#themfchase

Death.  It was truly a mysterious thing. The concept of death. Humans gave it a meaning, as if life was only but a preparation for what was to come in the afterlife. Heaven, Hell, Oblivion. It didn’t really matter to you. And no matter how many years you spent in Sunday school, learning about sin and how it was a currency that either allowed you to enter the peaceful realms of the afterlife or the eternal suffering of the underworld, it still meant nothing to you. But still, you prayed for forgiveness as a child, your grandmother right there beside you clutching her rosemary tightly in her fists with screwed shut eyes and mumbling apologies in hopes for redemption.  You wonder if she found what she was looking for, and it was almost a bittersweet thought as you looked down at her lifeless body, neatly resting in the casket. She looked peaceful, at least. Maybe that meant something. And even if death for some reason meant nothing to you, you still couldn’t hold back the quiet tears that rolled down your cheeks. This woman raised you. She raised you into the strong woman you were today. With your own business, no longer struggling to put food on the table, but now able to send her money every week, to give her the life she deserved. Because she was one hell of a woman, that you can say, from the years she raised you. Resilient, strong, and all by herself when your parents suffered a terrible fate in a car accident when you were only a toddler. Come to think of it, you were quite familiar with death. It had visited you one too many times.  Maybe that was why you didn’t care for it. For what was to come, because, in the end, death would be everyone’s end. And some may say it’s a sad life, to not really think there is anything at all once you die. That your brain simply shuts and then there is a lot of nothing.  No, you weren’t skeptical; you believed in... Something. Science, nature perhaps. You believed that it didn’t matter if our subconscious continued to echo through the air giving us a fake sense of the afterlife or if in fact; we were reborn in another life. Because death was death. And for you, and everyone else, it was inevitable. Just as inevitable as having to come back to this town, back down to the old farmhouse where you were raised, three hours from the city you lived in, to clean out your grandmother’s things. Ever since she was sent to the hospital, a buyer was interested in the large land, offering a good price on it once she passed. And people called you cold, that you’d even negotiate with a man while your grandmother was in her deathbed, but the reality was that you hadn’t been to this town in almost ten years, and you and the doctors knew she wasn’t going to make it.  You loved her, you truly did. You were grateful for everything she had done for you. But what were you supposed to do? Keep the house there, gathering dust while you went back to your penthouse in a busy city and forgot about it altogether? No, that wouldn’t be fair to your grandmother. If you weren’t going to take care of the house, you could at least put it to good use. And you thought about maybe renovating it, putting it on Airbnb for some backpackers that would eventually stop by the town. You were still pondering on that idea even while you drove into the driveway, coming from the small meek motel just three blocks from the funeral home where everyone mourned the town’s loss. And even looking at it as you parked, one single bagel from Cindy’s Diner hanging in your mouth and a cup of Iced coffee you had to explain to Cindy’s daughter how to make, it looked... Exactly as it did ten years ago when you left. Three floors, with hard oak walls and, resin painted wood on the outside, vines that crept upwards midway past the second floor, but never too close to the windows, a vast wooden front porch with two swings on each side of the door and the large tainted glass windows from the living room and kitchen, reminding you of the same ones you saw in Sunday school. It was almost a smaller wooden castle, too many bedrooms for just the two of you as you grew up, but enough that you became really good at hide and seek. It was still the same, and you sighed.  You had some amazing memories here, that was true. Bonfires with your grandmother as she told you scary stories, your neighbors coming down to play with the hose when it was really hot. You even remembered trying to build a treehouse with your grandma, but you never finished because rain season started. And the sky looked just like it looked right now, dark rumbling clouds closing in, nothing but the vast field behind the house and the faraway mountains on the horizon. Before the thick raindrops began its descent you rushed out of the car, chewing on the piece of bagel as you rushed to the back seat to grab your bags, deciding to leave the unfolded cardboard boxes there and maybe get them later once the rain calmed down. Rushing up the driveway with your large bag of clothes in your hand, the rain began to pour just a few feet away from the porch, and you let out a little shriek at the cold drops hitting your skin, making you run a little faster.  Finally, under the protection of the front porch, you dug into your pockets for the keys, rummaging through both front pockets and the single pack pocket. You were sure they were there, and you huffed in annoyance, a little wet already as you put two and two together and remembered the iced coffee in your cupholder and the keys right beside it. You grunted, throwing your head back and gazing towards your black car. The rain was pouring down hard and from what you remembered, chances were it wouldn’t stop soon, so placing your bag right beside the door you took in a deep breath and ran for your car as raindrops soaked right through your clothes. Opening the car door and quickly reaching for the keys, you made your way back to the porch now dripping wet from the unforgiving rain that had started. Finally opening the thick wooden door, it screeched open, showing that it hadn't been used in the six months that your grandmother made the hospital her permanent home. You shoved your bag in with your feet before finally closing the door behind you.  It was quiet. Well, other than the harsh rain that hit against the windows and wood, the house was dark and quiet, a little gruesome too. You rested your back against the door, head falling back as you took in a deep breath. You opened your eyes and let them roam through the house, the open kitchen, and the large living room. No television. Quickly taking out your phone, you huffed once again, no service either. You were thankful that you left your catering business in good hands with Jimin, your partner, back in town, so even without service, you knew there was really no good reason for him to reach out other than to chat.  Finally, pulling away from the door, you flick on the lights, the old yellow lamps flickering before it illuminated the space, and it suddenly felt normal again, just like it did when you were a kid. It almost felt like home. Sighing, you picked up your bag and placed it right beside the couch, walking towards the laundry room to retrieve a dry and clean towel you knew your grandmother always had in case she had any visitors and you began to dry your hair already walking back to the living room to open your bag for a fresh pair of clothes to change into. Maybe you’d take a shower before you made something to eat. The sun would be setting soon anyway, so there was really no point in starting to pack anything today and the rain really didn’t seem like it would stop anytime soon. If you remembered correctly, sometimes it rained like this for days on end, the roads rather dangerous, some even closing down. You remembered how on days like these, school was canceled, and you could stay home and play all day, have tea parties, bake and cook with your grandma. You smiled fondly at the memory as you found a white shirt and some sweat pants from your bag, and just as you were standing up to strip from your wet clothes, three loud knocks to the door startled you. With your heart now beating in your throat and a hand lifted to your chest, you looked at the door.  Who could it be?  Eyes moving to the clock just above the kitchen sink, it read seven pm. When did time pass so fast? You had just―  Three more loud knocks.  Blinking at the door, you finally decided to walk towards it, not even thinking before you unlocked and opened.  In reality, the town had always been safe, and maybe it was your big city fears creeping up on you but the sight of a wet man with his head down and hands resting on each side of the door had you startled, eyes bulging slightly as you couldn’t make out his face in the dark, your hand blindly reached out to the light switch beside the door, the one that turned on the porch lights and you flicked it on, the man lifting his face to you. Oh. He seemed familiar, and he was young, about your age. Black, wet shirt hugging his strong and muscular frame tightly, making your eyes move to the bulge of his biceps and veins that dripped with water, then your eyes moved to his strong shoulders and up to his thick neck before landing on his defined jaw that also dripped with water and blood― Wait, blood! “Oh my god, are you ok?!” You asked, one hand coming to cover your mouth in your loud surprised reaction as you noticed he had a small cut right above his thick eyebrow. He smiled, well, smirked almost as he let out an airy chuckle. And oof, if that wasn’t the most charming smile you have ever seen, despite the blood dripping down the side of his face.  “I, well― I need some help, is your grandmother home?” He asked looking into the house, now standing fully, towering over you.  The mention of your grandmother had your mouth closing. Who was this guy and how did he know who lived here? And well, if he did, it was unfortunate that he didn’t know that she had passed the day before.  “I’m sorry, who are you?” You asked, and even if you tried not to sound condescending, you did, and he lifted the brow that wasn’t hurt.  “You seriously don’t recognize me, Y/N?” He asked and crossed his strong arms over his chest. He knew your name, and yeah, he did look familiar, but he seemed to remember you a lot better than you remembered him.  At your silence, he chuckled again.  “Jungkook.” He said, and the name had memories rushing back like a tidal wave. “We used to make mud pies together, I’m offended that you don’t remember, you ate them with vigor.” He joked, and you laughed, pursing your lips right after.  “Shit, I’m sorry, you look so...” Hot. “Different.” He smiled wide, now letting his hands down, moving into his front pockets. “So do you, it’s been what... Fifteen? Sixteen years?” He asked, and you nodded, crossed your arms, and resting your shoulder on the door frame.  In a perfect world, you would be able to gawk at his wet body without being caught, but in this world. He tilts his head to the side and flicks his tongue out once he notices your eyes roaming, giving you a quick once over himself.  “So uh... Is your grandmother home, I lost control of my car down on the secluded road somewhere...” He trailed off as if unable to remember exactly where. “...and it won’t start back up. I cut my eyebrow, I was wondering if she could take a look at it for me.” He took you out of your thoughts and you blinked a few times, leaning away from the door frame.  “Oh... My grandma... passed away yesterday.” Your voice was a lot lower than you expected and Jungkook’s eyes bulged slightly, lips parting as if he wanted to say something but he didn’t know what to say. “I uh, I’m here to pack her things.” You nibbled on your lower lip, nodding before you cleared your throat. “Would you like to come in, though? I can take a look at it for you.” You made way, and he just nodded, coming inside.  Closing the door behind you, you watched Jungkook take a few steps inside, his back to you as his eyes roamed the house. Memories of his own coming to play.  “You can take a seat at the kitchen table, I’ll get the first aid kit.” You said making your way to the cabinet under the kitchen sink.  You could barely hear him move, but once you grabbed the small white box, he was there seated quietly, looking at you.  How could you forget Jungkook, anyway? You spent most of your childhood with him, playing in the backyard, sometimes going to his house for sleepovers, even if it was far from the farmhouse. You both were inseparable before his parents divorced and his mother moved to the city, taking him along with her, and you never saw him again. Not until now.  As you took out the gauze, antiseptic, and some surgical tape you watched him look almost uncomfortable, looking around the empty house before looking at you.  You knew what he wanted to say, he had that look in his eyes, the “shit, you lost someone and I’m really uncomfortable because I have no idea what that’s like, but I still want to show you some sympathy” look, and you took in a deep breath.  “You don’t have to say it, you know, I heard it at least fifty times yesterday.” You spoke softly as you took one cotton ball and swiped gently at the cut.  “Say what?” He asked, looking up at you, not even flinching as you cleaned his wound.  “You know... I’m sorry for your loss and stuff.” You shrugged, taking another cotton ball and soaking it in antiseptic.  “Oh...” He said, one hand coming up to rub at the back of his neck. “I am though... I loved your grandmother.” He sighed, and you smiled softly, looking at a now clean wound. It didn’t look deep, but you were no expert. It did seem as if he had bled a lot, so you decided to wrap it before it started to bleed again. “Well, thanks, everyone loved my grandma, she was amazing.” You said softly as you began to tape the gauze to his cut, never once did he complain of pain. With the close proximity and the uncomfortable silence, you cleared your throat. “So... Did you move back here?” You asked, and he shook his head.  “No... My father is getting too old to come down to the city now and then, so I decided to come here for a change, I’m only in town for a little while.” He answered, looking out the kitchen window to the rain still pouring out.  “How is life here, anyway? I haven’t been here since forever.” He shook his head as you slowly ― tried to ― tape the gauze in place.  “I wouldn’t know, haven’t been here for the last ten years. Left for college at 17, didn’t come back.” You shrugged, reaching for another piece of tape before leaning back into him.  “Where did you go?” He asked, and you leaned back, blinking at his question.  “Oh, you mean for school? McKenzie Brown.” You said and his eyes bulged.  “No fucking way. So did I! How did we not cross each other on campus?” He seemed excited, and it just showed his boyish ways, a contrast to the very manly muscles on his body and that smirk he had given you earlier. Chuckling, you were also surprised that you had both gone to the same college, but yet, never crossed paths. It wasn’t really that hard to believe, given the university you were accepted to was very, very big, with a lot of students and up to 100 per class.  “Guess life didn’t want us to.” You shrugged, and he shook his head.  “Fucking coincidence. I was kinda famous back in school.” He said, looking down at his lap and you lifted a brow, making him look up at you and chuckle. “All I’m saying is that I had some fun, had a reputation.” Your smile widened, and you squinted your eyes, even if you both haven’t seen each other in sixteen years, somehow it didn’t really feel like you were strangers.  “Are you telling me, that Jeon Jungkook, the cute, bunny teeth kid that made me mud pies and held my hand when we crossed the street, was a fuckboy?” You laughed as you finally finished wrapping him up. His mouth opened almost to protest, but instead of that, he shrugged, and a smirk spread on his lips.  “Who said anything about was?” A loud scoff left your lips as you rolled your eyes at him. Truly, it was hot. He was hot, that was undeniable. But to imagine this man that was here in your kitchen as a fuckboy was truly something you weren’t ready to let your mind wander off. Wonder off to how many people he’s slept with, how much experience he must have. You cleared your throat.  “All done.” Was all you said as you got up.  With his clothes still wet and yours too, you threw the soiled cotton balls away and directed him to the bathroom where he could wash the blood that had dripped down his face.  Once he made his way back, you stood by the door with the pair of fresh clothes in your hands, ready to bid him goodbye, but instead, he walked mid way and sat on the handrest of the couch.  “You said you were packing her things, why?” He crossed his arms again, your eyes shot to his very wet clothes against the couch and you blinked at his question.  “I’m selling the house.” You said and started making your way towards the door, still hearing the rain rumble aggressively outside.  “Wait, what? You can’t sell the house!” He stood up, a look of outrage in his eyes. You turned around and looked back at him with an incredulous look on your face.  “Excuse me?” You questioned, blinking in disbelief.  “You can’t sell the house! This house has... Has a shit ton of memories and it’s a place where you can raise your kids! You’re just going to sell it to some stranger who’s probably going to turn it into another cellphone tower?” He sounded annoyed, irritated even.  “This is my house, and if I want to sell it to someone who wants to turn it into a fucking strip club or whatever, I will.” You crossed your arms, and he furrowed his brows. Truly, you wouldn’t, not that you had anything against strip clubs, but you wouldn’t want your grandmother’s holy name to go to dust in a conservative town like this. “And if anything, this town could use a freaking cellphone tower, since there is no service here!” You shrugged as if it was obvious.  “Wow, didn’t take you for a heartless bitch.” Now that was the last straw. It was almost as if the funny, charming Jungkook from before had vanished in a blink of an eye and all you could see right now was a condescending, nosy ― but hot ― stranger making demands and offending you.  “Get out.” You said calmly, crossing your arms. Jungkook gave you a pointed look, a scoff leaving him.  “You’re going to kick me out in this rain?” He raised a brow.  “Well, you somehow made your way here in this rain, I’m sure you can make your way back.” Maybe you were a heartless bitch. And your ex-boyfriends might agree, but the truth was, you didn’t like anyone making decisions for you, if anything, you didn’t like men making decisions for you.  “Oh, don’t worry your spoiled little ass, I’ll leave in a second, just gotta remember where...” He began walking towards the door and stopped midway, his voice slurring. He stumbled a little, one hand moving up to the wrapped cut. “Remember where my... my car...” He shook his head, as if unable to see straight, and even if you were irritated, your mind and body quickly went into action, walking towards him to keep him steady.  “Jungkook?” You called softly, and he leaned against your hand, unfocused eyes looking for you.  He didn’t look good, the once white gauze now with a bright red spot where the blood seeped through.  “Hey, why don’t you sit down a little, you might have hit your head a little harder than you thought.” You continue to speak softly, slowly maneuvering him towards the couch. You sat him down with a thud, a huff leaving him as his head lolled in his hand. From the few medical documentaries you’ve watched in the past, you knew that if he had a concussion, sleeping right now wasn’t the best idea.  “I’m going to get you some dry clothes and make us some coffee, I think you better stay here tonight.” You look out the window, he surely wouldn’t have made it back to his car.  A minute ago you were ready to kick him out into the rain because of your irritation, now you would have regretted it if anything had happened to him, had you done so. Sighing, you quickly made your way to your grandmother’s closet where she still kept a few of your father’s clothes and you took a large shirt and some sweats, just like your own.  Making your way back down, Jungkook still sat there with his head between his hands. He looked up at you once you made your way to him and reached out for the clothes.  “Feeling a little better?” You asked, pursing your lips.  “Yeah, just... Dizzy.” He admitted, not looking at you. “I’m... Sorry. I’m sorry. That was way out of line.” He blurted out, looking up at you as he took in a deep breath.  You pondered on it for a few seconds, you both were friends once, even if you were children, he wasn’t a complete stranger and that meant that you still nurtured some type of fondness over him ― and no, it wasn’t only because he glowed up. “We’re cool. Just don’t call me a bitch again, or a brat, otherwise, I’ll probably give you another concussion” That made him chuckle, and you laughed back. “Anyway, get dressed, we’re going to end up sick if we stay in these clothes.” Jungkook nodded, immediately reaching for the hem of his shirt and pulling it over his head, and you didn’t have time to turn around before his bare torso ― and abs― came into view.  Oh, he was truly a sight to see, wet locks falling down his face, damp, glowing skin in the dim yellow lights of the house, ripples of his abs and thin waist so well defined, if your mouth wasn’t agape before, it was now and you caught yourself, turning around to give him some privacy.  “Please, as if I didn’t catch you checking me out at the door.” He scoffed, you couldn’t see him, only hear the sound of ruffling clothes.  “I wasn’t checking you out!” You defended yourself, not looking at him and not sounding convincing at all.  “You were totally checking me out, I was checking you out too.” Yeah, you were checking him out, but him checking you out? That was new information.  Not that you weren’t worthy of being checked out, in fact, you were very confident in yourself, not because of your looks, but because you knew that success was written all over your face and that was enough reason for men to find you attractive.  “Figures.” You smirked, arms crossing over your chest.  Jungkook rolled his eyes, even though you couldn’t see it and you could hear him standing up, probably changing out of his wet pants.  You waited patiently, very tempted to peek, see what he was hiding behind those pants. You had noticed how firm and thick his thighs looked in those dark, wet pants.  “You can turn around now.” He informed, and you quickly turned, seeing him in the cozy clothes you had picked out. It wasn’t that you remembered because you didn’t, but seeing Jungkook in your father’s clothes made it all very... Domestic. You quickly swallowed as you looked him down and grinned.  “Ok, I’m... I’m going to go change and make us some coffee, don’t fall asleep.” You informed, and he sat back down, folding his wet clothes.  You were glad that there was at least coffee in the pantry, because food? Other than some crackers and powdered eggs, none of that. You made a mental note to go get some tomorrow if you were meant to spend the week here.  