…finding my…clothing?” The statement comes out as a question, confused as to why he is asking.

You turn to spot the panties on the nightstand, but as you reach for him, he closes the distance between you and grabs your wrist lightly before you can retrieve them.

“I told you..” he hums, bringing your knuckles to his lips, “Those are mine now.”

Your breath hitches as his lips brush over your skin, and his lashes flutter as he slips an arm around you.

Swallowing heavily, you try to refocus your mind on reason but this man has already got your emotions scattering as he pulls you close.

“I..I figured that was my hint to leave…” you whisper, glancing at the dress, then back to him.

His face is unreadable as he studies you quietly for a moment, his eyes darting back and forth as he looks into yours.

“I won’t stop you if you do, if that's what you want, but…” he trails off, the arm around you tightening slightly, almost…posessively. 

“But?” you echo quietly, longing for him to say the words you wish to hear.

He hesitates briefly, then leans in to nudge your nose with his.

“But…I’d really like it if you stayed with me.” he finally admits, and your stomach does a complete somersault in joy.

“Alright.”

“Alright?” he repeats, as if he needs to double check.

“Yes, I’d…really like that too.” 

His face lights up with that gorgeous smile for only a moment, then his lips are capturing yours in a searing kiss as he urges you back onto the bed.

“Perhaps I’ll keep you up all night…” he whispers seductively, removing his boxers once more before burying his face in your-

“Hey, are you even listening to me?” Wooyoung complains, snapping his fingers in front of your face. 

“Eh? What?” you ask, shaking yourself from the memories of that night, focusing on your friend.

It has been two days since your encounter and you still find yourself wandering around in a daze, idly staring off in remembrance.

What kind of school girl hell crush is this? you think for the nth time, shaking yourself from your fantasies.

“Did you even hear what I said? What’s got you so lost in thought, hmmm?” He prods, bumping your shoulder with his, “Or should I say…who?”

“Stop, you’re going to make me spill.” You chastise him, grabbing a napkin to wipe at the drip from your full coffee cup.

“You need to be spilling, cause something is definitely up with you.” Wooyoung’s eyes narrow at you, always the prying little pest.

But I adore him, you think with an exaggerated sigh.

“I'll tell you…. eventually…maybe…” you try to deflect, but he’s not having it.

“Who is he? Where did you meet? What’s his name? Do I know him?” 

The questions are fired at you like bullets and you wave at him as he leans in closer to interrogate you.

“None of your business, nosy.”

You push his face away, chuckling at the ridiculous pout he gives you.

Your phone chimes, signalling an incoming text message, and Woo immediately goes to grab for it.

“Hey!” You exclaim, snatching it up and holding it close to your chest before giving him a little smack on his arm.

“When do you even go out to-?” he starts up again after a long sip of his coffee.  

Before he can continue, you glance at the clock.

“Don’t you have an appointment?”

“Oh shit, yeah, sorry-gotta run. See ya, doll!” he says, taking a last sip, then planting a harsh kiss on your cheek before dashing to the entryway to toss on his shoes. 

“This conversation isn’t over!” he calls out as the door closes behind him.

You wait a moment longer, making sure he’s actually gone before letting out a weary sigh.

“Nosy ass.” you grumble, then you finally look at your phone in anticipation.

Hope turns to disappointment as you read the text from one of your novelists, talking about an appointment later this week.

“Ah well…” you hum, responding quickly before switching to the text exchange you really want to be having.

You’d intended to leave the next morning in order to not overstay your welcome; but when Hoseok had come sauntering out of the bathroom, freshly showered with damp hair hanging in his face and a simple white hotel towel slung around his lean waist ... .well….

You stand and walk to your apartment window, staring off as you replay the multiple ways his tongue invaded you, all the delicious ways he-

Shaking your head, you snap back to reality, fanning yourself from the recollection.  

You’d finally managed to leave around midday, after tiring yourselves out and a nice, comforting nap in his arms.  

He’d stayed true to his word and kept your panties, hiding them behind his back when you attempted to reclaim them.  

A goofy smile plays over your lips, unconsciously tapping them with your fingers as you think about his stolen kisses even as he teased you.

For some reason, you felt no shame walking out of there and hailing a cab home sans underwear.  

You’d exchanged numbers, and honestly you hadn’t expected much from him, given the circumstances of your tryst.

Yet you’d received a text from him not even two hours after leaving him.

You can’t help but reread the little bits of conversation you’ve had since then, chewing your thumbnail as you scroll through.

“Did you get in safely?”

“I can still smell you on my fingers…” 

You let out a small giggle, turning only to stumble over a chair that you swear wasn’t there a moment ago.

