Archive of Our Own

The thumping music ended, plunging the room into near silence, except for the panting of the dancers. Hoseok stared from under his eyebrows into the mirrored wall in front of him, breathing in through his nose and out through his mouth to slow his heart rate. After about ten seconds, he spun round, demeanour totally changed, his heart shaped smile all but overtaking his face.

“That was great! But it could use a little more practise. One more time, from the top.” Hoseok clapped his hands as he walked towards the stereo system, sneakers squeaking on the wooden floor. He heard the groans of the dancers behind him, so he turned and shot them a look over his shoulder. Immediately, the groans either stopped, turned into innocent whistling or were faked as groans of muscle soreness as the dancers stretched. Hoseok nodded once, cued up the music, then jogged back to his starting position. 

Thirty five minutes later, Hoseok was finally satisfied. He spun round to face the other dancers, and saw a lot of them either bent double or on the floor, eyes closed. 

“Good work everyone! At this rate, this next tour will be the best work we’ve ever done. Thank you so much for your hard work today! See you Thursday!” 

Hoseok plopped himself on the floor to start his stretching routine. There was a soft thud and he turned to see Jimin on the floor next to him, reaching over one leg to grasp his bare foot.

“You know, Hobi hyung, you really do need to get out there and get a partner. It’s high time you did.”

Hoseok copied his stretch, “I didn’t know you were so invested in my happiness, Jimin-ah. What brought this on?”

“If you got a partner, then you could stop fucking us at every practise.” Jimin said nonchalantly, a slight glare in Hoseok’s direction. 

Hoseok barked out a laugh and straightened back up. After a moment, he settled and said “I know I’m harsh, Jimin-ah, but I didn’t get to where I am, or get us to where we are, by being soft. I am where I am because I’m the best and I’m the best because of all the work I put in. I expect a lot from myself, and I expect a lot from you folks too.” Hoseok looks down guiltily, “I’m sorry that I push you all a lot, I just want us all to be the best out there.”

Now it’s Jimin’s turn to feel guilty “Hyung, that’s not - I was joking. I know you’re pushing us extra hard right now because the tour is in a month, and I know it’s a big one. It’s not every day you get to be the dance crew for Bigbang’s first tour in six years, and for you to be asked personally by Jiyong sunbaenim… I can only imagine the pressure you’re putting yourself under.” He paused whilst he stretched out his other leg, watching Hoseok cautiously. He was chewing his bottom lip, which Hoseok only did when he was stressed. When Jimin looked closer, he could see his hyung’s bottom lip was cracked and bloody in places. He sighed and pulled a tube of lip balm from the pocket of his sweats, handing it over. 

Hoseok smiled gratefully “Thanks Jimin-ah.” he applied a layer of the balm on his lips, still looking at the floor of the studio. The other members of the team started filtering out, having completed their cool downs. Hoseok sighed, handed back the lip balm and continued stretching.

“Honestly though hyung, would finding a partner be the worst idea in the world?” Jimin continued, raising his arms above his head and stretching them.

Hoseok scoffed, leaning forward between both his legs, stretching his back. “Oh yeah, fantastic idea, get a partner right before we leave for a tour of Asia for four weeks. Smart. No way that could go wrong.” 

Jimin rolled his eyes “Well, you have to do something. I was only half-joking about the fucking us comment, you tyrant.” he smiled at Hoseok fondly as he stood up “Come on, let’s go for dinner, I’m buying.”

“You’d better be, after the tyrant comment.” Hoseok extended his hand and Jimin grabbed it, pulling him up.

“Listen, it’s not my fault you’re an authoritarian with no off switch. Now do you want BBQ or not?”

“We’re going to the expensive place.” 

“I expected nothing less for the dance team dictator.”

Hoseok playfully shoved Jimin with his shoulder, and Jimin screamed dramatically, sliding down the nearest wall like he'd been shot rather than shoved. Hoseok stepped over him and walked out into the night air.  

🍭

It was 8:37pm on Taehyung’s fourth 12-hour nursing shift in a row. He just had one more day left and then three glorious days off, when he intended to leave his bedroom only in emergency situations. He couldn’t wait to be out of the hospital for an extended period of time, despite how much he loved his colleagues and, by and large, the patients he saw. 

He sighed wistfully thinking about his bed, then turned himself back to the matter at hand, literally speaking, as he was about to start stitching up an elderly lady’s hand. She had fallen in her kitchen, banged herself up pretty badly and torn open the back of her hand on the counter. Mrs Yun was somewhat of a frequent flyer in this hospital - she came in every month for blood tests and scans to make sure her various ailments weren’t causing too much trouble. She was one of Taehyung’s absolute favourite halmeonis. 

Taehyung loved dealing with the halmeonis - they were always so sweet and complementary, and they made his days go by a lot faster. He would take treating one halmeoni over a dozen other patients. If they wanted to pinch his cheeks and tell him what a handsome young man he was, then that was a price he was willing to pay. 

“Now, Mrs Yun, we need to get some sutures into your hand. I’m going to inject the surrounding area with local anaesthetic so you won’t feel a thing, though the injections might sting a little,” he smiled warmly at her, then turned to get the equipment for the procedure. “Once the anaesthetic has kicked in in around 30 minutes or so, we can get your hand stitched up, how does that sound?”

Mrs Yun chuckled drily “Ah, Nurse Kim, as long as you’re holding my hand I don’t have a care in the world.” 

Taehyung chuckled as he turned back to face Mrs Yun, pulling on fresh gloves and then cleaning the back of her hand. “I bet you say that to all the guys.” he replied, giving her hand a gentle squeeze as he pushed the needle in. 

“Just the really charming and handsome ones.” Mrs Yun winked at him. “Besides, you remind me of my first love, you know that?”

“Ah, Mrs Yun, I could say the same about you.” Taehyung winked back, and Mrs Yun giggled, slapping Taehyung lightly on his shoulder. 

“Can I just sit and watch you work for the next 30 minutes, young man?” Mrs Yun grabbed her injured hand delicately.

“Ah, I’m afraid not, I have other patients that need my attention in the meantime.”

Mrs Yun gasped and clutched at her chest in mock horror “You mean I’m not your only girl?” she turned in her seat, dejected. 

Taehyung huffed out a laugh “Maybe not my only girl, but you are my best girl.” 

Mrs Yun smiled again at this, sniggering to herself as she stood. “I’ll be out in the waiting room, Nurse Kim. Don’t miss me too much.” She wiggled the fingers on her good hand as she walked back to the waiting room. Taehyung chuckled, disposed of the needle in the sharps bin and then began to sterilise the area before the next patient came in. He looked at the clock again. Forty five minutes til his shift ended and he got to go live out his best hermit life. 

The forty five minutes pass uneventfully. Mrs Yun ended up being Taehyung’s last patient of the night before he clocked out and drove himself home. Despite it being almost 10pm and early April, Taehyung put on his Girl Groups Summer Jams playlist and spent the drive home scream-singing along to some Sistar. According to Taehyung, Shake It was an all-year-round classic, thank you very much. 

He pulled into the parking lot of his apartment building, parked in his spot and began the journey up to his apartment. The weariness was setting in now that he didn’t have Hyolyn’s powerhouse vocals surrounding him, and it became an effort to put one foot in front of the other. He all but fell into the elevator and pushed the button for his floor. The soothing hum of the elevator almost lulled him to sleep on his feet, but the soft chime informed him that he had arrived at his floor. Not much further he told himself. He ambled down the hallway until he reached room 931, entered the door code and slumped through the door. 

“M’back.” Taehyung mumbled whilst kicking his shoes off. He was so tired he almost tripped over his own feet. He cursed at his feet and shuffled towards the living area. He could smell food and knew his best friend and roommate had made dinner for them both, and by the smell of it, it was his favourite, jjajangmyeon. 

Taehyung swung open the door to the open plan living room/kitchen area and saw his best friend and roommate Jeongguk putting the finishing touches to their dinner. Jeongguk looked up at the noise and positively beamed at Taehyung.

“Taehyungie hyung, my sweetest most favourite hyung and long time best friend, best roommate I’ve ever had, most cherished an-”

“What do you want this time?” Taehyung interrupted as he slumped into one of the stools at the breakfast counter. He placed his forehead on the counter and closed his eyes, not really ready for whatever his roommate was going to ask of him.

Jeongguk gasped dramatically “What makes you think that I want something from you? Can a man not just cook his best friend his favourite post-shift dinner without wanting something?”

“Historically, no.”

“...Well, now that you mention it…” Jeongguk placed a bowl next to Taehyung’s head and picked his head up off the counter, as well as picking up one of his arms to rest his head on “... Yoongi hyung got us VIP tickets to that club in Itaewon, Glasshouse. Tomorrow night. He actually got enough tickets for all of us-”

Taehyung interrupted with a long, drawn out groan.

“Before you completely shut down the idea!” Jeongguk shouts over the moaning, shoving a hand over Taehyung’s mouth to quiet the noise. “Before you shut down the idea, I have to tell you something.” Jeongguk finished seriously, all mirth drained from his face as he withdrew his hand from Taehyung’s mouth. 

Taehyung stared at him cautiously with narrowed eyes, which let Jeongguk know that he was on thin ice. “Continue,” he said, dipping his chopsticks into his bowl of jjajangmyeon. 

Jeongguk paused, sucked in a breath and finished “I really want to go, hyung. Pleeeease?”

Taehyung made a farting noise with his mouth “Jeongguk, I get like six days off a month, what makes you think I want to spend one of them pressed up against a bunch of sweaty strangers? Moreover, why do you want that? You’re an introvert.”

Jeongguk made a bunch of non-commital noises whilst gesturing broadly. “Think about it, hyung. It’s been such a long time since all of us have been out together. Please hyung. I’ll let you invoke Number Three on the Roommate Agreement whenever you want!”

Taehyung narrowed his eyes again. “Number Three?”

“Number Three” Jeongguk nodded, taking a big mouthful of jjajangmyeon, not breaking eye contact with Taehyung the whole time as he slurped his noodles seriously. 

Taehyung considered his options. “Fine. I get to invoke Number Three on the Roommate Agreement AND Subsection 3 Article 9 of Number Seven. And you’re making breakfast the next morning.” Taehyung finalised, slurping his noodles with a content look on his face. 

Jeongguk huffed “FINE. Fine. Number Three and Subsection 3 Article 9 of Number Seven. And I’ll make breakfast the next day.”

“There had better be pancakes.”

“There will be.”

“And apple juice. You know how much I love apple juice”

“I already have it in the fridge.”

“Then you have yourself a deal, Mr Jeon.” Taehyung extended his arm across the counter to shake hands with his roommate. “Also I’m borrowing your leather pants.”

“Goddamn it, I was gonna wear those.”

🍭

“Jiminie! Get the whole crew together. I’m taking everyone out after practise tomorrow.” Hoseok breezed into the room, his black Dior trench coat swishing behind him dramatically. The Dior trench coat was over a neon yellow Nike Stussy sweat set, a grey headband pushing up his hair, and some wayfarer glasses completing the look. Hoseok was always dressed immaculately; even in his dance gear, he looked like he’d just stepped off a runway. He could - and often did - wear the most outlandish and garish outfits, but his sheer charisma allowed him to carry them off as if it was nothing out of the ordinary. It just added to the air of class about him. He often came off as cold and aloof… until he opened his mouth and his not-so-inner goofball came charging out. 

Jimin almost fell over himself scrambling up to get his phone. “I’ll text the group chat immediately. This isn’t a lot of time, Hobi hyung, some of us need a warning .” He started frantically pacing around the dance studio. “God, I wonder if my usual beauty girl is available at the salon tomorrow, I’ll need a blow out at the very least and she’s the best, I don’t trust anyone else with my hair. I need to go shopping…” Still engrossed in his phone, Jimin walked out of the studio. 

Hoseok chuckled and pushed himself up off the floor. Today was audition day for new trainees in his dance academy, and they should be arriving any time now. He made his way towards the door of the brightly-lit, airy studio and as he neared the door he could hear people chattering outside the door. 

“I’m so excited we’re here to audition for the Jung Hoseok’s dance academy!” said the first voice. 

A second voice gave a high pitched squeal “Oh my god, I KNOW. It would be so slay of us to all get in together.”

“I’m here for Park Jimin and Park Jimin only,” a third voice answered. “I hope I get into his class.”

The first voice again “GIRL. Aren’t you here for Jung Hoseok? THE Jung Hoseok? He’s FLAWLESS.”

“Jung Hoseok has five dance schools and choreographs and dances for huge celebrities globally.” the second voice came again.

“I heard his legs are insured for five billion won!”

“I heard he did dance commercials… in Japan!”

“His favourite Disney movie is Inside Out.”

“He met Gong Yoo on a plane once-”

“-and he told him he was pretty”

“One time, he cussed someone out to protect Park Jimin… it was awesome.”

Hoseok clapped a hand over his mouth to muffle the laughter that threatened to spill between his fingers. All of those anecdotes were at least half true, and he enjoyed that he was the topic of gossip. He made a mental note to workshop some new gossip with Jimin to spread around the new trainees. 

He composed himself and pulled open the door. All three teenagers waiting in the corridor jumped suddenly, one of them let out a squeak not unlike that of a chipmunk. 

Hoseok gave his most welcoming heart-shaped smile. “You folks are early. I love that. Come in, find a spot in front of the mirror wall and start your warm ups. I need to check your ID, names, preferred names and pronouns too please.” Hoseok stepped to the side to allow the teenagers through the door. All three were blushing. He chuckled to himself and went to get his copies of the paperwork to check with the hopeful trainees. 

Around ten minutes later, only looking slightly frazzled, Jimin sauntered back into the studio, eyes still glued to his phone. “Where are we even going tomorrow, Hobi hyung?” he said, sounding exasperated. 

“Glasshouse, in Itaewon” Hoseok replied without looking up from his paperwork. The room had filled with more teenagers in the ten minutes, the original three crowded together by the mirror, watching the exchange like a tennis match. 

Jimin looked up from his phone for the first time in a while, eyes wide, jaw slightly open. “Hobi hyung, the VIP list for that club is months long, you can’t just oh you bought it out for the night didn’t you?”

“I bought it out for the night, yes.” Hoseok also looked up, a simple nod accompanying his affirmation “Gave some tickets to Yoongi hyung too.”

Jimin scoffed at this “Oh sure, give the introverted cat boy VIP tickets to a nightclub, I’m sure he’ll love it.”

“Actually, he was pretty keen to bring all his hospital friends out, plus some sports physio guy he knows.” Hoseok shrugs. “If you think about it, it makes sense - we’ve been friends with hyung for years now and never met his friends. Besides,” Hoseok stood up, setting the clipboard down on the table he had just been sitting on “I felt like spreading the love around.”

“You felt like showing off, more like”

“Potayto, potahto.” Hoseok turned to the teenagers “Okay! I asked you all to learn a hip hop routine and a contemporary piece for your auditions here today. It will be a group audition. Jiminie and I will be watching you all and will compare notes at the end. Once you’ve performed both pieces, you are free to go up to the cafeteria for refreshments whilst we deliberate. We usually get a pretty good sense just from the performance, but there will be an interview portion too. You’ll be called alphabetically by surname.” He paused and took in the nervous faces of the teenagers “We will be in touch by next week to let you know whether you get a place or not. Good luck, folks!” Hoseok smiled a warm, genuine smile and cued the first track. The floor vibrated from the bass of the music that thumped through the speakers. 

“Put your phone away, Jiminie. Relax, I already called ahead at all your favourite boutiques and had them stay open late for us; I’m taking you on a shopping spree tonight. Somin at Tiffany said they have some new earrings and rings put aside for you, and I’ve spoken to Iseul at Dior who has the new collection on standby.” Hoseok said all of this out of the side of his mouth, not taking his eyes off the hopefuls in the room. He could feel Jimin’s stare boring into the side of his head. He didn’t have to look at Jimin to know he’d gone wide eyed. “Focus on the trainees, Jiminie.” He felt rather than saw Jimin snap his head towards the room. 

“Hyung, that’s too much. You can’t-”

“Ah but I can. What, you really think I’d invite you to a club last-minute and then let you panic? This is the least I can do, Jiminah. I’m also paying for everything and no you can’t argue okay watch the dancers love you!” He made a kissy face at Jimin briefly, then turned back to the dancers.

Jimin absolutely did not know what to say. His mouth opened and closed repeatedly and the merest strangled whine left his mouth. 

Hoseok just brought his arm round Jimin’s shoulder and squeezed. “You’re never going to get used to the fact that I’m a literal billionaire, are you?”

