Work Text:
10 February 2018
Jimin wakes up to the sunlight filtering through his yellow curtains. He brings his hand up to his face, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes as best as he can before reaching over for the warmth that should have been beside him, only to find that it isn’t there. He rolls over to face the bedside table and checks the time on his phone - 10 A.M..
Right. Yoongi already left.
Jimin pouts in his sleepy daze upon realising his boyfriend’s absence. The elder said he had something important on and wouldn’t be home the whole week, even missing Valentine’s day. Jimin understands, really. Yoongi’s an aspiring artist who needs his own time for inspiration. He knows his boyfriend loves to travel and can be gone for days or weeks on end. Jimin misses him while he’s away, of course, but he’s grown accustomed to leading his own independent lifestyle when his boyfriend isn’t around; they’ve been together for a whole five years after all.
However, He’s a slightly bummed that they won’t be celebrating Valentine’s Day. Just a little.
Maybe a bit more than a little, seeing as to how it’s also their anniversary.
Jimin sighs, ruffling his bubblegum pink hair before running his fingers through it. He’s not going to get his hopes up. As much as he loves his boyfriend, Yoongi always had the habit of poor time management. The elder often worked in his studio for hours without realising the time, only to be dragged out of his art-induced stupor by a very needy, pouty Jimin. He’d always put Jimin first though, the younger is very thankful of that. Still, he wished to at least get a video call every so often instead of just the occasional texts.
Swinging his legs over the edge of the double bed that he shares with his elusive boyfriend, Jimin shuffles tiredly to the restroom to brush his teeth and complete his morning ritual before dragging himself out of their room and into the living area.
As expected, Yoongi had left breakfast for Jimin. The elder had taken to doing that every morning since they started living together and the small gesture makes Jimin feel loved despite his boyfriend’s frequent absence. It’s one of the little things that remind him that Yoongi still treasures and loves him very much.
He moves closer to the cling-wrapped plate of what seems to be chocolate chip pancakes, about to pick it up to have it reheated when he noticed a colourful sticky note attached to the top of it.
Jimin picks up the note, eyebrow raised as he reads the neat handwriting undoubtedly belonging to his lover.
‘Look out for it on your way to work today. I love you, angel - MYG’
Despite the little flip his heart does at the pet name, Jimin furrows his brows in confusion, pouting hard at the strange note Yoongi left him with. He has no clue what ‘it’ is but makes a mental note anyway as he moves to get ready for his shift at his hyung, Jin’s cafe.
//
He meets Taehyung, his co-worker and best friend, outside his apartment building as the duo make their way to jin’s cafe for their shift together. Taehyung had transferred in during Jimin’s second year in arts school and they became fast friends after Taehyung signed to Jimin one day telling him that he was in the process of learning sign language and asked if they could be friends. The fellow 95 liner was put through a round of ‘screening’ by Yoongi and Hoseok, the pair only deeming him worthy of Jimin’s friendship after multiple threats of beating his ass if he ever hurts their precious dongsaeng.
Jimin still chuckles fondly at the memory. Taehyung’s face had turned as red as a tomato when Hoseok-hyung asked him about his past sexual experiences with squinty eyes and a serious frown like it had anything to do with Jimin. Yoongi and Jimin had shared a look from across the table then, both rolling their eyes at Hoseok’s pretense.
They’re both happily together now at least.
The pair walk in comfortable silence with the occasional banter through hand signs and suggestive eyebrow wiggles while taking a familiar left turn like they had done countless times . The café was on the way to their old arts school, a mere ten minute walk from the district they stayed in. Jimin was an aspiring painter while Taehyung dreams of being a fashion designer, but alas, they couldn’t live off sketches and paintings alone, and so decided to get a side job to pay the bills. Jin, one of Yoongi’s childhood friends who had opened his own café, took them in right away. The man was an upright, friendly and infinitely warm individual. Sometimes, childlike yet possessed a sense of wisdom far surpassing his years. Jimin really liked Jin and often sought the elder out for advice. Though, Jimin thinks he should lay off the dad jokes, a sentiment the rest of their close-knit group shares.
They passed by a familiar alley, one that Jimin would always glance into because it brought back bittersweet memories of his younger days. This time, though, it’s different. Jimin comes to an abrupt halt in front of the alley. The scene in front of him was unalike what he remembered, having passed by the same place and peeking into it every day, he was accustomed to the monotonous grey walls and grimy cement floor. However, the alleyway he grew to know was no longer as dark and sombre as he recalled, instead, a myriad of colours sprayed on the wall on one side made it appear almost vibrant and welcoming. As if in a trance, he took a step inside, barely registering Taehyung following behind him.
The first thing he notices is the monochromatic outline of a boy sitting with his arms around his knees
Jimin runs his eyes over the silhouettes. His profile, though done abstractly in simple black shadowy outlines, highlights a cute button nose and a set of plump lips. On the the boy’s back were a pair of folded wings painted in a haphazard colour scheme of different shades rainbow. Paint of all hues dripped from them to the ground, forming a puddle as the wings seemed to melt. Short, blonde hair framed his delicate face, a single multi-coloured teardrop rolling down his cheek as the 2D boy stared at the similarly coloured stencil writing diagonally above him:
120201; A fallen angel” - Agust D
A gasp escapes Jimin as he fixes his gaze on the familiar signature as well as the date. Jimin turns to Taehyung in shock only to find his best friend grinning at him from ear to ear. He hastily bends his fingers and wrists, signing, “That’s… The day I met Yoongi…”
“Your boyfriend is quite the romantic isn’t he?” Taehyung signs back.
Jimin turns back to admire the piece, lips curving into a wide smile as he giggles fondly at the memory still vivid in his mind. The day his life changed and his happiness started. They day he met a senior named Yoongi.
//
01 February 2012 - Past
Uncurling his palm for the upteenth time, Jimin looks at the broken hearing aid. It was the second one this week and he knows how expensive these things cost. Tears formed behind his eyes as he willed himself not to cry. He can’t stop his heart from clenching painfully as he recalls their mocking stares, talking amongst themselves with smirks on their faces, words he couldn’t hear but he knew they were directed at him.
