#bts work

“Tae?”

The man next to you grunts, telling you he’s listening.

You keep your eyes trained on his chest. “Do you ever think we should stop doing this?” You whisper it, so quietly you aren’t sure if he can hear it, but he does.

His grip around you tightens ever so slightly, but you don't notice, too consumed in your own thoughts to be aware of the way he is looking at you. “What do you mean?”, Taehyung asks softly. Heart racing, you find it hard to continue. You hate this. Hate how he made you feel things. Hate that he makes you feel things. His thumb moves in circles on your waist in an attempt to soothe you, but it has the opposite effect. 

Before you can chicken out, you swallow and take a deep breath. “Us. This whole sleeping together thing. I..I just don't think I can keep doing it. Not when we want different things out of this. Out of each other.”

Feeling braver, you lift your head to stare at his face only to find his eyes already piercing right through yours, extinguishing the little bit of courage you had and causing you to mumble out your next words.

“Maybe we should just end...us.”

Averting your gaze from his, you try to steady your breathing, praying he doesn’t notice you shaking ever so slightly. You already know Taehyung will never be yours to keep. He never was in the first place, no matter how badly you wanted him to be. Afraid to look into his eyes, fear creeps into your heart and roots itself deep within its core. You know they'll tell you truths too difficult to bear, truths so soul crushing that if they were to be uttered out loud, you would be destroyed. 

Taehyung is silent for a few moments, and it absolutely terrifies you. What are you scared of? Him agreeing and ending your little arrangement? Or him telling you that he wants to continue? Either way, the answer you’re looking for is one you’ll never get. There’s no doubt he wants you. But you’re certain it's never going to be in the way you want him. You’re exhausted, tired of keeping up this charade that you’re fine with just being with him physically, going on some little rendezvous at night to maintain the secrecy of your relationship. You’re tired of pretending you feel nothing when he gazes at you, touches you, kisses you, leaves you. You’re tired of pretending you aren’t in love with him. 

“Y/N.”

You can’t bring yourself to look at him. What will your eyes tell him if he were to peer into them? They say the eyes are the windows to the soul, and your soul is so helplessly intertwined with his, the chances of him not being able to read you effortlessly are zero to none. 

“Yes?”, you shakily let out, cursing yourself for letting your tone betray you.  

A hand on your cheek instantly makes you snap your head up, and finally, your eyes meet his again. This time, you can’t find it in yourself to look away. You always get lost in them, but this time it's different. Mysterious and enchanting, always so clouded and dark, now they seem clear, light, vulnerable almost. You continue to gaze into them, searching for something, anything, that could give you any idea as to what is racing through his head. And then, time stops. You get a tiny glimpse of what is beyond the clouds, beyond the barriers he had put up to protect himself, and it is infinitely more breathtaking than anything you could possibly imagine. There are galaxies. Constellations. Endless stars and beautiful nebulas that glitter and twinkle brighter with every slow blink. Constantly changing and growing, showing you his deepest wants and aching desires. You wonder what he sees when he looks into your eyes. The thought barely has time to be processed within you before the celestial wonders disappear as his eyes close and his lips are on yours.

He kisses you, slow and soft, so tender and filled with passion that your heart aches. In the good way. As you two part, all you are able to feel is the rising and falling of his chest, the fast beat of his heart, and the brush of his thumb over your lip. Once more, you look up and meet his eyes. You're no longer scared of what you’ll see. Tensions rolling away, you see it. Your answer. 

No words need to be exchanged, his eyes say more than enough. They speak louder than he could ever shout, burning brighter than any alkaline earth metal could ever dare to. 

Despite you already knowing, he smiles, pulling you closer.

Without causing a scene, he shifted his eyes over to the rendezvous. He noticed the wild hands and could even hear the disgusting sounds coming from Yate’s grimy lips. The small trail of saliva, like a snail’s slime trail, glistened thickly from the spotlight. I let go when Yates shifted me on his lap, so I sat directly on his lumpy crotch. He lowly grinded against my ass, trying to fill every curve with himself. My face scrunched in disgust from his small chub. I attempted to lean away, but his grip on my hips was strong.

Jungkook bounced his leg and fiddled his thumb over his watch; time was going too slow. Once the auctioneer finished his intro speech, a cage emerged from the depths of the stage. The metal device raised, clanking with every turn of the rusty mechanism, and exposed the anxious panther to the arena. The panther was thin, but evidence of his once muscular stature was obvious. The hybrid crouched, stalking the host. The host mirrored by rounding about the cage, taunting the beast. The host spun to the audience, “ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the shadow of the jungle, the Panther!” The host started the auction at a low price of $350,000. Gentlemen raised their paddles and the auctioneer called out prices; slowly the bid rose. “Do I hear, $500,00? Going once, going twice…,” he searched the audience waiting for the bets to rise, but no offers were made.

Yates grumbled in my ear, cursing under his breath, the pacing was too slow for him, so he moved me out of his lap and stood up. He turned towards the audience, “that’s how you’re setting the tone for the night ladies and gentlemen? I think this show should start off with a bang! A real wow factor, who will be the brave hero and take the glory!” He waved around a glass of champagne cheering the sky awaiting a fool to spend their money. A paddle towards the back of the room raised and called out, “$800,000!” Yates swung his arm, spilling half the contents in his cup, “that’s the spirit!” He sat back down and pulled me into his lap whispered, “sucker”.

I couldn’t help it, I couldn’t take my eyes off the panther. The distress in his eyes wasn’t different from mine.  I started to lose confidence, will Jungkook chicken out and not save us? Was there really help on the way? Was this a set up?

I was taken out of my thoughts when wandering hands became more daring. His fingers traced the jewels on my stomach. He nudged at my ear with his nose, “Kitty, can you be a good girl for me?” His breath smelled heavily of alcohol and cigarettes that it was almost inhuman. I remained unresponsive, so he took my breast in both hands groping tightly. I whimpered loudly enough for the others at the table to turn, but Yates was unashamed and bravado about his action. I lowered my head, blocking my face from onlookers, this was too much. Yates released his grip when a final price was called, “sold! At 1.2 million dollars!” Yates cheered loudly and turned to Jungkook patting him on the back, “told you a million would be a piece of cake.” Jungkook smiled at Yates, who laughed like a child at a candy store, then turned to the helpless cat in the bastard’s lap. The moment I locked eyes with Mr. Shin I knew the sternness in his eyes meant more than words could ever express. Maybe it was an animal thing? Something you could feel in the air? I knew whatever it was, he was going to protect us…me.

The lights went out a second time; the tides were going to change.

The lights took longer than anticipated to come back on. The audience in the dark began to murmur. The hair on my arms rose in goosebumps. Yate called out towards the direction of the stage, “what’s the hold up?” When the lights switched back on, guards were being held in a chokehold. S.W.A.T surrounded the edges of the arena with their guns up ready at will. In the center of the arena Captain Im held the auctioneer in a chokehold. The Rottweiler kept a stoic face as he released the unconscious auctioneer, who dropped to the floor with a thud, stared straight at Yates. The Rottweiler cooed, “times up, Yates.”

