Walking back home with the rest of his friends, Jimin can't help but feel upset. His mate was friends with Park Bogum, a werewolf just like him. While the male was decent Jimin didn't like the other touching his mate. Just at the sight, his wolf had growled, his snarls loud in his mind. As anger had started to build so did the ugly feeling in his chest that he had never felt before surfaced. For a moment, as he let himself soak in the anger and what he would later learn as jealousy, Jimin reminded himself that he had no right. His mate could be friends with whoever 'specially when to him he was nothing but a stranger. 

Another thing Jimin also didn't like was how comfortable the two seemed together. The more he thought of it the more his thoughts began to turn negative, especially when his mind couldn't help but recall the way Bogum had held his mate. Or the way Taehyung seemed to melt into his embrace and that shortly after when he had left the table how they seemed to gravitate toward one another. It was almost as if they were finally meeting again after being torn apart. The usual space between friends gone as they had begun to speak to one another. Heads tilted toward one another and voice's soft. Or how Bogum's arm had wrapped around Taehyung's shoulder. Shaking his head Jimin at his lips. His mind once more recalling what had happened during their fitness class before they had been dismissed.

Eyes lazily gazing from one person to another Jimin's eyes brightened when he saw Taehyung come out of the changing room. Heart pounding loudly the fluttering in his stomach along with his wolf's excitement has him bouncing on the heels of his feet. Just as he began to make his way over he paused when he saw Taehyung turn around. The blue shirt that he was wearing displaying the name, PARK BOGUM with the number 16 had him growing upset if only for a moment. Pushing away the ugly feeling Jimin continues to make his way over, his steps long and even. Just as he lightly taps Taehyung's shoulder the whistle he hears has him sighing. 'Why is it so hard to talk to him alone? To learn about my mate and who he is? To learn every inch of him and let him learn about me.' 

When he turns around Jimin misses the small flinch and the way green eyes follow after him. Instead, as he glares at the back of his coaches head for a moment his steps slow when he finally realizes that his mate wasn't as close to him as he wanted him.   

Following their teacher, Jimin's eyes flicker to his mate. Seeing him wrap his arms around himself when he bumps into others he slows his steps until he's a bit behind Taehyung. Sticking out his arm behind him Jimin glares at those who bump into his mate. When one of the wolves don't see him and they elbow Taehyung, Jimin wraps his hand around the other male's wrist. Squeezing tightly when hazel eyes looked up he let a low rumble sound his fangs bared and his eyes red before his eyes once more took on a dark blue shade. Seeing the other hesitate Jimin let's go of his wrist when the other wolf seems to finally back off. Ignoring the small huff, his eyes remain narrowed. Jimin doesn't drop his arm until the other wolves seem to understand just who Taehyung was to him. When the rest of the wolves back off the tension in his shoulders slowly rolls off in waves. Just as he turns to face the front he can't help but glance once more to his mate.

When his eyes catch green eyes peering at him he smiles only for it to fall when his mate quickly glances away. 'Am I doing something wrong? Did I freak him out when I was staring at him in class before?'

Once they're out the door with the sun up high in the sky and the soft blowing of the wind, Jimin lets out a sigh of contentment when the strong scent of strawberries was all he could smell.  When his eyes landed on the track not too far away Jimin can't stop the grin that forms it isn't until he hears a groan to his right that he once more looks over. Seeing the look of anguish on Taehyung's face he bites the bottom of his lip as he looks away. 'Seems like he's not really into exercising.'

As soon as the teacher began to tell them to run laps he was off. Glancing around he frowned when he saw Taehyung towards the back. Picking up his pace as he runs around the track, Jimin ignores the rest of his classmates as they try to get him to have a race with them. Once he's close enough to his mate, his pace slows into a jog. As his eyes take in the flush across full cheeks and the way brown locks moved with the bounce of Taehyung's steps and the caress of the wind he can't help but think that Taehyung was truly beautiful. It isn't until he sees curious green watching him that he looks away. With each lap that they finished Jimin couldn't help but take in the darkening flush across Taehyung's cheeks and the sweat gathering. When he hears Taehyung gasping for air, Jimin was relieved when their teacher blows on the whistle. As they made their way back to the locker room, Jimin trailed after his eyes glancing at his classmates as he tried to understand his mate who would shrink in on himself whenever anyone got too close.  

