The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.
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The Art of War
Sun Tzu

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Three years later.

Someone was behind Jungkook.

Following him.

Watching.

Waiting.

An untrained individual might have missed the warning signs, their senses inexperienced and their minds naive to the world around them. Instead of detecting the almost imperceptible thuds of footsteps on the floorboards or the soft swishes and brushes of clothing, they might have only heard the chirping of birds outside. And rather than observing the lengthening silhouette on the ground - a shadow growing larger and larger as its owner approached - they might have been blinded by the light streaming in through the open windows. Hell, they might have even disregarded their innate sense of intuition, their gut feeling that something wasn't right, in order to soothe any budding paranoia.

But Jungkook wasn't untrained. He was no longer inexperienced. And his naivete had been mostly replaced by disciplined awareness and hard-earned wisdom.

He knew exactly how to handle himself in situations like this.

Jungkook advanced deeper into the sun-drenched room, unconcerned that the only exit was behind him and blocked by his stalker . . . his soon-to-be prey. He had spent years learning how to quickly deescalate threatening scenarios. He'd been taught how to work with limited resources and still emerge victoriously. So he wasn't worried, no. If anything, he was excited by this early-morning challenge. He was ready to put his full arsenal of weapons - his highly specialized set of skills and abilities - to the test.

And depending on how the next few seconds unfolded, Jungkook could utilize several tactics to gain the upper hand. He could catch this person by surprise, rolling to the floor and pinning them to the wall before they even had the chance to blink. He could time the moment just right, waiting until the person was a meter or so away to spin on his heels and tackle them to the ground. Or he could -

"Don't move."

Well, fuck.

It appeared that Jungkook had already made his first mistake, a blunder reserved for the most amateur rookies. He underestimated the skill and ability of his opponent. He assumed he could outsmart this person by anticipating their approach and catching them off-guard, but now . . .

Now he was trapped in this cozy room. Now he was cornered and caged in with nowhere to go. Now he was at this person's complete mercy, which was made evident by a breath fanning over the back of his neck and thighs grazing against his own thighs.

"Don't move," the person repeated with a deceptively gentle voice, the tone smooth and velvety and male. It was completely disarming; the silky quiet of that order urged Jungkook to lower his defenses and surrender without a fight. It begged him to give in to that false sense of security and not do anything rash. It encouraged him to behave and to obey, to listen without talking back.

Too bad Jungkook was never one to outright behave or obey.

Too bad he was never one to keep quiet.

Jungkook took a deliberate step backward, firmly pressing himself against the lean body of his opponent. He slowly and purposely rolled his hips - his ass sweeping over the man's pelvic region - and said, "Whoops. Looks like I moved."

Was grinding against his opponent a dirty play? Sure. Was it ethically or morally sound? Depends on who you were asking. But in scenarios like this, it was imperative to use whatever leverage or tools available. It was crucial to uncover any potential weaknesses of an adversary and exploit those weaknesses at all costs.

It was important to know one's enemy, as Sun Tzu would say.

Even if that person wasn't really your enemy.

"You're not very good at listening, are you?" The man asked while sucking in a ragged breath, a good indication that he hadn't anticipated Jungkook's sensual assault. He smoothed his hands over Jungkook's waist with a reverent - and possessive - sort of touch, pulling him even tighter to his body. "And apparently, you don't know how to fight fairly."

"Fighting fairly is overrated," Jungkook retorted, craning his neck to the side as soft lips began dragging over his pulse point. He didn't attempt to stop the low groan of pleasure that rumbled in his throat. "And considering the way you're feeling me up, I think it's safe to say that you agree."

The man let out an amused scoff, a noise that quickly turned into a gasp when Jungkook swayed his hips in just the right way. He swiftly regained his composure, however, kissing along Jungkook's jaw as he said, "I'm just following your lead, sweetheart."

Sweetheart.

Sweetheart.

Fuck, how could a singular word rile up Jungkook so much? How could that one term of endearment - those two syllables - still ignite flames in his stomach even after all this time? How?

Jungkook knew how. He knew it had nothing to do with the word itself but everything to do with the man shaping it on his tongue. It had everything to do with the man standing behind him, the man currently holding him in a viselike grip. And although remaining in this man's embrace and abandoning his conscious will was a tempting thought, Jungkook had other matters to attend to this morning.

Today, after all, was going to be a very busy day.

So rather than tilting back his head and earning a hickey or two or three, Jungkook repeated, "You're just following my lead, hm?"

"That's right."

"Well, then follow my lead over here," Jungkook said as he reluctantly walked out of his opponent's arms, heading towards the edge of the room and spinning on his heels. He leaned against the wall, crossing his arms over his chest as he added, "Angel."

The man - that beautiful and spirited and loving man - rolled his eyes, though he didn't put up an argument as he rejoined Jungkook. When he was just a breath of space apart, he set his hands on Jungkook's hips and squeezed appreciatively. "Someone is trying to be a brat this morning."

"Oh, I don't have to try, Taehyungie. I just am."

Jungkook's lips spread into an effortless smile as he took in Taehyung, the love of his fucking life. Time had been kind to the elder, sharpening his already-angular features and introducing a refined grace to his gaze. But beyond those obvious physical changes, time had also done something else for Taehyung.

It had healed him.

There was a renewed brightness behind the elder's smile, an added light warming up his eyes. His spine had lost all traces of prior rigidness and his shoulders were no longer stiff with tension. He laughed easily when recounting stories about his mother, talked about his past trials without any hint of self-blame, and even practiced measured forgiveness on the rare occasions they brought up Bogum. Time had healed Taehyung, and now, the elder was happier and healthier than ever.

Taehyung was also more playful than ever, which he proved by shifting his hands up to Jungkook's cheeks and squishing them together. "Oh, yes. My sweetheart is a brat for life. He never listens to me, he always talks back, and he -"

"Loves you even when you try to sneak up on me," Jungkook finished, his words muffled and almost incomprehensible thanks to how puckered his lips were. "But I knew you were there."

