"TaeJoon Hyung" the older of the two turned frozen Kookie around. JungKook had to be careful not to drop his jaw as he gaze at the beauty he haven't laid eyes on for years. Since their break up TaeJoon disappeared like a bubble. No news, no trace. Not that JungKook immediately looked for him. JungKook thought he was mad but now he just feel scared speechless. He feels weak and embarrassed. Now that his mind is clear of delusions that he love TaeJoon, JungKook could remember all the awful things his friends pointed out about their relationship. Things that he didn't see. Like how TaeJoon would act like a friend when they are out and openly flirt with others. How TaeJoon would get a little physical in indoor arguments. The older would push him, grip too tight, once he even pulled JungKook's hair. TaeJoon treated him like a in bed. Seldom appreciates JungKook's efforts. TaeJoon used 'sorry ' too much and gave no feeling in every 'I love you' s. This things the younger overlooked but now crushed his every cell. Things he never did to Jin because he truly care for his princess.

 SeokJin,  if only he was around JungKook knew it would be a different scene.

 He heard the door swing open then the voice he hopes isn't just in his wishful thoughts resounded 

"JungKook " 

The younger's eyes darted at the door, there stood his  princess. Jin's brows were furrowed as he found JungKook in a seemingly compromising position with a stranger 

"Hyung" JungKook hardly let out, choking in muffled cries.

"My friend here is just getting a little emotional. We haven't seen each other for a long time" TaeJoon pulled JungKook in a single arm hug as he  beamed brightly, acting too chummy even with a quivering boy beside him. To be honest SeokJin could have easily fallen for the stranger's act with that pretty smile. but his concern is JungKook and if the younger was uncomfortable then he must get away from him.

"Take your hands off him" Seokjin's frown lines got more prominent and he sounded like an edgy beast about to go berserk.

"Dude no need to be so uptight nothing is going on here, I was just greeting him" TaeJoon pulled him tighter, trying to get him to act but JungKook was too in shock, all he could notice was the painful grip his ex has on his arm. He winced but didn't have enough strength to pull away.

"Take your hands off my boyfriend" Jin spat in gritted teeth as he stride towards the two. TaeJoon let go of the younger as he heard the declaration. He raised his hand as if to surrender.

"I see, boyfriend.  Kookie didn't tell me" TaeJoon threw a malicious glance at JungKook, it was edging to annoyance. No matter how he tried to be subtle, Jin noticed and didn't let it pass. SeokJin pulled JungKook to wrap his arms around the younger. JungKook immediately buried his face to the older's neck. That scent, Seokjin's scent help comfort him. In his protective stance, Jin glared at the other and hissed. 

"We don't need any audience"

"OK, sorry bro. See you later Kookie " TaeJoon's tone was friendly, too friendly. And the shiver Jin  felt JungKook let out tells him the stranger can't be trusted..TaeJoon left them still clinging onto each other. JungKook was gripping too tight at the older's shirt in a mixture of anxiety  and embarrassment. He didn't want to be caught that weak, now he doesn't know how to face Jin. He acted too tough the last time they talked, now SeokJin is hushing him like a baby.  He burrowed his face on Jin's shirt until he calmed and made sure he wouldn't tear up. He pulled away reluctantly, avoiding the other's questioning, caring gaze. He wanted to back away completely but Jin grabbed his wrist just tight enough to stop him. 

"Who was that? What did he do to you? Did he hurt you?"

JungKook just looked down, biting his lips. Now this is a new fragile Kookie. He had seen him cry, get lost in painful memories, hell he inflicted horror to this boy and yet nothing could rival how weak he looked at the moment. 

"JungKook did he --" his words were cut off by the younger's hand covering his mouth

"Please, I can't... just don't " 

SeokJin waited before putting his own hand over the younger's own and and gently take it off his mouth. Jin sighed and carefully pushed the stray locks of raven hair back so he could place  a kiss on the younger's forehead. That seemed to have done the trick. JungKook's eyes widened and he forgot about tearing up, instead he searched for the other's eyes. Minutes passed that he was just looking at the older's honest orbs, minutes of silence. Jin only returned a kind smile that made the other look down.

"You shouldn't have done that" JungKook muttered.

"I'm sorry I was just-"

"You should go"

"Uh... okay..." Jin stood up and dusted himself for his leave but remembered his purpose "...ah actually I was here to err... invite you. On Friday, my apartment nothing fancy. I'll just cook some favorites because it's umh..."

