#bts ot7

[mooncakepoptart]

gosh I love when they wear bandanas (♡⩊♡)

[marblemoonstones]

🩵 catharsis ~ chapter sixteen

main masterlist

series masterlist 

pairing: bts ot7 x reader

genre: collegestudentreader!au 

warnings: ❗️any characters in the story have nothing to do with their real life counterparts❗️f reader, reader with glasses, curse words, literally the briefest implication of jikook being steamy by themselves, smallest moment ever of Jimin whimpering but it's not crazy i promise, reader has the barest hint of a steamy thought but it goes away quickly, reader has panic attack, reader called whore, reader almost slapped but isn't, 

*lmk if i missed any*

word count: 5.7k

a/n: please read the warnings! we're at the end, and there's one more chapter left i like to call the 'confession chapter' lol. but, please heed the warnings. the panic attack isn't too explicit, but still keep yourself safe! 🩷

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

It's Friday of finals week, and I'm officially done for the semester. My finals go well, or, as well as they could, as I force myself to finish the semester strong. I flop on the couch next to Hobi, who's scrolling on his phone. The rest of the boys are busy with their respective jobs, minus Jimin and Jungkook, but those two are upstairs doing things that I don't wanna know about. 

"Finally done?" He asks, laughing as I give a weak thumbs up from my position on the couch. 

God, a whole month off. I wonder what I'll do during this big stretch of time (although I know it will go by quickly). Maybe pick up some hobbies I've neglected throughout the semester? I do have a growing list of books I want to read...or maybe I should learn some of those dance combos I've been meaning to...

"Hey Y/n, do you wanna go to the studio and just mess around?" Hobi asks, as if he's reading my mind. 

I spring up from the couch with new energy. "Yes!" 

~ 

I tap my fingers to the catchy beat playing from Hobi's car radio. He's driving, relaxed and calm as he hums quietly to the song. 

"Are there any specific combos you wanted to learn? Or did you just want to freestyle?" I ask. 

Hobi hums. "Not really. I've been meaning to learn some footwork or waacking combos, but I also might just mess around and freestyle. What about you?" 

I think for a second about my top combos I want to learn, staring as the busy streets pass. 

"I've been meaning to learn Dayoung's What's a Girl to Do combo. But I also think learning your footwork or waacking combos would be fun," I say, thinking about how I've been meaning to get better at footwork. 

"Cool! I've seen her choreo on social media but I haven't actually sat down and tried to learn it," Hobi says, turning right. "I think it would be fun. Learn it together?" 

I smile. "Okay, sounds good." 

After a bit we reach their studio, dark since the students are on winter break. We grab our bags and walk up to the green door, which Hobi unlocks and then turns on the lights in the waiting area. 

"Have you been here before?" He asks, walking past the receptionist desk and past empty studios. 

"No," I say, slowing to look at the different bright murals on the walls and spacious studios. 

Hobi slows down to match my pace, a thoughtful look on his face. "Hmm. I would've thought by now that Jimin or I would have shown you the studio, but I guess not."

It's a very welcoming place, and I can see personal touches embedded inside the building. There's a couple group photos on the wall of all the boys together, sometimes with Hobi or Jimin holding flowers after a recital. But the walls also house photos of different students smiling with Hobi or Jimin or another teacher.

We keep walking until we finally reach a studio labeled Hope World in bright orange letters. 

"This is my personal studio. The passcode is 0613, if you ever want to just come in and dance," Hobi says, punching in the numbers. The door opens with a click. 

"Oh, okay Hobi. Thanks," I say, confused as to why he gave me the code so easily but grateful nonetheless. 

"Jimin's studio is next door. His code is 1343," Hobi says, turning on the lights as I walk around. It's a nice and open space, with one wall of mirrors and the opposite wall painted bright red. The wall facing the outside is a full glass window, and I look outside to the bustling streets of Seoul. 

Comfy black couches sit against the red wall, and a fancy stereo system is set up with speakers. There's also a screen attached to the stereo system by the couches. 

"You like it?" Hobi asks, setting his bag on the floor by a couch. I do the same, setting my duffel and water bottle next to his. 

"Yeah, it's cool," I say, thinking about how the studio matches his bright personality. 

"Let's stretch then I'll queue up the video and we can learn the choreo," he says, connecting his phone to the screen before playing some upbeat music. 

We stretch, chatting about aimless and unimportant things. 

"Omg, I know, it's crazy and-" I stop, mouth open in shock as Hobi lowers himself into a right split. 

"Hey, you okay?" He asks, just casually sitting in the split. 

I shut my mouth. "Uh. Yeah. Just uh, well,"

"Wasn't expecting me to be this flexible, huh?" He asks, though his tone is teasing. 