🍭

The April air was warm without being cloying, and there was a buzz in the air that made the whole evening feel like static electricity. Hoseok, Jimin and the rest of the dance crew walked up to the club, bypassing the line and walking straight to the VIP entrance. They looked every inch like the celebrities they were; Jimin in full Dior, Hoseok in full Saint Laurent. Jimin with half slicked back honey blond hair and Hoseok with slicked back black hair and sunglasses. They oozed confidence and charisma, walking with their chins up, eyes forward. 

Hoseok smiled at the bouncer, who nodded back and unclipped the velvet rope for them. The whole team walked through, bowing and thanking the bouncer on the way in. 

Surprisingly, the music in Glasshouse was loud without being overwhelming, the bass not strong enough to cause problems to anyone's senses. The lights were dim, and occasionally the room plunged into near darkness that was only punctuated by strobed and coloured lights, casting the room into almost anonymity for a few seconds. 

The expansive bar was on the right of the room, with the DJ booth above the centre of the circular dance floor in the middle of the room. The VIP area was on the left, a small black staircase led up to the area with its own smaller, private bar. Luxurious black leather couches with tables in the middle served as the booths. As the team made their way up the staircase, Hoseok scoped out the VIP area. No sign of Yoongi yet, so he settled in the biggest booth to accommodate the entire team. As soon as his team was seated, he went to the bar to open a tab and get a few bottles of champagne. 

“Jimin-ah!” Jimin’s head whipped round at the familiar voice. He beamed when he saw Yoongi and who he presumed were his friends following behind him. 

“Yoongi hyungie!” Jimin pushed himself off the leather couch, pulling his skirt down slightly as he stood up. He heard a sharp intake of breath from somewhere behind Yoongi, followed almost immediately with an ow, fuck! and smirked slightly, filing that information away for later as he slid his way over to the new group, like mist over water. “So good to see you! Who are your friends?” Jimin embraced Yoongi, much to Yoongi’s apparent chagrin, although a small smile pulled at the corners of his mouth.

Yoongi pulled back and turned slightly, one arm outstretched, one still wrapped around Jimin’s waist. He gestured, drink in hand, to the people behind him one at a time, who waved back in turn. “This is Namjoon, my beloved boyfriend. Behind him is Jin hyung and his husband Jaehwan hyung-”

The Jaehwan hyung in question made a loud whistling noise and unabashedly checked Jimin out. “Well aren’t you the prettiest belle at the ball?” he said, taking Jimin’s hand and kissing the back, causing Jimin to giggle impishly. Jin made an affronted noise and Jaehwan drew himself back “Oh relax grandpa, if I didn’t think you were the most beautiful thing in creation, I wouldn’t have put a ring on it.”

“Who are you calling grandpa, you’re older than I am,” Jin sulked, causing Jaehwan to wrap his arms around Jin’s neck and plant a huge, wet kiss on his cheek, which in turn made Jin giggle despite his petulant anger.

“… anyway” Yoongi continued “This is Taehyung, and the one gawking next to him is Jeongguk.”

Jimin paused for a moment, then wiggled out of Yoongi’s arm and strutted his way over to Jeongguk, chin tilted upwards. He saw Jeongguk grab nervously at Taehyung’s sleeve and Jimin’s mouth pulled into a mischievous yet charming smile. He stopped in front of them both, looked Jeongguk up and down and said “You know, my lipstick. It’s new. It’s supposed to be kiss proof. Wanna help me test it out?”

Jeongguk gripped Taehyung’s sleeve tighter and leaned towards him a little, never breaking eye contact with Jimin. “Taehyungie hyung, is he talking to me? I can’t feel my… Anything. I can’t tell.”

Jimin giggled “I like pancakes with fresh fruit and coffee”

Jeongguk seemed to take a while to process this information. “… what?”

“For breakfast. Just so you know.”

At that, Jeongguk just made a strangled noise in the back of his throat whilst desperately pulling on Taehyung’s sleeve. Eventually, Taehyung pried Jeongguk’s hand away, despite Jeongguk’s desperate pleas.

“Oh, you’re gonna be fun, I like you already.” Jimin turned his attention to Taehyung, taking Jeongguk’s hand out of Taehyung’s. “If he doesn’t come home tonight, he’s with me.” He pulled a business card out of god-knows-where and slipped it into Taehyung’s pocket “Here’s my number, in case you get worried about him.” Jimin winked at Taehyung and pulled a gawking Jeongguk towards the dance floor.

“Wow. That was pretty incredible to watch” Jin mused. “I’m not sure even I’d have stood a chance against him”

Yoongi just shrugged his shoulders. “Once you’ve known Jimin for long enough, nothing surprises you any more.” He turned to the booth and realised he didn’t know any of the dancers well enough to sit at their table, so he motioned for them to find another booth. It didn’t take long, as with Hoseok buying out the club for the evening, the VIP area wasn’t overly crowded.

They all sat down at a fairly large, very plush booth where they could clearly see the dance floor. They could see Jimin and Jeongguk, Jimin dancing ever closer to Jeongguk who looked like he was undecided between passing out and dancing back. The middle ground, it seemed, was having his hands on Jimin’s waist and trying to hold on for dear life.

“10,000 won says that they leave together” Namjoon says, watching the couple.

“A further 10,000 won says that it won’t even be ten minutes before Jimin makes a move.” Yoongi adds.

“I’m gonna surprise you all and back my Jeonggukkie, 10,000 won says he’s the one to make the first move.” said Taehyung confidently. The rest of the table scoffed, and various other betting scenarios unfolded as they lost track of how much money was currently riding on the two on the dance floor. Taehyung slid out of the booth without saying anything, pointing a thumb over his shoulder toward the bathroom. Jin and Jaehwan raised their drinks to him in acknowledgement.

“Oh my god, Yoonie! ” a voice came from slightly behind the booth “ Finally, I found you!”

Yoongi spun around in his seat and met Hoseok’s eyes. “Hobah! Thank god, I was wondering when we’d find you!” He stood up and allowed himself to be pulled into his second embrace of the evening. As he pulled away, he noticed the bottle of champagne in Hoseok’s hand as the other stayed draped around his shoulder. “Champagne? For us? You shouldn’t have.”

Hoseok let out a laugh as bright as sunshine and placed the bottle on the table, waving at the nearest waiter walking past. “Can we please have eight glasses? And two more bottles of champagne. Put it on my tab. Jung Hoseok, that’s right. Thank you so much.” Hoseok pulled out a few 50,000 won notes and tucked them in the waiter’s pocket. The waiter nodded and bowed before scurrying away. Hoseok smiled and faced the group again.

“That was hot.” said Jin and Jaehwan in unison, then high fived each other and bumped noses.

“You get used to it after a while.” Yoongi said, arm still wrapped around Hoseok’s waist as he made the introductions again. “Hobah, this is Namjoon, the light of my life, Jin, Jaehwan, Jeongguk has been taken by Jimin already and… wait, where's Taehyung?”

“Bathroom.” Jin and Jaehwan chorused, then “Jinx. JINX! JINX!!”

“Jinx. Now neither of you can speak” said Namjoon, which caused looks of betrayal from Jin and Jaehwan, whilst Namjoon sipped his drink and Yoongi laughed whilst sitting down next to his boyfriend. The waiter appeared, set down their glasses and champagne in ice buckets, bowed again and left.

Hoseok slid into the booth next to Yoongi and began an easy conversation with Namjoon whilst pouring all of them champagne, ignoring the jinxed couple, which only served to frustrate them even more. They began to prod and poke at Namjoon, tickling him anywhere they could reach.

“You know, ahh , it’s - STOP - it’s really hard to hold a conversation like this.” Namjoon giggled despite himself. This only caused the tickling onslaught to worsen. “S…o-oh, Hoseok-ssi, te-tell me about yourselfffff. I’ve - oh my god STOP - I’ve heard a lot about you from Yoongi hyunGOD DAMN IT STOP.” Namjoon tried to writhe out of the way of their fingers to no avail.

Hoseok suppressed a giggle “How old are you?”

“94 line.”

“Oh, we’re the same age, no need to speak formally Namjoon-ah.” He paused to take a sip of his champagne. “Well, I started dancing when I was young, like maybe six or seven. Enrolled in a dance school at 10, then got noticed by a few advertising companies, made a few commercials for dance schools for kids, which were shown around Japan mostly. As I got better I got picked up by a better school, then I started getting noticed by dance squads and joined a pretty famous one. A few times we were asked to be backing dancers for various artists. Time passed, I opened my own dance school and got picked up by a modelling agency for more commercials and endorsements, as well as being international spokesperson for a few brands. Along the way, I met Jiminie and made him the lead dancer of my first dance school.” He paused again to take another drink, noticing all eyes on him except Yoongi’s, who had heard this all before. “Now, I own five dance schools, I choreograph for other artists, I lead a co-ed dance team and we dance both competitively and for musicians and the rest is…” he trailed off and waved his hand, draining the champagne in his other hand.

Three mouths were open around the table, Yoongi being the only other one to drink his champagne. Jin and Jaehwan seemed to have momentarily forgotten their assault on Namjoon.

Namjoon was the first to speak “Woah. Makes my job as a paediatrician look boring in comparison.” the tickling resumed “Fine, FINE. Kim Seokjin, Lee Jaehwan. You’re unjinxed.” Namjoon clutched at his sides.

“Thank GOD. Now, I need to get this man on the dancefloor, if you don’t mind?” Jaehwan looked at Hoseok who giggled.

“Not at all, as long as your husband is okay with it?” Hoseok looked over at Jin, who chuckled.

“Please, I’m an introvert. You’d be doing me a favour. Go keep an eye on Jimin, make sure he doesn’t eat Jeongguk alive just yet - I have money riding on him.”

Jaehwan extended his hand and took Hoseok’s in his, both of them sliding out of the booth and off towards the dance floor. They make their way over to Jimin and Jeongguk, the latter having finally snapped out of his stupor and was grinding on Jimin with as much co-ordination as he could muster. They were pressed chest to chest, forehead to forehead, Jeongguk’s hands on Jimin’s waist, Jimin’s hands linked around Jeongguk’s neck. Without warning, Jeongguk pulled Jimin in for a kiss.

“Yessss, pay up losers! I knew Gguk would come through for me.” Taehyung said as he flopped down into the booth.

Yoongi sighed in frustration “How come you and Hobah keep missing each other. I swear, you’re never in the same place at the same time.”

Taehyung shrugged, eyes catching the bottles on the table. “Whoa, where’d all this champagne come from?”

“Hoseok-ah bought it for us whilst you were in the bathroom.” Namjoon said, pouring Taehyung a glass, patting Yoongi on the head as he was currently butting Namjoon’s shoulder, not unlike a cat begging for attention.

Taehyung examined the label, got out his phone, tapped a few times then let out a long, low whistle. “Jesus christ, one of these bottles of champagne would pay my rent for two months. Just how fucking loaded is this Hoseok guy?”

“Extensively” Yoongi said without looking away from Namjoon, whose neck he was currently nestled in. “It’s best that you don’t think about it. You’ll get vertigo otherwise.”

Taehyung savoured the most expensive thing he had ever touched as he looked back out onto the dancefloor. Jimin and Jeongguk were still eating each other, and Jaehwan was dancing - badly - with someone who had his back to them who was dancing just as badly. All he could see was an all black outfit and black hair to match. The way this man was dancing without a care in the world was wildly attractive. He clearly didn’t care what people thought of him, which Taehyung could relate to.

After a few songs changed, a Sistar song came on the speakers, causing Taehyung to shriek with delight. He got to his feet so fast he bumped the table. “I have to get on the dance floor, Ggukie knows how much I love this song. I have to go dance with him!” Taehyung almost sprinted onto the dancefloor, politely yet firmly shoving his way through the crowd towards his best friend.

The rest of the table watched as Taehyung joined the couple, leant forward and exchanged words with Jimin, and then watched as Jimin also shrieked and threw his arms around Taehyung’s neck. The three of them started dancing together.

“Okay… new bet, 10,000 won they all go home together” Jin said, causing murmurs of agreement from Yoongi and Namjoon.

On the dancefloor, Jimin, Jungkook and Taehyung were all emphatically scream-singing the words to Touch My Body when someone bumped into Taehyung’s back. He apologised over his shoulder, noticing it was the man in all black, with whom he briefly made eye contact. But then Hyolyn’s chorus came on and Taehyung lost himself to the song.

Hoseok chuckled as he turned back to Jaehwan, who was also scream-singing along to the chorus, as well as doing a very enthusiastic version of the choreography. Hoseok let out a bark of laughter and joined in on the overt ridiculousness.

As Sistar ends, Jimin leads Jeongguk off the dancefloor, giggling as Jeongguk struggled to keep his hands to himself. Taehyung is in tow, and he plopped back down into the booth.

Jimin and Jeongguk remain standing, Jeongguk very firmly attached to Jimin’s neck. “So uh, we’re gonna head out, stop oh my god, it’s been lovely to meet you all, get home safely! Taetae, you have my number, please text me, let’s get brunch sometime, I have a feeling we’re gonna be incredibly good friends.” Jimin grabbed Jeongguk’s hand and all but skips out of the club, Jeongguk following very close behind.

“Don’t you dare go to our place!” Taehyung yelled behind them, Jeongguk waved a hand over his head in acknowledgement.

“I pity the poor taxi driver who has to take those two home.” Namjoon said. “Speaking of going home, I think I oughta get this one out of here, the more alcohol he drinks the more catlike he gets.”

Yoongi, who was rubbing his head under Namjoon’s chin, pulled back affronted “I do not! Take that back!”

Namjoon looked Yoongi dead in the eye “You are one glass of champagne away from anyone being unable to leave a glass unattended because you'll swipe them off the table.” Namjoon stood, pulling Yoongi up as he went.

Taehyung hummed, got out his phone and ordered an uber. There’s one five minutes away from the club, meaning he’ll still get home in time to have a decent night’s sleep.

Jin checked his watch “Yeah I should probably get Jaehwan and go, too. Tonight has been so much fun, we should do it more often. I know we’re all in the medical field, but Christ, we deserve to have fun too!” he moved off into the crowd to go and find his husband. Taehyung watched him grimace as people bump into him. Eventually he made it to where Jaehwan and the man in all black are dancing, has a quick conversation with them both, hugged the man tightly and then returned to the booth with his husband.

The man moved off to join a group of what look to be professional dancers, the way they’re all moving. They cheer when the man reaches them and immediately push him into the middle of their circle. The change in how this man dances is instantaneous. No more uncoordinated movements and flailing arms; this man moves so fluidly it’s like he has water for bones. He’s dancing slightly off-beat with the music, which only makes him more interesting to watch. The way his body pops and moves, as if his limbs aren’t connected to the rest of his body, is captivating. The man spins - too quickly for Taehyung to see his face - and then slides backwards out of the circle.

All too soon, Taehyung’s phone buzzed and he got up. The others get up to join him, and they all leave the club together. Taehyung cast one quick glance back over his shoulder, unable to pick the man out of the crowd any more. 

🍭

The day of the first show finally arrived, three weeks after the night at the club, a warm Friday night. Hoseok, Jimin and the rest of the team arrive at 7am sharp to start rehearsals, do final checks of equipment and music, and anything else that they decide needs to happen before they go on. Bigbang arrived, and they went through the set list with them one last time, and recapped where everyone needed to stand in each song so as to maximise the effect of the dancers.

As usual, Hoseok was military-esque in his precision and routine for the day, ensuring that everyone was where they needed to be at the right time, and that everyone rested when they could. This was the first night of seven on the first leg of their tour. Granted, the next stop wasn’t for five days, as they needed to travel to Busan and have everything set up there, which Bigbang were in no rush to do, but this was opening night and Hoseok wanted everything to be perfect.

Jeongguk stopped by backstage 30 minutes before they were due to go on. Jimin was absolutely besotted with him and as they spent more and more time together, it was only natural that he slotted into their friendship group. He was a perfect counterpart to Yoongi, being a loveable menace to his hyung whenever he could. He looked at Jimin like he hung the moon and all the stars in the sky, and the feeling was evidently mutual. It helped that he was a sports physiotherapist and reminded them how not to over exert themselves and how to properly take care of their bodies. Whilst Jeongguk offered his services for free, Hoseok always made sure he was properly compensated, either directly or via Jimin. He did not have any desire to find out what Jimin’s idea of compensation was.

“Hey baby!” Jimin cooed as Jeongguk bent down to kiss him, rather chastely compared to the shit Hoseok had seen before.

“I just wanted to come and wish you well before you went on stage. Yoongi hyung and I will be watching from the crowd. I’m so excited to see you up on stage, both of you!”

“You’re too sweet, Jeonggukkie. I just hope you enjoy the show!” Hoseok cooed and pet Jeongguk on the head. He preened under the praise.