You picked up the two mugs and made your way to the living room where Jungkook sat quietly, looking around. Handing him his mug, he took it with a quiet “thank you” before you sat on the armchair right in front of him.  It was awkward now. Both of you quiet as you sipped on the hot coffee in your now dry clothes and looked around, it was uncomfortably quiet until― “I can’t believe you’re selling this house.” He shook his head and you rolled your eyes.  “Well, what do you expect me to do? It’s not like I live here, I haven’t lived here in ten years!” Jungkook sat closer to the edge of the couch.  “Maybe not now, but what about in, like, a couple of years when you get married and have kids, wouldn’t you want to settle down in a peaceful place like this?” He stated as if it was obvious.  “What makes you think I want kids? What makes you think I even want to get married?” You gave him a pointed look. And he was quiet, thinking for a while.  “Well, I assumed you were the type...” His voice was more hesitant.  “You assume a lot of things about me, apparently. Besides, if you’re so into the whole traditional family thing, why don’t you move back to town and all that jazz?” With that, Jungkook rested back against the couch, laughing bitterly and shaking his head.  “Me? No, no. I don’t believe in marriage.” It was your turn to scoff.  “And yet you were expecting me to believe in it?” You took a sip of your coffee. “No, I have no plans of getting married, my business is thriving and I’m making a shit load of money, I have no need for a man.” You looked down at your mug and Jungkook went quiet.  You flicked your gaze to him, confused at his silence, and you were met with an intense look right back at you.  “What?” You asked.  “Are you straight?” He asked, and you almost choked on your own spit.  “Why does it matter?!” You were appalled by his question.  “Well, are you attracted to men?” He continued.  “Yes!” You answered right back.  “So you don’t need men for anything?” He lifted a brow.  “I can’t seem to find your point here, Jungkook.” You argued.  “I’m saying if you’re attracted to men only, and I don’t want to assume, sexually speaking, you maybe can get by with a toy, maybe a very realistic dildo or a vibrator, but I take that it’s not like the real thing, so you’re not fully satisfied, therefore... You kinda do need men. Even if it’s just to get off.” He finished with the calmest expression ever and you were left with your eyes bulged and a slightly parted mouth.  You were speechless, not only because of how nonchalantly he said those things but because he had a point. Sure, you got yourself off pretty well here and there with toys, but a real, live human was irreplaceable to you. With your mouth opening and closing a few times, you blinked.  “If we’re talking about sex and sex only, then maybe, yes, I do need a man, but 90% of the time they don’t do it right anyway, so I rather resort to my toys. They’re also pretty quiet.” You rested your mug on the center table, lifting your legs and folding them besides you.  “You met the wrong kind of men.” He cockily says, and you notice then that he’s flirting. This was something you enjoyed. Flirting. You were pretty good at it too.  “And I assume you’re the right kind?” You teased back, and the lazy smirk that spread on him was devastatingly attractive.  “Would you like to find out?” He rests his mug right beside yours, sitting back again, and your eyes fell to the swell of his thighs. Surely they would feel delicious under your palms, or perhaps your heat, fuck, all of him would probably feel delicious, his large strong hands, his bulging muscles and you were pretty sure he wouldn’t disappoint in the downstairs department.  “I would like to know how you’re feeling.” You change the subject, watching him purse his lips and nod in understanding before he answers. It wasn’t like you hadn’t thought about sleeping with him, in fact, you had since the moment you laid eyes on him. But he was hurt, maybe still a little confused, and you surely didn’t want to take advantage of that.  “Feeling better, yeah. I don’t think I can walk back to my car, though.” He admits, eyes falling to the window to see the rain still resilient outside.  “We have spare rooms, you can stay the night, and tomorrow we can find a way to call for a repair or something like that to get your car from wherever you left it.”  He nodded, getting up and picking up the mugs before making his way to the kitchen where he left them both in the sink.  You showed him the way to the guest bedrooms, making sure you left him in one that was close enough to your old bedroom in case he felt sick during the night, and you being a night owl, would make sure to check on him during the night.  You gave him a fresh change of sheets and a towel in case he wanted to shower and said goodnight before moving to your room. It had been a while since you stepped foot in there, and it was all still exactly the same.  Your dark purple walls with posters, the pictures of your friends from high school hanging on the vanity mirror, you smiled fondly at one of you and Jungkook, maybe you were ten, nine, you couldn’t remember, but his large bunny-like teeth peeked out, one single hole showcasing his loss of one tooth. You sat down on the bed with a huff, a picture from the vanity flying off with the wind it caused, and you reached down to the floor to pick it up.  It was one of you and your grandmother.  Her large smile, so bright and powerful as it always was, leaning down with white gloves as she planted a flower right in the front garden of the house. You were right there beside her, wide smile as well, just as happy, as thrilled as you both planted new flowers to adorn the house. The same was in the background, full of life and so many memories that you felt a light tug at your heart. Maybe Jungkook was right... Maybe selling a hose as memorable as this one was a heartless act. But you brushed that thought away, placing the picture on the vanity counter and getting ready for bed.  You were hyper-aware of the man in the other room, one that had insinuated that he wanted to sleep with you only but a few minutes ago, but not because of that. You were hyper-aware of him in the other room as you finally felt a hard sob rip through your throat. Crying everything you hadn’t cried in the last three days. You tried muffling your cry, but it was too painful to do so. You would miss her and you regretted not visiting. You regretted how annoyed you seemed when she showed up to your apartment unannounced with her bags saying she “missed you and was spending the weekend” detouring whatever stupid plan you had. You regretted so much, but now it was too late to regret anything at all. She was gone. You were completely alone in this world. No parents, no family at all, not even a cousin, a boyfriend. Not even a real friend.  You fell asleep with silent sobs that night, and unknown to you, a very wide awake and hazy Jungkook hearing every moment of it with a weird feeling in his chest and body.  It wasn’t only because you were crying.  But because he couldn’t remember.  He couldn’t remember anything about his accident or anything before he knocked on your door.  Pancakes. Or maybe waffles, perhaps eggs. Yes, eggs and bacon. That’s what you smelled. And coffee, fresh-brewed coffee.  Your eyes gently fluttered open, the soft light seeping through the curtains in the room quickly reminding you where you were, and yet the smell of breakfast was all you could think of.  You rubbed your eyes, slipping on your flip-flops before slowly making your way out of your room, you quickly passed the room Jungkook had slept in, looking in to see it was as if no one had slept there at all and as you made your way downstairs slowly, the smell intensified.  You went around the kitchen wall only to be met by a shirtless Jungkook, the shirt you had given him hanging on his shoulders as he whistled to a song on your grandmother’s old radio and stirred some eggs on the frying pan. The low slide of your flip-flops against the hardwood floor had him turning his head towards you.  “Good morning!” He beamed with a bright smile.  Your eyes moved to the kitchen table, eggs, bacon, coffee, and... Pancakes? You were confused, very confused.  “Someone’s not a morning person.” Jungkook chuckled as he turned off the oven and pushed more eggs onto a plate in the center of the kitchen table. “Come on, sit down, have some coffee so you can function like a normal human being.”  You didn’t know what was more startling, the sight of pancakes when you clearly saw there was no food or the sight of a shirtless Jungkook cooking you breakfast as if you two had just slept together the night before.  You didn’t say anything, still confused and drowsy with sleep as you sat down, eyes flicking to Jungkook as he put his shirt back on to sit right beside you and start pouring you a cup of coffee.  “I’m...” You began, watching him pour himself some before reaching for the really well-done pancakes. “How did you...” “The pancakes?” He asked, and you nodded. “They’re vegan. I found some flour that wasn’t expired in the cabinet and some vanilla extract, made them with water and some oatmeal powder, oh and sugar!” He shrugged. “I actually work with vegan and vegetarian food. Not that I am either of those myself, but there is a huge place in the market for it. I make easily affordable meals for people who don’t have time to cook for themselves.” You rubbed your eyes slowly, reaching for the coffee mug and bringing it to your lips, taking a large sip before you sighed.  “That’s pretty useful, I’ve lost some clients in the past because my menus don’t offer them Vegetarian or Vegan options.” Your raspy voice spoke out.  “Menus?” He asked, brows furrowing.  “Yeah... I have a catering business. Weddings, parties, companies, even movie productions.” You began to explain. “I started with culinary school, wanted to become a chef, I kind of did, but I didn’t want to work at a restaurant where you have these really straight forward menus, I wanted to do something different, even fun.” You reached for a single piece of bacon. “So, my menu also caters to children, we have gourmet corn dogs, sweet popcorn, some over the top hamburgers.” You smiled, bringing the food to your mouth and taking a bite of it.  “Just like your grandma, huh?” He said and your eyes moved to him.  You had never made that connection before. But now that he pointed it out, he was right.  You remember you and your grandmother cooking several fun meals all day. Baking cakes, pies, making savory snacks for when your friends came over. And your birthday parties always had a little something different, and it was all your grandmother’s doing.  “Yeah, I guess...” You chewed, reaching for the vegan pancake, not really trusting it would taste good with the ingredients he had mentioned.  But to your surprise, as soon as you cut a piece and put it in your mouth, the loud moan you let out would have been lewd if not for Jungkook’s loud chuckle as he watched you eat his cooking.  “What the fuck, this is delicious!” You almost screamed, digging in more.  “And it’s healthy too.” He lifted his cup.  “Fuck, fuck... So fucking good.” You continued the moans of gastronomical pleasure.  “Not going to lie, it’s kind of hot watching you lose your shit over my cooking.” He chuckled, and you gave him a pointed look, rolling your eyes before going back to the pancake.  “Jesus fuck, Jungkook, this is amazing, we should totally work together sometime, I have so many clients that would pay big fucking bucks for healthy, vegan meals like this.” You offered, already finishing the pancake.  “Yeah? I could use the cash, business is good but it could be better.” You smiled at him, still chewing, and just as you were about to speak the radio beamed with what you recognized as a hurricane alert.  “Seems like we have a hurricane heading towards the town in about one day or two, all main roads are closed for the time being, we advise everyone to stay in their homes, stock on food and water. Do not go outside under any circumstances, I repeat, do not go outside under any circumstances.“  You and Jungkook shared a concerned look, and he pursed his lips.  “I should probably find a way to get to town...” And just as he said that a bright flash of lighting had you bulging your eyes and a loud rumble of thunder shook the house, heavy, aggressive rain pouring outside in a matter of seconds.  Jungkook looked at you and you pursed your lips.  “Or maybe not.” You said right before the lights flickered and you heard the refrigerator turn off. “Great.” You chuckled and Jungkook shook his head.  “I’m really out of luck, I bet my car is already fucked by now.” He sighed, resting his head in his hands.  “If you have insurance your car will be fine.” You said standing up to test the lights before confirming the power was off and heading for the kitchen drawers, looking for candles.  “We don’t have any more food or water,” Jungkook interjected, watching you bring two packs of candles and leave them on the table. It was still pretty illuminated in the house, despite the dark clouds making it seem like the sun was already setting.  “I, well, we do, actually, my grandmother has a bunker I guess, she has a lot of canned foods and stuff like that, also a shit load of water, we should be good.” You informed, walking back to the table, noticing that Jungkook’s hair was wet.  “Did you take a shower?” You asked, and Jungkook furrowed his brows in confusion.  “Your hair is wet.” You said as you sat down.  His hand moves up to his hair, running his fingers through the damp locks.  “Oh... I guess they just take a long time to dry.” He shrugged, and you gave him a look of confusion before finishing your breakfast.  “You don’t mind me staying?” He asked after you both finished eating, you were at the sink, washing the dishes as he sat on the kitchen counter right beside you, watching.  “Honestly, what’s a couple more days gonna do. Besides, I would probably shit my pants if I had to go through a hurricane in the dark by myself.” Jungkook lifted his brow at that.  “So... Another thing you need a man for other than getting off?” He gave you a smug look.  You rolled your eyes at him, spraying some water onto him. “No! Company doesn’t necessarily require a man, Jungkook.” You answered, finally finishing the dishes, placing them to dry. “And you seem to be obsessed with the idea of me getting off.” You dried your hands and looked at him, leaning on your hands on the counter.  There it was. That lazy, charming smirk of his. One that honestly had your panties twisting.  “You want me to lie?” He cocked his head.  “You’re outrageous.” You chuckled, turning your back to him and taking a few steps before you were stopped by a cold hand on your upper arm.  It wasn’t a tight grip, if anything, it was a gentle one.  He was already on his feet, tugging you back to him, and the little huff you let out once your body fell flush against his had him smiling wider, your hands resting on his chest.  “You know what’s outrageous?” His hands slipped down your arms gently to rest on your hips, it was almost as if he was hesitant to touch you, waiting for consent, as his silky voice spoke, his back rested against the counter, legs slightly parted for you to slot yourself in the middle. “The fact that I know I can make you cum so hard and good that your legs stop working and you’re here pretending you don’t know.” That had a blush spreading on your cheeks, a loud swallow almost inaudible because of the hard rain hitting the window just behind him.  “How would I really know, though? You seem like a teller, not a shower.” You teased back, already feeling heat cripple down your body. You could feel his firm body against yours, even if you weren’t exactly pressed to him and his hands rested gently on your hips. You moved your gaze up. Even a little slouched down he towered over you, eyes glossy and full of intention, and that smirk. That freaking smirk.  His pink tongue came out to flicker over his bottom lip, your gaze following it before moving back to his dark eyes.  “May I?” His gaze moved to the hands on your hips and you blinked slowly up at him, nodding once.  What was once a hesitant touch to your hips became a hard, deliciously painful grip. Thumbs digging into the dip of your hip bone and pulling your hips into him, your middle gently rubbing against his. Your lips parted as you gently let your head fall back, giving him an opening even you weren’t aware of in your clouded judgement. And soon, lips were on the expanse of your neck. Soft, damp lips, grazing your skin and sending ripples of goosebumps down your body, eliciting soft whimpers from your parted lips.  “The things I’ll do to you...” He whispered against your skin, parting his lips to gently nip at the curve of your neck and jawline. It was as if you were entranced, truly. His body, words, touch was like a magnet to you, unable to even think properly as he littered his way up with gentle kisses, sucking softly at your skin once you whimpered at a rather sensitive spot.  “Jungkook...” You whimpered out and he rolled his hips into you at the sound of his name, clearly pleased with how it sounded coming from you.  Your arms quickly moved to wrap around his neck as he made his way up, more and more, lips tracing your jawline all the way to your chin before he hovered right against your lips, eyes almost shut as he looked at the ultimate surrendering look on your face.  Your eyes opened into slits, looking back at the intense gaze he was giving you, lips almost aching with the want to be kissed, you wanted to kiss him so bad, no... You needed to kiss him. It was almost as if you were desperate.  “Do you want me to kiss you, sweetheart?” His breath fanned against your lips, warm and smelling of coffee.  Just as you were about to answer, another bright flash of lightning blinded you for a second before the violent rumble of thunder shook the house.  You squealed, it was so close and Jungkook, despite his manly frame also had bulging eyes as he looked around, watching the lamps shake slightly.  “Shit, that was a close one.” He let out under his breath. You could feel something poking against the edge of your stomach and suddenly you didn’t feel in the mood to make out with him, but rather protect yourself.  “You think we should go to the bunker?” You asked, looking back at him with wide eyes and a slight pout on your lips.  He was so endeared. You looked just like you did when you were a child, scared of whatever it was, and he sighed, despite the arousal still very clear in his eyes.  “Yeah, we can go to the bunker. Can you grab some blankets and pillows? I’ll grab your bag and the candles.” He informed and you nodded, quickly making your way up the stairs.  The “bunker” was actually the basement, with concrete walls and with shelves filled with canned foods and gallons of water along with medicine. There were two sleeping bags, one that was meant for you and another that was meant for your grandmother, and as you laid them down, placing the pillows and blankets on them, Jungkook was strategically placing the candles around the room, using a lighter he found in a drawer to light them. When he was done, he went up the little stairs to close the door, the strong lock making a loud nose. He made his way back to the candlelit room, you were already seated, with crossed legs on one of the sleeping bags, eyes a little wide as you heard rumble after rumble of thunder.  “It’s really pouring out there.” He said as he sat down beside you, trying to ease you a little.  “I don’t remember going into this bunker since... I don’t even remember.” You admitted, taking in a deep breath. “It’s... Scary.”  “What is, the bunker?” He asked, tilting his head to the side. You pursed your lips.  “No... I guess... It’s scary not knowing what’s going to happen. We can be here and think we’re safe, but the whole house can fall on us and then poof... We’re gone. That’s scary.” You swallowed at the thought.  Jungkook nodded, understanding what you meant.  “I think... Death isn’t meant to be scary. It’s the not knowing that is scary.” He said, and you looked at him, watching him look ahead as if rearranging his thoughts. “Some believe in heaven and hell, others believe in reincarnation, I think it’s all in an effort to give them some peace, fear death a little less.” He nodded, and you brought your knees to your chest.  “What do you believe in?” You asked, resting your cheek on your knees, looking at him. He thought for a few seconds, nibbling on his lower lip.  “I don’t know. I want to believe that when we die... We go to a place where all our loved ones are waiting for us, where we find peace and we can choose to either live in peace or go back and do it all over again.” He looked at you. “But I can’t really believe in that when I’m just as terrified of dying as I am of being alive.” His brows furrowed and so did yours. “Like... What if I die alone? What if I die forgotten somewhere, in the cold, all by myself? What if I die knowing that I accomplished so many financial things in life but not... Emotional? No one to love, no one to be loved by. That terrifies me.”  “Not being loved?” You asked, and he shook his head.  “Dying as alone as I lived.” And that hit you like a ton of bricks.  You and Jungkook were so alike it was really frightening.  You were also alone, having conquered so many things in life. With your own business, money, success. But at the end of a busy day, you went home and you were alone. Alone with yourself and your silence. And you didn’t notice until now how lonely you were.  “At least here... If anything happens, I know I won’t die alone. I’ll die with my childhood best friend and honestly, someone I really want to get to know better.” He looked at you again with a smile and you never felt so comforted.  Your grandmother didn’t die alone. Even if you had spent most of your years away from her, even if you had only come back to this town to hold her hand one last time before she took her final breath. You were there, and so were her friends. She wasn’t alone. And even if you didn’t know what happened after, you’d like to believe that she was with your father and mother, hugging each other again, your grandmother filling them in on how well you had grown up. Smiling fondly back at him you both were quiet for a while, still hearing the thunder outside, but now it was less scary to you.  “I think we have some cards here somewhere.” You said standing up and rummaging through a drawer, Jungkook threw his head back with a grunt.  “Ugh, thank god, I was already starting to think we were going to die of boredom down here.” He chuckled, and you scoffed.  “Good to know my company bores you, Jungkook.” You found the pack of cards making your way back to the pile of blankets you had made.  “Please, you’re far from boring. If anything you’re really fucking interesting. Really proud of who you grew up to be, even if you can be a heartless bitch that wants to sell her childhood home so it can become a strip club.” He quirked a brow with a teasing grin and you slapped his arm.  “Oh, shut up. I’m not sure I’m going to sell the house anymore, I might have other plans.” You said without looking at him, taking the cards out. “Do you know how to play poker?” You asked flashing him a grin.  