For being different. Why did I have to be born imperfect.
The negative thoughts he tried so hard to shut out came back in a tidal wave of insecurity and self-depreciation. Was it his fault he was born deaf? He was nice to everyone, treated everyone he met with respect and kindness so why did they feel the need to mock him? Why did they feel the need to shit on his entire existence just because he’s missing a part of himself?
As if I needed more proof of my flaws.
Jimin curled into himself further, dropping his head to rest on his arms that were wrapped around his dirty knees. They had pushed him to the ground, kicked him in the stomach before pulling out his aid, tossing it back and forth between themselves in a game with Jimin as the monkey, laughing soundlessly as Jimin desperately tried to get it back from them. His parents weren’t well-to-do, barely making ends meet yet they scraped up enough money to buy him hearing aids without even a hint of resentment. Jimin treated them like precious jewels, always handling them with care. His heart clenched with every throw and every drop to the ground. He broke down, begging for the bullies to stop with his knees on the dirty concrete. Jimin thinks he’d gotten through to them for a second, holding out his hands to receive the hearing aid, only to watch as the eldest of them dropped it just shy of his outstretched palms, a foot coming down on the contraption, hard.
Jimin didn’t hear the crack.
He only realised he was sobbing when he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder a while later. Jimin lifted his head, coming face to face with a stranger with brown hair falling over his wide almond-shaped eyes, worry and apprehension swimming in its depths. The stranger had a long, oval face, his lips pulled into a concerned frown. He mouths some words, and had Jimin not be in such a daze, he would have registered what the stranger tried to say by reading his lips. Instead, he simply stares at the man blankly, causing him to frown even more, turning to seemingly another person on his right. The other man had dark, cat-like eyes, matching the mop of black hair that fell thickly over his brow. A round, straight nose sat on top of thin lips that sported a perfect cupid’s bow. The features complement each other well on his heart-shaped face, ending with a prominent jawline and sharp chin. The stranger was handsome but his unreadable expression and sharp stare made Jimin cowered instinctively.
However, he found himself instantly relaxing once those perfect lips curve slightly in a soft smile with a few words from the brown-haired man crouched in front of him, eyes never leaving his own. He tried to read the man’s lips when they part to form words but had to squint due to the dimness of the school’s back alley. The man frowned a little when he noticed that Jimin wasn’t responding, making Jimin feel guilty and self-conscious. Jimin was about to hang his head in shame when he felt a light tap on his arm. He turned to face the brown-haired stranger sheepishly only to stare wide eyed at the movement of his hands.
‘Hi I’m Hoseok, He’s Yoongi. Are you ok?’
Jimin’s gaze snapped up to Hoseok, mouth forming an ‘o’ at the unexpected gesture. He sees Hoseok beaming back at him reassuringly and he can feel the tears welling up, bottom lip trembling as he gives the men a nod. Slowly, Jimin uncurls his fingers, showing them the broken hearing aid.
If Jimin had turned, he would’ve seen Yoongi’s dark expression.
The two men eventually helped Jimin up and dusted him off, taking him to a nearby ice cream parlour and even treating him to an elaborate sundae despite the younger’s protests.
Jimin learned that they’re his seniors in the art department and that Hoseok knew sign language because his sister was deaf too. Jimin noticed Yoongi’s weighted gaze the entire time, the elder only offering small smiles as Hoseok rambled on beside him. Jimin felt a little bit downcast that due to his disability, Yoongi was being left out of the conversation so he made the extra effort to glance at the man every so often, offering him a few smiles of his own.
They parted ways a little bit later, Jimin returning home with two new numbers in his phone and a light heart. For once, he looked forward to the next day, practically buzzing in his bed under the covers, eventually falling asleep to the image of black hair against pale skin and a fond smile on perfectly-shaped lips.
For once, it wasn’t a nightmare.
//
10 February 2018
Jimin returns home from work, content and full of love from the day’s discovery when he finds another colourful note hanging from a string in the doorway. With a beaming grin, Jimin tugs the string so that it detaches from the ceiling before reading the carefully written handwriting.
From the moment I laid eyes on you in that dark alley, you took my breath away.
Have a good night sleep, angel.
Sweet dreams. I love you.
- MYG
Jimin’s heart was full of warmth and gratitude. Despite having to hug a cold pillow to sleep that night, he drifts off dreaming about a certain pale senior and his precious little gestures that never fail to remind Jimin how much he’s loved.
11 February 2018
It was Jimin’s off day today and he wanted to paint. However, upon realising that he had ran out of canvases and some tubes of acrylic, Jimin finds himself enroute towards the art supply store across town, conveniently located near Hoseok’s dance studio. He would sometimes sit in for the classes the elder conducted, finding inspiration in the lines of contemporary dance, and the two would have a meal after to catch up. He sees Taehyung regularly since they work the same shifts but not so much of Hoseok, his best friend’s boyfriend, since he works quite a distance away from where Jimin usually is unless he’s out getting more art supplies.
Which is what he’s currently doing.
He’s standing outside the dance studio, fiddling with his phone, Jimin startles when he’s suddenly pulled into a tight hug. If it weren’t for the constant bouncing with the occasional lift, Jimin would have screamed for help. Fortunately or unfortunately, over the years, he’s come to familiarise himself with Hobi’s way of greeting. He’s fairly certain that if he could hear, Hoseok would be making some sort of unintelligible squeal, as his boyfriend often grumbles about.
Hoseok pulls back to sign enthusiastically, ‘ My cute little Jiminie! I have seen you in a week and I miss your chubby cheeks so much!’ And as proof, the elder raises his hands to pinch his cheeks, pulling them sideways before squishing his face repeatedly, making his lips curve into a figure 8 before they stretch out again. Jimin doesn’t bother stopping him, knowing full well to let Hoseok do as he wishes until the latter’s satisfied lest he wants to subject his poor cheeks to constant abuse throughout their time together.