“How could I not enjoy the show, you literally got me tickets to a group I’ve loved since I was in elementary school. Plus, my boyfriend and one of my favourite hyungs are gonna be on the stage. This is gonna be one of the best nights of my life.” he bent to kiss Jimin again, and Jimin hummed into the kiss.

“As much as I enjoy you being here, you have approximately 90 seconds before the vein in Hobi-hyung’s neck starts to stick out, so you better get your cute little butt out of here. I’ll see you after the show.”

“I’ll be cheering for you. Seriously. My sign is super embarrassing.” Jeongguk stole one last kiss, waved and left the room.

Jimin turned to Hoseok. “Breathe, hyung. Everything is gonna be fine. We’ve done everything we can to prepare. You’re the best, which means we’re the best. Everything is gonna be fine.”

Hoseok forced himself to take a deep breath; in through the nose, hold for three, out through the mouth. He rolled his shoulders and slowly tilted his head side to side. He took another deep breath. “You’re right, Jimin-ah. Everything will be fine. Now, let’s have a final huddle with the rest of the team.” They both got up and went to the green room.

Finally, the time came for them to go up on stage. The lights were down. They all ran into position. The crowd was screaming already. Hoseok could barely hear himself think. Then, the counts started coming through on his in-ears, and he refused to focus on anything else. The counts and breathing, that’s all he needed.

The lights came up and everyone moved in sync, the opening notes of Bang Bang Bang ringing out across the stadium. Everyone started to clap in time. They were like a well-oiled machine, moving around the four members of Bigbang with practised ease. During the crescendo of the song, all the members of Bigbang picked up a water bottle each to soak the crowd, who were going absolutely wild. Hearing the crowd’s response, they motioned for the dancers to do the same, and as everyone broke routine to pick up a bottle a small impromptu water fight broke out on stage; the members soaking each other, the dancers, and the crowd in equal measure. Hoseok had never dreamed of a moment like this. Bigbang had been his inspiration from middle school, and now they were sharing a stage. He took a second to process this information as he carefully disposed of the bottle he was holding off the edge of the stage.

Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted Jeongguk’s sign, which said “Diminie Sawanghaeng” in pink glitter pen with a stick figure drawing of them holding hands underneath. Jeongguk then turned the sign around to reveal “Smash my pelvis” written in thick black marker. Hoseok immediately had to stop looking at it for fear he’d lose his shit on stage. From next to it, another sign caught his eye. Yoongi was jumping up and down waving a “Hoseok marry me!” sign and it was at that point that Hoseok just decided to ignore his friends altogether.

The setlist went on, and for a few of the slower songs, the dancers weren’t needed, so they went offstage for their outfit changes and to hydrate.

“This is going phenomenally well everyone, you're all so amazing. I’m truly proud to be your leader,” Hoseok said, huddling with his team, trying to make sure he looked everyone in the eye at least once. “There’s about six songs left on the list, then the encore. We’re needed for all of them, so take this rest whilst you can. You’re all amazing. I’m so proud.” Hoseok’s eyes started to tear up, and as the team noticed they all praised him back.

“We’d be nowhere without you, oppa” said one of the girls.

“We’re here because of you, hyung”

“Yeah oppa, you are the centre of this team.”

“We’re just as proud of you, hyung.”

“Oh my god stop I’m going to cry and I can't ruin my makeup now.” Hoseok wiped his eyes with a tissue.

Jimin put his hand on the back of Hoseok’s neck and brought their foreheads together. “This is all because of you, hyung. We’re the best because you’re the best. You’re our heart, Jung Hoseok. Our sunshine leader. Now, get out there and shine.”

Hoseok gasped in a sob. He playfully swatted at Jimin’s arm, letting out a weak “stobbit”, having to dry his eyes again. Jimin laughed then slapped his ass. “Let’s go, hot shit!”

As they ran back on stage for Good Boy, Hoseok skidded in a puddle of water and twisted his knee badly. He barely avoided falling, and he let out a small “ahh shit!” as he flexed his knee in his spot on the stage. Jimin caught his eye from across the stage, and Hoseok gave him a forced smile and a nod. There was absolutely no way he was going to let his team down now, so he was just going to ignore it and push on. A voice in his head, that sounded suspiciously like Yoongi, scolded him for trying to perform on his knee, but Hoseok elected to ignore conscience-Yoongi as much as he was ignoring real-life Yoongi. He’d put his pain to one side and be the leader his team needed. There were only six songs left. Eight including the encore. He could do this.

Finally, the group on stage took their final bow. They stepped aside to let the dancers take a bow. They all stood aside to let Hoseok take a solo bow. He attempted a 90 degree bow, but his knee buckled and he swayed to one side. He caught himself at the last minute, and Jimin rushed to his side. They played it off jokingly, but Jimin whispered “Hyung, are you okay?”

All Hoseok could do was let out a small whine and point to his left knee. Thankfully, at that moment, the lights went down for the final time and everyone began to leave the stage. Hoseok collapsed to the floor where he stood and Jimin scrambled for his phone to call Jeongguk.

A few moments later, Jeongguk and Yoongi were escorted onto the stage by security. Jeongguk bent immediately and began to assess Hoseok’s knee. He rolled up the leg of Hoseok’s pants and hissed through his teeth at the swelling. “Hyung, this could be serious. When did this happen?”

Hoseok grit his teeth as Jeongguk manipulated his leg “Aah… just before Good Boy started. I slipped on some water and twisted it. I couldn’t say anything though, I didn’t want to let the team down.”

Jeongguk’s eyes widened. “Are you telling me you danced on a probably sprained knee for close to an hour?”

“I’m not… not saying that…”

“Okay, we need to get you to a hospital, ASAP. I’m not even going to ask if you can walk. Just. Put your arms around my neck.

Hoseok frowned “What do I need to do that for?”

“In the words of the great Samwise Gamgee, I can’t carry the ring, but I can carry you!” and without further warning, scooped Hoseok up in a princess carry.

Hoseok squealed and hurriedly wrapped his arms around Jeongguk’s neck. Jimin was already on the phone to the managers letting them know what happened, and Yoongi ran out ahead to get his car and bring it to the stage doors.

Jimin hung up the call with the manager and started “I’ll let the team know, in case we need to-”

“Don’t.” Hoseok cut him off. “I’ll be fine. Nobody needs to pull out or postpone. I’ll be fine.”

Jimin exchanged glances with Jeongguk, worry etched across both their faces. They didn’t have too long to dwell on it, though, as presently Yoongi’s black Audi screeched to a halt by the curb. Jimin headed for the back passenger door, opening it for Jeongguk and Hoseok, and then climbed into the front passenger seat himself. As soon as all the doors were closed and seatbelts were on, Yoongi peeled away from the curb and flipped a switch in his dashboard, so a light that nobody had ever noticed on the top of his car started to flash blue.

“Sometimes it pays to be a midwife. This is one of the many perks. I’ll have us at the hospital in no time.” Yoongi looked in the rear view mirror at Hoseok, who was trying and failing to smile through the pain.

They arrived at the emergency room a short while later, Hoseok absolutely refused to be princess carried a second time, so Jimin went ahead and asked for a wheelchair.

“You’re no fun,” Jeongguk pouted.

Hoseok rolled his eyes as Jimin helped him into the wheelchair. “You can push me up to the hospital if that makes you feel better.”

Jeongguk smiled and grabbed the handles. “It does.”

They signed in with the emergency room receptionist and found a place in the waiting room. Yoongi immediately walked off in search of food and water for the two dancers, whilst Jimin busied himself pacing back and forth.

“Can’t they see us yet? It’s been HOURS.”

“Jimin, it’s been twelve minutes.” Hoseok replied “Please for the love of God, relax. You’re more stressed than I am and it’s not helping.”

Jimin huffed and sat down next to Jeongguk, across from Hoseok. “I feel awful, this is my fault.”

“Literally how is this your fault? You’re not the idiot who slipped on water and twisted his knee.”

“Call yourself an idiot one more time, I dare you-”

Jeongguk began to massage the back of Jimin’s neck in an effort to calm him down. “Minnie, relax baby. Hobi-hyung didn’t exactly make the best choice by continuing to dance on his knee, but it looks like it’s a minor sprain. With some strong painkillers and rest, he should be fine in a couple of days.”

Jimin exhaled through his nose, closing his eyes. He put his head in his hands and let out a long whine “I should have done something when I noticed you were in pain.”

“What, and disturb the show? You absolutely should not have. I made my stupid bed, and now I have to lie in it. Probably literally.” Hoseok shifted in his wheelchair.

“Jung Hoseok?” a baritone voice, as smooth and rich as melted chocolate and just as warming, caught their attention. “Is there a Jung Hoseok?”

“Oh my GOD, Taehyung!” Jimin screeched, running up to him. He flung his arms around Taehyung’s neck, pulling an oof from Taehyung. Jeongguk followed closely behind, wheeling Hoseok with them.

“Hey hyung, should’ve known you were on shift tonight.” Jeongguk said, initiating their secret handshake, which Taehyung reciprocated seemingly without thinking.

“Hey you two,” Taehyung started, and then looked down at the man in the wheelchair “I take it this is Jung Hoseok?”

“You got it.” Hoseok replied weakly, his brain not really keeping up with anything. So this is the infamous Kim Taehyung that Jimin and Jeongguk were always talking about. Hoseok raked his eyes over the nurse as Taehyung read Hoseok’s admittance notes. He was, fortunately or unfortunately he hadn’t decided yet, quite simply the most beautiful man Hoseok had ever seen in his entire life. Tall and broad with honey skin and big hands with long fingers that Hoseok spent a probably indecent amount of time looking at. He had the softest looking brown wavy hair that fell over his eyes and curled beautifully behind his ears. His eyes were a dark brown, and Hoseok was pretty sure brown had always been his favourite colour. There was a stunning array of moles on his face and neck, plus the fact that the voice that was smoother than velvet and warmer than a fire on a winter’s day went with that face and that body? Quite simply put, Hoseok was fucked from the get-go.

“Hm, a possible sprain eh? Let’s get you wheeled in the exam room and I’ll see what’s what.” he turned his attention to Jeongguk “I assume you’ve already done an assessment?”

“Yeah I have. Movement is fine, it’s not dislocated, and I couldn’t feel anything out of the ordinary when I was manipulating his leg. The swelling is… Not pretty though.” Jeongguk replied whilst pushing Hoseok along the corridor.

Yoongi skidded to a halt next to them with several water bottles, granola bars, fruit, and some cup ramyeon, although God knows where he planned on getting the hot water for them.

“Oh, hey Yoongi hyung! Are you with Hoseok-ssi?”

Yoongi nodded as he handed out the bottles of water and granola bars “Yeah, someone had to make sure they got here quickly. I’m just glad we drove there in my car tonight.”

“Oh my god, did you get to put your emergency light on?”

“I did indeed!”

“I’ve always wanted to do that.” Taehyung whined as he pushed open the door to the examination room, holding it wide so that Jeongguk could wheel Hoseok through.

“Hi,” Hoseok said, kind of dopily and à propos of nothing, not really thinking about anything other than making the Most Beautiful Nurse In The World look at him.

“Why hello there, Hoseok-ssi.” Taehyung smiled down at Hoseok, his mouth pulling into a smile, and God if that wasn’t completely unfair. Hoseok’s heart clenched, so he said the most intelligent and charming thing he could think of.

“Hi.”

This caused Taehyung to laugh, and if Hoseok had thought that Taehyung’s smile was unfair then his laugh should be considered illegal. Jeongguk and Jimin sniggered to themselves, and Hoseok shot them a glare. He thought he was doing very well given the circumstances.

“Let’s get you up on the table, huh Hobi-hyung.” Jeongguk moved to put his arms under Hoseok’s torso, but before he could get there, Hoseok regained his neural functions.

“Jeon Winifred Jeongguk, if you princess carry me one more time I will buy your apartment complex and have you evicted.”

Taehyung let out a confused laugh. “Winifred?”

“Yeah,” Jimin replied “He gives us all old fashioned English middle names when he’s particularly upset with us. Yoongi hyung’s is Augustine. Mine is Josephine. You’re not really Hobi hyung’s friend until you have an English middle name.”

Jeongguk puffed out his chest “I got my nickname after ten days!”

“That’s not something to be proud of, dingus.” Yoongi rolled his eyes.

Hoseok hoisted himself out of the wheelchair with a whine and Jimin’s hands shot out as if to catch him.

“Back off Josephine, I got this.” he said through gritted teeth.

“Of course you do, says the genius who thought it was a good idea to dance on an injured knee.”

“I do have this under contr-” unfortunately for Hoseok, at that precise moment, Hoseok tipped his weight forward, causing the wheelchair to yeet backwards. Hoseok let out a scream of surprise and pain, and as suddenly as it happened, strong arms grabbed him.

“Easy now Iris, don’t want to make your knee any worse than it is.” Taehyung helped Hoseok up, who was blushing furiously, from his neck right up to his hairline.

“Did Taehyung just give Hobi hyung an English name?” Jimin stage whispered to Jeongguk and Yoongi.

“I think Taehyung just gave Hobah an English name,” Yoongi confirmed. 

“Can he… can he do that?” asked Jeongguk, a cute little line appearing between his furrowed brows.

Hoseok reluctantly got himself out of Taehyung’s arms. “I can hear you, y’know,” he grimaced in pain and helped his knee onto the bed with both hands, hissing through his teeth.

All the other eyebrows in the room joined Jeongguk’s in being knotted together, though the reason had shifted from humour to concern. 

Taehyung hummed to himself. “I think we should order a CT scan just to be on the safe side, though I don’t think it’s anything worse than a sprain. However, I do not want to be the cause of you losing your career. I’ll also get you something for the pain in the meantime.” He smiled a lopsided smile at Hoseok. “I’ll be right back.” 

As soon as the door clicked shut, three pairs of eyes were on Hoseok. 

“What?” he said, feigning ignorance, opening his second granola bar and taking a bite. 

“Don’t you what me, Jung Iris Hoseok-”

“That’s Jung Iris Hoseok hyung to you, brat.” he hissed again as he shifted on the bed. 

“We saw you checking out Taehyungie hyung~” Jeongguk cooed in a sing-songy voice. 

“So I happen to think he’s the most beautiful thing that ever has or ever will grace this green earth, what about it?” Hoseok said defiantly.

Yoongi smirked, “Oh, seeing you on these pain meds with him in the room is gonna be fun .”

Hoseok suddenly paled, “Wh… what do you mean?”

Jeongguk smirked, “Depending on what hyungie is going to get for you, some painkillers can make you a little… loose lipped.”

Before Hoseok could respond, Taehyung was back in the room. Hoseok squeaked in surprise, and then in pain. 

“It’s a good job I’ve got something for you for the pain, huh?” Taehyung smiled as he wheeled a little trolley with medical equipment. Hoseok spotted the needle and whimpered. “I just need to take your blood pressure first, please roll your sleeve up.”

Hoseok rolled the sleeve of his shirt as far up his arm as he could get it as Taehyung turned on the blood pressure monitor and opened the cuff. He slid it on Hoseok’s arm and pressed a button. The machine started to whir. After a short while, it beeped and deflated. 

“Hmm, your blood pressure isn’t high enough yet to give you these meds.” Taehyung turned to the other three “Could you go get some more water and snacks for Hoseok-ssi? I’ll try moving him into a better position, see if we can’t get his blood pressure up.” 

Jimin immediately jumped to his feet and began grilling Yoongi on where the vending machines and cafes were, then started splitting the hospital into zones and shepherding them out of the door. 

“Uh, we have a bag full of snacks over there…” Hoseok gestured. 

Taehyung went off to grab the bag. “Oh, I know, but I got the feeling those three would be really annoying so I sent them off on a bit of a goose chase.”

Hoseok laughed and then grimaced. He was absolutely in over his head and he liked this nurse very much. Taehyung handed him some more water and a sandwich he pulled out of the bag. 

Hoseok accepted both gratefully, opened the sandwich and ate half of it in no time. “I ate before the show, but I’m a little hungry.”

“It’s best we keep your blood sugar up.” Taehyung replied, turning towards the trolley. He picked up the needle and a small, clear bottle and began to work. 

“I uh. I am a little bit a lot afraid of needles.” he confessed, looking up at Taehyung with a plea in his eyes. 

“Well, it’s a good job I’ve got the best hands in the business, then.” Taehyung said softly, winking at Hoseok. Hoseok couldn’t remember what he was concerned about before, as his primary concern was trying to control the blush that was spreading across his face for the second time in the past 30 minutes. 

“Uhhhhh, will you hold my hand?” asked Hoseok in a very small voice. 