Under his breath Yates muttered out, “shit.” He tossed me off his lap, unceremoniously tossed me to the floor, running away towards an escape. In a split-second reaction, I grabbed the edge of his pant leg and dragged along with him for a step before I tripped Master. Chaos ensued, masked figures ran, and guards raced towards officers. Master kicked me in the jaw and out of reflex I released with a yelping in pain. One of Mr. Shin’s associate rounded the table and helped me up. I thanked him before he left to join the rumble. Jungkook stood with his hands in his pocket and walked towards the man clawing away at the floor. He walked calmly taking a hand out of his pocket and pulled the wig off exposing his long ears. He dropped the wig and slammed his foot dead center on Yates. The rotund man grunted mumbling out, “you fucker! You set me up this whole time! Fuck you, Shin!” Jeon laughed, “sorry Yates, but not--,” Jungkook dipped when a Doberman swung at him.

Jungkook lifted same foot off Yates’s back and swung his leg round housing the guard. Yates took advantage of the distraction, taking the moment to escape. I stood off the side as I watched two Doberman’s trying to join into the fight between Jungkook and the guard. I looked around at nearby table and yanked the table cloth towards me. I pulled the iron pan, holding a lit candle, towards me dismounting the candle. I blew out the candle and following the momentum of my turn, I splashed the hot wax over the approaching guards. They howled out in pain and while they were inebriated I smashed them across the face with the pan. By the time I turned around to Jungkook, he was racing after Yates. He called back to me, “Kitty, get to safety! I’ll come for you soon!”

I looked around the room and found his associates with their wigs off, fighting against the guards. They were canines after all. The Rottweiler, at the epicenter of the riot, was deep in battle. I was off no use here, I needed to get out of the arena. Luna, Luna, Luna. I zig zagged through the tables, making way back towards the employee’s staff door. I hopped over disgruntled guards, zipping past airborne punches and ran to press up against the metal door. I stumbled into a silent, empty hallway. In the distance I could hear the shouting voices of the kitchen staff. I gathered the ends of my pleated robe into my arms and ran down the bleak hall. The fluorescent lights flashed in blimps above me. I could feel my heartbeat thrumming in my ears, pounding with each step forward. I almost skid into the wall as I turned towards the stairs. I leapt two steps at a time into the kitchen. The kitchen staff was stealing whatever they could from the Kitchen, making their way out of the estate. I made it past the thieves and ran towards the first-floor hallways.

I called out to Luna, hoping for a response amongst the sea of scattering individuals. I opened rooms calling into each, but there wasn’t an answer. I shoved on and felt my throat tightening with each unsuccessful door. I began pushing past sweaty individuals, where could she have gone? I heard an officer in the lobby call out, “all hybrids, please move to the courtyard!” No, not yet, I had to find Luna. I changed my direction and ran towards the stairs taking the right side up. I stopped on the landing momentarily looking up to the obnoxious portrait of a man whom I once called Master. My heels were becoming painful and slowing me down, so I ripped them off gripping the throat of each shoe. With all the force I could conjure up, I lunged the shoe directly at the painting, grunting with the toss. The second shoe landed in an eye, I shouted at the painting, “take that!” I picked up my robe again and continued up the stairs. I ran down the hall looking left and right, “Luna! Please, baby, come out! Where are you Luna? Luna!”

The hallway seemed to twist bringing me further into the vortex. As I approached the end of the hall I heard rustling, it was faint, but I heard it. I slowed listening in closer twisting and turning my ears to accommodate for the sound. I came closer to a storage closet and outstretched my hand holding onto the knob of the handle and depressed. A small, frightened kitten looked up at me through long coats crying out, “Mama!” I drop to my knees bringing the scrambling kitten into my embrace rocking her back and forth, “we’re going to be okay. We’re going to be okay. We’re going to be okay.”

I lost track of time, I held Luna in my arms until men in Kevlar vest approached us. “Miss, Miss?” I turned towards the voices and recognized the figures, “Miss, I’m officer Wang and this is Officer Bhuwakul. We’re here to take you to safety.” I pulled away from Luna wrapping her hand in mine lifting her up. They offered us a smile, “you’ve done well.” We followed them out of the house blinded by the flashing blue and red lights. Officers of different kinds surround vehicles apprehending different creatures that disguised themselves as humans. Two busses sat just beyond the cars, Officer Wang and Bhuwakul escorted us towards the bus. I looked towards one of the vans catching a glimpse of Mr. Shin shoving Yates into the back and slamming the door shut. Shin looked like he went for a light jog compared to the wreck that Yates was. Mistress was fighting in the holds of different officers, “I’m innocent! Let go of me you filthy mongrels! Yates, explain to them!” No one, much less Yates, bothered to give her an answer or sympathy, and just shoved her into one of the many filled police vehicles. Jungkook dusted his hands off smoothing his ears down. He turned to me, smiling for a moment, before the Rottweiler called him,” Cottontail!”

We walked towards an officer standing outside the bus doors. We waited in line watching as he took down information and gave out a temporary ID code. I pushed the kitten forward and allowed her to board first. After they took the little information I could offer, I turned to the two escorts, “thank you, truly, thank you.” I offered a smile and the tails of the officers wagged excitedly. “No problem, Miss,” maintaining professionalism they saluted trying to be serious, but their tails were a huge contrast from how serious they attempted to be. For the first time in a long time, I laughed, genuinely laughed. I boarded the bus finding my seat next to the smiling kitten. Her white ears were twitching, and I couldn’t help but mimic the slight twinge of excitement. I didn’t know what was going to happen next, but Luna wasn’t in danger anymore, and that’s all that mattered.

Last night we were taken to a hospital, before being transported to the station. Even though it took hours, all of us had a routine medical exam. The doctors were accommodating and patient with us, putting up with the hisses and thumping. With as much resources they could offer us, they handed out mismatched scrubs to wear instead of our “uniforms”. I discarded the robe and leotard as soon as I received something more appropriate to wear. As soon as I slipped on the pair of pants and shirt, I felt safe. We spent the night in a large room where some slept on beds while others slept on futons. They had nowhere else to put us for the night. If freedom awaits, one more night sleeping on the floor was nothing.

The following morning all of us were loaded back on the bus and taken to the police station. In a single file line, we shuffled towards a waiting room attached to the offices of all the unit operations. They took a hybrid, one at a time, to have an officer help dictate their future. Luna rested her head on my shoulder sleeping softly with light rises and falls to her chest. I pulled her closer when real criminals walk by in cuffs glaring at us. I stroked the back of my knuckles against her cheek to evoke a rumbling purr from her throat. She will always be precious, my little moon.  

