...

Jungkook was barely keeping his eyes open. The tough bargain he played with Youngjae last night took almost half of his sleeping hours and when he finally got home it was already half-past three am. Even though he wasn't drunk, he still had a rather high level of alcohol in his system. He took some Aspirin, swallowed coffee in three big gulps, almost burning his tongue in the process and rushed outside. He needed a solid breakfast before he even dare to start his day, so he bought some food and ate it in a matter of a few minutes as soon as he came to work.

-'' Someone is starving.'' – Jackson notices.

-'' I slept little, I need energy.'' – Jungkook says taking a huge bite of tuna gimbap.

-'' Late night?'' – The blond perks up right away. – ''Were you out? Did you have fun? Did you get any?''

Jungkook groans, both of his cheeks hamster-full. – '' Fuck off.'' – He barely manages.

Jackson laughs. – '' I'll take that as a no.''

-'' I was working.'' – Jungkook adds.

-'' That late?'' – Jackson arches his brow.

Jungkook nods.

-'' Uh, tell me more.'' – Jackson leans forward, wanting some juiciness. – '' Do you have some exotic second job? Do you strip in the gay bars?''

-'' Man, what the fuck?''

Jackson was roaring with laughter at Jungkook's indignant expression.

-'' I couldn't help it.'' – The blond admits. – '' But honestly, what was about?''

-'' Can't. Classified.''

Jackson groans. – '' Ah, I knew it. ''- He gasps in a practised drama. – ''I knew you will become almighty once you move floors.''

Jungkook giggles. – '' Jack, shut up.''

Jackson grins. – ''Only if you give me that nice-looking hotteok you also plan to eat.''

-'' Not a chance.'' – Jungkook stuffs his cheeks with the last bite of gimbap, dragging sweet pancake towards him.

-'' You are the worst.'' – Jackson grumbles.

Jungkook eats half of it, feeling full, so he stands up, brushing his hands and mouth with the paper tissues. – '' Here.'' – He offers the other half to beaming Jackson.

-'' You are the best!'' – Jackson exclaims.

Jungkook chuckles.. – ''' Funny how that changes fast.''

He went to see Moonbyul, he needed to ask her to get him some info on the Kims. He also remembers that he has lunch planned with Hoseok this afternoon. He could use his input as well.

He went up to Yoongi's department and was pleasantly surprised when he saw a familiar face.

-'' Soobin? What are you doing here?'' – Jungkook grins at his dear dongsaeng. Choi Soobin was one of his gaming friends. They met online and wage a war against one another on many games they happened to play together. So, naturally, they began talking. To say that Soobin was surprised when he heard about Jungkook's occupation will be an understatement since his mouth stood open in shock for a good three minutes after he found out. They became gaming buddies ever since then.

Hearing a well-known voice, Soobin turned and grinned, the smile got his dimples showing.

-'' Hyung, hi.'' – He greets happily. – ''Noona called me.''

-'' Noona?'' – He asks confused.

-'' Moonbyul Noona.'' – The young man clarifies.

-'' Why?'' – Jungkook was still puzzled.

Just at that moment, Moonbyul showed up, slapping Jungkook on the head with her notebook. – '' That's none of your concern, brat.''

Jungkook hissed at a sudden blow. – '' Aish, Noona, do you have to hit that hard?''

-'' Do you have to ask stupid questions?'' – She asks, raising one of her eyebrows.

-'' I was just surprised to see him here.'' – Jungkook brushed his hair.

-'' I need his assistance.'' – Was all she says before continuing towards her office.

Soobin grinned wider and shows his ''guest assistant' nametag. – ''I got the pass and all.'' – He says.

Jungkook chuckles and ruffles his hair.

-'' Come on bunny, we haven't got all day!'' – Moonbyul shouted and both Jungkook and Soobin turned at that. There was a silence. Jungkook's eyebrows rose in surprise as it seems that the nickname was used on Soobin as well as him. Her head pops from the door. – '' The taller one!'' – She says before disappearing inside the room.

Both men looked at each other before Soobin moved.– '' I better not keep Noona waiting.''

Jungkook, still very much intrigued, followed them inside.

-'' How do you two even know each other?'' – He asks, genially curious.

-'' Same way I know you. Gaming.'' – Soobin answers with a cheeky smile.

Jungkook's eyes grew wide as he looked at Moonbyul. – ''Noona, you are a gamer?''

She leans in her chair, staring at him. – '' What? You think me too old to play games?''

Jungkook shook his head instantly. – ''No! Not at all, I just had no idea you play. What name are you using?''

-'' Moonstar.'' – She answers, typing something in the program.

-'' You are Moonstar!? Woah.'' – Jungkook opens his mouth in surprise. – '' You are a serious rival of mine, Noona.''

She looks at him, brows furrowing in slight confusion.

-'' I'm Seagull.''

She burst out laughing. – '' You are the little ass that's been rattling my cage all this time? Oh, be glad I didn't know that before after you took that prize from me. I was ready for a kill.'' – She says dangerously. Jungkook bit his lower lip so he won't laugh. He found this amazing. Who knew that the two biggest rivals in their gaming community were actually in the same office with him right now.

-'' You two seriously didn't know before this?'' – Soobin asked amazed.

Jungkook shook his head. – '' How could we? We don't talk online. Noona ignores me.'' – He laughs.

-'' Of course, I do, you are an annoying brat.'' – She says, her head turning towards her screen, but the corners of her mouth turn into a little smile.

Jungkook splutters. – '' And you talk with him?'' – He points at dimple-grinning Soobin.

Moonbyul turns towards the youngest man and pinches his cheek. – '' Of course, I do. He is a good bunny.''

Jungkook rolls his eyes. – '' You call me a bunny as well.'' – He complains, and Moonbyul turns her eyes on him, scowling.

-'' I was because you were a cute little fetus. Then you have to go all muscle pig on us.'' – She says.

-'' Aww, Noona, but you like me.'' – Jungkook lean on her chair.

She rolls her eyes. – '' I do not.''

Her denial didn't convince anyone, and Soobin began laughing, but quickly stopped when she scowled at him.

Jungkook was satisfied, so he asked. – '' What is he to assist you for?''

She nods at Soobin. – '' He is good with research.''

-'' I know, he helped me a few times.'' – Jungkook agreed. – '' What are you working on?''