A few more pulls and a rub later, they’re on the way to the art supply store, catching up with each other as they go. It was really easy to chat with Hobi, not just because the senior was practically an expert at hand signing, but also due to his open, friendly personality. Much like Taehyung, Hoseok was bright, cheerful, optimistic yet he took no shit. Jimin really admires that about him, having been saved by Hoseok countless times in the past when he got bullied or when someone who didn’t understand him was rude without him knowing.
They arrive at the quaint store, exterior decorated with lovely little hand-painted hearts dangling from the awning; specially for Valentine’s Day. The duo enter, pushing open the glass door as a chime rings overhead. They both give a wave to the store owner, Seijin, perched behind the counter before meandering through the shelves with practised ease towards the paints and brushes section, having been here countless times hitherto.
Without taking too much time, Jimin collects all the materials he thinks he needs, dumping them into the basket he picked up at one of the shop corners, eventually carrying them all to the counter when he’s satisfied with his selection.
Seijin smiles at him warmly, apparently asking after Yoongi as Hoseok translates the man’s words for Jimin into sign language. He beams in return, telling him through Hoseok that his boyfriend is fine. They’re still happily in love, even though he’s been out and about lately and Jimin misses him dearly. Seijin shoots him a knowing look from over the countertop, in which Jimin responds confusedly with a tilt of his head.
It’s only as he’s about to leave the store with Hoseok that he sees it and it dawns on him. Passing by the art jam area, a splash of colour on the ivory wall caught his eye. Upon closer inspection, Jimin, eyes widening to the size of saucers, realised what exactly those shapes were.
Hand signs.
The graffiti piece consisted of the three different signs formed by various geometric shapes overlapping in a picasso-like manner, but less weird. The symbols formed three rows of three, each set displayed in a row beneath each other, starting with the sign for ‘What’s up’. It was somewhat similar to inverted jazz hands with the person’s forearms held horizontally, palms facing the stomach, going outwards in a wave with the elbow as a pivot. The use of varying triangles and shades of blue made the hands look as if they were made of crystal.
The second set was ‘Thank you’, the sign akin to a hand kiss but from the chin instead. The lips depicted in the drawing, Jimin noticed, were strikingly similar to his own plump ones had it been crystallized yellow.
The third was ‘Friend’. The gesture an interlocking of the index fingers, done twice with each finger over the other. The hands once again in the same blue hues as the first.
Lastly, right at the bottom was the caption:
120207; Our first conversation - Agust D
Hoseok turns to give him a gentle smile, poking his cheek to get his attention before signing.
“You know, Yoongi always believed that his hands were one of the most important parts of himself. He did everything with his hands - paint, draw, build, hold a camera… and talk to you.”
Choked up, Jimin could feel a lump in his throat upon seeing Hoseok’s words. The dam only bursting when the elder pulls him into a gentle embrace, uncaring of the stares they received from passers by.
Jimin feels like the luckiest person alive.
God, he loves Yoongi.
//
07 February 2012 - Past
Only a few days after getting his hearing aid crushed and meeting with the pair of seniors for the first time, Jimin was manhandled, once again, towards the back of the school. He’d gone through this enough to know what was about to happen. This time though, he tried to fight it. He thought of the two boys that have indubitably become his only friends, pulling him to sit with them during lunch break, texting each other through the day in friendly banter; they never once shamed him for his disability. He decided then that he wasn’t going to give up and cower in fear anymore because he wanted to change; he wanted to put an end to treatment that he never deserved. They’ve made him realise that he shouldn’t have to feel bad about something he wasn’t born with and that he was perfect just the way he was.
Though inaudible to him, Jimin called out with his raspy voice, untrained and underused, for help… or at least tried to. It didn’t deter the bullies, however. The closer he was being dragged to the secluded storage area, the more anxious he grew. What if nobody heard his cries? He tried his best to pry himself out of their hold on him, to no avail. Slowly, the fight in him started to wane.
Jimin was bracing himself for another round of shaming and humiliation, which would undoubtedly end in something of his either broken or taken from him, when the hands trapping him in a vice grip got pulled off. He belatedly registered a tuft of black hair shielding him. Jimin watched, shaken, as Yoongi fought off his bullies, throwing punches and kicks while receiving some of his own. Soon enough, the bullies scurried away, shouting words Jimin couldn’t hear, their faces stained red in certain areas, arms clutching their sides. Yoongi stood unmoving, except for the heavy panting that made his shoulders rise and fall with every breath. Jimin gasped the moment the senior turned around, face and limbs mottled with cuts, bleeding while light shades of pink and purple littered his skin, indicating where a collection of nasty bruises would likely form within a day.
Without any hesitation, Jimin lifted himself up with shaky arms, running straight towards his saviour, a worried expression on his face as his fingers trace the air above Yoongi’s wounds, too scared to touch for fear of causing the senior any more pain. Jimin felt warm palms against his cheeks and stills, a thumb coming up to wipe at the tear that had involuntarily rolled down; he hadn’t even realised he was crying.
They stared into each other’s eyes, Jimin sobbing into Yoongi’s hand before the elder pulled away and takes a step back. The action confused Jimin but before he could overthink, Yoongi raised both hands, knuckles battered and bruised, and began to move them, palms flat, fingers spread, waving both hands in an outwards gesture.
“What’s up?”
For a whole five seconds, Jimin couldn’t react, too dumbfounded at the sign Yoongi made. Did Yoongi even know how to sign? It’s only when the elder sheepishly dropped his arms, his right hand coming up to rub the nape of his neck awkwardly in embarrassment that Jimin crumbled.
The senior learnt how to sign for him. He got hurt protecting Jimin from the bullies and now he was even trying to cheer him up…
He could feel his face scrunched up at the impending ugly cry as he ran to the elder, throwing his arms around Yoongi’s neck, enveloping the senior into a tight hug. His heart felt so full despite the rapid beating as a fuzzy, pleasant sensation brimmed the pit of his stomach. Jimin feels the warm body against him freeze for a split second before firm arms circled his slim waist, pulling him closer. They stay in each other’s embrace for a few minutes, Jimin simply basking in the gentle feeling of safety and comfort the elder’s presence provided as he tried to calm his emotions. Only when Jimin’s sobs gradually faded into slight sniffles, did they move slightly apart.