An officer walked towards the rows flipping through papers on his clipboard, “89? Is 89 here?” I raised my hand letting him know I’m here. I shook Luna slightly waking her, “it’s my turn I’ll be right back.” Her eyes opened wide, dilating to a full black, and lunged at my arm, “no! Don’t leave me!” I looked back to the officer, who’s taped his pen against the clipboard, impatiently checking his watch. “I’ll only be gone for a few seconds…,” I pleaded to her, but she wasn’t having it. In full tantrum, she played dirty by giving me those eyes weren’t possible to say no to. I caved in taking her hand in mine muttering, “the things I do for you Luna.” I walked towards the officer with my tail between my leg, “can she come along with me?” He looked back to the crowded station and sighed, “ma’am, unless she’s related, I can’t allow that.” Her grip on my hand tightened and a loud whine left her. She stomped her feet causing the officers eyebrows to scrunch in irritation, “what’s her number?” She answered for me, “88.” He bite his lip contemplating and weighing the pros and cons. I could feel the hesitation, so I pulled the sympathy card on him, “she’s my baby, please, just let her be with me.” His attitude takes a 180 and changes fast, “oh, oh, o—okay. Why didn’t you say so earlier? Go over to officer Jeon, the third desk in in the hybrid unit.”

I bowed politely to the officer in respect and lead Luna’s towards the hybrid department. The overhanging sign read out “Hybrid Unit,” so we followed to the third desk in. A man was crouched down rummaging through bottom cabinets, “excuse me…officer Jeon?” The clumsy man banged his head on an open drawer, “ouch, God, why do I keep hitting that?” He scooted and righted himself in his flimsy chair. It took a second, even blinking a few times, before I recognized him. It was Mr. Shin…. but this man wasn’t Mr. Shin? I looked him over, up and down, but I’m sure this was or should be Officer Shin. The buck stood up looming over us, but this time around with no façade introduced himself, “hello, let me introduce myself properly, I’m officer Jeon Jungkook, not Mr. Shin. It’s nice to meet you both.” I couldn’t stop staring at him. The rex rabbit’s ears stood at attention matching his brown hair. His sharp jawline was prickled by a five o’clock shadow. I couldn’t place my eyes on a single spot jumping from his doe brown eyes, buck front teeth, and scar on his cheek. It should’ve been obvious that was an alias. I offered him a smile nudging Luna to do the same babbling out, “yes, yes, it’s nice to meet you, officer Jeon.” He pointed his hand towards nearby chairs offering us both a seat, “Jungkook, Jungkook will do just fine. This must be…your daughter, right?”

I turned to Luna, who’s eyes could barely stay open, then back to officer Jeon, “No, but I take care of her as if she was. She’s my little moon…my Luna.” A smiled erupted across him, showing off his teeth to me. To him the resemblance was uncanny between the both of you, it was more shocking to hear there wasn’t a relation. He spoke lowly to me, “I’m sorry I didn’t find you immediately afterwards. I had some legalities to take care of. I want to thank you for helping.” I held up my hands and shook them in defiance, “no, no, no, I did nothing. Thank you for saving everyone.”

The love in the beautiful cat eyes was infectious. Jungkook wanted to embrace her and promise her the world. She was the sweetest and had the most courage he’s seen in any being, man or animal. Her selflessness was aweing. Despite her knowing the cold from being cradled by the devil, she still shined brighter than the sun. She was a angel walking on Earth. With adoration in his eyes, he stated proudly, “it’s my job to protect you. Don’t thank me.”

He shook the mouse of his computer waking it, “alright, let’s get this figured out.” Jungkook opened a registration form on his desktop and tabbed to the first line. One of his ears flopped carelessly, while the other stood at attention. His head swayed to a tune he hummed as he typed in generic biographic info. Officer Kim walked by with a steaming cup of joe in his hands, “morning guys…and misses.” I turned to the lab and caught myself staring a bit too long. Seeing them with their features still took me by surprise. The lab noticed and cheekily winked towards me. I looked away with a sunburnt type of blush covering my cheeks. Jungkook takes a sip of his coffee, amused at her expression, and cheers it towards his partner, “morning Yugyeom.” Jungkook sat his coffee down and while studying the screen asked, “name?” His humming stopped when there wasn’t a response. He glanced over to the blank cat as she stopped stroking her Kitten. I answered earnestly in a low tone, “I don’t have one.” To clear his tightening throat, he sipped his coffee again. Without provoking insult, he raised his eyebrows over the brim of his cup, “no name? Nothing you went by?” I shook my head slowly, “they called the cats kitty and the rabbits bunny; it was straightforward.” Anger boiled thickly within him, like molasses, rumbling along with an inner growl. He rested an elbow on the desk, running his hand through his hair to calm himself. He stuck his tongue against his inner cheek, “they didn’t give you names.” He enunciated each word pointedly. It wasn’t a question, but a statement. Yates. When he gets the chance to interrogate him, he’s going to make sure the surveillance cameras are conveniently off. Depriving someone so basic and toying with their dignity... the vile creature dares to breathe!

I shied away sensing the change in his diction. I didn’t want to be punished for not having a name. Luna whined slightly, curling towards me when I stopped petting her. Jungkook lowered his hand and softened his eyes, going back to an affable buck, “no. No, I’m not upset with you. I’m sorry. I—I just,” he couldn’t finish his statement without wanting to growl out an angry grunt. Settling his expression, he sat back biting his lip in thought. A name?

A light bulb went off in his head showing in his eyes; he turned back to his computer, typing fast. He pressed enter and sat back, he puckered his lips in disapproval and then randomized once more. He still wasn’t satisfied with the result, it didn’t suit her, so he pressed once more. This time his expression didn’t seem to strongly disagree. He twisted the edges of his desktop towards the both of you and waiting eagerly. “I used a random name generator to pick a name for you. Do you like this one?” I read the screen testing the name out in my mind different ways, “Y/N Y/L/N. Y/N Y/L/N. Y/N Y/L/N.” I had to jumble it on my tongue out loud. The more I said it, the more I liked it. A name! My very own name! A name! I nodded my head like a bobble toy, “yes, yes, I like it very, very, very much!” A short, breathy laugh left him, and for the first time you heard, “It’s nice to meet you Ms. Y/L/N.” I cheekily smiled, “Y/N would be just fine.”

It sent tingles down my spine hearing my name, my name, spoken by someone else. Luna tested it on her lips, twitching her ears at each syllable, “that’s the one Mama!” Jeon couldn’t help smiling along with this little family, unconditional love radiated between them. It was something he’s always looked for. He blinked away the giggly image in front of him and turned back to the form. He asked how old you were and other biographic information he couldn’t guess. Once he reached the end of the form, he scooted back to the filing cabinet and fished out two sets of thick documents. He placed the documents face downwards, “Y/N, regardless of what you choose you will be given an identification card along with a social security. I want you to really think over the options I’m about to give to you.”

