Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Jungkook wakes up early the next morning. He is greeted by the lovely smell of rain outside pattering his home, the soft breeze that had trees rustling around them, and right inside his arms; his beautiful omega. The sight of Jimin brings an instantaneous smile upon Jungkook’s face, lips tugging up as if there was nothing to worry about in the world, as if all was good and well. Within those few moments of drunk-dazedness at the sight of his mate, he feels a certain feeling bloom within his chest. Jungkook finds serenity in watching Jimin’s cheek squish into his side, his gentle puffs of breath, and the soft rumble of a snore escaping his plump lips. The sight dawns a lovely memory in his mind, they’d kissed. His sweetheart had given him a gift, something he’d cherish forever. Jimin had willingly initiated an act so intimate, an act Jungkook hadn’t been expecting at least not for another year. 

With a dumb smile, the alpha reaches up to ghost his fingers over his own chapped lips, reminiscing the feeling of the pretty pillow-soft lips of his omega against them. He remembers how Jimin would sigh against him, how he’d clutch at his tunic with fervor. Jimin was plain insatiable. How they’d spent hours tangled against each other, sharing languid kisses, the slap of their lips the only sound in the silence of their living room. With the stars above their head, the Moon Goddess gazed lovingly at the two souls that grew even closer together, wolves intertwined. Last night, Jimin gave a new piece of himself to Jungkook, a piece that the alpha now kept in the confines of his own heart, a piece he promises not to share with anyone else. 

He knew Jimin had trust issues, more so now after the conflict with Sang-hoon. Jungkook doesn’t know the depth of Jimin’s cracks and wounds, maybe he’ll never know, but Sang-hoon’s words gave him enough of an idea. You should see him in his heat. He remembers the voice of the alpha spitting right into his ear, heartless and vile. The stench reeking off him was just as disgusting as his attitude, he smelled of alcohol, arousal, and mud. Jungkook hated alphas like him. Alphas that took advantage of omegas, alphas that thought so highly of themselves. It feels like a punch in the gut when he thinks of the damage he’d done to Sang-hoon, he should’ve done worse. The words he’d said about his omega, his mate, has his blood boiling in his veins. It awakes something feral in him, something unforgiving and unkind. He hates the thought of someone else’s hands on Jimin’s pretty porcelain skin, hates it even more that it was an alpha that didn’t know how to value him. 

But Jimin was so brave and so perfect in Jungkook’s eyes. The mere fact Jimin had stepped out of his comfort zone to give the alpha something as important as a kiss for the means of comforting him had flowers blooming in his chest. With a faint idea of Jimin’s past, he knew anything remotely sexual and physical probably scared the omega. He knew how much Jimin would space out, saw how he would often fall into a pit of self-loathing and hatred towards himself. Jungkook can’t imagine the courage it took Jimin for him to be able to do what he did. But it made the feeling so much more amplified for their wolves. It has his chest swelling in pride at the thought that Jimin wanted something so intimate with him, Jimin wanted him. 

Jungkook has had a total of three past romantic affiliations all with wolves from neighboring packs, but none of them felt the way it did when he was with Jimin. The mere thought of his omega had a feeling creeping up his spine, magnitudes stronger than anything he’s ever had with any of his past relationships. The feeling is odd, just brewing like a cup of tea in his stomach, making his insides warm. It brings him a sense of peace, a sense of being grounded. The feeling was unlike anything he’s ever experienced before. There’s something swimming in his heart, a feeling past his wolf’s instinct to mate the omega, a feeling that comes even without anything happening. It was constant, like a permanent blanket draped around him to shelter him from the cold of winter. 

It’s what he feels when he’s apart from Jimin, it’s what he feels when they’re together. In every waking moment of his day, his senses are clouded with the thought of the omega waiting for him back at home. Every aspect of Jungkook’s life that used to center around just his duties as Pack Head, now had Jimin as well. In everything he did he wanted Jimin to be proud of him. From writing treaties, to fixing his bed in the morning, he does it all with the wonder of whether his actions would make his omega happy. The once black and white life he used to live was now brought to life and vibrant in color, all because of Jimin.

Though Jimin may not be his first, Jungkook wanted him to be his last. He wants to end and start every day with Jimin, he wants to introduce Jimin to the pack, he wants to be able to run freely in the forest with the omega in their wolf forms. He knows what this feeling is called, but a part of him holds him back from acknowledging it for what it is; love. In its purest and rawest form, Jimin was the wolf incarnation of the definition of love. 

A word he used to reserve for his parents only, was now opened to an entirely new being in his world that was Jimin. He feels scared, that maybe the strong feeling toward the other would backfire. Or maybe he couldn’t be enough for Jimin, maybe he’d fuck things up and chase Jimin away. But at the same time, his heart is tender at the thought of being in love, of finally finding the feeling he’s lost for years, the feeling he’s yearned for. He remembers the words his mother had told him when he was younger. 

“And that’s how your dear appa courted me.” Jeon Minhwa, Jungkook’s mother, ends her story with a blush on her cheeks that never seems to leave every time they talk about his father in hushed whispers. 

Tonight, Jungkook had crept into his mother’s room because his father had gone on a trip to the neighboring lands for the week, so he decided he’d keep her some company. That’s how they ended up in a position that had 9-year-old, unpresented pup Jeon Jungkook, asking his mother how it felt like to be in love. 

He’s heard this story a million times over and over again, and Jungkook just listens each time because he knows it makes his mom happy (also because he likes how she brushes his hear while she talks). His mom’s faint but sweetened scent is enough to tell him that yes, it did make her extremely happy to talk about her mate. 

Jungkook idolized his parents a lot. He was their number one fan (he proclaimed so in front of the entire pack before). He liked seeing how in love they were, how they cherished each other deeply. An elder once said that love never lasts that long, that at some point things run cold and they’d just stay together for the sake of it. But Jungkook didn’t see it in his parents at all.

If anything, their love seemed to bloom into something more beautiful with the many winters that passed. He’d always see his dad making eyes at his mom every time they passed by the pup fields where she liked to passtime. He’d always catch his appa trying to show off by bringing back the largest catch during hunting season and offering it to his mom. His appa, Jeon Junyeon, was quite obvious. Anyone could tell by his exaggerated puffed out chest and strong pheromones that he felt strongly towards the other omega. His mom wasn’t much better honestly. She’d constantly make side remarks that only fueled his appa’s ego. Saying things like “Wow, your muscles are getting bigger aren’t they?” or even sometimes “Aigoo! My dear Junyeong is so strong isn’t he?” She’d yell through town. Her playful and shameless energy never failed to have giggles leaving Jungkook’s stomach. She was downright obscene sometimes, making kissy-faces at his appa, winking at him when he’d chop wood for their pack bonfire. It’s pretty obvious the two were very much in love, even 40 moons after marriage.

“So that’s how you found out you loved appa?” Jungkook’s doe eyes were twinkling up at his mom from where he laid beside her, head in her lap. She hums for a moment, hand idly rubbing at his scalp. 

Then she chuckles softly, “I don’t think I ever found out, truthfully.” She pauses. It’s like Jungkook could feel the sheer love radiating off of his mom. “I think it was just something that was there. Your appa is hard not to love.” She jokes.

“There wasn’t a moment where suddenly everything clicked. It was just slow and gradual, until I hadn’t realized I’d already been in love with him for the longest time.” She smiles softly at him. “Is my Jungkookie in love already? So soon!” His mom exclaims.

It has him blushing from the tip of his toes all the way up to his hair strands. For 9-year-old Jungkook, it had been quite embarrassing to hear such an accusation from his own mother. “No!” He yells indignantly, making his mother double over in laughter. He pouts, crossing his arms over his chest. Choosing to be petulant, he sits up and away from his mom who bellows in laughter, just to prove a point. 

Wiping the remaining tears of joy from her eyes, she recovers and finds that her son has scooted to the far edge of the couch, avoiding her gaze. She chuckles fondly, picking the boy up by his underarms and placing him on her lap. Minhwa’s soft fingertips graze across Jungkook’s cheeks as she admires his features. Ever since he was a baby, from the moment she first held him, she knew he’d grow to look exactly like his appa. His eyelashes were hers though as well as the plethora of moles across his face. But his doe eyes, big nose, and strong eyebrows were undoubtedly Junyeon’s. 

“You look just like your appa.” She muses, placing a soft kiss on his cheek. Jungkook has always been a weak man, he melts at the affection. His tantrum has suddenly subsided and his eyes widened, “Do you think I’ll present as an alpha, like appa did?”

Minhwa chuckles at the very pup-like question, “Do you want to be an alpha?” It was no secret in the family that Jungkook really wanted to present as an alpha. He had always said that he wanted to be as strong and fearless as his father. Minhwa knows it would crush Jungkook if he presented as an omega, she knows that even if Jungkook thought of alphas and omegas as equal, it had always been in his heart to be an alpha. 

Jungkook ponders over it despite already knowing he wanted to be an alpha. It felt like a trick question though, he didn’t want to insult his mom by saying he didn’t want to be an omega. 

“I want to be an alpha because they’re strong and can fight.” He nods to himself softly, dark bangs falling across his face, “But… I want to lead with the heart of an omega, and with the mind of a beta.” Jungkook looks up to his mother for approval, checking if his answer was correct.

Her face breaks into a wide smile at the words, peppering soft kisses across her son’s soft skin, “My dear Jungkookie, you will be a great leader. An even better mate when the time comes. I can’t wait to see you get mated.” She scents him across his cheeks.

Jungkook preens at the words, always seeking validation and compliments from his parents. “I will be a good alpha to my future mate!” He boasts with utmost pride, “I’ll be to my mate what appa is to you, and what you are to appa.” 

His mother laughs at that, loud and beautiful. It was music to little Jungkook’s ears. “Ah, how’d I make a son so lovely.”

Looking back at the memory, Jungkook turns to Jimin who snuggles into his embrace. The boy is cocooned in a blanket, arm thrown haphazardly across the alpha’s torso. He basks in the feeling in his chest once again, warm and tender. 

All his life, Jungkook has expected love to be a booming and phenomenal sensation. The feeling of falling and crashing into love was often described with the wildest things in their pack. People said it felt like the thrill of catching the largest bison in the forest, they even said it felt like the giddiness brought by the first snow. So Jungkook had always waited for that grand moment in his life. He’d come across wolves whom he became physically and sexually attracted to, wolves whom he’d stayed with for a while until eventually leaving. There was a temporary satisfaction that came with the relationships he’d had, something that took his mind off of the feeling of being insecure. But over time, the worries of not being enough would come back to haunt him. Hence, all became empty relationships he used to fill the void in his chest left by his parents when they passed.

The void had slowly cracked deeper through the years. Jungkook has always been happy watching his packmates mate amongst each other, bond, and have pups. But there has always been a part of him deep down that shattered to pieces every single time he’d see Namjoon and Jin scenting each other, Taehyung and Yoongi playing with Minsoo, or anyone sharing an intimacy he couldn’t have for that matter. He wanted a family, a mate and pups to care for and nurture. 

It also didn’t help that from deeper cracks in his heart stemmed insecurities about whether he was good enough or not. For years he's doubted if he was a good alpha, if he could ever be a good mate. From failed relationships came the feeling of inadequacy, the feeling of never amounting to what his father was as a mate and as an alpha. So he excelled in other areas, being the Head Alpha. He put every piece of himself into nurturing his pack, growing it to its full potential. He wanted what was best for them, and a part of him seeked the validation he never got due to being unmated.

Wolves have primal instincts integrated into themselves. The need to mate, bond, and breed is a primary part of their wellbeing. It’s basic wolf knowledge that the elders would teach in the village pre-schools. So his packmates could only imagine how the storm inside his head was faring. With all honesty, he wasn’t doing the best before Jimin came along. He was a mess of insecurities, failed hopes and dreams of having a family, and the fear of not being the man his father was. He’s spent countless full moons alone, which got even lonelier when Namjoon and his friends got mated. The festivals he once sat at, laughing with his peers, became an individual endeavor he had to sit out until it felt appropriate for him to sneak back into his cabin. 

Lonely was the word to describe who Jungkook was in the past. A wolf with many friends and packmates who adored him, yet he was lonely. 

But now, with Jimin in his arms, he can’t pinpoint the exact time when the loneliness began to fade. When the loneliness turned into shared smiles, knowing glances, and soft words exchanged between him and the omega. He can’t remember when the dreams of a family he’d long given up on came alive again, he can’t remember when he began to feel excited waking up in the morning just at the thought of the omega. He can’t for the life of him remember when he started seeing Jimin as more than a new member of his pack. 

I don’t think I ever found out, truthfully.

I think it was just something that was there. Your appa is hard not to love.

He reflects on his mother’s words. Jungkook thinks he could say the same about Jimin. The omega was truly hard not to love. With all his bruises and imperfections, he was the only thing worth looking at in Jungkook’s busy world. Where the deep and dark void used to be in his heart has now become a place held by Jimin. He thinks that maybe he’s rushing into things by saying he’s in love with Jimin so soon, but he doesn’t think there’s a better word to describe how he feels for the ball of love that lay in his arms. He tries and tries to find a word to express the emotions swimming in his chest, contentment, happiness, and love. Jungkook is in love. 

Jungkook is in love with Jimin, through all his cracks, all his mistakes, Jungkook is in love with every piece of him. He doesn’t care about his past, doesn’t care about the time it will take to get Jimin to trust him, it doesn’t matter. Because Jungkook has decided to be deaf to all things around him except the song of Jimin’s voice, he would be blind to everything except the omega. 

Jungkook was no longer alone, and that was enough. Suddenly, he was enough. 

He smiles when he realizes his parents are probably laughing at his cheeziness from wherever they were in the sky, but he thinks it’s just appropriate. His mother had told him many stories of love, and even taught him some pickup lines to use on omegas (which he found out weren’t even pickup lines, just lame jokes his mother used to humiliate him).

Jungkook sighs at the realization, he’s in love. So stupidly in love with Jimin and everything that came with him. He thinks of the future ahead of them. He has so many questions. Would they have pups? Would they look just like mini versions of Jimin? Would Jimin lead the pack alongside him? Would Jimin love him?

Jungkook doesn’t doubt his judgement about Jimin being a good Head Omega. He saw it in his eyes that reflected the deep compassion in his heart, his little omega was so kind, selfless, and warm, a leader the pack needed. He imagines Jimin walking around the mainland, all healed up and healthy making new friends. He imagines Jimin pregnant, stomach beautifully swollen with a product of their bond. He imagines what Jimin would look like carrying his mating mark. Jungkook is terribly excited.

“Mmh, you smell happy.” A voice takes Jungkook out of his little scenario-making moment. Jimin presses into his side even more, inhaling his deep musky scent that intensified over night. Jungkook chuckles, wrapping his arm tighter around the other.