Jimin’s heart stuttered before speeding up at the sight of Yoongi’s gummy smile. He couldn’t help but let out a light giggle, his eyes disappearing with the huge grin that overtook his features. Leaning away with the elder’s arms still around his waist, Jimin dislodged himself from around Yoongi’s neck to sign a slow ‘thank you’ , blush high on his puffy cheeks.
Yoongi shook his head, pulling his arms back from where they had settled on the younger’s hip so he could reply. Jimin internally bemoaned the loss. The elder’s gaze travel down to his hands, brows furrowed as he attempted to recall the proper signs; Jimin almost cooed at how adorably vexed the elder looked. Eventually Yoongi managed to get the message across - ‘ friend ’ - looking up from his success expectantly with a hint of smugness, only for his smile to drop when he realised Jimin was laughing behind the hand over his mouth, shoulders shaking from the force.
Despite the unrelenting pout on his face the whole time, the elder insisted on walking Jimin home that day.
If Jimin found the elder utterly adorable sulking, nobody needed to know.
12 February 2018
Jin’s café was a quaint and cosy place a few blocks away from the nearby school district, frequented by high schoolers and college students alike. It carried a rustic appearance, decorated sublimely with simple wooden furniture and hanging terrariums, while paneled windows lined on of the walls, overlooking a mini garden where patrons could opt to sit and enjoy the outdoor air.
Jimin comes in for his usual shift, greeting Jin with a wide smile before heading to the back room to change into his uniform - a cute pink shirt, that matched his hair, with ‘EatJin’ embroidered on the breast pocket in yellow. He settles behind the counter with a dark apron around his waist, reaching behind to fasten it securely when he looks up and his breathing stops, body still, fingers frozen in the middle of tying the ribbon.
Across the counter on the off white brick wall was a life size painting of two men under a shop awning, faces barely an inch away from the each other. The slightly taller guy has his hands on the other’s cheek looking like he was about to pull him into a kiss. Vivid paint drops of all colours fall behind them, the awning shielding them from the ‘rain’ as the two stay in their little bubble, oblivious to the rest of the world.
130214; You’re my rain in a drought & the sunshine on a cold winter’s day. - Agust D
//
14 February 2013 - Past
Jimin raised his leg as though kicking an imaginary pebble as he strolled towards the school gym. It had been their meeting place for the days Yoongi had basketball practice, a rare sport the lazy elder indulged in. Why it’s different from other types of physical activity that the elder vehemently refuses to have any part in, he will never understand. Nonetheless, Jimin still finds joy in cheering for his favourite hyung together with Hoseok, the two of them often seen in the bleachers with embarrassing sparkly banners overhead. It often ends in Yoongi pouting over their regular ice cream outings after, but they’ll continue to have their fun, much to Yoongi’s chagrin. They know he secretly appreciates their support.
It was Valentine’s Day and Hoseok apparently had a date so it would just be Yoongi and Jimin today. The thought of being alone with the handsome senior made his heart flutter in his chest, palms sweaty from nervousness. He was, of course, aware of his not-so-little crush on the elder, however, he was also fairly certain he didn’t stand a chance. Yoongi, unlike himself, was quite popular amongst the staff and students; he was handsome, smart and excelled in what he did, after all. Plus the senior was immensely kind and generous despite his stoic exterior, as if him saving Jimin all those times from bullies wasn’t enough of an indication. Conversely, Jimin was just… Jimin. Jimin with the girly face, fat cheeks and, to top it all off, he was deaf. Plus, Jimin was definitely male and males usually don’t like other males. With the exception of himself.
Again, he was Jimin.
He tried to shake the negative thoughts but they always lingered close. Too close. Close enough that if he accidentally touched them, they’d consume him whole. Jimin gazed solemnly out the windows lining the corridor as he ambled along past the rows of empty classrooms, the beating of his heart in tune with the soothing vision of raindrops against the window pane. A melancholic Valentine’s Day.
After a left turn and five, ten, twenty steps, Jimin found himself in front of the doors separating him from his crush. With a sizeable tug on the handle, the door, swollen from humidity, shudders open. He lifted his head to survey the area for Yoongi and he definitely did see him.
Only, he wasn’t alone.
The girl, presumably a cheerleader from her gaudy neon crop top and short flare skirt, side eyed Jimin before placing her delicate hands on Yoongi’s shoulders, rising on her tiptoes to place a kiss on the seniors lips. He belatedly recognised her as one of the most popular girls in school. Jimin didn’t want to continue watching. He turned on his heels and ran.
//
The harsh rain soaked through his clothes, the icy chill unforgiving as it seeped into his bones yet Jimin couldn’t feel a thing over his aching heart. His tears lost within the downpour as his feet pounded the pavement, his body taking him away from the source of his dejection as fast as he could manage. He almost scoffed at the irony; the elder had only ever made Jimin happy.
Jimin got pulled, literally, out of his despairing thoughts and the rain by a hand around his forearm, the grip firm and almost painful. A wave of fear coursed through him as flashbacks of him getting dragged to a dilapidated corner by his bullies resurfaced. Jimin thrashed and flailed in the stranger’s hold until an arm wrapped itself around his waist tightly, pulling him flushed against the man’s chest. Only then, did Jimin realise who the stranger was.
“ Jiminie.” He saw Yoongi’s lips move, too dazed to respond. He only registered that he’s shaking when Yoongi pulled a dry towel from his backpack and proceeded to wrap it around Jimin’s shoulders. It didn’t help much against the wetness but he did feel a little bit warmer. Belatedly, Jmin realised that they were now standing under the awning of a shop, out of the cold rain. His brain running a mile a minute yet not thinking at all as Yoongi fussed over him with the towel, totally disregarding his own soaked self.
The hands stop when he feels hot tears well up behind his closed lids, the heat a stark contrast to the iciness of his skin as they roll down his cheek, dripping off his chin. Feeling the touch of warmth on his cheek, Jimin opened his eyes to see Yoongi’s gentle gaze on him, the elder’s thumb caressing his face, catching the drops that managed to escape. Jimin swallowed dryly, shakily raising both hands. “What about her?” Yoongi’s eyes drop down to read his gestures before coming back up to meet his, an unreadable expression on his face. Pointing a finger to his lips, Yoongi mouthed, “ The one I like is you.”