"Your birthday" JungKook finished earning a slight smile from Jin.

"Yeah, so if you want to come. TaeHyung and JiMin too, if they are up for it. I know this is sudden and weird but it's my special day and I'd appreciate it if you come but if you don't want to it's really okay. Not that I don't want you to come. I want you to go but you know I know you are kinda busy and it might seem awkward but..." he was nervously mumbling and thankfully the other cut him off 

"Okay Hyung"

"Uh yeah so that. Umh. Bye. See you...whenever" Jin bid as he walked away scratching his nape. How awkward could he be just right after playing hero? Epic fail.

JungKook wanted to talk more but he is still a bit shaky from earlier encounter with TaeJoon and he can't have Jin calming him. He can't depend on the older's warmth anymore. Jin isn't his. But he decided he'll go to Seokjin's birthday even just to clear things out about their boundaries. He is confused to what he wants. He love Jin, he wants him to stay but then he shouldn't. He love Jin so he should let go. He shook his head not wanting to think of more complications. 

★★★

JiMin was starting to fret. Since that 'I love you' stunt he pulled YoonGi rarely answers his text and calls. If by chance the older does answer, he'll sound really tired and uninterested. YoonGi always looked uninterested and sleepy but he does give effort to listen, not anymore though. And it scares JiMin. What if YoonGi is still mad? What if he's getting annoyed and doesn't want to see him anymore? JiMin hates 'what if's' so he called, gulping at every ring...

Hyosang isn't just a photographer, he does a little writing and a little rapping too. That's why he stayed in contact with YoonGi even after the 2jin fight broke out almost a year ago. 

YoonGi didn't trust Hyosang since the Jin incident but he still talked to him. He just started sleeping in when the two made up. With all the JinKook fiasco and Hoseok always MIA and weird he needed a breath of fresh air.  And JiMin, foolish kid and his confession. YoonGi didn't want to think about anything so he lost himself to his music. His ed up mind found aesthetic in his confusing situation  and he was able to make more melody in a day than he could ever do in months. He almost always stayed up late till his mind is too tired for coherent thoughts. YoonGi hasn't gone home for days and Hyosang is worried something is going on. Kidoh would always see him slumped on his work table, like today. 

The shoot finished quite early and he had more energy to burn so he went to his studio at his basement. Yes he have his own music studio, rich bastard as YoonGi would label him. Kidoh couldn't stop the smile blooming as he stared at the boy snoring. He has never viewed YoonGi as more than a friend before but this past few days he is getting acquainted at the pale boy's presence in his house. His smile fell a bit. No he can't get used to having the other around, because once he does he won't let go. He was reluctant but Kidoh decided to take YoonGi back to his own apartment. Before he could shake the other awake a phone ringing made him turn to the side table. 

It's YoonGi's. He didn't want to answer it but seeing how deep the other was in his slumber he decided to do him a favor. He picked it up and almost laughed at the name flashing on the screen, 'oblivious bagel' 

"YoonGi " a cute voice greeted carefully, he almost sound afraid 

"He can't answer the phone, he's busy being cute..." he said mindlessly while watching the pale boy stir then he remembered he was actually talking to a stranger "...I mean he's sleeping, any message?" 

"No, Uh Thanks" the call was ended and Kidoh just shrugged before trailing his eyes back to his companion. Knowing YoonGi wouldn't go home on his own, an idea struck him. He smiled as he approached the sleeping beauty.

☆☆☆

Sleeping beauty is too far from the beast in slumber that is Kim TaeHyung, especially if it's one of his drunk nights. With him splayed out, occupying most space in his queen size bed. Limbs thrown everywhere, mouth open with not so silent snoring. It was really ugly and his own mom snorted as he watch him  toss and turn, scratching his belly once in a while. She sighed shaking her head as she questions herself on why his son have no finesse in his sleep. She tried to shake him gently but when he almost hit her in protest she smacked him hard on the arm and yelled 

"Kim TaeHyung! " it was a surprise even for her, but she held her serious face. TaeHyung opened one eye then the other after seeing that it was his mom. He rolled over and groaned against the pillow "mom!"

"Such a brat. Now get up get your fiance on the bed or he'll be stiff."