I nodded waiting for him to continue. “You have two choices you can take from here. The first option is being assigned a shelter and awaiting adoption to another home to live out the rest of your life under a new owner.” I looked at him expectantly, letting the first option go in and out my ears, waiting for my next option. “The second option is applying for D.A.H.; D.A.H. is deferred action for hybrids. It’s a policy set up by the government to give hybrids, conditionally, a way of living life without ownership.” I lit up, that’s what I wanted! He continued placing a hand over the documents,” but there’s a catch, under D.A.H. you have to pursue education and receive a high school equivalent diploma at minimum. From there you can pursue higher education or obtain a job. It’s to provide evidence to the government that you are self-sustainable. The policy will give you a residency card and the ability to live without ownership after maintaining proficiency under the program for a few years.”

This! This was what I’ve always been looking for! I could provide a home, a way of life and stability for Luna. I couldn’t contain my happiness, “yes! Yes! This is exactly what I want!” Jungkook smiled at her enthusiasm, and slid a packet towards Y/N, but retracted suddenly. In warning, “the filing process takes about two weeks and then you will be given government housing until you find a job. In the meantime, you will be asked to stay at a shelter until you have been formally admitted into the program.” There it was…that made me hesitate for a second. I would have to live in a shelter…again. However, my first concern was, “Luna, can she apply to this program as well?” Jungkook nodded, “yes, she can. However, how old are you sweetie?” He turned to Luna who stared at the ceiling in wonder, so Y/N answered for her, “thirteen.” He filtered through the files to reassure himself, “she is still young enough to take a placement test and be admitted into regular public education. Same to earlier, she will have to keep her promise to work and better herself to maintain a residency card.”

I looked towards Luna making sure she was following along, but her eyes bolted left and right fast searching for answers. I simplified it for her, “Luna, if you sign up you can go to school. Do you want to go to school and live with me?” Her eyes lit up like stars against the night sky, and her white ears twitched excitedly, “really officer Jeon! I can go to school!” He laughed at her innocence, “yes, Luna, you can go to school.” I elaborated, “like I said, it will take a few weeks to file the paperwork, but when that’s done you can go to school, okay?” She nodded turning towards officer Jeon with the same smile. He pushed the packets towards us, “sign here…here…,” flipping the pages twice, “here…here… and done.” He picked up the documents, “all that’s left is sorting you out to a shelter for the mean time.” He scrolled through the list of shelters in the local area. He scrunched up his face thumping his one leg against the floor, “my friend runs a shelter, but there’s only one opening left. Would either of you like to go there?”

Luna stood in fright, “no, no, I can’t be without Mama. I don’t want to be alone.” Jungkook stood along with her, calming her down urging her to sit. “Okay, we’ll find a better spot.” He kept scrolling looking for a shelter that had enough openings, but the only one available was a city away. “I found one that has openings for two more.” Before selecting admit, he opened a registration form for Luna. He followed the same questions with her, “I want the last name as Mama!” Jeon turned to her with a cheeky smile, “good choice, kiddo.” He turned to me wiggling his brows as if her choice wasn’t obvious enough. He submitted the applications, transferring the information to the shelter and D.A.H. program. “I will need to mail these in physically, but the basics should be covered. The shelter will let you know when all processing has been complete. In a few weeks’ time you will be transferred to housing and start on your way to freedom Y/N.” I shifted in my seat with excitement, “thank you for all you’ve done.”

He wrote down on two sticky notes the same shelter ID number, then stood up straightening his clothing out. He shook both our hands, “the pleasure was all mine Luna…and Y/N.” He held my hand longer releasing and gliding our fingers against eachother. He pointed towards another officer, “follow Officer Wang and give him that number. He will know where to take you. Goodbye and good luck.” The golden retriever who was already waving in our direction. I didn’t want to leave so soon, but I responded none the less, “goodbye, Jungkook.” I swished my tail in happiness.

He watched as Y/N walked away with a pep in her step and Luna jumped for joy; finally something kids her age should be doing. He couldn’t help it as his smile reached his ears. His cottontail waged along with Y/N’s white, long tail. Officer Kim left his desk and came over to Jeon’s desk, sitting on the edge playing with paper weights. “God, will you stop with the googly eyes? I feel like I always catch you staring at women.” Jungkook scoffed at the lab, “I just care about my victims.” Yugyeom rolled his eyes, “sure, sure, just like that time you kissed that lawyer, right?” Jungkook sputtered out his spit, “that was conditional! Besides, she’s a close friend and it meant nothing. Mostly importantly, I can’t come in between that thing she’s got going on with Taehyung.” Yugyeom was taken aback, “there’s something go on between them?” Jungkook shrugs, “not explicitly, but it’s hard to ignore the way Taehyung looks at her and he asks every opportunity he gets what we talk about.”

Humming in though Yugyeom changed the subject, pointing to the now empty waiting room, ”what shelter they get?” Jungkook looked towards his best friend, “Riverwood County Shelter.” Officer Kim almost dropped the weight, “recent reports came out from there with abuse claims. They’re still under investigation, but with the way--.” Yugyeom couldn’t finish his statement, Jungkook was already rounding the corner. He ran, pumping his thick thighs as fast as he could, channeling his agility to reach Y/N as fast as possible. By the time he made it outside the buses were already out of the parking lot. He runs his hands in his hair in frustration. He didn’t have any jurisdiction once she was gone. He would have to keep tabs on them until they get sectioned into housing. As he watched nothing he asked himself over and over again how he could have not known. He can’t let them go through that again, never again.

We boarded a small bus with a few other familiar faces. The journey was about an hour and forty-five minutes from the station. The area slowly turned from cityscape to a forest, then a suburban town. It had a true quaint, home town feel. The bus stopped in front of a white building somewhere in the center of the town. The seven of us evacuated being welcomed by a few staff members. They went through roll call calling and accounting for us. The disinterest in their tone was alarming, but I passed it off as exhaustion.

We followed them through the entrance into a hallway, they then further divided the males and females. The males were taken to a different ward on the opposite side. We, the four of us, followed a staff member into a large room with rows of bunkbeds along the walls. They asked us to pick our own beds that weren’t already taken. As a typical teenager Luna chose a top bunk. I preferred to be on the bottom anyways, I needed to be grounded. This place reminded me too much of our last home. Luna was too young to remember that place, but I will never forget.

The staff member called us to stand at attention near the edge of our beds. “Ladies, you’ll find your pant and shirt set folded at the end of your bed. I will come around giving each of you a bracelet. If you’re a D.A.H. applicant, make sure you get the blue bracelet.” She stopped at each hybrid typing information on a tablet and printed to a sticker instantly. She pulled out a tamper resistant snap ID band and stuck the ID sticker onto the band. We were officially branded and tagged like cattle. The staff member was smart enough to locked it around the non-dominant hand. We were the only ones to have blue bands in our group. This was going to be a long two weeks.