"Did you, now?" Taehyung ran a thumb over Jungkook's lower lip, his eyes sparkling with merriment. "Sure. I totally believe you."

"I did," Jungkook insisted, wrapping his fingers around the elder's wrists and tugging down. With his mouth free to move again, he continued, "You weren't exactly subtle with your approach, angel. Not only could I hear your footsteps, but I could also see your shadow on our bedroom floor."

"Ah," Taehyung beamed, his hands gliding down Jungkook's chest and settling back on his waist, "the student has become the master."

A cocky grin was Jungkook's first reply, followed by, "Considering I run a tactical training and self-defense school with Yoongi, I sure hope so. And we teach the most cunning techniques out there. Tuning into changes in one's surroundings, crafting multiple backup plans, and even -"

"Grinding against your opponents so they lower their defenses?" Taehyung cut him off, the beginnings of a laugh making his voice a bit higher than usual.

"Hey, that was a strategic maneuver," Jungkook countered, his nose crinkling as he laughed along with the elder. "My ass is one of my best assets. I knew it would disarm you."

"You're talking about your ass as if it were a weapon."

If Jungkook were in a different position, he'd once again demonstrate just how dangerous his ass could be. But instead, he hooked his arms around Taehyung's neck and said, "I mean, it pretty much is, Taehyungie. You and I both know I have buns of steel. Buns. Of. Steel."

Taehyung slowly shook his head, the remnants of his laughter fading into a tone rich with disbelief. "Are you sure you're in charge of a wildly successful self-defense program?"

"It might be hard to believe, angel, but it's true. You're dating a businessman."

And it really was true. Jungkook and Yoongi jointly owned and managed a practice specializing in personal safety and protection. The whole thing was somewhat comical to think about - seriously, who would've guessed that a former Chief of Security would willingly work with a self-proclaimed brat? - but the birth of their business and partnership had actually started quite naturally.

In the early days of living at Hoseok's bed and breakfast, Jungkook had attended daily training sessions with Yoongi. Together they had reviewed hand-to-hand combat techniques, covered firearm safety while shooting practice targets, and even performed critical thinking exercises that tested Jungkook on his learned skills. It had been during those sessions that Jungkook found an undeniable passion for self-defense. Understanding how to protect both himself and his loved ones from harm had given him a sense of purpose, a taste of the control he once lacked. And more than anything, he had wanted to give others that same assurance as well.

The idea for the aptly named Bangtan Academy had come easily after that.

Talking Yoongi into starting a business with him had been shockingly simple, so the two had gotten to work after discussing class offerings, needed materials, available budgets . . . all of the basics. But they didn't make those decisions alone; they had a great deal of expertise from their family and friends.

Jin, who had joined a non-profit company as a financial analyst, often advised on bookkeeping and rates. And Namjoon, who had become a motivational speaker after six months in prison and six months on parole, helped create the course schedules. Really, when all was said and done, the launch of Jungkook and Yoongi's training school had become quite the family endeavor.

All while they had been busy getting started, Jungkook had also decided to pursue a degree in business administration. As he had once explained to Taehyung, he wanted to ensure he was prepared to co-manage from a training and an operational perspective. So he had selected a fast-paced and advanced course load, studying hard and putting that knowledge into his passion project.

But that passion project had become more than just a passion project . . . It had become Jungkook's pride and joy. And that pride and joy - that award-winning and highly-rated academy that he and Yoongi built from the ground up - was about to celebrate its second anniversary of existence. It was about to reach yet another milestone that Jungkook couldn't even begin to believe.

And the best part of it all? Jungkook had Taehyung supporting him every step of the way. No matter the setbacks, no matter the crazy ideas - and Jungkook had many - the elder always pushed him to chase his dreams. And because of that neverending encouragement and love, Jungkook felt confident taking risks and making mistakes. He became fearless as he grew into the sort of person he always wanted to be.

And that was all because Jungkook had his angel, his love, and his other half right there with him. It was all because he had unwavering support, steadfast strength, and constant reassurance from his Taehyung.

His Taehyung.

And today . . . so long as everything went according to plan . . . Taehyung would become something else to Jungkook, too. Something more. Something Jungkook spent the last three years of his life looking forward to; something that was never really a question of if but only a question of when.

And the answer to that question was today.

Both he and Taehyung were ready.

God, the fact that this day was finally here . . . Jungkook couldn't believe it. He had been dreaming of this day ever since, like, the third week of his and Taehyung's relationship after all. And while the wait had been torturous at times, he was happy that they hadn't rushed this step. They had needed to find stability in their lives; they had needed to fully heal from their past traumas so they could build brighter futures. But they had done all of those things and were ready now.

They were ready.

And Jungkook had spent weeks - or was it longer? - planning out all of the details for their romantic evening together. First, he would take Taehyung to their favorite restaurant, where he reserved a private rooftop table. On the one hand, his angel loved to be outside, and on the other, the moonlit sky and balmy breeze would help set the mood. After dinner, they would walk along the waters of a local beach, hands clasped between them and shoes abandoned somewhere in the sand. And when the moment was just right, Jungkook would pull Taehyung into his arms and would do what his heart had been yearning to do for years.

He would propose.

And later, once they were crying and giggling and crying some more, they would go back home to celebrate. They would go back to their house - the cozy house they'd purchased in Busan just a year ago - and find all of their friends and family waiting with open arms.

And all of that was going to happen so soon.

Jungkook only had to wait a few hours longer.

But before he could think more about the coming events, before he could run through his mental checklist of things to get done, the comforting sound of his angel's voice brought him back to the present moment.

"My little businessman," Taehyung was murmuring, a tender warmth coloring his gaze. "My intelligent and clever and dedicated businessman. Kook . . . I can't even begin to explain how proud you make me. You've worked tirelessly for everything you've achieved and . . . Fuck. I'm just so lucky, you know? I'm so lucky that you chose to share all of your achievements with me."