Having done nothing but run laps for the rest of the class Jimin had been disappointed when he saw Bogum waiting out in the hall. Letting out a resigned sigh he made his way down the hall but not without looking over his shoulder. Seeing Bogum grabbing Taehyung's bag and throwing it over his shoulder as he pulled him into a one-armed hug he looked away. 'How can I talk to him when we keep getting interrupted?' 

Moving behind Hoseok as an elderly couple made there way down the sidewalk he moved back to his side once they passed. Eyes narrowing Jimin can't help but wonder how Bogum knew his mate. The fondness and familiarity was so intimate and gentle that the question, if they were dating, or had before came to mind. 'Who are they to each other?'

Ignoring the jab to his ribs all Jimin could think about was his mate and his relationship with Park Bogum. The questions beginning to grow with each second that ticked by, but what bothered him the most was the uneasy look in Taehyung's eyes whenever he got to close. 'Why was he so uncomfortable around me? Does he not like werewolves?? No, if he did he wouldn't be friends with Bogum? Or does he not know? No, he must know. Maybe Bogum is the exception.'

"Jimin why are you sulking?"

Hearing the small amusement in Hoseok's voice, Jimin pushes him away as he kicks at the pebble before him. His mind conjuring the image of Bogum when his foot connects with it. 

'Stupid Bogum, coming and stealing Taehyung's attention from me. Why can't he go and bother someone else.'

Taking in a deep breath his lips form a small smile as he says, "I found him."

"Who?"

Taking a quick glance at Hoseok, Jimin hesitates for a moment before he finally managed to say, "My soulmate, my mate. It's Taehyung."

For a minute or two everyone is silent. Their eyes wide and mouths gaping all except for Hoseok who had thought so. Swinging his and Yoongi's hand Hoseok smiles brightly before he's saying, "That's great! He seems like a really nice guy, a little quiet. Oh, and he's cute too."

Growling Jimin's eyes flicker to Yoongi who had growled as well. As his eyes land on his friend before he can decide what to do Hoseok slaps the back of Yoongi's head. His eyes narrowed and a frown now displayed on his face. "Yoongi! I'm your mate. Even if I wanted to....I'm sure Jimin wouldn't let me. Isn't that right, Jimin?"

Mouth gaping Jimin quickly closes it shut before he's groaning. 'Would he....no! No! He's just joking around.'

Rolling his eyes he looks away from Hoseok's wide grin and his laughing eyes. "I never should have said anything."

As they continued to make their way home, Jimin can't help but watch Namjoon closely. Seeing his mouth set into a frown and his eyes glaring down at the sidewalk he can't help but wonder just what Namjoon was thinking. Mouth opening he bites the end of his tongue. Looking away Jimin decides that maybe he was imagining what he was seeing. Instead, he decides to focus on a way to get closer to his mate unaware of the confusion plaguing Namjoon who couldn't help but question why Taehyung's scent was familiar but new.

Having arrived back home Jimin was silent throughout dinner. His mind drifting to his mate with each minute that would go on by. It's only when he's about to slip into bed that his thoughts are disrupted. When his mother enters the nervousness from before diminishes. Offering a small smile, Jimin waits until the door closes as he moves to the edge of his bed. Sighing at the hands running through his hair Jimin plays with the phone in his hand. Biting the inside of his cheek he peers up at his mother who as of yet had said nothing. When his mother sits beside him, Jimin's glad when she doesn't pressure or question him. 

Placing his phone aside Jimin moves to where his pillows laid. Burying himself under his blankets he tries to think of what he wanted to ask. Voice a low whisper he turns to his side he pauses. Waiting as his mother moves until she's right by his side he asks, "Mom, what did you feel when you met dad?"

As he watches his mother purse her lips he begins to feel queasy until he sees a smile bloom across her face. Her voice soft and reassuring, "I felt happy and a little confused. Why do you ask?"

"Its...it's just I want to know what to expect when I meet my mate."

"Oh, sweetie. Everyone feels something different."

"Really?"

At her nod, he lets out a shaky exhale, "Everyone when they meet their mate feels something different. When you meet your mate you'll know, you might be excited, confused, nervous, maybe even angry and well your mate depending on whether or not he's a werewolf will feel something different compared to what you do."