The first week at the shelter wasn’t easy. I was often confused and mistook the shelter staff like I was living at the estate. The female staff was cattier than the cat hybrids themselves. Whenever I noticed a staff member harassing a hybrid, I stepped in mediating the situation. I would pull the hybrid away from the situation as calmly as possible. They often looked at me with a glare, but they didn’t know the taste of leather. I would often find myself watching from the two-way window in the interior hallway, peering into the “play room” at the hybrids to be adopted. I watched the children and adults congregate in the same room and observe as spectators would come by picking from the crop. In my short time here, I found out there was more green and only few blue bracelet holders. This made me stand by and watch the others. I would wonder, would that be a better option? Should I have chosen that life for myself and Luna again? Would I be happier? Somedays a few would leave, other days no one left. Luna came up behind me, squeezing me in a back hug, “Mama, what are you doing?” I looked at her and cupped her face rotating my thumb on the apples of her cheek, “nothing, my love. Let’s go back to our room, okay?” The innocent light within her never dimmed, even if the ones around her grew darker.

That night I couldn’t sleep, in fact I couldn’t sleep well ever since we’ve arrived. I tossed and turned in my bunk. Out of frustration I got up, sitting in my narrow bed. Everyone else was asleep, so I tipped toed towards the door and cracked it open. I needed a distraction. We weren’t allowed up to wander at night, so I stayed within the shadows. I listened and watched the hallway; stilling all my movements except to twist and turn my ears to listen for life. I closed the door further when I heard footsteps nearing. I left a sliver open and leaned my ear against the door eavesdropping into the soft murmur of the voices. “When is the order due?” A male voice asked, causing the other half of the pair to pause. “Soon, by tomorrow morning the latest. We won’t have enough hybrids to adopt out to the customer, so I’m thinking we can change some of the blues to green. It’s just a few hybrids, no one cares about them.” They laughed nudging the other, “you’re right; file it tonight then.”

I slumped to the floor as they rounded the corner. It was happening again. My eyes narrowed, ears flattened, and my tail curled around my waist. But not again, not this time, not ever. I rotated the bracelet around to the snaps and pulled and pulled making my wrist blister red until the plastic snapped. I tossed it under someone’s bed and jogged softly towards Luna. I climbed the short ladder and shook her awake whispering harshly, “wake up, Luna, wake up.” I couldn’t take everyone with me, so I had to get away and find help. She blinked lazily towards me, “Mama? What’s wrong?” I shushed her and climbed down. Over the banister I tossed her slip-on canvas shoes, and slipping mine on as quietly as possible, “put these on.” She put them on obediently, but still waited for me to answer her, “Mama, what’s going on?” I shushed her again and helped her climb down the ladder reducing sound as much as possible. I looked her in the eyes, “we have to leave, now.” Her eyes widened, “what’s wrong?” I shook my head, “later, just follow me.” I could tell she had a million questions, but there wasn’t time for that. We had to get out of here, and fast. The night staff were few compared to the regular day staff, so this was our only chance.

I pulled her behind me, tightening my sweaty hand in hers creeping towards the door again. During my time here, I’ve learned the hallways and the spaces of frequency; old habits die hard. I waited again for a second passing of the night watch. Once they rounded the corner and the steps were far enough, we crept into the hallway sticking to the wall. We edged closer to the main lobby, hiding in dark shadows of allowing staff to pass. Receptionist sat at the front desk, one of them was already asleep and the other had her face buried in a novel munching on treats. I was banking on their indifference to the world around them. The front door was right here!

I turned to Luna holding my finger up to my lip and pointed towards the door. She nodded and wrapped her tail around her waist tightly like mine. We crouched, creeping, step by step along the curve of the front desk. The front door was less than ten steps away, but it felt like a million miles away. I peeked over the edge of the desk making sure the two were still fully distracted and crouched again when the coast was clear.

With a silent deep breath, I held onto that and crept forward, fast and calculated towards freedom. I pushed the door open letting Luna go through first and looked back to make sure we still were in the clear. I crab walked out the door through the small crack out into the cold of the night. I allowed the door to close holding it carefully with two hands, but it wasn’t silent. It dinged close. My heart dropped, so I abandoned stealth and grabbed Luna’s hand and ran into the night. I caught a brief glimpse of the receptionist dropping her book in shock pointing towards us, “Stop right there!”

It wasn’t long before I heard the barking of hounds following us and sirens. We had to get away, we’re not livestock! We ran through the empty streets passing by neon illuminated store front signs. The small, suburban downtown ended after a few blocks, falling into a residential area. I pulled Luna with me towards a home, jumping over the fence into someone’s back yard. I figured it would be harder to chase if they had to go through obstacles. We hoped over a few more fences, trailing through different yards, and ended up on another side street. There was a dense tree line just beyond the homes, so I yelled to Luna, “Luna, keep running baby. Don’t slow down okay!” In pants she mumbled out a sound similar to yes and kept towards the forest.

We kept moving forward driven by the sounds of the dogs. Our feet tripped and slipped every now then, but our momentum and will was stronger. My heart was beating so fast, all sounds just blended and rang into a high pitch white noise. To our side we could see the flickering of flashlights in the distance, so I clenched my teeth harder and thrusted with all my might. We ran and ran until we passed a patch of mud. I stopped Luna asking her to follow my lead. I ripped her badge with my trembling hands. Our thin, canvas scrubs carried our scents, if we leave them here we can gain an advantage. When we were fully stripped, I buried the contents under some tree foliage. The air was crisp against our nude bodies, but it would help mislead the hounds. I picked up mud and began rubbing it all over her then myself haphazardly. This wouldn’t help for long, but it was something. Luna’s scent was dulled to my sensitive nose. I grabbed her hand again and began running again. My thighs screamed in protest, but this was something that quickly became secondary. The further into the forest the frantic sounds became nothing more than a distant echo. We slowed when the sounds were silent and the only thing we could hear, and smell was ourselves. I searched around our standing for something to act like a shelter. In search I noticed a rock configurated that had a small cave. I lead her into the cavern after checking for any dangers and held Luna close to me. We were both panting and trembling. I cupped over our mouths attempting to silence our breathes. I pet her head in comfort. My muscles ached from overuse and lungs felt like they were on fire. I waited and waited for hours for the hounds and pound officers, but none came by.

I slumped to the floor carrying Luna with me. She was already fast asleep on my chest, so I shifted carefully. I found sleep difficult, waking up at every small sound. When day broke, I watched for a while, until the sun was in the sky. We eased out of the cave inspecting our surroundings. Luna finally ask me through a groggy voice, “why are we running Mama?” Without looking back, “they wanted to sell us again.” She remains silent but caught up to me sliding her hand in mine. She whispered, “I love you, Mama.” I smiled choking back the knot in my throat, “forever and always.”