You wander to your desk, sitting and rubbing your knee as you read the last exchange from yesterday.  

“So, when can I see you again?” He’d texted that morning.

“When would you like to?” You’d answered.

“Right now, if I could…but unfortunately I have obligations that I can’t get out of.”

“Then why don’t you message me when you have time, I’m not going anywhere.” You’d responded, heart soaring that he was even considering seeing you again.

“The moment I have free time, I’d like to take you on a proper date…if that’s something 

you’d be interested in?”  

You stare at the question as a smile plays over your lips, resisting the urge to kick your feet like a teenager, but it’s tough not to.

“Rushing into things, aren’t you?” you’d teased and he hadn’t disappointed with his response.

“That’s not what you were saying the other night when I had that sexy mouth screaming my name.”

You toss your phone, ears burning as you clear your throat, looking around as if you’re not the only person sitting around in your pajamas in your own apartment.

“Work! I have to work….” you scold yourself, unable to chase away the silly grin as you try to concentrate on getting your tasks sorted.

A week passes before you are able to solidify a time to meet up with him.

It’s the way he asks that has you tearing apart your wardrobe frantically.

“I need to see you, or I’m going lose my mind.”

Unfortunately, he only has an hour to spare for lunch, but you’re grateful for the opportunity to see him once more.

It had taken an ungodly amount of time to find the right thing to wear, and you lament the cleaning you’re going to have to do once you return home.

It looks like your closet has a bomb go off inside of it as you rush out to meet him.

The way he smiles at you as you spot him in the small cafe chases away any negative thoughts as you rush over to join him.

It’s a simple lunch, and before you can do so much as move beyond simple small talk, his phone alarm is going off.

“I promise I’ll make more time for you, gorgeous.” He whispers as he places a kiss on your cheek, his fingers skimming along yours as he parts from you.

The door chimes as he makes his exit and you’re left with your heart pitter pattering at seeing him in the flesh again.

I’ve got it so bad.

You take the time to grab some things, taking the opportunity while you’re already out so you don’t have to go out again unnecessarily.

As you’re unlocking your door, your phone chimes.

“It took everything to not just say fuck it and spend the day with you.  Soon, baby.” 

You spend the rest of the day with a stupid grin on your face and once more you’re delighted that you live alone so no one can see how foolish you look.

Your friends have definitely started to notice.

Wooyoung makes sense, yet apparently even some of the others have picked up on the change in you.

Hoseok has kept up a constant stream of contact, with some of the late night calls taking a racy turn.

You’re not quite sure what it is this relationship is, but you have zero concern that you’re attracted to one another.

He wasn’t lying when he’d mentioned how busy his job kept him the first night you’d met.  

He is constantly on his way to or from somewhere or other, sometimes even out of town or even the country.  

Yet, he always makes it a point to send you sweet messages, asking about your day, telling you how much he longs to see you again.

Despite the slow, staggered way this was developing, the constant reminders that he was out there, thinking of you has become the highlight of every day.

No longer can you refuse to admit how much you look forward to his daily texts or calls.  

How you stare at your screen, pining for his messages.  

That you’ve even made a special tone just for him in your phone.

Far, far too gone on a man you’ve barely spent any time with outside of the bedroom.

You’ve managed to get little pockets of time together, brief coffee meet ups or small windows of time where he’s passing nearby and you can pop out to see him for a moment.

He’s even come by just to plant a kiss on your lips, only to run off moments later.

Even after two months, you’ve only been able to see one another a handful of times.

The one time you’d gotten longer than an hour or two, he’d insisted that he wanted to take you out and the intention was there.

Yet, when he showed up at your place, you’d both been stripping each other within minutes of his arrival. 

You still can’t look at your table without being reminded of how he’d had you bent over it, plowing into you as his fingers worked magic over your entire body.  

He’d stayed over, but unfortunately, he’d been out the door before the sun had even peeked past the horizon, with promises to message you later and a steamy goodbye kiss.

Only a few visits here and there, yet all over your place were memories of him.

His lips, his raspy voice whispering your name, his agile fingers…

It had taken a half a week for you to finally clean the window where he’d had your body pressed, tits squished firmly and handprints marking yet another place he’d ravaged you.

Unfortunately, you’d had to wash the small blanket you keep on the couch…between his tongue driving you to the point of overstimulation and his own contributions from your efforts…

The man really did love making a complete mess of you…and all over you.

He was insatiable, and you spare a thought for your poor neighbors after the noises that he’d had coming out of your mouth.

Two months and you still aren’t sure what the hell your relationship is.