Jimin was a different kind of craving in the morning with his puffy eyes, nose twitching, and face a little more swollen than usual. And the alpha can’t forget his pretty red lips that Jungkook had dreamt about the night before, Jimin was truly a different breed.

The omega’s eyes flutter to life, peering up at Jungkook from behind his fringe in a bashful manner. With the air of clarity around him, Jimin realizes what they’d done the night before, the kisses they’d exchanged. He blushes, scent sweetening at the realization. Sure, Jimin had done it on impulse after seeing Jungkook being so open with him, but he doesn’t regret it one bit. He thanks the Moon Goddess for giving him the courage he needed. But somehow, as he peers at the alpha shyly, all of the bravery in his chest has dissipated and he’s left unsure and fumbling. Could he still kiss Jungkook? Or was it a one time thing?

Sensing omega’s inner turmoil just by his scent, Jungkook dips down and gives in to his alpha’s desires. Their lips slot perfectly against each other’s, Jimin was the perfect mold of lips, like they were made for kissing by Jungkook only. Every little detail on the omega was crafted with delicate hands by the Goddess, Jungkook was sure of it. From his lashes, to the faint freckles across his cheeks, to small nails on his fingers. Everything made Jimin so beautiful, it put shame to any other omega he’s dared to touch. 

Jimin squeaks at the sudden kiss, eyes blown wide as he takes a while to process it. It’s funny how shy he’s being when he was the one who initiated it the night before. Jungkook chuckles against his lips, the sound vibrating across Jimin’s body. The omega finally relaxes at that, arms coming to circle around Jungkook’s neck. They peck a couple of times when they part, Jungkook reluctant to leave the nook of Jimin’s pretty pink lips.

The two share a knowing glance, Jungkook’s hands smooth up and down Jimin’s sides in a comforting manner. “It’s good to know you don’t regret it. I don’t.” He hums appreciatively, diving in to steal another kiss from the omega, taking him by surprise again. Jimin whines, a blush running down his face. “You’re quite spontaneous, you know?” He says begrudgingly at the alpha.

Jungkook snickers, dipping down to nose at Jimin’s scent gland. It should be embarrassing how easily Jimin submits, head tilting toward the sky to bare his neck for the alpha. But it doesn’t, it feels right in every way possible. It feels so good to have Jungkook close to him, to have the alpha within an arm’s reach, where only he could see Jungkook this way.

“Take it as my apology for unloading all of my baggage on you last night.” Jungkook says it with a light chuckle, but Jimin can see right through him. He could see the insecurity laced in his voice, remnants of guilt swimming in his eyes. He could see how Jungkook was playing it off with a laugh, trying to mask his insecurity with defenses. “You’re burdened enough trying to recover. I should’ve been stronger for us.” There’s regret in his voice, something weak and sad. Jimin and his omega hates it so much, hates how their alpha was so caught up worrying about him. 

He caresses the alpha’s cheeks, looking into his dark eyes. Jimin personally wasn’t good with words, he’d only learned to broaden his vocabulary by sneaking into the old alpha pup nursery in his previous pack. But he had to try with Jungkook, he had to try anything and everything to reassure his alpha, to alleviate the heavy weight on his heart. 

Jimin sighs, “I want you to confide in me, Jungkook. I want you to tell me what’s troubling you, what makes you sad, I want you to cry to me when you need to.” He offers the alpha a small smile that makes Jungkook’s heart soar with absolute fondness. “I want to take care of you the way you take care of me, so let me. Unload all of your baggage on me and we will carry it together. Right?”

Jungkook nuzzles into his palm, but makes no move to speak. Jimin sighs, knowing the alpha is still having an internal battle with himself, still beating himself up over it. “You cannot control my past, Jungkook.” He says sternly, trying to gain as much courage to say what he wants to say. The way his voice is slightly shaky gives away how nervous he was feeling. “But you can help build my future. So stop beating yourself up over something you couldn’t do anything about.”

Jungkook isn’t convinced. “I’m safe now, aren’t I? I’m here now, with you.” Jimin places a soft kiss on Jungkook’s nose, lingering there to pepper a few softer ones on the alpha’s cheeks. On instinct, Jungkook lets his lashes flutter closed. He knows the hardest pill to swallow will be the fact that he wanted to be there earlier for Jimin. He knows he probably won’t stop beating himself over it. But Jimin was right, he was here, safe, and in his arms, breathing. He pushes all his worries to the back of his head, swallowing when he feels Jimin place a final sloppy kiss on his forehead with a loud smooch.

Jimin giggles, moving to lean on the back of the couch to admire his alpha. Jungkook nuzzles into his stomach, scenting him there, something awfully domestic that has Jimin thinking of pups. What would Jungkook look like as a father? How would he treat Jimin when he’s pregnant? Would he massage his belly with soothing oils? Would he place kisses all over his skin? 

His scent sweetens at the thought, biting back a smile as he treads a hand through the alpha’s hair. “You’re a good alpha, Jungkook. Thank you for crying to me, thank you for letting me see you.” Jimin kisses the crown of his hair. Jungkook blushes, moving to peer at Jimin from where he hid in his belly. “I’m not afraid of crying, you know. You flatter me too much.” He complains, but Jimin grins at the knowledge that Jungkook was eating up all his compliments, shooting straight to his ego.

They spend a few more moments in silence. Jungkook occasionally crawls up to place a kiss on Jimin’s lips, place a kiss along his jaw or on his nose, or scent him across his neck. And Jimin would take everything Jungkook gave him, the soft caress on his side, the gentle nuzzling into his shoulder. The alpha was so endearing. So sweet and kind, Jimin was melting. 

When the rain is reduced to a silent patter, Jungkook sighs heavily. “I have to tend to my duties today.” He grumbles, leg lifting to kick at the cushion in a petulant manner. Jimin’s head falls back in laughter, the sound echoing in all the corners of his humble home. Jungkook looks at him adoringly, chin propped on his palm, just ogling at the beauty that was Jimin. He sighs again, less troubled and more fond, “You’re so pretty.” The alpha pokes at Jimin’s side. He relishes in the yelp that comes from Jimin, flinching away from his hand with a shriek of “It tickles!”

Jungkook ignores his protests and goes back in to lazily kiss his mate. Sue Jungkook for kissing Jimin, it’s not his fault Jimin was so irresistible. “And what does my pretty boy want for breakfast?” He says against the other’s lips, Jimin hums. He’s so satisfied he almost misses the alpha’s question, his omega was too busy cozying up to the alpha. He feels himself flush at the pet name, all too happy with how things were turning out.

“Anything you have.” It’s a half-assed answer, but Jimin couldn’t think of anything better when he was trying to return the sweet but firm little kisses given to him by Jungkook, as well as trying to comprehend how he was Jungkook’s pretty boy. 

Jungkook presses a final kiss on his lips, moving to stand up. He stretches out, joints popping back into place. “I’ll start up a fire and heat up some of the food you made last night since we were too caught up kissing.” Jimin feels embarrassed at the words, as if the alpha had uttered their little secret to the entire world. He delivers a little kick to the alpha’s thigh which does nothing to deter the smirk on his face. Oh how Jimin just wants to wipe it off. “That’s an adorable attempt.” Jungkook teases on, moving toward the kitchen, leaving Jimin a blushing mess on the couch. 

The omega pouts when the alpha is out of sight, moving to sit up which proves to be harder than it sounded. Jimin loved the couch, it was so soft and comfy, but he’s sure it isn’t made for sitting or sleeping for long periods of time. The ache in his back told him enough. Added to that was his slowly healing back injury that doesn’t spare him any favors when he manages to sit upright. He prods his soft fingers against the tender spot where his injury was along his lower back, the muscle right next to his spine. Aera had said that he was lucky enough his spinal cord didn’t get affected. But at the moment he isn’t feeling so lucky, he whines when he presses on the skin, feeling the soreness intensify at the slightest touch. 

Jungkook’s head pops out to peer at him, alerted by the noise. His eyes narrow where Jimin is pressing on his back, then back up at his face to look for signs of discomfort. “Everything okay?” He rubs his wet palms on his pants and approaches the omega. Jimin blushes at the attentiveness of his mate, his omega is just screaming in glee within him about how lucky he was to have met someone as perfect as Jungkook. 

Jimin nods with a pout, “Just hurts.” Rubbing around the area along his back. Jungkook tuts, coming to kneel by his legs. “Would you want to see Aera? Get a checkup maybe?” A warm hand is placed on his knee, drawing small circles on his skin. Jimin shakes his head at that, a soft smile on his lips. Jungkook sighs, knowing he can’t convince the omega anyway. Jimin was just tough like that. “Alright, want to watch me make something?” 

The alpha snorts at the way Jimin’s eyes light up, clearly interested in the idea. He nods eagerly, moving to stand, but Jungkook can’t have that, can he? How dare he ever make Jimin walk on his own feet when he’s more than capable of carrying him everywhere he pleases? It’s also particularly because Jungkook wants to show off his strength, but that’s besides the point isn’t it? He hooks his hand underneath Jimin’s knees, a hand instinctively wrapping around the omega’s back for support. 

“What are you-” Jimin’s sentence is cut short when Jungkook hoists him up and places him right along his waist, hands firm around him. The omega’s mind short circuits, all coherent thoughts escaping him when he feels how close they were, the only barrier in between being the furs of their clothes. Jungkook watches in amusement as all the gears in the omega’s head stop turning at once, jaw falling slack with shock. He is unable to suppress a snort and the way his lips curl up into a cocky smirk. At the look, Jimin blushes deeply, moving to press his face into the alpha’s neck to hide.

“You’re foul , you know that?” Jimin grunts. But the way his arms and legs wrap around the alpha like a wall vine completely contradict his words. He smells the pure satisfaction coming from the alpha’s scent in waves, and he’s too far gone to care about how arrogant Jungkook was being. 

“You seem to enjoy it.” He muses, turning his head to press a kiss on Jimin’s cheek, wet and sloppy. The omega whines, rubbing the alpha’s saliva off on his shoulder. Soon his hind meets the stone counter of Jungkook’s kitchen, but the hold of the alpha doesn’t waver. Jungkook places his hands on either side of the omega’s legs, and Jimin admires how tall the alpha looks. Despite having leverage from being on the counter, Jungkook still had a few more inches above him. He thinks his omega is a bit too pleased with it. 

“Today’s menu is some beautiful elk, made by my beautiful mate.” Jungkook says, unwrapping the leaves that covered the elk Jimin and Seokjin had prepared the night before. He blushes at the use of my beautiful mate in describing him. Jimin has never been the subject of such a fond title, he loves it so much. His cheeks are red and his smile is wide when he corrects Jungkook. 

“Seokjin made it. And I’m not your mate yet.” He emphasizes, arms crossing over his chest. Jungkook rolls his eyes at the attitude, finding that Jimin had a lot more courage and wit in the quiet hours of the morning, only for the alpha to see. He likes this side of Jimin that is slowly starting to unravel itself. 

Jungkook sighs playfully, “Fine. Today’s menu is some beautiful elk, made by my beautiful future mate’s friend.” He corrects, stealing a kiss from Jimin’s lips when he passes him. The omega kisses back eagerly, chasing after him even as he’d walked away. Jimin swings his legs back and forth on the counter, eyes imploring Jungkook’s back as he works on the opposite side.

In their comfortable silence, Jimin has the time to fully admire everything the alpha had to offer. He was so kind, so selfless, and brave. Jungkook was a good leader, humble and considerate to every member of his pack, even the new ones like Jimin and his previous pack omegas. Jungkook was gentle in all that he did, extremely smart, and level-headed. His personality just made him all the more beautiful than he already was. He was so sweet to Jimin, so loving to someone who had been a complete stranger just a month before. 

And it doesn’t hurt that Jungkook is drop-dead gorgeous. His eyes trail admiringly at his mate’s broad figure across him. Jungkook was so big . So alpha . He’s tall, he has strong bulging arms, a chest carved by the Goddess herself, dark patterns of tattoos running all the way up his arms disappearing where Jimin can’t see them anymore, and his face. God , his face. He had such strong features. His brows, his thin lips, his big nose, his doe eyes all had an air of gentleness to them. But he knew that to outsiders, Jungkook looked like the complete opposite. He was intimidating, and had almost a menacing demeanor to anyone who didn’t know him. 

Jimin can’t help but bite his lip when he realizes that he is the only one that gets to see Jungkook like this, he was the only one to see Jungkook vulnerable, to see Jungkook in the morning, he was the one who got to hold the alpha throughout the night. He’s the one who is able to kiss his lips. Warmth bubbles within him, he finally has something all to himself. 

He’d grown up with no possessions. He was taught that nothing was his, and it would always belong to the alphas. Jimin has never had his own bed, his own bathroom, or even his own toys to play with growing up. Everything his hands had ever touched was of someone else’s. So he can’t fight the feeling of not wanting to share Jungkook with anyone else, because finally, finally , someone has chosen him. Finally, he has something--someone to call his.

Jimin sneakily trails his toes up Jungkook’s back, effectively stilling the alpha from where he was fixing up their individual servings of breakfast. He peers at the omega over his shoulder, meeting the cheeky look on Jimin’s face. The blush on his cheeks seemed permanent everytime the alpha was around. He raises a questioning brow, dropping the pieces of elk on the counter to fully turn to the omega.

“Yes?” He leans back. God had different plans for Jimin that morning because he just can’t get enough of drinking Jungkook up like wine. His eyes seem to have aimed directly at how Jungkook’s pectorals looked a lot firmer on his chest as he leaned from where he stood. He just can’t take his eyes away, he just can’t believe someone as perfect as Jungkook could be his. 

Jungkook’s brows raise impossibly higher in surprise when he sees that Jimin had his attention trained elsewhere. His smirk returns, but Jungkook stays careful when he notices how Jimin’s scent has sweetened. He doesn’t want to insinuate anything Jimin isn’t ready for. “You want the bathroom?” His voice is laced with concern and seriousness that it finally catches Jimin’s attention.

It takes him a few more moments to comprehend whatever Jungkook had said, but he shakes his head the moment it processes in his head. “No. Sorry, just want you closer.” Jimin opens his arms once again, welcoming the heat of his alpha’s body. He liked this kind of intimacy more, nothing directly sexual, just them sharing a moment together with their bodies close. Just gentle touches and soft kisses. “Okay.” Jungkook says reluctantly, but closes the distance between them, because how was he supposed to say no to the omega when he looked so pretty perched on his counter?

Jimin pulls him in for a kiss, a permanent smile etched on his lips. He feels so content in Jungkook’s arms, so happy and safe with his alpha. They smile bashfully into their kisses, the alpha’s calloused hands running up and down his back gently. Jimin loves him so much. 