We walked for miles and through the trees we noticed a cabin. Behind the cabin clothes hung on a clothes line fresh laundry filling the area with fresh aromas. We hid behind trees watching for any sign of life in the windows. When I noticed no movement I commanded, “stay here. I’ll get us some clothes.” She whined but let go of my hand to cling to the oak tree. I stepped towards the house watching carefully, stayed light on my toes. The dried mud on my skin made my moves rigid, but gave me some camouflage.

I crept through a dead garden and came up to the drying laundry. I unhooked a damp, long shirt, I was able to smell the male owner still on it and looked for anything else to fit. I heard the backdoor creak open and an older woman stepped out. She dropped her basket and uttered, ”oh! Oh my, hello.” I stepped back hissing at her clutching the once clean shirt to my dirty body. In a calm, collected voice, “I mean no harm, dear. I want to help you. Don’t run, please.” I didn’t trust her and just kept creeping backwards stepping over dead vegetation. She began, “I—I once had a daughter named Aure. She was like you, a shifter…but she’s been gone for a while. I can’t sit back and do nothing about it again. My husband is gone. Let me help you.” I paused, mulling over her words. She had someone like us. Maybe, we could trust her. I relaxed a bit straightening up from my hunched position. I looked towards Luna and the older woman clues in, “oh, you have a friend?” I didn’t respond, but she nods anyways, “they’re more than welcome to come as well.”

Luna emerged from behind the tree coming to cling to me. I turned to the old woman,” can we please get some clothing and we’ll be on our way?” She scrunches her brows, “that’s nonsense. You must wash up first, then I will give you something to wear.” I hesitated, but Luna was trembling violently from the cold. I couldn’t let her get sick. I complied then, “okay, thank you.” She led us into the empty house directing us towards the bathroom. I’ve never smelled this heavenly combination of cinnamon and vanilla before, somehow, it felt like home; even if I never knew what that was like, I just knew. “Let me take that shirt from you dear, I will put fresh clothing outside the door for you both. Aure left some clothing here, I’m sure you’ll fit her stuff, so collect it when you’re done.” I nodded to her waiting for the moment of change in her, but it never came. I offered another thank you and slipped into the bathroom. I even locked the door to ease my conscious.

We showered together ensuring that every last bit of mud went down the drain, and as promised fresh clothes was outside the door. We walked into the living room where the older woman was knitting happily. We stood a bit away, and I told her, “thank you, we’ll be going now.” She tsked to herself stopping her fast pace technique, “eat before you leave. I’m not letting you go knowing I didn’t feed you.” Luna’s and my stomach growled giving away our stance on leaving easily. She laughed and pointed with a knitting needle, “I prepared some sandwiches, please feel free to eat them they’re on the table.”

We meandered over and sniffing the sandwiches for anything strange, but when there was nothing alarming. Both of us chow down like vacuum cleaners. The four sandwiches turned into nothing , not even crumbs. The older woman shuffled into the dining area, “I like it when a woman can eat.” She sits next to us and Luna thanked the woman for her kindness personally, twitching her ears and purring lightly. I bowed politely to her, “thank you so much.” She waves her hand to us,” if you thank me one more time honey, you’re going to run out of thanks to give. Now tell me, where are you both heading?” I sit and think about it, “I don’t know exactly… I know we want to go to the police station in the city? We need to talk to an officer there, he can help us.” She nodded in thought, carefully listening to each word, “my husband is out on a fishing trip with friends, I can give you a ride to the city. It’s not that far.” My eyes bulged, “oh, no, that would be too much.” She scowls, “no, I insist, give this old woman a reason to have an adventure, dear.” Luna smiled and laughed, the older woman laughed along with her pinching Luna’s cheeks. Luna asked, “ma’am, what is your name?” The older woman wrinkles deepened and her smile lines extended softly, “call me Nana.”

It isn’t long before Nana has us in the cabin of the pickup truck. Luna sat in the middle chatting away with Nana as we drove to the city. Once Luna fell asleep on my shoulder, the she spoke candidly, “she must be special to you?” With a hum I cooed, “yes, she’s my daughter.” The older woman hummed back in approval, “children are a blessing…you don’t have to answer, but why were you out there?” I remained silent watching the tree pass by rapidly and stared at the random shapes of the clouds in the dark sky. As I watched the world flash by, “I was owned by the devil for years and I was rescued. The shelter we were at temporarily…they wanted to sell us off again.” Again, the older woman hummed in though mumbling off, “I hope Aure found somewhere were she belongs.” I didn’t know who Aure may be, but I sympathize, if I lost Luna it would be the end of me.

The rest of the ride was quiet except for the dull voice of the radio announcer. The tree line slowly turned into cityscape. The buildings we passed by a week ago all become familiar again. The older woman drove until she reached the parking lot of the downtown station. She parked in pick up/drop off section. I woke Luna, “love, we’re here, wake up.” The small Kitten stirred awake mumbling and wiped drool off her chin. I turned to our host, who had adoration in her eyes, “thank you for everything. I don’t know how I’ll be every able to repay you.” Not changing her expression, “you don’t ever have to. Live well and that’ll be enough for me.” Luna hugged her, “thank you Nana.” I opened the rusted door allowing us both to hit concrete. We watched until she rounded the corner and bracing ourselves for the worst walked towards the entrance of the station. I clenched Luna’s hand tightly in mine. I wasn’t sure if it was for her, or myself. I knew one thing and one things only: we needed to find officer Jeon.

We walked up the steep steps melting into the bustle of the station after reading a directory. We rounded a corner, flowing into a hallway that opened up to the busy office. In each department police men and women were chanting back and forth, and of course the burnt-out officers slept at their desk. I read the overhanging signs as we walked past the others. I smelled them before we read the familiar words: Hybrid Unit. I led Luna towards the desk, where hybrids were hard at work at their desk. Officer Wang looks up first from his computer and did a double take when he saw us both, “Kitties? What are you doing here?” His call interrupted everyone watching as pairs of eyes fell on the both of you in succession. My eyes land on the handsome buck.

I wanted to stay strong, but I couldn’t do it anymore. I started crying letting the tears blur my vision, finally letting it all go. All officers approach, but one particular bunny shoved his way through and engulfed me in a tight hug. I sobbed into the chest of the bunny and his hand eased up and down my back to comfort. His warmth reminded me of how I felt at NaNa’s home. He looked over to Luna, “are you okay kiddo?” She nodded tearing up herself hiccupping slightly. He looked over to the team, “guys, can you take care of her for a bit?” Officer Wang and Kim went into action and escorted her towards their desk. He keeps soothing me whispering soft coos of safety and it’s all going to be okay. When my sobs died down, he asked in a rush, “Y/N, what’s wrong? Why are you here? Why are you not at the shelter?”