Each time you’ve thought to ask, you’ve chickened out; the last thing you wanted was to come across as needy and selfish.

At least he’d mentioned that he should be getting a lot more time soon; apparently they were having some issues at his magazine and he’d been putting in extra time to help them out.

Though, you haven’t pried into what kind of work it is, and if it’s related to writing or something else.

That he took the small bits of time he has to seek you out speaks worlds about where this seems to be heading.

“Missing you…I think I left my necklace at your place last time…will you check for me?”

You’d rushed immediately into your room, and sure enough, the gleam of a thin silver chain was looking right back at you from your nightstand.  

You’d admired it plenty of times when he was wearing it, especially the sweet little silver music note dangling from it.

“It’s here, did you need me to bring it to you? Or did you want to stop by for it?”

“Hold onto it for me? I’ll get it next time I see you…”

As you were typing out a response, he’d sent another that had you all but falling from your chair.

“On second thought, why don’t you put it on…then when I see you again, I’ll rip everything from your delicious body except that.  Fuck, baby…just the thought of you wearing only a piece of me has me rock hard.”

You wish you could have been a fly on the wall when he’d received the pic of you lying in bed, sheets draped covertly over just enough to not be straight up porn, clad in only his necklace.

“You mean this necklace?”

His response was almost instant.

“You’re killing me…yes, just like that.  Fuck, I miss you.  Everything about you.”

The playfulness was immediately replaced by a soft, warm feeling at his words, and you found yourself longing to just breathe in his scent again, sooner than later.

You had gently skimmed the charm on the necklace as it lay on your skin, missing him just as much, if not more.

Unfortunately, you hadn’t seen him since that heated little conversation. 

The time between texts had become longer, the messages shorter; mostly just updates about being busy and checking in to see how you were.

That’s why when he hadn’t responded after your last exchange via text, informing you about going out of town yet again, you hadn’t thought much of it.

It was only one morning, feeling more agitated than normal that you realized it had been four days with your last “good morning” message left on unread.

He’s just busy, you admonish yourself, don’t be greedy.  

Yet, when another three days pass with nothing but silence, you can feel the creeping doubts bleeding into everything you’re doing.

You’ve only sent one more text asking if everything is alright, but there was no response to that either.

Did something happen to him? 

How would I even know?

Before you can even think about it you’re pulling up google, only stopping yourself as you realize that you’re about to start stalking the man.

Stop it, don’t be that kind of woman.

It’s only in an exchange while you’re out at a club that you finally build up the courage to ask after him in a roundabout way.

“You guys know alot of people in the fashion world right?” You drop into a random conversation,  “You’d hear about things if something happened to someone, right? Like, some kind of …incident?”

Murmurs of agreement meet you in reply, and you nod, drawing a look from Wooyoung.

“Absolutely, nothing is quiet for long in this industry,” Jimin says offhandedly, and you have to accept that it was highly unlikely that he was in any kind of trouble.

Relief washes over you at that thought, but another, darker feeling was starting to grow in the pit of your stomach.

It’s fine.

“What’s up?” Jungkook asks from beside you, setting down his drink, “Worried about something?”

You wave your hand at your friends, especially the suspicious glances from Wooyoung.  

“No, just curious how chatty that world is.” You fake a laugh, raising your drink to your lips to cover your horrible acting.  

“Don’t worry, Wooyoung is quite the gossip, if something is going on, we’d all know.” Tae offers, drawing out a round of laughter.

He’s right, while you’ve not uttered a word about any connection to Hoseok, you’ve heard his name from these guys a few times in passing regarding their work.

Each time, you’ve gotten that little thrill of knowing that you have this secret between just the two of you, yet now there’s this smoldering ember of doubt to go along with that excitement.

Why hasn’t he responded then?

You slap on a neutral face and do your best to enjoy the outing, clinking glasses with Jungkook and Jimin before joining in the fun.

Yet the gnawing feeling that if nothing is wrong…

Then why haven’t you heard from him?

“Stop lying to me.”

You groan, not wanting to look at the man pestering you right at this moment.

“The others have noticed as well, you know.  You’re not a very good liar.”

“Wooyoung, nothing is-” 

His sudden stomping has you glancing away from your computer screen, jumping as the man in question slams his hands on the desk beside you as he leans over to glare at you.

It’s a rare sight to see Wooyoung actually upset, yet here he was, those dark eyes blazing with worry and exasperation.

“Stop. Lying. To. Me.” He bites off each word, jaw clenched tightly.  

You’ve been fighting off the nagging feeling that Hoseok has just lost interest in the days following your outing.

Wooyoung’s sudden outburst has you finally acknowledging that maybe…just maybe…that horrible fear could be a reality.