Taehyung chuckled, “I sort of need my hands for this, but how about this,” he bent down and picked something up off one of the lower layers of the trolley Hoseok couldn’t see. Taehyung handed him a small, brown teddy bear in medical scrubs and a surgical mask. “You can hold on to Mr Bear here, and I’ll sing to you, does that help?” Hoseok’s heart grew three sizes as he gratefully accepted it. 

“Now, focus on my face,” Taehyung said, as if that wasn’t exactly what Hoseok had been doing for the past however long they’d been in the hospital. “I’ll start singing, there will be a small pinch, but the pain will start to lessen almost immediately. You might start feeling a bit woozy in about five to ten minutes, but I’ll take care of you.”

Hoseok nodded, clutching Mr Bear even tighter in his arms. “I’m ready,” he whispered, not taking his eyes off of the beautiful face in front of him. 

Taehyung started to sing gently. 

“ She looks like a blue parrot, would you come fly to me? I want some good day, good day, good day good day, good day…”

Hoseok wasn’t sure he’d ever heard the song before, but it was now his favourite song in the entire world. Taehyung’s delightful baritone was so smooth and had the most unique tone Hoseok had heard in his life. All of a sudden, Taehyung slid into a breathy falsetto and Hoseok had exactly two and a half heart attacks. He was vaguely aware of a pinch in his arm, but he assumed that was him pinching himself to make sure he wasn’t dreaming. 

Taehyung continued to sing once he’d turned away from Hoseok, putting the used needle in the sharps bin and cleaning the rest of the area down.

Eventually, Taehyung stopped singing and turned to Hoseok. “There, that wasn’t so bad, hmm?” he said, another warm grin on his face. 

Even if he could think straight, Hoseok wasn’t sure he trusted himself to form a coherent sentence at the moment. He felt lightheaded, and he was unsure whether it was from the painkillers or from the singing. Either way, he was no longer sure his nose was connected to his face and not three feet to the left of his head. 

Without warning or ceremony, the door swung open and three people practically fell through it, armed to the teeth with bags full of snacks. “We’re here! We’re here. We have the snacks.” Jimin’s eyes were wide and his breathing was heavy. 

Taehyung gave them a sweet smile “Oh, thanks! Actually, Hoseok-ssi’s blood pressure went up naturally. I’ve already administered the painkiller. Thanks though!” his smile pulled into a wide, boxy grin and Hoseok was suddenly made entirely of his heartbeat. 

“Taehyungie! You should be happy every day for the rest of your life.” Hoseok slurred out. Suddenly, four pairs of eyes were on him, all equally wide. “Seriously. You’re too pretty to be sad. It’s illegal, I just said so. I make the law, right Jimin-ah?”

“Whatever you say, Hobi hyung.” Jimin giggled. “Hey, whilst we’re talking about the law, you wanna give me a pay rise?”

“I’d give you the world if you asked, Jimin-ah. You’re my favourite. Don’t tell Jeongguk. He’d get upset.”

Jeongguk huffed, “The Jeongguk in question is here and heard everything, hyung.” He sat down on the edge of the bed. 

Hoseok jumped “Jeongguk?! When did you get here?” Hoseok made grabby hands at Jeongguk, and he sighed and scooted closer. “You look so squidgy, Jeongguk. I just wanna eat your little nose. Can I eat it? It’d grow back if you asked it nicely.” 

Taehyung chimed in “As one of three medical professionals in the room, I can say with relative certainty that is not the case.” 

Hoseok scrunched up his face and raised his arm to point at Taehyung. “You. Come away with me.”

“I’m sorry, wanna run that by me again?” Taehyung asked, “Cause I’m pretty sure you just asked me to come away with you.”

“Mmm, I did. You can be my personal nurse on the Bigbang tour. You help people get better, I need to get better!” Hoseok shuffled past Jeongguk and made grabby hands for Taehyung, who moved closer. Hoseok whispered, quite loudly actually, “I don’t know if you know but I’m kinda rich.”

Taehyung chuckled “That so?”

“Yyyyyyep.” Hoseok said, popping the P at the end. “I’ll pay you to be my nurse. Bring Mr Bear, he’s important.”

“As appealing as that sounds, I do have a job and I can’t just leave for…?” Taehyung turned to Jimin, a questioning look on his face.

Jimin finished his sentence “Four weeks.”

Taehyung nodded, Hoseok pouted the poutiest little pout Taehyung had ever seen. “Besides, we literally just met. I’ll tell you what, though. Give me your number and I’ll check in with you whilst you’re away. Jeonggukkie here can go with you on tour and I’ll make sure he’s taking proper care of you.”

Hoseok huffed and hugged Mr Bear to his chest and handed over his phone. “Fine.”

There was a knock on the door. A porter stuck his head through the door. “I’m here to take Mr Jung for his CT scan.”

“Ah, wonderful!” Taehyung breezed. “Please bring him back here when he’s done. I’ll review the scans with him.” 

The porter nodded and Hoseok reached out for Jeongguk. “Please carry me, Jeonggukie.”

Jeongguk rolled his eyes and huffed, not quite managing to keep the pleased little grin off his face. 

After Jeongguk, Hoseok and the porter left the room, Yoongi went off to go grab a coffee, leaving only Jimin and Taehyung in the room. Taehyung was busy cleaning up his station when Jimin spoke up. 

“So, are you gonna do it?”

“Do what?”

“”Take Hobi-hyung up on the job offer. You should at least consider it - he wasn’t kidding, he is rich, and I’ve been to your apartment and, well… no offense…” Jimin waved his hand noncommittally.  

Taehyung stopped what he was doing and stared at Jimin. “You’re joking.” which was more of a statement than a question. 

“What? Hoseokie hyung is a good guy and so are you. Just. Consider it.” Jimin shrugged, examining his nails. 

Taehyung went back to what he was doing, mulling over what Jimin had said to him. 

🍭

The next day, Taehyung was clocking in to work. He walked down the corridor towards the locker room to put his things away before his shift started. As he got to the door, Yoongi was just heading inside as well. Taehyung followed him in and greeted him with his usual sunny disposition. “Yoongi hyung, hi!” 

Yoongi nodded and grunted, having never been a morning person ever since Taehyung met him five years before. 

“Have you heard from Hoseok-hyung this morning?” Taehyung carried on. 

Yoongi grunted and nodded, fishing his phone out of his pocket and putting it in his locker. 

They continued to put away their things and prepare for their shift. 

“You know, if Hoseok offered to pay you to be his on-call nurse, you should consider it. I bet you still have vacation days to use, and the pay would be way better than here, not to mention the hours would be better.”

Taehyung gawked. Yoongi was never usually a man of this many words in the morning, let alone on this sort of topic. 

“Hyung, I can’t , how would I get the time off at such short notice? They leave next week!”

Yoongi huffed and waved his hand. “Other than the fact you’re an exemplary employee who never asks for anything ever, Seojoon adores you and would give you the shirt off his back if you asked him to.” 

“But I barely even know Hoseok hyung, and-”

“And I have known him for entirely too long.” Yoongi cut him off. “I don’t say this lightly, but Hoseok is absolutely one of the best people on the face of this earth. His heart is worth the heart of a thousand others. The way he cares for and about people is unparalleled. If he wants to help you, I say let him.”

Not for the first time in twelve hours, Taehyung finds himself speechless. 

“Just. Consider it. Talk to Hoseok.” Yoongi says, closing his locker, sighing, and putting on his bedside manner face. 

Taehyung stood in stunned silence. He eyed his phone that he had just placed in his locker, and before he could think better of it, he picked it up, brought up Hoseok’s contact information and typed out a message. 

Taetae

09:53am

Hi hyung! I hope your knee is doing okay this morning? 🤔

So. I’ve been thinking about what you said last night. I’m not sure if it was the medication talking but you offered? To pay me? To be your private nurse? 

I was just. Wondering… what would that look like?

Taehyung cringed as he pressed send on the messages, gripping his phone a little too tightly and biting his bottom lip as he waited for a response.

As his phone vibrated in his hand, Taehyung nearly dropped it. He fumbled it and managed to unlock it. A cheery, one line response awaited him.

☀️🕺

09:55am
Good morning Taehyung-ah! Why don’t we meet for coffee to discuss? (≧◡≦)

Taehyung stared at his phone. It vibrated again.

☀️🕺

09:56am

Would tonight be okay for you?

What time does your shift finish?

I can have you picked up and brought to my penthouse (⌒ω⌒)

Unless that would make you uncomfortable ＼(〇_ｏ)／

Just. Y’know. My knee.

A very cute nurse said I have to rest (^_<)〜☆

Taetae

09:58am

Tonight is fine, hyung

And so is your penthouse! I can bring you some stuff for your knee 😊

I finish at 10pm, see you after?

☀️🕺

09:59am
I’ll send a car to come and get you. It’ll be out front at 10pm sharp.

Have a good shift, handsome ヾ(・ω・*)

Taehyung locks his phone and puts it in his locker. He’s really going to do this, huh? Well, he’d always said that his favourite phrase was “What’s the worst that could happen?” and it had been a while since he put it to the test. He sighed and left the room. Just 12 hours to go. 

Taehyung’s shift felt like it crawled past. Somewhat thankfully, he didn’t see any of his favourite halmeonis, and he had to endure more than his fair share of rude and grumpy people. Nothing exciting happened, nothing out of the ordinary, nothing special. Whilst on normal days this would be perfectly fine for Taehyung (god forbid someone said the word “quiet” on shift, otherwise the day would go to hell in a handbasket), on days like today it just meant everything went extra slowly. 

Finally, finally, 10pm rolled around and Taehyung went with a quickness to the locker room to collect his things. He shoved everything in his brown leather messenger bag which he pulled across his shoulder, then he stopped to look at himself in the mirrors by the door on the way out, dragged a hand through his hair which would not behave after a 12 hour shift, gave up and then all but jogged out of the front doors of the hospital. 

Sure enough, a black car was parked in the small parking lot at the front of the hospital. A tall, young gentleman was leaning against the back of the car, seemingly waiting for him.

“Taehyung-ssi?” he called “This way, please; my name is Soobin and I’ll be your driver this evening.” Soobin pushed himself off the car, opened the back passenger door and motioned for Taehyung to get in. 

Taehyung quickly crossed the car park and got in the back of the car. Soobin shut the door behind him and promptly got in the front. Soobin backed the car out of the space and then they were on their way to… wherever Hoseok’s penthouse was. 

Taehyung nervously fiddled with… everything he could possibly fiddle with. He was jiggling his knee, biting his lower lip, picking at the skin of his thumb with his forefinger and aimlessly scrolling through his social media with his other hand. 

He decided to quickly drop a text in the group chat to make sure people knew where he was going. 

Torpedo Technicians💉
Tae, Namjoon, Yoongi, Jin, JK

Nurse Kim
10:03pm

Hey so like I’m on my way to Hoseok’s penthouse to give him stuff for his knee and idk maybe talk about being a for-hire nurse??? I doubt anything bad will happen but jsyk !!

Haha! 

Who’s nervous?

I’m not

Nervous. 

JayKay
10:04pm
👀

Yoongi

10:04pm

👀

Namjoon

10:04pm

👀

Jin

10:04pm
Well shit, my money was on sugar baby

Who had for-hire nurse?

Namjoon
10:05pm

I had sugar baby down, too

Nurse Kim

10:06pm
Guuuuyyyys 😭

I just wanted you to know where I’ll be

JayKay

10:07pm
Knock him dead, tiger.

Nurse Kim
10:08pm

I hate you guys

In no time at all, Taheyung felt the car slow, turned down a slope and Soobin pressed a button behind the rear view mirror. A huge set of metal gates drew back and they drove into a secure underground car park. Soobin opens the door for Taehyung and walks him across to an elevator. Once the elevator arrived, Taehyung stepped inside. Soobin reached in, pressed the button for the 45th floor, and wordlessly nodded at Taehyung. The doors closed and Taehyung could see his reflection in the polished brass of the doors. He swallowed nervously. 

The elevator rose quickly and silently, and before Taehyung even got a chance to calm his nerves, a soft chime let him know he had arrived at the destination floor. The brass doors gave way into a short, sleek corridor with a white door at the end. Taehyung stepped out of the elevator, took a few deep breaths, jumped on the spot a few times to try and work out some nervous energy and then walked toward the door. 

Taehyung extended a finger and pressed the doorbell. From within, he heard a “Coming!” and he took a few more deep breaths. Eventually, the door swung inwards and Taehyung saw Hoseok on crutches, still smiling. 

“Taehyung-ah! I’m so glad you came over!” Hoseok said brightly, struggling backward on his crutches. “Nobody tells you how difficult these damn things are to navigate. They look fun on TV. Just, plant and swing… But I keep overbalancing” Hoseok’s mouth pulled down at the corner as he wobbled almost as if to prove a point. He crossed his frankly enormous living room towards the L-shaped couch. He wobbled again, stopped, and let out a little noise of frustration.

Taehyung’s nerves disappeared immediately as he took a quick look at the crutches, “They’re the wrong height for you, hyung. Here, let me adjust them for you.” He grabbed Hoseok by the waist and put an arm around his shoulder, encouraging Hoseok to lean on him the rest of the way to the couch. After he gently lowered Hoseok to the couch, he changed the height of the crutches. He then reached into his messenger bag, pulled out two bright yellow pads and slipped them over the handles of the crutches. “Gel cushions. Crutches can hurt your hands after a while. Don’t want to make anything worse for you.” Taehyung smiled gently at Hoseok, who was too busy recovering from the half-carry across the living room to be able to form a coherent answer, choosing instead to smile back. 

Taehyung crouched in front of Hoseok and reached out to his knee, hesitating slightly. “Can I?” he questioned, looking Hoseok dead in the eyes. Too stunned to speak, Hoseok merely nodded meekly. Taehyung gently pulled up the leg of Hoseok’s sweatpants to have a look at his knee. He hummed, then went inside his bag again, pulling out a tube of something. “Anti-inflammatory gel, with a mild painkiller in it.” he explained as he popped the cap off and squeezed a generous dollop into his long fingers. He warmed it up a little before massaging it into Hoseok’s knee. 

Hoseok was fighting an internal battle not to let his brain go straight into the gutter without passing go. Luckily, the dull ache of his knee helped to keep his brain on the straight and narrow, so to speak. Taehyung drew his hand back, fished a medical wipe from his bag, unwrapped it and cleaned his hands. 

“Are you trying to prove what a great private nurse you’d make?” Hoseok asked, a smile on his face as he pulled the leg of his sweatpants down again. 

Taehyung laughed, his mouth turning into the most delightful boxy smile that Hoseok would rate in the top ten smiles he’s ever seen in his life, if not top five. “I’m pretty sure I don’t need to prove anything, since you invited me to work with you within the first hour of meeting me.” Taehyung rebuked, a smirk pulling at his lips, drawing his mouth into a wonderful crooked smile. 

Now it was Hoseok’s turn to laugh. He reached over to the table beside the corner couch and grabbed a tablet, opening the cover with one hand and patting the couch next to him with the other. As Taehyung sat, Hoseok showed him the tablet, and began “I had my lawyer draw up some simple contracts I thought we could go over, so you know I'm not a creep and that my offer is legit and I’m not about to kidnap you and whisk you off to Monaco.”

“I mean being kidnapped and taken to Monaco sounds pretty great actually.” Taehyung joked, taking the tablet and reading the contract. It seemed straightforward enough; Taehyung would travel around with Hoseok for the duration of the tour and be his on-call nurse. In return, Taehyung would receive a salary, a payment to cover his rent for the duration of the tour, living and travel expenses, miscellaneous expenses and a stipend. It all amounted to an unbelievably generous amount of money. “I’m not actually sure I’ve seen that many zeros on a number before.” Taehyung says, frowning at the tablet. “Also what’s the difference between a salary and a stipend and why am I getting both?” 

Hoseok merely waved his hand at this, and said “if the terms and numbers look okay to you, all you need to do is sign on the bottom and notify the hospital. My team will sort everything else out for you.”

Taehyung got his phone out and started doing some quick maths. Taking this four week sabbatical from working at the hospital would help him out a lot. He could do a lot with the frankly ridiculous sum of money that was being presented to him. He could pay off a bunch of his student loans. He could cut back his hours at the hospital. He could maybe actually have a vacation for once. 

After a few minutes of reading and re-reading the contract and different calculations on his phone, he said aloud “Fuck it eh?” and signed on the dotted line. 

Hoseok literally cheered, took back the tablet, signed his name next to Taehyung’s, tapped a few more times and then clicked the tablet off. He grabbed his crutches and stood himself up. “Oh wow, these feel much better, and the pads are super comfy, thank you Taehyungie!” He began to leave the room, but he paused and turned back. “I was going to grab some champagne before I realised that it would be quite difficult… Taehyung please will you come help me grab some champagne?”