“So… about your question this morning,” Jimin trails as they part, pressing a final kiss on his lips. Jungkook hums and moves to snatch a piece of elk, bringing it up to the omega’s lips that part easily to accept the food. Jimin may not notice the courting gesture, but Jungkook’s alpha certainly does, jumping up and down at being able to provide for his mate. But the naive look stays on Jimin’s face as he continues, “I do think I’d like to see Seokjin-hyung today. Visit Aera at the infirmary too. Maybe get my back checked out and a few other things.” Jimin says softly, grabbing a piece of elk for himself. 

Jungkook doesn’t like the idea one bit. Of course he trusted Seokjin, he was their pack’s Head Healer, their best Healer. And on top of that, he’s also Jungkook’s closest friend. But his alpha objects at the idea of letting Jimin out of his house so early to meet Aera, letting his beauty run free for the whole pack to feast their eyes on. Because so far, the only people that have ever seen Jimin have been him, Aera, and Seokjin (briefly Hoseok, Namjoon, and their warriors when he first arrived). Bottomline is that Jungkook has never been good at sharing. 

He frowns at the words, “But…” The alpha doesn’t want to fuck up though, doesn’t want to sound controlling and manipulative, so he chooses his next words carefully. “I don’t want to share you yet.” He says truthfully, shoulders sagging at the mere idea of it.

Jimin’s face is full of confusion, not really following what Jungkook was saying. The alpha sighs, pink coloring the tips of his ears as he realizes he has to spell it out for the omega. “I’m no good at sharing. And I don’t want to share you with anyone else just yet, even if I know I will eventually.” He grumbles, “But I just--I want to keep you to myself even if it’s just for the next few days. I promise I’ll show you off to all of the pack whenever you want to.”

A wide smile breaks through Jimin’s resolve, Jungkook was just too cute for his own good. His big doe eyes are pleading, and it gives Jimin a peek into a more childlike side of his alpha. It makes him all warm and fuzzy inside. He sighs fondly, arms wrapping around the other’s broad shoulders, “Ahh, my alpha. What am I going to do with you?” He clicks his tongue, “Being greedy with me already? You’re so cute.” He pinches at his alpha’s cheeks, the alpha’s eyes going wide at the accusation.

“Hey!”

Jimin shushes him with a kiss, “Alright. I can stay home for a while longer. I don’t mind.” He shrugs, “But.” He schemes. “If Seokjin-hyung says I’m well enough to go out…” The omega trails, suddenly feeling shy about his request. He knows the alpha would allow him anything he wanted, he knows Jungkook wants him. But he can’t stop the voices that threaten to hold him back from all the opportunities that await him.

He won’t want you when he finds out about your past.

You’re wasting his time.

You’re good for nothing but to breed. 

No one in this pack will love you.

Jungkook watches as the omega goes quiet. He rubs a rough hand on his side, almost like waking him up from a dream. Jimin blinks a couple of times, trying to refocus his attention back to the alpha and not the daunting voices at the back of his head. “Sweetheart?” Jungkook frowns, hand cupping at his omega’s cheek. “You with me?” 

Jimin nuzzles into the touch, “Yeah. Sorry. My courage is running out.” He tries to laugh it off, but it’s a futile attempt under the prying eyes of his mate. He knows Jungkook sees right through him. The alpha sighs, not an exasperated nor an impatient one, but one of understanding. “It’s okay. Do you still wanna continue? We could just cuddle on the couch until I have to go to the Head Quarters.” Jungkook seals the offer with a kiss.

But Jimin shakes his head in disagreement. As tempting as cuddling with his alpha was, he knew he’d have to face it at some point, he couldn’t stay stagnant forever. He couldn’t be held back forever. He needed to try.

“As I was saying.” He gulps, “If Seokjin-hyung permits, I’d like to get to know your pack.” Jimin lets go of the breath he doesn’t realize he was holding in. He hadn’t realized his heart had stopped beating for a while, insecurities coming back to the surface.

But Jungkook silences them all, his knight in shining armor, truly. He places a kiss on his lips, “Our pack.” He corrects against the omega’s lips. Jimin squeaks at the sudden action, unable to catch up with Jungkook’s impulsive affection. But the alpha parts as quickly as he initiated it, cupping Jimin’s cheeks with a wide smile. “When you put it like that it makes me want to let everyone know you’re my mate right now. Their future leader.” 

Jimin shoves him, hiding behind his fringe with a blush. But Jungkook isn’t finished, “I’d love for you to get to know the pack. They’re going to love you so much Jimin, and I know you’ll love them even more.” The way his name rolls off of Jungkook’s tongue has something blooming in his chest. Happiness, Jungkook made him incredibly happy.

Never in his life has Jimin thought he’d be treated with such kindness and affection, never did he think anyone could be as gentle and patient to him as Jungkook was.

They’re going to love you. 

“You really think so?” He bit his lip, fingers fumbling with the alpha’s furs. But Jungkook is so confident with his words, pride oozing through the way he stood with his chest puffed out. For the first time in years, Jimin isn’t the last option, Jimin isn’t going to be thrown out. 

“I know so. And I know you will love all of them just as much as I do.” Like a vow, Jungkook attaches their lips once again. Jimin no longer finds it in himself to worry or overthink, all worries thrown out the window in the shelter of his mate’s lips.

They spend the next hour of the morning like that, not even moving from the kitchen back to the couch. Jimin stays perched on the counter as they slip pieces of elk between their kisses, giggling at the taste of food on each other’s lips. Jungkook is extremely proud of his omega, he was clearly thriving under all his attention. He was positively glowing, a coat of a halo surrounding him making him look ethereal, untouchable. He cards a hand through his mate’s hair as they part for the millionth time, lazy smiles forever on their faces. 

“I need to get ready, Namjoon will be knocking here soon.” He sighs, wanting to just stay in Jimin’s embrace for the rest of the day. But he is reminded of his duties as alpha when his eyes meet his mate’s understanding ones. “Go.” He shoves him away with a proud smile, lips slightly swollen from their previous activities. “You have wolves to serve, alpha.” Jimin winks, lip caught between his teeth.

Jungkook thinks he evaporates then and there. The name of alpha sounded so beautiful in the tone of his omega’s gentle voice, he thinks it’s a crime that Jimin ever calls him Jungkook again. 

Jimin giggles at the stunned look on his face, like a fish out of water with how the alpha is gaping. “I said go.” He whines when Jungkook steals another kiss. But Jungkook is persistent, and Jimin doesn’t fight it anyway. He just lets Jungkook do as he pleases. He feels himself get moved from the cold counter of their kitchen to the warmth of the sofa, Jungkook retreating from their embrace. 

“I’ll take a shower. You could go to your room or explore around if you want.” The alpha says with a final kiss to his mouth. Jungkook pushes back with heavy footsteps leading down the hall until Jimin hears a slosh of water go off in the next minute. The omega sighs, body limp in the comfort of the furs on his pillows. But he can’t stay there and laze around forever (as much as he wanted to), he needed to do something to rid him of his impending boredom. The mere thought of Jungkook leaving for the day has his omega wailing in devastation.

So he gets up on unsteady feet, going into one of the other bathrooms to clean his face and scrub down as much as he could without hurting his back. Jungkook has a single bar of what looks like herb soap, he isn’t quite sure, but it smells divine on his skin. He hates having to rid Jungkook’s scent, but he needs to clean up. It’s a lot less wounding as he expected, his scent resurfaces after hours of smelling just like his alpha, and it’s a lot clearer when he steps out of the oak door. He still hears the slosh of the alpha’s water from down the hall so he waddles his way into the study across Jungkook’s.

He peeks in, a stupid action because he knows no one would be in there, but he somehow still felt like an intruder in a foreign place. So by muscle memory, he was just testing the waters of his new home. When he’s met with utter silence, he pushes past the door frame and into the room Jungkook had fondly presented him the day before. The study he had dedicated to his mate. 

Jimin didn’t have enough time to fully appreciate each intricate detail put into the room, so he takes his sweet time running his fingertips over everything he could reach. The oak was so beautifully carved, images and patterns traced with utmost precision. Jimin wonders if Jungkook had made it too, if the lapha had taken time drawing them with a mate in mind, something within him tells him he did. His heart soars when he ventures through each corner of the room. There was a soft fur mat in one, pillows beside it as well, it was clearly a small nesting area. 

He feels something tender ache within him. Jimin has been putting off nesting for a while simply because he’s never done it himself. The alphas prohibited it in his old pack, no matter if he was in heat or even when he was a pup, he wasn’t granted that privilege. But now, given an array of gentle and well-made fabrics, Jimin doesn’t know why he’s holding back. He doesn’t know why he can’t bring it in himself to nest the way he’s always dreamed of nesting. He so badly wants to, but he doesn’t know how, he doesn’t know how to make one all pretty, he doesn’t know how to scent it. He doesn’t want to disappoint his alpha by making an ugly and messy nest.

Jimin pouts, turning away from the nesting corner to focus his attention elsewhere. But he is unable to spend much longer in the study when his alpha’s scent wafts into the room. Just like a moth to a flame, Jimin gravitates toward it. Slowly but surely, he pads toward where his alpha’s bedroom door was wide open. Jungkook was nowhere in sight, but Jimin identified where the culprit of the scent was coming from; the pile of clothes Jungkook had placed on the bed in his haste to shower. 

Jimin stopped himself from diving into the alpha’s bed uninvited. It was improper and selfish of him. He wouldn’t know if Jungkook would like that or if it would be okay with the alpha for Jimin to intrude in a space that was his. His omega is scratching at his chest to go and do it, throw away all his inhibitions and drink in his alpha’s peppermint scent. Jimin has difficulty fighting against his wolf, so he pouts and intertwines his hands together, a gesture he’s always used to try and ground himself as he was growing up. Jimin stood patiently outside Jungkook’s door, waiting for the alpha to come out of the bathroom.

When he does emerge only a few moments later, Jimin marvels at the sight of his alpha. Clad in just a pair of raven colored trousers that lay low on his hips, stood Jungkook who was looking at him with questioning eyes. The omega pays him no mind with the way his eyes rake down from his dripping hair, past his jaw, and onto his exposed chest, the look on Jimin’s face tells Jungkook enough. He barks out a laugh at Jimin’s shameless staring, clearly pleased to be under the appreciative gaze of his omega. 

“Why are you just standing there?” Jungkook says with a laugh, stalking over to where an obedient little Jimin stood right outside his door with his hands together. He half-expected Jimin to take the hint since he left the door open; that what was his is now Jimin’s as well. Although the other is unable to form a coordinated response, Jimin lets himself fall into the alpha’s side, flush against Jungkook’s warm skin.

He purrs at the closeness, eyes drifting shut for a second before peering up at his mate. It’s a struggle to keep his eyes off of Jungkook’s pecs, Jimin thinks he’s the strongest soldier for being able to control himself. The alpha’s eyes are loving and fond when he stares back at him, dipping down to press a chaste kiss on his forehead. Only then does Jimin remember that he has a question to answer. 

“Didn’t know if I could enter.” He hums, head falling on the alpha’s broad chest. Jungkook wraps an arm around him, planting a firmer kiss on his cheek at that. 

Wanting to get his message across, “What’s mine is yours. You can go here anytime, even when I’m out.” He says with finality, pulling Jimin into his room and toward his bed. 

The omega just lets himself be taken where the alpha wanted, feeling his wolf cry out in victory when the alpha’s raw and calming scent wraps him up in a warm hug. He finds himself sitting on the bed of furs much softer than the ones on the couch. Jungkook sits in front of him with a small smile, taking his hand in his to litter kisses all across his knuckles.

Jimin blushes, turning to his side to hide the flush he felt run all over his body. Jungkook didn’t know the effect he had on him, truly. The alpha chuckles at the reaction, “Seriously though, what’s mine is yours. Come in anytime you please, why do you think I leave the door open?”

The omega just looks up at him, face illuminated by the rays of sunlight that streamed in from the windows. He just nods dumbly, eyes darting back and forth between his alpha’s eyes then to his chest. It was a sight Jimin ate up, he can’t believe that he has this all to himself. He feasts his attention where the once mysterious tattoos trailed up his arms, were revealed to reach his chest. The tribal print across his arm stood stark and demanding of attention against the alpha’s honey skin, running up his strong muscles all the way to his left pec. Jimin just gawks at it, biting his lip when he notices Jungkook is just letting him. He will probably feel shy about it later, but for now he allows his eyes to explore each and every part of his alpha exposed to him. 

“What do they mean?” He whispers, almost afraid if he was an octave higher their moment would be ruined. Jimin’s fingertips pad carefully across the alpha’s inked arm, from his wrist all the way up to his elbows. There are goosebumps that rise in their wake, the hairs at Jungkook’s nape standing at the feeling of his mate’s touch. The alpha blinks a few times, senses hyperactive with the thought of his omega’s hands on him. Jimin was so pretty, curious eyes looking at his body with an air of bashfulness. He coos at the sight of the omega’s pretty and full cheeks, feeling proud at himself for being able to provide so well. His omega was glowing, body visibly recuperating much better, regaining the strength lost over the years. Jimin also gained a little weight, and Jungkook can’t fight the happiness that spurs within him. Jimin was thriving with him, Jungkook had the most perfect omega.

He is brought back to life when Jimin points a finger at an area of his skin along his arm. Jungkook hums for a second, unsure which textile Jimin was referring to. But his index finger lingered by his wrist where his very first tattoo was placed. He’d got it at the age of 18. “This one,” His voice is deep as he brings Jimin hand to where a litter of hangul characters lay. Jimin looks up at him expectantly. “They stand for Jeon Minhwa, my mother. And Jeon Junyeon, my father. I got them when I was eighteen, shortly after their death.”

Jimin grazes the area with gentle fingers, bringing his wrist up to his face. Jungkook just watches in awe. In the light of his room, Jimin’s beauty intensified all around him. His blonde hair was glowing, his skin looked livelier, and his cheeks had the perpetual presence of a blush on it. The omega peers up at him past his fringe, placing a kiss on his wrist above the names. “I’m sure they’re proud of you.” He whispers against the skin, rubbing his cheek against it to lightly scent his alpha. Jungkook releases a breath of relief when he feels Jimin’s scent run through his veins, it’s something oddly calming to feel their scents mingling with each other, wolves howling in satisfaction.

Jungkook’s lips turn up slightly, extending his arm further as if to gesture that Jimin could venture on to ask about his other tattoos. The omega contemplates over the array of dark patterns, then pointing at the one that started at his bicep. A symbol of a wolf with the moon over it, it was Jungkook’s wolf form. The alpha smiles fondly at the memory, looking down at his own arm. “This is my wolf, and this was the moon on the day I presented.” He gestures to the intricate lines of deep seeping ink on his skin. Jimin’s mouth curves into an ‘o’ with wonder. “I’m a gray wolf, just like my parents.”

“It’s beautiful.” He whispers, caressing the area. “Did it hurt?” The omega asks curiously.