"What if my mate is human?"

"It'll be different. Your mate won't have an inner wolf to tell him or her who you are, but in a way, your mate will know that you're different. You'll just have to work a little harder to make a connection, but you don't know yet and sweetie. You have all the time in the world to get to know your mate. You will, I know you want to find your mate, but when the time comes that's when you'll be ready."

At the gentle kiss pressed to his forehead he watches his mother leave. His thoughts drifting to Taehyung and what he could do to reassure his mate that he wasn't someone to be afraid of. Or how much he would mean to him later on. Hands clutching tightly onto his pillow Jimin can only hope that tomorrow he'd be able to learn more about his mate. For once when his eyes fall shut and dreams claim him the figure in his dreams take a form. At the shade of green eyes swirling brightly the laugh that escapes him as he chases after Taehyung has a smile forming.

---

While they walked they remained silent. Letting himself being pulled closer, Taehyung wishes he could go with Bogum, but at the thought of not seeing his father dread fills him. As much as he didn't want to go home, he couldn't imagine going anywhere else. Not when the only family that he had left was the man who raised him. The only parent who hadn't left him. With each step that Taehyung takes his mind begins to drift off. 

Peering at his father from the side of the couch, Taehyung takes a small step forward. Voice soft, wide innocent green eyes stare at his father who as he asks refuses to glance his way, "Why did mama leave us?"

As his father turned around, Taehyung remained silent. His eyes curious, as he took in his father.

As the father stared down at his only child he can't help but hate and love him. His thoughts and emotions conflicting with one another as he takes in the small form of the boy who has yet to approach him. The usual laughter and bright spirit, gone after he had lost his temper earlier and raised his voice, his hand barely coming to a stop as his son has let out a cry in fear. Swallowing the last remains of his beer he sets the can down. As his eyes take in the rumpled clothing and the hand now in Taehyung's mouth he let's out a hardly noticeable sigh. Beckoning his four-year-old son to him, he pulls him onto his lap when Taehyung raises his arms. His small, "Up, up," endearing at the moment.

As his son stares widely at him, Kim Gun Mo can't help but curse his ex-wife for leaving him with their child. ' Kim Seohyung, what kind of mother leaves her child? Why did you leave me for Kim Kwang-kyu? Do we really mean nothing to you?'

Sighing Gunmo stares at his son silently his eyes taking in familiar features, but when his eyes lock with green eyes the hatred that had begun to grow vanished at the moment. Pushing away the hair getting in Taehyung's eyes the thought that one-day Taehyung would leave him just like his mother formed. Grip tightening he ignores the wince and small cry he elicited from his child. Hands shaking he breathes in and out, his hold tightening until he finally knows what he's going to say. What he's goes to do to ensure his wife would never be able to get custody of their son or gain the trust and love that she had spit on when she left them. Loosening his hold he ruffles Taehyung's hair, his lips in a grin to ease the unsure emotions his son displayed.

Clearing his throat he gives a small smile before he stares directly into eyes that look just like his. 'How would you feel Seohyung if your son would hate you with a passion?'

Giving a sad smile, Gunmo's eyes slowly teared up. As Taehyung's little hands wiped away his father's tears he missed the hatred in the eyes watching his movements. "Appa, don't cry."

"Taehyung will you leave me one day?"

At the question, Taehyung shakes his head rapidly. His eyes wide as he stared at his father in confusion. Clutching tightly onto his father's shirt, Taehyung's bottom lips slowly begins to wobble.

Coughing into his sleeve Gunmo whispers, "Your eomma left us. She doesn't want us anymore."

When he sees tears swell up in wide eyes and the bottom of his son's lip wobble he felt a small amount of elation until he hears the question asked.

"Was...was I bad?"

Wiping away at the tears, Gunmo decides the best thing to do would be to move. Somewhere where Seohyung wouldn't find them and wouldn't be able to take Taehyung when she finally would decide to take him back. Rubbing Taehyung's back Gunmo is quick to reassure him. "No, no, Taehyung. Your eomma just wants another family. Another son, but Taehyung appa will never leave you."

"Never?"