“The fact that you can just ‘grab some champagne’ is astounding to me.” Taehyung said as he got off the couch to follow Hoseok. 

“Listen; I’m gay, rich, and an Aquarius. Being indulgent is in my DNA.” 

🍭

The following day, Taehyung stopped by Seojoon’s office before his shift. He took a deep breath and knocked lightly. 

“Come on in!” he heard from inside. Taehyung pushed the door open, stepped in and closed it behind him. He looked to where Seojoon was hunched over his desk, a pile of paperwork looming next to him. Seojoon looked up and, as his eyes caught Taehyung’s, they lit up and a smile broke over his face. “Taehyung-ah! To what do I owe this pleasant surprise?” He took his glasses off and lowered his pen to his desk.

Taehyung laughed nervously. “I wouldn’t get too excited, hyungnim. I have a favour to ask.”

“Consider it done.” Seojoon went back to his paperwork, replacing his glasses on his face. 

Taehyung made a noise in the back of his throat “Hyung! You can’t just agree without knowing what it is! I could be asking you to help me hide a body!”

“I mean, we are in the right place to get rid of a body. Stick them in the morgue, I’ll deal with them later.” 

“ Hyung. ” 

Seojoon sighed “Fine, have it your way. What is it that I can help you with?” He fixed Taehyung with his gaze, and once again Taehyung was nervous. 

“I um. I need to take a sabbatical. For four weeks. Starting on Wednesday. Which is in four days.” 

Seojoon stared at Taehyung, unblinking. The silence stretched on between them for what felt like an uncomfortable amount of time. The clock on the wall ticked, the only indication that time was actually progressing at a normal pace. 

“Consider it done.” 

Taehyung let out an exasperated wail. “I’m being serious, hyung! I need to take four weeks off of work!” 

Seojoon sighed gently. “Taehyung-ah, listen. You are one of the best staff members this hospital has. You’ve never asked for anything before, and I’m pretty sure you’re owed at least four weeks of good karma. It’ll be tight, but we’ll have a few extra people soon because of the new batch of students.” Seojoon got up from behind his desk and walked around it to clap Taehyung on the shoulder. “Relax, Taehyung. We got this. Take your four weeks. Just come back to us afterwards.”

Taehyung nodded and left Seojoon’s office without saying another word. 

He was going on a tour of Asia for four weeks. This was going to change his entire life. 

He began to walk towards the locker room in a daze. He could not believe it had been that easy. He pushed the door to the locker room open, and made his way to his locker on autopilot. 

His phone buzzed in his hand, which snapped him out of his daze. 

☀️🕺

9:47am

Soooo

How’d it go? (•ิ_•ิ)?

TaeTae
9:48am

Surprisingly well, actually?

He just. Gave me four weeks off. 

? 

☀️🕺

9:50am

ヽ(*⌒▽⌒*)ﾉ

Then it’s settled!!

TaeTae
9:51am

It would seem so! 

I have to like

Pack? 

Fuck I should tell Jeongguk. 

Or is he coming with us? He is right?

Taehyung was pacing around the locker room, brain going a million miles an hour as he sent message after message to Hoseok. His phone vibrated again

☀️🕺

9:52am

Taehyungie please calm down (ﾉД`)

I can feel your stress from here

It’s not good for my knee (μ_μ)

TaeTae
9:53am

Sorry hyung

How is your knee today? 

☀️🕺

9:54am

Idk there isn’t a really handsome nurse massaging gel into it so

¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

Taehyung relaxed at this, leaned against the locker and smirked. He liked that Hoseok seemed to have an innate ability to put Taehyung at ease. 

TaeTae
9:55am

Why don’t you give Jeonggukkie a call, see if he can come give you a rub down?

☀️🕺

9:56am

(╯︵╰,)
(╥﹏╥)
(ಥ﹏ಥ)

TaeTae
9:57am

Relax hyung, I can come over again after work to check on you. 

☀️🕺

9:58am

Oh good, I already told Soobinnie to come pick you up

See you later, Taehyung-ah!

ヽ(>∀<☆)ノ

🍭

The next four days passed in a flurry of last minute plans, arrangements, and visits to Hoseok’s house. Taehyung spent his time at work finishing up any loose ends, handing anything he needed to hand over to Seojoon who assured him for at least the millionth time that it was in fact still okay to leave for four weeks. 

He visited Hoseok every day, partly to take care of his knee but increasingly, the visits were just social calls as they planned the finer details of the trip. Taehyung found that he enjoyed being in Hoseok’s presence - the dancer just had a way of making him feel relaxed and comfortable, laughter coming easily when they were together. As Hoseok was still off his feet, Taehyung was mostly helping out around the house - small things for the most part. They had tried cooking together exactly one time, but Taehyung had nearly burnt through one of Hoseok’s very expensive pans, so they didn’t try that again. 

Finally, the departure day arrived. He packed up all of his necessities into two Louis Vuitton cases, which Hoseok had insisted on buying for him after seeing Taehyung’s old and battered set. At the last minute decided to take his cameras with him. He had a modern DSLR camera, a polaroid camera and an old, retro film camera. He figured that he wouldn’t need to be with Hoseok 100% of the time, and hoped this trip could help reignite his passion for photography. 

Once he was satisfied with his packing, he went to wash up, then picked out a travel outfit. Which he changed four times. Finally, he settled on some brown, wide leg dress pants and a soft, olive green sweater tucked into the front of the pants. He picked out some matching brown loafers, a pair of glasses frames and some simple necklaces. Running his fingers through his wavy brown hair, he picked up his bags and shuffled to the hallway. 

As he opened his door, he bumped into Jeongguk - literally. He was backing out of his room, duffle bag on his leather jacket clad back, sunglasses perched on his head. Jeongguk let out a surprised ‘oing’, then turned round and gave his best bunny smile. “Ready to go, hyung?” Jeongguk reached for the door handle after giving the apartment one last look over. “I can’t believe you’re gonna be a sugar baby!” Jeongguk said, grinning widely at Taehyung. 

“For the last time, I’m a personal nurse.”

“Are you or are you not entering into a mutually beneficial relationship where you’re exchanging companionship for a financial benefit?”

“I didn’t know you knew that many big words”

“Look at you, dodging the question.” Jeongguk grabbed Taehyung’s face between his hands and squeezed his cheeks. “They grow up so fast.”

Taehyung huffed and rolled his eyes. 

“Come on, sugar baby, let’s go!” Jeongguk winked and pulled the door open. 

“Keep calling me that and I’ll tell Jimin what happened in Budapest with the goat hand, the aromatherapist, and the train driver six years ago.”

Jeongguk let out an indignant sound but then closed his mouth, nodded and bowed dramatically as he opened the door in a sweeping motion. 

Taehyung scoffed and grabbed his bags. “Yeah, that’s what I thought .” He walked out of the door toward the elevator. His phone buzzed, so he fished it out of his pocket. Soobin’s name flashed up, the text let him know the car was waiting downstairs for them. 

20 minutes later, they arrived at the scheduled meet-up point. Most people were either flying or taking the train to Busan, but the four of them had decided on a road trip for nostalgia purposes. Soobin had taken their cases elsewhere after dropping them at the gate. There were so many people and vehicles around, Taehyung immediately felt overwhelmed. He instinctively clung to Jeongguk’s sleeve for a little comfort. Jeongguk reached back and laced Taehyung’s fingers through his own. He squeezed them reassuringly and led the way through the crowd. 

“JEONGGUKKIE, TAEHYUNGIE!” an excited screech was immediately followed by what Taehyung could only assume was being tackled into a hug by an 18 wheeler truck. 

“It’s been too LONG” Jimin wrapped his arms around Taehyung’s waist, nuzzling his face into his neck. 

“Jimin, you saw him on Monday.” Jeongguk said from the sidelines.

Jimin drew back and fixed Jeongguk with a deadpan face, one perfectly sculpted eyebrow raised. “Exactly. It’s Wednesday now. It’s been too long.” Jimin detached himself from Taehyung and walked up to his boyfriend, drawing him into a kiss. “Not jealous, are you Jeonggukkie? This isn’t going to turn into the perilla leaf debate again is it?” 

Jeongguk pouted against Jimin’s lips “That was an entirely reasonable scenario! It happens more often than you think!”

Jimin rolled his eyes and booped Jeongguk’s nose. “Cute.”

“Oh sure, leave the reason you’re all here together to struggle .” Hoseok’s voice came from behind them. Immediately, Taehyung spun on his heels and took Hoseok’s cross body bag from him and helped him arrange himself more comfortably on his crutches. Hoseok fixed him with his brightest heart shaped smile. “See, this is why he’s my favourite.”

“He’s your favourite because you pay him to be.” Jimin countered. “He’s my favourite because I love him.”

“Okay wow, I told you it was more common than you think.” Jeongguk chimed in, indignation written all over his face.

“Jimin, these crutches give me incredible swinging potential, I can still kick your ass with my good leg.” Hoseok pushed himself up on the crutches, eyes locked on Jimin.

“I wouldn’t recommend it, hyung, what if you hurt your other knee?” Taehyung put his hand on Hoseok’s shoulder, speaking in his soothing baritone voice. 

Hoseok immediately softened. “My nurse says I’m not allowed to kick your ass right now.” 

They all began to laugh as they made their way over to the cars. Taehyung and Hoseok were travelling together in a 7 person car, as this gave Hoseok enough room to keep his leg raised the entire duration of the car rides. They made themselves comfortable in the car - Taehyung ensured that he had everything Hoseok could possibly want within reaching distance. He arranged the medical bag next to him, as well as getting one of his cameras out of his bag.

“Oh? I didn’t know you were into photography.” Hoseok studied Taehyung as he took the lens cap off his DSLR.

Taehyung smiled and turned the camera on. “Yeah, it’s just a hobby I do in my spare time more than anything else… not that I have much spare time, these days. I brought my cameras with me in case I got some down time…” he trailed off, suddenly feeling guilty. “Not that I don’t plan on taking care of you! I do. I just, I thought that since you’d be at rehearsals a lot, I - I mean I assume you’ll be at rehearsals-”

“Taehyung, relax, you’re talking yourself in circles again.”

Taehyung stopped and breathed out.

“Can I see some of the pictures you’ve taken before?” Hoseok asked, leaning over in his seat as far as his seatbelt and knee would allow him.

Taehyung chewed his bottom lip for a moment whilst he considered it. There had only really been Jeongguk who had seen his photographs before. His parents, sure, but nobody outside of that. He looked over at Hoseok, nodded and passed over his camera, giving brief instructions of how to work it.

After a few minutes, some gasps, oohs and exclamations, Hoseok handed the camera back to a very red-faced Taehyung.

“I think your work is beautiful, Taehyung-ah. You really do have the soul of an artist. The way you use the light to frame your subjects is truly lovely. I hope you find the time and the inspiration on this break.”

Hoseok smiled in such a warm and genuine way that Taehyung felt genuinely touched. It had been years since he picked up a camera - since he got his job as a nurse, he just never had the time or the energy to go out and take pictures any more. Now, with Hoseok’s approval, he was finally going to start again. He looked at Hoseok and felt his insides warm. He was growing very fond of Hoseok very quickly. He could see exactly what Yoongi was talking about back at the hospital, and was keen to explore further. 

Taehyung got out his airpods and synced them up to his phone. He offered Hoseok an ear bud, which he gratefully accepted. The dulcet tones of Etta James began to play and Taehyung visibly relaxed.

“I never had you down as a jazz fan,” Hoseok started. “I’m learning more about you by the second.”

“Whilst Hyolyn is literally the love of my life, Etta James is just an icon for the ages. Besides, if I put Sistar on now, I literally would not be able to control myself and would be doing the choreo and as much fun as that would be, I don’t want to jostle your knee.”

Hoseok giggled at the seriousness of the tone, then sank down in his seat a little more. They settled into a brief comfortable silence, but soon they ignored Etta in favour of learning more about each other. Conversation flowed so easily between them, it was like they had known each other all their lives.

After the first two hours of the journey, the conversation started to slow again, with replies from Taehyung growing shorter with greater intervals between them. After a particularly long silence, Hoseok felt a little thud on his shoulder. He looked over and Taehyung had fallen asleep, his head gently falling sideways until it found a place on Hoseok’s shoulder. 

Hoseok watched Taehyung’s chest rise and fall, his own chest tightening as he watched a curl of soft brown hair fall over Taehyung’s face. With each small puff of breath out, the hair fluttered slightly. Hoseok was close enough to count each of the long, beautiful eyelashes fanning over the apples of Taehyung’s cheeks and he’d never felt inclined to count someone’s eyelashes before but, he supposed, there was a first time for everything. Hoseok absently wondered when the last time Taehyung had taken time off work was, when he had last done something for him and not for the benefit of the people around him. He decided against waking him, letting him catch up on sleep. 

There was a slight bump in the road and Taehyung stirred slightly, snuffling and moving his head, briefly half-opening one eye, before readjusting and snuggling into Hoseok’s neck again. This is it, thought Hoseok, I can never move again. It’s like I’ve been chosen by a cat. He pulled out his phone and briefly considered taking a selfie before deciding that would be incredibly weird, so settled for catching up on emails and listening to Etta James. 

Two hours later, the car pulled gently into the hotel car park in Busan. Hoseok had told Soobin that Taehyung was asleep and so Soobin had taken extra care to make the journey as gentle as possible. Once the car stopped, Taehyung didn’t stir and Hoseok made no move to wake him. Sure, there had been a slowly-growing patch of drool on the shoulder of his Louis Vuitton sweater, but sweaters could be dry cleaned, it’s not every day you have an angel fall asleep on your shoulder. 

Suddenly, the door of the car was pulled back. “Hobariii, how was yo-” Jimin started, but was cut off by shushing. He looked at the scene in front of him and his eyes widened slightly. “Aaaaaaaw, the puppy fell asleep!” Jimin cooed. 

“Yes, and nobody is gonna wake him up, do you hear me?” Hoseok whispered, leaning as far away from Taehyung as was possible without moving. 

“I think you might live to regret that statement, Hoseokie hyung - I’ve known Taehyungie hyung for years now and he’s a really heavy sleeper.” Jeongguk paused, “He’s also a cuddler but, well, I guess you found that out for yourself. I’m surprised his arms aren’t all the way around you, he does that a lot.”

This new piece of information was absolutely devastating to Hoseok. He filed it away in the back of his mind as he shifted slightly in his seat. “You guys check us into the hotel, I’m gonna sit here until he wakes up.”

“Alright but we can’t stick around too long - Jeongukkie and I are having a family dinner tonight.” Jimin beams up at Jeongguk, who looks equally smitten back at him. 

“So soon?” Hoseok whispered.

“When you know, you know.” Jeongguk said, not taking his eyes off Jimin, both of them grinning at each other. 

“You two are disgusting,” Taehyung says through a yawn, picking his head up off of Hoseok’s shoulder. “Seriously, if the next four weeks are gonna be like this, I’m going home.” he stretched and yawned extra wide. 

“Says the person who drooled all over Hoseok hyung’s shoulder” Jimin said without looking away from Jeongguk. 

Taehyung let out a strangled noise and looked at Hoseok’s shoulder. They both started blushing and apologising to each other, tripping each other up with their words. 

Jimin raised an eyebrow. “And you say we’re disgusting.” 

“And I stand by that” 

“Well, we’re gonna go be disgusting at my parent’s house. See you tomorrow for the rehearsal!” Jimin grabbed Jeongguk’s hand and pulled him away, Jeongguk waving casually over his shoulder. 

“He was supposed to check us in!” Hoseok whined, causing Taehyung to giggle. 

“Hyung, we can do it. How’s your knee feeling? Have you tried to put any weight on it recently?”

Hoseok got out of the car and stretched his leg out. He winced slightly before gingerly putting his foot on the floor. “It’s not great, but it certainly feels better than it was.”

“Hmm. Would you like to go out with me tonight? I can buy you dinner, then we can go for a walk and test out your knee. You bring your crutches, I’ll bring my cameras.” Taehyung asked. 

Hoseok mock gasped. “Kim Taehyung, are you asking me out on a date?”

Not for the first time that day, Taehyung blushed furiously. “I- I guess? I just, I wanted to thank you for bringing me… I don’t have any expectations, I just. It’s a big - it means a lot to me? And I can help!” Taehyung stuttered over his words, wringing his hands.

It was Hoseok’s turn to giggle. “I’m kidding, Taehyungie. I’d love to go on a date with you. Pick me up at seven.”

“Perfect. Now, let’s get you checked in. I want to examine your knee before we go out.” 