Jungkook hummed, “It hurt so bad.” He confessed, eliciting a soft giggle from the omega at his truthfulness. “I got it after I became Head Alpha. It took a month for our pack artist to ink me up.” He shivers when he remembers how the black needle was hammered into his skin by a bamboo stick. He’d hidden his fear and pain by biting into his tunic, trying to suppress the scream that wanted to be let out at the sheer pain of the experience. But now he looks back at the memory with fondness, warmth pooling at his belly because it had been his first sacrifice for the pack, the first step to being the leader they needed. 

There’s a faint smile on Jimin’s lips as he watches Jungkook reminisce his memories, he wished he could’ve been there to see him blossom into the alpha he was now. “And this?” He presses a finger into the long patterns of textile and tribal prints that decorated the entirety of his upper shoulder, all the way to one side of his pectoral. 

Jungkook looks, “Ah, this is our pack textiles. It’s from our ancestors, my great great grandfather made it our trademark. Every festival you’d see the members of our pack wearing clothing with patterns much similar to this. I felt like getting it to show how devoted I am to leading them, how happy I am that I am their leader.” He says with a proud smile.

Jimin looks up at him with twinkling eyes, like Jungkook hung the moon and stars in the night sky himself. “So tough, are you sure you didn’t cry?” He teases playfully. Jungkook rolls his eyes, but there’s a wide smile threatening to break through his resolve.

“I almost did.” He snorts, making Jimin fall back on the bed with laughter. Jungkook whines, moving to lay beside his mate. “You’re mean.” He grunts to the omega. Jimin’s hair is splayed all across the dark furs of his bed, a happy smile revealing his single crooked tooth, and his body is wracking over in giggles. Jungkook thinks he is so beautiful like this, always so breathtaking in his eyes. His eyes are turned into crescents with happiness and he has a small hand covering his lips to reduce the volume of his sounds, Jungkook is so so in love.

Unable to suppress the feeling any longer, he closes the unbecoming distance between them, pressing a kiss against his mate’s giggling lips. It shuts him up effectively, Jungkook smirks in victory when Jimin squeals in surprise. But he is eager to return the kiss, hands finding his nape to hold him close. Jungkook sighs as they part, leaning over his mate with his head resting on his hand. “You’re so pretty.” He sighs in appreciation. 

Jimin blushes, averting his gaze to his alpha’s lonely hand. He takes it in his, bringing it up to place a kiss on it, looking up at Jungkook as he did so. “What’s your next tattoo going to be?” He asks, drawing a repetitive circle on the alpha’s chest. Jungkook looks down at where their hands were intertwined. “Well, there’s this one custom among all packs for the Head Alpha to take that I’ve yet to do.” 

The omega looks at him patiently. Jungkook presses a kiss on Jimin’s ring finger. “When I get mated, if you take me as your mate and you accept me,” He says with adoring eyes, “I will have your initials wrapped around my ring finger. All Head Alphas have it.” 

Jimin brings him close at the words, pressing a kiss on his forehead. It reminds Jungkook of how his mom used to put him to bed, singing him a soft tune accompanied by the light of a burning candle, then she’d place a quiet kiss on his forehead before she leaves the room. He’d always stayed up for it, pretending to sleep, just so he could wait for his mother’s kiss by his hairline. He doesn’t realize how much he’s missed it until now.

“I’m excited, then. I’ll hold you to it, alpha.” He says with a lilt in his tone, something mischievous that Jungkook takes as a challenge. His alpha puffs within him, ready to fight anyone and everyone that would pose a threat to his courting. But Jimin soothes him with a kiss, laughing slightly at the determined look that overcame his features. “You think too highly of me alpha. It’ll only be you.” The omega comforts him, but Jungkook never turns down a fight. 

He stands up from his bed, straightening his back. “Okay. I’ll prove it to you then, that I’m worthy to be your alpha.” Jimin bites his lip at the possessive tone. He was so gone for Jungkook, he knew that if the alpha wanted to mate him then and there he’d give in, but his willingness to prove himself only added to his appeal. It had Jimin’s omega feeling giddy inside him at the thought of how persistent Jungkook was, how much Jungkook wanted him as well. It wasn’t one-sided. 

Jungkook turns on his heel to grab one of his fur coats, opting to leave his used one on the bed knowing Jimin would probably want to keep it for the rest of the day. But Jimin lets out a mild gasp as he turns his back, it has the alpha looking over his shoulder in caution. 

He’s eyeing his back with wide and concerned eyes, Jungkook frowns, not knowing where the source of distress was. But Jimin makes a beeline toward him, omega alert and displeased. 

“Oh my god, Jungkook .” His brows are knit together as he stood behind the alpha, a small hand placed by his spine. “What the hell happened to you? Why do you have so many bruises?” There’s a tremble in Jimin’s voice that makes him turn around completely, ignoring Jimin’s protests to let him see his injuries.

He remembers how he’d tripped over a twig the night before, completely forgetting the damage when his mind was clouded with remorse and grief when he’d gotten a peek into his omega’s past. Jungkook can’t help the way his scent sours immediately, making Jimin even more distressed than he already was. The alpha feels a pair of hands cup his cheeks with tenderness, it forces him to look into the omega’s watery eyes.

It sends another wave of sadness through him, he feels bad for concerning Jimin so much. The omega whimpers to him, pleading. “What happened, Jungkook?” The tremble in his lip tells the alpha that Jimin was just putting up a tough front for him, that he was trying to keep his emotions at bay. Jungkook wasn’t much better.

He nuzzles into the touch, “Went on a run last night, there was a fight with…” Jungkook trails, letting out a heavy exhale. “One of the Lee Alphas.” The alpha makes it a point to detach from his emotions momentarily to check on Jimin, to see how he was receiving the information. There’s a clear falter in his demeanor, his hands become clammy and there’s an air of nervousness in his scent. He was afraid, Jimin smelled so afraid. 

But he gulps, “A-and? How-How does that have anything to do with you?” His voice is shaky and unstable, Jungkook knows he’s just trying to keep himself together. “Did they hurt you?” He sounds heartbroken.

He brings the omega into his chest, enveloping him in an attempt to calm him down. “Someone said some things about you.” Jungkook needs to take a deep breath because rage is once again pooling within his veins. He should’ve just killed Sang-hoon. 

“It made me so mad, Jimin. I was so angry. He was challenging me, spitting in my face. So I let my alpha loose and I just--,” He closes his eyes, “I should’ve killed him.” His gaze is dark as he tightens his hold on the omega.

Jimin is now trembling in his arms. But he pushes against Jungkook’s chest, fear emanating off of him so strongly it makes Jungkook regret ever mentioning it. “What did he say?” 

Jungkook’s eyes narrowed in on the omega who was looking at him with urgency. He knew he couldn’t keep it a secret from Jimin, but he didn’t expect to let it be known to the omega so soon. When Jungkook doesn’t answer, Jimin’s scent spikes, the room smelling like smoke and wilted flowers. It makes his alpha crazy, thrashing within him to protect his omega and comfort him. 

“Was it Sang-hoon?” His voice is quivering, the omega’s small hands are clasped on his arms.

Just two seconds of silence told Jimin enough. His legs give up on him, all strength leaving his body as fat tears finally slip past his eyes. His omega was so wounded, so hurt at the knowledge that yes, Sang-hoon would still manage to ruin his life one way or another. He feels his heart hollow out at the knowledge, wounds anew. 

He’s going to hate you, Jungkook doesn’t like you anymore, You’re impure, You’re good for nothing, You’re filthy, You’re tainted . The voices become a little too much for the little omega.

But before he could fall into the floor in a puddle of grief, Jungkook is picking him up and carrying him toward the bed. Jimin looked so broken and defeated in his arms, looking so defenseless. Jungkook hates it. He hates it so much.

“Jimin, baby.” He whispers, cradling his head as the omega sobbed into his skin. “Jimin please.” The alpha feels his cheeks become damp with tears, feeling helpless the longer the omega stays quiet, save for his cries. “Jimin, talk to me, baby please.” Jungkook whimpers into his blonde hair, peppering kisses along his neck. But it doesn’t help the wailing boy who seems to cry even more.

An image flashes through Jimin’s mind, a spur of the moment memory. It’s too familiar to him.

“Worthless omega! I know I should’ve just killed you in your mother’s womb.” The alpha spat at him mercilessly, delivering a kick to his stomach. “There’s nothing left of you, tainted omega. Useless little Jiminie.”

His eyes widen with a gasp as the image disappears behind his eyelids. “I’ll be good I promise!” Jimin suddenly bursts, frantically gripping Jungkook’s hands in his. “Please! Believe me! I’m not tainted. I didn’t let him--I’m pure! Please, believe me, alpha. I didn’t let him--I would never. I’m a good omega, please! I’ll be a good omega for you!” He exclaims, voice wavering as tears fall down his chin. 

Jungkook’s eyes widened at the outburst, dropping Jimin’s hands to grip his cheeks. The omega almost feels wounded, feels abandoned when his hands are left cold, but the alpha looks at him with commanding eyes, he has no choice but to listen. 

“Jimin.” Jungkook growls, eyes stern on him. Jimin is still sobbing, tears wetting the alpha’s hands as well. He forces himself to be gentle at the sight of his mate’s stature, curling in on himself once again. But Jungkook doesn’t let him, he doesn’t let him give into whatever headspace was telling the omega he wasn’t enough. Jimin is his mate, Jimin is his love, and Jungkook would tell him over and over if that’s what it took. 

“You are my perfect omega. You are my mate. I don’t care about your past, I don’t care about what happened before. I--” Jungkook cuts himself off. 

Say it, coward. Tell him.  

“Jimin, I love you .” He says breathlessly, looking at the prettiest set of gray eyes Jungkook has ever seen himself. “I love you so so much, I love every part of you. Regardless of what you’ve been through, regardless of what you consider your faults. I love every single piece of you, your flaws are beautiful to me Jimin. You are already my perfect omega.” 

Jimin is still crying into his palm, Jungkook feels his own tears fall quietly down his cheeks. He didn’t think he’d be confessing so quickly. But Jimin silences any of his doubts about what he’d just said, because soon enough Jungkook feels a familiar pair of lips on his. He sighs in relief, shoulders relaxing from where they were tensed up. He feels the omega’s tears falling onto his cheeks, he can’t find it in himself to care because Jimin is holding him so tightly, as if he’d loosen up, Jungkook might disappear into thin air. 

When they part, Jimin is the first to speak. “You mean it?” He asks, doubting. Jimin rubs a hand over his cheeks which does little because a fresh set of tears come falling out of his eyes anyway. Jungkook nods, looking up at Jimin who was splayed across his lap. “I meant every word. Please believe me, Jimin. I love you with everything I have. And I love you for everything you are.”

“Nothing you do, nothing that has happened will change that.” Jungkook promises, the words make Jimin cry even more. 

“This isn’t a battle you fight alone, Jimin. I’m here now. You have me now.”

Never in his life has he felt so loved, so cherished and cared for. He’s lived his life being avoided because of Sang-hoon, being told he was tainted ever since the older alpha had taken a liking to him. At the young age of 18, Jimin had felt his world crashing into him when alphas his age began spitting dirty remarks at him. At some point, he too had believed that someday he wouldn’t be able to fight anymore and that he’d be forced to carry Sang-hoon’s pups in his belly. But Jungkook looked at him now with nothing but love in his eyes, without a single trace of uncertainty, malice, or prejudice. Jungkook looked at him like he was perfect.

He takes a deep breath, Jungkook’s words echo in his head. 

This isn’t a battle you fight alone.

“Sang-hoon,” Jimin starts, rubbing his cheeks roughly. Jungkook pries his hands away from his irritated eyes caused by the harsh treatment. In turn, the alpha waits quietly for him to continue, wiping away his stream of tears with his own fingers. 

Jimin musters as much courage as he can to continue. “Sang-hoon is an alpha from my old pack. He’s 40 moons older than me. I’m pretty sure.” Jimin says, sniffling. 

He tries to sound confident, he tries to make it seem like he believes in his mate’s words of comfort. But his voice gives away his doubt. Maybe after he tells Jungkook the whole story, there’d be nothing left for them to save in their relationship, maybe he’d drive the alpha away.

Sensing his apprehension, Jungkook presses a kiss over his swollen eyelid. “Whatever you tell me, it won’t matter. It won’t make me disappointed in you, it won’t change how much I like you. I promised, right?” He says, scenting him all across his cheeks.

Jimin sighs, unable to stop the endless dam that broke him into a mess of sobs. But he manages a nod past his sniffles. “You promise?” He asks for confirmation, needing a little more reassurance than usual.

Jungkook rubs up his lower back, pulling their chests flush against one another. “I promise, Jimin.” 

The omega takes in a shaky breath, closing his eyes because despite the reassurance, he still expects rejection from the alpha. He expects to be thrown out of the place he has grown accustomed to calling home, and he expects a look of disgust. And Jimin can’t bear to see the look of disappointment cross his alpha’s face, his omega is already wounded just at the prospect of it.

He gulps, clearing his throat to continue. “Sang-hoon had taken a liking to me early on. Maybe around the age of 10, even when I was unpresented.” He sucks in a sharp breath at the darkness that overcame Jungkook’s eyes. “He--it was tolerable at first. I thought maybe he treated everyone like that. I was stupid.”

Jungkook rubs his back consistently, showing him that he wasn’t going anywhere. It does nothing to tame the voices that tell Jimin he will never be enough, but he continues.

“When I was 10 moons old, he started off with harmless compliments. He’d often call me pretty, or twirl my blonde hair around his fingers when he’d pass by me. Back then I thought it was normal, I thought maybe he saw me as his son, or something.” Jimin chuckles emptily, feeling like it was his fault. If he weren’t so fucking naive, Sang-hoon wouldn’t have his way with him.

“Then his harmless little actions and remarks became a little--more, when I’d turned 15.” He averts his gaze from Jungkook, feeling shame course into his veins. 

It was all his fault, if he stopped it earlier, if he’d said something, if he’d done something-

He feels strong arms wrap protectively around him, pulling him closer to the alpha’s chest. Jimin whimpers at the action, how could Jungkook ever love him if he were tainted?

“I love you.” The alpha repeats, encouraging him to continue on.

“I was still unpresented, still a pup. The times he’d call me pretty turned into ‘accidental’ touches. Over dinner when I’d eat their leftovers with the other omegas, he’d pass by and grope me, or linger along my back, I could feel him breathing on me.” He gulps, pausing as he feels a few more tears pool along his chin. “Then, when I turned 18, I’d held hope that maybe I could present as an alpha, maybe they were wrong about me being small, maybe I was just a late-bloomer.” 

“But then I presented as an omega.” He sniffles, memories cross his closed eyes of how he was treated in the past, he relives every moment of pain he’s ever felt since he presented. The day he presented was one he never wants to remember, the utter sorrow, the feeling of giving up at the realization that he couldn’t escape his truth, he couldn’t escape the life he didn’t want.