-'' Oh, just some tedious stuff, but Yoongi-ah wants me to focus on something else so I need some help with other stuff.''

-'' Surely you have tons of assistants around here that could help you?'' – Jungkook asks in bewilderment.

-'' I don't have patience for them. Besides, I've worked with the bun on several occasions, outside of the office, so Yoongi gave a green light to bring him here.''

-'' Noona, what do you have for me?'' – Soobin asks, unpacking his laptop.

-'' You won't be needing that.'' – She says, pointing at his computer. – '' Secrets and all that. You will use one of ours, which has more power than that little toy of yours.''

-'' Hey, don't talk about my baby like that.'' – Soobin says, patting his laptop. – ''It's awesome.''

She snorts. – '' Sure it is. We'll see if you gonna say that after you sit with this monster for a while.'' – He taps at one of the laptops on her right. – '' I build it myself.''

Jungkook pats Soobin's shoulder. – '' Noona is a computer expert, so you better believe it.''

-'' I know she is. I don't doubt it.'' – Soobin says, pouting. – '' I just don't like when someone says bad things about my baby. It has feelings.''

-'' Oh, grow up.'' – She says.- '' Go, login, I've written it down for you. Check the folder by the name of ''TXT247''. You will find links there. I want you to go through them, write down everything you notice that is out of the ordinary, then cross-reference with the database and go search for the anomalies you find. Got it?''

-'' Got it.'' – He nods and went to sit at the appointed desk.

Jungkook leans closer to Moonbyul. – '' Noona, did you have time to check that info I've sent you this morning?'' – He asks. He considered sending her a message right after he left the karaoke rooms but thought better of it when he saw how late it was, so, instead, he wrote himself a reminder to ask her to gather some info on Kims as soon as he woke up.

She nods, opens one of many notebooks on her table and pulls the sheet of paper. – '' Here. Dates, names, contacts, everything you ask for.''

Jungkook gives her a side hug, which made her groan in irritation, even though he knows that she secretly likes it.

Jungkook bends the paper a few times and puts it in his pocket, ready to leave when the door opens and one of Yoongi's assistants in a long white coat enters. Moonbyul turned livid.

-'' How many times did I tell you to knock first, Yeonjun!?'' – She snaps at the youth with a plump mouth and pretty face. He just grins at her.

-'' You know I tend to forget that. Hey, Hyung!'' – He turns towards Jungkook and gave him a big smile.

Moonbyul, still annoyed, hiss at him. – '' It's called manners you imp. Better learn it or I'm gonna lock you in Yoongi's personal lab, and you know how much he hates when someone enters his domain without his permission!?''

Yeonjun gulps. The idea of pissing Yoongi sobered him up a bit. – '' Now, now, Noona, don't be like that. It's just a simple knock on the door.''

-'' Precisely what I say!'' – She says acidly. – '' It's the simplest thing to knock on the door.''

-'' Alright, alright, I'm sorry. Sorry.'' – Yeonjun made a cute face at her, which was ignored. He goes that far as to knock on her door, just to calm her. It doesn't work, but in Yeonjun's mind, it's enough. – '' It won't happen again, Noona, I promise. Well hello.'' – His tone changed 90 degrees on the last sentence, from cute to seductive in a second. Jungkook, confused, followed Yeonjun's gaze which was glued to Soobin form on the chair.

-'' Umm... h-hi.'' – The man says weekly, raising his hand to give a small wave.

-'' I haven't seen you around.'' – Yeonjun says, entering the office. – '' Are you new here?'' – He turns to Moonbyul. – '' Noona, is he our new colleague? Please tell me he is.'' – He says hopefully, and Jungkook had to bit his laugh because Soobin looked like a scared bunny, and Yeonjun the sly fox.

-'' He is not.'' – Moonbyul says. – '' He is just a temporal assistant. And stop freaking out the guy.''

-'' I'm not freaking him out.'' – Yeonjun says affronted, and then turns toward Soobin, eyes round. – '' Am I freaking you out?''

Soobin shakes his head in a silent no.

-'' There. He says I'm not. Noona, stop making me sound like a maniac. I was being friendly.'' – Yeonjun protested. He offers Soobin his hand and a huge charming smile. – '' I'm Yeonjun, by the way.''

-'' Umm... Soobin.'' – He answers, taking the offered hand and smiling back, his dimples showing.

Yeonjun makes a sound between a gasp and groan. – '' Dimples.'' – He whispers to himself then turns towards Moonbyul. – '' Noona, he has dimples!'' – The whisper was too loud, and it made Soobin duck his head shyly. Jungkook leaned on the wall, arms crossed, giggling silently and utterly enjoying the show.

Yeonjun turns towards Soobin again, smiles quite flustered and says. – ''Hi!'' - ... yet again.

-'' Oh, bloody hell!'' – Moonbyul rolls her eyes and then pulls Yeonjun away from Soobin. – ''Stop flirting. Was there something you need?'' – She asks.

Yeonjun almost whined, but then shook his head to clear his mind. – '' Yes, yes! I was. I just can't remember. Oh, yes, I got the results you wanted.''

He took the tablet from his wide pocket and tapped it a few times. – '' Here. I sent it to you.''

She narrows her eyes. – '' You could just do that in the first place, without coming in.''

-'' And miss the opportunity to talk to the cute guy, hell no.'' – Yeonjun arched his eyebrows.

-'' You had no idea that he was even here.'' – Moonbyul protested.

-'' I've heard some new guy has come, so I come to check it out.'' – He says matter-of-factly.

-'' All of you are a bunch of hens gossiping around instead of working.'' – Moonbyul shakes her head, taking the exasperated sigh.

-'' We do not gossip, we share information. It's a research branch, so knowledge is important.'' – Yeonjun says, but Moonbyul interrupts him.

-'' Same shit, different package.''

Jungkook laughs. – '' Noona, your language is always profound.''

-'' You, be quiet. Yeonjun, get out.''

-'' Rude.'' – Yeonjun says without any inclination of leaving. What's more, he just leans on Moonbyul's desk. – '' Besides, I wanted to tell you personally about this thing.''

He proceeds to show her something on the tablet and the two began discussing it. To Jungkook's ears, it sounded like a foreign language. He and Soobin shared a look and just shrugged their shoulders.