Three hours later, Taehyung was all checked into his suite in the hotel and was almost ready for their first date. He had been out into Busan and found a local florist, picking up a bouquet of brightly coloured flowers for Hoseok. He had never bought anyone flowers for a first date before, and he thought it was fitting that the first thing he bought Hoseok was flowers as beautiful as he was. He was still absolutely stunned that a man as beautiful, warm and kind as Hoseok had invited him along with them for this trip. He decided he must have saved a small village in his past life and was being rewarded in this one. 

Taehyung had decided on a simple outfit for their outing - a dark red v neck sweater tucked into cream slacks with some simple hoop earrings and a bracelet. He looked nice but not like he was trying too hard. He ran his hands through his curly hair. He had considered styling it, but figured the sea breeze would probably have other ideas so decided against it. 

He was still absolutely astounded that he had an entire suite to himself, not just a room. He wandered through the little kitchen area through to the large living area. The bathroom was off to the left, with a huge walk in shower and a freestanding bath. In the bedroom was the biggest, comfiest looking bed Taehyung had ever seen. He had flopped down on it to check, sighing as his back hit the mattress. He had stood for a good fifteen minutes on the balcony, which came complete with a private hot tub. The balcony itself overlooked the beach. Taehyung bet that it was an incredible view at night, and he wondered if he could convince Hoseok to join him in it. 

Before he could ruminate further on the healing properties of heat, there was a knock at his door. He checked his watch - 6:19pm, still too early for him to pick up Hoseok - and walked quickly to the door. 

He opened it to find one of the hotel staff holding a garment bag and a jewellery box. Taehyung was too stunned to speak. 

“Mr Kim? These have just arrived in reception for you. I was under strict instruction to bring them to you immediately.” The lady - Miyeon, according to her name tag - held both items out to Taehyung, who accepted them without speaking. Miyeon bowed, then turned on her heels, walking back off towards the elevator. 

Once he had closed the door, Taehyung walked through to the bedroom, laid the garment bag flat on the bed and turned his attention to the jewellery box. It was a dark red box with Cartier embossed across the middle in gold. Taehyung could probably count the number of times he’d seen Cartier jewellery on one hand, and now he was apparently the owner of some?

He took a deep breath and opened the box. Inside, nestled on a black cushion, was a yellow gold necklace, a teddy bear pendant hanging from it. It was the cutest yet most expensive thing he’d seen in his life. He gently turned the box this way and that, admiring the way it caught the sun. He closed the lid and put the box in his satchel. 

He turned his attention to the garment bag. He unzipped it and almost dropped it. Inside the bag was the most gorgeous blazer Taehyung had ever seen. It was a black Alexander McQueen blazer, covered in different coloured flowers with a delicate white thread for the stems. Taehyung laid it gently back down on the bed and zipped the garment bag back up. He checked his watch and decided he could be a little early to go and pick Hoseok up. He grabbed his satchel and the bunch of flowers and left his room. 

He crossed the corridor then knocked on the door opposite his. After a few moments, the door swung open and Taehyung took in the man standing in front of him. Hoseok was dressed in a cream sweater with a bunny on the front, which was tucked into some grey jeans. Over the top, he had on a blue Borg jacket and a cute little navy blue beanie to top it all off. 

Hoseok’s face lit up at the sight of Taehyung. “You’re not wearing the blazer.” His mouth pinched down at the corners, turning his usual heart shaped smile into a tiny pout. 

“The blazer probably costs more than my car did. I can’t wear it outside. What if I ruin it?” 

Hoseok’s pout got more pronounced. “You’re not wearing the necklace either.”

“Ah, yes, I was hoping you’d put it on for me? Oh! Wait, take these.” Taehyung pulled the flowers out from behind his back, and the pout on Hoseok’s face disappeared. 

“Taehyung-ah, they’re so pretty. Nobody’s ever bought me flowers for a date before.” He put the bouquet to his face, inhaling deeply, hoping it would hide the smile and blush creeping onto his face. 

It did not. 

Hoseok put the flowers down and motioned for Taehyung to turn around. He did, taking the necklace out of his satchel as he turned. Hoseok reached for it and fastened it around Taehyung’s neck. 

“Why a teddy bear?” He asked, whispering for some reason. 

“Because you’re cuddly when you sleep.” Hoseok whispered back. 

Taehyung had absolutely no idea what to say to that, so just looked down and admired the way that the pendant sat perfectly in the v of his sweater. He extended his arm, and Hoseok took it. Hoseok let his door swing shut behind them and they headed for the elevator. 

Several hours later, after a delicious dinner at a small restaurant, the pair found themselves on the beach. The moon was high in the sky, stars out in their hundreds, and the waves were gently lapping against the shore.The world was quiet and it was just for them. Taehyung and Hoseok walked slowly together, alternating between talking and laughing at something they had said. Taehyung had his DSLR around his neck and his polaroid camera in his hand. He kept taking pictures of Hoseok when he wasn’t looking, enjoying the way his hyung looked against the lights of the city, and couldn’t help but think that Hoseok was the brightest light among them. Sometimes he took photos of Hoseok when he was looking, and if Hoseok noticed Taehyung staring at him through the camera viewfinder for a moment too long each time, then he didn’t say anything. 

At certain points, Hoseok stole a camera to take some pictures of his own. None of them were as artistically framed as Taehyung’s, but Taehyung assured them that it gave them their own individual charm. 

Eventually, they wound their way back to the hotel, and Taehyung noticed Hoseok had begun to limp. He stopped in his tracks, spinning Hoseok to face him. 

“Hyung, you’re limping. Get on my back - it’s not far to the hotel, I can give you a piggyback ride the rest of the way." Without waiting for confirmation, Taehyung manhandled Hoseok onto his back, jostled him into place, then resumed their walk to the hotel. 

Hoseok squeaked, but couldn’t argue - his knee was hurting, and even if he couldn’t take part in the practise the following day as a dancer, he still wanted to instruct. He supposed being carried was for the best, and if that meant that he had to be on the back of a beautiful, kind, and apparently strong as fuck nurse then so be it. He simply looped his arms around Taehyung’s shoulders and let himself be carried. 

Taehyung didn’t put Hoseok down again until they were inside the elevator. Hoseok then insisted he could limp the short distance from the elevator to his room. Taehyung asked if he could come in to look at Hoseok’s knee, which Hoseok agreed to. As they walked in, Hoseok picked up the flowers that he had hastily abandoned earlier in the night and went to put them in water. 

Taehyung grabbed the flowers out of his hands and redirected him toward the bed. Hoseok plopped himself down with a huff. “I can do things myself, you know.”

“I know, but you’re literally paying me to take care of you, so let me.” Taehyung pulled out his medical bag. “Besides, I brought someone with me to see you.” 

At this, Hoseok gave Taehyung a quizzical look. It didn’t last long, though, as Taehyung revealed the mystery guest. “MR BEAR!” Hoseok squealed and made grabby hands towards the little stuffed animal. “You REMEMBERED!” 

Taehyung beamed , his mouth pulling up into the wide boxy smile that Hoseok was so incredibly fond of. Okay wow, it’s genuinely not fair for someone to be that handsome . 

“I could say the same about you, y’know.” Taehyung laughed. 

“Come again?” 

“You called me handsome, I was just-”

“Oh noooo, I said the inside thought out loud again didn’t I?” Hoseok buried his face in Mr Bear’s fur and leaned back into the head board. 

Taehyung laughed again, pulling up the leg of Hoseok’s jeans. He prodded and poked at Hoseok’s knee before getting out some pain relief gel and an instant ice pack. Taehyung uncapped the gel and poured a generous amount into his hands, then massaged it into Hoseok’s knee. Once he was done, he applied the ice pack and went to wash his hands. He came back after a moment or so. “As usual, leave that on for a little while, flex your knee occasionally. Don’t stay up too late, you have a long day tomorrow.”

Hoseok’s face emerged from Mr Bear’s fur as he looked at Taehyung, who was packing up the medical bag. He slid it against the wall out of the way. “Thank you, Taehyung. For everything so far. For taking care of me, for making me laugh, for the best first date I’ve been on in a long time, for bringing Mr Bear, just… thank you.”

Taehyung stood, then smiled down at Hoseok gently. “Hey, it’s what you’re paying me for.”

Hoseok’s face faltered at this. Right, he thought, I am paying him. He shook his head a little and smiled again. As he smiled up at Taehyung, a huge yawn crept up on him.

Taehyung chuckled affectionately. “Get some sleep, I’ll see you tomorrow. Meet you for breakfast?”

Hoseok hummed his assent, and Taehyung turned to leave. With a little wave, he let himself out of Hoseok’s suite, closing the door behind him. 

I am so fucked , Hoseok thought to himself as he draped Mr Bear over his face again.

🍭

“Jiminie, you’re off beat. Yeonjun-ah, you need to tighten up on the turn. Yugyeommie, roll your shoulders a little more.  Hyoyeon noona, you’re perfect, keep going.” Hoseok stalked around the room correcting form, footwork, posture and posing, counting the beats out 

“Is he always like this?” Taehyung asked Jeongguk out of the corner of his mouth.

Jeongguk huffed a breath out of his nose. “It varies, but Dance Leader Jung is a different person to the Hoseokie hyung we know and love. He has eyes everywhere, he sees everything. There is no mercy from Dance Leader Jung, no hiding from his gaze, and he remembers everything. If he catches you making a mistake, you better not make the same mistake again. He takes everything so seriously, because he wants them all to be the best that they can be. And to be fair, they are.”

Hoseok started the track again from the beginning and, as the opening beats of the song flooded the room, Taehyung could see what Jeongguk meant. Each dancer moved with such precision that was so practised it looked like the easiest thing in the world. 

The song finished and the dancers bent to catch their breath. Jimin’s head snapped up- as he walked over to where Jeongguk and Taehyung were sitting with their backs to the mirrored wall. “Taehyung-ah, my darling soulmate, can you please hurry up and fuck this man so he’ll loosen up a little, we’re dying out here.”

Jeongguk barked out a laugh and Taehyung went a previously undiscovered shade of red. “I’m. I don’t think that’s part of the agreement we have…”

“Well do something then, because he’s riding our asses harder than usual. I thought being injured would calm him down a little but I was mistaken. ”

“Jimin-ah, get your cute little butt back over here, we’re moving on to the next song.” Hoseok barked the order without looking at them. Jimin made a pleading face at Taehyung. 

Taehyung pushed himself up off the floor, dusting his track pants off “I’ll see what I can do.” He walked over to Hoseok and gently took him by the elbow as he was fiddling with the music. 

Hoseok whirled around, a look of thunder on his face initially, before it melted away at the sight of Taehyung smiling fondly at him. “Hyung, do you wanna go out again tonight? You’re not limping as much today, I think the exercise is helping.”

Hoseok’s shoulders came down from near his ears, he rolled his neck and let out a deep sigh. “Yes please Taehyung-ah. I think the pressure is getting to me.”

“YOU THINK?” Jimin yelled from halfway across the room. Taehyung couldn’t help but chuckle. 

The rest of the day passed uneventfully. At some point, Taehyung and Jeongguk offered to go out and grab lunch for everyone and they had a picnic on the dance room floor.

After rehearsals, Hoseok went up to his room to shower and change, then he accompanied Taehyung for a walk through the town, cameras in tow. They ducked into different tourist shops, picking out awful hats for each other to try on and giggling at each other. Hoseok couldn't help but notice that Taehyung looked good in literally everything he put on, and he decided that was incredibly unfair. 

"You look good in everything too, hyung." Taehyung said whilst Hoseok was spinning around a rack of postcards. "Don't sell yourself short."

Hoseok froze, fingers hovering over some little trinkets on a shelf. 

"Yes, you said the inside thought out loud again." Taehyung giggled. 

Hoseok whined. 

Taehyung came over and grabbed Hoseok by the hand, lacing their fingers together. "Come on, hyung, let's go take some more photos. We haven't seen the Coastal Tunnel yet." 

Taehyung tugged gently on Hoseok's hand and led them out of the little shop, waving at the shopkeeper with his free hand. 

Friday arrived, the day of the first Busan concert. Dance Leader Jung was out in full force and nothing anyone could say or do would bring Hoseokie Hyung back. The show went off without a hitch - the dancers were incredible, the crowd was electric, nobody was injured, so everyone went out for dinner to celebrate. The general mood was high, but Hoseok was an interesting mix between ecstatic and despondent. 

In a moment of quiet, Taehyung reached over to take Hoseok’s hand under the table and gave it a reassuring squeeze. “Hyung, you know this isn’t your fault, right?

“But that’s just it, Taehyung-ah, it is my fault. I kept dancing on an injury when I should have come off stage. I knew it, I just didn’t want to.”

“We all make terrible decisions in the heat of the moment, hyung, but what’s important is how you deal with those decisions. You’re still doing the best that you can, and with the progress your knee is making, you should be back on stage in another week or so.”

Hoseok looked Taehyung in the eyes, as if searching for any hint of a lie or exaggeration. Finding none, he exhaled. “I know, Taehyung-ah. I do. And I’m excited for everyone else, they’re all doing amazingly well, and I don’t begrudge them any of this. I’m just. Having to deal with some complicated feelings that I feel bad for having in the first place, considering this is all my fault. I feel like I can’t talk to people about it because they-” Hoseok cut himself off as his breathing had become heavier and he could feel the familiar sensation of his throat becoming tight and tears pricking at his eyes. He closed his eyes and took some deep breaths. 

“Hyung, do you wanna get out of here? It’s a nice night, I’m sure everyone will understand.” Taehyung started gathering up their things as Hoseok continued to take some deep breaths. “Hey, Mimi, Gukkie, we’re gonna head out. Hoseokkie hyung needs to do his knee exercises.” 

The two turned to look at Hoseok and noticed his posture. “Sure thing Taetae, we’ll see you both tomorrow!” Jimin smiled, reaching over to hug Taehyung, then standing to hug Hoseok. Jimin squeezed Hoseok extra tight, then let go. “You better do your exercises diligently, Hobari, we need you back on the stage. We can do this without you, but it isn’t the same. We don’t want to do this without you.”

“Yeah! Go kick your knee’s ass… or, something.” Jeongguk finished, also enveloping Hoseok in a hug. 

Hoseok chuckled weakly and breathed deeply. “Thanks guys, here’s my card - put the bill on there. The least I can do is pay for your dinner after bouncing early.”

Jimin pushed Hoseok’s card back at him. “The least you can do is get better. So, go do that. I love you hyungie.”

Hoseok gave Jimin a watery smile before being led out of the restaurant by Taehyung. They wandered towards the beach and sat down together. 

“Wanna talk about it?” Taehyung asked without looking at Hoseok. He took his shoes and socks off and dug his toes in the sand. Hoseok did the same. 

After a stretch of silence where both men simply watched the waves beat against the shore, Hoseok spoke. “I feel a weird mix between pride, sadness, envy and guilt. Like, I’m so happy that we’re on this tour and that I’m here with the people that mean the most to me in the world, but I fucked it up by injuring myself, and there’s no-one to blame for that but me. And I’m so envious of the people on stage, even though I shouldn’t be because I literally did this to myself. And to top it all off I feel guilty for feeling envious. I shouldn’t feel envious of my friends, I should just feel proud of them. But I can’t help it. I feel like I can’t talk about this with people because they’ll tell me it’s my own fault or tell me to just get over it, but I can’t and it’s hard.” Hoseok sniffled and Taehyung gently had Hoseok lean his head on his shoulder. 

“You don’t have to get over it, you just have to get through it. It’s different. And you can get through it with me, and with Jimin, and with Jeongguk. You know they’d never judge you for feeling this way.” Taehyung wrapped a comforting arm around Hoseok’s middle and pulled him closer to his side as the sea breeze picked up. “Feelings don’t make sense, but we’ll get through them together.”

Hoseok sniffed but stayed silent. He watched the sea and let himself be held. Eventually he shivered and shifted. “My ass is cold.”

Taehyung giggled and pushed himself up, extending his hand for Hoseok. “Come on, let’s get you back to the hotel so we can actually do your exercises. And y’know. Warm your ass up.”

“I can think of a couple of ways.”

“Jung Iris Hoseok, are you flirting with me?”

“Oh, so nice of you to finally notice. Man, I have to up my game.”

Taehyung affectionately bumped shoulders with Hoseok as they both giggled. Their hands found each other, fingers linking together in the darkness as they made their way back to the hotel. 

🍭

The day after the Busan show, they left for the airport and began the international part of the tour. They flew into Hong Kong first for a two night stay, and the days passed as they had in Korea. Dance practises during the day, concerts in the evenings, and then Taehyung and Hoseok spending time together after the shows.