Opening your mouth with the intent to allay his concern, a sob escapes your throat instead of words.

You clamp your hand over your mouth, cursing your emotions as your eyes begin to sting.

“Oh, doll…” Wooyoung immediately sinks to his knees, turning your chair towards him as you fight against the floodgates.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to yell at you, I’m just worried.” He soothes, cupping your face as he uses his thumbs to wipe away the villainous tears that start to leak from your eyes.  

He gathers you up in his arms, rubbing your back as you finally break down, clenching a handful of his shirt as you finally let go.

“Something is going on, isn’t it?” he whispers softly, and you can only nod against his shoulder.

He lets out a sigh, humming gently as he continues to comfort you.

“I know getting details is like prying teeth from you, but…I need to know….are you pregnant?”

You hiccup, shaking your head immediately, bleating out a sad little, “no.” 

“Good, good…that’s good…you’re not…sick or anything?” 

You manage another shake of your head.

He breathes out a sigh of relief, letting the sounds of you weeping fill the void for a moment before he continues.

“What’s this asshole's name?” He finally inquires.

“He’s-not-an-asshole-” you choke out.

“There it is. I knew it.” he hums, sighing wearily.

You slap at him weakly, trying to pull away but he just holds you close, shushing you as he pets your hair.

“Well, that’s subjective, doll.  He’s making you cry, so he’s an asshole in my book.”

You babble something incoherent to try to disagree, but he merely tuts at you.  

“For someone who writes novels, you’re not convincing me with your words, doll.  Look, you’re ruining my shirt with your snot, and you sound like a drunk turkey.”  

You hit him again, this time a little harder but you can’t help but snort at the ridiculous insult between your pitiful blubbering.

“Idiot. Jerk.” you grumble, calming down a bit and he finally loosens his hold, drawing back slightly to look closely at you.

“Don’t, I’m all icky.” You complain, turning your head and grabbing for your box of tissues.

“Yeah you are; nasty.” he teases and you just toss him a steely glance as you wipe at your nose.

“Hate you,” you grump, trying to clean yourself up.

“You love me, don’t lie. I told you, you’re bad at it.”  He said, rising to his feet to cross his arms at you.

“Whatever.” You huff, then look up at him in apprehension, “I’m not talking about it.”  

He purses his lips at you, chewing the inside of his cheek as he studies you.

“Fine…I’ll drop it for now, but if you need to, talk to one of us, alright? That’s all I’m asking.  I don’t like seeing you tearing yourself apart for some guy. I don’t know your reasons for keeping him a secret from us, but -” he stops, eyes narrowing.

“He’s not married, is he?”

“Wooyoung!” You grab the box of tissues and throw them at him, but he just dodges it easily, “You really think that I could-that I would-?!” 

You can’t help but sputter unintelligibly, offended.

“No, not you but…whatever, fine, I just can’t help but care, alright?”

You let out a long sigh, rubbing a hand over your eyes. 

“It’s not even something bad, I just haven’t been sleeping and I’m trying to meet deadlines..” you gesture to the computer, “I’m sure that’s just making me overly emotional. I’m alright.”

He stays silent, considering your argument as his phone dings with a message.  

“Get lost, I have work to do,” you wave him off, turning back to your computer.

His answering grunt lets you know that he’s checking his phone and you try to refocus as he grumbles about always having something to deal with.

“I’ll be checking on you, or I’ll send someone-” he threatens as he makes his way out.

“Yeah yeah….and hey…Wooyoung?” you call out before he can close the door behind him.

“Hm?” he turns to look at you, pausing in the doorway.

“Thank you.” You give him a grateful smile, and then he’s grinning, bouncing out down the hall as the door closes.

Now if you could convince yourself that you are completely fine, you can hopefully get some of your projects ticked off your list.

You barely notice how often your eyes drift to look at your phone, clinging to that last vestige of hope that it’ll light up with a much anticipated text.

Perhaps it’s because you’re so used to creating imaginary worlds, shaping fiction out of nothing but your fantasies.

Regardless of what keeps you holding on, there’s that small, almost invisible thread you cling to.

He’s come to some kind of harm, he’s in a coma and any day he will wake up; his first call will be you, and-

No, no, he’s stranded on some desert island, having gone out to sea for some unknown reason but he’s been cut off from-

What if he’s hit his head in some foreign land, and he has amnesia-

Aliens abducted-

If you can think of it, your irrational thoughts grasp onto it eagerly, and by the time you’ve spun up some insane story, you’ve kept that little glimmer of hope alive.

Ridiculous, but it's getting you past it.