Jimin couldn’t believe his eyes. He must’ve read that wrongly because there’s no way…
It was only when he felt Yoongi’s large hands cupping his cheeks that he stopped his brooding, breath hitching as Yoongi leaned in, their nose almost brushing at the proximity. He gasped, body still when soft lips met his, only to melt into the kiss a second later. It was a chaste soft press of lips yet it felt searing hot against his skin, the proverbial fireworks going off within his body as he shuddered from the intensity of the pleasurable sensation.
Yoongi moved his palms to his jaw, fingers reaching behind his neck as his thumb continued to rub Jimin’s cheek gently. The elder broke from the kiss to peck his cheek lightly before pulling away to stare at him, a fond, sincere smile in place.
Way too soon, Yoongi let go, reaching behind him briefly and turning back after grabbing something from where his bag sat. “Close your eyes,” he mouthed and Jimin did just that.
He felt a light tug on top of his left ear followed by fingers gently running through the hair above it before Yoongi bopped him on the nose, making him wrinkle it slightly. He opened his eyes and realised that he was now staring straight at his reflection in the shop window. On top of his left ear, tucked neatly between strands of his matted hair, was a flower; a daisy.
He turned towards Yoongi who stood blushing by the side. The senior lifted his arms to sign.
“ Happy Valentine’s Day. Will you be my Valentine?”
Jimin grinned widely, eyes turning to crescents as fresh tears pooled at the corners, lips parting to display a set of straight white teeth. Nodding, he all but threw himself at the man he felt so much for. The man who was seriously making him cry too much, even if, now, it was out of joy.
They stay like that for a moment, the calming pitter patter of rain a contrast to their racing hearts.
The perfect Valentine’s Day.
//
12 February 2018
Jimin turns to Jin and Namjoon standing in the doorway leading to the kitchen looking at him meaningfully, the eldest of the two sporting huge shit-eating grin which falls to a frown, before the corners lift back up in a soft smile when he notices the dampness in Jimin’s eyes.
Jin hands him a purple daisy; the same flower Yoongi had put in Jimin’s hair that day. On the stem was a little tag attached. Jimin tilts it to read the handwritten words in his lover’s familiar script.
Daisies symbolise Cheerfulness, Innocence, Purity
Fitting for an angel like you.
- MYG
“You boyfriend’s such a sap. He’s totally whipped.” Namjoon signed with a snicker. Jimin giggles along, bending down to sniff at the flower’s sweet scent, giddy with happiness.
For the whole day, nobody questions him when Jimin wears the flower above his ear, the purple vibrant against his soft baby pink hair.
13 February 2018
Jimin rubs the sleep out of his eyes as his phone beeps for the upteenth time that morning. He swears under his breath when he receives another message.
“Someone better be dyin’” Jimin internally grumbles as he turns on his side to pick up his phone from the bedside table.
Kookie
Hyung!
Hyung!
Hyung!
Jimin-hyung!
Are you awake?
Wake up!
I want to pass Yoongi something
But I forgot your apartment key at home
Jimin
Goddammit Jungkook. It’s 7am… (ʘ言ʘ╬)
Yoongi’s not even here.
Kookie
I know, but he said he needed it and he’ll pick it up from the apartment
He’s too lazy to get it from our parents’ house
And since I’m in the area…
I gotta get to school soon though.
Could you wait for me by the window?
I’ll wave you over and you can come down and get it for him.
It’ll only be 5 mins
Jimin
ヽ(`д´；)/
Fine…
Jimin clambers out of bed, shuffling sleepily towards the bathroom to get himself halfway decent and properly dressed, trying but failing to tame his bed head. Eventually, he huffs in defeat, opting to smush the messy mop of pink, ends sticking out randomly, with one of Yoongi’s black caps. He then drags himself over to the platform by the window facing the park. Jimin blinks against the rising sun, squinting as he watches the sky grow brighter by the second.
Just then, something caught Jimin’s eye, causing him to turn slightly to focus on the now unfamiliar wall of the park across the street. Blonde hair with half-lidded eyes, the bottom half of his face hidden within soft white sheets; the image of a boy, barely waking. As the sun rises, sunlight falls on the edge of the wall, filtering through the translucent shade above, gradually moving to cast spots of soft light across the boy’s face, making him look almost alive.
Jimin jumps off his perch by the window, racing out of the apartment and down the stairs to get a better look. He swears the painting wasn’t there yesterday…
He glances left and right to scout for cars before crossing the street with urgent steps, drawing steadily closer to the display. As Jimin nears, he notices a caption with the same signature, previously hidden by the shelter above.
140309; Waking up to the epitome of beauty - Agust D
Jimin practically combusts on the spot.
//
09 March 2014 - Past
It was Yoongi’s birthday today.
After a whole elaborate date, which he pulled off with the help of Hoseok and Taehyung, Jimin had confided that he was ready to take the next step. Yoongi had been so patient with him thus far, never once pressuring him into anything, making him feel so incredibly loved. Jimin trusts Yoongi with his life, and therefore, wanted to show it. He wanted to give his whole self over to this lovely man, who frankly, doesn’t deserve anything less.
After a fun-filled day at the amusement park, the couple thoroughly enjoying themselves on the roller coasters and little kiddy rides, the pair retreat to Yoongi’s house, giddy from all the excitement and adrenaline. They cuddled on the sofa with the yellow dog plushie Yoongi had won for Jimin, simply basking in the comfortable silence that settled between them before the younger gets up to go to the toilet. Supposedly.
Naively taking Hoseok’s suggestion, Jimin climbs out of his trousers, taking a quick shower so he’s clean and smells good. He throws on a sheer bathrobe, courtesy of Taehyung (he doesn’t want to know why his friend has this), stepping back out into the living room.