“I went into heat, but I was lucky enough that it landed on the full-moon festival, so all of our alphas were at the neighboring packs for the week to celebrate. Including Sang-hoon.” The omega doesn’t allow himself to blink, knowing very well that the sight of terrified 18-year-old Jimin would come into sight to haunt him.

“I remember thanking the Moon Goddess for that, even if I presented as an omega, she’d saved me by allowing Sang-hoon to be far away, where he couldn’t touch me.” 

Jimin remembers that night oh-so vividly. Like a story he memorized and placed in the darkest corner of his brain.

It started with an itch. Around noon, he felt this odd itch in his veins while he was scrubbing some of the alpha’s tunics alongside the river. He thought it might’ve been an infection or a nasty type of algae that had caught onto his arms, and he dismissed it as so. 

But then when night fell, under the concerned and pitying looks of his packmates, he knew it wasn’t just an itch. He looks at Hyemi, their eldest omega in the communal space they slept in. 

Barely an adult. He was so young. Still a pup.

Jimin has tears in his eyes as he clasps onto her, “Please--Please, it’s not true right. It’s a mistake. I’m--I can’t be.” He gasps in panic, fingers curling around the elder’s clothing. 

He feels the heat trickle up his spine in a wave, making him buckle forward and whimper in pain. But instead of the fiery desire and lust he was expecting, he was overcome by pure fear.

The alphas. Sang-hoon.

They were going to find out. They were going to come home and find him, a newly presented pup, and they’d finally have him. They’d finally taint him.

He cries out in agony, begging Hyemi for an answer, any answer. But the elder just cradles him against her, just lets him cry into her chest.

“I can’t, please. I can’t be.” He sobs, trying to fight against the fire in his chest. “They’re going to--Hyemi they’ll-” Jimin is unable to continue when another wave of heat runs through him with power.

His tears spill past his chin and onto the hardwood floor. “They’re going to kill me please!” Jimin exclaims to his packmates who stood huddled by the door, unwilling to look at him, knowing very well he was a reflection of how they were when they presented.

“Sang-hoon, he’s going to do it, he’s going to do it please. Sang-hoon can’t, right?” He pleads to the idle wolves that stood outside, screaming in anger when no one provides him an answer. 

“He’s going to pregnate me, Hyemi!” He yells. “He’s going to-He’s going to do it. He’s going to find out I’m presented, and I’m done.” Jimin gasps for air. When Hyemi rubs a hand through his greasy hair in response, Jimin feels defeated. There’s no hope for him. This is the life he’s supposed to live, this is what awaits him.

His sobs are reduced to quiet puffs of air against Hyemi who holds him with hidden tears in her eyes. Jimin is helpless. He knows the future that awaits him. He’s an omega. He’s done.

After a while, he speaks up. “He’s going to be my mate, isn’t he?” Jimin croaks out, tears sliding down his cheeks as he lay lifelessly on the ground beside the elder. Hyemi offers no response, no words of sugar-coated reassurance. She knows what it will be like, so she could only hold onto the pup’s hand tighter.

Jimin jolts out of the memory, coming face-to-face with Jungkook who is rubbing against his neck in comfort. 

He turns to the side, embarrassment curling in his guts. Jimin was so weak. 

“Hyemi took care of me back then, she watched over me and brought me tons of water. I honestly can’t remember feeling the desire of my heat, I was more afraid than anything. I was afraid that Sang-hoon would come home early and finally have his way with me, I was afraid that he’d pass me around to the rest of our pack alphas.” Jimin feels Jungkook’s hold around him tighten, it gives him a little comfort and reassurance to keep going.

“Then when they came back, my heat had just ended. My scent was really strong, Sang-hoon was the first to approach me.” Jimin gulps, remembering the exact words the vile alpha had spat at him the moment he came into sight. “He told me he’d impregnate me in my next heat, he told me I’d give him an entire litter of pups.”

Jimin closes his eyes for a moment, reminiscing the words whispered into his ear in mock privacy, though Jimin knew the entire pack had heard it. He feels Jungkook’s palm rest on his cheek, scent souring with the information.

“He made me feel so dirty in my own skin. He made me feel so impure and disgusting, like I wasn’t worthy of anything. Like I didn’t even own my body.” Jungkook feels bile rising up at his throat, his head conjuring images of tiny, newly presented Jimin, standing under the mercy of Sang-hoon. He should’ve killed him.

Jimin lets out a bitter laugh. “If I thought it couldn’t get worse, I was certainly wrong. My presenting was just the beginning of everything. I couldn’t run away from him, I hated myself so much. I hated him so much.” He whimpers.

“I feared my next heat, I knew it was only months away.” Jimin sniffled, feeling nightmares cross his vision, memories that he knew would come back and leach onto him forever. Jungkook rubs his cheek against his, it lets Jimin feel Jungkook’s own tears, it lets Jimin know the alpha was grieving with him. 

“Lee Chuseok took pity on us, however. He set a pack rule that omegas in heat weren’t allowed to be touched.” Jimin says, “So when I went into heat along with a few other pack omegas, we were escorted into one of the private rooms the alphas used to contain those whose cycles were triggered. It was just to make sure that it didn’t send the entire pack into chaos by having all omegas in heat, and trigger alphas’ ruts.”

Jimin exhales, feeling a fresh set of tears brim past his eyelids. “They said--they told me I wasn’t supposed to remember what happens during my heat. They say it’s rare that anyone does.” The omega looks angry, eyes distant. “But why? Why do I remember everything? Why is it always me?” He grits.

“When I was in that room, my heat was already starting. I watched as other omegas took their own corners, and I followed in their suit. No one was there to guide me, to reassure me, I didn’t even have a nest.” He sniffles pathetically.

Jungkook is appalled at the knowledge. An omega without a nest is rare on its own. All omegas had to have one by nature. Their nest was the only place they’d feel safe and calm. Even more upsetting is the fact that Jimin didn’t have one during his heat, during his most vulnerable moment. Jungkook tries to push back his growing anger, and it’s just getting harder the more he hears. But he has to be strong for Jimin. So he pushes a hand into the furs of his blanket to grip it, grinding his teeth together as he tries to put on a calm facade.

Jimin sighs, sounding strained and tired. “Then the door opened on the second day of my heat. I thought everything was going well. Until Head Alpha Lee came in and told us that although the alphas weren’t allowed to touch us, he gave them the privilege of watching us.”

At the words, the alpha pulls Jimin into his neck, seeing the fresh tears that began descending down his cheek. Jungkook doesn’t make any noise, letting himself close his eyes and feel Jimin’s pain with him. 

Jimin remembers how scared he was, how devastated he felt when one by one, alphas began streaming into their heat room, seeing them--him in a time where he’s supposed to feel safe and secluded. He’s never felt more exposed. 

“Then Sang-hoon came in, and he--” Jimin gasps, “He watched me. He relieved himself to the sight of me in my heat, to the sight of me vulnerable and pliant.”

The omega finally hears something from his alpha at that, a whimper. Jungkook was feeling murderous, but above all his anger, he felt remorse come crashing down at him. Jimin was so strong, having to be so at such a young age. He can’t imagine how Jimin had managed to endure his heats under the invasive eyes of uninvited alphas. He doesn’t even feel possessiveness crawl into his system like usual, because instead he is just heartbroken. Jungkook feels shattered to pieces at the knowledge that Jimin has never known or experienced a peaceful heat, that Jimin has never had privacy in the moment he needed it the most.

“I’m so sorry, Jimin.” He croaks out.

He cries in his alpha’s arms feeling disgusted with himself. Jimin hated himself for a long time before he finally accepted his fate, but now it was all coming back. It just felt like an endless loop of self-hate, he doubts he’ll ever be able to escape it.

“That’s always how I’ve spent my heats. Naked under Sang-hoon’s gaze. I was always afraid to go into heat alone without any other omega, because then he’d be alone with me. Then he’d finally have his way with me.” He sniffles.

For a few moments, the room is silent save for Jimin’s sniffles and Jungkook’s quiet tears. This is it, Jimin thinks. This is the moment Jungkook throws him out, this is the moment Jungkook takes back any offer or intentions he had towards mating. This is the moment Jimin goes back to square one. Then,

“I should’ve killed him.” Jungkook’s voice is rough with anger, “I should’ve shred him to pieces until he wasn’t breathing. I should’ve--I should’ve known better.” 

Jimin looks at him, streaks of tears on his cheeks. Jungkook makes no move to hit him, no move to scream at him or scold him, or even tell him to go out. Jungkook doesn’t call him tainted. 

Instead, he pulls the omega away from his neck, “But Jimin.” Jungkook cups his cheeks. “I am so proud of you. You are my strong, perfect omega. You are so brave, you are so tough. You stood your ground under the scrutiny of a much older alpha. You stood for yourself. I am so proud of you, my love.”

“I hate that you had to be brave at such a young age. I hate that I couldn’t be there to protect you. But my love, you are so much stronger than I could ever be. You are not impure, you are not tainted. You’re perfect, Jimin. I wish you could see yourself from my eyes.” Jungkook says with confidence. “I am always going to regret not being able to keep you safe, I am always going to regret not being there. But this doesn’t change the way I see you, this doesn’t change the way I feel about you. I love you Jimin. I love you with every ounce of my being. This changes nothing. Because I will always love you, Jimin. No matter what. From now on, I promise there will never be a battle you fight on your own. It’s you and me now, okay?”

He wipes his omega’s tears, trying to tame his own. Jimin sniffles and looks at him, Jungkook musters up a smile. “You are the most perfect, the most beautiful soul I’ve met on earth. You are so kind, so loving, so selfless. Jimin, you are everything I wish I could be.”

Jimin cries even harder at the words, “Jungkook.” He sniffles, voice rough. “I love you too.”

Jungkook pulls him in, slotting their lips comfortingly against each other. Jungkook would wait a thousand years if it’s what it took to make Jimin believe him. He would say it a million times over until his last breath if it’s what Jimin needed. “I love you so much.” The alpha mumbles against his lips. 

Jimin sighs in relief. Because Jungkook isn’t pushing him away, Jungkook isn’t disgusted. Jungkook is treating him with tender touches, gentle kisses, the alpha is treating him with love. 

When they part, Jungkook wipes the remnants of tears from their cheeks with a small smile. 

“I’m sorry if it’s so sudden. But I don’t think I can stand another second not telling you I love you.” Jungkook says sheepishly. 

But Jimin shakes his head, eyes watering still. “It’s perfect. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for not hating me.” Jimin sniffles, “I’m a difficult person to love, Jungkook.” He laughs, “So thank you.”

Jungkook kisses his cheeks, “You’re so easy to love in my eyes.” He whispers.

Jimin laughs at that, tears still trailing down his cheeks. “I’m sorry I’m always crying.” He wipes it on the sleeves of his tunic. 

Jungkook tuts, “We will cry to each other, remember? We promised?” 

The omega smiles down at his lap, “Yeah. We did.” 

Jungkook knows it’ll take years for Jimin to accept him, he knows Jimin might never feel secure with himself. But he doesn’t care about that, he doesn’t care about everything Jimin thinks is negative about himself, Jungkook doesn’t care about anything but loving his omega. 

“I love you.” Jungkook repeats, smiling at the way it sounded from his voice. It felt so right to be saying it to Jimin. It felt so right despite the circumstances.

“I love you, Jungkook.” The omega returns, resting their foreheads together.

Jungkook sighs in contentment. “Thank you for telling me. I know there’s a lot more to uncover, there’s a lot more left unsaid, but thank you for letting me in on this. I’ll grieve every moment with you, I’ll go through it all again with you. So let me past your walls, okay, my love?” 

Jimin nods, unable to speak any longer. “I’m tired.” He genuinely chuckles. 

Jimin honestly thought he’d feel more burdened after telling Jungkook, maybe he’d feel more lost. But instead, a huge weight is lifted off his chest. He no longer feels tied down. He doesn’t feel like his past is something that binds him from moving on, he doesn’t feel like he’s lost Jungkook just yet. He’s no longer carrying the weight of his past on his own, he carried it with Jungkook now. 

Jungkook nudges his nose, “Rest, Jimin.” He urges, pushing him to lay on his pillows. Jimin lets him, but he doesn’t let go of Jungkook’s hands. He has a slightly panicked look on his face that Jungkook pays full attention to, waiting for him to speak.

The omega shyly clutches at him, “Will you… Do you still have to leave?” He nibbles on his lips, feeling like he was asking for too much. But he can’t stop the way he looks at him with hopeful eyes, Jimin doesn’t feel like being alone after everything he’s said.

Jungkook looks at him softly, reaching a hand to caress his cheek. “No, I can stay if that’s what you want.” He presses a kiss onto the other’s lips. “I can always ask Namjoon-hyung to take over.” Jungkook promises.

The omega nods eagerly, “I’d really like that.” He says quietly, feeling his throat hurt from how much he’s cried already. His lashes cling together in a way that has Jungkook cooing, even while crying Jimin was ethereal in every way possible.

Jungkook leans over him, resting against him as he just looks at Jimin with the kindest eyes the omega has ever seen. “So proud of you.” The alpha whispers, not making any move to kiss him, just looking at him in adoration. Jimin basks in the attention, eyes fluttering shut in fatigue. He registers the final kiss Jungkook presses against his lips before he drifts off to sleep. 

It’s moments after Jimin begins in a soft snore that Jungkook hears a familiar knock from his front door. He bundles the omega in a blanket before leaving the room in a quiet escape, making his way toward his second-in-command who waits patiently outside his home. 

Jungkook knows he has quite an agenda to accomplish for the day, he knows he has a lot of duties to resume and take over once again. He couldn’t stay in his blissful vacation with Jimin for any longer. But his alpha wouldn’t placate at the thought of Jimin alone in his large home, without a nest, especially after what he’d shared with him.

He opens the door and is immediately greeted by Namjoon’s strong cinnamon scent. The alpha smiles at him, parchment tucked into his back pocket. “I take it you’d like to stay in today?” Are his first words. Jungkook sputters in response, not expecting the alpha to know him so well. But Namjoon is quick to shoot him a forgiving look, “It’s okay. You’ve worked hard for this pack, Jungkook. A few days off won’t do any harm.”

Jungkook whines, unbelieving. He knows that his pack needs him and that they're probably worried given the events that transpired the day before. He muddles over the matter, it was always his pack before anyone else, but he had a mate now. And his mate was part of his pack. He doesn’t know what to put first.

Namjoon sighs at the familiar expression of worry on his friend’s face. The moment the alpha had approached the door, he’d caught onto the devastation and anguish in his scent accompanied by the underlying smell of citrus which he knows to be Jimin’s. He pieces two and two together and spares his friend from the unnecessary monologue.