I pulled away from the bunny with my ears flat, I couldn’t speak yet. I stared straight ahead and noticed his shirt was stained with my tears. “I’m sorry about your shirt, I didn’t—I didn’t mean—,” I rambled on not quite aware of the question he asked. He shakes my shoulders a bit, “Y/N, it’s fine, but why, why are you here?” I look up at him with rosy cheeks and dark circles, “they, they wanted to sell us too. They said that they didn’t have enough, so we were going too.” I begin sobbing halfway through the confession. Jungkook brought me into his embrace again, tighter than before. His ears dropped against this head. He knew he should’ve pursued it further, he should’ve never let any of you leave. He hugged you tighter yet, “I’m sorry Y/N. I really am, I’m so, so sorry.”

He lets you cry it out until you don’t have any tears left and are just dry heaving. He didn’t think he’d ever see the sun dim, but today there were clouds and rain. He sat you in front of his desk asking you to wait a second. He reports to his Captain, letting him know they can’t wait on those claims anymore. Captain Im nods along then comes over to you, he crouched down to my level and sweetly spoke, “I’m very sorry that happened to you Ms. Y/L/N. I promise that our team will do everything in our power to prevent anything like that from happening again. For tonight, we will direct you and Luna to another shelter.” My eyes widen looking towards Jungkook, who placed a hand on my shoulder reassuringly, “don’t worry Y/N. This time it’ll be different.”

I stand up knocking the chair over with a crack in my voice, “how will it be different? I don’t think the next time it’ll be different. Those people are all the same!” Jungkook tried to reason with me, but I didn’t want reason, I wanted justice. His foot thumped lightly and grinded his teeth. The last thing he wanted was for you to feel unsafe. His bunny ears loose some of their spunk, “Y/N, this is a promise. My friend, he can take you in! Remember, I tried sending you there last time? He’s a hybrid himself. He owns a shelter.” The Rottweiler raised his brows at Cotton tail’s bold claim but shrugged letting him dig his own grave.

I relaxed a bit, a hybrid and a shelter owner? The Rottweiler stood up patting my shoulder, “not all humans are terrible and not all beings are either. We promise Ms. Y/L/N, we will take care of you.” I’m left with Jungkook, who was still grinding his teeth. In embarrassment I lowered my head, “I’m sorry for my behavior.” I curled my tail around me, making myself smaller any way possible. His teeth stopped chattering and he approached me with a raised hand and out of instinct I winced. He pet my head gently raking his hands against my scalp, an unexpected long purr escaped my throat. I choked back in embarrassment, but he laughed letting go, “Y/N, please, I will protect you.”

I wanted him to keep petting me. I stared at his hand waiting for more, but it never came as he rounded his desk. I whined softly, and his ears twitched at the sound, “are you hurt Y/N?” I snap out of my want for affection, blushing violently, and shook my head in a no. Jungkook stared a moment too long, he wanted to pet her longer. To feel her snow-white ears between his fingers and teach you that there is more to life. They looked so soft, like clouds. He looked at the clock, “I’ll give my friend a call and get you a place to stay there. For the meanwhile, stay in the station. Would you like to sleep in a cell? It’ll give you and Luna some privacy.” My eyes water slightly again, I didn’t want to stay in a cell again, “can we please just stay in the waiting room? I don’t want to sleep in a cell anymore.” That broke his heart. Jungkook looked away from you for a moment, re-centering himself. He may be a strong, tough person, but this was chipping away at him. It felt like everything he was doing for you was wrong. He nodded towards you and glimpsed towards a giggling Luna with a smile, “yes, you can. I’ll check up on you frequently. We’ll go in the morning.” He stood with you holding out his pinky. I tilted my head in confusion examining his hand, “is something wrong with your hand officer Jeon?” He was a bit taken a back then laughed, “hold out your hand too, just like mine.” I complied even though his request was odd. He laced his pinky with mine locking the hold, “this is a pinky promise. This is something you can’t ever break, no matter what. This is my promise to you Y/N. I will protect you.” I smiled and tightened my pinky in his, “it’s a promise Jungkook.”

I let Luna play with the officers until she got bored. I leaned up against a wall closing my eyes trying to find some peace. Officer Kim and came over with Luna fiddling with some paper origami. I sat up straight, blinking away the tiredness and outstretched my arms to receive the happy-go-lucky kitten. She fell into place, “Mama, look I made a flower, do you like it?” I hummed and groggily replied, “you really made that all on your own?” She shook her head, “no, officer Tuan showed me how. He has a lot around his desk.” I pet her head and turned towards the officers, “thank you for watching her.” Officer Kim’s tail was wagging, “no problem, I like having her around, please come by more often.” I laughed ruffling her hair, she has them wrapped around her finger. Officer Jeon spoke up, “Y/N, we will be out for a bit. When I come back, l’ll take you to your new temporary home.” I nodded genuinely wishing, “be safe.” Jungkook’s ears came to life saluting Y/N as they walked away. Kim pulled Jungkook under his arm locking him in place giving him a well-deserved knucklehead sandwich. I could hear echoes of laughter chiming. It brought me comfort knowing that they guard the city.

I woke up in an awkward position crinkled into a make shift pretzel with Luna using my lap as a pillow. I opened my eyes as a casually dressed officer Jeon approached us. “Morning sleepy heads. Here, eat this before we leave.” I mumbled back something similar to a greeting and took the breakfast sandwiches from him. I wake Luna handing her a sandwich. Jungkook watched you with a onset grin on his face as you waited for Luna to eat first before you did. After a good bite I asked him, “did you eat?” He stopped mid gulp of his coffee, not expecting that question. “Oh, I’m fine I already ate,“ in fact he ate two for himself. I eyed him skeptically but ate continuously, not completely willing to let go of my meal. He almost choked again at Y/N’s cute side eye. This cat would be the death of him.

Once everyone was ready to go, the brigade waved you all off asking you to visit them, especially Luna. Jungkook let me ride next to him in the passenger seat. I looked around taking in the millions of gadgets like a child in a candy shop. He drove off complete amused. It took twenty minutes to reach the shelter because of traffic. This time around it looked like a home rather than an industrial building repurposed. Everything about the place felt inviting. Jungkook parked allowing us to follow him to the entrance. The estate was large with four floors and a yard. Jungkook neared the receptionist introducing himself and asking for a man named “Jin.” The woman directed you all out to the backyard. Jungkook waved his hand signaling us to follow him. His tail was swishing back in forth through a cut in his skinny jeans.