"You're such a sap," Jungkook sniffed, his eyes slowly becoming misty as a small lump lodged in his throat. Understandably, he was more emotional than usual this morning.

If Taehyung noticed, he didn't say anything. In fact, he made things even more difficult for Jungkook's delicate emotions and declared, "I'm in love with you, Jeon Jungkook. My life has been full and happy because I've had you by my side. And if telling you these things makes me a sap, then I wholeheartedly welcome that title."

A tear rolled down Jungkook's cheek at that.

"Fuck, Tae. It's too early in the day to make me cry," Jungkook lightly chuckled, his mind unwittingly thinking ahead to their evening. He knew that when it became time to start his speech . . . to bend down on one knee . . . he would undoubtedly become a blubbering mess.

But the elder, still blissfully unaware of what awaited him tonight, didn't understand the true meaning behind Jungkook's statement. So it wasn't that shocking when his soft gaze darkened into a devious gleam, and his tongue lazily licked over his lower lip. He clearly assumed Jungkook's thoughts went somewhere a little less innocent.

And that was all but confirmed when Taehyung looked up through his lashes, his voice husky and deep, and asked, "Oh? Should I make you cry a bit later then, sweetheart?"

Jungkook struggled to remain focused as he noted the shiny path of saliva smeared over Taehyung's mouth. Fuck, that sight prompted his traitorous mind to conjure up images of everything he and his sinful angel could do beneath the sheets. It supplied him with multiple ways in which Taehyung could play with his body and make him cry.

But he was a man on a mission; he still had so many things to accomplish this morning. So he pushed away those provoking visions, blinked away the last of his tears, and teased, "Is that supposed to be sexual?"

"You tell me, my little horn dog."

"Hm," Jungkook let out, his lips pushed into an exaggerated pout as he pretended to consider. "It certainly sounds sexual. But I can't know for sure. Maybe you like seeing me cry regardless of whether I'm naked or not."

"I do like seeing you cry."

"That's not what you're supposed to say."

Taehyung ignored that comment as his hands began to caress the length of Jungkook's spine. "I wasn't finished. I like seeing you cry only when your tears are good tears. Like when I'm making love to you . . . when I'm making you feel so good that you can't control your reactions . . . I like those kinds of tears. Those tears mean I'm worshiping you in the way you deserve to be worshiped. And there are other tears I like, too. Like when I'm making you laugh so hard that you throw back your head, unable to contain your joy. Or when I'm telling you how much I love you, how lucky I am to be loved by you."

Leave it to Kim Taehyung to take a sentimental moment, turn it into something provocative, then make it sentimental all over again.

"Tae . . ."

"Those are the only times I like seeing you cry, sweetheart," the elder finished with a quiet exhale, his hands coming to a stop on the small of Jungkook's back.

"But what about right now?" Jungkook murmured, pushing his fingers into Taehyung's thick head of hair and toying with the slightly curly strands. "How about when I cry because I know you're proud of me?"

"So long as you're happy, Kook, then you can cry all you want. I'll love you and will still be proud of you even when you have wet cheeks and snot coming out of your nose."

"Hey, I'm not a messy crier."

"Yes, you are. But it's cute. I like it."

While it would've been easy to defend himself - to continue this back and forth banter - Jungkook chose to sober his features instead. There was something he wanted to say before they moved on from this topic altogether, something he made an effort to say as often as possible but could probably afford to say even more.

So with his hands still carding through the elder's hair, he softened his tone and said, "Angel?"

Taehyung leaned into the touch, his eyes threatening to flutter shut. "Sweetheart?"

"I'm so fucking proud of you, angel," Jungkook breathed, summoning all the love he had for this man and channeling it into his words. "God, you just make me so proud. No matter what goals you set, you put this beautiful energy and enthusiasm into achieving them. You work your ass off and never give up if things don't go as planned. And seeing you like this . . . happy and passionate and making a difference in people's lives . . . You inspire me so much, Tae. You inspire me every single day."

Taehyung leaned forward, his nose faintly brushing along Jungkook's. "Is this payback? Because now you're going to make me cry."

"It's not payback. It's the truth. You've worked so hard for everything you've accomplished. And," Jungkook emphasized before the elder could say anything more, "for entirely selfish reasons, I can't wait for the day I get to call you Dr. Kim Taehyung. Fuck, that's going to be so sexy . . . I'm going to introduce you as Dr. Kim Taehyung to everyone we meet. And I'm going to put all future dinner reservations under Dr. Kim Taehyung. And -"

"I'm still a few years away from earning my doctorate, Kookie," Taehyung gently chided with a giggle, "so don't get too excited just yet. And besides, it's probably not the best idea to call me a doctor wherever we go. People will assume I'm in the medical field or something."

"You're putting in the work to earn your Ph.D. in psychology, Tae," Jungkook said as he drew back a bit, wanting to convey his seriousness to the elder. "When you get that degree, you're going to be a doctor. You're going to be Dr. Kim Taehyung."

Jungkook could barely contain his pride when thinking about the goals Taehyung had set for himself, the higher education he had decided to pursue. And that pride had nothing to do with personal ego or vanity; Jungkook didn't care whether or not Taehyung had a prestigious prefix attached to his name.

No . . .

He was just so incredibly proud that his angel had found his passion in life. He was just so happy - fucking ecstatic, really - that Taehyung had the safety and the freedom to chase his dreams.

It was about damn time.

After taking an introduction to psychology course a few years back, Taehyung had developed a strong interest in the study of the mind and human behavior. He had often come home from class, babbling with excitement as he described what he'd learned that day and how it applied to his own mental make-up. He had used the science to better understand his response to guilt and grief, and through continued sessions with his therapist, had discovered improved ways of coping and healing.

Once Taehyung had officially declared his major, he had actively searched for opportunities to practice psychology in his everyday life. At the time, he hadn't quite known which direction he wanted to go in - he had been torn between counseling services and clinical research - so he had kept his options open. But after a chance run-in with a director of a local middle school, Taehyung had secured a temporary position shadowing the school's guidance counselor. And after two years of working with young kids, he had decided to pursue a specialization in child development and psychology.