But Jungkook is stubborn, which is old news to Namjoon and the rest of his pack. He knows Jungkook hates taking day-offs, hates not being present for important events, and hates it even more when he feels useless. The entire pack worried over their leader’s health, especially when Jungkook would refuse to leave building sites or when he would stay until the festivals ended, enduring endless yawns and fighting the urge to sleep. Jungkook was difficult to talk out of matters concerning the pack, it was his responsibility after all. But he knows it’s because Jungkook hates feeling like a failure, he absolutely loathes the feeling of potentially disappointing his pack. Namjoon doesn’t know how to convince the other alpha that the pack was very much in love with him as a leader, and that not one member has ever doubted his abilities as a Head.

Namjoon grunts, shoving a rough hand against the alpha’s chest to push him back into his home. “You will stay here, Hoseok and I will take over for the day.” He says to the alpha who just lets himself step backwards, Jungkook grumbles.

“Okay fine.” He concedes upon smelling Jimin’s citrus scent from his bedroom, letting himself be swayed into staying. “Has the Council of Packs received our letter?” Jungkook crosses his arms over his chest.

At the words, Namjoon reaches into his pocket and reveals pieces of neatly folded brown parchment. “Here, I believe they’ve requested a formal meeting at your earliest convenience.”

Jungkook tucks the paper into his hands, looking back to Namjoon to dictate orders for the day. “Check on Taehyung, Yoongi, and Minsoo for me. See to it that they receive the necessary help to recover. I imagine Yoongi isn’t pleased with Sang-hoon still being alive, assure him that I am not either.” 

“See Hoseok and ask for reports from the guards at our boundaries, ask for any updates on the Lee Alphas as well.” Jungkook notes, Namjoon bobbing his head along to the orders. 

“My aim is to have the Lee Alphas dealt with and off our lands before the first snow. We’ll see to it that it is fulfilled to avoid any other damage.” Jungkook notes sternly, “Then check up on Jimin's omega packmates. Let it be known that I’ll visit soon, if not tomorrow.” 

“Tomorrow? Will you be up for it?” Namjoon’s brows furrow in dismay, knowing very well that if he were in Jungkook’s position and it were Jin in Jimin’s place, he wouldn’t leave for an entire month if necessary. But he’s not Jungkook, he’s not hard-headed. 

Jungkook fixes him a glare that leaves no room for argument. “Tomorrow, I’ll be up for work and I’ll see to it that my duties are tended to once again. Thank you for your concern, hyung.”

Namjoon just sighs in agreement. Before he is able to turn to leave, Jungkook speaks up again. “Could you ask Jin-hyung to come over if he’s available. I think Jimin would like to have things checked.” Jungkook says, body already leaning towards the direction of his bedroom where he knows Jimin lies peacefully sleeping. “It would be great that Jimin has another omega to confide in… not just--me. I’m sure there’s a lot he can’t tell me.” 

The other alpha looks at him, back straightening. “Noted, Head Alpha. I’ll be here at sundown to deliver all the information you’ve requested. I’ll also have Jin pass by, I’d assume he’ll be present here by noon if his schedule permits.” 

Jungkook purses his lips, moving to close the door. When Namjoon turns on his heel, he hears Jungkook’s shy and quiet voice utter a soft “Thank you for doing this, hyung. It means a lot.” Promptly followed by the slam of a door and heavy footsteps leading away. Namjoon chuckles, moving toward their HeadQuarters while shaking his head. 

The Head Alpha’s ears are burning when he returns to the safety of his bedroom. He was never really one to show emotion to Namjoon in particular, they had more of a brotherhood relationship that made Jungkook shy to open up to him. Although Namjoon has always been expressive towards him, never afraid to tell him when he’s conflicted, Jungkook struggled with it a lot more. He would easily shy away from conversations that would unnecessarily put him at the center of attention. But in moments like that, the two made sure to express appreciation when necessary. 

Jungkook glances at the bed where Jimin stirs, hearing his sheets ruffle with the movement. A fond smile tickles his lips when a head of blonde hair peeks past the furs, groggy and swollen eyes peering at him. Jungkook shushes the omega when he lets out a strangled whine with a hand reaching out to beckon the alpha forward, clearly not pleased with the distance between them.

“What am I going to do with you?” Jungkook sighs playfully, snuggling beside the omega who accepts him with open arms. He hooks his chin on the crown of Jimin’s head, sighing in contentment when his senses are evaded with sweet citrus. Jimin’s arms wrap tighter around him, clutching at the back of his shirt to keep him close. 

“My omega is so cute.” He coos at the sight of Jimin’s cheek all bunched up against him.

He lets out a quiet little mewl in response, “You’re being too talkative, alpha.” He teases back, hiding a mischievous smile into the alpha’s chest. The action makes Jungkook’s chest rumble with a snicker. “Am I?” He edges on.

The omega detaches from him to raise his head with a glare, eyes puffy and red from all his crying. “Shhh.” He presses a finger to the alpha’s lips, dropping his head back on Jungkook’s chest to inhale his scent even more.

Jungkook grins widely, taking Jimin’s small hand to pepper kisses along the skin. He purrs at the attention, basking into the other’s skin as if Jungkook were a portable bonfire. The omega thinks he could get used to this. Jungkook continues his ministrations, hand resting on Jimin’s hip while he uses the other to scratch at the omega’s scalp. “Mmh, it feels nice.” He sighs in appreciation. 

The alpha stays silent, having some time to reflect on the things Jimin had revealed to him. 

He feels murderous just at the prospect of little Jimin growing up in such an environment, surrounded by a bunch of heartless fools. Jungkook doesn’t even feel his usual possessiveness when he thinks of Sang-hoon being around Jimin in his heat. Instead, a part of him breaks inside at the knowledge that even in the omega’s most vulnerable moment, he wasn’t spared his decency. His heart shatters knowing that Jimin’s only hope for his future was that he’d become an alpha; that too had failed him. It was the final strike to any optimism left in Jimin before he had presented, all his dreams crashing at his feet when he became an omega. Jungkook can’t even begin to express how it makes him feel. He unknowingly lets himself imagine Jimin as a pup, barely finding his way into the world, being deprived of so many opportunities. He imagines how Jimin must’ve felt, being under the watchful eyes of Sang-hoon from such a young age. He imagines how Jimin must’ve felt on the days he’d have to endure his heat, that too being overlooked by Sang-hoon, how it must’ve felt to be so exposed to an alpha that relieved himself to the thought of him.

Jimin thought he was tainted, Jimin feared that Jungkook wouldn’t believe him. The alpha’s arms tighten around the omega that was in a blissful sleep across his chest. Jimin was perfect in every possible way. Whether he believed himself to be tainted or not, Jungkook wouldn’t bat an eye at it. Because Jungkook loves Jimin for who he is, with all his scars. 

The alpha was given a look into what Jimin’s life was like before they moved. He can only imagine what else has gone down within their pack, what else Jimin was leaving out of the picture. 

He presses a firm kiss atop the omega’s head. Never in Jungkook’s life was he put in a position that made him question his morals. In every war he has led, in every fight he has won, Jungkook has always assured that he’d be level-headed until the end. Up until now.

Jungkook can’t even begin to imagine making a level-headed decision when it comes to the Lee Alphas. He was never one for violence, always one for the more peaceful option. But every fiber in his body, every inch of him craved vengeance. He doesn’t think he’d be satisfied with any of the punishments their actions warrant. Not after what Jimin had told him. 

“Jungkook?” The gentle voice snaps him out of his trans. Deep in thought, Jungkook hadn’t realized he’d been emitting strong pheromones out of the anger that had just begun to simmer below his composed exterior. The omega is peering up at him with understanding eyes, his own citrus scent trying to comfort the alpha. 

“Sorry.” Jungkook chokes out, trying to focus on the omega’s scent. Jimin just hums, leaning forward to nudge their noses together in a little comforting action. The alpha sighs, head turning on its own accord to scent Jimin across his cheeks as well. 

He knows that it will be much more difficult to drown out the feeling of guilt and remorse towards Jimin after what he knows now. But he decides he’ll deal with it later. As long as Jimin is in his arms, he can afford pushing his crave for revenge to the back of his head.

Jungkook pulls the omega closer, this time planting a firm kiss on the other’s plush lips. Jimin blushes, pulling away out of surprise. “Stop doing that.” He swats at the alpha’s shoulder, the little action makes Jungkook bark out in laughter. 

“What? Why are you shy all of a sudden?” He scoffs playfully, squeezing the omega’s waist between his hands. Jimin pouts, leaning down to hide his face in the alpha’s neck. Jungkook knows it’s Jimin’s personal hiding spot, a way to avoid meeting his gaze, but he lets the omega do as he pleases. 

When Jimin makes no move to respond, Jungkook nudges him slightly, nosing right by his ear. “That tickles!” Jimin exclaims, trying to wiggle away from the alpha. His back injury doesn’t help him at all, any attempts he makes to move out of Jungkook’s embrace is proven feeble. The alpha just indulges him, repeating the action, eliciting even louder giggles from the omega. 

Jimin’s laugh sounded like a thousand bells ringing in tune with each other, a pretty little song in Jungkook’s ears. It’s a sound he never wants to forget. He pushes Jimin’s limits by poking at his side experimentally, receiving a shocked expression as the omega yelps. “It tickles!” He complains again, words falling on deaf ears because Jungkook moves to poke him even more. 

He doesn’t take mercy on the omega until he’s completely spent out, cheeks a deep shade of red from laughing, warm puffs of breath leaving him in his attempt to recover. “Alright! Alright! You win, alpha!” He coughs out, accompanied by a couple more strings of giggles. 

Jungkook is smiling a little too widely for Jimin’s liking, a bit too pleased with his own doing.  Jungkook was getting real bold with him. The omega whines, moving to get off the alpha’s chest petulantly. But Jungkook doesn’t let him get far. Arms caging around him to keep him rooted in his place. Jimin gives up on his third attempt of trying to escape, grumbling as he is forced to lay back on the broad chest.

Jungkook sees how pleased Jimin is, all his whining and complaining simply a facade to get chased. The alpha was more than happy to comply. “Such an alpha.” Jimin grunts when he sees how cocky Jungkook was looking, clearly happy to have won their little game. 

The alpha just shrugs, not denying the allegations. It serves to make Jimin scrunch his nose so adorably that Jungkook is unable to suppress the need to pinch the omega’s cheeks. “Ouch!” Jimin slaps his hands away when the alpha squeezes his face into his palms. Honestly, it didn’t really hurt, but that’s Jimin’s secret to keep. He just really liked their playful banter.

At the little sound, Jungkook gives in and lets Jimin recover and compose himself. “My pretty omega.” He muses, hand rubbing at Jimin’s side. The omega blushes, averting his gaze from where he was sitting on Jungkook’s abdomen, peering at the alpha who lay on the bed with a smug expression. 

He rolls his eyes. “Do that again and you won’t have an omega anymore.” Jimin sticks his tongue out, and it’s a real struggle for Jungkook not to pull the omega down to his chest and kiss him silly,

But before he’s able to do so, obnoxious knocking resonates from the hallway. Jungkook frowns, wanting more alone time with Jimin than what he was given.

The omega looks at him questioningly. “Ah, that’s Jin-hyung. I thought you’d feel more comfortable confiding with another omega about--stuff.” He trails awkwardly, “Also because it might be good to just have yourself checked here? In the comfort of our home and all?” Jungkook suddenly doubts his idea of having Seokjin come over. 

“I expected him later this noon though, I don’t know why he’s here so early.” He rambles on. “If you aren't up for it, I can send him away?” Jungkook fumbles for words, not knowing how to fill the deafening silence of the room. 

But suddenly his arms are full of warmth when Jimin envelopes him in a bone crushing hug. “Hey.” Jungkook’s frown deepens, not knowing what to make of the action, but he wraps his arms around the omega quickly. 

“Thank you.” Jimin mumbles into the skin of his neck. Jungkook feels relief wash over him at the knowledge that he made the right decision, and that he didn’t mess things up. “You’re always thinking of me. It feels good. So thank you.” 

Jungkook’s arms tighten around him, pressing a kiss into his cheek. 

When he’s about to reply, there’s even louder knocking from his living room, followed by a shameless, “Jungkook-ah! Jimin-ah! Your favorite omega is here!” In a sing-song voice.

The alpha scowls, pulling Jimin into his side to stomp to the living room. He knew he was being a child, but hearing the omega’s poorly suppressed giggles made his behavior worth it.

When he pulls the door open, he is met by the tall omega who looks a little too pleased at the sight of his close proximity to Jimin, eyeing how they were snuggled up against each other.

Jimin blushes at the intrusive gaze, averting his eyes. “Can you be any louder?” Jungkook grunts to the omega.

Seokjin doesn’t seem fazed, “I can.” He deadpans back.

Jungkook doesn’t get the chance to reply because suddenly, Seokjin’s not alone. A figure emerges shyly from behind his friend’s broad shoulders. It’s not one--but two tilted heads gaping at him and Jimin.

“I brought Taehyung, and Taehyung brought Minsoo.” Jin says proudly, “I thought it would be nice for Jiminie here to have more than just me as his best friend.” 

Jungkook holds back on a pointed jab about how Seokjin isn’t his best friend when he realizes that the new company may be a little shocking for Jimin. He turns to the omega with worried eyes, but he’s met by a soft palm resting across his chest. Jimin is already looking back at him with a comforting expression, as if already knowing what Jungkook was about to say. 

The alpha lets out an exhale, turning to Seokjin. “Next time, let me know beforehand if you’re bringing company.” He glares at his hyung who looks at him sheepishly while he pushes the door open wider to let the three in. 

Taehyung is surprisingly quiet, a stark contrast to his usual boisterous demeanor. Jungkook supposes Jin had briefed him beforehand about how to act around Jimin, probably telling him to tone it down to not startle the other. He owes his hyung gratitudes for that.

When they are all huddled around the living room, standing shyly among each other, a beat of awkward silence crosses them. Jungkook is unsure what to make of it as well, not knowing how to introduce Jimin to Taehyung. He doesn’t want the omega to feel obligated to speak.

When he opens his mouth to flounder for a few filler words, Jimin speaks up. All their heads snap in his direction, not expecting him to have broken the ice for them.

“H-how old is he?” His voice is timid and unsure, laced with insecurity. Jungkook feels him cower further into his side. Jimin was too sweet for his own good. He smiles down at the omega and rubs a hand up and down his back, placing a little kiss on his forehead. He ignores the surprised look Seokjin shoots at him. 

The question was directed at Taehyung whose eyes widened slightly, not expecting the sudden introduction. Jungkook wants to laugh at the uncharacteristically shy expression on the other omega’s face. But he recovers quickly, blushing as he cradles a sleeping Minsoo in his arms. “He’s two years old.” He reveals with flushed cheeks. 