Yoongi’s still lounging on the couch, scrolling through his phone when Jimin saunters over nervously, ears red from embarrassment as he tries to seduce his boyfriend. Yoongi lifts his head to regard Jimin, going back to his phone for a brief second before doubling back up, eyes as wide as saucers as he takes in Jimin’s choice of clothes, the elder’s eyes raking Jimin from head to toe in wonder. With sudden boldness, Jimin lifts his left leg, settling on the sofa beside Yoongi’s thigh in a half kneeling position, eyes never leaving the senior despite the prominent blush on his cheeks. He braces his hands on the backrest, raising his right leg to mirror his left, effectively straddling his lover. He feels Yoongi’s large hands coming to rest on his hips as the elder sucks in a breath, chest puffing noticeably under Jimin’s shy yet heated stare.
They lock eyes, Yoongi rubbing circles into Jimin’s hip from over the sheer fabric before the younger dives in for a kiss. Jimin presses his plump lips firmly, parting them shortly after to deepen it before running a tongue over Yoongi’s bottom lip, making the elder quiver, hands gripping tighter around his hip to pull Jimin closer. They continue to make out; Jimin runs his fingers through the elder’s hair while Yoongi’s slides his palm under the hem of Jimin’s bathrobe, feeling the smooth skin of the younger as the elder caresses his thigh lovingly. They pull back to catch their breath, Yoongi peering straight into Jimin’s eyes as he mouths slowly.
“Are you sure?”
Without any hesitation, Jimin nods in response. He might be feeling nervous but he’s ready if Yoongi wants him. They’ve been together for a whole year, going no further than the occasional make out session and some heavy petting. Jimin had been insecure about himself, and Yoongi, being the sweetheart he is, told him that they’re love wasn’t based on anything sexual, he would still love Jimin so there was no need to rush. True to his words, Yoongi never treated him as anything less than precious despite the lack of intimacy. Seeing Yoongi’s sincerity, Jimin gradually learned to accept himself, opening up and eventually he was able to feel comfortable in his own skin, all thanks to his man. He wouldn’t give himself to anyone else.
That and... Hoseok might have told him that Yoongi would prefer a naked Jimin on his bed with a bow tied around his head for a present as opposed to the conventional mug.
Abruptly, Yoongi hoists Jimin up, the younger scrambling for purchase as the man stands and carries him to the bedroom, settling him down gently onto the bed. Slowly, he climbs over Jimin on all fours, dipping down to capture the younger’s swollen lips, making a warm sensation bubble in his stomach, heart skipping a beat due to the tiny ministrations of Yoongi’s hand on his thigh.
Yoongi slowly moves down his body, kissing, sucking and licking over every surface with care as if Jimin was something precious and fragile. Yoongi doesn’t remove the sheer robe, instead opting to let it pool loosely around Jimin, the collar drooping past Jimin’s shoulder’s, held in place by the sash still tied around his slim waist.
Yoongi hooks Jimin’s thigh over his shoulder, nipping the inside of the taut flesh with his teeth before sliding diving down to the puckered hole and running his tongue over it, the action making Jimin shudder, his cock twitching hungrily with every lick. His lover pushes his tongue past the ring of muscle, adding a lubed finger to prepare him carefully.
Before long, Yoongi has three fingers inside the younger, curling and spreading to properly stretch his tight entrance before pulling out. Yoongi positions himself, the tip of his hard rod pressed against Jimin’s hole. The elder places a palm on Jimin’s cheek, stroking the side of his face tenderly with his thumb in silent question. Jimin nuzzles into Yoongi’s hand, nodding faintly at the love of his life before the latter pushes in.
Jimin might not be able to hear but he sees, the half-lidded gaze of his lover on him. When Yoongi licks his lips seductively, Jimin instinctively buckles his hips, throat quivering from the inaudible noise he makes. He takes in the quick rise and fall of the elder’s chest every time he thrusts deeply into Jimin, the latter almost wishing he had the ability to distinguish the quick, laboured exhales of the man before him.
A jolt of pleasure makes his back arch of the bed when Yoongi moves to lean over him, arms bracketing his head, the new position hitting his prostate just right. Pressing an affectionate kiss to his boyfriend’s lips, Yoongi moves across his jawline, planting small doting pecks against the heated skin before continuing down his neck, the feather-light touches and warm breath slightly ticklish but more so arousing when the elder sucks at the skin, leaving angry red marks in his wake.
It’s not long before Jimin feels the the tight coil of heat in his groin, short puffs of breath flow past his parted lips with every push of Yoongi’s cock into his tight hole as he draws closer and closer to oblivion.
Jimin comes with what feels like a shout, judging by the strain in his throat. Yoongi thrusts his hips one, two, three times, before the elder tips over as well, the warm liquid spurting in bouts into Jimin, painting his inner walls and filling him so delightfully. Jimin lets out an muted sigh when Yoongi pulls out, eyelids drooping as he calms down from his high. He faintly registers Yoongi padding to the bathroom before he shuts his eyes and falls asleep.
//
Waking up to the harsh morning light filtering through the window, Jimin stirs, a hand coming up to rub his eyes before going back to snuggling against Yoongi.
Yoongi?
Jimin’s eyes pop open with a start, pulling back from the warm body to stare at his lover, who seemed to have been awake the whole time, an amused smirk on his face.
“Morning, angel.” Yoongi mouths as he slides a hand around Jimin’s naked waist, pulling him flush against his lover’s bare chest. Yoongi plants a wet kiss on the tip of his nose, much to Jimin’s mock disgust, the elder’s signature gummy smile never wavering as he chuckles noiselessly.
Jimin thinks he wouldn’t mind waking up to this every morning.
//
13 February 2018
Jimin feels a tap on his shoulder. Reluctantly, he pulls his eyes away from the awe-inspiring piece, turning his head to meet a beady brown eyed Jungkook and his bunny teeth.
Jungkook types with quick fingers on his phone, lifting it to show Jimin when he’s done.
Like what you see?
*wink wink*
A wave of heat crawls up from Jimin’s neck to his face as a prominent blush settles on his puffy cheeks. He moves to give Jungkook a smack on the arm but the younger dodges it with catlike reflexes. Damn these Taekwondorks.