And although the path to becoming a fully licensed child psychologist would not be quick or easy, Taehyung saw it all as a welcome challenge. He had already obtained his bachelor's degree and was now just a couple of months away from graduating with his master's. And to everyone's excitement - but no one's surprise - he had been accepted into one of the top Ph.D. programs in the country. And after his upcoming graduation, he would officially begin the five-to-seven-year process of working towards that final degree.

So, yeah, Jungkook was proud, to say the least. But he was even more honored to be able to witness all of Taehyung's successes firsthand. Not everyone could have that privilege, but by some miracle - or by a cosmic occurrence, maybe - he did.

And that made Jungkook the luckiest man in the world.

Well, second luckiest. Taehyung had already claimed the title of first luckiest, thanks to his exclusive access to Jungkook's massive -

"It does have a nice ring to it, doesn't it? Dr. Kim Taehyung."

Jungkook blinked a few times. He admittedly spaced out there for a moment, a bit too preoccupied with thoughts of Taehyung. Their love. His massive dick. All the ways Taehyung loved to play with his massive dick.

But he quickly grounded himself, returning to their conversation with a bright smile. "Damn right it does, future Dr. Kim Taehyung."

Taehyung took a marginal step closer again, almost as if he couldn't stand that minimal distance between their bodies. And with his eyes glowing - bright with a love he reserved specifically for Jungkook - he giggled, "Say it again."

"Dr. Kim Taehyung."

"Again."

"My beautiful, gorgeous, stunning Dr. Kim -"

Taehyung's mouth was on Jungkook's in an instant, swallowing the rest of those words with a soft, lingering kiss. And the kiss truly was lingering. It was slow and unhurried as Taehyung tenderly cupped Jungkook's jaw with both hands, his thumbs tracing over his cheekbones with a delicate touch. It was sweet as his warm, familiar lips exerted the faintest of pressure, not necessarily deepening the kiss but not cutting it short either. And judging by the way he took his time - mouth gliding over every possible part of Jungkook's - it seemed that the elder would be content doing this all day.

It seemed that Taehyung wanted nothing more than to lazily kiss Jungkook in the mid-morning sun.

And he probably would've done just that if it hadn't been for Jungkook and his intense need to feel Taehyung more.

"Angel," Jungkook whispered against the elder's mouth, angling his head and parting his lips to feel more, to take more, to give more. He just needed to be close, to communicate every single feeling tied to this man in his arms. And this - flicking his tongue against the seam of Taehyung's lips and silently asking for access - was the most honest and pure of ways he could do that.

When Taehyung hummed an appreciative sort of sound, tightening his hold on Jungkook's face and letting his mouth fall open, the relaxed nature of their kisses grew into something more molten, something brimming with passion and intensity. The careful slides of lips over lips, the patient caresses, and the teasing nips transformed into insistent tongues, guttural groans, and thorough explorations of the other's mouth. And while they had kissed like this thousands of times before, the taste and the feeling of each other never got old.

It never would get old.

Just as Jungkook plunged his fingers into the elder's hair, knotting at the root and tugging none too gently, Taehyung disconnected their mouths with a subtle pop. He didn't go too far, however; he dragged his lips across Jungkook's cheek and left whisper-soft kisses below his ear. "As much as I'd love to make out with you all morning, I need to water the flowers before it gets too hot."

"You sound just like Jimin," Jungkook panted, shifting his hands so they cradled the back of the elder's head.

"Well, he did turn me into the gardener I am today," Taehyung laughed, tucking his face into the crook of Jungkook's neck. "Before he left us to open his fancy florist shop in Seoul, he spent hours teaching me everything I needed to know. We bought all the right soils, debated annuals versus perennials . . . Anyway, thanks to him, now we have all those pretty, hypoallergenic flowers in our backyard."

"Those pretty, hypoallergenic flowers are cockblocking me right now."

"Oh, shush, you brat. The flowers aren't doing anything to you." Taehyung placed another barely-there kiss against Jungkook's skin, a reluctant sigh leaving his lips as he said, "Okay, time for me to -"

"No," Jungkook interrupted with a whine, "don't go. Stay here and make love to me."

"We can make lots and lots of love after this mysterious date you're taking me on," was the elder's response, his words airy with amusement as he pulled back from Jungkook. That same amusement lit up his eyes as he added, "Or maybe . . . if you come help me outside . . ."

Jungkook instantly picked up what Taehyung was putting down. "Are you bribing me with sex, angel? Because if you are, it's totally working."

"Me? Bribe you? Never." Taehyung's rebuttal was unconvincing, especially as his fingers stilled over Jungkook's nipples and pinched them through the flannel shirt he wore. "All I'm asking for is a little help in the garden, that's all."

A cross between a moan and a whimper rolled off of Jungkook's tongue, though he made no move to whack the elder's hands away . . . He loved the slightly painful but extremely pleasurable sensations too much. So he just stood there, pasting a smirk over his mouth as he said, "Hm, and what exactly do you need help with, Taehyungie? Planting some seeds? Or maybe handling a hose?"

"I should've known that was coming."

"Do you know what else could be coming -?"

"Oh, my god. I'm going outside now."

While one part of Jungkook wanted to continue making gardening puns, another part - the wiser part - came up with a better idea. But in order to carry out this idea as smoothly as possible, he couldn't make Taehyung suspicious. He had to remain calm, cool, and collected. He had to be suave. Eloquent.

So Jungkook announced, "I'll join you outside in a few, okay? I just need to make a quick call to Yoongi. For work. For paperwork. And stuff."

Shit. So much for suave and eloquent.

Thankfully Taehyung didn't question the meaning of paperwork and stuff or call Jungkook out on his awkwardness. Instead, his lips pushed into a pout and eyebrows scrunched together. "I thought you and Yoongi agreed not to work on the weekends?"