-'' Wanna grab lunch later on?'' – Jungkook asked and Soobin nodded. – '' Sure, Hyung.''

-'' Can I join?'' – Yeonjun asked suddenly which startled both men. Soobin looks back and forth between Yeonjun and Jungkook, not knowing what to answer.

-'' I mean...sure...if... if Hyung agrees... or not...'' – Soobin stammered, and Jungkook took pity on him.

-'' Maybe next time Yeonjun, I have something to discuss with Soobin.'' – Jungkook says apologetically but firmly.

-'' Yeah, stop putting your ass when you're not invited.'' – Moonbyul calls. – '' Now, go and inform Yoongi about what we just discussed.''

Yeonjun's face drooped, his eyes cast down. – '' Alright, I'm leaving.'' – He says and walks towards the door.

-'' Yeonjun-ssi.'' – Soobin calls.

Yeonjun turns at that.

-'' I will be here tomorrow as well, so maybe tomorrow?''

Yeonjun's entire face lit again and he smiled widely, biting his lower lip, nodding. – '' Yes, absolutely.'' – He says, which made Soobin grin as well.

Moonbyul rolled her eyes painfully now. – '' Oh, brother.''

Jungkook giggled in his hand.

___

The restaurant that Hoseok dragged him to later in the day was new and fancy. Too crowded and flashy for his taste. Jungkook didn't like it much, but since Hoseok insisted on going here, Jungkook pretended to enjoy it.

- '' Jungkookie, you are a terrible actor you know.'' – He says through giggles, his hand covering his mouth. – '' I can see a mile away that you don't like this place.''

Jungkook felt bad because of it, but only for a second because Hoseok agreed. – '' You are absolutely right. The place is too crowded, the food is mediocre and they don't even have good wine here. It's just hyped up without real reason.''

-'' And they are pricey as hell.'' – Jungkook grumbles.

Hoseok shrugs. – '' It's all just good commercial, nothing more.'' – Hoseok agrees, taking another bite of his food.

-'' I still want to pay half simply because I think it's too much.'' – Jungkook protested but Hoseok just shakes his head with a smile.

-'' Hyung's got it covered.'' – His voice left no room for argument, and Jungkook still felt bad. – ''Besides....'' – Hoseok continues as he didn't notice a defiant facial expression on his dongsaeng. – ''... sometimes you get things or people that are not to your satisfaction while pursuing many wonderous pleasures in life, and that's ok. Still, let's not be too picky and try to enjoy this expensive food, yeah?''

Jungkook nods and dives into his ''medium-rare'' steak, which was overdone, and too chewy for his taste.

-'' Hyung.'' – Jungkook asks for Hoseok's attention while trying to cut through the meat. - '' What do you know of Kim Seokjin?''

Hoseok's eyebrows went up in surprise, but his look quickly changed into thoughtful as he went through file after file after file of the information and data he kept in his head.

He chews his food slowly and swallows before humming in thought.

-'' Hmm, Kim Seokjin. The heir of Kim Enterprise.'' – He says, taking a sip of wine. – '' Their two major businesses are jewellery and security, but they also do a lot of fundraisers for different charities and always help small businesses. Whenever some big event or gala needs to organize they call them.'' – He places his glass back on the table and takes a bite of pickled radish. – '' There is one event they organize soon.'' – He says.

-'' Can you get me in?'' – Jungkook asks hopefully.

Hoseok's brows furrow in confusion. – '' I could try, why?'' – He wanted to know.

-'' I need to ask him some questions and I want to take him off guard, so he won't have time to prepare.'' – Jungkook fills his mouth with food.

-'' Is he a suspect in this case of yours?'' – Hoseok asks.

Jungkook shakes his head. – '' He might have sold the fake necklace.'' – He speaks with his mouthful and gets reprimanded for that by his Hyung.

-'' Kims are very respectful.'' – Hoseok leans back in his chair, the wine glass in his hand. – '' Their family has been in the jewellery business for a century, passed from generation to generation. I don't think they will dirty their reputation with fakery.'' – Hoseok says convinced.

-'' Perhaps, but I still want to see.'

-'' Why not ask for an appointment?''

-'' It takes too long, and he's busy, according to his secretary, until the end of the month, so the fundraiser is my best opportunity to approach him.'' – Jungkook says after he finally swallows that unnecessarily big bite, his eyes watering slightly. He takes a huge gulp of wine and makes a face.

Hoseok smiles at his antics, and nods, agreeing. – '' Fine, I'll see what I can do.''

Jungkook was truly grateful. If anyone could get you to places it's Hoseok. He was so glad he has him on his side.

-'' What else do you know about them? The Kims.'' – He clarifies quickly.

- '' The middle brother, Namjoon, is the CEO of the Kim Security company.'' – Hoseok cuts a small piece of meat and eats it.

-'' Yes, I heard that. He is not in public much.'' – Jungkook shifts in his chair, reaching for some water.

-'' No, he prefers not to be in public eyes, unlike his two siblings.'' – Hoseok confirms. – '' He is rather quiet and reserved, from what I heard. Very intelligent too, speaks seven languages.''

-'' What? Seven languages?'' – Jungkook was shocked.

-'' Mhm...'' – Hoseok nods. – ''All three are fluent in several languages, but Namjoon speaks seven fluently, and who knows how many is he still learning.''

Jungkook whistled in awe. There was a few moments of silence as they ate before Jungkook asked.

-'' What about their youngest brother? According to the newspapers and magazines, he is a real scandal maker. What's his role in the company? ''

Hoseok chuckled. – '' He is not in the company.''

Jungkook knit his brows together. – '' Why?''

-'' He is a free spirit. Prefers partying, causing scandals, drinking and enjoying life.'' – Hoseok huff a laugh. – '' He seems like he is a good companion.''

Jungkook's face was still narrow. -'' There must be something he does. I'm having trouble believing that they just let him waste family money and ruin their reputation.'' – Jungkook tilted his head to better observe his friend.

-'' Oh, he doesn't use their money. Their mother had money of her own, so she left everything to Taehyung.''

-'' Why just him?''

Hoseok shrugged. – '' I don't know. Perhaps she saw his unstoppable nature and didn't want to cause trouble among the brothers. Their father's fortune was way bigger than hers, so it didn't matter. Seokjin is the head of the family and fortune, Namjoon is the head of their businesses, and Taehyung is their spark that keeps them on their toes.''