"What?" TaeHyung opened his eyes and they landed immediately on Hoseok, seated on a chair beside the bed, slumped and quietly breathing in his sleep. Taehyung's eyes were trained on him, his peaceful sleeping face is relaxing to watch

"He took care of you all night. Even when you took a girl home from the club. He is such a kind man. I hope he doesn't hit his head and get his mind clear before the wedding. Take care of him son, he is caring and understanding. Things you wouldn't easily find" his mom said before leaving. TaeHyung just watched as Hoseok heaved in breathing. It was serene. It's like seeing a landmark for the first time. Like it's in slow mo. No, Kim TaeHyung isn't a chic flick guy but something about the quiet scene pulls his attention. He crawled over to Hoseok's side and leaned just a few inches away from the older's face. His eyes roamed Hoseok's face and then...

 TaeHyung pinched the older's nose. It took a few seconds before the other was bolting up and coughing up, choked in his own saliva. He scowled at the younger with no real venom. Come to think of it TaeHyung haven't really seen an angry, glaring Hoseok. Could he be really that kind?

"Why'd you do that?" Hoseok said with a slight pout 

"Get on the bed if you are sleeping. What kind of idiot sleeps on a chair when there is a bed?" TaeHyung retorted rolling his eyes. 

Hoseok just stared contemplating on what to do. The offer was tempting, soft bed, sleep waving at him. He knew he'll be knocked out for hours if he laid there. 

TaeHyung laid on his back again and pat the space beside him 

"Here, I won't bite. It's too early for that" the blond said, eyes closed and tone tired. 

Hoseok caved in and lay beside the younger, making sure they aren't touching in anyway. Since they kissed Hoseok started to feel something weird in his stomach every time they got in contact. He'll warm up real fast and he doesn't like it. Everything is just too fast between them and he can't risk  the possibility of losing something with this player brat. Suddenly the boy beside him spoke but in a tone he never heard come from the blond before. It was sullen, serious, concern...

"Did I really took a girl home last night?"

"Yeah" Hoseok replied quietly as he stared at the ceiling. Why is the other suddenly asking? It reminds Hoseok of the night before, how he felt absurdly repellent of the girl. How he felt a tinge of hate towards the girl he doesn't even know just because she clung onto TaeHyung too much even when Hoseok was there. And then the confusion again. Why would he feel that way? They aren't really in a relationship so why? 

"Were you hurt?" Any other time and the older would suspect the blond was teasing but the way he asked could never be of a joke but of course he can't be sloppy

"Huh?"

"You know when you see the person you like with someone else you feel this clenching in your heart and  you can't breathe"

"but I don't like you like that" Hoseok almost choke, he could never trust his tongue with lies 

"Keep denying, it won't change any fact"

Silence ensues and Hoseok didn't know how he knew but he was sure the other was still awake so he spoke his mind 

"Did you tell the person you like that you like them?" asking the question, knowing there was a third person topic felt like a punch in his chest. Maybe he does know why it hurt but he can't.  It's not like it's possible. 

"Well, we kissed, we made love. He's stupid if he doesn't get that" 

details. Hoseok tried swallowing the lump in his throat.

"But you offered me  before"

" is . Making love is different. Gosh, you people"

"Wow, you make more sense in your hung over mornings" Hoseok tried to lighten the mood 

"Shut up and sleep or I'll kick you off the bed.".now the sass is back. The spirit of alcohol must have totally left. Hoseok knew he shouldn't say anything but TaeHyung sounded really down, really giving up. So he thoughtlessly muttered words he have no idea about 

"He probably likes you back"