The sun was blinding as I walked hand in hand with Luna out the back doors. They weren’t metal, but a friendly, white door, the type you see in homes. Jungkook turned back to me smiling, “he should be just around here.” I followed behind the buck, stepping with caution, Luna always slightly behind my back. I walked off the cement trailing through lush, green grass towards a jungle gym. Children screamed about in delight swinging, climbing, sliding all around in happiness. Even when one of them tripped they still carried a wide grin on their face helping the fallen one up. The buck suddenly picked up speed towards one of the adults, lighting up, “Jin! Jin!” The tall, broad shouldered man turned around exposing his round, brown ears in the typical brown bear fashion. Two sugar gliders hung off his arms giggling as they roamed around him, climbing him like a tree. He tried to calm them, but they kept whizzing around him like cars on a racetrack. Despite the chaos, he seemed to be used to their antics. Jungkook got closer to the bear, “hyung, I brought your newest guest.” Jin turned to us, the apprehension in my eyes sticking out like a sore thumb, smiling beautifully. “Hello, welcome home.”

You forgot you made plans with him since he was able to take off for a day.

Though having him interrupt your sleep, you quickly regretted it.

“Coming!” You shouted, hoping he would get the message and shut up.

You walked to the front door and unlocked it, Jimin quickly came in and put down a duffle bag.

“What’s this?” You looked down at the bag Jimin put onto your coffee table.

“Beach stuff,” he responded simply.

“Beach stuff? Jimin, out of all places to go to you decided the beach?” You crossed your arms and couldn’t believe he chose the beach, you didn’t have anything against it but there were better places.

“Yea, we can have a sand castle contest and splash in the ocean for a bit and we’ll have lunch and dinner,” you hesitated, you didn’t want to pull out your swimsuit from the depths of your closet, “on me.”

You were easily pursued by his offer to pay for you.

“You’re lucky I like food, gimme a few. I need to actually wake up and get some stuff together.”

“Don’t you like me too?”

 You did but you wouldn’t let him know that.“I like Tae’s new dog.” 

You shut the door to the bathroom and got ready. 

You came out and went to your room to shove some stuff you might need in a bag. 

The last thing you grabbed was sunglasses that complimented your cover-up item of choice to hide your swimsuit until you got to the beach. 

“Awwww, you look cute. Let’s go, the car is waiting.” Jimin grabbed his bag and yours. 

“Jimin are you telling me you’re driving?” You couldn’t recall a moment when Jimin told you he got his license and bought a car.

“Pft, no the other members are going to a few places so our manager offered to drive us all.” 

That made a lot more sense with that you closed your door and made your way to the car as Jimin threw your stuff in the trunk.

 You greeted the other members in the car being Namjoon, Jungkook and Hoseok.

Jimin got stuck with the front seat as you sat with Namjoon in the back. Jimin was being really obvious that he didn’t like the seating. 

At one point their manager pulled over so Namjoon and him could switch seats. 

“Much better.” He put his head on your shoulder as he pulled out his phone to take a few photos for a memories, it wasn’t everyday you got to hang out. 

The ride was pretty quiet since everyone but you, Jimin and their manager fell asleep. 

You got to the beach after their manager dropped off Namjoon at a restaurant to meet up with some other idol friends while Hoseok and Jungkook wanted to go shopping.

“Call me when you need me to pick you guys up!” he said before Jimin closed the door.

“Let’s go and find a good spot!” Jimin had walked ahead of you with your bags and an umbrella under his arm.

You watched him struggle to find a good place until you saw a family leaving and called Jimin, “I found a spot over here!”

He ran over and stuck the umbrella into the sand, you spread out the large cloth Jimin bought while he opened the bottle of iced water, “water?”

“Please, I can feel myself overheating already,” you said as you turned over to him. 

You expected him to pull out a new bottle but gave you the one he just opened and drank from.

“Thanks,” you said quietly before you air sipped the water, letting the cool liquid chill you down.

“Do you want to go into the water or do some building first?” Jimin asked as he applied some sunscreen to his arms and legs, struggling with his back.

“The water seems nice, do you need help?”

“I was waiting for you to ask, was it my constant calls of defeat that showed it?”

“Sure, we’ll go with that.” You didn’t admit it but you were looking as his back, training did him wonders but you always missed a healthy and chubby cheeked Jimin.

“Will you need help with your back?”

“I think I’ll be fine, go on ahead.” Jimin shrugged his shoulders and went into the water, he looked like a little kid having the time of his life and you joined in soon after.

The two of you splashed around and you took in his genuine laugh and smile when he got you with water.

You should have taken up his offer to help, your back was red due to not enough sunscreen. You believed in yourself too much and ended up putting on ‘the thinnest coat of sunscreen ever’ as Jimin said.

You ended up leaving the beach earlier than you expected, you put your cover up back on and helped him put somethings away. You held the umbrella as Jimin carried the bags.

Jimin led you to a small beach side restaurant, Jimin and you got a booth so you placed all your belongings on the inside while you two sat on the outside.

The two of you ordered and ate to your heart’s content, Jimin was off his diet and you couldn’t be any happier as he finally ate what he wanted.

You laughed a bit when Jimin choked on some food, “be careful!”

“If I choke will you perform CPR on me?” there was a silence before Jimin started to cough really loudly, you got worried and hurried over to his side.

“Kidding!” You hit his shoulder. 

“Jimin! You really scared me!”

You two finished your meals and the manager came by after lunch. When Jimin started to put the things in the trunk, you readied yourself to climb into the car but Jimin stopped you.

“Woah, there’s still some stuff I want to do with you. Come on! Thanks again manager!” Jimin grabbed your hand with his right hand and held a plastic bag in the other. 

Jimin snuck you both back into the beach, there was no security but there was a red rope, spanning the length of the beach entrance. The two of you easily ducked under and went back to the sands, this time it was much more cold and the moon was mirrored in the rippling sea. 

He took out some sticks from the bag and a lighter, he lit one and gave it to you. It started to spark, “You bought sparklers? For what?” 

“Happy friendaversary,” you shifted your attention from the sparkler to Jimin. You felt all your emotions rise like the high tide. The tears threatened to leave your eyes. 

“Aw, don’t cry! You’ll make me cry. I know I don’t spend a lot of time with you, I know I’m never there but you and I know that our relationship won’t ever break no matter the distance and the time spent apart.” Jimin held you in his arms as he gave his little speech. 

“There have been so many days where I can’t wait to call you and I can’t wait to see you because I’ve missed you so much and you’re such an important person in my life who supports me all the way.” He kept talking, you take in his words and felt the same. 

“I hope you never leave my side, there’s so much I’ve accomplished with you by my side,” he paused, “will you like to be my partner in crime? My significant other?”

Your heart went all over, you never would have thought that Park Jimin would ever ask you. You didn’t say a word as you hugged him so hard that the both of you fell onto the sand, laughing and finally content that you two get to spend time together not as friends anymore but as his pride and joy. 

NDSM,KDIJN MY FIRST BTS POST OOF HELLO I AM HERE AND READY TO FEED THE FANDOM! Thanks to @arcdelaureate for spilling some ideas out for me!! 

Please don’t claim this as your own and please don’t do anything with it without my permission. If you don’t want it happening to you, don’t do it to others.

Jan.07.18 @9:57 PM