They didn’t always go for walks out of the hotel - sometimes they were content just to stay in, order room service and be in each others’ company. 

On their last day in Hong Kong, Taehyung suggested to Hoseok that he try out some of the simpler choreography in practise, so he can see how his knee was feeling. 

“You’re not limping as much any more and you haven’t used your crutches in a few days. I think it would be sensible to try out some simple routines now, don’t you agree Jeongukkie?”

Jeongguk walked over to Hoseok and dropped himself on his ass. He picked up Hoseok’s leg and began to manipulate it this way and that, gauging Hoseok’s reaction. Finding nothing adverse, Jeongguk pushed himself up again and agreed that gentle practising would probably do his knee some good. 

“But Taehyungie hyung and I will be watching you like a hawk. Well. Taehyungie will. I will be watching Jimin with equal measure, but much more attentively.”

“I should think so, too.” Jimin said, walking past at that moment and patting Jeongguk affectionately on his ass. “I am absolutely thrilled that you’re gonna be joining us in practise again, Hobari. These shows haven’t been the same without you on stage.” Jimin squeezed Hoseok’s forearm gently before going to find a spot to stretch in. Hoseok gave a nervous look at Jeongguk and Taehyung and then went off to join Jimin. 

Once the other dancers saw Hoseok warming up, excited cheers filled the room. 

Hoseok stood and asked Taehyung to queue up the first track. Taehyung gave a reassuring nod, then stood back. 

Hoseok made it through five songs of the set in total, and he was absolutely thrilled with himself. He ran up to Taehyung and threw himself into the nurse’s outstretched arms as everyone else began to file out of the practice room. 

“Careful now, Dance Leader, this is the first time in a few weeks you’ve danced on that knee. We probably need to get it iced and elevated to avert any swelling we might have caused.”

“I know, I know, but I’m just. I’m so happy to be dancing again.” 

“I’m gonna be a party pooper and say you’re not allowed to dance in tonight’s show, but we’re certainly working up to it.” Taehyung said, a stern but affectionate look on his face.

Hoseok nodded. He went quiet for a second, seemingly lost in thought. Eventually, he piped up, “Hey Taehyung-ah, if you don’t mind missing tonight’s show, I have an idea for something we can do together. Don’t worry, there’s no walking involved.”

Taehyung raised an eyebrow, but eventually nodded. “I’m still going to bring some medical supplies in my bag, just in case.” 

Hoseok giggled. “Fine, but you have to wear the blazer I bought you.” 

Taehyung whined and rolled his eyes “But hyung, that thing is so expensive! I feel like if I looked at it too long it would disintegrate!” 

“Expensive fashion is meant to be worn and enjoyed, Taehyungie. Besides, if it does disintegrate, hyung will buy you another one.”

“I am never going to get to spend any of the money you’re giving me at this rate.”

“Oh good, he finally catches the point!” 

A few hours later, Taehyung is putting the finishing touches to his outfit. He has on mustard coloured slacks, a plain white t-shirt tucked in, and the Alexander McQueen blazer. The pants are cinched by a simple black belt, and Taehyung makes a point of making sure the teddy bear necklace is visible over his t-shirt. It hangs perfectly in place. 

There is a knock at his door, so he goes to let Hoseok in. Instead of Hoseok, he is greeted by one of the hotel staff asking him to make his way down to the lobby. 

Once he’s in the lobby, he sees Hoseok waiting for him in an outfit that makes him look like the cutest tiniest marshmallow Taehyung has ever seen. He’s wearing oversized cream trousers, with a huge pink hoodie over the top, and a long cream trench coat over the top of the hoodie, finished off with his signature heart shaped smile. He waves Taehyung over and takes his hand. 

“Come on Taehyungie, no time to waste. We have a driver waiting outside!” Hoseok pulls Taehyung through the revolving door of the hotel and down the steps. The driver has the back passenger door open waiting for them and as they get themselves comfortable the driver slips behind the wheel. 

“You wore the necklace?” Hoseok says quietly once the car is moving. 

“I’ve never taken it off.” Taehyung squeezed Hoseok’s hand tighter. He looked over at Hoseok, mouth drawing up into the boxy smile he knew Hoseok was so fond of. 

Once again, Hoseok felt his heart clench in his chest. It’s a good job I’m falling in love with a nurse, he can probably help me when he causes my cardiac arre- wait. Did I just think the L word. Am I? Do I? 

“Hobi hyung, I can hear you thinking from here.” Taehyung interrupted. “Care to share what’s on your mind?”

Hoseok squeaked. “Did my inside thoughts stay inside this time?”

Taehyung laughed. “They did, but your face looks a little pinched. If you’re having a problem, you can always tell me, you know that.” he shifted slightly in his seat to look properly at Hoseok. 

“No no, no problem at all, why would I be having a problem, everything is perfectly normal and nobody is feeling anything out of the ordinary.”

Taehyung blinked. 

Hoseok blinked.

“... Right. Well. As long as you’re not having a problem.”

“Oh would you look at that we’re here!” Hoseok said loudly, even for him. 

“A... dock? Hoseok, are we going on a boat?”

“You’re SO smart, no wonder you passed medical school.” Hoseok deadpanned as he opened the door and pulled Taehyung through it. “It’s just down the pier, let’s go!” 

Taehyung quickly pulled out his retro camera and snapped a picture of Hoseok’s back, his hand in Taehyung’s, leading him through the crowds with the sun setting in the background. It was a simple shot, probably likely to come out a little blurry, but Taehyung knew it would be one of his favourites when it was developed. 

They made it down the pier to an empty boat at the end. Not just any boat though; a traditional Chinese Junk boat. Taehyung stopped in his tracks, absolutely unable to speak. Hoseok was pulled backwards by Taehyung’s sudden halt. “What’s wrong, Taehyungie?”

Taehyung opened and closed his mouth a few times. “I can’t believe this.” 

“This, this is where you draw the line of disbelief? I offered to fly you to LA because you wanted a burger.”

“I thought you were joking!”

“I never joke about In-N-Out. Come on, the captain is waiting for us.”

“...Why is the captain waiting for us, are we the last ones to board?”

“Last, also first. Also only.”

“You rented the whole boat?”  

Hoseok waved his free hand around and began to tug at Taehyung’s hand again. “Come on Taehyungie, we’re gonna be late, I hate being late.” 

Taehyung relented and began to follow Hoseok on board the boat. They were greeted by the captain personally and told they could sit anywhere they liked. After a safety talk, which they listened to intently, they set sail.

Hoseok chattered excitedly the whole way. Their destination was Lantau Islands, and during the trip they were to visit Cheung Sha Beach, do some stargazing under the stunning evening sky before taking a transfer back to end their tour. 

Taehyung was, mostly, speechless. He could not believe he was getting to experience something so beautiful. It was surely a once in a lifetime experience. He wanted to document it as much as possible. He asked Hoseok to pose for some photos, some he took candidly, but once the sun completely set he put his cameras away and just enjoyed being there with Hoseok. 

Hoseok had wandered to the bow of the boat, which was surprising because Hoseok was scared of boats, and water, and falling in water, and things being in the water. Taehyung made his way up behind him, wrapped his arms around Hoseok’s waist and rested his chin on Hoseok’s shoulder. 

Hoseok startled a bit, but soon settled and leaned back into Taehyung’s arms. 

“Thank you.” Hoseok said quietly. 

“ Me? ” Taehyung said incredulously, leaning forward to look at Hoseok. “I should be the one thanking you. Thanks to you, I not only have a new friend for life in the form of Jimin, but you’ve brought me along with you on the trip of a lifetime, and as a bonus I get to spend my time with possibly the greatest person I’ve ever met… but don’t tell Jimin I said that.” 

Hoseok giggled, turned his head and looked at Taehyung. “I’m not sure you understand what you’ve done for me. But that’s okay.”

Taehyung had no idea what to say to that, so settled for resting his head back on Hoseok’s shoulder. Hoseok didn’t turn his face away immediately, studying Taehyung’s face up close. 

“Sing to me? That song you sang in the hospital. Sing it to me again?”

“I’m surprised you remember that, given the amount of pain relief you were on.” Taehyung went quiet for a moment, then began to sing. 

“ She looks like a blue parrot, would you come fly to me? I want some good day, good day, good day good day, good day…”

Hoseok all but melted into Taehyung’s arms. He watched the stars go by as Taehyung continued to sing. 

After the song ended, Taehyung chuckled a little. “You know what’s funny? I wrote that song. It’s called Winter Bear.”

Hoseok’s mouth dropped open into a little o. He didn’t want to press for information, so he just waited. 

“I wrote it at a time in my life where… everything sucked. I’m not going to bore you with the details, but everything was hard for months. But this song was a comfort to me. I sing it sometimes to my patients as I hope it can be a comfort to them, and now I guess it’s a comfort to you, too. The bear thing is funny though.”

Hoseok was pretty sure he felt his heart grow three sizes in his chest as he listened to Taehyung. He turned his face back to Taehyung again. 

Taehyung’s face didn’t move. 

They were mere centimetres apart. The world may as well have melted away, as Hoseok was pretty sure they were the only ones in the world right now. 

Hoseok’s heart beat faster, his palms were sweaty and his breathing sped up. He started at Taehyung. For the barest moment, Taehyung’s eyes flicked down to Hoseok’s mouth, and that was all the sign he needed. 

Hoseok very carefully leaned forwards and pressed their lips together. They both inhaled sharply, but neither pulled away. The kiss was feather light at first, sweet and chaste, both of them feeling each other out. 

Taehyung was the first to pull away. “Oh thank God .” he said before leaning back down and capturing Hoseok’s lips again in a much more forceful way. Hoseok turned in Taehyung’s arms and threaded his arms around the nurse’s neck, lacing his fingers together. Taehyung wrapped his arms more tightly around Hoseok’s waist, one hand staying on his waist, the other holding his back. 

They kissed in an unhurried way, exploring each other, finding out what each other liked. Hoseok tilted his head and nipped at Taehyung’s lower lip, eliciting a small moan from Taehyung before he parted his lips. Hoseok filed that one away for later as his tongue dipped inside Taehyung’s mouth. Taehyung sucked on Hoseok’s tongue firmly, and Hoseok was incredibly glad Taehyung had hold of him because all the strength in his legs left him and he made a sound he was unsure he’d ever made before. 

Taehyung pulled back at that, looking at Hoseok with a shit-eating grin. “I’ll remember that one for later.” 

“Oh, you. You’re trouble. I like that in a guy.” 

“I bet that’s not the only thing you like in a guy, huh Hoseokie hyung?” Taehyung’s grin widened. 

“Kimberley Elizabeth Taehyung, we are in public , but so help me god if you carry on running your mouth like that I will ask the captain to kindly avert his eyes.”

“Oh, I finally got my English Old Lady name!” Taehyung said with more excitement than was probably warranted given the situation. 

“That’s what we’re focussing on right now? Okay. Okay I see how it is. You kiss me to within an inch of my life but the Old Lady nam- okay.” He dramatically stepped out of Taehyung’s arms and began to walk back across the deck “You rent an entire boat for a romantic cruise to try and win the heart of the guy you like, but no, he’s too bothered by a nickname. I see how it is.” 

Taehyung laughed a deep baritone laugh and chased after Hoseok, scooping him back into his arms, kissing him deeply again, smiling into the kiss. Hoseok chalks it up as one of the top ten best moments of his life. 

🍭

The next morning, they met for breakfast before leaving for the airport. Jimin slid into the booth next to Hoseok whilst Jeongguk and Taehyung went to go and order. 

“You’re looking especially chirpy this morning, Hoseokie hyung.” Jimin said as he picked up his coffee cup. “Tell me - did Taehyung finally put an end to the dancers’ suffering?”

Hoseok spluttered into his own coffee. “Jesus Jimin-ah.” He cleared his throat and dabbed at his face with a napkin. “If you mean did we fuck, no we did not, but I did have the best date of my entire life, so there’s that. That man kisses like he’s dying, it’s truly an experience.” 

Jimin raised his eyebrows “Wow, Kim Taehyung, I never knew he had it in him.”

“Not yet, anyway.”

It was Jimin’s turn to splutter into his coffee. “Christ, Hoseok, warn a guy.” 

“Where’s the fun in that?”

🍭

The days passed like this; dance practice during the day, with Hoseok’s knee getting stronger by the day, concerts in the evenings, and then Taehyung and Hoseok spending the rest of their time together. It was even better on their off days, spending them entirely together or with Jimin and Jeongguk. 

The destinations changed - Hong Kong to Beijing, Beijing to Shanghai, Shanghai to Bangkok, and finally Tokyo, where the first leg of the Asian tour ended. 

Hoseok orchestrated beautiful dates in each place. He took them all to Happy Valley amusement park in Beijing, a dinner experience with an acrobatics show in Shanghai, a night under the stars in Bangkok. With every passing date, every passing day , Hoseok could feel himself falling further down the rabbit hole that was Kim Taehyung. 

Had he not been sure before, he was now absolutely adamant that he was in love with Taehyung. He would do absolutely anything to see him smile. He hoped Taehyung felt the same, but in between all the dates and practises, they hadn’t actually had a chance to sit and talk about anything. 

Well, that’s not strictly true, Hoseok supposed to himself. He could just think of other things he’d rather be doing. 

That being said, the sliver of doubt caused by the lack of communication began to eat at Hoseok. He would never let Taehyung know, but unfortunately for Hoseok, Taehyung was not the only 95 liner he had to worry about on this tour. 

“Spill the beans, Hobari.” Jimin said on their first day in Japan. Taehyung and Jeongguk had gone off exploring around the city centre together, armed with Taehyung’s cameras, leaving Jimin and Hoseok to explore the hotel’s spa facilities together. “I’ve literally never seen you like this before and I’ve known you since I was born.” 

“You’ve known me for like nine years-”

“Since I was born, Hoseokie .” Jimin insisted, and they laughed, Jimin’s eyes turning into little crescent moons. 

Hoseok examined Jimin in that moment, really looked at him, and he could completely understand what Jeongguk found so loveable about him. Not only was he completely stunning, but he had the personality and the emotional intelligence to match. He was so empathetic and caring, as well as being smart, athletic and hot as hell. 

“Stop staring at me, you’re giving me the creeps” Jimin said to break the silence.

“I’m in love with him, Jiminie.” Hoseok says quietly, out of nowhere, not looking Jimin in the face, focussed on his hands in front of him. “He feels… special. Like. Like a box of love letters and songs kept from great loves of ages past. His heart is like a music box, playing the chorus of the sweetest song ever known. He’s the kind of person who people write love stories about, except nobody believes they’re real because how could they? How could such a person be real? He’s so close to being both tangible and intangible at the same time.” 

Hoseok paused and finally looked at Jimin, who simply looked back at him, wordlessly, prompting him to continue. 

“He feels like picnics on a warm summer’s night. Stolen moments under starlight. He’s both a firework and a bonfire. He's comfort and safety and security and warmth whilst also being excitement and fun and childish wonder and enthusiasm. He's romantic, he's nostalgic, but he's new. And I'm so hopelessly in love with him.” Hoseok started to tear up. Jimin reached over and wiped his tears away, drawing his hyung to his chest. 

“Loving him is scary because it's so easy and so wonderful and when I don't have it any more, I know I’ll never be the same. Like I’m changed. For the better, of course. But there's no one like him. I am so scared to tell him in case I lose him, Jiminie.”

Jimin looked at Hoseok with confusion on his face. “Why would you lose him, hyung?”

“Because of this… arrangement! What if that’s all it is? What if it doesn’t mean the same to him as it does to me? What if I tell him and it all goes to shit because I crossed a line and fell in love?”

Jimin gently turned Hoseok’s head to face him, and he looked at him with the warmest, kindest expression Hoseok had seen in a while. 

“My darling hyung. Sure, you could tell him you love him and it could all go to shit. But my Hoseokie-hyung, what if you fall in this together? Wouldn’t that be spectacular?” 

Jimin pressed the softest of kisses to Hoseok’s forehead. 

“If I know my soulmate, and I like to think that I do, then he is just as in love as you are. You should tell him.” Jimin stood to leave, not letting go of Hoseok’s hand. He gave it a tight squeeze. “Besides, the whole mutual pining thing is literally giving me a headache, and I have a bet going with Jeonggukkie, so if you could hurry up and confess by the time we get to night three in Tokyo you’ll make me ₩50,000 richer”

Hoseok dropped Jimin’s hand like it had burnt him, and hit out at him. “You’re the fucking worst Park Jimin. Here I am baring my soul to you and you tell me that you and your goober of a boyfriend have a fucking bet riding on my love life?”

Jimin screeched out a giggle and ran away from Hoseok, which was kind of difficult to do in a spa. Eventually he turned, grabbed hold of Hoseok and sent them both tumbling into the pool. 