Hugging Taehyung to his chest, Gunmo rises to his feet as he begins to take his child to bed. His voice soft, and his eyes dark when he finally answers, "Never."

Coming to the corner of the sidewalk both males come to a stop. As Taehyung turns around he lets out a shaky exhale when Bogum pulls him into an embrace. 'Don't leave me, please.'

Burying his face in the crook of Bogum's neck Taehyung takes in a deep breath, his hands clutching onto the back of the dark blue blazer as he tries to make the moment last. The desire to soak in the warmth and safety he felt when around the older strong. His fear that he was imagining Bogum surfacing, yet at the familiar press of hands and the sweet smell of honey his racing heart begins to slow down. But the ache in his chest remains.

Running his hand slowly into Taehyung's back Bogum resists the urge to scent the male in his arms. Taking in a deep breath he swallows a groan when strawberries are all he can taste and breathe. Feeling Taehyung slightly flinch in his hold he swallows a growl. His wolf's anger growing.

When his childhood friend pulls back Taehyung ignores the stinging in his eyes, reluctantly his hands detangle from the blue uniform beneath his hands and in between the gaps of his fingers. Gasping as large warm hands cradle his face he stares right into warm hazel eyes. The emotion flashing in Bogum's eyes confusing. 

Bogum's eyes flicker gold for a moment, as he stares right into swirling vivid green. While a part of him was afraid of letting Taehyung go back home, another part of him knew that if his friend didn't go home that what would happen to him would be much worse. Voice soft Bogum asks, "I'll see you tomorrow?"

Afraid he wouldn't be able to answer without crying Taehyung nods. Once Bogum let's go he makes his way back home. His heart pounding and his hands shaking, glancing back, the sight of Bogum fading farther away has him wanting to run back. Had his mind scrupling with each step Bogum takes and each minute that goes by. Swallowing the lump in his throat Taehyung takes one step forward, his hand already stretched out and his mouth forming his name before he's turning back around. His eyes lowered to the ground as he moves further down the street the clean houses fading into broken sidewalks, overgrown grass and run down houses. When he closes the door behind him Taehyung is relieved to find the house empty.

Being care of the glass and cigarette buds lying on the ground he makes his way to his room. Putting his backpack away he's once more in between the kitchen and living room. Glancing around his home he let's out a sigh at the lack of picture, chipped paint and the few pieces of furniture they have. Grabbing the broom from the kitchen Taehyung begins to sweep and pick up the cans of beer lying around before he begins washing the dishes. Placing the empty glasses on the table Taehyung is quick to set the table and pull out the pack of beer from the fridge just as the door opens. 

Quickly rushing out into the living room he greets his father. At the grunt, he smiles. Eyes following his father Taehyung waits to be dismissed at the quick confirmation he quickly runs to his room. Closing the door he locks the door and puts the chair beneath the doorknob. Soon enough as the sky begins to darken the sound of drunk laughter and yelling fills the room like the day before. As sleep evades him Taehyung moves the chair away from the door. Having remembered what his father said he curled himself in the corner of the mattress his body buried beneath the clothing that he had placed on it to stay warm. As the noise outside his door and down the hall gets louder he closes his eyes. Focusing on the sound of his heart beating, he breathes in and out slowly. His hands clutching around his blue blanket when someone walks by his door. When he hears the sound of the music fill the air, he lets the voice of the singer be his pied piper. 

Walking around Taehyung doesn't know where he's at. Despite the fact that he had no idea where he was he felt strangely calm. Making his way down the white halls his eyes flicker from side to side. When he hears something behind him breaking he turns around. Taking a step back he frowns when he doesn't see anyone or anything. But just as he blinks his eyes widen as the halls begin to take color and lockers begin to form along with trophy cases, posters aligning the walls and frame filled with pictures of past alumni and teams. Mouth dropping he closes his eyes shut when a bright light suddenly blinds him. Rubbing at his eyes he lets out a sigh of relief when he realizes that he's in the academy. 

his lips Taehyung takes a hesitating step down the hall. 'Where do I go?'