"This can barely be considered work," Jungkook responded, moving his hands to the elder's waist and slowly pushing him towards the door. "It's merely a call between friends who happen to be business partners. And if a conversation around paperwork happens to come up -"

"Alright, alright. I get it," Taehyung chuckled, losing his pouty expression as he walked backward. "Call Yoongi, then join me outside when you're ready, okay? I need your help lifting those heavy bags of soil."

"Please. I've seen you lift those bags without breaking a sweat. You just want to sit back and watch me do some manual labor."

"Well, someone has to make sure you're putting those muscles to good use. And since you're my boyfriend and all, I guess I can take one for the team."

Boyfriend. Jungkook wondered if that would be the last time Taehyung ever called him his boyfriend.

"Well," Jungkook murmured, his heart fluttering in his chest, "since you're my boyfriend and all, I guess I really don't mind if you watch."

Boyfriend. Jungkook wondered if that would be the last time he ever called Taehyung his boyfriend.

The two parted ways after that, with Taehyung leaving a chaste kiss on the corner of Jungkook's mouth before heading down the hall. And while it was a struggle to remain composed, to act casual in case the elder turned around, Jungkook forced himself to lean against the doorframe and pull out his phone. He tapped random patterns on the device's locked screen, listening to each and every footstep Taehyung took down the stairs. And as he lifted his phone to his ear - prepared to carry out a one-sided conversation if needed - he heard the back door to the garden click shut.

And after ten seconds of waiting . . . ten seconds to ensure Taehyung wouldn't come back inside . . . Jungkook sprung into action.

He practically ran down to the laundry room, a cramped little space that Jungkook called his own. It was no secret that he loved doing laundry, with the fresh smell of fabric softener and the repetitive task of folding clothes making him undeniably happy. And while Taehyung often volunteered to help, Jungkook's answer was always the same: thanks, but no thanks. He wanted this chore - this soothing way to unwind - all to himself.

And what did all of that mean? It meant that Taehyung rarely went inside the tiny laundry room.

It meant that Jungkook had the perfect hiding spot for something he'd held onto for over three years . . . A collection of letters from Chinhwa.

In total, there had been twenty-one letters that Chinhwa, the now-retired CEO of Korean National Oil, had given to Jungkook. Twenty of those letters had been from Haneul, all written to Taehyung for various birthdays, holidays, or special events. Jungkook had never read more than was necessary; he only read the first couple of paragraphs so he knew when to present each letter to his angel. And over the last few years, he had done just that. Depending on the occasion - or if he knew Taehyung was missing his mother a little extra - he had handed over all twenty letters to their rightful owner.

And now, only one letter remained . . .

. . . a letter written by Chinhwa and addressed to Jungkook.

After closing the door to the room, Jungkook opened the cabinets above the combination washer-dryer and pushed aside the mix of detergents, fabric softeners, and bleaches. Then, lifting onto his toes and reaching deep into the cabinet, he patted along the shelf until he found the large box of dryer sheets he kept in the back corner. Except this box didn't actually include dryer sheets . . . No, it was where Jungkook had hidden everything Chinhwa had once bestowed to him.

And following today, the box would be empty.

With careful fingers, Jungkook opened the box and pulled out the final letter . . . the letter Chinhwa had written for him all those years ago. The sheet was a bit worse for wear, sporting several creases by the corners and giving off an aged, yellowish hue. But that just meant that this particular letter was both well-read and well-loved; Jungkook had read this message at least once every week for the last three years.

And while he had long since memorized the words on the page, Jungkook found solace in reading Chinhwa's messy handwriting. It was tangible proof that the older man trusted Jungkook, that he had trusted him even though they'd only known each other for a few short weeks at the time. And having that sort of trust from his angel's dad - from a man who was more of a father to him than his birth father ever was - was so incredibly meaningful to Jungkook. It not only reaffirmed that he was doing right by Taehyung, but that Chinhwa welcomed Jungkook into his family with open arms.

So, like all of the days that had come before, Jungkook sat on the counter and started to read.

August 4, 2020

Jungkook,

I had quite the first impression of you.

To understand this impression, I have to take you back to the week I learned of your existence. It was the same week my entire world fell apart . . . the same week I lost my beloved Haneul and the same week I wondered if my son would ever find his way back to me. That week will forever remain one of the worst weeks of my entire life.

And during that same week, I learned that my son had interviewed at my company. I learned that my company had hired him as his own bodyguard, unaware of his true identity thanks to measures I once enforced. And I learned that my son, all while acting as his own bodyguard, decided to protect someone . . . someone who pretended to be him. I learned that Taehyung chose to protect you, Jungkook.

So, yes, I had quite the first impression of you. But do you know what that first impression was? Do you know what I thought?

I thought you were someone worthy of protection. I thought you were someone I needed to thank for watching over my son during a time I could not. I thought you were someone who had come into my son's life for a reason, someone so special that he would damn the consequences to keep you safe. And I thought you were someone who could mean so much more to him if only given the time . . . I thought you were someone my son would want to spend the rest of his life with.

And I was right.

I was right about all of those things.

So that's why I'm writing to you today. That's why I'm entrusting a couple of things to you today.

The first is a stack of letters I found, letters Haneul wrote to Taehyung over the years. I ask that whenever you feel the timing is right, you give these letters to my son. Whether that's next month or next year . . . all at once or individually . . . I'll leave that up to you. I trust your decision.

The second is something much more difficult for me to let go of, but it's something I want you to have. And before you call me up one day and ask why I'm giving this to you - why I'm giving this to you now - let me answer.

You know as well as I do that time does not dictate the depth of a connection. Every relationship moves at a different pace. But with you and Tae . . . you two have already begun to merge your separate lives into one. You two have already started to build a home within each other. And I can see, just by watching you with my son, that he is the love of your life. And without a question in my mind, I know that you are the love of his.

Because of all those things, I'm asking that you safeguard Haneul's wedding band for me. I'm asking that one day - whenever you and Tae are both ready - you use her ring as a way to express your commitment, your love, for my son.