Just as Jimin steps forward to continue his assault, Jungkook lifts his hands, palms forward with the one of them changing to a closed fist with the index finger raised, telling Jimin to wait a sec. The younger male rummages through his book bag, eventually beaming when he finds what he’s looking for, pulling it out carefully. Jimin slowly lowers his hand as his eyes take in what seems to be an old, bound sketchbook. Jungkook hands it over with an expectant look on his face that Jimin eyes warily but he goes ahead to open the book and gasps as soon as he flips past the front page - a coloured sketch of him looking out a window. Light blue and yellow weave across the paper, highlighting the sharp edges of his profile. Gentle half-lidded eyes with baby pink lips parted in a sigh gives the whole piece a warm, serene feel. He continues to flip.
Between the worn pages were numerous pencil sketches of eyes, hands, lips, jawline, all of which seem so familiar . Jimin leafs through, eyes scanning the different body parts of what seems to be the same person - him - before he reaches the next half where he finds, instead, detailed sketches of his own face at various angles followed by full bodied ones. The sketchbook ends with another piece of him sleeping, naked shoulders peeking from under crumpled sheets. The lines are smooth, unhurried and meticulous, every detail overflowing with so much emotion that Jimin could feel the love the artist had for his subject.
Jimin closes the book with a sniffle, looking up at Jungkook who simply smiles and hands him the phone with a typed message.
Hyung has tons of these at home, you know? Volumes upon volumes. He always said you were his muse and that simply looking at you gave him so much inspiration that he felt compelled to immortalise those moments. He used to show them to me with a giant gummy smile on his face. You make him so genuinely happy, Jimin-hyung. Thank you (:
Jimin sniffs and throws himself against the taller boy, arms wrapping around Jungkook’s waist, squeezing it slightly in a silent thank you when he feels a hand patting his back in a comforting gesture. They pull away as Jungkook had to get to class. Jimin immediately hugs the precious sketchbook to his chest has he waves off the younger, beaming from ear to ear.
He really hopes he gets to see Yoongi soon.
13 October 2014 - Past
It was Jimin’s birthday. The third one they’d spent together since they met and the first alone as a couple. Yoongi had planned a surprise for that night, telling Jimin to dress warmly because they would be staying outdoors. Jimin bounced on his heels, waiting eagerly by the door for Yoongi to pick him up, giving his mother a sheepish grin when she walks past with her eyebrows wiggling in a teasing manner.
It was about ten minutes later when the elder showed up, a stalk of sunflower in his grip and a redness on his cheeks that Jimin found complete and utterly adorable. He would have cooed if he weren’t already aware of his own blush. “For you.” The senior mouths before handing the sunflower to Jimin who takes it with careful hands, cradling it against his chest, fingers running through the delicate petals. Jimin brings his free hand to his chin in a gesture of thanks, beaming joyously at his boyfriend before Yoongi takes his hand to lead him down the path towards the dark grey Toyota parked by the side of the road.
About twenty minutes later, Yoongi brings the car to a stop. They were at the outskirts of town in the middle nowhere, overlooking of a large stretch of land. It was 8 ‘o’ clock when they arrived and the sky had already turned dark, revealing the myriad stars that hid themselves during the day, a truly breathtaking sight.
They unload the things from the trunk - a large picnic mat, a basket with food, mosquito repellent and some blankets - heading over to the vast clearing to set it up. They spread the picnic mat over the grass, layering it with one of the thinner, fleece blankets and topping it off with a thicker quilt stuffed with soft down feathers before settling atop the cushiony surface with their food basket.
Yoongi had prepared a feast. There were pieces of fried chicken, bulgogi beef, warm aglio olio, some crispy garlic bread and creamy mashed potatoes with spinach, all homemade by the man himself. Jimin felt so blessed as he took a bite of each dish, relishing in the mouthwatering flavour. The succulent beef and savoury fried chicken complementing surprisingly well with the pasta while the crisp garlic bread dipped in mash tasted simply divine. Jimin ate with gusto, oblivious to the fond gaze fixed upon him.
The pair had managed to clear every scrap of food, placing the empty dishes back into the basket and putting it away before climbing under the thick, down quilt, laying his head on Yoongi’s lap as the elder strokes his head, running his long, lean fingers through the younger’s hair. They basked in the comfortable silence surrounding them, simply staring at the night sky, the warmth of the covers soothing Jimin, lulling him to sleep. Yoongi casts a glance towards the younger, turning to peer down at him when he notices Jimin’s eyes drooping.
In his sleepy daze, Jimin barely registers the movement of his lover’s lips,
“I love...? Huh? I love you?”
Jimin bolts upright abruptly, almost smashing their foreheads together, making Yoongi tumble backwards with a shocked expression on his face.
“What did you say?!” Jimin signs frantically, looking up at Yoongi with wide eyes, hoping that he hadn’t been mistaken.
Yoongi’s face turned as red as a tomato there and then, slowly raising his hands to give Jimin his confirmation.
“I said ‘I love you’ Jiminie.”
Not a second later, Jimin jumps at Yoongi, straddling his boyfriends lap as he presses their lips together urgently, relishing the feeling of utter bliss swelling in his chest. Mouths sliding against each other, Jimin lets out an involuntary moan, judging by the vibration of his voice box, as Yoongi kisses him rougher, parting his plush, swollen lips in a gasp, allowing the elder inside. Jimin slides his small hands into Yoongi’s dark hair, running his fingers through the silky, soft strands while he tilts his head to welcome Yoongi deeper. They stay like this with Jimin on Yoongi’s lap, making out under the blanket of stars, a searing heat ever present in his belly and a tingle down his spine with every touch of his boyfriend’s skin on his; Jimin couldn’t help but think that this was what heaven was like.
“I love you too, Yoongi. Even if I don’t say it out. I really do, you know?”
“I know, baby. I know.”
//
14 February 2018
Jimin comes home after another day at work to find the apartment dim with fairy lights strung across the walls leading to their shared bedroom, illuminating the apartment with a faint yellowish glow.
He toes off his shoes, taking tentative steps towards the bedroom, led by the strings of fairy lights. Just as he turns the corner to peek into the room, Jimin’s breath hitches and his heart skips a beat.