Not hearing any noise, Taehyung begins to walk. His head turning in every direction, his ears straining to pick any sound and his eyes wide. Coming to the end of the hall he makes his way to the glass doors. Pressing his face against the glass he stares at the other building of the academy. Opening the door just as he takes a step forward the headmasters words to never go into the building ring in his head. Taking a step back as the doors come to a close before him Taehyung tries to ignore the curiosity growing. Reaching out for the door handle again the sound of footsteps has him looking back where he came from. When he doesn't see anyone his heart begins to race as the sound of footsteps gets louder and faster. Pulling the handle he quickly slips through the door. 

Running down the sidewalk when he reaches the other building Taehyung's relieved when the door opens. Without glancing back he runs down the hall turning around the corner his steps slow into a walk. Biting his lower lip Taehyung is confused about where everyone was and why he was at the academy in the first place and where the sound from before was coming from. It's only when he hears bright laughter that he lets out a shaky exhale making his way where the laugh had come from Taehyung peers around the threshold of the door. As his eyes take in rows of roundtables his eyes land on the male sitting not too far away. Slowly making his way over he flinches when he hears a low growl looking around for any stray dog's his eyebrows furrow when he doesn't see any. Turning back around he lets out a gasp when he sees a face to close to his. 

Letting out a shriek he stumbles back. The male before him now facing him.  Quickly creating some space between them Taehyung can't help but ask, "Why can't I see your face?"

As the male ignores his question and begins to walk towards him Taehyung represses the urge to scream and run. While a part of him was scared another part of him didn't want to leave now that he had found someone else. Even if he couldn't see their face. Flinching at the hand under his chin, Taehyung slowly peers up as his face is tilted forward. His breath hitching when he can start to see the male's face. Taking a step closer just as he raises his hand darkness envelops him. 

The day was exactly like the night, draining. As the face of the boy in his dreams began to clear up the harsh hand pulling him from his bed had a scream tearing through his throat. Gasping Tahyung resists the urge to kick as he's dragged down the hall. Heart pounding he bites back a whimper at the tight grip. The loud curses having him wanting the ground to swallow him up. When he's finally let go Taehyung scrambles to his feet. His eyes taking in the disheveled hair of his father as the man pace's before him. Swallowing the questions on his tongue, he remains silent. Having been through this before Taehyung knew it was best if he waited it out. But just like every other time questions began to form one after another. 

'What's wrong? What's happening? Why are you angry? Did I do something? Are your friends coming over? Did you get fired? Did I forget to do something?' 

"Taehyung."

Quickly glancing up Taehyung refuses to say anything as he silently peers at his father. Hands lacing together he tries his best not to flinch and tremble as his father approaches him. He fails. As hands grip his shoulders he stares into dull green eyes. Taking in the eye bags, growing facial hair and disheveled hair he wishes he could do something to help his father. Anything to relieve him of the stress of working two jobs and having to take care of him. Wondering if he could take a job without his father knowing Taehyung brushes the idea away when he remembers that his father had been angry the last time he had asked. He couldn't imagine how he would react if he ever did find out. Realizing that he hadn't answered back, Taehyung quickly gets out a small, "Yes, appa."

Seeing a brief smile Taehyugn returns one. His eyes brightening for a moment. Hope growing that maybe he had misread his father who now looked more awake and slightly relieved.

"I'm going to be talking to a few investors tomorrow. I need you to find somewhere to go for the night. Do you understand?"

Smile wavering Taehyung nods. When his father dismisses him he slowly makes his way back to bed. Once he's settled down again, Taehyung can only hope that the weather tomorrow won't be as bad as tonight. 'Tomorrow will be better. Tomorrow will be better.'

Having gotten up a bit earlier than usual, Taehyung is quick to make his two sandwiches. One for today and one for the next day. Just as he was finished filling his water bottle he's quick to grab his bag with his homework and change of clothes. Closing the door behind him, he makes his way to the academy. His eyes heavy and his back aching. Tugging at his sweater he pulls his hood up, his ears now protected by the harsh winds in late September. Just as he's crossing the road, Taehyung smiles when he sees Bogum waiting for him where they had parted yesterday. Quickly running into open arms Taehyung let's out a laugh when he feels a light squeeze. Moving back Taehyung smiles brightly as he lets himself be led through the school's gates. The arm wrapped around him providing him more warmth. Letting out a small sigh, Taehyung misses the fond look in Bogum's eyes and remains unaware of the woman staring at him not too far away.