They both came up for air at the same time, and Jimin drew Hoseok to him again, kissing him on the head. “Tell him, you silly thing. I’ve seen the way he looks at you. You’re not as alone in this as you think you are.” Jimin let go of Hoseok to float on his back in the pool. 

Hoseok splashed him and got out. 

🍭

The last night in Tokyo arrived all too quickly. Hoseok’s knee had been getting better by the day, and progressively he was spending more time on stage during the actual shows. Taehyung and Jeongguk agreed that he could try the full concert for the last day of the tour, as they reasoned that if he injured himself again, he’d have another two months to recover.

Hoseok had decided to schedule another date for after the show. He decided to text Taehyung, as he was currently a 177cm bundle of nerves and he didn’t trust himself not to trip over his words or think himself into a crisis.

☀️🕺

10:04am

Taehyungie! (*^ω^)ﾉ

How are you?

Look at all this sunshine we’re having, huh?

(づ ◕‿◕ )づ

🐻

10:05am

Who are you and what have you done with my Hoseokie hyung?🤨

Hoseok breathed out. He was being weird and he knew he was. You can do this Hoseok. You’re just asking him out again. No big deal .

Except, yes big deal. 

☀️🕺

10:07am

(シ_ _)シ

Sorry

I was wondering if you were doing anything after the concert tonight?

🐻

10:08am

Ah, yeah I am. Sorry. 

I have a date. 

Hoseok’s heart fell out of his ass. Who the fuck was Taehyung seeing? When - How did this happen? 

Hoseok decided to play it as cool as he possibly could. 

☀️🕺

10:10am

A date? Oh! (°◡°)

Who’s the lucky guy? (°◡°)

(°◡°)

🐻

10:11am

Let’s see now.
He’s pretty tall but not taller than me, quite slim, one of the most beautiful men I’ve ever seen in my life actually.

He’s generous, some would say too generous. Thoughtful, kind, caring, absolutely hilarious. He has the most beautiful smile which makes me feel all warm inside. 

Not only that, but he’s an artist. Not a conventional one, he works with movement. But the way he moves is surely art. 

Hoseok wailed out loud. He couldn’t believe he’d lost out to someone who sounded so perfect.

☀️🕺

10:13am

He sounds amazing, Taehyungie. 

You deserve someone as perfect as you are.

Silence. Hoseok was sweating .

🐻

10:15am

You absolute fucking walnut, I can hear you thinking from across the hall. 

I’m talking about you, you complete wet wipe. 

The air wooshed out of Hoseok’s lungs all at once. His legs turned to jelly as he flopped down on the bed. 

☀️🕺

10:16am

Hahaahahahaha I knew that. ( /_＼)

Anyway. Meet me after the concert at the hotel. I've booked a place for us.

🐻

10:17am
When you say "place", do you mean table or restaurant or entire city?

☀️🕺

10:18am

(╯✧▽✧)╯

🐻

10:18am

... what should I wear?

☀️🕺

10:19am
Whatever you want (but definitely the necklace).
(⌒_⌒)

Hoseok slid his phone into his pocket and put the text exchange out of his mind for now. He had a return concert to think about before then.

Hoseok led the pre-show huddle that night. He kept it short and sweet, as he was sure everyone could feel the nerves rolling off him in waves, and he didn’t want to mess anyone up. 

The lights were down. They all ran into position. The crowd was screaming already. Hoseok could barely hear himself think. Then, the counts started coming through on his in-ears, and he refused to focus on anything else, any one else. He knew Taehyung and Jeongguk were out there in the crowd somewhere, but he couldn’t think about that for now. The counts and breathing, that’s all he needed.

The lights came up and everyone moved in sync, the opening notes of Bang Bang Bang ringing out across the stadium. Everyone started to clap in time. They were like a well-oiled machine, moving around the four members of Bigbang with practised ease. After what had happened during the first show, the group had decided to save the water until later on in the show, which Hoseok was immensely grateful for. 

Hoseok was too in the zone to look out into the crowd much. He was too busy looking at the other dancers, the members of the group, and testing out his knee. Thankfully, the latter was feeling great - he had medical tape on just in case, but Hoseok hadn’t felt it twinge at all.

Hoseok didn’t catch sight of Taehyung or Jeongguk until three songs into the set. He noticed Jeongguk’s embarrassing sign “Park Jimin, you’re cute as fuck!” on one side in the usual pink glitter pen and “Sit on my face!” on the other side. He caught Jimin’s eye and nodded towards his boyfriends. Jimin laughed and rolled his eyes, but then nodded his head back towards them. 

Hoseok noticed Taehyung next to Jeongguk, cheering like an absolute lunatic, also waving a sign in the air. “THAT’S MY SUNSHINE!” it said on one side. Hoseok quickly looked away before he could find out whether the sign was double sided or not. He didn’t need any further reasons to blush. 

The rest of the concert passed without incident or injury. Hoseok was pretty sure the team gave one of the best performances of their career. He and his team got personal thanks from Jiyong himself, and Hoseok got a hug from him. He was relatively certain he’d died and gone to heaven.

After the show, Hoseok hugged each member of his team and thanked them personally. The gifts that he had arranged for each person were brought out by the event staff, and he made at least four of the dancers cry. 

“Alright everyone, that was absolutely incredible work. You made me so proud to be your leader. Go and enjoy your nights - we’re all going out together tomorrow night, no buts! Also it’s on me. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go see a man about a bear.”

He gave Jimin a knowing look before bowing and making his way out of the venue. A driver was waiting for him and he hurriedly jumped in the back of the car. 

Less than an hour later, Hoseok made his way down to the lobby. He was wearing a purple velour jumpsuit, no shirt underneath, his hair coiffed to perfection. He debated on taking a jacket, but the weather was warm enough that he figured he wouldn’t need one. He bounced on the balls of his feet in the elevator, trying to jump some of the nerves out of his system.

When the elevator dinged and the doors drew back, he saw Taehyung was already waiting for him. 

He was absolutely breathtaking, in a green blazer with matching dress pants, a shirt and a tie with a tie pin. He’d styled his hair, but not overmuch - it was still wavy, but one side had been styled back. As always, the teddy bear necklace hung round his neck. 

“Taehyung-ah!” Hoseok called. Taehyung turned to look for him and as his eyes found him, they widened. 

Hoseok walked up to Taehyung and kissed him on the cheek. “You look beautiful, Taehyungie.”

“Oh you’re one to talk, Hobi hyung, you look incredible.” Taehyung stuck out his elbow, and Hoseok took it. 

“There’s a driver waiting for us. It’s not far.” Hoseok said quietly as they walked through the door and out of the hotel. Sure enough, a sleek black town car was waiting, door already opened. They climbed in the back and the car peeled away. 

After a short journey, they got out in front of an expensive looking restaurant. Hoseok extended his hand and Taehyung took it, and they walked in together. 

Sure enough, the place was empty except for them. The inside was bathed in soft lighting, gentle music playing from the speakers. Taehyung fixed Hoseok with a disbelieving stare, which Hoseok merely shrugged at. 

They sat at a table and were immediately served with drinks. 

“No need to look at a menu, Taehyungie, I’ve got this all planned out. We have a nine course tasting menu ahead of us. I just hope you’re hungry.”

Taehyung’s mouth fell open. 

“And you thought me hiring a boat for a few hours was extravagant.” Hoseok scoffed. 

The food was incredible. Taehyung had no other word for it. He’d never had food this good in his life ever before and seriously doubted he ever would again. He was still in utter disbelief that any of this was actually happening. If he didn’t have the numerous photographs across three cameras to prove it, he would have thought it was all some prolonged dream. 

Though, he supposed, being with Hoseok was kind of like that - a dream. Everything was effortless between them. Taehyung had never felt more comfortable around a person ever. Hoseok didn’t judge him for his weird little interests or his random bursts of energy, Hoseok didn’t mind him being very clingy and affectionate towards both Jimin and Jeongguk as well as Hoseok himself. Taehyung had never met a person who could make him laugh so easily, or for as long. He’d never met a person so unfailingly kind and supportive. He’d never met a person who just accepted people as quickly as Hoseok did. When Taehyung had written that Hoseok was his sunshine on his sign for the concert, it’s because he was. Hoseok was the literal embodiment of the sun and Taehyung wanted to bask in his glow forever. 

They finished up at the restaurant and turned to leave. Hoseok gave their thanks in fluent Japanese, a feat which Taehyung found incredibly sexy. Taehyung could barely remember any of his Japanese, and certainly not to the extent he would need to have the level of conversation Hoseok appeared to be having with the owner. 

When they got outside, Taehyung expected to see a car waiting for them, but instead Hoseok extended his hand and Taehyung took it. They turned right and began to walk. 

Taehyung was the first to break the silence. “You were amazing out there tonight, hyung. You would never even know that you’d had a sprained knee. I’ve never seen anyone move the way you do, it’s really incredible. You have this energy when you’re on stage - like, sure you’re technically a backing dancer, but it’s like you’re the main event. You draw people’s eyes to you because you look like you’re having the most fun in the world.”

Hoseok blushed, saying nothing. Taehyung loved making Hoseok blush. They turned another corner and Taehyung gasped.

They had arrived at the Meguro River, right in the middle of cherry blossom season. The cherry blossom trees created the most stunning canopy of pink petals, as far as the eye could see, all of which was lit up by sconces at regular intervals. Taehyung thought it was the most magical thing he had ever seen in his life. 

He felt a gentle pull on his hand, so he began to walk. He could feel Hoseok getting fidgety, so he started to rub soothing circles with his thumb on Hoseok's thumb. “What’s on your mind, sunshine?” Taehyung started. 

Hoseok looked up at Taehyung; he seemed to be in the midst of a thought, so Taehyung was patient. He knew Hoseok would speak when he’d finished thinking. 

“Taehyungie. Taehyung-ah. Kim Taehyung.” 

“Yes, yes and yes?” 

Hoseok cringed at himself. “These past few weeks with you have been incredible. I’ve never felt so at home around another person, so immediately trusting of another person. Don’t tell Jimin I said that.” 

They both chuckled, and then Hoseok continued. “I… need to tell you something, though.” Hoseok took a shaky breath and Taehyung’s forehead creased in concern. Hoseok noticed, and rushed to say “Ohh, it’s nothing bad! At least, I hope not. It could be, but it’s not for me, and I hope it’s not for you either, that is to say, I hope it is but that it’s not bad?” 

Taehyung looked bewildered. 

“I’m in love with you, Taehyung. These past few weeks - it’s become more than the arrangement of care, for me. I’m completely head over heels for you, and it’s okay if you don’t feel the same! This isn’t what we agreed on, I know. But I had to tell you. I can’t keep it from you any more when the doubt of not knowing whether you felt the same was eating me alive-”

Taehyung surged forward, bent his head ever so slightly and kissed Hoseok with an intensity he hoped conveyed his feelings. 

After a few moments, Taehyung pulled back. “Thankfully, I’ve also been in love with you this whole time. I’m pretty sure I started to fall for you the moment you rolled into my ER, but I knew for sure on the boat.”

“I knew the boat was a good idea.”

“Steady on, Jack Dawson, you spent half the night terrified of everything that moved.” They both laughed. “I need you to know, though, that I don’t love you for your money. I don’t love you for any of the things you’ve given me or done for me or with me. Sure those things are a nice bonus, but they’re not the reason I fell in love with you. I fell in love with the vulnerable little man sitting on the beach in Busan. I fell in love with the generous boss who looks after all of the people who work for him like they’re his family. Most importantly I fell in love with the silly bean who was so scared of needles I had to give him my teddy bear intended for children.”

“Mr Bear made everything better” Hoseok mumbled

“Yeah, and I’m surprised you don’t have him tucked down that jumpsuit of yours.”

“I tried, he wouldn’t fit”

“Colour me shocked, you barely fit into that thing, you look like you’ve been poured in, holy hell.”

Hoseok giggled and blushed. “Wait. Holy shit you’re in love with me too. You’re in love with me too?”

Taehyung looped his arms around Hoseok’s back, lifted him off the floor and kissed him under the cherry blossoms. Right at that moment a gentle breeze shook some petals from the trees around them, as if the wind itself was a paid actor. 

“How could I not be? How could I not fall in love with everything that you are? Jung Hoseok, I’m so in love with you and so help me god if you don’t let me take you out of that jumpsuit later I will cry.”

Hoseok sniggered. “If you keep undressing me with your eyes, I’m gonna catch a cold.”

“Then let’s get you back to the hotel so I can keep you warm.” Taehyung purred, his deep baritone sending shivers down Hoseok’s spine. 

Hoseok pulled a phone from god knows where and within a few minutes there was a driver waiting for them. Giggling, they all but fell into the back of the car. Hoseok insisted they keep themselves sensible whilst they were in the car, as the poor driver did not need to be traumatised by any of their antics. 

They arrived at the hotel and made their way up to Hoseok’s suite. By the time Taehyung kicked the door closed, Hoseok already had his hands under Taehyung’s shirt, mouth firmly clamped on his neck as he kissed a trail as far down as he could before he met collar. 

“How upset are you going to be if I rip this shirt from your body?” Hoseok questioned as he undid Taehyung’s blazer and pushed it off his shoulders so that it fell in a pool by his feet, then pulled off his tie shortly after. 

“Do it and find out” Taehyung challenged, jutting his chin out. 

Never having been one to back down from a challenge, Hoseok grabbed either side of the shirt and pulled as hard as he could. Buttons pinged off in all directions revealing Taehyung’s torso, his honey gold skin stretched on for what seemed like miles. 

“Kim Taehyung if you don’t get me to the bedroom right now I’-”

Hoseok never got to finish that sentence, as Taehyung put his arms under Hoseok’s thighs, hands on his ass and lifted him up. He kissed Hoseok as if he were trying to catch the little noises that left Hoseok’s mouth. Taehyung walked them over to the bedroom and then kicked the door closed behind them.

Later, they lay in bed, Hoseok’s head on Taehyung’s chest. Hoseok was fairly certain he was the luckiest person in the world.

“Hey, if my knee is healing, does that mean I have to keep coming up with reasons to keep you around to take care of me?”

Taheyung laughed and kissed the crown of Hoseok’s head. “Why, have you got any aches or pains you need me to take a look at?”

Hoseok looked up at Taehyung with a mischievous grin on his face. “Well, you see nurse, I have the most awful pain in my groin area, I think I need someone to kiss it better.” 

“Hmmm, pain in the groin? It could be a UTI, have you been drinking enough water recently? Do you have any other symptoms?” Taehyung sat up, looking at Hoseok seriously. 

“...What, I-”

“If it’s to one side, it could be a hernia, I should really examine you and take a thorough look…” Taehyung moved out from underneath Hoseok and threw the covers back on the bed. “Hold still, I’m just gonna examine your groin.”

“Kimberley Elizabeth Taehyung, I literally never thought I’d say this but get your hands away from my groin.” Hoseok tried to pull the covers back up over himself. 

Taehyung dissolved into laughter and flopped them both backwards onto the bed. He pinned Hoseok underneath him and kissed his forehead, each cheek, his chin and finally his nose. “I love you, Jung Iris Hoseok.”

“I love you too, Kimberley Elizabeth Taehyung.”

🍭

The following morning, Hoseok and Taehyung met Jimin and Jeongguk for breakfast in the hotel. Jimin and Jeongguk arrived first and grabbed a table, with Hoseok and Taehyung arriving a few moments later, hand in hand. 

Jeongguk’s face pinched a little in concern. “Hoseokie hyung, you’re walking kind of funny, did something happen to your knee last night?” 

Hoseok flushed so red it was a wonder there was any blood in the rest of his body. “No, Jeongukkie, my knee is fine.”

Jimin rested his chin on his laced fingers, elbows on the table. He fluttered his eyelashes. “Then tell us, dearest Hobari, what did happen last night?”

Hoseok opened and closed his mouth like a fish. He looked at Taehyung for assistance. “Hey, they’re talking to you, not me.”

Hoseok shot daggers in Taehyung’s direction, causing him to chuckle. Jimin’s grin grew wider. Jeongguk was still looking confused. 

“I believe what you want to know, my darling Jimin, is if you won the bet with your dearest boyfriend here.” Hoseok composed himself. “If you must know, as you would say, my reign of terror is finally over.” 

Jimin whooped, squeezed Jeongguk in a hug, then began to clap. “Ohhhh I’m so disgustingly happy for you guys! So is this a thing now? Are you two an item?”

Taehyung grabbed Hoseok’s hands and laced their fingers together on the table. “Yeah. We are.”

Jeongguk wailed exasperatedly, “You mean I lost the bet?!”