He raised a brow.  “Can we make it interesting?” And you squinted at him with his lazy smirk that made you tingle.  “Is it something kinky?” You asked with a tilt of your head.  “Definitely.” He winked, and you rolled your eyes before giving in.  “Fine, whatever, you pervert.”  If you had known Jungkook was this good at poker, you probably wouldn’t have agreed on making it strip poker, because now you were in your bra and panties, no socks on and he was only but socks and shirt down.  You want to blame your loss on his exposed chest, your eyes unable to focus on anything other than his ripped abs, but in reality, Jungkook was just really good at poker and his annoying cocky smirk and those strong arms draped over his legs only made you more annoyed ― and turned on. “Royal flush. Lose the bra.” He set his cards down giving you a very pointed look. Your mouth fell agape because you really weren’t expecting this at all. For a second, you thought about ending the game, but the way his eyes roamed down your half-naked body really made heatwaves rush down your spine. Placing your cards down, you let your tongue flick over your lower lip, his eyes didn’t miss that as he watched your hands move to your back to unclasp your bra. There was a look of anticipation in his eyes, glossy lids focused on your chest as you let the straps fall down your shoulders, your eyes focused on him before you slowly peel the undergarment off, exposing your perked nipples.  His jaw clenched at the sight of your exposed breasts, eyes moving all over to take them in, and there was a slow almost shaky exhale coming from him, making you pant slightly. The sexual tension in the air was as thick as the rumbling clouds in the sky. You were almost bare for him, and he loved that. Loved that he was getting the chance to see you, all for himself. You leaned back on your hands, your breasts arching forward, bouncing slightly and there was almost an animalistic growl bubbling in him.  “Take off your panties.” He breathed out, commanded, asked, you really didn’t care. There was no game anymore, that you knew for sure, and one single hand moved down to tug at the side of your underwear gently, pushing it down before you pushed the other side, sliding it down your legs. You let the fabric rest along with your bra, your heat still covered by your thighs before you bent your knees up to your chest, looking at him with lust-filled eyes. You loved the way he was looking at you, with so much want and so much desire it almost clogged your lungs. And he waited patiently, his own chest slightly heaving up and down before you slowly parted your legs for him to see all of you.  Fully bare and spread for him.  “Fuck.” He cursed out, and you knew that if he didn’t swallow thickly, his mouth would have pooled with drool. You could feel his heavy gaze fixed on your heat and you knew he could see it glisten as the candles flickered.  “Fuck, please, please can I touch you?” He breathed out, one hand already placed on the blankets in front of him, ready to crawl to you. The desperation in his voice almost made your hands falter.  “Yes, yes, do anything you want with me.” You spoke out just as breathless. And before you even had a chance to breathe back in, he was on you. Slotted right between your legs and hungry, desperate mouth on yours, you whimpered into his mouth, tongue flicking out to find his. He tasted so divine, so heavenly and you let yourself lay back on the blankets as he kissed you like it was the last time. Passionate, tender even, but messy and wet. He grunted against your lips as his hips rolled into your slit, you could feel the outline of his hardened length against your bare heat and your eyes rolled back at the delicious rub. Your hands moved to his hair, fingers tangling in between his locks. They were still wet. But you were less focused on that, and rather focused on his hot breath against your lips, sweet taste on your tongue, and the way his body rolled into you so expertly.  He pulled away only to latch them onto your neck, kissing and sucking harshly at your skin, probably leaving bruises in his path down your body. He didn’t relent when he met your breasts, sucking one perked nipple into his mouth with a deep vibrating groan that rippled down your body, sending shivers down your spine.  You arched into his mouth, whimpering softly as little shocks of pleasure shot straight to your core.  “Jungkook.” You whimpered out and his brows furrowed, hips rolling into you harder as he let your nipple go with a lewd pop.  “Fuck, I love it when you say my name like that, sounds so perfect.” He whispered against your skin, moving his lips down your middle, kissing just below your navel and you know where he’s headed, already parting your legs further for him.  “Good girl.” You barely catch the whispered praise, but as you do, you feel your cheeks blushing furiously, heart picking up in rate.  A loud moan rips right out of you, fingers gripping at the blankets once you feel his mouth wrap around your nub. He sucks it into his mouth softly, tongue swirling around and under it, making you choke out whimpers and moans at the intense pleasure. If anything, he seemed like a fucking pro, letting your nub free only to flatten his tongue, dipping the tip into your aching entrance before lapping up your slit to suck your clit right back into his mouth with a deep groan in his chest.  Your arousal was all over him, lips, chin, tongue. And you loved how messy it looked, how completely hungry he seemed to be buried in your cunt. The soft sucks to your clit became more frequent, tongue swirling it around inside his mouth and you let out a high pitched whimper, signaling he was at the perfect spot. Jungkook was a good listener, and he was adamant in making you cum, more than once. He sucked harder and harder, both hands moving to spread your legs wider, thumbs so close to the edges of your entrance as he spread it open, the ache becoming more unbearable as it stretched slightly. With just a few more sucks you let your head fall back and back arch off the blankets, legs shaking violently before a hard wave of pleasure washed down your body. Vision flashing white and extremities tingling, you couldn’t feel your legs. Your empty core clenched around nothing and he could feel it with the edge of his thumbs so close to your entrance.  He sucked softly again, riding your orgasm before he pulled away completely, only peppering small kisses over your swollen clit, watching you flinch slightly in overstimulation. You finally relaxed, back meeting the blankets once again and droopy eyes searching for him as you felt him crawl up over your body.  The lazy smirk accompanied by cum coated lips and chin was way more than you were prepared for and you whined at the sight, tilting your head up to capture his lips. He only chuckled, pulling away to tease you.  “You taste like fucking heaven.” He whispered, still pulling away every time you tried to catch his lips. “Would you like to taste yourself, sweetheart?” You nodded with a pout and he leaned in, tongue breaching your lips as he kissed you slowly, sensually, letting your cum coat your tongue as well, and you whimpered at your taste, making him pull away with a groan.  “Fuck, I want to taste you more, please?” He asked, brows furrowed and your hand moved down in between your bodies to cup his hard bulge. Palm rubbing at it back and forth. His eyes fluttered as he let his head fall at the delicious rub of your palm.  “I want your cock.” You whispered, and he took in a deep  breathe, exhaling shakily. “Please? Please, Jungkook, please?” You begged, breathy voice, a little hoarse from your loud moans, and who the fuck was he to deny you of anything at this point. He was completely under whatever spell you had on him.  He pushed his sweats down along with the black brief boxers he had under and his cock sprung up to hit against his stomach.  You were right. He surely didn’t disappoint in the downstairs department. If anything, he was impressive. Thick and long, large veins adorning his hard length, the tip glistening with pre-cum. He was massive. You even questioned if you could take him at all, and the slight doubt on your face had him chuckling.  “We’ll go slow, I promise.” He said in reassurance before he positioned himself at your entrance. He pushed slowly, and you felt your entrance stretch around him just as slow, the first inches were the hardest part, and once you felt that “pop” from his tip it was smooth sailing from there, your core stretching around his thick girth with a slight burn, he grunted as he slowly bottomed out, stilling as he panted, resting his forehead on yours, being careful not to press his wound onto you.  “Can I move, sweetheart?” He asked softly, clearly strained, his hands moving to find yours, interlocking his fingers with yours right beside your head. You nodded at him, feeling so full your eyes rolled to the back of your head. “Good girl.” He said a little louder this time, pulling out only to roll his hips into you with a breathless groan. The praise along with the thrust had your core clenching around him, making him hiss at the tight fit.  “Fuck, so good.” He breathed out, starting a slow, steady grind of his hips in and out of you, cock twitching so deep inside, you could feel him in your cervix.  “H-harder.” You whispered and Jungkook snapped his hips into you without warning, eliciting a loud, high-pitched moan from you.  “Like that, baby?” He questioned, moving his lips to the shell of your ear. You whined and he let out an airy chuckle, biting down on his lower lip as he pulled back only to snap them forward harder this time.  Your body bucked with each hard snap of his hips, his hands moving from yours to rest beside your head, hold himself up as the other moved to wrap gently around your neck, your entrance clenched harder at it.  “Oh, what a surprise.” He breathlessly teased. “The heartless bitch likes to be fucked like a whore.” And you wish you were mad at it, but truly, you did. You liked it rough and dirty just as much as you liked it slow and passionate.  “Good thing I’m a pro at it.” He gave you that cocky smirk before he started a relentless pace into you, hips snapping so hard your breasts bounced with each powerful thrust, feeling him hit deep into your core over and over.  “Such a sweet girl...” He spoke as he fucked you, grip tightening around your throat. “Making mud pies, playing hide and seek and getting fucked by her childhood friend in the basement of her childhood home, full fucking circle.” He snapped them hard with a grunt, making you reach out to latch your nails to his shoulders.  “That’s it, baby, feel my cock deep inside of you, feel it drag in and out of that sweet, tight cunt. Feel every ridge, every vein, make yourself cum all over it like you do with those pathetic toys.” He growled out. You already expected Jungkook to be a dirty talker, you just didn’t expect him to be this fucking good at it. “Just like that, yeah? Fuck, if it were for me you’d never use a fucking toy again, only my cock, I’d fill you up every fucking second of the day, creaming this tight pussy over and over as if it was made for me.” You clenched tight as his grip tightened, feeling your second high already creeping in on you. God, he was so good. “Fuck, scratch that, this little pussy was made for me, you’re all mine, all fucking mine.” He closed his eyes, getting lost in the sensations of your tight, hot walls hugging his length, deliciously rubbing against his cock as he fucked into you again and again.  “Say it.” His strained out breathy voice blurted out, and you didn’t need him to explain to know.  “I-I’m y-yours, Jungkook, all y-yours.” You were sure you had broken skin by now, your nail digging and scratching as you felt your high approach you at an unforgiving speed.  “That’s a good fucking girl.” And there it was, the praise again. And that alone seemed to send your high ripping through your body aggressively. Choked out sobs and shaking body making you unable to think and even Jungkook was surprised when you came, holding you in place as you let it wash over you, blinding your vision and making the slide of his cock even more smooth. The choked out broken whimpers and moans were music to his ears as he felt you clench over and over around his length, his brows furrowing as he concentrated on the feeling while helping you ride your second high. He slowed his unforgiving pace back down to a slow grind of his cock, the hand around your throat moving to interlock your fingers again as the other one gently soothed you, clearing the wild locks away from your face, he shushed your quiet sobs as he leaned down to kiss the tears― even you didn’t know you let fall down ― away. It was so tender, so gentle, you weren’t used to that from someone that was only but a one time lover.  But was Jungkook only but a lover?  He was your childhood friend. And sure, it had been a long time since you had seen him, and to some people that would make you strangers, but you weren’t strangers, in fact, you knew each other very well. He knew that you chewed on your lower lip when you were nervous. You knew that his eyes went wide and dear-like when he was surprised. He knew that you hated storms and the rain. And you knew that he had always protected you since you were kids.  His brows were furrowed as he rested his forehead against yours again, you could tell he was close, could tell he was only savoring the pleasure as his lips parted to let out a low, deep whimper of his own.  His eyes opened to look straight at you, it was so personal. So intimate. And right when he was there at the edge, he leaned down to capture your lips in a messy, uncoordinated kiss as you felt his cock twitching inside of you, spilling his hot cum deep within. His breath was so harsh an aggressive coming from of his nose and he couldn’t kiss you for long as groan after groan left him and he came. Fuck, he was even hotter when he came. You were doomed.  It took him a few minutes before he finally stopped. Breathing harshly before he rolled off of you, laying beside you.  You both went quiet for a few minutes, only catching your breaths before he turned his head to you, a lazy smile spread on it.  “Told you so.” He let out a cocky smirk.  “You’re outrageous.” You scoffed at him and he reached out, pulling you flush against his side. You rested your head on his damp chest, both of you flushed and fucked out. There was a quiet moment where you both just looked at it each other, it was as if time stops, as if everything made sense right there, right at that moment. It felt like home. He felt like home. Just like this house. Peaceful. And if death was anything like this, you’d gladly die.  “I know this is really weird... But I really feel like telling you I love you right now.” He admitted with a loud swallow, Adam’s apple bopping. Your heart did something you weren’t aware it could do. “Maybe it’s the after-sex haze, but I really feel like saying it back.” You said too, cheeks blushing slightly at your admittance.  “I love you.” He whispered out. And you were surprised by how it didn't feel weird, by how it didn’t sound foreign. It was as if you heard it a thousand times before, but also as if it were the first time and truly, it was. But it felt... Real.  “I love you.” You said it back and his lips spread into a wide smile.  Maybe he felt it too, felt how familiar it sounded, how... Fitting it was.  And maybe it wasn’t love at all, maybe it was just the afterglow of sex and that was ok, you’d both deal with it later. Right now you just wanted to bask in this feeling, nothing outside really mattered. Not even the rumbling of the thunder still roaring in the sky.  “God, I suddenly feel really fucking tired.” He huffed out, and you chuckled.  “You can sleep if you want.” You said but Jungkook’s brows furrowed, his once damp skin suddenly turned ice cold against you and you gasped.  “Jungkook?” You called, but he still had his brows furrowed, his lips suddenly changing shades. You sat up, looking down at his naked body, he was shaking, trembling so violently it felt like he was possessed. His skin had turned pale even under the yellow glow of the candles. And you watched the gauze on his head turn crimson red, taking over the whole thing.  “Jungkook!” You called louder, but the boy only moaned as if in pain.  Reaching out for the gauze, your fingers brush his hair.  They were soaked, dripping onto the blankets as if he was right under pouring water. Your eyes bulged, so confused at what was happening.  “Y-Y/N?” He called out your name and your trembling hands cupped his ice-cold face.  “Jungkook? I’m here, I’m right here, tell me what’s happening!” You desperately asked.  His eyes opened slightly, and you felt like you were breaking into a million pieces at the pure sadness in them.  “Please... Find me. I don’t want to die alone.” He whispered out, and you were even more confused at his statement. Desperately trying to understand but not wanting to stay still, turning your back to him, you hurridly got dressed, looking through the drawers desperatly for something to clean his wound, and just as you turned back to him there was no one there. Your eyes bulged, your heart racing.  What was happening? What was going on? You looked at the door, it was still sealed shut, there was no way he could have gotten up and opened it in the state he was. There was no way you wouldn’t have heard him! “Jungkook?!” You called for him as you made your way up the stairs and out of the basement.  You roamed the house, desperation laced in your voice, on your face in the tears that― unknown to you ― streamed down your face.  You looked for his clothes that you put to dry in the laundry, there was nothing there. But the food was there, you ran to the mirror and his marks were there.  Please... Find me. I don’t want to die alone. That was what he had said.  And even if nothing made sense right now, even if reason and logic weren’t on your side, your brain worked at full capacity, head aching, throbbing, knees falling to the floor as your hands came in between your hair. You wanted to scream. What was happening, what was happening, what did he mean?  I lost control of my car down on the secluded road somewhere...  Your eyes bulged at the memory, maybe... Just maybe that’s where Jungkook was. Maybe he had gone back for his car, maybe... Just maybe you weren’t going insane.  The storm roared outside, the hurricane now at its peak, but something inside you roared louder, no matter how crazy you felt.  You didn’t even bother to put on your shoes, grabbing your car keys and going out in the absolute havoc of a storm, soaking wet and shivering cold you got in your car with a struggle as the wind was strong against you. Turning the engine on, it took a few turns and a few punches to your wheel for it to finally come to life.  You were a good driver, but in these conditions, even the most skilled driver could die. You didn’t care, something deep inside of you screamed that you were running out of time.  You drove in the pouring rain and wild aggressive wind unable to properly see as you sobbed uncontrollably trying to remember where the secluded road was. It was a shortcut people always took when they wanted to get from the farms back to town quicker instead of taking the highway. It was also up a mountain with a lot of trees. Bumpy roads and slippery, muddy tracks. You drove regardless, making your way up the mountain road, mud making your tires turn falsely here and there, but you relented, and you drove, cursing out loudly.  “Where the fuck are you?!” You screamed before you saw on the horizon a black car, clumped down the hill a little, the front smashed straight into a tree, you drove until you were close enough, sprinting out of your car as you ran to his.  “Jungkook!” You screamed as you reached the driver’s door. The windows were shattered, rain falling into the car and there he was, unconscious, the cut still very much there, unattended in the same clothes you had met him in. You tried opening the door, but it seemed jammed. And you screamed in frustration as you hit the car a few times before trying again, pulling as hard as you could, kicking the sides to try to make it budge.  Your free hand moved to grip at the edge of the shattered window, broken glass digging into your flesh, but you were filled with adrenaline and dread, pure dread.  Jungkook was dying.  You gave all you had until you finally felt the door budge, swinging open and almost throwing you back. You stumbled in the hard rain, the wind blowing so hard against you, you felt like you could fly away as you reached into the car, undoing his seat belt before wrapping your arms around his middle.  You were small compared to Jungkook. And even if now you were questioning if anything that had happened in the last day was real or just some sort of feverish dream, you knew he was heavy, you pulled him out of the car with a lot of effort, grunting as he flopped down on the muddy floor.  You leaned over him, seeing his lips blue, his cut still very much bleeding. Your shaking hands reached for his pressure point, searching for a pulse and you concentrated, feeling it so faint against your fingers. He didn’t have much time.  You dragged him to your car, slipping as you used all your force to get him there, but somehow you did, somehow you were able to open your back seat and push him inside. You didn’t even know you had it in you.  And fuck did you drive. You drove fast, knowing it took at least ten to twenty minutes from the secluded road to the town hospital, and in this weather, it was harder to drive up the mountain, but you did, you drove fast and relentless and once you made it to the hospital it all happened too fast.  The nurses and doctors rushing to pull Jungkook out of the car, lay him on the stretcher. Your bloody hand wiping your hair out of your face as you followed them in.  But you couldn’t hear anything. You couldn’t hear the questions, you couldn’t hear the shouts.  All you could see was Jungkooks’ almost lifeless body, so pale and fragile. Fuck... You... You kissed him. You touched him, didn’t you? You... You said you loved him.  Was it your imagination? How... How would you imagine this, how would you imagine where he was, that he was hurt? It didn’t make sense to you.   “Miss! How long has he been unconscious?!” The nurse yelled, taking you out of your racing thoughts.  “Since... Around seven pm yesterday.” You mumbled out, still walking with them, watching them put wires, tubes, oxygen on him. That’s all you could really think, that Jungkook was never really there, that he had been unconscious in his car since the moment he knocked on your door.  “Are you his wife, family?” She asked, and you shook your head.  “I’m... I’m his childhood friend.” You almost couldn’t speak.  “I’m going to have someone take a look at your hand, you’re going to have to stay here.”  And just like that, he was gone. Past the double doors.  You waited.  Even after someone had come and sutured your hand, you waited, soaked, cold. You waited, even after you saw Jungkook’s father storm in between the hospital doors. Even after he had spoken to you, thanked you for saving his son after all these years.  