Her eyes wide, her lips parted and her face pale. As her hands tremble she staggers back, trembling she tightly holds on to her stepson's arm. His wide brown eyes grounding her. Shaking her head, she quickly reassures him she's fine, but she isn't. Slowly getting back into her husband's car she can't help but wonder if her guilt was making her imagine the child she had left behind. 'No, it isn't him.'

---

Leg bouncing Jimin groans as he eyes the clock on the wall. Ignoring the glare from his teacher he can't help but wish for time to go by faster. When he had come to school Jimin had hoped he'd have more than two classes with his mate, but it seemed like even the school decided to limit the amount of time he would be able to spend with him. Fingers drumming against the table he doesn't check his phone when he feels it vibrate, instead, his gaze remains focused on the minute hand moving. Swallowing a growl he ignores the looks aimed his way. 'Why is it taking so long?'

He wanted to see Taehyung. Wanted to be able to talk to his mate. When the bell finally goes off he's the first one out the door, his teacher's words fading away as he makes his way to the cafeteria. While a part of him was upset that his schedule didn't line up with Taehyung, Jimin couldn't help but feel thankful for the two breaks Seoul Academy gave. Quickly getting in line, Jimin can't help but glance around the cafeteria. When he sees Taehyung sitting in the same spot he was in yesterday he feels relieved. After quickly grabbing a meal and paying he makes his way over. His smile a bit smug when he remembers that Bogum didn't have the first break when they did. Sitting down he lets his eyes land on his mate. 

Like yesterday Jimin found himself breathless. When green eyes look up he's quick to greet him hearing the small reply in return he feels an excited laugh bubbling in the back of his throat. Just as he's about to ask Taehyung a question he turns around when another tray is set on the table. Seeing Hoseok he can't help but let out a groan. Eyes glancing around the cafeteria he raises an eyebrow when he sees everyone else in their usual spot. Just as he's about to look away Namjoon's narrowed eyes on his mate has him wondering what's wrong. Deciding he'd talk to his hyung later he faces the red-haired male before him. 

Grin wide Hoseok can't help but grin wider. As his eyes take in Jimin's mate he feels relieved and happy for the alpha. Scooting closer to Taehyung he extends his hand his voice bright, "Hi! I'm Hoseok, but you can call me Hobi or hyung. Hyung's good."

Eyes lowering to the table Taehyung briefly shakes Hoseok's hand. His heart racing, gripping tightly onto his sandwich he doesn't look up. His father's voice, once more loud and clear in his mind. Don't get to close to anyone Taehyung. In the end, they'll just leave.

Frowning Jimin takes a quick glance at Hoseok. Seeing the concerned look he turns once more towards his mate. Slowly moving closer his voice is soft, "Taehyung?"

At the sound of Jimin's voice, Taehyung finds himself calming down just a bit. Biting his lower lip he looks up, his voice unlike how he felt calm, "Yes, Jimin?"

With the question on the tip of his tongue, he hesitates. Stealing a glance at Hoseok just when he's about to start a conversation the bell rings. Feeling a brief flicker of anger he sighs as he pushes himself away from the table. Following after Taehyung, he glances to his left when he feels a light touch to his arm. WHen Hoseok mouths, Is he okay? 

Jimin finds himself unable to answer, shrugging when he looks back towards his mate he passes his tray to Hoseok. Ignoring his indignant yell Jimin runs after Taehyung when he passes through the door. 'Why are you so close but so far away?'

Unlike before he doesn't feel annoyed, instead, as he watches Taehyung throughout their class he remains silent. His eyes peering at his mate as he takes notes. Having seen a set of clothes and another sandwich in his bag he feels the need to ask why he had a set of clothes. It's only when he remembers that they have gym that he believes he found an answer, but remembering the set of clothes the school provided for it he was confused once more. Running a hand through his hair his blue eyes remained focus on his mate who from time to time who glance at him. His eyes at times narrowed while at other times showed nothing but confusion and curiosity.

When the bell rings Jimin waits until Taehyung had left class. Sighing he hopes that their interaction would soon change, he wanted to be able to start a relationship with his mate. But with Taehyung barley responding to him and reacting Jimin didn't know what to do. Or what to say. The question if Taehyung felt anything when around him nagging. Checking his phone he apologizes to Hoseok for having run off earlier. When he reads the message sent back he's relieved when his hyung seems to not have taken his behavior badly. Instead, the question about whether his mate was alright had his heart filling with warmth. Replying back that he wasn't too sure but Hoseok's encouraging words has him moving to his next class. His wolf repeating his mate's name over and over. 