After his visit to Youngjae, Jungkook went online and checked everything about Kims that he could find. -'' Their parents died. The mother from cancer, the father from a skiing accident.''

-'' Yes, and both are only three years apart from one another. Sad things.'' – Hoseok shook his head slightly.

-'' Seokjin. What's he like?'' – Jungkook asked curiously.

-'' Hmmm, I met him twice. He is very pleasant and friendly on the outside. Very charming and knowledgable.''

-'' But on the inside?'' – Jungkook prompted, Hoseok smiled.

-'' On the inside, he is a sly and intelligent motherfucker. He notices everything and you can't fuck with him, because he can sniff the lie mile away, or so I was told.''

-'' Hmm...so not easily tricked?'' – Jungkook wondered.

-'' Oh, no. You shouldn't even try.'' – Hoseok giggles.

Jungkook made a face, which only made his Hyung giggle harder.

-'' Here, try the radish, it's good.'' – He places a nice peace in Jungkook's bowl. Then remembering the question that's been tickling his brain for a few minutes now, he asks.

-'' How did the meeting with Youngjae go? Did he tell you about Kims, or it was someone else?''

Jungkook munches the radish, washing it down with water this time.

-'' I did, last night. I swear the man is as sly as a fox.'

Hoseok's eyes shined with mirth. – '' I reckon the information worked?''

-'' Oh, it was magical Hyung. You are a genius.'' – Jungkook smiled in pure gratefulness. – '' I have never seen anyone pretending to hate someone like he does Park Chanyeol.''

That made Hoseok laugh out loud, covering his mouth with his hand. – '' Yes, they are ridiculous like that. They always act like a cat and a dog, but deep down they love their rivalry.'' – He says between the giggles.

Jungkook leans forward and whispers. -'' He got a boner just by thinking about screwing the man over.''

Hoseok laughs some more. – '' Oh, stop, my stomach hurts.''

-'' Honestly, I had no idea this k-drama is happening. Please let me know how it plays.''

They both allow the fresh set of giggles to envelop them, trying to cover their laughs since people were watching them disapprovingly for being too loud.

-'' And yes, he did tell me about it – the Kims, I mean.'' – Jungkook says after a while. – '' He mentioned his informant that was shown the piece by the owner. He says that he recognized that it's fake just by glancing at it.''

-'' It could be if he's an expert.'' – Hoseok adds, taking another bite.

Jungkook shakes his head. – '' He's not. It's Bam-Bam.''

Hoseok's eyes widened. – '' The guy you arrested a few weeks ago?''

-'' M-hmm... ''

-'' Now that's a weird coincidence.'' - Hoseok muses, reaching to get some kimchi.

-'' It is, and you won't believe what torture I had to endure to get that name.''

He proceeds to describe the story from the last night finding in Hoseok the perfect listener. He laughed when needed, gasped when he was expected and kept his silence in between, reserving his questions for later.

-'' I don't remember him ever being that cuddly with another man before.'' – Hoseok hums in thought, his glass of wine halfway to his mouth. – '' Not even when he was drunk. He must like you.''

Jungkook snorts. – '' He likes the information I gave him, but I think that he won't say no to Chanyeol.''

That made Hoseok choke on his wine. He coughed a few times, eyes watering. – '' You will kill me one day.'' – He says to Jungkook who chuckles, grinning widely.

-'' Nah, I respect you too much for that Hyung.'' – He says, taking another bite of his steak.

Three days later Hoseok send him a message. – '' The fundraiser ticket will be in your postal box in the next five days so expect it.''

His Hyung was amazing. He will never stop repeating how lucky he was that the Jungs lived in the house next to his. Not only was Hoseok a true gem with vast abilities and talent, but he was also a great Hyung. Jungkook went online and found a nice gift for him. He paid and typed Hyung's address for delivery. He knew that Hoseok will enjoy an adorable plushy Zuoshini rainbow sunflower pillow. It was simply made for him.

___

Jungkook was standing in one of the corners where the auction exponents were placed. It was a VIP area where only a few chosen buyers could come and observe the pieces before the auction starts. It was a privilege even money can't buy, only loyalty. He was turning around in bewilderment, seeing so many things that will, in all probability, all be sold in a matter of two hours.

Seeing all that posh, rich people made him feel out of place. He had one suit that he bought for Hoseok's sister's wedding and a somewhat ugly tie that he bought very cheap, but it was the best one from the bunch. He hated to dress up formally. He was grateful that the Force didn't require their detectives to wear suits as uniforms. You could wear pants and shirts, boots, and letter jackets as well. If you mingle on the streets often, especially in the shady neighbourhood, you need to look the part. So suits and ties are for the upper-class agents. Jungkook was glad he was not one of them. At this moment, however, he did wish he was wearing something more fitting, but alas, he has better things to spend his money on.

His attention was drawn by one painting if you can call it thus since all it contained on that big white canvas were three big smears twirling around one another in the middle. The only colours on it were something like dirty red, dark blue and mustard yellow, Jungkook didn't know those fancy names of colours and shades besides the basic ones. Hoseok will, later on, inform him that the colours in question are maroon, navy blue and ocher. Jungkook will look at him blankly because he never heard of those, except for navy blue, maybe. He knew the group, Maroon 5, though.

He wondered how anyone could like this? He certainly didn't, and could never be persuaded to hang it on the wall in his room if someone was to gift it to him. But for giving money for that, hell no. It looked way too simple, with way too ugly colours. If you were to paint three smears across the white canvas then at least make them bold and vibrant, or just black, not this. Jungkook thought.

-'' Find something of interest?'' – The voice jerked him slightly. He was so absorbed in his thoughts about the damn thing that he hasn't heard someone approaching. Jungkook turns and gave the man an appraising look. It was none other than the owner of this exquisite store – Kim Seokjin.

He looked like a model. His tailored suit and tie were spotless, showing off his wide shoulders and nice waist. His hair was stylishly coiffed, forehead exposed, under which two shining soul searching eyes gleamed with interest. He was tall as well.

Jungkook gulped slightly, strangely feeling on the edge, because no photographs in the magazines could prepare him for the real thing. Seokjin, besides his handsomeness, poses the aura of a very clever, very strong and confident man. His dominance was visible to all the people in the room. Everyone knew him, everyone respected him like he was some royalty. According to Hoseok, he was an unpredictable and very high skilled player in many games.