You waited until the storm was gone, nothing but a light breeze and scattered leaves outside on the wet asphalt. You waited until he woke up and the nurse had told you he didn’t remember you.  You waited until his father said that he didn’t feel comfortable having someone he hadn’t seen in sixteen years wait for him at the hospital. He didn’t remember.  Of course, he didn’t remember.  Jungkook was stuck unconscious in a car for 24 hours and you? You were visited by someone, something urging you to save his life. And you didn’t really spend any more time wondering if it was really him, perhaps his spirit, perhaps his consciousness. You didn’t even waste your time wondering why you. Wondering why put you through something so painful, no matter what it was. In the end, it didn’t matter. What mattered was that Jungkook was safe, alive. And whatever supernatural thing had happened that allowed you to save him... You were thankful.  Two weeks had gone by since everything. The house extremely quiet as you packed your grandmother’s things slowly, not one drop of rain to keep you from doing anything at all. In the end, you had moved all of her things to the attic, deciding to maybe spend some time here, take a break from work. You didn’t allow yourself to think about Jungkook or try to explain what had happened. You had spent the first few nights crying yourself to sleep as nothing made sense, but the excruciating pain still haunted you. It hurt that he didn’t remember.  Sighing as you looked at the rough drawing of the renovations you wanted to make to the house in front of you, you reached for your mug of coffee. The afternoon sun coming through the windows and making the whole place seem cozy.  You were also baking some cookies, deciding to keep the house as you remembered it. Something always in the oven. And you had tried a new recipe, vegan. Testing out to see if they worked, if they would taste as good as... You brushed the thought away, focusing on the paper in front of you.  It was three loud knocks that brought you out of your thought. You wondered if it were perhaps a neighbor, or maybe even the delivery boy coming to bring you the groceries you had called earlier for. But you gasped once you opened the door. “Jungkook.” You whispered out, surprise and dread written all over your face.  He looked just a good as he did that day. The cut on his head now almost healed completely.  “Uh, hey. Y/N, right?” He sounded shy, hesitant. One hand coming to rub the back of his neck.  But the way he had said it only made your heart break, he really didn’t remember. “I was heading back to town, but... My dad told me that you were the one that saved my life so... I wanted to stop by to thank you, I guess. This is really awkward for me.” He nervously said. “Y-you’re Y/N, right?” “You seriously don’t recognize me, Jungkook?” You swallowed the lump in your throat, repeating the same words he had said to you that day.  “I’m sorry, it’s... It’s been a really long time. You look really different.” He pursed his lips.  “Y-yeah, that’s me... And... There r-really is no need to thank me. I’m glad you’re s-safe and ok.” You swallowed harder, nodding at him. Jungkook swallowed before he took in a deep breath, brows furrowing right after as his nostrils flared.  “Are you baking cookies?” He smiled, hands coming into his pockets. He was more relaxed now it seemed.  You pursed your lips, a soft smile spreading on them.  “Would you like to come in and try them? They’re vegan.”  The end.  N/a: Now that you read it, yes, it’s based of Charlie St. Cloud. I freaking LOVE that movie. I hope you enjoyed this fic! <3

You had spotted Jimin and Jin a couple of times as you and Namjoon were quietly still in your corner, watching as the partygoers spoke to each other avidly. The discrete radio in your ear was also dead silent, only to be used in case something changed. The tension had eased a little as you drank a single glass of wine. Maybe you should have eaten more before leaving.  Namjoon remained quiet as he observed the party, eyes now giving away his soldier ways as they sharpened to any sudden movement close to you, and you were thankful for the silence.  Looking around your eyes searched for Jungkook, you hadn’t spotted him after he had threatened Namjoon, you’d feel a lot calmer if you could just see him, keep your eyes on him. Make sure he was safe.  A gasp left you when you felt a warm palm against your own, head turning to look at Namjoon that offered you a comforting smile.  “Loosen up, nothing is going to happen, all you need to do is to be yourself.” He smiled, and you frowned. Be yourself is the last thing you needed to do. “Well, you get the point.” Your lips parted to give him a witty answer when you were interrupted by the sound of a voice.  “Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to The Elizebeth Gala.” Your gaze moved to the tall man sporting a fine tailored suit, he had a glass of champagne in his hand and he looked oddly familiar. “I’m pleased to see everyone has adhered to our masquerade theme this year.” He continued, he was young, perhaps a little older than Jin, but still oddly familiar. “I hope you all enjoy the event, dance, enjoy the food and the music, it’s a pleasure to receive you all.” He makes a quick toast, eyes moving in your direction, and for a moment you’re nervous. Once everyone goes back to their conversation, the man is slowly making his way towards you, your eyes slightly building behind the mask and your hand automatically wraps around Namjoon’s arm.  “Mr. Kim, fancy seeing you here.” He stops in front of you both, gaze moving towards Namjoon. “Mr. Wang, I’d say the same, wouldn’t expect you to be out so soon.” Namjoon retorted politely. Your brows furrowed. They knew each other. The handsome man scoffed, eyes rolling as he downed his champagne and placed on a passing tray.  “Well, they can’t keep me locked forever, I have good lawyers.” He placed his hands in his pockets, shrugging. “I guess I owe you one.”  Namjoon chuckled, a melodic laugh that was too unfair to be true.  “Don’t get caught next time or I’m keeping them.” You didn’t understand what they were talking about, your gaze moving from one to the other as they had the cryptic conversation.  “And who might this beautiful lady be?” The man’s gaze shifted to you, eyes boring down your figure, but not in a nasty way.  Namjoon’s lips parted to answer, but you quickly extended your hand.  “Raven, it’s a pleasure.” You smiled at him, finding newfound confidence within you.  The man lifted a brow, taking your hand, but to your surprise he lifted the back of your palm to his lips, placing a kiss to it.  “Enchantée.” He - cheesily added.  “So, Mr. Wang, how do you and Namjoon know each other?” You wrapped your arm back around Namjoon’s arm once again, the man stifling beside you.  “Please, call me Jackson.” The man winked. Too many cliches for one man, but suddenly the name rang clearer in your head. Jackson Wang. You had a faint memory of seeing the news and his name popping up when they announced they had one of FBI’s most wanted under custody “Oh, Namjoon, and I go way back. He’s safe kept some of my... Art a few times when I was... Unavailable.” It all came back to you now, one of the most infamous con artist of all time. Had made million-dollar heists. Art. Banks. Politicians. “But of course, my collection isn’t by far as vast and luxurious as Namjoons, I’m sure you’ve seen it.” His gaze shifted to the man beside you, Namjoon stood silent, looking straight at the other man.  “Oh, I’ve seen it.” You faked a wide grin. “Was quite taken back by the Caravaggio first time I saw it, matter of fact, I think I heard somewhere that It had been stolen a few years back...” You furrowed your brows, bringing one finger up to your lower lip inquisitorially. “Isn’t that right, Joonie?” You tilted your head to look at him.  Namjoon has his tongue poking on the inner side of his cheek, annoyed.  “Oh, the Caravaggio, if he doesn’t take good care of it, I might just sneak in someday and take if for myself.” Jackson continued, but Namjoons brows raised.  “Oh, you can definitely try. But my security is better than the Louvre, my friend, where I borrowed it from, and plus, I don’t mind killing intruders.” Namjoon smiled widely, bringing the glass in his hand to his lips.  “Are you at least going to finally tell me how you breached that?” Jackson lifted a brow.  “Nope,” Namjoon answered, emphasizing the ‘p’ as he took yet another sip from his drink.  “Well, in that case, I think it’s time for me to return to the party.” He chuckled, looking your way. “Raven, it was a pleasure meeting such a stunning woman.” He gave you a slight bow and made his way back to the crowd.  You and Namjoon were quiet for a while, not a word exchanged, but you couldn’t help it, you started shaking your head, dumbfounded by the information you just got.  “A fucking con artist.” You blurted out.  Namjoon quickly pulled to further back onto the boat.  “Keep it fucking down, people can hear you.” He whispered, quickly looking around and bringing one hand up to fix his hair.  You turned in his direction, crossing your arms.  “So is everything about you a pissing contest?” You questioned, and he rolled his eyes, finally a semblance of a non-poised man.  “I just enjoy art.” Was his answer.  “You can just go to a museum and enjoy it there, in case you’re unaware.” You retorted.  “I didn’t steal it, I borrowed it. Besides, the Art Mafia is very real and I assure you more people are safe with some of them in my hands than they are in museums.” Namjoon shrugged.  “I knew there was something fishy about you.” You chuckled, the alcohol making you a little more loose than you’d be.  “Doesn’t my sketchy persona make me even slightly more attractive?” The corner of his lip lifted in a smirk. And you’d be lying if you said it wasn’t attractive as fuck. But the real thing ringing in your head was... Was Namjoon flirting with you? You took in a deep breath. He knew what he did to you, they all knew.  “Maybe, or maybe it just makes you seem lame.” You teased, a tipsy chuckle leaving you.  “Oh, Raven, I can assure you, I’m far from lame.” That sobered you up. He was certainly flirting with you. But unknown to you, someone was listening in, and that someone walked away right before what you said next.  “Don’t start getting ideas, now, Joonie, I’m a taken girl.” You brushed off his flirting.  “Nah, you’re not my type anyway, I just enjoy the chase.” You suddenly felt comfortable around him for the first time, as if a wall had fallen between you both. And you both talked about art and other things you had in common for the next hour. You had even forgotten what your situation was for a moment before something rang in yours and Namjoon’s ear.  “Suspicious movement on level three, keep your eyes open.” It was Hobi, your nerves suddenly spiked, and you were on high alert.  “Hoseok, what’s up?”  You heard Jungkook's question over the com.  There was a beat of silence before he answered.  “Found two bodies in the laundry carts, I think we have company.” That was more than just suspicious movement. That meant they had found you. What didn’t make sense, though, was how? You quickly eyed Namjoon, he only nodded, it was time to move.  Making your way through the crowd, he guided you by the hand, your eyes quickly moving to the waiters, Yoongi, Taehyung they were all looking, one hand hovering perfectly over where their guns would be. And then you saw another face, one you didn’t know, a menacing one, wearing a disheveled waiter’s uniform, a small bloodstain on the corner of the shirt.  Your eyes bulging as the man walked slowly through the crowd, eyes all the faces, looking for you. He slowly made his way towards you and Namjoon, still not looking at you, and you quickly spotted Jungkook, he had spotted the man as well, but he wouldn’t be able to make his way to you in time, the boat was almost over the border. You were almost there, just a few more minutes.  As the man made his way towards you, it was as if things moved in slow motion, Jungkook reaching for his gun, the slow movement of the man’s eyes moving in your direction. You had to make a decision, and you quickly pulled Namjoon back, turning your back to the man and slamming your lips onto Namjoons.  He stiffed in place as your lips met his, but quickly cupped your small face with his large hands, almost covering most of it as he kissed you back. You kept your eyes open, gaze moving as the man went right past you, not even stopping to look at the kissing couple.  As soon as he was out of sight, you pulled away, quickly turning your head to meet a frozen Jungkook. His eyes glued to you then his gaze moving to Namjoon. He shifted as fast as you could think, gaze darkening, featured hardening, and he took one step.  “Jungkook, not here.“ You heard Jin speak over the com and he stopped, but you could almost see the anger bubbling in his features before he took in a deep breath.  “We’re moving.“ He spoke over the com and you followed him with your eyes. Hands quickly lifting to your lips.  “You can worry about that later, Raven, we have to move.” It was Namjoon who bought you out of your screaming thoughts, pulling you in the crowd and walking to the Jackson, that spoke avidly about something with someone.  “It’s time to repay your debt.” Namjoon interrupted the conversation, making Jackson just glare at the person he was talking to, the same walking away.  “Hit me.” He spoke with amusement.  “I need to get off this boat effective immediately, has to fit at least eight people.” He looked around as he spoke, making sure the second possible attacker wasn’t close.  “I have a motorboat in the back of the boat, should fit everyone.” Jackson didn’t even question. “Follow me.”  You were moving the moment Jackson took a step, skipping as you tried to follow their quick steps.  “Back of the boat,” Namjoon spoke over the com.  As you made your way through the large waste boat, one by one the boy’s appeared behind you, your head turning to spot them, and Jungkook in the back with dark eyes, not even looking in your direction. Once you were finally at the back of the boat it was dark, the boys quickly going past you as Namjoon stopped in front of Jackson, the man putting his hands in his pockets.  “We’re crossing the border as we speak. A couple more minutes and you shouldn’t have any trouble,” Jackson informed.  “You have two armed men on the boat, they’re dangerous, keep your eyes open.” Said Namjoon.  “Oh, I already had seven armed men to worry about. Two more shouldn’t be a problem.” He shrugged. “Besides, I could tell the story of how I helped get the president’s daughter to safety at parties in the future.” You furrowed your brows once his gaze met yours.  “Oh, you didn’t think I wouldn’t notice, did you? I can spot fine art from a distance, sweetheart.” Your mouth opened, but you closed it, not really knowing what to say.  “Time to go,” Jimin said, you turned your head and noticed the motorboat was already on the water. “ Namjoon thanked Jackson and pulled you along with him. He helped you onto the motorboat, and soon enough, you were on your way, watching the big boat disappear as water splashed lightly around you from the speed you were going.  The boat was silent, everyone quiet and looking ahead, even Namjoon as the only light source was the moon shining above you.  You sat at the far back of the boat, watching them with their backs to you, Jungkook stirring, sailing. You had a dreading feeling that you had messed up. A dreading feeling that it would be hard to overcome this, but you just hugged your arms as the harsh wind blew your hair, messing it up.  The party was over.  It was back to reality now.  It must have taken an hour for you to finally reach the docks. Not one word spoken once the boat was anchored at the dark, empty docks. You had made it, one step closer to being safe, one step closer.  You almost lost your step once your feet met the rotting wood from the dock, Yoongi quickly gripping on your arm, making sure you wouldn’t fall before he was walking beside you, following the others. Your eyes were trained on Jungkook’s back. It was unusual of him to leave your side when you were out in the open like this, and it made you want to curl into yourself.  You all walked until you stopped in front of three cars, Hobi and Jimin quickly moving to uncover them as Namjoon threw a black backpack over the hood and began to undress. You turned around, looking at Jungkook as he too began to undress.  “Jungkook.” He didn’t look at you, didn’t even react. You sighed. “Jungkook.” You tried again. He continued to undress. Back to you.  Losing your patience you closed the gap between you both, gripping at his arm and he quickly pulled it away from you.  “What?” He questioned sharply. You furrowed your brows, a scoff leaving you.  “You can’t be serious. Jungkook, I had to do it.” You started to argue with him, but he remained quiet. You could feel the other men quickly glance up as they all changed. “Jungkook, fucking talk to me.” You insisted once he finally finished putting his gun in his holster.  “Fine, you wanna talk?” He turned to face you. “Let’s fucking talk, Raven.” He quickly gripped at your arm and pulled you into the back of one of the cars, throwing another backpack beside you before he shut the door.  “I’ll drive with her, you guys go along, I want Jin in front of me, Hobi behind me.” He commanded before getting in the driver’s seat and starting the car. “Get dressed.” He commanded to you before he started driving.  You huffed, almost like a teenager, but obeyed, quickly changing into the clothes inside the bag, the same black cargo pants, and the plain shirt. You took off your heels and put on the heavy boots, undoing your hair, taking off your jewelry, and stuffing it all inside the bag before you crawled into the front seat, sitting beside him.  “Put your seat belt on.” He once again commanded coldly. You did so then crossed your arms and it was quiet. The road was dark, it was mostly dirty all around, you could see Jin’s car in front of you and Hobi behind you through the review mirror.  “Talk.” He said.  “I’m not speaking to you while you’re acting like an asshole.” You shook your head.  “Oh, stop being a fucking spoiled brat.” He spat, not looking in your direction.  “I fucking kissed him, so fucking what, Jungkook, there was a man ready to fucking kill me coming in my direction I needed to think fast.” You argued.  “Ah, I see, think fast, so the flirting before that had nothing to do with you suddenly deciding to fucking kiss not only my soldier but my fucking best friend, one I have fucking history with?” He condescendingly asked.  “Of course not! What the fuck do you think I am? I’m in a life-death situation and you think the first thing that comes into my head is to make out with your fucking flirty friend, fuck you!” You lose your patience.  He’s quiet for a few seconds, then he shakes his head.  “So you admit you two were flirting?” You rolled your eyes, both hands coming up to rub at your face in frustration.  “Yes, we fucking flirted, Jungkook. But not only was it playful, but I also told him to not get ideas because I was taken.” You looked away, out the window to the pitch dark desert. “I’m not fucking Irina, I’m not going to sleep with all your friends, I just want you.” And if you hadn’t seen his expression on the reflection of the window, perhaps you wouldn’t have regretted saying those words. You quickly turned to look at him, his brows deeply furrowed, a look of grief in them as he went quiet.  “I’m sorry.” Your voice was quiet. “I’m sorry you lost someone you loved, someone you let go of.” You reached a hand towards him, placing it gently on his cheek. “But I’m not her, Jungkook... I playfully flirty with your friends, but... I don’t want any of them, and they don’t want me.”  “That’s easy for you to say, I can see the way they look at you.” His voice came out contained. “No... They don’t want me. I know they don’t... They respect you and they respect me. It’s just banter... You don’t have to give me up for anyone.” You leaned forward, the seatbelt making it hard for you to reach him fully, but you placed your lips on his cheek, and his eyes fluttered.  “I wouldn’t...” He spoke softly, stance relaxing. “I wouldn’t give you up... Not you.” He quickly glanced at you, before looking back at the road.  “I’m sorry I kissed Namjoon, but it really was a way to hide my face in an unsuspicious manner.” You apologized, thumb grazing softly at his cheek.  “Motherfucker, now I’m going to have to find a way to deep clean your mouth.” He chuckled. “Did he slip in tongue? I swear to god, I’ll use bleach.” He shook his head, and it was your turn to laugh.  “Mmm, maybe a little.” You teased, and he squinted, looking in your direction. “But I know a better way to cleans my mouth from him.” You tilted your head, one hand moving to unclasp your seat belt. Jungkook quickly furrowed his brows.  “What are you doing?” He questioned, putting his eyes back on the road.  “Cleansing my mouth, commander.” You reached down, hand pressing into his clothed middle, and his lips parted.  “Y/N, we’re in the middle of a mission.” He warned you.  “Nothing is going to happen.” You comforted him as you felt his cock hardening under your palm.  “What if something does happen, am I supposed to just start a shootout with my boner hanging out?” He quickly glanced at you.  “Jungkook, shut up and let me suck your cock.” You started to undo his pants. He didn’t argue. Smoothly, you pulled out his hard erection from his pants, eyes shining once his hard engorged head met your eyes, licking your lips as you started to slowly pump him. His gaze fell to the motion of your hand moving up and down slowly on his length.  “Eyes on the road, commander, I know for a fact you’re good at multitasking.” You leaned down, mouth engulfing his tip and sucking on it gently.  “Fuck.” He whispered out, you could hear the light thump of his head against the seat. The curse gave you more motivation, sinking further onto his length, tongue lapping as you took in as much as you could before pulling away, a string of saliva connecting you to his cock. You pumped him a few more times, noticing his grip tight around the steering wheel, and you looked up at him. Fuck, he was hot. Lidded eyes, slightly swollen lower lip. He must have been biting on it. You decide you want this to be the best head he’s ever had, so you sink back down onto his length, further down until you could feel him in the back of your throat, unable to breathe. Your throat closed around him and he dragged out groan sent a shiver down your spine and straight to your core. Bobbing your head, you repeated the motion a few times, taking him in deep and stilling, hearing him pant just above you. Little grunts and groans leaving him as you did your best to bring him closer to his edge.  Your mouth pooled with drool, jerking off what you couldn’t fit in your mouth, and eventually, you felt a hand rest on the back of your head, fingers threading into your locks before he was gripping. You allowed him to control your motions, understanding that he was a man of control, and he pulled at your head and pushed, setting a pace that made his sounds louder, breathless.  “Fuck, just like that, baby.” He cursed out, and you whined, you wanted to see him. Wanted to see the look of pleasure on his face. His eyes shifting from your head to the road, sharp attention allowing him to drive and edge at the same time.  It wasn’t until you felt yourself choke around his cock at one hard press of your head down that he hissed, croaked out, voice breaking when he spoke.  “I’m gonna fucking cum.” He almost whined out.  And you went faster, bopping your head, drool sticky hands playing with his cock and his groans become more frequent, louder. His grip on your hair tightened until it was painful and he was twitching and spilling into your mouth. Hot spurs of cum coating your tongue and throat as he ground upwards to rise his high.  Like a good girl, you helped him until nothing more came out, swallowing every last bit of his release before you pulled away, sitting up again. He panted, hand moving to the steering wheel again, and you helped tuck him back into his pants before he looked at you.  There was the dangerous, hungry gaze that sent jolts of arousal down your body. You truly felt like he hadn’t shown you just how much he would devour you. And you were eager to find out.  “Fuck, you’re so beautiful.” He whispered out, hand moving to clean the drool from the corner of your swollen lips and bringing it to his own, sucking the thumb into his mouth.  It was amazing how something as simple as that made you blush, calling you beautiful. It made you forget everything, just like at the party, it made you forget you were being hunted down, chased, that you had witnessed, almost felt death multiple times. Right here, with his warm body just beside yours... You felt like you were already saved.  A few hours went by. It didn’t nearly seem like it while you both talked about things you hadn’t had the opportunity to talk about before. Trivial things, really, but in a setting like yours, it was more than welcomed. You had found out Jungkook was obsessed with games. Mostly shooting games, of course, the soldier would be obsessed with shooting games. He defended himself by saying it had improved his strategy views and you laughed at him. His laugh, though, was truly mesmerizing, when he was free, full-body laughter that made your heart feel like it could stop beating at any second. That boyish smile of his when he made fun of your disastrous prom date. It almost felt perfect, if your mind didn’t suddenly sabotage you with the heavyweight of your duty to the world. Jungkook noticed the shift in your demeanor but decided to let you process that on your own, offering his support by placing his hand on your knee. You took it, interlocking your fingers. Soon enough you were going uphill on a rocky road, the car bouncing, and he took his hand away to have a better grip at the steering wheel.  The safe house was atop a hill surrounded by a deep, large forest. The house looked old but large. It was made out of heavy wood, and you could tell it was well taken care of. As soon as the cars pulled up into the large vast driveway, you could see the sky turn a light blue color, indicating the sun was rising, and you didn’t even notice how tired you were before you saw the change. Everyone parked, and Jungkook turned his head in your direction, a deep sigh leaving him. It was as if he could finally relax.  “Welcome to the Safe house, Raven.” His voice came out raspy, and you offered him a soft smile, reaching out for his hand and taking it. There was a silent conversation going on between you both. Everything you both had gone through to ensure your safety, how close to death you had been, how in the middle of this all you still found a way to find love, even if it was all still so fresh. A knock to your window brought you both back to reality, finally exiting the car. Jungkook walked to you, taking your hand as you both met up with the other men.  Namjoon kept his eyes cast down, hands in his pockets. It was different seeing him in anything other than a suit, but you couldn’t deny that it also fitted him perfectly.  “So... Uh...” He began, Jungkook lifting a brow in amusement. “You’re not mad about the kiss, right?” He finally lifted his gaze to his commander.  Jungkook chuckled.  “Nah, it’s fine. She did what she had to do.” Jungkook nodded. “Besides, you’re free to kiss right now if you want, I wouldn’t mind at all,” Jungkook said, and you looked at him, brows furrowing. He only shrugged. You squinted your eyes.  “She sucked your dick in the car, didn’t she?” Yoongi was the one to ask, Jungkook only smirked.  “Yeah, definitely gave him head in the car,” Hobi added in.  “What the fuck?” You cursed out. “Do you guys really need to talk about me giving Jungkook head or not in the car right now?” You felt your face burn hot. Why were they like this?  “It’s not a discussion, you did give him head in the car, I could see your head moving.” Jimin fixed the straps of his backpack.  “Oh my god.” You rolled your eyes.  “Not the first time Namjoon would get dick breath, though.” It was Taehyung’s turn. Everyone looked at him, silent. “What, too soon?”  You all fell into laughter, it felt like it was finally over, deciding to participate in the fun, you pouted your lips.  “Joonie, give me a kiss.” You playfully said.  “You all are children.” Namjoon crossed his arms.  “Let’s settle in, I’m fucking starving.” Jin finally spoke, taking the first step towards the house.  The inside was dark, yet cozy, it had a big fireplace with a large couch and a few armchairs, Jungkook was quick to walk into a room. You only watched everyone move around as if they were familiar with the house. Taehyung and Jimin quickly starting a fire while Namjoon looked through the cabinets for some coffee, Jin and Hobi sat down on the couch and groaned. Everyone was tired.  You looked around for Yoongi, only noticing him walking back from the same room Jungkook was in and joining the other two on the couch.  “Jungkook put up the motion sensors, it’s safe sailing now.” He slumped on the couch and relaxed. Jungkook finally made his way back, watching you, still frozen in place, looking around. “Love what you did with the place, by the way,” Namjoon commented from the wide-open kitchen on the opposite of the living room. You looked at Jungkook.  “So, this is your safe house?” You questioned him, watching him place his hands in his pockets and make his way to you.   “This is my house.” He admitted. “Your original safe house was meant to be somewhere else, I changed things up last minute.” He said looking at the boys and back at you.  You both were quiet for a while, a shy smile playing on your face.  “So, are you going to show me around, commander?” You looked down, reaching out your hand to tug on his shirt.  He sighed, leaning closer to you.  “You really have to stop calling me commander if you don’t want me to fuck you in front of everyone.” He teased, voice raspy.  “There are literally nine rooms in the house. Get one.” Yoongi shouted from the couch.  You chuckled, Jungkook mimicking you.  Jungkook showed you around the house, Yoongi wasn’t lying there were nine rooms, eight bedrooms, and one control room. You saw monitors that showed cameras that spread all over the forest area, they were all motion-triggered and on the wall, Jungkook had a waste collection of guns. You noticed there were no pictures on the wall. If this was his house, you’d think he at least would have pictures of his friends, but to your surprise there was nothing.  He showed you his room. It was simple, a bed, bedside table, no television. It felt... Lonely. But this was after all his home.  “Do you want to rest, Namjoon made some coffee, we’re taking turns keeping watch for the first week.” He leaned against the frame of his bedroom door, crossing his arms like he always did, muscles bulging out, making you really tempted to “rest” with him for the next hours. But for some reason, you were no longer tired, you just wanted to sit down with them, spend some time with everyone.  “No, it’s fine, I just want to relax a little.” He nodded and took your hand, walking back to the living room.  You all sat down in front of the newly lit fire, everyone with coffee mugs in their hands and quiet, all of them contemplating that we had made it. Finally made it.  The responsibility of what you had to do next weighed on your shoulders. But you just looked at their faces, faces of the men that risked their lives for you, that someone took you in, someone that came from a completely different world than them.  “I found out what Namjoon does for a living.” You said, breaking the silence as you brought your own mug of coffee to your lips.  The conversation spurred on after that, Namjoon telling everyone about how and why he got into being a con artist. Everyone pays attention, Yoongi makes fun of him for it and everyone joins in on the laughter. And soon enough the conversation becomes more serious.  “So, Y/N... Do you know what you’re going to say?” Hobi is the one that asks, you’re head is resting on Jungkook’s shoulder and he has an arm around your waist, playing with the material of your shirt. You think about it for a few seconds.  “I guess I’m just going to tell the truth.” You begin. “If people want to believe me or not, that’s up to them, but I’m going to do my part and it’s probably going to open up an investigation.” You took in a deep breath.  “And after that?” Jin was the one that asked. You moved your gaze to him, remembering the conversation you both had at Seamore. After everything was over, what would you do?  “I... I don’t know. I guess it all depends on the outcome. I’ll go back and continue my duty in my father’s place for as long as the people need me, but... Once that’s over, I think I’m done.” You look down at your fingers, contemplating going back to your “normal” life, leaving these men behind.  “I think you’re really brave,” Taehyung spoke. “You went through hell, held yourself pretty well despite losing everyone you trusted, your family, you could just disappear, be presumed dead. But you’re choosing to set the record straight. To fulfill your duties.” Jungkook sighed beside you, you wondered if he also was thinking of the aftermath of it all.  You nodded, a soft appreciative smile tugging on your lips.  “I know this might sound cliche, but... I lost my family, and I feel like life gave me a new one. You know? Like... Six brothers.” You spoke softly.  “Count me out, I’ve thought about fucking you before.” Yoongi chimed in.  “Yeah, me too, sorry...” It was Taehyung’s turn.  “Well, you did kiss me, so...” Namjoon added.  “If one more person speaks up, I’m bringing out my knives,” Jungkook warned.  The boys chuckled, and you pursed your lips, chuckling right after.  “What about you guys, though? What now?” You asked, wrapping an arm around Jungkook’s middle, looking at them.  “Well, I’m going to need to head back to Red Hawk sooner or later.” Jimin sighed out. “Get back to work.”  “Yeah, Gallaticus has been unattended for a while, I might have to go back too,” Taehyung said.  “I can stay for a while after the first week, but I have a job coming up that I need to strategize, so, not for long,“ Namjoon said while resting his head on his hand.  “Same for me, my men need to come back,” Jin spoke out.  You looked at Yoongi and Hoseok, waiting for their answers, but all they did was look at their commander, they were with him till the very end. Jungkook sighed, letting his head rest back on the couch.  “I guess... We go back to our lives.” He finally spoke. You could tell there was a lot going through his head. Doubts, worries. “But you’re free to stay for as long as you like.” His gaze moved to you. You leaned up, pressing your lips to his softly, his eyes fluttering closed as you kissed him tenderly. It wasn’t an answer, but it was an appreciation.  After another hour, everyone started to retreat into their bedrooms, Jin and Jimin taking the first watch. You knew you were safe here, but Jungkook wanted to be sure, so for the first week, they’d take turns. Jungkook pulled you into his bedroom, he was tired, you could see it on his face. He was in his home, he could finally relax, you were safe.  Once you both changed, you walked over to him, wrapping your arms around his middle, resting your head on his back, and taking in a deep breath. He turned in your hold, wrapping his large arms around your tiny frame and walking backward until the back of his legs hit the mattress. He didn’t even mind falling down onto it with you in his arms, he soaked in it. In the feeling of you.  “Thank you.” You whispered out, nuzzling into his neck as if your life depended on it. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” You repeated it like a mantra, feeling your throat burn, your eyes burn.  He soothed you, caressing his hand up and down your back, pulling you flush against him.  “You don’t need to thank me. I was just doing my job.” He whispered, pressing his lips to your temple.  “I love you.” You let out in a broken voice, feeling the weight of the world almost lift off your shoulders.  “I love you, little dove.” He searched for your lips, pressing soft, tender kisses to your lips over and over. And then you both stayed like that, in each other’s arms, until you were both asleep.  A routine settled during the first week. Jin and Jimin would take watch during the night and sleep during the day, Taehyung and Namjoon took the day shift. Yoongi, Hobi, and Jungkook decided to continue your training while you were there to keep up not only your strength but their own. It was almost domestic, waking up with Jungkook every morning, soft kisses and morning voices, morning sex - a lot of morning sex - and getting to watch them act more freely with each other. It truly felt like a family. Your new family. Namjoon left once the first week was over. You gave him a long hug, hard and thanked him for everything. He said you were always welcome to come visit him and talk art once everything was over. The second to leave was Jin, not before cooking the most delicious breakfast you ever had and hugging you as tight as he could. You almost cried once he left, but held your tears when he said that you knew what to do now, that he was proud of how far you had come.  Once the second week rolled around Taehyung and Jimin decided it was time for them to leave.  They were both by the door with their backpacks, a lingering sadness on their faces after spending so much time with you.  “I’m going to miss you.” Taehyung hugged you tight. This time you couldn’t help the tears hiding your face into his neck. You didn’t want him to go, you didn’t know when you would see him again. Hugging Jimin, you dried your tears and watched the men say their goodbyes to each other with long lingering hugs and a lot of shared thank you’s.  Once they took off you leaned against the door frame with the three remaining men. The three men that had been with you from the start.  “Hey, Yoongi, and I are going to collect some wood, want to come with us?” Jungkook took you out of your thoughts as you still looked at the empty road ahead of you, where Taehyung and Jimin had left.  “No, I’m fine, I think I’m going to rest for a while.” You said.  “Yeah, I could use a nap,” Hobi added.  “You two get some rest, we’ll be back soon.” Jungkook smiled, leaning in to peck your lips.  Once they’re gone, you sit on the couch, going through all your memories with the men that had left, deciding to lay down you feel something hard underneath you. It was Jungkook’s black notebook. You look at it for a while pursing your lips, your eyes moving to the front door before deciding to take a look.  You weren’t expecting what you saw.  They were sketches.  Some were of people you didn’t know, but you could make out the boys, Yoongi laughing, Hoseok sleeping. Namjoon seated on a rock, Jin with his arms wide open. Jimin doing pushups. Taehyung’s boxy smile. These were all sketches of Jungkook’s family. You flipped through the pages until once sketch caught your eyes. It was you, sleeping against a car window, your pants pulled down your legs. The second was of you smiling in the dessert, a fire in front of you. You flipped through the pages of more and more sketches of you in situations you remembered. Some of only the boys, some of you with them. Your face kept showing up again and again, and you realized why Jungkook didn’t have any pictures around his house.  Because he registered his favorite memories. You found yourself bringing your hands to your lips, more tears filling your eyes.  A knock to the door breaks the moment, your brows furrowing. Jungkook and Yoongi wouldn’t knock, perhaps it was Jimin and Taehyung back because they forgot something. You quickly made your way to the door, opening it without hesitation and a smile on your face, the smile, though, quickly disappeared when you were met with a familiar face you hadn’t seen since the day you met Jungkook.  “Phillip.” You breathed out, surprised by the sudden visit.  “Miss Y/L/N.” He smiled at you. “I’m so happy to see you well.”  You were speechless for a while, still standing at the door.  “Yes... I’m safe.” You said.  “I knew I had chosen the right team to take care of you.” He smiled wider. “Is Jungkook here, I wanted a word with him regarding the mission.” He looked past you, through the door.  “Oh... No, Yoongi and him went to get some wood, but they should be back soon, please, come in.” You made way for him to enter the house.  You shut the door and guided him towards the living room. He sat in one of the armchairs, smiling at you and you sat right across him.  “I can see you guys encountered some trouble.” He said, pointing at the scar on your shoulder, your fingers quickly lifted, tracing the outline of it as the memory came rushing back to you.  “Yes, we had some trouble, but... We pulled through in the end.” You said.  “And have you already decided what to do?” He asked, and you furrowed your brows. “Regarding Jefferson John, I mean, have you decided how you’re going to expose him?” He rested his hands on his lap, the same soft smile on his lips.  “Well, I recorded a video on my first week here... I just haven’t decided what to do...” You started. “Wait... How do you know about Jefferson John?” You questioned, you remembered clearly that you hadn’t told anyone other than the boys about your suspicion. “How do you...?” Suddenly you felt highly suspicious about Phillip showing up, you also remembered Jungkook telling you coming to his house was a last-minute call, how did Phillip know? You didn’t think Jungkook would have told anyone out of the circle.  You suddenly stood up. Backing away from the man, your back hitting the kitchen counter.  He didn’t say anything, instead, he stood and took two steps.  “You have to understand miss Y/L/N, the world is cruel, I’m just doing my job.” He said in a calm voice as if the meaning of those words didn’t indicate that he was going to kill you.  “W-why get a team to protect me, w-why go through all that trouble?” You spat at him, rage fueling in your veins.  “Oh, I had to make sure no one else got the hit, of course.” He said simply.  You blindly patted under the kitchen counter behind you, looking for the gun you knew Jungkook had hidden.  “I selected my best team to make sure an asset as valuable as you were protected, you must understand.” He reached for something on his hip and you heard the click of a gun behind him.  “Hobi!” Your eyes bulged once you saw the man with a gun pointed to Phillip.  “Ah, Hoseok, fancy seeing you here. I guess I miscalculated.” Phillip didn’t even look at him, only pursed his lips, putting his hand back down.  “Phillip, I really don’t want to shoot you,” Hoseok said between clenched teeth.  “That’s why you’re not in charge.” He said before you heard a loud shot come through the window, shattering the glass and hitting Hoseok right on the side of his body.  Your eyes bulged, a loud ripping scream of his name coming from you as you watched him fall unconscious on the floor.  Phillip took out his gun, pointing it at you.  “Stay where you are.” He said, walking backward and kicking Hoseok’s gun further away from his hand. Tears streamed down your eyes as they were glued to your friend’s form, blood soaking through his shirt.  “Now, where were we.” He looked back at you right before you heard gunshots in front of the house. Jungkook was back, you took the moment of Philips distraction to launch yourself forward onto him, hands gripping at his wrist where he held the gun, using your elbow to hit at his jaw and try to disarm him, but he was well trained and you, well, you were barely trained.  It happened fast, Jungkook barging into the house, pointing his gun at the man and you, back flush against Phillip, his arm around your throat and a gun muzzle pressed to the side of your head.  “Let her go.” Jungkook sounded dangerous. He sounded possessed. Sweat dripping down his face and a look of pure rage in his eyes.  “I thought you were smarter than this,” Phillip said, a disappointed tone to his voice.  “I said, let her fucking go, Phillip.” He growled out.  “What are you going to do, shoot me?” He questioned, raising a brow. “You work for me, put your gun down.” He scoffed at Jungkook.  But Jungkook remained in position, ready to shoot.  “Stupid boy.” Was all Phillip said. “Bring him in.” He shouted and from the door came Yoongi at gunpoint, a man in all black with a black mask pressing his gun to the back of his head.  Jungkook’s eyes bulged, looking from you to Yoongi. And right there you understood his internal battle.  “Put the gun down, Jungkook, you’re outnumbered. If you don’t your friend dies.” Phillip grinned.  “Jungkook, don’t put the gun down.” Yoongi warned and hissed when the armed man pressed the gun harder onto his head, spitting out a “shut up”.  He looked at you, ultimate dread in his eyes. And right there you understood what he had said in the desert. When you’re in this line of work, people you love can be used as leverage. Your head went back to the memories you both had shared, to his black notebook. You were happy, he had made you happy, you could see it in his eyes, filling with tears, with dread. Fear, ultimate fear, and grief, one he knew he would feel.  You swallowed the hard lump in your throat as tears streamed down your face.  “It’s ok...” You said. “It’s ok, it’s not your fault.” You reassured him, nodding in the man’s tight hold. “I love you... Thank you for letting me love you, thank you so much for l-letting me love you.” He shook his head, the silent tears falling down his cheek. You could see him tremble.  “Jungkook, please, please don’t fucking do this,” Yoongi argued, receiving a strong hit to his side.  “Put the gun down, Jungkook... It’s ok, I love you.” You watched his stance falter, and you closed your eyes, ready to embrace what was coming next.  You heard the familiar sound of gunshots, the familiar feeling of something hitting you, but not in the head, almost just like the first day, and your body slumped down to the floor, the pain radiating all through your body before you blacked out.  n/a: see you in the next and final chapter of Raven Unit. 