'Taehyung, Taehyung, Taehyung.'

---

Tugging down Bogum's shirt, Taehyung frowns as he laces up his shoes. Being the last in the changing room he lets himself let out a small sigh. 'I can do this. I can do this. I'll stay as long as the school team does and find somewhere to go from there.'

Following after his classmates Taehyung's eyes land on Jimin not too far away. Seeing him talking to a few of their classmates he can't help but wonder why Jimin had been staring at him. Taehyung knew that Jimin was a shapeshifter. Had seen the way his eyes had briefly changed colors the other day and had heard about how Jimin seemed to be one of the main head alphas in school. The questions if he had somehow offended Jimin rising. ALong with the urge to apologize for having forgotten his manners the other day when Bogum had arrived during the second break they were given. At the thought of Bogum, Taehyung frowns. Remembering seeing Jimin sitting with another group of their peers he had felt something, but without knowing what it was he had remained confused.

As his eyes take in Jimin now, Taehyung feels himself flush when he sees Jimin's muscles flexing as he pulls one of their classmates into a headlock. Looking away he touches his ears, feeling them burning he quickly walks away. 'What is this feeling?'

At the whistle being blown, Taehyung prays to the gods that their coach would have mercy today and wouldn't make them run laps. Having finished running the five laps around the track, Taehyung stumbles as he begins to slow down. Wiping at the sweat trailing down his face, he bends over, his hands coming to press against his knees as he tries to catch his breath. Just as he's about to lower himself to the ground the press of a hand on his lower back has him stiffening. 

"You shouldn't do that."

Breathing in he glances up. Only to choke on his spit when he sees Jimin isn't wearing a shirt. 'When did he take it off?'

Eyes widening Jimin rubs one hand along his mates back, while the other clutches onto his arm. When Taehyung manages to catch his breath, Jimin helps him to his feet. As his eyes take in his flushed face and the strong scent of strawberries and sweat he bites the inside of his cheek. 'Your scent is going to drive me crazy, Taehyung.'

Hearing a few of his classmates laughing Jimin glances away. His eyes landing on the few pushing and taunting one another as they try to outdo one another. Seeing Jimin looking away Taehyung lets his eyes rake over the alpha. As his eyes follow the hand holding his arm his eyes take in the biceps in Jimin's arms, and the abs on display. When he sees a tattoo under the right side of Jimin's pecs he's curious. His mind itching to know if it would feel different as he reaches a hand out. When his fingers touch the black ink he quickly pulls away when Jimin turns to him wide blue eyes glowing. Taking a few steps away he about whimpers when the grip around his arm tightens. Eyes flickering to the ground he mutters a quick apology and that he wouldn't do it again. 

Eyes widening Jimin begins to shake his head. "No, no, no. It's okay, you just startled me."

At the unsure look in his mate's eyes, he let's go of his arm. Cocking his head to the side, Jimin gives him a small smile. Trying to stay calm and reign in his wolf at the small time he says, "You can touch it if you want."

When Taehyung bites his lower lip, Jimin's eyes follow. It's only when he sees Taehyung once more reaching out that his eyes follow. At the touch of his mate, he once more hears his wolf's pleased growl and feels the spark running along his body. Letting out a quiet sigh, his shoulders relax, eyes darkening Jimin moves a bit closer. 

"Did it hurt?"

Eyes focused on the fingers tracing his tattoo his voice is deeper, almost sensual when he replies, "No, it just tingled a bit."

Pulling his hand back, Taehyung struggles to say anything after. It's only when he remembers that he hadn't apologized that his eyes widen and his words stumble over one another, "O-oh, I um...I'm sorry about yesterday. I was happy seeing Bogum and I forgot my manners. I didn't mean to be rude. Oh, and today. I'm sorry for not --about the way I behaved I just. I don't know how to t-talk to someone I don't know. I'm sorry."