So he decided to do a bit more direct approach, saying almost boldly.

-'' I try to understand why people spend a ridiculous amount of money on a few smears on canvas?''

The corner of Seokjin's mouth twitched upwards in a smirk, closing his eyes for a second like he is mentally preparing himself to explain to a child why the water is wet. Jungkook didn't appreciate it.

-'' Because it's art.'' – He answered matter-of-factly, one of his eyebrows rising to make a point. He continued when Jungkook snorted. – '' Art comes in many forms, shapes, and sizes. It could be breathtakingly beautiful, a masterpiece, decided by many, or even ugly if there is an emotion in that ugliness as well. Art takes it all. It's the people who judge too harshly.''

-'' Well, this...'' – Jungkook nodded towards the painting. – '' Is certainly not....umm... breathtakingly beautiful, as you put it.''

Seokjin's small smile widens a bit like he was amused.

-'' You have a right to an opinion, certainly, but that's only one of many out there who are, you might find it surprising, very different from your own.'' – Seokjin said, approaching the painting to admire it.

-'' Don't tell me you like it?'' – Jungkook asked dumbfoundedly, deciding to tease. – '' I thought you ought to have good taste.''

Seokjin tossed his head up and laughed freely. His laugh was quite refreshing from his spotless persona.

-'' Oh, but I do.'' – He said, still chuckling. – '' If you ask me If I would buy it, the answer is no. Would I hang it on my wall, the answer is maybe I could find a place for it.'' – He tilted his head to look at Jungkook. – '' But if you are asking am I respecting it? Then it's a yes. I respect the art and the artist.''

Jungkook stared at him. – '' So you personally know the artist then?'' – He asked.

Seokjin shook his head. – '' Alas no, he died some 46 years ago, but the point is in the way he got to that colour shading. He didn't use the old proper paint, he used an experimental paint of his own making, which just adds to admiration.''

Seokjin told the man's name and Jungkook forgot it almost instantly, which was embarrassing for his detective skills, but he was utterly overwhelmed by the settings, the things, and most importantly his host, Seokjin. He wondered if all Kims are that gorgeous in person. Not to mention their way with words, and the knowledge of the world they have. That was some high-class shit, he concluded.

Now, Jungkook wasn't stupid, he was a very smart Detective if he says so himself, but not being part of another class has his downsides. He was excellent with the lower branch of people, thieves, thugs, criminals, bullies, murderers, yes, Jungkook knew them, and he knew them well. He could have a conversation with everyone, but his introverted personality did cause him a bit of trouble handling too many people at the same time, especially in a setting that he is quite unfamiliar with.

Seokjin took two glasses of champagne from the waiter that passed by and gave one to Jungkook.

-'' Here, have a glass of champagne, it might change your perception of art.''

Jungkook eyed the glass and then took it, chuckling at Seokjin. – ''So the opinion on art changes with alcohol? Is that how you manage to sell these things? Making buyers tipsy.'' – He teased, which made Seokjin's mouth twitch in good humour.

-'' Champagne certainly helps to broaden their horizons and art views.'' – He says, leaning slightly. – ''Plus, a few good praising words do loosen up the grip on their wallets.''

Jungkook grinned at that. This he understood. He has seen plenty of hustlers and people that could sell you a dirty sock, in his career. He knew that Seokjin is not a hustler, but that he has an amazing ability to sell things for high prices.

-'' Have you tried the canapes? I swear it's the most otherworldly delicious thing that ever touched your tastebuds, you must try it.'' – He said when Jungkook shook his head, and instead took a sip of the champagne. It was good.

-'' People appreciate a good art or an artist and are ready to pay for it.'' – Seokjin says after a moment, taking a sip of his drink. His ability to jump from one subject to the next with such ease was truly admired. He points slightly to the left where the man stood for the past ten minutes staring at another painting. This was more intricate, more detailed, and filled with dark colours and shadows. It was way better than three smears one, but still not the style that Jungkook appreciated. The look on that man's face was a pure admiration. Seokjin commented on that.. – '' Some people feel a strong connection to a certain art piece, like that one.'' – He nodded at the man so Jungkook's eyes followed. – '' He is a man in love. To him this painting is perfect. He doesn't see the flaws in it. He will pay a nice sum of money.'' – Seokjin concluded knowingly. – ''Very nice sum indeed.''

-'' How much does that one costs?'' – Jungkook asks.

-'' Hmmm, around 7 million won.'' – Seokjin responded calmly.

-'' What?'' – Jungkook asked incredulously. – '' Seven million won for the smudge?''

-'' It's abstract art. People pay way more for some works.''

-'' I can make this type of art as well, just smudge some paint on the canvas and call it art.'' – Jungkook huffed annoyed. He tsked with his tongue. – '' Shit, I can make it even better!''

Seokjin giggled. – ''I am most definitely certain you could, maybe you ought to try it sometimes, but I'm afraid that you have to be spectacularly famous or several decades dead to reach the billion price tag.''

-'' Are you trying to tell me that people pay billions of won for this abstract...'' – He was about to say crap, but he stopped himself on time. – '' ...thing-y.''

That made Seokjin chuckle, eyes glancing at Jungkook. – '' Oh, you would be surprised.''

He stops when one of his assistants approaches and whispers something in his ear, he nods and gives the slight wave of the hand, and the man went away to do his bidding. Seokjin turns towards the painting again and continues like there was no interruption. – '' That's the magic of the art. It can be many things. As long as it awakes the certain emotion in the art worshipers, that means it has done its purpose. How else would you explain the old masterpieces that were here for centuries and are still admired by thousands of millions of people worldwide in this day and age?''

Jungkook scratched at his neck, looking around the room. – '' Well, I see a lot of art worshipers around here.''

Seokjin followed and chuckled. – '' Oh, no, no, half of these people are here just to be seen. To do a selfie with a hashtag of ''galleryeleganzaextravaganza'' or '' breathingart'' or something like that and put it on their social media so people think that they are smarter and more interesting than they really are.''