Then there was a loud thump that echoed in the room before a low 

"I told you to shut up" 

~~~

TaeHyung woke up at mid day, a note stuck on a glass of water atop his bed side table 

"Advil for the hang over. Just text me when you need me - Hobi " it says. TaeHyung grabbed the Med and downed it. He furrowed his brows as he plucked the note. Usually he'd throw such things away but this one(he'll later blame his hang over) he tucked behind the photos in his wallet. He doesn't know why, he just did. He got his phone out planning to bug the older into going shopping. He discovered early that Hoseok is quite easy to pull anywhere. He is so nice he couldn't reject people easily. But a text message greeted him. 

•••~•••

SeokJin has long accepted that he was born awkward but this time he could justify it. With 3 stunning guys staring you down on every side, anyone would feel fidgety. JiMin, TaeHyung and Oh Sehun cornered him in his homeroom right before the last class of the day. 

"So..." he let out, the atmosphere is too heavy it's starting to suffocate him

"Reverse it" TaeHyung said, hands folded against his chest. He is probably giving him dirty looks but he couldn't tell because of the dark sunglasses the blond was wearing.

"What?"

"Whatever you did to Kookie. You need to bring back the happy bunny, especially now." Sehun spoke looking blunt but Jin have learned by now that he just have a bad case of resting  pokerface

"What? Why? I don't suppose you all like me for him" Seokjin asked, suspicious of this convention

"I don't " TaeHyung, as expected, straight away answered 

"I feel neutral" JiMin stated drawing circles with his foot on the floor 

"I ship you" Sehun blurted out with a little pride in his tone and a threatening bloom of a smirk on his lips. Well that definitely surprised SeokJin.  Of all people to support them. 

"But disregarding that, this is important. TaeJoon is back so we need you to stay by Kookie all the time.  Who knows what that er wanna do" Sehun continued 

"TaeJoon?" SeokJin raised a brow. He thinks he heard that name before. Or is he just thinking about a possible ship name for TaeHyung and NamJoon? Bleehh, if NamJoon and TaeHyung start dating then vampires and werewolves must be real. His thoughts were interrupted by a picture shoved to  his hand 

"This one"

"Oh" Jin recognized him as the handsome man JungKook was talking to earlier 

"He is a ing devil with a pretty face and angelic smile. Equipped by superb acting. That lil' ." TaeHyung spat with every ounce of loathing one could produce.

"JungKook's ex. He is the reason why Kookie lost trust in love" JiMin explained as he gave a light squeeze on TaeHyung's shoulder, probably to calm him down a bit. The blond's shoulder visibly slackened and he leaned against JiMin a bit. 

"What? How? What happened?" Jin rapidly fired trying not to think too much of possible romantic relation between JiMin and V 

The three exchanged looks before Sehun let out a breath and spoke.

"Well... "

Tbc... but wait there's more!

~few days before TaeJoon and Kookie met, in a familiar suite NamJoon was tying his necktie with a sigh. He'd done it again. 

"Don't let Kookie attend school for a while. Heard the devil is back and I wanna hunt him down before JungKook sees him. If they see each other first we'll all get in trouble. Tell SeokJin to move fast. Have with him or something" the boy pulling up a new pair of boxers up to his waist said flatly 

"It's all for you isn't it".NamJoon snapped back 

"Obviously, you are here with me because of it" the other flatly retorted as he laid back on the soft mattress, taking his phone in his hand to start dialling 

"Doesn't your fiance satisfy you, Oh Sehun?" NamJoon bit back the trace of jealousy. Why is he even asking? He isn't even a buddy. Sehun only uses him as he pleased, doesn't matter if he wants to or not. 

"He does, so much. But you are falling for me and I hate you. I just like breaking you, kim NamJoon" the silver haired brat smirked and gave his cold stare at NamJoon 

" you".there was no bite in his retort. He doesn't hate Sehun, he can't hate him. Admittedly he had fallen deep.

"Well leave before Umin Hyung gets here" Sehun said gesturing for him to walk away

"Just because you get hurt doesn't mean you have any right to hurt others" the Butler  muttered just loud enough before closing the door. NamJoon  leaned against the other's apartment door for a few seconds. Then he heard Sehun yelling and things crashing against the other side of the door. He slides down and sat at the hallway listening to the other's outburst. He wanted to comfort him but he knew Sehun wouldn't want that. Wouldn't want him. He looked down and continued sharing the misery with the person he loves in silence. This is the only way he could be with Sehun and he is taking it even though it's killing him.

---

End of chapter....

Hello! Extra scene  for everyone! Just because people are asking where the hell  is namjoon. Now you know what keeps him preoccupied most of the time. ;)... And the media is reference on Im TaeJoon! Haha... yeah L of infinite is the face of our antagonist..  ... hope you enjoyed this chappie and I know, so little yoonmin...  I know...  sorry Maybe next time. Argh!  And I know I hurt NamJoon but sorry I could totally picture NamJoonie in angsty situations like this... hehe... comments? Suggestion? Votes? Follows? Love? Or kookie? Give me love? Lolz. Love you lots guys! Thanks for the continuous support in this fic. Without you this wouldn't go this far. I would have stopped if you weren't there cheering me up in every chapter. I love you love you love you!