After Jungkook showed you just how much you were his for a second, third, and fourth very quick and hard time while you were drying yourselves, you both finally decided to join the rest of the unit in the main room. As you both made your ways down the stairs, hand in hand, the boys were all seated at the dining table lazily, empty plates in front of them.  “I would have said get a room, but that also doesn’t seem to keep us from hearing you both act like horny teenagers,” Jimin complained as you both made your way to them.  You blushed as you sat down, Jungkook smirking as he went around the table and put the absurd amount of food on his plate.  You only sat as the boys continued to talk. As Jungkook sat beside you, you looked at the end of the large table, Namjoon was quiet as he listened to Yoongi talk, but his eyes were on you, observing you. Regardless of you both having introduced yourselves earlier, he still seemed intrigued and somehow, the look in his eyes made you shiver.  “So, we should talk about the plan, we only have two days to prepare,” Jungkook spoke as he used his hand to put the piece of chicken inside his mouth.  His unit quickly turned to him, paying attention to their commander.  “Namjoon, what do you got for us?” He asked, resting his back on the chair, one hand placed above the table and his head tilted to the side, his legs parted. Jungkook seemed like his normal self like this, closed, dark, dangerous.  Namjoon’s eyes shifted to you for a second before looking back at Jungkook, he breathed in.  “We have an opening in an auction ship, it’s a gala event, masquerade.” He started. “The ship will leave around Nine PM and should cross the border at around Eleven.” He stated.  “So, we’ll have to stay hidden for two hours,” Yoongi commented.  “Yes. it’s the only ship that won’t be intercepted by border police. If we’re able to cross the border without any trouble, I can arrange a small boat to meet us on the other side, so we can go to the safe house.” He continued.  Jungkook shook his head.  “No, we can’t involve outsiders, the chances of them betraying us are too high.” He leaned both elbows against the table. “What is our other option?”  Namjoon pursed his lips.  “We can always stay on the boat, but then we won’t be able to stay hidden for long until it reaches the docks, they do security checks every three hours, we’d have to be part of the party.” He put a hand on his chin as if in deep thought. “The problem is, she isn’t exactly a strange face right now.” He lifted an eyebrow as he looked at you. “She’s been all over the news worldwide.”  You slowly shrink in your seat, eyes falling to the table. You were the one making the whole plan to guarantee your safety difficult.  “What if I change myself, I don’t know, cut my hair, paint it?” You suggested and Jungkook turned to look at you.  “That could help, especially if your face is partially hidden.” Said Namjoon.  “It seems like a cool plan, but we’re forgetting the most important thing...” Hoseok started. “Sneaking into the boat and staying there for two hours is one thing, having an invitation is another.” And you bit on your lower lip, he was right. You looked at Jungkook, ready to reason with him on the idea of another boat to meet them beyond the border, but Namjoon chuckled.  “Please, are you forgetting who I am?” He arrogantly spoke, making Jimin roll his eyes and Taehyung chuckle. “I’ll get an invitation, but I probably won’t get eight, probably one for myself and a plus one, I can put the rest of you on as waiters.” “And who is going to be your plus one?” Jungkook asks, even though he already knew the answer.  “Why, Raven, of course?” His mouth slowly lifted in a side smirk.  You wanted to be annoyed at his arrogance, but it was somehow so attractive that it made you shiver once more in your seat, even if Namjoon was someone Jungkook trusted, the little stunt he had pulled earlier had you doubting his loyalty.  “I’ll do it.” You spoke out, almost challenging.  The boys all looked at you.  “Ok, let’s start planning then,” Jungkook spoke out, lifting from his seat. “Raven, eat something, Namjoon, I need to speak to you... Alone.” He said before he walked out.  Namjoon only carried an amused smirk on his lips as his eyes flicked from Jungkook to you for a second before he got up from his seat to follow.  “Excuse me.” He said low before he was out of the room.  “Those two will never change,” Taehyung commented as he got up from his seat and walked to the couch, dropping down and reaching into his jacket pocket to retrieve a flask.  “So it’s not just me, the tension is real?” You spoke out, reaching across the table to grab a piece of bread. It was Yoongi’s turn to chuckle.  “Oh, it’s real all right, sometimes too real.” He tiredly spoke out, resting his head back against the chair, you furrowed your brows, looking at Jin, who still ate quietly, that man could eat for hours if allowed.  “It’s a long story, Raven, are you sure you’re up for it?” He said as he swallowed his food, you munched on a piece of bread, nodding.  “Well... When Jungkook joined White Tiger, Namjoon was his first in command, we had two years of training with Joon in charge, and let me tell you, he did not go easy on Jungkook. As a matter of fact, it was noticeable just how differently he treated him. More severe punishments, longer hours in the heat of the desert, even doing mundane things as serve him coffee in the morning or cook breakfast for the rest of the unit. But, Jungkook was very dedicated, he took every beating, every humiliation, every hard task until he eventually ranked up and become commander, above Namjoon. We all expected him to get his petty revenge of him, but instead, he still looked at him for guidance, it was Jungkook and right beside him Namjoon, the both almost commanded as a duo at one point. If Jungkook gave a strategy and Namjoon wasn’t in par with it, he’d change his mind. He looked up to him even if he was his commander. Things changed though when Jungkook fell in love with a soldier from another unit.” You shifted in your seat. Uncomfortable with the thought of Jungkook falling in love prior to you. You knew that it was only natural, even you had fallen in love before him, but still, it felt weird. “Her name was Irina.” Jin looked down at the table. “She was what you can call a very fierce soldier, she was fast, sharp, loved bantering with Jungkook when we were out in the field. And eventually both our units got paired together for a special rescue mission that would last about two months. Of course, Jungkook and Irina got close and his feelings bloomed, she on the other hand, just wanted to get laid... And Jungkook wasn’t the only one.” Your eyebrows raised at the implications of what he was saying.  “So... Namjoon?” You asked, and Jin chuckled bitterly.  “Oh, Raven... Yes, but not just him.” He looked at the boys and your eyes followed.  “Me.” Yoongi raised his hand, head still rested back and eyes closed.  “Me too.” Jimin chimed in, nodding.  “Did she fuck the whole Unit?” You asked with surprise. Not that it was a problem, but honestly, how powerful could this one woman be to sleep with seven of the most gorgeous yet dangerous man on the planet.  “Not me,” Jin said, shrugging. “My heart is taken.” He put a grape into his mouth. “But that’s not the point, and her sleeping around isn’t the point either, the point is... Feelings. Jungkook had feelings for her, the rest of the boys didn’t, but Namjoon on the other hand.” He raised an eyebrow.  “So you’re telling me that because of one girl there’s tension?” You raised your foot to rest on the chair.  “No, you see, Jungkook looks up to Namjoon as an older brother, we’re all family here. The tension isn’t because they both were in love with the same girl, the tension is there because Jungkook let go of her for Namjoon, and when the mission was a go, Namjoon made a wrong call, didn’t listen to Jungkook and she didn’t make it.” Jin finished.  So, she had died.  “Jungkook trusts Namjoon, though, that was a long time ago,” Yoongi spoke, opening his eyes and looking at you. “He made a mistake and there were casualties, unfortunately, but, they both forgave each other and moved on, the tension is still there though, and with you in the picture, it just puts Jungkook on edge.” He explained. “If Namjoon makes a mistake, Jungkook not only fucks up a mission, but he loses someone he loves.”  You breathed in, understanding the situation a little more now that you knew why the air shifted when they both spoke about your safety.  “Joon dropped out of WT after that, started working with... Well, even we don’t know what he does, but he’s filthy rich, moves in the shadows, and can kill you in a blink of an eye.” Taehyung spoke from the couch, taking another sip from his flask.  “Like a Ninja,” Hobi added.  “Shut up, Hobi.” Jimin chuckled. “Namjoon hasn’t fucked up ever since. I think he learned his lesson.” He nodded.  “Honestly, though, It’s kind of fun to watch their sense of competition even though they love each other to death, the way they just stare at each other for minutes on end, challenging to see who blinks first.” Yoongi cracked his neck.  “So, it’s a pissing contest?” You leaned against the table, rolling your eyes. Men. “It starts with staring, and soon their whipping out their dicks to see which one is bigger.” You let out an airy chuckle.  “I can assure you mine is bigger.” You heard Namjoon’s voice coming down the stairs, Jungkook not following. You spun your head around in his direction, ignoring his comment.  “Everyone, time to call it a night, we have things to do tomorrow.” He informed in the middle of the stairs, looking down at his unit.  The boys all silently agreed, all exhausted and ready for a good night’s sleep.  “The only reason I like Armstrong is because the beds are fucking amazing.” Taehyung made his way to the stairs.  “And the food,” Jin added.  “And the showers.” Jimin also added.  “Let’s not talk about showers while Raven is here.” Yoongi teased, getting up and following the others up the stairs. You shot him the middle finger, still seated and chewing on the food in front of you.  “Goodnight everyone.” You spoke out and received mumbled ‘good night’s back.  It was quiet for a while after they all disappeared into the wing, but soon you heard footsteps, already knowing they belonged to the tall man.  He slowly made his way to you, pulling the chair right beside yours and sitting, crossing one leg over the other.  “So they told you the story.” He spoke out calmly. You only nodded, not looking up at him and he hummed.  “So... Bro’s before hoes isn’t your thing?” You finally questioned, looking up at him, he chuckled, amused with your words.  “We don’t choose who we fall in love with, Raven.” He spoke out with longing in his voice and regret in his eyes. “I was madly in love with her and didn’t even know she was fooling around with anyone else until Jungkook came to me for advice.” He breathed in. “At first I debated in weather I should tell him or not, but I could see that look in his eyes, you know? Jungkook has this boyish look to him sometimes.” And you knew what he was talking about. “I just didn’t have the heart to tell him at first. But once I realized she was sleeping with everyone, I told him. I told him to protect him because I knew that he would give her up immediately.” He looked at you. “And he did, and I would love to say that it was one hundred percent for unselfish reasons, but there was also a part of me that wanted her to myself.” He admitted. “And to be fair, she was in love with me too.” He looked down at the table.  You felt sympathy for him, not for his ‘protecting Jungkook’ excuse, but because even if you don’t think he did the right thing, he still lost someone he loved.  “The day of the mission, it was a bad call, it was too quiet, and I felt like we had an opening, Jungkook, on the other hand, felt like something was wrong. And instead of hearing him out, I gave the command to go forward. Irina was first in line as we entered the building. Motion triggered bomb went off, and we had to retreat.” He wet his lips. “Couldn’t even get her body back.” His voice lowered in tone.  You breathed in.  “I’m really sorry.” You sincerely offered him. He looked up at you, eyes less mysterious than before.  “I’m still in the process of forgiving myself. I send her family money every month, more than I should, honestly.” He furrows his brows. “But, it gives me a sense of comfort to know that I can provide at least something for them.” He smiled bitterly.  “We all make mistakes, ones bigger than the other, but mistakes are mistakes and there is no point in trying to change the past. I’m sure you’re a good man and your intentions are good, but I’m not just saying this because my life is at risk, I’m saying this because I love these boys, I love Jungkook...” You slowly got up. “Don’t fuck up, we need you.” You admitted. He looked up at you, nodding in understanding and someone cleared their throat up in the mezzanine. You looked up.  “Time for bed, Raven.” Jungkook looked down with shining eyes and you smiled wide when you saw him, looking quickly back at Namjoon.  “Goodnight.” You said quickly.  Preparing for the plan was easier than you thought. Art? You knew well about it. Etiquette? You were raised into it. How to portray a sophisticated, well educated, elegant woman? That was your essence. While you still trained with Yoongi and Jungkook in the two days prior to the mission, you still were curious as to what Namjoon did, who he was in general. He was a quiet, yet mysterious man. He was obviously rich, at this point, you assumed all of them were, but there was still something different about Namjoon, a certain Malice to him that had you always watching from the corner of your eye when he sat in the corner of the room with a black notebook in his hand, almost similar to Jungkook’s.  You and Jungkook had spent barely any time together other than the first night and training. In between he was with Namjoon, making sure everything happened according to plan, making sure there were no loopholes, not bad calls.  So when you woke up the day of the mission to an empty bed, you sat up, breathing in deeply as you looked around. You noticed the white sating robe hanging on the bathroom door and left the bed walking towards it, there was a note.  “Spend this day as if nothing had changed. You deserve it. - JK.” You smiled, taking the soft fabric in between your fingers to feel it. It had been a while since you looked at something so pretty, and as simple as a white sating robe could be, it made you nostalgic. You placed it over your white top and shorts and made your way to the main entrance, furrowing your brows as you looked down from the mezzanine, seeing a table fool of food and Namjoon at one end, dressed in his dark gray suit and bringing a white porcelain mug to his lips while he read the same black notebook from the other days.  “Good morning.” He spoke without looking at you. You flinched slightly at the sound of his voice echoing through the space. You would ask how he noticed you were there, but you remembered he was just as deadly and sharp as the others.  Sighing and slowly making your way down the stairs you sat quietly at the other end, avoiding eye contact.  “How did you sleep?” He asked, making small talk. You looked up as you reached for a pastry.  “I slept well, thank you.” You answered simply. For some reason, being around Namjoon made you nervous, not in a predatory kind of way, but as much as you loved Jungkook, Namjoon was what you would call your type before all of this had happened. “Where are the boys?” You asked, wondering.  “They’re at work.” He answered finally looking up at you, you gave him an inquisitory look. “They’re waiters today, work started at six am sharp for them, preparing for the gala.” He explained. You nodded, biting into the sweet pastry.  The rest of breakfast was quiet, not only did Namjoon understand you weren’t one to talk much, but you had a feeling he sensed you were uneasy next to him.  When you finished, you slowly got up.  “Excuse me.” You said quietly and as you turned to make your way to the stairs he spoke.  “Raven.” You turned to him, he hadn’t called you by anything other than your code name since the day you arrived. “There should be a dress and some other accessories for you in the bathroom, we leave at seven.” He informed while a smile that bordered on the amused.  You didn’t answer, instead only nodded and made your way back to your room.  Time went by quicker than you’d like to admit, and when it was time for you to get ready, you were surprised to see everything you needed in the bathroom. Makeup, hair die, jewelry, high heels, and hanging from the wall a black velvet dress with a low chest line with falling straps and a high side opening. Instead of surveying everything, you quickly got ready, more nervous about the mission than enchanted with the fancy things.  You remembered Jungkook’s words as you looked at yourself in the mirror once you were ready. “You’re so beautiful it hurts.” He had said. You felt beautiful, but the constant dread inside of you also made you feel small, vulnerable. You leaned against the sink, taking a few deep breaths before you fixed your holster higher up your thigh, placing your gin right in the middle. You looked like a different person, your hair now a completely different shade from the one you had grown up with. It suited you, you thought. The dress hugged your body perfectly, the thick velvet straps handing from your shoulders and your breasts perked up. The side cut came all the way to the beginning of your tight, allowing your leg to peak out when you walked, and on your feet, simple black stilettos. You had decided for a minimalistic look on your face, a thick wing eyeliner, and red lips, ears adorned with what you were surprised to find out, were real diamond earrings and a bracelet.  Making your way to the main entry, you spotted Namjoon once more.  Oh, it wasn’t fair.  He wore a fitted black suit, undershirt just as black and no tie. His hair was parted in the middle, perfectly styled and he had abandoned the glasses. You made your way down the stairs, holding onto the tail of your dress and his eyes looked up at you, fixing his cuffs.  If you didn’t know better, you’d say he was gaping. Quickly swallowing and extending his hand once you were close enough to take it.  “You look stunning.” He commented once you were face to face. You blushed, pursing your lips.  He was quiet as he looked at you, eyeing down your dress.  “The dress is beautiful, please thank whoever chose it out.” You tried to break the uncomfortable silence.  “You’re welcome.” He lifted a brow.  You looked up at him. He had chosen the dress. He surely was a man of fine taste.  “Should we go?”  You swallowed, apprehensive.  He didn’t say anything, instead, he turned his back to you and reached for something on top of the couch, turning his finger, signaling you to turn around. You did, waiting.  He placed the mask slowly over your eyes, you lifted your hand, holding it in place as he tied the lace ends together behind your head. As you turned to him, he placed his, looking at you and lifting an eyebrow. This man was seriously mysterious.  “Time to go.” He informed.  Namjoon walked past you, stopping just ahead and extending his hand once more, you took it, following him into the hallway and out to his large garage. He chose a more discrete car, a black BMW sedan, and helped you get in, making his way to the driver seat.  When you were both out into the city, you clutched your knees tightly, eyes roaming around everything and heart beating violently in your chest.  “What’s wrong, Raven?” Namjoon asked as he drove, not taking his eyes off the road.  “I’m just... I’m not used to being out in public, not used to not being around Jungkook or Yoongi, and the rest of the boys.” You admitted, feeling the anxiety swirl in your stomach as the night city lights flashed by. Namjoon was quiet.  “Let’s talk, then, ask me anything you want to know, maybe that will distract you, Raven.” He said in a calm voice. You chuckled bitterly.  “You haven’t called me by my name once ever since we met.” You said.  “Well, I stick to protocol most of the time, I just don’t call the other by their code names because we’re intimate, although, I do sometimes call Taehyung Gallaticus just to tease him.” He laughed. You turned your head in his direction.  “Wait, so Gallaticus is his code him?” You asked.  “Yes, just as Red Hawk is Jimin’s and Seamore is Jin’s, we just call that the locations because that’s where they are.” He shrugged.  “So, what are the other’s code names?” You rested your back against the leather seat, feeling calmer.  “Hoseok is Fire Lily, he chose it himself, we kind of made fun of him for a while, but honestly, the kid is a flower, it makes sense. Yoongi is Nirvana, not like the band, like the literal meaning, although he does have a grunge way to him.” Namjoon’s lips stretched into a fond smile, something you hadn’t seen so far.  “And Jungkook?” You were the most curious about.  Namjoon only glanced your way, taking in a deep breath and letting it out slowly.  “Black Crow.” He answered.  You were quiet as it settled in, you remembered the day in the car, in the desert. The day when you chose your code name, and he had said it fits you. Maybe it was a coincidence, maybe it wasn’t, maybe life, destiny, whatever it was, wanted you and Jungkook to meet despite the horrible circumstances, and that meant you weren’t meant to die, not now, not yet. Not without sharing a life with him, regardless of how that life would be after you told the world the truth, regardless if you’d have to be on the run if you’d go back and be a diplomat again. If everything suddenly changed, if Jungkook came to the conclusion that you weren’t meant to be, you’d always be Raven and he would always be Black Crow.  Sooner than you expected, you were parking at the valet, at the docs, Namjoon quickly making his way around the car as he stopped the valet boy from opening the door, assuming you’d be nervous with such an interaction. He helped you out, taking your hand and putting it under his arm as he walked you to the boat. As you both waited in line, you squeezed Namjoon’s arm, eyes roaming around nervously, what if someone recognized you? “Raven... You’re safe.” He whispered as you approached the two men at the entrance of the boat. Namjoon just kindly said his name, not a fake one, just his name, and they quickly checked the list, smiling and indicating for the both of you to make your way in.  When you both boarded you looked around, looking for the other six, wondering where they were, just a glimpse of them and you’d feel safer. But the uniformed waiters were nowhere to be seen so far and Namjoon pulled you along to a more secluded area of the boat.  You barely noticed you were out of breath until Namjoon held you by your arms, making your look at him. Your eyes were slightly bulged, chest rising, and falling rapidly.  “You’re safe.” He spoke more firmly. “The others are here, they’re armed, I’m armed.” He raised his eyes to the crowd, making sure no one could hear him. “You’re safe.” He said once more, making you nod and breath in deeply. He comforted you, caressing his hand up and down the sides of your arms.  “Mam, a drink?” You heard one of the waiters offer. You barely looked at the man as you took the glass of water, not until he spoke again. “Touch her like that again and I’ll cut your fingers off.” Your head spun around to look at the man.  Jungkook. It was Jungkook.  Carrying a tray of water.  He was dressed in a white dress shirt with a black bowtie, black pants, and shiny shoes. His hair was pushed back, styled as you had never seen before and your eyes bulged. Namjoon only chuckled at his commander’s comment and Jungkook finally looked at you, eyes ranking down your body and back up, pitch black with darkness. Your breathing picked up again at the pure danger in his eyes.  “You look fucking sinful.” His whispered and you felt a shiver roll down your body. “I’d like to personally get you out of that, more like rip you out of that.” He smirked. Smirked.  “That’s a three thousand dollar dress, Jungkook,” Namjoon informed.  “Yeah? And you can suck my dick.” He argued with the older. “Let’s get back to work, lay low.” He informed before he sent you a wink and walked back to the crowd.  And you barely noticed you were calmer as he walked away.  He was here, Jungkook was here. And so were the others.  You were safe.  They were safe.  Weren’t they?