Jungkook arches his eyebrow, not expecting this, but he liked the polished but honest way he used his words. It was true, half of these people were just for no more than a few selfies. He liked Seokjin so far. He saw through bullshit a lot of people refused to see and was quite bluntly honest about it, but was still polite about it. It was strange and amusing.

-'' They will buy the cheapest things, of course, or send money as donations. Yes, that's also done. You don't have to buy it, just donate, but I've discovered that people are much easier to separate from their money if they can have something in return. Whatever it is you can be sure it won't be because they recognize the art, or the artist, or even like it for that matter, but simply to boost their ego a bit, so they can show off their new authentic collections when people visit their houses.''

-'' I'm surprised that you sell paintings as well. I thought you are a jewellery house.'' – Jungkook was truly curious.

-'' We love art, and have our branch for the art pieces. Paintings, sculptures, antique furniture, we have that too.'

Seokjin points to the room. – '' This is a fundraiser gala. There will be a jewellery auction in some thirty minutes, but these are the side treats to pass the time. And If someone wants to buy them, they are welcome to.''

Jungkook apraze Seokjin with a respect. – '' You are one clever merchant.''

Seokjin bows.

They stopped talking for several seconds after that, before Jungkook broke the silence, pointing with his champagne glass at the three smudges on the white canvas that irked him since he got there.

-'' How much for this one?''

Seokjin's smile widened, almost mischievously. – ''That's a bigger canvas, older artist, special paint. Around 10 million won.''

Jungkook stared at him in disbelief, shaking his head. -'' That's ridiculous. I could buy awesome computer equipment, a new gaming system or a professional digital camera for that money.''

Seokjin laughed. – '' You remind me of my brother. He is a tech geek. Computers, games, gadgets... he has them all.''

Jungkook's eyes narrowed. – '' Which one?''

-'' The middle one, Namjoon.'' – Seokjin cleared the confusion. – '' There are three of us.''

Of course, Jungkook knew this from the data he read about the Kims and from Hoseok, but it's always good to ask the source.

-'' So, why don't you tell me the real reason you are here, detective Jeon. I'm sure you're not just here for the art that you clearly don't like.''

Jungkook snap his head at Seokjin who just smiled politely, eyes knowing. Jungkook opened his mouth and then closed it, eyes wide like of a doe. Seokjin chuckles.

-'' You wonder how I know?'' – Seokjin asks seeing Jungkook's surprised face. – '' I pay a lot to be informed who comes and goes to my shop. You've been scanned before you came in, and before you say that it's against regulations, I must assure you that it's not if it's approved by the government, and mine is, because of the delicacy and price of my ''goods''. '' – Seokjin says with confidence or a man who had his fair share with the people like Jungkook.

-'' What's more, 85% of these people were selected and approved by me. They got their invitation via mail or post. The rest bought their ticket, hence they were toughly checked by my security, you included.''

-'' Hah, impressive.'' – Jungkook huffs a chuckle. – '' It must be nice to have your own security house, then all comings and goings stay in the house.''

Seokjin narrows his eyes at that. – '' You can rest assured that the government conducts full research to see if everything is under regulations way too often. We never complain, and we always submit the full documentation of every work that comes and goes from this and all the other stores in our chain.'' – Seokjin answers in a moderate voice, not loud, but not too quiet either. For his ears only, as the saying goes.

-'' You still didn't answer my question. Why are you here, detective?'' – Seokjin asks again with a polite smile and calmness.

-'' I do have some questions for you.'' – Jungkook says.

-'' Then I wished you called and scheduled the meeting with me.'' – Seokjin says. – '' I would be delighted to receive you.'' – He smiles with practised ease.

Jungkook mimics it, smiling with his lips closed. – ''Well, yes, I could have, but then I would miss all this free champagne and food.'' – He says cheekily, taking a sip from his glass.

The sudden laugh escapes Jin but was quickly stifled, face returning to the practised mask of propriety.

-'' Well, since you are here, I think I can answer a few of your questions.'' – He glances at his wristwatch. – ''I have some five minutes before I have to return here. Right this way.'' – He shows for Jungkook to follow him to the very back of the store where the stairs for the upper floor were. Two out of the dozen guards hired for tonight were guarding the stairs. Seokjin nods to them and they both bow and let them pass without a word.

Seokjin's office was a spacious room, beautifully decorated in white, beige and gold colours. Seokjin points at the chair for Jungkook to use, while he went to sit at his desk. He places his forearms on the surface and interlocks his fingers together. – '' First things first, I would like to see some of your credentials, simply to make it official.'' – Seokjin asks and Jungkook shows him his credentials.

-'' Detective Jeon Jungkook from the Seoul Metropolitan Police. Very nice.'' – He checks the card and Jungkook's badge number, only by a glance. –'' Of course, this is just for the protocol's sake, if anyone asks.'' – Jin returns it to Jungkook and leans back in his chair. –'' Now, what can I help you with, detective?''

Jungkook sat straighter, placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. – '' Well, I've been wondering if you could help me with some delicate matter.'' – He begins. – '' An information really.'' – He clarifies. – '' You see, I came across this rumour surrounding your establishment and I was hoping you could clear things for me.

Jungkook says calmly. His voice and mannerism mirror the ones of Seokjin, even though in a slightly mocking way. If Kim noticed that he was too polite to say anything. Instead, the man raises one immaculate eyebrow and asks in a calm voice, with the smallest dose of curiosity. – '' A rumour?''

-'' Yes.''- Jungkook answers. – '' There has been a rumour of one very nice and very expensive diamond necklace that's been bought in your store some years ago.''

-'' How many years exactly, if you can be precise?'' – Seokjin asks in thought.

Jungkook checks his notes. – '' Two years and eight months ago.''

-'' And what was the diamond piece?'' – Seokjin asks.

-'' It's a necklace. 77-something-carat pink diamond and a bunch of small white diamonds. Here is the picture.'' – Jungkook opens his phone and shows the photograph of the necklace, feeling a bit ashamed for not listening to Yoongi's description better.

Seokjin looks carefully. – '' Ah, yes, that beauty, I remember.'' – He reached for his computer, moving the mouse to break the sleep mode and proceeds to click and open something on his program. He typed what Jungkook imagine was the necklace description or the timeframe and began scrolling. After a moment lets a small hum and reads through the data and then leans back in his chair. – '' Yes, very wonderful necklace. It features a fine 77.12-carat fancy-vivid pink diamond enhanced by a string of white diamonds. Estimated worth, over one billion won.''