The previously white wall behind their bed was now covered floor to ceiling in paint, the color extending to cover the whole ceiling above him as well. Dabs of blue, black and purple in the background, illuminated by a multitude of stars surrounding a beautiful crescent moon. Just like that night in the open field, Jimin could see the milky way splashed across the surface, together with a few other constellations they had later pointed out. It was the exact same sky as Jimin had remembered, painted in such vivid detail that it took Jimin’s breath away.
Scanning over the the whole expanse, Jimin’s eyes come to rest on the little white words just below the blinding crescent moon in the middle of the wall on top of the bed rest.
You know
I know- Agust D
Out of seemingly nowhere, Yoongi appears, hair mussed, clothes streaked with paint and a little blue spot on the tip of his nose, a nervous expression on his face. The elder takes a deep steadying breath, chest puffing out slightly from the action.
Hands flying up to cup his mouth, Jimin feels hot tears welling up in his eyes as he watches, with bated breath, the love of his life get down on one knee. Yoongi reaches behind his back, pulling out a ring bound sketchbook. Holding it so that the front page is shown to Jimin, Yoongi flips it open.
One the first page was a miniature version of the first graffiti Jimin saw - a boy hugging his knees with colourful folded wings on his back. Yoongi flips again; this time words.
Jimin, the first moment I saw you, you took my breath away. Despite your vulnerable state at that time, you were so beautiful, like a fallen angel.
Giving Yoongi a shaky nod to let the elder know he’s done reading, the page turns again to reveal the second piece of street art - the hand signs. Another flip of the page.
After getting to know you better, I was convinced it were true. You’ve been through so much in life yet you remain empathetic, generous, kind and always with the purest intentions. You’re perfect the way you are and I wished I could have told you that face to face when you cried but I couldn’t sign yet.
Jimin giggled into his palm, cheeks stained with tears as he reads the words on the paper, too overcome with emotion to do anything but nod.
On the page after was the wall art in Jin’s cafe - a couple sharing an intimate moment under the awning of a shop, surrounded by multi-coloured ‘raindrops’; their first kiss.
As soon as I saw you running, I panicked. I didn’t want to lose you and more than that, I needed you to know my feelings. I’m so glad I listened to my gut and chased you that day. I still recall myself thinking of how I wanted you beside me for the rest of my life.
Jimin feels a lump in his throat at the letters displayed, closing his eyes briefly to steady himself and his emotions. Yoongi gives him his time, waiting patiently for Jimin to calm down before the younger opens his eyes again and gives him the go-ahead.
The next piece of art made Jimin involuntarily blush, recalling the events of that fateful night on Yoongi’s birthday. It was the image of him, eyes half-closed, lying between the sheets.
The only thing I have to say is - that was the best birthday ever.
Jimin laughs wetly at Yoongi’s humor, hiding his red cheeks with his tiny hands. He continues to read.
I woke up to the most ethereal being in existence and even now I still can’t believe it. The way the sunlight filters through the curtains, creating patterns on your serene face, fills me with so much inspiration and drive. Every morning I feel like I can conquer the world thanks to you, the light of my life, my muse.
Jimin lowers his hands from his face, signing “Me too.” Smiling fondly at the wetness in Yoongi’s eyes as his lover.
With the last art piece magnificently displayed in the background, Yoongi closes the sketchbook puts it aside. His gaze never leaving Jimin, the elder starts signing the last of his message.
My feelings since that night under the stars hasn’t changed. In fact, it has only grown stronger with each passing day. You might not be able to hear my words but I hope I’ve shown you thus far, how much you truly mean to me. I love you, Jiminie, and with the stars as witness, I would like to ask you... Will you marry me?
Before Yoongi could even finish the last bit of his sentence, Jimin was already bobbing his head profusely. He wanted nothing more than to be bound to Yoongi, the love of his life, the one who understands him without needing any words. Jimin grabs Yoongi’s hand, pulling the elder up and causing him to stumble, falling unceremoniously into Jimin’s embrace, legs unsteady from having to kneel down for so long. Jimin feels the elder’s arm around his waist, pressing their bodies impossibly closer, until there isn’t even a lick of space between them.
The hug almost seemed to last forever and Yoongi’s the one to break away from it. The elder takes his left hand, bringing it to his lips before placing a light kiss on the back of his fourth finger.
Dipping into his jacket pocket, his lover reveals a small roll of grease paper with a very tiny, delicate, pen-drawn motif - two lines weaving together with a sun at one end and the words ‘I KNOW’ in the middle in thick sans serif. His boyfriend, now fiancé, makes to remove the silver ring around his ring finger, revealing a matching tattoo with the same design all around, the words ‘YOU KNOW etched on top while a crescent moon rests on the underside, almost like-
Jimin gasps before snapping his head up to meet his lover’s gaze.
Wedding bands… They were getting their rings permanently tattooed, personally designed by Yoongi no less. Jimin throws his arms over Yoongi’s shoulder, wrapping them behind the elder’s neck before planting a searing kiss onto the man’s lips, gazing lovingly into each others eyes when Jimin pulls back. The younger feels his heart swell at the fondness in his lover’s eyes, making him recall the four pieces of art scattered around the city leading up to the mural on the wall and ceiling of their bedroom, all created just for him. Art was a universal language indeed, and to have it as their wedding bands, Jimin thought it couldn’t be more fitting.
Brimming with emotion, Jimin parts his lips, though inaudible to him and probably a little raspy from disuse, he whispered, “I love you, Yooie.”
Jimin knows he’s succeeded if the surprise on Yoongi’s face is anything to go by, The dumbfounded expression making Jimin giggle against his lover’s chest, resting his head briefly against the firm muscles before leaning back once more. What greets him is an adorable gummy smile, Yoongi’s eyes crinkling at the corners as they disappear into thin slits from how wide he’s grinning.
In their little rundown apartment with their jobs barely making ends meet, Jimin stares into his soon-to-be husband’s eyes and thinks back on all the beautiful moments they shared together; he’s never been happier.
“I know, sunshine.”
“You know.”