And the reason I'm giving you her ring today? It's because I want you to know something, Jungkook. I want you to know that I trust you with my son's happiness. With his safety. With his heart. I trust that you will love him with your entire being, that you will always have his best interest in mind. And not only do I trust you, Jungkook, but I believe in you as well. I believe in the love you and Taehyung have for each other.

And so I'm giving you my Haneul's ring, I'm giving you my support and my blessings, and I'm giving you my trust. You have earned all of these things. You deserve all of these things.

I am honored to have you as a part of my family.

Chinhwa

After reading the older man's letter, Jungkook carried on with the rest of his self-established tradition. He reached into the box and withdrew a small object, a tiny piece of cloth protecting an extraordinary heirloom. And with the most delicate of touches, he unfolded the material to reveal the ring that once belonged to Taehyung's mother.

The ring was simple in its design, the exterior of the band smooth and plain. It sported a white gold finishing, a color that would beautifully compliment Taehyung's tanned skin tone. But there was something hidden that made the ring extra special, something that Chinhwa had long ago engraved on the inside of the band:

More than yesterday, less than tomorrow.

As part of Jungkook's tradition, he would typically take the ring between his fingers and offer up a kind message to Haneul. He would usually thank her, reassure her that he was taking care of her son, and then would safely return both the ring and Chinhwa's letter to their hiding place.

But not today.

Today, Jungkook took the ring - which he recently got resized to properly fit Taehyung's finger - and asked Haneul for her blessing. He asked her to be with him when he proposed; asked her to shine down on both him and Taehyung during that moment. And then he promised her that he would always love her son, that he would always care for him, and that he'd do whatever possible to make him the happiest man alive.

And then he slipped her ring into the front pocket of his shirt.

A renewed energy coursed through Jungkook's veins as he left the laundry room, his eagerness for the evening making his stomach all fluttery and his limbs oddly light. And while he still had many things on his to-do list - like take out the velvet ring box he'd purchased and unknot the grey silk tie from the headboard to wear with his suit - he was calm. He was at peace.

He was ready.

Just before he flung open the door to the garden, a soft yapping noise drew Jungkook's attention to the floor. There, trotting in between his feet and nuzzling at his ankles, was a small, black-and-tan Pomeranian that he and Taehyung had adopted around eight or nine months ago.

Yeontan.

"Come here, Tannie," Jungkook said, lifting the furry little creature into his arms and chuckling as he received a welcoming lick. "Let's go see your dad."

As soon as Jungkook stepped into their backyard, a moderately-sized space that overlooked nearby valleys and hills, the sweet smell of flowers filled his nose. Years back - especially when he learned of his pollen allergy - he had never considered himself to be a flower sort of guy. They were pretty, sure, and they smelled okay most of the time, but he honestly didn't care for the blooms one way or another.

That mindset changed the first time he had a naked Taehyung laying over a bed of roses. That mindset changed the first time he saw Taehyung on his knees in the dirt, pulling weeds with the biggest smile on his face. That mindset changed the first time Taehyung took him to a local greenhouse, pointing out the various types of hypoallergenic flowers they could plant in their garden and letting Jungkook choose his favorites.

Yeah, he was a flower sort of guy ever since.

When Jungkook was just a few meters away from the elder, he set Yeontan on the grass and gave him a tiny nudge forward. The dog didn't need any additional encouragement; he automatically raced off with a joyful yip and found Taehyung in between a collection of trees, shrubs, and bushes.

A peal of laughter rang out as Taehyung shucked off his gardening gloves, abandoning them in the dirt in exchange for picking up the over-excited dog. "Tannie! You're not the manual labor I was expecting."

"Your manual labor is right here," Jungkook called out, his lips tugging up as he reached Taehyung's side. He ran his fingers through the elder's hair, pushing back the thick strands from his forehead to better see his eyes.

Taehyung looked up from where he knelt on the ground, his gaze roaming all over Jungkook's body. "You're not shirtless."

"Huh?"

"I really thought - well, okay, hoped - you'd be shirtless." Taehyung tugged on the hem of Jungkook's flannel, almost like he wanted to rip it off. "We should make a rule. Anytime you help me with gardening . . . or anytime you do anything remotely involving your muscles . . . you're not allowed to wear a shirt."

"Not happening, Tae. You'd sit on your pretty little ass all day and do nothing but drool," Jungkook teased, falling to his knees and bumping the elder's shoulder with his own. He ruffled Yeontan's fur as he said, "But I have an idea . . . Let's go back inside where I can be shirtless and pantless."

Taehyung simply jerked his chin to the miniature-sized shrub in front of them. "After we finish out here."

"I can work with that." Jungkook turned his attention to the plant, his eyebrows furrowing as he studied the leafy greens. "What's this one? I don't remember this being here last year."

"That's because I planted it at the end of the season," Taehyung explained, setting down Yeontan and shifting around the branches. After a couple of seconds, he revealed a light pink, trumpet-shaped flower with a magenta-colored center. "It's a hibiscus."

"Isn't that South Korea's national flower? How very patriotic of you, Taehyungie," Jungkook giggled as he reached out to touch the flower. Its petals were silky smooth, much like the feel of Taehyung's bare skin against his own . . .

Fuck, Jungkook had to concentrate real hard so his thoughts wouldn't continue down that particular path.

Taehyung ignored the light teasing and instead asked, "Know what it represents?"

Jungkook shook his head.

"Hibiscus flowers are extremely delicate. Their petals can easily tear or get damaged in the wind." The elder paused, sitting down in the dirt so he could properly look at Jungkook. And once Jungkook mirrored his positioning, he continued, "But despite its fragility, the hibiscus represents immortality. It symbolizes something that will never fade."

"That's beautiful," Jungkook murmured, leaning forward so he could place his hands on the elder's folded knees. "It reminds me of my love for you . . . of our love."

"That's one of the reasons I planted it," Taehyung agreed, running his own hands up Jungkook's chest until they reached his pecs. He splayed his fingers wide and added, "We have to nurture our love. We can't just leave it alone and hope that it thrives. But as long as we work for what we have . . . as long as we care for each other . . . we'll always have something beautiful. We'll always have an immortal sort of love."