Taehyung is peering up at Jimin, hesitating over his next words. “Want to carry him?” He asks Jimin who looks even more surprised at the words. He turns to Jungkook for reassurance, worries flooding his brain in waves. And as sweet as ever, the alpha nods with a small smile, “Go on, Minsoo is adorable, he won’t make a fuss.” He nuzzles his nose into Jimin’s blonde hair.

Shyly, Jimin detaches from Jungkook’s side. “My back is a little injured so, I might not be able to support him well.” Jimin is trembling as he approaches Taehyung, movements timid and tiny.

When the alpha senses the underlying tone of distress in the omega’s scent, he moves to approach him. But in good old Taehyung-fashion, he easily picks up their conversation, feeling less out of place than he was moments ago. 

Jungkook trusts Taehyung.

Majority of their packmates think the omega is rather knuckle-headed by his overly happy personality. But Jungkook thinks Taehyung is brilliant. Over the years he’s spent with the omega, he’s seen nothing but intelligence in the other. From the expansion of their territories came new-comers, new wolves of different ranks. At first Jungkook would be unsure how to relieve the tension of his current packmates from the new ones, but Taehyung has saved his ass again and again. The omega’s cheerful attitude is simply a facade. Taehyung is smart beyond belief. He knows how to read the room of the new wolves in their pack, he studies their movements and reciprocates them so they accept him more. Taehyung has always been the bridge between his pack to foreign wolves. 

So Jungkook doesn’t feel the slightest bit of doubt at Taehyung’s capabilities. He trusts him with his omega.

“Why don’t you sit down!” Taehyung offers happily, gesturing to the couch. “Then I can put Minsoo in your lap and he can meet his Eomma’s new pretty friend.” He adds sweetly.

Jimin blushes at the compliment, quickly situating himself on the couch with an array of furs to support his back. Jungkook watches in awe as Taehyung sits right beside him, knees touching as he pulls Minsoo away from his chest and onto Jimin’s thighs in one swift motion.

The pup stirs at the sudden change, eyes blinking alive as he peers at the two omegas with curious eyes. Jungkook has a smile curling the tips of his lips when he sees how his omega’s eyes visibly light up when Minsoo reaches to pat his cheek with a fat hand, Taehyung making small sound effects on the side. 

Jimin is clearly smitten by the pup. And the alpha just can’t take his eyes away from the other. He looked so happy in the presence of the little one, looking so beautiful with a smile breaking out on his lips. He wonders what his omega would look like when they have pups of their own, he knows Jimin would make the perfect mother.

“Jiminie, you're so good at handling pups!” Taehyung gasps dramatically, earning a little giggle from Jimin. 

“I love pups.” Jimin says idly as he pads his index finger across Minsoo’s chubby cheeks, making little cooing noises under the insistence of Taehyung. 

The pair easily fall into step with each other, conversation flowing so smoothly that Jungkook could mistake them as childhood friends. Taehyung is beaming beside Jimin, clearly happy to have made a new friend. Jungkook always knew that Taehyung was gifted in making absolutely anyone comfortable around him, even someone as aloof as Jimin.

“That’s adorable.” A voice breaks Jungkook from his little moment, eyes snapping to Seokjin who stood a few feet to his left. “Mhm, yeah they are.” He hums absently, eyes still trained on Jimin who was now engaged in an animated conversation with Taehyung about his pregnancy.

Seokjin snorts from beside him, pushing him away. “Okay. No alphas allowed. I’ll be doing a medical exam on Jiminie and we will be taking the spare bedroom.” He announces loudly, pushing Jungkook to the kitchen, picking Minsoo up from the two omegas who pouted at the loss.

“Here. Play with him a while or something.” Seokjin grouches, placing a giggling Minsoo in Jungkook’s arms. 

The alpha is about to protest, demand that he be in the room with his omega. But Jimin looks at him with twinkling eyes and a pretty smile, mouthing a little “ It’s okay ” before he’s steered in the opposite direction by Jin and Taehyung, still chatting amongst each other. 

Jungkook crosses his arms and sulks when he hears the door close behind the tandem, turning to Minsoo. “See how quick your Eomma sold you out?” He boops the tiny nose, earning a squeaky giggle. The sound makes the alpha smile, turning on his heel to head into his kitchen to prepare a meal for them.

In his spare bedroom, Jimin is on the bed awaiting Seokjin’s instructions. He is in awe over Taehyung and Seokjin who readily filled in the silence in moments he didn’t feel like speaking, they were such strong omegas. Jimin briefly wonders if he could be anything like them someday. 

Through the two omegas he sees how well they thrive in their pack, healthy fat on their cheeks, skin glowing. It was a culture-shock to Jimin who thought his previous diet in his old pack was normal, he realizes now how malnourished and frail he’s become. Seokjin was an excellent healer, he’d brought with him a little satchel filled with supplies, spreading them across the table in the room. At first, the omega was mildly terrified at the look of sharp items, but Jin shut his qualms down with gentle explanations and patient eyes. Jimin watches in wonder as Jin does everything like he was used to it, like he did it everyday. He talked Jimin through every procedure, through every step, from drawing a pinch of blood from his inner elbow, to rubbing his stomach to look for any possible internal concerns. Jimin kept quiet the entire time, eyes flitting between Seokjin and whatever he was doing. 

Although Jimin could tell the elder was much more outgoing, he opted to mute it in his presence so as not to scare him. The omega feels emotions clog up his throat with how thoughtful all of Jungkook’s packmates have been so far. 

Taehyung was everything pleasant in an omega. At first glance, Jimin had mistaken him as shy and reserved, maybe even the quiet type. But from just one conversation with the other, Jimin knew that Taehyung was no quiet wolf. The way his eyes brightened when Jimin had spoken to him is a memory the omega will keep in his heart forever. Jimin thinks there is a beautiful connection blooming between him and Taehyung, he looks forward to exploring it more with the omega. Despite his quietness amidst Taehyung’s monologue, the other omega makes no move to force him to speak. Instead, he keeps talking about anything and everything, making sure to engage Jimin in each of his subjects. 

As Jin had gone through the process of health-checking Jimin, Taehyung delved into the topic of pregnancy. Jimin could barely hide his excitement at the look of pure happiness on the other omega’s face, hands unconsciously cupping his now empty stomach.

“When I was pregnant, everything ached.” He whines, “But I was so beautiful, Jiminie. I wish you could’ve seen me.” Taehyung sighs with stars in his eyes. Jimin bites his lip with a smile, trying to picture the omega with a swollen tummy with a pregnancy-glow that Jimin has never seen for himself.

“I was so big and I was glowing, I was always craving all sorts of food that had Yoongi going to the banquet hall at random hours at night.” He snorts fondly, clearly reminiscing the precious memories of having a pup growing in his belly. “Everyone made way for me, just like any other pregnant omega in the pack. They barely let me lift my finger.” Taehyung says exasperatedly, but his scent gives away how much he loved the special treatment. “That’s why I’m still so chubby now.” He pouts, lifting his shirt to show his belly that drooped over his pants.

The apples of Jimin’s cheeks rise automatically, seeing an array of beautiful white stretch marks across the other’s skin. Taehyung was so pretty and honest and transparent, Jimin already knows that the omega is someone he’ll come to love over time. 

“Chubby looks good on you, Taehyung-ah.” Jin scolds, but there’s barely any bite. He’s standing behind Jimin who lay on his side, checking his back injury. “We all know how much Yoongi is in love with post-pregnancy Taehyung. He acts like you gave birth yesterday, it’s been two years.”

Taehyung blushes at the compliment, looking at his belly. “He does, doesn’t he?” He giggles bashfully, “I like it too.” The omega pokes his own stomach. “It reminds me of what it was like to have Minsoo growing in me.”  

The way Taehyung was expressing his experience was nothing like Jimin has witnessed. Hearing that pregnant wolves were treated with utmost care and priority had something warm blooming in his chest. 

In Jimin’s previous pack, he didn’t see any of that. Instead, all omegas were worked to the bone, whether with pup or not. He remembers the countless wails he’d hear when there’d be a miscarriage, cries of the omegas who wanted nothing more but to rest, he remembers how he’d have to help carry some of the pregnant omegas who had fallen ill during work due to exhaustion. Jimin remembers how the omegas of his old pack were all bony and sharp on the edges with hunger, how he’d give his evening meal to a pregnant mother just for her to have extra food. Every single moment in Jimin’s pack was proving to be a lot sadder the more he found out about how things were in Jungkook’s pack, so peaceful and lovely. 

His mind drifts to his packmates who he hasn’t seen since they’d been discharged from the infirmary. Jimin hopes they’re doing well, being served an abundant amount of love and care that they’ve deserved ever since, he hopes they find their own Jungkook among the Jeon Pack.

Jimin snaps out of his reverie when the other omega squeals in delight. “Ah I know!” Taehyung claps loudly, as if he’d found the solutions to all the problems in the world. Jimin giggles behind his hand at the adorable sight. “I can just get pregnant again so Jiminie can witness it!” His eyes are bright as if it were the most appropriate option he had.

Seokjin scoffs, “Do you want a litter or something? Seriously, when you gave birth to little Minsoo, you were a nightmare. You nearly squeezed the life out of poor Arin’s hand.” He shakes his head, but there’s a smile curling at his lips. 

Taehyung gasps with an offended expression. “If I wanted a litter, Yoongi would give it to me.” He sticks his tongue out petulantly. His behavior is adorable to Jimin who watches the exchange quietly. “He loves how I look when I’m pregnant.” The omega adds.

The other guffaws in laughter from behind Jimin, cold fingers pressing into his back near the tender area of his injury. Jimin allows the bickering of the two wolves to distract him from the mild pain he feels run up his spine. 

“He likes how horny you are.” Jin snaps back.

Jimin blushes at the provocative words, looking at Taehyung for a shocked reaction. But it seems the omega is used to it, a smug expression on his face. “Namjoon-hyung knocked you up not a month after your pup was delivered, so shut it.” 

Jin’s cheeks are burning as he reaches over to swat Taehyung with a whine. Jimin giggles at the two, watching as they put up an air of false-hostility by useless fighting, only to smile fondly at each other after. Jimin hopes to be able to share that with them someday.

When their laughter settles down, Jin prods at his back with gentle fingers. At the sudden touch, Jimin whimpers at the pain that curled up his spine. He tries to wiggle away from the fingers, but it’s no use. Jin just looks at him, gauging his expression of discomfort.

“Sorry, just a little more.” He soothes, letting his scent of freshly baked bread surround Jimin. When Jimin reaches for furs to grip as Jin moves to press into his skin, his hand comes in contact with a warm and much larger one instead.

His eyes snap open in surprise, he’s met with the kindest and sweetest pair of Taehyung’s hazel colored ones. He offers an encouraging nod, gesturing to his open palm. “It’s okay. You can hold me so I can feel the pain with you.” Taehyung lets his words flow so easily, as if he were confident that if they’d touch he’d feel the pain Jimin felt. Although the omega knew it was impossible, the feeling of absolute adoration took over his heart at the consoling words. 

Jimin places his small hand into the omega’s, intertwining their fingers as he squeezes his eyes shut. Seokjin doesn’t linger on his back much longer, nodding in understanding once Jimin winces at the touch again. Taehyung is sitting right in front of him when he opens his eyes, still holding his hand comfortingly. 

His eyes brighten when Jimin looks at him. “See? We shared your pain so it hurts less for both of us!” He beams happily. Jimin bites his lip shyly, hiding behind his fringe. He hasn’t met Taehyung’s alpha yet, but he can see what made him fall in love with the omega, a true heart of gold. 

“Thank you, Taehyung-ah.”

Seokjin smiles at the two who don’t release their hands, moving to pick up some of his stuff. “There seems to be nothing wrong with the blood samples I’ve taken, there’s no damage along your intestines and stomach area as well, nor in your urethra.” He notes, “However, I do advise that you take as much rest as necessary. Your back injury is healing well, but it will still take a long time before you can shift into your wolf form.”

“I’m happy to tell you though that the worst of the pain from your injury is over, although it doesn’t feel like it is, your healing process has taken a very favorable turn.” Jin says proudly, “I advise that you take short walks even if it’s around the house, don’t sit too long in a single position, but be sure not to over-exert yourself. Try stretching as well, not too much, just a mild routine just to get your blood running, it’ll help speed up the recovery process.”

“On a final note, I think you’re good to go. The only major concern now, health-wise, is your back injury. So walking is good, a little stretching is good, but avoid rough activities and I’d say maybe wait a little longer before playing with any pups or doing anything beyond speed walking.” 

Jimin nods dutifully, making sure he digests every piece of information. He pouts slightly at the ‘no playing with pups’ rule, but Jimin decides he’ll do all it takes to recover so that he could play with Minsoo soon. He adores the rosy-cheeked pup already.

A lightbulb pops up in Jimin’s head when he remembers something. “Jin-hyung… if it’s not too much trouble, could I request for some…” Jimin flounders uselessly. Jin waits patiently, scent soothing to the omega who was wracking his brain for a way to describe it.

“Is it an injury of yours?” Seokjin asks quietly, making sure his words are careful, trying to help the omega out. Taehyung’s hand is still rubbing circles into Jimin’s much smaller one, nodding at him encouragingly.

“I mean--this morning, Jungkook’s back was full of bruises, I just--I want to know what I could do to help?” Jimin makes a series of motions with his hands, feeling unsure of himself.

But Seokjin claps in understanding, “Ah! I can give you a cooling solution I brewed from a few eucalyptus herbs. Unfortunately, it won’t speed up the process much, but it will alleviate any soreness your alpha may be feeling.” Seokjin wants to tease the other omega over how he didn’t even flinch at the words ‘your alpha’ but he holds back, not wanting to test Jimin’s limits today.

He reaches into his satchel, placing a small packet into Jimin’s hands and explaining how it’s used. Jimin is the best student, Seokjin could already tell. He was attentive and serious, asking questions every now and then as he explained. When Taehyung starts to get antsy over being separated from Minsoo for too long, they decide to begin looking for the two wolves. 

When they emerge from the bedroom, Jimin immediately catches on to the scent of food. Slowly but surely, with the support of Taehyung and Jin on both his sides, they make it across the living room and into the arc that leads to the kitchen where the alpha’s scent was coming from. They peer into the room to find Jungkook cutting at a piece of meat, Minsoo watching him intently. Taehyung coos at the look on his little pup’s face, knowing how much Minsoo adored Jungkook. Jimin bites back a smile when Jungkook cuts off a piece of tenderloin, feeding it to Minsoo who brightens up happily. His alpha was beyond perfect.

He wonders how Jungkook will be when they have a pup of their own. Would he be the stern and scolding parent, or would he be the one that lets the pup escape with all of his antics? Would he protect their pup, play with their pup until the sunrise? Would Jungkook cherish Jimin and their pup? Would they be a happy family?

Just one look at how Jungkook treats Minsoo told him his alpha has been everything he's ever dreamed of in an alpha.