-'' Mr Kim, do you often sell that expensive pieces of jewellery in your stores?''

Seokjin shakes his head. – '' No, those pieces are viewed individually in a highly secured enclosure, never in the store, but yes, in answer to your question, we do sell very expensive pieces often, but like I said, not in the store.''

Jungkook writes something down. – '' You great-grandfather started the family business, in 1905, yes?''

-'' Yes. That's correct. My grandfather took over and continued until he died.'' – Jin answers. – '' Of course, my late father had much bigger ambitions and he expanded the business as you see it today.'' – He adds.

Jungkook hums. – '' And you did a pretty good job expanding even more.''

Seokjin smiles almost shyly and waves his hand in dismissal. Jungkook knew there was no shy bone in this man's body. – '' Barely little.'' – He says.

-'' You mentioned something about a rumour if am not mistaken?'' – Seokjin prompts, but Jungkook could see the slightest of impatience seeping through his polite facade.

-'' Ah, yes.'' – Jungkook leans forward in his chair. – '' This necklace has been stolen a few months ago.''

-'' Oh, how dreadful.'' – Seokjin was genuinely sorry to hear that, or at least, that's what he wanted Jungkook to believe. –'' Did they find the culprit?''

-'' No.'' – Jungkook answers simply. – '' They didn't find the real necklace either.'' – He adds, watching Seokjin's expression carefully.

The man rounds his eyes a bit, brows arching slightly. – '' The real necklace?'' – He asks.

Jungkook nods his head. – '' Yep.'' – He leans back in his chair and crosses one leg across another. – '' Now, you see my predicament. We have in our possession a fake necklace that looks almost identical to the one that was reported missing, which you sold. And what I need is your documents of authenticity that you actually sold the real thing.'' – Jungkook says.

Seokjin's face took a rather stony expression at that. – '' Every single piece that is and had left this store is 100% original and real.'' – His voice was hard, almost icy.'' – '' I would be happy to tell my assistant to make you a copy of all documentation regarding the necklace and her authentication.''

-'' Thank you, that would be great.'' – Jungkook says.

-'' Very well, I shall do it right away.'' – Seokjin says, reaching for his pocket where a small headpiece was. He turns it on and put it in his ear. – '' Solar, please come to my office.''

He then proceed to click a few more times on his computer before standing up. - '' Detective, I'm afraid that's all the time I have for you this evening.'' – He shakes Jungkook's hand.

Just then, a beautiful petit blond entered the room. – '' Sajangnim?'' – She bows.

-'' Solar, I've sent you the number of the item from two years ago. Please, escort detective Jeon downstairs. Find the authentications papers and make copies that you will give him.'' – Seokjin slowly approaches the door as he says that. Solar bows.

He turns towards Jungkook again. -'' If you have any more questions, feel free to arrange a meeting with Solar. Also, feel free to take more champagne and canapés. Now if you excuse me, I must go.'' – He bows, ready to leave when Jungkook suddenly says.

-'' I will need the name of the buyer as well, just to connect it to the actual one.''

Seokjin smirks. – '' For that, detective, you will need a warrant. Client confidentiality, I'm sure you understand.'' – And with that, he turns and leaves.

Jungkook looks at him as he leaves, feeling annoyed. Clever man. He thought.

-'' Right this way, sir.'' – Solar points for him to follow her. They went through halls that Jungkook haven't seen before. It was nice, also white, with a nice polished floor from the nicest wood. Kim Seokjin really enjoys spending his money on quality. Jungkook thought. –'' This is our archive.'' – She stopped at the door. Across it were two chairs and a table with a glass vase and some flowers on it. – '' Please have a seat, I'll be with you in a few minutes.''

She leaves him, and true to her word, really does return only three minutes later. – '' Here are the documents. You will see that everything is in the perfect order.''- She speaks with a pleasant voice. Her face was very beautiful, and her long blond hair tied up in the elegant bun on the nape of her neck made her look gentle. The confident shine in her eyes, however, took all the attention from the soft lines of her face.

-'' How long have you been working for Mr Kim?'' – He asks.

She arches her eyebrow only slightly. – '' I'm in his employment for almost five years now.'' – She says.

-'' Have you been satisfied so far?''

She smiles at his audacity. – '' I didn't know that I was here for questioning.''

Jungkook quickly reassured her that it was not the case, but that he was simply curious.

She smiles. – '' Yes, I'm very satisfied with my employer, otherwise, I would leave. Now, is there anything else I can help you with?'' – She asks.

-'' Yes. Did you had troubles with thieves in the past year or so?'' – He asks.

Her eyes widen a bit, not expecting that question, but she shakes her head. – '' No, we didn't. This place is secured by Kim Security. You could imagine to what length Mr Kim went to make sure this place is impenetrable.'' – She says.

-'' Alright.'' – He nods. – '' How can I reach Mr Kim if I have more questions?'' – He asks.

She takes out her business card. – '' You can contact me whenever you need, and I will see when Mr Kim could receive you.''

Jungkook takes the card, thanking her.

-'' Would you like to go back to the auction?'' – She asks.

Jungkook thought it through. He can mingle a bit, see who comes and goes, feel the room, sort of speak.

-'' Yes, I want to. And thank you for this.'' – He adds, waving with papers until he packs them inside his inner suit pocket.

She bows and takes him back to the auction.

Jungkook gets himself another glass of champagne and finds another spot where he can see the room and the people in it clearly. Occasionally he would sense people's eyes grazing him as they walked by, and Jungkook didn't really pay attention much until one gaze lingered for much longer. Jungkook felt it, even if he didn't see it. Someone was watching him. He finds Seokjin in the crowd and he was looking on the opposite side. Still the feeling of being watched lingered and Jungkook swept the room with his eyes.

Quietly as a shadow he approaches him. Jungkook only had a second to react and turn to face this intruder when his eyes fell on the most beautiful man on the planet. Jungkook blinks, feeling his breath caught up in his throat and his words failing him. The man was outer-worldly, tall as him, handsome, slim, but still meaty in the right places. His face was chiselled, with elegantly defined lips and a strong cupid's bow. His skin was like honey, clean and soft, and he had a few sweet moles on his nose and under his lower lip. His curly dark hair fell over his thick brows under which the two amber eyes shined like fire. His eyes. Jungkook slightly opened his mouth. One mono-lid, another double lid. He was sure he saw these eyes somewhere before, but he just couldn't place them.