Jungkook squeezed Taehyung's knees, thinking there was no better way to describe their love. Because he knew - fuck, he knew it in his bones - that his bond with Taehyung would transcend this physical world. He knew that wherever they ended up next, wherever their souls journeyed or rested next, that their love would always bring them back together.

Their love would forever be eternal.

So Jungkook grinned widely, leaning just a bit closer to his angel as he said, "An immortal sort of love . . . I hope you won't get sick of me."

"I could never, even if you are a brat."

"Yeah, but I'm your brat."

"Yes. My brat."

A stream of sunlight fell upon them, lighting up Taehyung's face and painting his skin with a golden hue. Jungkook couldn't help but reach out for him, his palm perfectly cupping the smooth skin of his cheek. "What's the other reason?"

"Hm?" The elder managed, his fingertips digging just a bit deeper into Jungkook's chest.

"You said one of the reasons you planted the hibiscus was because it reminded you of us. So I was curious . . . was there another reason?" Jungkook knew Taehyung well enough to understand there was more. He also knew Taehyung well enough to realize that sometimes he needed a little extra encouragement to get his thoughts out, a little added direction.

But that's why they had each other; they always innately recognized the other's needs.

"Right," Taehyung let out on a breath, his face tilting up towards the sun and sky. "The hibiscus was my mom's favorite flower. So planting this here also reminds me of her . . . It reminds me that her love is immortal, too. Even though she isn't here with us, she will never be far. She will never fade."

"She never will," Jungkook affirmed, his heart oddly beginning to beat faster. He wasn't sure why. "She's always watching over you. Over us all."

A stunning smile spread over Taehyung's lips as he soaked in the sun, his hands moving to settle right over Jungkook's heart. Right over the pocket of his flannel. Right over his mother's ring. And after a moment, he lowered his gaze and met Jungkook's eyes. "You know, I can feel her right now. I can feel her with us, Kook."

Jungkook stopped breathing.

For a moment, he felt nothing but the wild beating of his heart.

And as he sat there, awestruck as he stared at the love of his life, he recalled what he had asked of Haneul just minutes before: Please be with me when I propose to Tae. Please shine down on us both.

This . . .

This was it.

This was the right moment.

Sure, Jungkook had planned their whole evening. He had organized a fancy dinner, had found the perfect place to take a moonlit stroll, and had nearly memorized an eloquent speech. He had planned out everything he could possibly think of, that way he'd give Taehyung the proposal he deserved. And yet . . .

This was it.

This was the right moment.

Haneul was here with them now.

She was shining down upon them both.

As soon as he had that realization, Jungkook's erratic heartbeat calmed in his chest. His lungs filled with air. And his hand - which had started to tremble against Taehyung's cheek - steadied once more.

And forgetting his pretty speech, those poetic words that were impressive but not really him, Jungkook decided to speak from the heart as he whispered, "Angel?"

"Sweetheart?"

"Do you . . . Do you remember when you took a bullet for me?" Jungkook asked, the tone of his voice soft and even a bit shaky. "When you were dying in my arms?"

Taehyung scooted even closer, his knees colliding with Jungkook's. "I wasn't actually dying."

"Well, neither of us knew what was going to happen. Neither of us knew if you'd . . ." Jungkook broke off, not wanting to recall the devastation and terror he felt in that moment. So he shook his head, clearing his thoughts as he continued, "Anyway, do you remember when I talked about our future life together? Do you remember what I said it would look like?"

"I remember."

"Tell me."

"You said we would go back to school and take lots of classes. That we'd graduate," Taehyung answered with a faint hum, the sound a bit nostalgic around the edges.

Jungkook saw all of those milestones in his mind; he saw him and Taehyung enrolling in classes, choosing their intended majors, and walking across the stage at graduation. "We did all those things, didn't we?"

"We did."

"And what about after? What did I say we'd do after?"

"Hm," Taehyung said, pushing his lips together as he pretended to contemplate that years' old conversation. "What did you say?"

"Tae."

"Ah, I remember!" Taehyung smirked, his fingers playing with the pocket of Jungkook's flannel. "You said we would travel. Buy a house. Adopt the world's cutest dog and spoil him rotten. And we did . . . we did every single one of those things."

Moisture pricked at Jungkook's eyes as he briefly recalled the places they had explored . . . the houses they had toured before buying this one . . . the rescue dogs they had played with before meeting - and falling in love with - Tannie. They had done so much together over the years, they had made so many memories, and there was still more to come.

There was so much more to come.

"I missed something important, though," Jungkook murmured as he traced Taehyung's face with his fingers. "I jumped over a really important step when I said all of those things to you."

Taehyung cocked his head to the side, his eyebrows knitting together on his forehead. "What do you mean?"

"I had said . . . I had said that we'd get married when we were older. I had said that we'd get married, Tae. But I forgot to say what would come before . . . I forgot to tell you that I'd propose to you one day, that . . . that I'd place a ring on your finger and call you my fiancé. I forgot to say that I'd ask you to marry me and that I'd ask you to spend the rest of your life by my side."

Taehyung instantly understood. It was obvious, really, with the way his eyes widened and his mouth fell open. It was even more obvious when he plunged his fingers into Jungkook's hair, pulling him closer so their foreheads were pressed together, and exhaled a gravelly, "Kook."

"I am so in love with you, Kim Taehyung," Jungkook breathed, barely noticing the tears threatening to spill over his lash line. "You're my best friend in the entire world, and when I picture my future . . . It's you, Tae. You're my future. I knew it all those years ago and I know it now."

"Sweetheart."