“You scored yourself a real alpha Jiminie.” Taehyung remarks from beside him as the trio watches in awe. Jin nods in agreement, but it seems like Jimin was the only one looking at the alpha, the two others diverted their attention and decided to observe his reaction. He blushes in response, averting his gaze to slap at Taehyung’s arm shyly. 

“He’s right. There’s no one I know that would treat you better than Jungkookie.” Jin rubs his shoulder, admiring how Jimin’s cheeks got redder by the second. He whines in embarrassment, moving to waddle over to where Jungkook stood, he was starting to miss his alpha as well. Taehyung takes the opportunity to leap at Minsoo.

The alpha’s head snaps up when he hears his omega’s soft padding, followed by the much louder footsteps of Taehyung and Jin. A beautiful smile adorns Jungkook’s face as he opens his right arm, Jimin falling into his side easily. 

“Hi.” He says quietly, dropping his kitchen duties to give the omega his undivided attention. Jimin flushes when Seokjin and Taehyung look at him knowingly. “Hi.” The omega responds quietly.

“Well, Minsoo here has been my helpful little snack warrior, right Minsoo?” The alpha says engagingly to the pup whose chest puffs out proudly, nodding. Taehyung coos, pinching at the boy’s cheeks. Jimin giggles at the little interaction. “We made you snacks.” Jungkook gestures, allowing Minsoo to present the two neatly packed meal sets, bundled in banana leaves. Jimin knows Jungkook was the one who packed it, but it’s adorable how he gives the credit to Minsoo who drinks in the mention, ears perked in interest.

“Having us leave already, huh?” Jin crosses his arms, knowing Jungkook’s tactics all too well. The alpha scowls, curling a possessive arm around Jimin’s shoulders. “It’s not my fault I want to spend time with my mate.” He shoots back defensively.

“And, if I remember correctly, the moment Namjoon-hyung and you hit it off, I didn’t see him for a good three mo-!” Jungkook’s little jab is cut off by Seokjin who claps his hands.

“Alright!” He yells suddenly, cheeks red. Jimin snorts at the shy look on the other’s face. Seokjin rushes to grab his meal pack, turning on his heel abruptly. “Bye Jiminie, Taehyungie, everyone except Jungkook.” He grumbles, slamming the front door on his way out. Jimin can’t help but smile fondly, turning to Taehyung who mirrored his expression.

“Well! I’ll be going as well.” He collects Minsoo into his arms, then cradling his meal pack under his arm. He walks over to Jimin, taking the omega by surprise when he nuzzles their foreheads together. It’s a little gesture, unfamiliar to Jimin, but he feels how genuine it is. Taehyung stays for a few moments before retracting, “It was so nice meeting you Jiminie, I’ll come by soon!” Taehyung announces, not sparing Jungkook a glance to ask him for permission to see Jimin. Taehyung wouldn’t take no for an answer anyway.

“Bye, Taehyungie! It was lovely meeting you.” Jimin is waving enthusiastically just before the door shuts. He thinks his relationship with Taehyung will grow into something beautiful. 

When Taehyung is out of sight, Jungkook snaps to Jimin with a frown on his face. It seemed as if he was holding off on saying anything while they had guests. Jimin tilts his head, confused at the childish expression. But Jungkook just wordlessly leans into his neck, nosing around the column of his throat. The omega just lets him, head tilting back in submission when he feels his alpha’s comforting scent of peppermint and pine run through his body. He lets Jungkook take his time, leisurely rubbing his nose into each inch of skin available to him. It brings him a sense of comfort, all tension in his body lost to the warmth of his mate’s body against his. He hadn’t even noticed he’d been on edge until now.

It’s a few minutes later when Jungkook lets out a sigh of relief, Jimin’s scent is completely covered by his own. He retreats from the omega’s porcelain skin, a hazy smile on his lips. He’s clearly satisfied with himself. Jimin raises a brow at the odd behavior (he’s not complaining, though).

The alpha just whines, arms tightening around Jimin as he moves to hide in his omega’s neck. “You smell like Taehyung.” He groans shyly, nosing across his collarbone again. 

Oh. Oh . 

Jimin blushes at the show of possession, he hadn’t even thought about his scent. He savored how affected Jungkook was by Jimin smelling like someone else, the omega was preening within him. He was a little too pleased by this. He doesn’t want us smelling like anyone else! His omega exclaims within him, in pure glee. Jimin blushes at the realization that Jungkook was just as gone for him as he was. 

“Sorry.” He says half-heartedly, barely making an effort to mask his happiness, it makes Jungkook snort in amusement. “Aren’t you a little too pleased by this?” The alpha scoffs, detaching from his mate’s neck. 

Jimin’s cheeks are pink, but he chooses to ignore the accusation. He just hums, hands coming up to rest on the alpha’s chest. “Is my alpha that in love with me already?” Jimin tries to play it off as a joke, tangling his hand in the other’s raven locks. But honestly, Jimin just needed to hear it again. He needed constant reassurance that yes , Jungkook still loved him, and that yes, it wasn’t a one sided thing. 

Jungkook sees right through him, a stern gaze overtaking his features. It makes Jimin look away. “Of course I’m that in love with you.” There’s no teasing in his tone, no sign of joking or even a trace of humor. It’s raw and genuine, it’s everything Jimin has ever wanted and more. 

“I love you in all ways, Jimin.” Jungkook grasps his cheek gently, as if he were made of fine china and one wrong move he’d break. The alpha turns his jaw slowly to bring them face-to-face, “There’s no one I love more on this land than I love you.” His voice drips in sincerity, it almost makes Jimin cry.

He purses his lip, peering at the alpha from behind the hair that fell onto his face. “Just on this land? How about across the seas?” The omega pouts.

Jungkook’s eyes widen comically, then a beat of silence, then he’s tumbling into Jimin with barks of laughter escaping his lips. The sound of Jungkook’s laughter is something he never wants to forget, like the sound of a thousand shooting stars flying across  the galaxy all at once. Jungkook was so beautiful. Jimin thinks the stars fell onto the earth, and one-by-one, the Moon Goddess had picked each up and reincarnated it into the alpha.

His inner monologue is cut short when a pair of smiling lips press onto his firmly, not making a single move to detach. Jimin gasps into the kiss, feeling the way Jungkook’s arms caged him against the corner counter in the kitchen. The omega reciprocates, lips relaxing on instinct, like the alpha’s chapped ones were made for him. It was like they were the perfect shape and mold for each other, a match made in the heavens.

Jimin should probably feel a little guilty for dismissing Taehyung and Seokjin so hastily, but he honestly can’t bring himself to when Jungkook is kissing him so sweetly.  He feels the alpha’s lips curl against his, a soft chuckle escaping him when they part.

“Fine, future mate.” He crosses his arms, leaving Jimin to lean against the counter. “I love you against all seas, and across all lands. I love you from the Moon Goddess and back.” 

Like a promise, Jungkook seals his words with a kiss to Jimin’s lips. 

“I love you too.” Jimin rolls his eyes, turning to the side in faux ignorance, trying not to let his hammering heart be known. But the deep red on his cheeks tell Jungkook enough. His little one was so shy. 

“Oh!” Jimin exclaims suddenly, reaching into the front of his pants, lifting his shirt slightly. Jungkook turns his gaze down, finding a small packet squeezed between Jimin’s pearly white skin and the tan colors of his clothing. He doesn’t let his gaze linger, looking back at Jimin who presents the pack between his two hands bashfully. “I asked Jin-hyung for something to help with your bruises, i-is that okay? May I?” He squeaks out, nerves getting the best of him. 

And Holy Shit , Jungkook is seriously gone. 

He realizes that this is everything he’s ever needed, this is everything he’s ever wanted in life. His once crushed dreams for a mate and a family were now reshaped and placed right in front of him. Jungkook has finally found the love his parents had always talked about, he’s finally found out what it feels like to love, and be loved. There’s nothing better than this. Jungkook’s life of privilege has always brought him to believe that love would be found in expensive jewelry, doused in gold, and high ranked Heads from other packs. But never did he think it would come like this. Jungkook has found love, right under his nose, in the form of a frail but extremely strong omega who has not known what love is like. Jimin was the definition of love itself. In the simplest of forms, Jimin is everything Jungkook has been searching for in his years alone. A mate he could take care of, and a mate who could take care of him as well. 

“I love you, you know that?” Jungkook voices out, hands finding his omega’s lithe waist, a little fuller with food under his touch. Jimin blushes, but smiles up at him, “You’ve mentioned that, alpha, yes. I know that. And I love you much much more.” 

If Jungkook’s packmates were to see him now, they probably would not recognize him. He looked so lovestruck with the tiny omega, so completely stupid and drunk with his strong emotions towards the other. He thinks he could melt into a puddle with just one gaze from Jimin.

The alpha barely registers the way he omega’s adorable little fingers curl around his hand, tugging him in the direction of their bedroom. Jimin glances at him for reassurance, to which he nods, stealing another kiss that earns him a weak slap to his chest. He snorts at the action, letting Jimin pull him into the room shyly, pushing him towards the bed. 

Jungkook doesn’t even question it, he’s that in love with Jimin. He thinks if Jimin were to bring him to a cliff and have him stand on the edge, he wouldn’t dare bat an eye at it. Anything Jimin wants, he’d give, he knows it. 

“Okay, u-um.” Jimin begins blushing, “T-take off your shirt, and, uh, lie on your back. So I can--you know, put the thing.” He stammers pathetically, flailing the little packet around in a desperate attempt to release his jitters. Jungkook coos, placing a tiny kiss on his omega’s nose before doing as he’s told.

Although Jimin had seen Jungkook in his very naked (torso) glory in the morning, he can’t help but feel shy when the tanned skin is revealed to his eyes once again. He waddles over to where Jungkook has settled, kneeling down beside the alpha’s limp body. It’s honestly not Jimin’s fault, really , it’s his omega’s. He can’t stop the way his eyes immediately trail to the protruding muscles in his back, making him look a thousand times stronger than any alpha Jimin has ever seen. He remains silent, memorizing each nook and curve of Jungkook’s gorgeous figure. Jungkook is so broad, and strong, so painfully perfect Jimin could honestly collapse. 

“My eyes are over here, you know.” Jungkook says snarkily, like the smart-ass he is. Jimin blushes, suddenly fumbling with the packet, bringing it open by it’s nylon ties. Jungkook smiles in amusement, so fond of the omega who continued avoiding his gaze.

“You can look, Jimin.” The alpha reaches for his shaking hands, untying the knots himself. “I’m your alpha. Of course you can look. I’d be insulted if you didn’t.” He smiles encouragingly, his free hand reaching up to caress the omega’s cheek for a short second. Jimin continues blushing down at his thighs, before looking at Jungkook, then reluctantly to his back. 

There are several dark blooms, all of different colors, some yellow, others violent purples and blues. Despite the marks, Jimin sees nothing but the most beautiful and perfect wolf he’s ever laid eyes on. Hesitantly, he reaches his hand out to rest across the unmarked skin along his back. Jungkook shivers under the touch, the omega’s hands slightly colder than room temperature. 

Jungkook is honestly honored to know that Jimin appreciates his stature. He worked hard to become the perfect alpha for his mate. And it’s even better that it’s Jimin , looking at him with hungry eyes. Jungkook is helpless under his gaze, like he was a prey, just ready to feed whatever the predator wanted from him. 

“H-Here.” The alpha stutters out, trying to ignore the way electricity runs up his spine just by the single touch of his omega. Jimin reaches for the pack oblivious to the storm inside the alpha’s head, shifting to get comfortable before he applies the ointment.

Jungkook watches the omega’s intricate little facial expressions. The way his tongue darks out his lips from concentration, the tiny furrow in his eyebrows, the squinting of his eyes, the way his plump lips looked like they were begging to be kissed. Every single piece of Jimin was just so lovable and pretty, he completely forgets about the slight soreness along his back. 

“You’re pretty.” He says dumbly, enjoying the way a flush runs up the omega’s neck, becoming stronger at the tips of his ears. Jimin pokes his side lightly in retaliation, before continuing to rub soothing circles along his injured areas. There’s a cooling sensation that comes after, but it does nothing to tame the fire brought by Jimin’s touch. He just had that effect on him, the alpha wonders if he’s doing it on purpose, or if he truly is oblivious. Jungkook feels like he’s in the clouds.

“Alright. Seems good enough.” There’s a proud look on Jimin’s face before he looks at Jungkook, unconsciously searching for compliments on his handy-work. Jungkook’s chest swells with affection. His omega was so transparent and cute.

“Good omega. So good for your alpha. You are the perfect mate.” He leans up to press a kiss on the omega’s forehead. 

Jungkook remembers they still have a snack pack waiting to be consumed in the kitchen, but he forfeits the idea when he sees Jimin biting his lip, peering up at him expectantly. All coherent thoughts leave him as he goes to kiss the omega, hand flying up to support Jimin’s back while he lays him out on the furs of his bedding. Jimin just sighs in relief, enjoying the way their lips felt against each other. 

Jungkook parts after a few languid kisses, elbows resting on either side of the omega’s head who looked completely blissed out and beautiful on his bed. There’s a strike of possession that runs up his body as he realizes that Jimin’s scent was nowhere in sight, Jimin smelled just like him. He smiles smugly at the knowledge.

“What an alpha.” Jimin utters, noticing the cocky expression on his alpha’s face.

“Shush.” The alpha allows himself another kiss, and another, until he finally gives in to the voice inside his head.

It dawns on him that their morning conversation never really had a proper close. Even if he knows he gave comfort to the omega, his alpha doesn’t settle knowing how much Jimin needed reassurance. And he’d do it any day, any time, if it means letting Jimin know he was there, that it wasn’t just him fighting alone.

“Listen, Jimin.” He rubs his thumb against Jimin’s cheekbone. The omega looks at him patiently. “I just want you to know that nothing you ever tell me will make me stop loving you. I am so proud of you for telling me what happened to you, I’m so unbelievably proud of you, Jimin.” Jungkook kisses his cheek firmly. “I love every piece of you, even your past.”

Jimin nuzzles into Jungkook’s hand that rested on his cheek. The alpha smiles at him fondly, “You’re my strong omega, Jimin. Your past doesn’t define you, I promise.” He kisses the omega’s hand in promise, eyes determined.

The omega just smiles at him, not a trace of discomfort or distress on his face, instead he feels at peace. Jimin finds truth in the alpha’s words, he no longer carried the burden alone, but he carried it with Jungkook as well. He finally feels free. Sang-hoon has always been a big part of his life, a constant shadow looming over him. But now, he is simply an ant to Jimin who felt like the strongest wolf in the world with Jungkook. He’s not alone anymore. 

“I love you, Jungkook.” He leans up to kiss the alpha’s chin.

“I love you, Head Omega.”

The two giggle childishly.