Blue eyes widen when Taehyung bows, Jimin's mouth drops, his mind trying to absorb what his mate had just said. Letting out a short laugh, Jimin grins. Seeing Taehyung blush he takes a step closer, his heart filling with fondness. Voice light, Jimin's eyes become moon crescents. 

"It's fine Taehyung, I understand. If..."

FWEET!

"Alright! That's it for today time to hit the showers!!"

---

Having gotten out of practice late, Jimin let's out a groan at the tension in his shoulders. Rubbing his hand along his arm, he winces at the sore feeling. Pulling out the car keys he throws his bag into the back of his car. Inserting the key, he frowns at the time. 'Mom's going to kill me.'

Quickly pulling out of the lot just as he's driving down the road his eyes flicker down the street. As he turns around the block his hand hovers of the dial to turn the volume up for the radio. Seeing Taehyung walking out so late Jimin frowns. 'Why isn't he home?'

Slowly down he lowers the window, "Taehyung!"

Seeing Taehyung jump and look around he swallows a laugh. As Taehyung comes to his car, Jimin frowns when he sees a few people walking by. As their eyes linger on them his eyes narrow.  "What are you doing out so late?"

"I-um...forgot my key at home and well my dad is out on a business trip."

"Are you going to a relative's. I'll drop you off."

When Taehyung shakes his head, Jimin frowns. "I...I don't have anyone else but my dad. It's just us."

Heartbreaking, Jimin his lips. 'My poor baby.'

When he remembers about the spare room they have Jimin smiles. "Why don't you come with me? We have a guest room at home."

"No, I don't want to be a bother. I'll be fine."

Feeling himself beginning to grow uneasy at the thought of Taehyung sleeping outside or somewhere else, Jimin unclicks his seat belt. Getting out of his car he makes his way over to the passenger side. At the confused look in Taehyung's eyes, he refuses to smile. He wasn't about to let Taehyung stay out late on the street. No matter how cute he was looking at him. Opening the door his voice doesn't give room for an argument, "Get in the car Taehyung."

It's only when Taehyung is in and buckled in that Jimin closes the door. Eyes narrowing on the men watching them from the corner of the street he's quick to get in and make his way home. When he pulls into the driveway he can tell Taehyung is nervous. He doesn't need to breathe in his scent when he can see it. Sending Taehyung a reassuring smile, he quickly opens the door. Ushering his mate in when the door is open he's relieved when they both are out of the cold night. Slipping off his shoes he pulls Taehyung behind him. His socked feet padding against wood. 

"Eomma!"

"In here."

Making his way into the kitchen Jimin smiles when his mother turns to greet him, rushing into her arms he gives her a quick hug. Before he's pulling back and moving to his father. Seeing Taehyung still at the threshold he reaches for him. 

"Mom, dad this is Taehyung. He's my...friend. He kind of needs a place to stay."

Immediately his mother is reassuring his Taehyung, her eyes gentle and her hands pulling him into a hug. As she asks him questions about his day and whether he's allergic to anything Jimin remains quiet. His eyes lingering on Taehyung and they remain there all throughout dinner. It's only when they have to go to bed that Taehyung puts up a struggle. His refusal to wear any of his clothes strong. His belief that he was already intruding and that he and his family had already done enough angering him. He wanted to help, wanted to provide for him. But with Taehyung being so stubborn Jimin finds himself ready to tear out his hair. It's only when his mother manages to convince Taehyung that his mate takes his clothes. Seeing Taehyung in them had Jimin feeling excited and thinking that perhaps seeing his mate in them wouldn't be a good thing. His wolf already had him thinking about his mate constantly now with the image of Taehyung in his clothes he doubted he'd get any peace and quiet.

Eyes flickering to his mate, Jimin let's out a small sound. His lips pursed and his head cocked to the side as he took in Taehyung. Taking a step towards the sleeping male he can't help but wonder why Taehyung liked sleeping at the corner of the bed towards the head of the board. He didn't see the appeal, eyebrow cocking the thought that maybe Taehyung moved around too much in his sleep came. Shaking his head, Jimin makes his way back to his own room. Just as he's about to close the guest bedroom door he hesitates, a sudden longing forming. When Taehyung mumbles in his sleep, Jimin smiles. 

'Goodnight Taehyung.'

Closing the door shut Jimin makes his way back to bed.