Right?

Right?

You’ve gone so long without hearing from him, you find yourself not rushing to your phone each time it has a message or call; your life has returned to the routine you had prior to that fateful night.

Yet….

Yet.

There will be those moments, those tiny little glimpses of memories that spiral you right back into that headspace.

Your fingers graze the silver chain hiding beneath your hoodie, the one keepsake you have to remind you it was all real.

At least while it lasted.

Maybe he will come back for it, at the very least?

Your phone dings and you push away from your desk, glancing at the clock to see that it’s well past midday.

Your stomach rumbles and you pat it as you check your messages.

“Hey, our friend is singing tonight at a show, you should come with us and check it out.  If you’re done being a grump ass!”

You just cluck your tongue at Wooyoung’s text, sighing as you open the fridge and are greeted with empty shelves.

Shit, shopping…yeah I should do that.

You glance at your outfit and momentarily think about changing, but you just shrug.

Who cares if you’re wearing baggy jogging pants and a hoodie? 

It’s not like you’re trying to impress anyone.

Not anymore, your mind tosses at you but you tamp down the errant thought.

You reply to Wooyoung, asking for a rain check as you slip on your shoes and make your way to the local grocery.

A little bit of back and forth with him, then getting prodded in your group chat has you laughing at the guys as you grab a few items to get you through the next few days.

Your eyes are locked on the phone, only glancing up to make sure you’re not going to run into anything as you follow the conversation.

“Next time, he’s got a few shows coming up.  He’s good looking too!” Taehyung adds to the discussion.

“Don’t say that in front of him, we’ll never hear the end of it.” Jungkook retorts.

“As bad as Wooyoung?” You are typing out as you hear the sound of a car horn, drawing your attention away from your phone for a moment.

The amused smile freezes on your face as you look up, unable to miss the familiar face staring back at you.

You just stand in shock, people crossing the street all around you as you cling to the bag in your arms.

There he is, those gorgeous cheekbones, that honey skin, that brilliant smile.

You can only gawk in misery at the truth laid out before you.

Your heart trembles in anguish as the last thread that was clinging on for dear life finally loses its hold.

Of all the places you thought you’d see him again, of all the scenarios…

Seeing his picture plastered on an advertisement for a designer brand wasn’t in your rolodex of possibilities.

The massive ad seems to grow larger, as if it’s going to suffocate you.

You’re jostled back to your senses as people grumble at you, questioning randomly why you’re in their way and you grip your bag tightly as you duck your head and rush back home.

By the time you’re slamming your apartment door, as if you can flee from the internal distress twisting your guts.

You mindlessly shuffle into the kitchen, staring off blankly as you think about how amazing he looked, how absolutely fucking breathtaking.

Your hand drifts up to tug at the neck of your hoodie.

Your stomach lurches, and you rush into the bathroom, leaning over the sink as you fight back the urge to get sick.

I should be happy that he’s fine.

Good for him, right?

It’s just a fucking picture.

It’s not like we were ever anything.

Right?

We never actually dated.

I was just a fling.

Then why-?

You glance up at the mirror, wincing at your reflection staring back at you.

The unkempt mess you present contrasts so drastically to that polished, stunning man that you can’t help but let out a bitter laugh.

“You’re a fool.” 

It’s absurd.

Of course, you knew from the beginning that you’d slept with a stranger.

What did you expect?

It’s not like he told me anything untrue.

He didn’t lie, right?

He said he missed me.

So?

Maybe he missed the sex.

Did I really think he was going to date me?

But he made time for me…

Did he? 

Was he really that busy?

I’m so naive.

You let out an exhausted sigh, collecting your thoughts before finally running the water and splashing your face with the cold liquid.

Your brain just keeps going in circles as you dry your face and hands, arguing against that stupid little voice that keeps trying to make excuses.

You don’t even bother putting away the groceries, finding yourself burrowing into your bed as if you can hide from your shame.

As you close your eyes to the world, you tug once more on the neck of your hoodie.

You freeze as you realize that it’s not the hoodie you’re touching.

It was his fucking necklace encircling your throat.

Clawing at it furiously, you sit up and finally manage to unclasp it, flinging it away from you as if it’s on fire.  

With a pathetic whimper, you retreat back under your covers as if that’s some kind of remedy.

Don’t care right now.

You’d somehow twisted up a simple physical affair into some kind of romantic fantasy in your mind.

Did you really think this was some love story?

Guilt at your misunderstanding wars with resentment towards him, but you know that’s not fair.

Still….

How stupid I am.

He’s just fine.

He’s just perfectly fucking fine.

And I’m a complete mess.