You had always heard the stories that they told about the twilight creature, of courageous girls going into the woods just before the sun starts setting on the horizon, on how they never returned and the ones that did, had no recollection of what had happened. You, of course, were always curious, but you had never had a courageous bone in your body. In fact, you had no interest in meeting such a creature. But you had promised your mother you'd go look for some wood to start a fire as the night would be cold, and you had planned on doing just that after lunch, but you had taken your book and found a comfortable stop just below a willow tree and barely noticed the time go by and the sun began its descent. When the orange glow hit your white dress and the white pages of your book, your brows furrowed in confusion, sitting up and looking on the horizon, you gasped. You quickly got up, patting away the dirt that had gathered and started to make your way back to the small town you called home, remembering to collect some dry wood as you used your dress to carry it along the woods. With your book neatly put away in your leather side purse, you hummed as you gathered what you needed, too patient and too forgetful to remember the dangers of being there at those hours. But your calm and innocent walk soon was interrupted. "Hello." A calm soothing voice spoke from within the woods. Your head shot up, searching for its owner, but you saw nothing, nothing but the orange hue of sun rays seeping through the trees. You peered around and yet, no one was there, hesitant, you continued to gather the wood and eventually, when your dress got heavy you decided it was time to go back. As you turned on your heels you were met with a man, standing just where the sun hit. You were startled, letting go of the hem of your dress and dropping the wood you had collected. He was beautiful, jawline perfectly carved, skin a honey-kissed tone, dark eyes that looked almost like the old oak the surrounded you. His hair looked soft and the locks fell messily on his forehead, his pink lips lifting in a lopsided smile as he tilted his head to look at you, curiosity in his eyes. He wore a white cotton shirt, the leather ties on the top loose and the sleeves fluffy, adorned with golden buttons. His pants were pitch black, but the longer you looked, the more they seemed like you could see galaxies in them, and he was barefoot, feet carefully placed on the soil, the warm and dirty soil. "Hello." He spoke, his voice slipped through his lips like velvet, pulling you in slowly, you almost took a step closer, but something in the back of your head screamed 'no'. And you halted, shaking your head and looking up at him in confusion. His brows furrowed, but his smile remained, he was utterly curious. "Who are you?" You asked. The foot that had threatened to step forward took a cautious step back. His eyes shifted to the movement, his smile stretching even further. "You're not here to look for me, are you?" He questioned, taking a step to the side, but never on a twig or leaf. It didn't seem like he walked, it seemed like he floated. You parted your lips, but his question had you intrigued. You lifted a brow, your own head tilting as you slowly crossed your arms. "Why would I look for you, are you missing?" You asked. You had always been known to be sassy and men in your town found that interesting, but eventually your lack of compliance made their alpha male masculinity hurt too much and they would say you're one to die unmarried. Your inquiry made him laugh, and oh you were not prepared for it. His laugh bounced on the trees and roamed around your body lifting every little hair on your exposed and clothed skin until you felt breathless, and your hand came to rest on your chest. What is this? He took another step, this time slowly walking around you, and you followed, turning in your spot, never wanting to give your back to this stranger that had interrupted your search for wood. "I've never met someone who wasn't looking for me before, you're quite interesting." He spoke as he watched you, eyes roaming every inch of your body, clothes, shoes, even the wood on the floor as if he was critically analyzing every little detail. "You're beautiful." He whispered, making you hold your breath, your heart stuttering in your chest. And it had you preoccupied, but he was also ethereal, his skin glowed so beautifully in the light it was almost as if he had created it himself. "Who are you?" You asked again, as he had made a half-circle around your body, far enough that you could run if you had to. "I'm sure you've heard stories about me, I hear whispers from your village, I seem to be very popular around there." He looked down at the ground, hands lifting and resting inside his pockets, and that smile, that curious yet slightly cocky smile still beautifully painted on his lips. You held onto the leather of your purse, lifting a brow and shrugging. "I don't know who you are." You spoke simply, it was true, you didn't. If he was as popular as he said he was, you would have at least heard about the handsome man. "No? Never heard the tale of the one that steals unloved women at the sun's golden hour?" He tilted his head looking at you from the corner of his eyes. You went silent, confused about what he was saying, your brows furrowing in confusion once more and you looked down pensively, he didn't mean... "The Twilight Creature?" You questioned, looking up at him, not one ounce of belief in your eyes, it amused him even more. "I prefer Jungkook." He finally stopped walking, turning his body to you and the sun hit his profile while his hands left his pockets to rest behind his back neatly. You looked at him for a few seconds, a mocking smile slowly spreading on your lips. He couldn't be serious, if anything, this Jungkook was truly out of his mind, especially if he lived in these woods alone for so long and you laughed. His eyes filled with wonder at your laugh, yet one more thing that amused him. You didn't believe him. "Well, Jungkook..." You spoke his name while you laughed and his smile faltered for a second, he wasn't used to hearing his name in such a mocking manner, such an unamused one. It only made him want to get closer, want to take you quicker, keep you to himself for a while, maybe a few days before you reached your purpose. "My name is..." "Y/N." He spoke your name. You halted your laugh, your face settling into surprise. He knew your name, yet you had never met him before, and you were sure you had never seen him around town either. "How do you know my name?" You asked, gripping tighter on your leather strap. He smiled again, a smile too inviting, too calm and safe. "I know the names of all the lonely women that enter my woods, you are no different." He finally felt like he had the upper hand, like he had regained control of the situation like he always had, with all the women. He took a step forward, ready for his first offer. You scoffed, rolling your eyes at him and he stopped. "I am in no way lonely, sir." You crossed your arms and tilted your chin up, a defying stance on your face and oh was he amused, intrigued, was he interested. You were new. You weren't like the other beautiful and loveless women that had looked for him in the hopes to be the one to remember or the one to be loved, you... you were simply a girl in the woods in the wrong hour and that was already a reason for him to want more. "I choose to be alone." You informed him and he took one more step towards you, your eyes moving to his feet, letting him know you noticed. "And why would you chose such a thing?" He asked, almost hurt at your words. He was one that always sought company, that is why he always gave them a choice, to stay or to go, but most of them chose to stay and he made sure they did forever, to keep him company when the night went too dark. "Why wouldn't I?" You questioned him, shrugging once more. "When you are comfortable in your solitude and enjoy your own company, why would chose to fill your immaculate quiet time with people who will most likely disappoint you?" He stopped once more, his face finally serious as he took in your words. What you described didn't seem like something joyous or fun, it didn't seem like something that thrilled and entertained, he was irritated almost. "That sounds terrible." He argued, lifting a brow as he took one more step closer. "Having company is always good, I for one always enjoy the ones I take with me and the ones that stay forever, I take good care of them and make sure they are loved." He was now but a few feet from you. He didn't seem dangerous, if he wanted to hurt you, he would have a while ago, but he did seem crazy, speaking of himself as if he were such mythical creature people spoke of, you decided to indulge him, after all, you were not one to argue with idiots. "I think you take them because you're lonely." You quickly smiled, knowing that you had settled the argument. He lifted his chin, and right there you noticed the sadness in his eyes, maybe you had been rude, maybe you didn't need to say such a thing, because now, you missed the warm smile that adorned his lips. He parted them and you waited for a witty comment or an angry response, instead, he sighed. "So, you believe me?" He asked and the tension you had accumulated dissipated as his lips stretched in a sweet, boyish smile. You chuckled and his eyes glinted with wonder. "No, but then again, I'm not one to argue with crazy ones, if you say you're the twilight creature, so be it." You shrugged. "It was nice meeting you, Jungkook." You spoke as you slowly turned your back to him and crouched down to gather the wood you had dropped.   In a blink of an eye, he was right in front of you, crouched down before you and grabbing the same log you had grabbed. You fell back on your behind, startled once more as a gasp left your lips. "Let me prove it to you." There was a sense of urgency in his voice as he extended his hand. "How did you?" You started but he shook his head, extending his head further, pleading with his eyes for you to take it. "Let me prove to you that having company can be just as good as the quiet you so cherish, let me prove it to you." His eyes were filled with a silent promise of adventure, of something you were unfamiliar with, of wonder and grace, his eyes were... tempting you. And even if you had questions, even if there was a nagging voice in the back of your head telling you to go home, to grab the wood and do what you were told, you just couldn't resist the temptation of what he was offering you. Stretching out your hand, you hesitantly grabbed his, and it felt like a ray of light exploded around you both. The dull brown and dark green forest coming alive, every shade of green vibrant and every tree vibrating, the flowers that you couldn't see before painted every corner around you both in purples, pinks, and blues, the orange of the sun shining on the greenest grass with sparks of gold, the birds beautifully singing all around as the butterflies took free flight in every corner. It was like you were in a fairytale as in the books you read. Your eyes bulged and the breath was taken right out your lungs as he slowly helped you up, your head and body turning to take in everything, and you barely noticed you were gripping has hand tightly when you heard him chuckle. Your head shot in his direction, your eyes falling to your hands together and you let go, taking a few steps back. His stance changed, noticing you were afraid and his brows lifted. "Don't be afraid." He lifted his hands, trying to show you he was harmless. That was also the first time that someone had been afraid of him after he showed them what he saw, how he lived. "W-what are you?" You stuttered out, taking a few steps back. He looked confused at your question. "I told you." He said and both your hands came to your head, looking around once more and back at him. You couldn't believe this. You couldn't believe your eyes nor the information slowly settling into your bones and mind. "But you're a man!" Your voice came out high pitched, looking up and down his very much human-like body. He rested his hands in his pockets and pursed his lips. "Well, I am built like a man, yes, but I'm not human." He said as if he was saying the most neutral thing in the world, yet you, you were losing your mind. So he wasn't crazy, he definitely was the twilight creature and you had just had a conversation with him and accepted whatever offer he had given you. You had accepted his offer, did that mean... "You take women! You steal them!" You screamed at him, backing further away. "You're going to steal me!" You looked around for anything to use to defend yourself, picking up a thick piece of wood and pointing it in his direction. He scoffed, offended at your words. Never had he encountered someone who spoke such words to him and acted the way you were acting, ready to fight him. "Oh, please, I do not steal women. I am not a kidnapper." It was his turn to roll his eyes. "I offer them a choice, they can stay with me if they want, or they can leave but not remember a thing, and put that down before you hurt yourself." He sighed, irritated, that was a new feeling to him. You remained still, taking in his words. He didn't seem like he was lying and you did remember the ones that had returned with no memory of what had happened, had those women made the choice to not stay? You kept the piece of wood firmly in your palms, still pointing at him, not putting it down in case he tried something. As he noticed your stubbornness he sighed once more, lifting his finger. The wood in your hand slowly started to shift, fresh green leaves growing and flowers blooming until it got too heavy to hold and you dropped it on the floor as if it burned your skin. You straightened your back, cleaning your hands on your dress. "Very well then, I would like to go home." You crossed your arms. His lips parted and they opened and closed a few times as he searched his mind for words at your attitude. "But you haven't even seen anything yet!" He argued. "Neither do I want to. Take me back, right now." You demanded. "You're stubborn." He crossed his arms, scoffing through his nose. "I might be stubborn, but my stubbornness keeps me alive." You lifted a brow at him, your nose high in the air. His features softened at your words, a soft smile spreading on his lips as he looked down at the floor. "I'm not going to hurt you, Y/N." He spoke calmly, softly. "Why should I believe you?" You questioned and watched as he took careful steps towards you, looking up and watching as you held your place. He offered his hand once more. "Let me show you something." He spoke softly, palm facing up, waiting. You breathed in, hesitant to take his hand once more, what if he wouldn't let go this time? But still, there was something about this, about him, that made you believe his words and you lifted your palm, placing it above his. He smiled up at you, turning your palm in his hand so it also faced up. "Your body... It's made of this earth and these leaves and the sunlight." He placed his finger from his other hand on your palm, his eyes focused on it and you looked at it, watching, curious. "When your time comes you will lay with the blooming flowers and the critters of the earth and you will all become one." A spark shined on your palm, his finger circling around and around above your palm until slowly you could see something happen. Right there on your palm bloomed a flower, white petals with purple ends, so bright and beautiful your eyes shined with wonder. The scent from such flower filled your nostrils and you fluttered your eyes closed to take in the scent as it felt so familiar. "And If I wanted to... Which I don't... I could turn you and the earth into one with a blink of an eye." You looked up at him, his eyes still admiring the flower in your palm as if he was witnessing something for the first time, a miracle even before he lifted them up to you. "I have no wish of hurting you, my offer was sincere, if you still wish to return, I'll take you back, but if not, allow me to show you what I mean, allow me to prove you wrong." His eyes sparkled with hope and you took in a deep breath, looking down at the flower in your hand and back up at him, pursing your lips, you relaxed. "Very well then. I'd like to see just how you intend on proving to me that having company is better than the comfort of my solitude..." He smiled wide with excitement, already grabbing your hand and turning in place to pull you along with him. "... And watch you fail." You smirked as he stopped, turning around to look at you with annoyance. "You really are stubborn, aren't you?" He chuckled as he pulled you along, the flower in your palm falling to the floor, forgotten. "It's what they tell me." You laughed following him as he tugged you between the breathing trees. Everything around you didn't seem real, it all seemed to come straight from a painting, smudged watercolors together that created gradients in each petal, leaf, and creature. As he slowly made his way through the vibrant woods you could hear the streaming river as you approached it, his head turning in your direction to make sure you were still with him, still sure. He had never felt uneasy with anyone, always certain that they would come, always certain that they would stay, even the ones that chose to go back, even those followed him and took him and what he offered in with a will and might. But you, he was unsure, he wasn't certain if you wanted his company, if his company phased you at all, you were just a mystery as he was and that made you a myth in his eyes. As you both approached the river, he stopped walking by the rocks, ready to help you step upon them as he always did with the other women. But your eyes bulged as you saw the water, letting go of his hand and grabbing your dress to hurry your pace and jump upon a gray rock to lean over it and marvel in what you saw. He stayed back, watching your adventurous spirit take its own steps, make its own decisions. Wild and free like the streaming river. You were taken for words as you peered down the water, the vibrant light blue mixed with a hue of purple and the fish sparkled as they swam quickly down the stream, jumping and shining against the orange sun, reflecting against the gray rocks in a beautiful dance that had you gasping and giggling in wonder. He slowly made his way towards you, stopping just beside you to watch what he had created. He was good at his craft, at making the world a more colorful vibrant place, but he also knew that humans could destroy it, so he preserved the essence of his beautiful creation where he could. You turned your head to him, a smile spread on your lips as you breathed in. "It's beautiful." You said with a sigh. He smiled at you, thinking the same thing, but not of the river you admired, but the wild one just beside him. "You should see the lake further down, the sun makes it look like a river of gold." He commented and your eyes bulged in wonder as you grabbed his hand and pulled him along, rushing down the edge of the running water, jumping from rock to rock with no fear of falling, no fear of losing your step. When you reached the destination, you let go of his hand once more and he grimaced, not enjoying the way it felt empty when you let go. He watched your walk slowly around the shore, the sun hitting you perfectly and even if it wasn't his doing, you looked magical. You sat down on the grass of the small field resting back on your hands and letting the sun warm your skin. He closed his eyes as he watched, he could feel you, he could feel your delicate palm against the grass and every inch and pore on your exposed skin, if he concentrated further, he could feel the air in your lungs, but he decided to keep his eyes open and look at you as you were while he could. Making his way slowly to you, he sat down by your side silently, he wasn't used to the silence when he had a human with him, they usually spoke of many things, things he asked about and maybe this time he was enjoying the silence, but he couldn't contain his curiosity. "Do you like it?" He asked and you hummed, opening your eyes to look at him. "It doesn't feel real." You spoke softly and he looked at the lake. "It's as real as you allow it to be." He said after a few seconds. "I would want every human to see the wonders I create, but in the past, they had destroyed them, so