"And you know what's funny?" A tear rolled down Jungkook's cheek then, tickling his skin in its descent. But he paid it no mind; the only feeling he could focus on was the feeling of the elder beneath his hands. "I can still remember the very first thing you said to me. You said, don't move. And ever since that moment, my heart's never moved away from yours, Tae. It's never wanted to. It's never going to. And I -"

Taehyung closed those few centimeters of space between their mouths, gently pressing his lips to Jungkook's. And every movement . . . every brush of skin against skin . . . was so tender, was so slow and deliberate, that Jungkook realized this was more than a spontaneous, emotion-fuelled kiss.

It was an answer to an unasked question.

And sure enough, as Taehyung pulled back just to pepper kisses all over Jungkook's cheeks, nose, forehead, and lips again, he giggled, "Well? Are you going to propose or am I going to have to do that myself?"

"Hey, I was in the middle of proposing, but someone here interrupted me," Jungkook said, puckering his lips to receive more kisses.

The elder obliged, pecking Jungkook's mouth over and over and over again. "I couldn't help it, sweetheart. But go on, I won't interrupt again. Promise."

Jungkook smiled against Taehyung's lips, his heart expanding in his chest as he started to nod his head. He kept on smiling, kept on nodding, as he held the elder's hands within his own and placed them right over his heart. Right over the pocket of his flannel. Right over Haneul's ring.

And then he leaned back, meeting Taehyung's gaze and finding an eternity of love and trust and commitment sparkling just for him to see.

And then he asked the question he had been waiting three years to ask.

"Angel . . . Will you marry me?"

There was no hesitation, no pause at all, as his angel - his other half and his love - smiled the brightest smile and proudly spoke one simple, meaningful, and life-changing word.

"Yes."

And suddenly Taehyung was in Jungkook's lap, kissing him and laughing and kissing him again. Tears coated his cheeks, the shimmering paths glittering under the mid-morning sun, but it was beautiful. He was beautiful.

He was Jungkook's fiancé.

"Wait, wait, wait," Jungkook said in between kisses, his hands letting go of the elder's so he could reach into his pocket. "I only get one chance to propose to the love of my life, so I have to do this right."

Jungkook took the ring out from his flannel, a ray of sunlight making the band glow. And, holding it up so Taehyung could see, he said, "I love you more than yesterday, but less than tomorrow."

Recognition immediately flashed behind Taehyung's eyes as he focused all of his attention on Jungkook. "What . . . What did you just say?"

"I love you more than yesterday, but less than tomorrow, Kim Taehyung."

"I . . ."

"Look at the ring, angel."

Taehyung did as was asked and finally looked down at the ring. He scanned over it for a moment, nothing moving beside the flitting of his eyes. And then - in an instant - his long, elegant fingers reached out for the white gold band, delicately skimming along the smooth metal. He clearly knew what this ring was and who it previously belonged to.

"You had this," Taehyung let out, his voice full of disbelief and wonder. "How . . . How long have you had this?"

Jungkook repositioned the elder's hand, holding it reverently with his own as he began to slide the ring down the correct finger. After he heaved a sigh of relief - it fit just right, thank god - he explained, "I've had your mom's ring for years, Tae. Your dad gave it to me three years ago."

Taehyung gaped at the ring for three seconds, two, one, then snapped his head up. "You . . . Oh, my god. All those years ago . . . My dad didn't just give you the letters the day we left Seoul for Busan. He also gave you my mom's ring."

"Yeah," Jungkook confirmed, finding his angel's - his fiancé's - reaction to be comical. "Are you surprised?"

"Am I surprised? Kook," Taehyung chuckled, lifting his newly bejeweled hand and cupping Jungkook's jaw, "I've been asking my dad for a full year to give me my mom's ring. I was going to propose to you, sweetheart. As soon as I got her ring, I was going to propose to you. But my dad was always so cryptic, saying I'd get the ring when the time was right, and I . . . I never guessed it was with you."

"And I never guessed you were looking for it," Jungkook said as he pressed his face against the elder's palm. "And for an entire year. Are you mad that I waited this long to propose?"

"No, sweetheart. Never. Because now . . . We're fully ready now. We've built this incredible life together and we're ready. God, I am so ready to marry you."

"Really?"

"Really," Taehyung said, drawing so close to Jungkook that his eyes were all Jungkook could see. "You have been my dream since the very beginning, Kook. Even when we'd only known each other for forty-eight hours, I knew I could never imagine my life without you. I knew I'd never want to go back to living a life that didn't have you in it. And I knew that one day . . . I knew we would make it here one day, sweetheart. I knew that you and I were meant to be together. And I've never cared about how long it took because I knew. I knew that this was our fate all along."

"Tae," Jungkook murmured, just needing to say his name and to feel that single syllable vibrate over his tongue.

"I love you, Jeon Jungkook. With my heart, and my soul, and with everything I have to give. I will always love you. And now . . ."

"Now we're engaged. Now I'm gonna be Kim Jungkook."

"Oh, yeah? Is that what you decided on?" Taehyung whispered, once again bringing his lips to Jungkook's mouth.

And all while letting his eyes flutter shut, all while setting his hands on Taehyung's lower back, and all while brushing his lips in the softest and most cherishing of strokes, Jungkook whispered back, "I pretended to be a Kim all those years ago, so I thought why not make it official?"

Taehyung laughed against Jungkook's lips, pulling him tighter into his arms and kissing him with everything he had to give. And as Jungkook kissed him back, as he kissed him and laughed and cried, he continuously pledged his life to his love. He promised over and over and over again to be Taehyung's shelter, his safety, his home.

And he would . . . they both would. Jungkook and Taehyung would always be each other's shelter, their safety, and their home. They would always fight for each other. They always would love each other.

And they would always be the other's dream.

No matter what.

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The End.

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》 V A L E N W R I T I N G 《

The number of times I teared up or full-on cried while I wrote this epilogue . . . let's just say it was A LOT. I can't believe we've reached the end! Like . . . how is that possible?!

What did you think of the epilogue? I wanted to give a good glimpse of how they settled into their lives, to show how comfortable with living they had become, and I hope I did that all justice!

And as expected, I have so, so much to say about my journey with No Going Back. So please continue on to my Author's Note so I can share all of my thoughts and feelings with you!