One thing he was certain of, Jungkook knew his face. He saw him many times in the magazines, looking like some idol, perfect, yet scandalous. It was the youngest brother – Kim Taehyung.

-'' Hmm...'' – The man hums, his deep velvety voice made Jungkook's insides tingle with a pleasant feeling, but there was something else. Some energetic pull that he couldn't understand. Attraction, oh certainly. Taehyung was exactly his dream type, but it was his aura that seemed so powerful yet mysterious. His brother left a similar impression when he walks into the room, his confidence and handsomeness, his cleverness and politeness demanded respect, but Taehyung had danger in him, something much darker and unpredictable. Jungkook felt the fine hair raise on his nape and arms.

-'' So, you are the detective that my brother mentioned.'' – He says. His half-lidded eyes observed him in silence at first. He tilts his head to the side as his eyes slide down Jungkook's body, sizing his shape, guessing the muscle structure underneath a badly cut suit that didn't' really fit him anymore, and then way back up to Jungkook's eyes.

Jungkook remembers to speak. He acted nonchalance even though he felt nothing but nervous. –'' Yes, and I presume you are his youngest brother.''

-'' Hmm...'' – Taehyung hums again, pouting slightly. – '' Cute.'' – He says.

Jungkook arched an eyebrow at that. – '' Excuse me?''

If that was intended to make Taehyung blush uncomfortably, Jungkook was terribly mistaken. Instead of backing off and maybe apologizing, Taehyung took a step closer, looking deep into Jugnkook's eyes. – '' I said cute.'' – He tilts his head to another side. – '' Are you always so defensive?'' – He asks.

-'' Only when someone is being too bold.'' – Jungkook answers, taking a sip of champagne.

-'' I wasn't too bold.'' – Taehyung says. – '' I was honest.''

Jungkook felt his cheeks grow hotter and he had no idea why. There was something in Taehyung's gaze that make Jungkook flustered like a teenager. He hated himself for that.

-'' You seem to be out of place in here. Are you uncomfortable?'' – Taehyung asks suddenly.

Jungkook snorts, turning his eyes away from amber ones, contacts most likely, he thoughts, and sweeps his gaze at the room again.

-'' I am not uncomfortable.'' – He lies. He hopes it's convincing, but he dares not look at Taehyung to check. – '' I'm quite enjoying here.'' – He adds, taking another sip, only to discover it was his last one.

Taehyung raises his hand and the waiter shows up with a full tray. Taehyung takes two flutes of golden bubbly liquid and offers one to Jungkook. – ''Here, have another. Dom Perignon is especially good.''

Jungkook places the empty glass on the tray and accepts the offered drink. – '' Thank you, Taehyung-ssi.''

-'' Mhm... skip the honorifics, just call me Taehyung. '' – Taehyung insisted. – ''So, why are you here, if you don't mind me asking? '' - Taehyung takes a sip. Jungkook watched his lips make an elegant contact with the glass and the way his throat bobs as he swallows it. It made him gulp as well.

-'' Business.'' – He answers.

Taehyung looks at him with a slight surprise. – '' Oh, and what would a detective want from my senior?''

-'' Just a few opinions, that's all.''

-'' And did you get it?''

Jungkook looks at him. – '' Get what?'' – He asked confused.

Taehyung's mouth twitches in the tiniest way. His expression looked as if he was smiling, while he was not, it was strange. –'' His opinions.'' – He clarifies.

Jungkook let go of the breath he was holding. – '' Yes.''

-'' Good. He is handsome, my brother, is he not?''' – Taehyung asks.

The doe's eyes widened at that. Taehyung truly just say whatever comes to his mind. – '' Yes, he is.''

-'' Do you find him attractive?''

-'' What?'' – Jungkook gasps. – '' No.'' – He splutters. – '' No.'' – He says much more firmly this time. – '' He is a handsome man, but I have no interest in Kim Seokjin.''

Taehyung hums in satisfaction. – '' Good. Because he's not into men at all.''

-'' And what makes you think I am?'' – Jungkook watches him with a narrow face.

The corner of Taehyung's mouth curves upward this time in an obvious smirk. – '' I just know.''

He takes a step closer. – '' You are cute, detective. '' – His eyes slid down again. – '' And you are handsome too.'' – His eyes snap back at Jungkook's. – '' A perfect package.''

-'' You are acting weird.'' – Jungkook says. He could easily leave, but strangely he didn't want to.

-'' I'm just being honest.'' – Taehyung says in his soulful baritone. – '' I won't mind taking you out.''

Jungkook's heart thumps faster for a few beats. – '' Who says that I want to?'' – He snorts in disbelief. Kim Taehyung, the world's heartthrob and the sexiest man in the world wouldn't really want to date Jungkook. The thought was so funny that Jungkook wanted to laugh. He probably just wants sex, that's all. Well, he ain't gonna get it.

Taehyung was looking far from discouraged. – '' You will change your mind in time.''

-'' Oh, will I?''

-'' Yes.'' – Taehyung looks in the crowd, taking a sip. – '' You just need time to get used to me, and then you'll say yes to a date.''

Jungkook chuckles, shaking his head, quite amused. – '' Keep telling yourself that.''

Taehyung's smile widens. – '' Oh, we shall see.'' – He says, empties his champagne and leaves the glass in the nearby gigantic flower plot with some exotic palm tree or something. – '' I'll keep in touch Jeon.''

Jungkook stares after him, not believing what just happened, what strange conversation he just led and... was Kim Taehyung really flirting with him... like seriously. He takes one canapé from the passing tray and pops it into his mouth. It was delicious, just like the bubbly. Just like Taehyung. Yes, this was a weird night, he thought. A weird night indeed.

_______________________________

And there you go, Jungkook finally meets Taehyung for real this time. Who else would be utterly flustered if Kim approached and flirted with you like this?We also got to meet Solar for the first time, and she is important just like the rest of her Mamamoo friends. And Yeonjun and Soobin. I swear, they are the sweetest little beans imaginable. I love their connection.I hope you enjoyed this chapter. It was fun to write it. Until Friday, take care, darlings 💜💜💜