I decided to protect it as best as I can." He informed. "Wait, you created this?" You asked, curious as you crossed your legs and leaned forward to get closer to him. He chuckled, amused as he had never been asked that question before. Today was a day of many firsts apparently. "I created most of what humans call nature. The soil, the seeds, the leaves, and the flowers. I also created the critters and the butterflies, every living creature that makes this echo system live and breathe, birds, spiders, fish." You listened to every little word carefully, unable to understand the grandness of his words, was he a god? Was he the God? "But what about God?" You asked and he turned to look at you, confused at your words. Did you not understand? "God." He spoke mimicking your stance, sitting crossed legged and leaning into you. "If you're asking me if I created the skies and the seas and if I'm the one the breathed life into you, I'm afraid I am not, nor do I know." You tilted your head at his answer. "All I know is that I opened my eyes and knew my purpose, I bring the twilight sun, but do not control the night sky. I rest as the darkness swallows my hues and allow whoever comes after me to take over while I do so." He continued to speak. "The seas have a will of their own, but they are drawn to the mood, and they dance, sometimes I watch when I can and the moon is in a rush." The way he described the worlds and creation made you feel light, he spoke of it as if it were magic and delight, and in its way it was and you knew it was, you just never before thought of it that way. "You're beautiful." You spoke out automatically, watching his wavy hair move with the light breeze. His head spun in your direction, shocked at your words, he had never been called beautiful before, you pursed your lips embarrassed at your lack of control over your tongue, but then again, the light tint of his cheeks was worth it. "You are quite something aren't you?" You chuckled at his embarrassment, only to blush furiously as you heard your stomach complain. It had been a few hours since you last ate something, and even if time seemed to stop for some reason, your very human body still reacted. He quivered an eyebrow, eyes shooting to your stomach as you covered it with your hands. He got up, extending his hand to you and you took it as he guided you back into the woods. As you made your way to wherever he was leading you, you decided to fill the silence you were used to. "So, none of the women that you choose to keep you company ever called you beautiful before?" You teased with a smirk on your lips. He turned to you, walking backward as he tilted his head. "They were all rendered speechless with my beauty, some things don't need to be said." He smirked, cockishly at you and you scoffed at him. "You sure are humble." You sarcastically replied. "There are just some things that are undeniably true." He turned once again stopping at a small clearing with some bushes and small trees. "Well, I certainly regret telling you you are beautiful." You crossed your arms as he let go of your hand, walking to one of the bushes and hovering his hand over it. In a matter of seconds the bushes and small trees bloomed with berries and grapes, painting the once only green clearing in blues, purples, and pinks. You marveled as he slowly turned to you with the same cocky smirk from before. "Oh, congratulations, your highness, you control nature, good for you." You walked towards him as he picked a bunch of grapes and offered them to you. You took them as he chuckled. "My power usually impresses others." He spoke as he plopped a blueberry inside his mouth, you examined the fruits in your hands not commenting on his remark. "But not you, how come?" He chewed on the berry. You looked at him, shrugging as you usually did. "Maybe I'm just not that easily impressed." You brought a grape to your lips, biting on the end and gently sucking on its juice, his chewing grew slow, his eyes falling to your lips and his sparkling eyes grew slightly dark. "Maybe I just have to try harder, then." His voice was lower, eyes looking up into yours and you could feel it right there, the sudden pull of attraction. His beauty, his inviting aura, his lips, everything in him made you scream 'touch me' in a way you had never felt with another man before. You swallowed, watching as he brought another blueberry into his mouth. You cleared your throat at the tension that had settled with the silence, looking at the grapes in your hand as your mind flew to a story you loved. "I'm not going to be stuck here like Persephone did when she ate the seeds, right?" You questioned and his silence had you looking at him. He had a confused look in his eyes. "You don't know the story?" You asked and he shook his head, eating the berries in front of him. You opened your mouth in disbelief as you started to tell him the story you loved. He listened to every single word carefully, just as intrigued and hooked as you had been the first time you had read it and after you were done you ended up telling him about the other stories you loved and he listened to all of them in silence, sometimes asking a question here and there and the wonder in his eyes only grew bigger and bigger as you spoke. Soon, you found yourself lying in the grass in the clearing, looking up at the sky as you laughed at a story you loved. He laughed along with you and as the laughed died down, you both grew silent, looking at the orange mixing with the blue and purple of the twilight sky. The silence wasn't uncomfortable and for a few minutes, you felt as if you could stay there forever in his company, telling him the numerous stories you had read before and you knew his interest wasn't fake, you could feel it. "Jungkook..." You broke the comfortable silence and he hummed, eyes fluttering as you spoke his name. "What happens to the other women that decide to stay?" You asked and his eyes shot open, looking up at his sky in silence. After a few moments when he didn't answer, you turned your head to him, waiting. Right there, you could see it again, the sadness in his eyes. You swallowed, for the first time ever since you had followed him feeling uneasy, unsteady with the silence. "Jungkook." You called again and he turned to you, taking in your features as if he was making sure he could remember them as if it were the last time. He sighed, fluttering his eyes once more before he pushed himself up and walked towards a tree just a few feet away. You got up, resting on your hands as you watched him, his palm coming in contact with the trunk, his eyes closing as he breathed in deeply. He shivered in his place and finally opened his eyes, turning to you. His eyes were filled with tears and you got up walking to him slowly, stopping just in front of him, his eyes never leaving yours. You looked at his palm on the tree and he swallowed, adam’s apple bopping. "After a while... They wither. Humans aren't meant to be here for long, and they soon become one with the earth." He looked at his palm. Taking yours blindly with his free hand he placed it upon the trunk, closing his eyes again and furrowing his brows. Then you felt it, you felt it like it was the air you were breathing. The tree was alive, breathing, it pulsed as if it had a heartbeat if vibrated as if it had a voice. It was overwhelming and peaceful at the same time, too much, too much that you pulled away, taking a few steps back, grunting as you opened your tear-filled eyes to look at his sad ones. "I don't make them stay, I give them a choice." He spoke in a shaky voice. "But even when I tell them they should leave, they're already part of the earth, flowers blooming in their hair, roots planting on their skin. It's already too late." "Jungkook." You speak out in a breath and his eyes grow scared, turning in your direction and shaking his head. "I don't make them stay, I don't, I promise you I give them a choice." He spoke out in desperation as the though of you fearing him again suddenly feels too much to bear. You, on the other hand, weren't scared, you were sad. Sad for him, sad for them. He was lonely, he was utterly lonely and unlike you, he didn't find comfort in his solitude and that pained you so much, because this kind creature didn't deserve to be alone. You closed the gap between you both, jumping in his arms and hugging him tightly. His eyes bulged and he was still for a few seconds, not sure of what to do before he relaxed and circled his arms around your body, holding you just as tight. You both slowly dropped to the floor, knees hitting the green grass as you were left in silence once more and in that silence, for some reason... In the eyes that so desperately feared you'd leave... You felt loved. Utterly and truly loved. As you both slowly parted, he kept you close, looking at your sad eyes as he lifted one hand to brush away the hair that had fallen on your face. His touch was like a delicate petal, afraid he could break you, afraid he could ruin you and your eyes fluttered, lips parting at the contact. "May I kiss you?" His voice came out low, and you opened your eyes, his tempting ones looking back at you once more with the same adventures wonder from before, you nodded slowly at him. He leaned in, pressing his pink lips against yours, brushing them so good and delicious against your own in a slow battle. But you felt like it wasn't enough like the simple press of his lips would never be enough and you pushed into him, parting yours as he parted his, tongues meeting and dancing along with one another as you deepened the kiss. His taste on your tongue was sweet and yet fresh, all too inviting as he moved, pushing you back until your body rested between the flowers and grass. The twilight sky slowly turning into dark blues and purples as the orange slowly dissipated. Rested on one hand beside your head his body pressed into yours pulling a whimper from your throat as you parted the kiss. Kiss hungry lips slowly traveled down your bare neck, painting it in the same blues and purples he painted the sky. And you lavished in it, allowing him to take what he wanted as his fingers trailed up the inside of your dress to press into your skin, igniting a flame within you. As the night slowly came, your clothes left your body, his wandering lips worshipping your humanity with each kiss to your breasts before he sucked one sensitive nub into his mouth, making you arch into him. He opened his eyes, looking up at you from his spot, your eyes meeting and you saw galaxies in them along with the sexual lewdness of his mouth around your nipple. "Jungkook." You whimpered his name, a silent plea for more. You wanted more, you needed more. And he could never deny you. His free hand roamed down your body and in between your legs, fingers skilfully rubbing at your center and gathering your sweet honey to rub against where it burned the most, making you moan into the coming night sky. You parted your legs further, allowing him more access to do with you as he pleased, to explore you as he wanted. And when they breached you, you arched your back off the ground moaning out his name in sinful pleasure. His mouth roamed down your body like roots in the soil, finding it's proper place between your legs to savor you how he truly wanted. And you allowed him to pull gasps and whimpers and moans from you with each passing second he sucked your sensitive nub into his mouth. Your hand roamed down to his hair, gripping and pulling at his locks and he hissed in delicious pain, making the hairs on your body stand, you tried to push him away as the coil in your core threatened to snap, but he remained put, working his magic on your body as he did on nature. And you came, hard and violently, shaking and trembling on the green night grass as the stars witnessed you come undone. He pulled away from your heat, crawling up your body to press his wet honey lips against yours and you kissed him, you savored yourself on his lips and tongue until you both were breathless, until you could feel the press of his hardness against your center and you pulled away from his mouth, looking up at him. "Make love to me." You whispered against his lips, leaning in to kiss them. He breathed out, weakened by you. Weakened by whatever you truly were, because it felt impossible that you were only human, you were nature, you were living and wild, like the white blooming flower that felt like a mystery miracle. His eyes roamed your face for one last confirmation and when you pressed your lips to his once more, the animal inside him growled. Freeing himself of his clothes, he kicked his pants to the darkness your eyes roaming his perfectly build body and burning hot for him on every inch. His erection was thick and girthy, leaking from the tip as he gripped it in his strong hands. You could see the hunger in his eyes like a wild animal, and when he pushed inside of you, he growled, grunted, groaned deep in his throat as you whined, high pitched, bouncing on the trees. He rested his forehead against yours, intertwining your fingers and slowly moving into you as he looked into your eyes, as he let you watch the galaxies in them bounce with fire, creating supernovas with each hard thrust into you. His lips were sensually parted, delivering groans and low throaty moans as he fucked you with the vigor of a starved man, and you bucked with each hit of his hips against yours, feeling him deep into your core, hitting you where no one had hit you before. "Fuck." He cursed out, the only filthy thing to ever leave his lips the whole day and with a hard twitch inside of you, you knew he was close to his own becoming. And you moved beneath him, pulling him in, pushing him towards the edge like the moon pushed and pulled the ocean. And when his brows furrowed in agonizing pleasure and a breath was caught in your throat, he grunted out. "Cum for me."  And once more you did, shaking and trembling under him as you gripped his length like a vice around a trunk, making him groan out and tense. His high came accompanied with the bloom of a thousand flowers around you, the trees releasing neon luminescent pollens that floated around you both as he filled you with his seed, again and again, until he stopped and rested his forehead on your shoulder. Breathing in harshly as your chest heaved up and down, he pulled away from your shoulder to look at you, the bluish hue of the pollen illuminating your skin as the moon gave you a source of light. "You're beautiful." He whispered, leaning into your lips, kissing them softly, tenderly. "So are you." You whispered back, finally noticing what he made, the magic he created with each emotion, reaction, will. He was utterly beautiful, and you were utterly in love. After you both settled next to each other, your dress lazily placed on your body and his shirt hanging open, you rested your head on his chest, looking up at the night sky. "Is this love?" You asked, voice hoarse and quiet. He breathed in. "It is for me. But I wouldn't know." He answered, not looking at you. "So you've never been in love?" You closed your eyes, burying your nose into his neck, smelling the numerous flowery scents he emitted. "Not until now." He admitted and your heart fluttered in your chest. "I love them all, but I love them as I love the lake and the grass and the flowers." He spoke softly, "That's why when they wither, it hurts me. But it's a different kind of love, you... You're not like the trees or the flowers or the grass, you're like the river... Like the sun hitting the lake and the warmth on my skin." He finally turns to look at you. "I never kissed them before, I never made love to them before. You, you I love as a woman." You felt a thousand stars burning in your chest and you leaned in to kiss him, showing him you felt the same as you knew he would understand. After a while, you both grew silent again, the sky pitch dark and the stars sparkling above. Twilight was officially over. It was time for him to give you a choice, and you had already made up your mind. "I want to stay." You spoke in the quiet that had installed. He turned to look at you and hummed, not hearing you properly. "I said I want to stay." You looked up at him and he pulled away, leaning up on his hands. "What are you saying?" His painful eyes looked back at you as the luminescent pollen slowly died down. You frowned as you watched, getting up and leaning on your hands. "I'm saying I want to stay with you, I want to be with you, you said you give them a choice, I'm choosing to stay." You spoke as if it were obvious, but he shook his head, getting up and you followed suit, not understanding his reaction. "How could you say that?" He turned to face you, pain scattered all over his features. "What do you mean? Jungkook, I want to be with you, why are you upset?" You asked not understanding, and his eyes filled with tears once more. "You can’t stay." He said and something gripped deep into your chest, pain. "Why not?" You argued. "Because I said so." He argued back, infuriated. You opened your mouth in outrage, in hurt. "Why do they get a choice and I don't? Why do they get to stay with you and I don't?" Your eyes filled with tears. "Because I'm not giving you a choice, I won't allow you to wither before your time." He grabbed you by your hand and pulled you into the dark woods, leading you back to where you had first met him. You tried to fight against his hold, tried to pull back, but he was nature, and nothing could go against it. When you both reached the spot he let go. "Jungkook, please." You begged, tears streaming down your eyes. He looked at you in pain, in fear, in longing before it's time. "I can't let you stay." He spoke out weakly. "I never met the wind before and I think you are it, and you can’t trap the wind inside a jar and watch it still because the wind doesn't still." He closed the gap between you both, cupping your tear-stained cheeks into his palm. "You have to understand, Y/N, I can't let you stay, it'll hurt too much, too much to bear." and his own eyes filled with tears once more and even if you wanted to argue, even if you wanted to scream and fight and beg him, you couldn't. The pain in his eyes that gathered with each soul that withered was too much for him, if that happened to you, he wouldn't want to live further. You nodded, sob ripping out your throat as you fell with him to the floor. "I'm sorry." He apologized as he cried along with you. "You have to go back, you have to go back now." He stuttered out and you looked up at him, shaking your head. "I don't want to forget, please don't make me forget, Jungkook, please, please." You begged and he shook his own, looking down at the ground and picking up the flower that you had dropped at the beginning. "I won't make you forget, not you." He spoke softly and you crashed into his lips, kissing him passionately, eyes screwed shut as you savored him one last time before it was time to say goodbye. But there had never been a goodbye. When you opened your eyes the woods were dark and cold and lonely. The trees felt alive, yet hidden in the shadows. And you sobbed as you rested your head on the soil, crying out the pain of the lack of his company, of the lack of his warm touch and soft smile. You cried out in pain of a love that could not bloom no matter how real it was because it was never meant to be love in the first place, not like the one he helped you feel, not like the one he felt for you. When your frail body was too tired of shaking and crying into the night you sat up, looking around and hugging your body, you looked down at the edge of your knees, your eyes glinting as you noticed the flower placed neatly before you. You picked it up, looking behind you and noticing a trail of them, leading you out of the woods. And you followed them, heart breaking and stars dying in your chest. He didn't make you forget, but the memory was also painful. As you walked into town the people all gathered worried if you would return or not, and when you did, they questioned you but all you gave them was silence and your empty eyes. A silence you were no longer comfortable with. And as the days went by and you looked out into the woods you longed for him, more and more. The flower had long died when you finally felt comfortable in your solitude. But you would soon noticed that it would be replaced with a fresh new one, every time it dried out. Because twilight can also fall in love. And he fell in love with you.