"No!" I rush to correct myself. "It's just that, well, I thought you mostly danced hiphop, which doesn't require much leg flexibility, but uh, it's cool that you can do a split-"

"Y/n, I'm just kidding," Hobi says, shifting to a left split. "Now, show me your splits." 

I gulp, nervous before hesitantly sliding from my lunge to my right split. Hobi nods in approval and I switch to my left. 

"Well, it seems you're pretty flexible too, Y/n," Hobi says, tilting his head and watching, still in his left split mind you, as I reach forward in my left split. 

"Thanks, Hobi," I say, self conscious as I stretch. "I really try and keep up with my flexibility, and I hope that I can continue dancing even after I graduate."

"That's a good goal," Hobi says, doing a butterfly stretch now. "I know you'll be able to do it." 

We both stretch some more before attempting our final stretch: our middle splits. 

"Aish, I can't go all the way down," Hobi says, stopping with about a foot left beneath him, elbows holding him up. He looks kinda ridiculous and I laugh before going down myself. 

Luckily, I have very flexible hips and am able to go all the way down in my middle splits. I prop my head on my hands as I grin at Hobi's incredulous look. 

"Aw man, no way! You're so lucky you have good hips," he whines, pushing back to sit as I move to lay flat on my stomach in my middle splits. 

Hobi just groans dramatically, holding a hand out and closing his eyes. "No more. I get that you're the flexible one here, but I can't bear to see it!" 

I laugh before sitting up and standing. 

"How about that choreo?"

~ 

We both analyze Dayoung's dance practice video before attempting to learn some of the moves. 

"So, what's a girl to kick kick back kick, twist, hand hand," Hobi says in time with the music. We both practice the moves to his vocalizations. 

"Make sure to twist your foot here," he says, showing me. I nod, my goal of footwork in my head, 

After a while, we have the core moves down. Now it's a matter of making it look good. Hobi does that on his own, his hiphop background coming in handy as he adds groove and flow to his moves. 

I try my best, adding sharper moves and angles with the beat while trying to focus on my footwork. 

"Okay, let's try it again," I say, after I mess up and forget what comes next. 

"Sure." Hobi turns the music back and we take our positions. 

Oh, oh, Do you want me like I do? Don't know, So what's a girl to do?

We finish running through it and pause to get some water. I chug my bottle as I feel my sweat dripping down my back. I take my shirt off, now clad in my black sports bra. 

"Whew, I'm tired. But I still want to refine that one part, when we go back," I say, turning to Hobi. He's frozen, water bottle in hand. 

"Uh, Hobi, you okay?" I ask, suddenly self conscious. "Oh, is it my sports bra? Sorry, I can put my shirt back on." 

I move to grab it but Hobi frantically shakes his head. "No! I mean, it's okay. Sorry, I just kinda blanked there for a second. Don't change if you don't want to, I know you're probably hot." 

I nod slowly, and gently lay the shirt on my duffle. If Hobi's face looks a little more red, I chalk it up to being sweaty and tired from the dancing. 

Speaking of sweaty, Hobi looks damn good even while doing it. He's wearing a thin black tank top that shows off his muscular arms and a bandanna is tied around his head to keep his hair away from his face. Hot hot hot. 

I finish my drink then push my glasses up. The sweat always makes them fall down, but that's just how it is. 

"Alright," I tighten my ponytail. "Do you want to do it once more and then record it?" 

I always like to record myself dancing so I can look back and analyze it to see what could be better. Hobi does too, but his recordings are more public than mine. Whereas I keep my dance videos solely on my phone's camera roll, Hobi has an Instagram page where he showcases his dancing skills to a couple million people. Same with Jimin. 

"Yeah, sounds good." 

We take our places and run it through once more before I sigh, frustrated.

"What's up?" Hobi asks, crossing his arms to look at me. I try to ignore the sweat dripping from his handsome face down his neck and onto his muscled arms. 

"I keep messing up the first part, where we kick our feet. I sometimes feel off balance when I do it," I say, thinking about how I almost fell last time. 

"Oh, I understand. It's all about balance, y'know?" Hobi says, slowly going through the kicks. "You have to slightly bend your left leg so you have enough balance to be able to kick consectutively." He demonstrates slow. 

"Ah, I see," I say, furrowing my brow as I try to copy him. 

"Another thing is that your arms and core can also help you stay balanced. Have your arms like this," Hobi gently moves my arms to the correct position, "And it should help you have a strong foundation." I nod, not daring to breath as he's so close. 

"Make sure your core is tight too," Hobi says, lightly using one hand to gently press on my stomach. I tighten my stomach and hold my breath. He's so hot like this, focused and intense. 

He pauses, hand lingering on my stomach before tightly nodding and moving away. I let out my breath as Hobi suggests we try it again and then record. 

As we practice then film, all I can think of is that I'm fucked. 

~

We stop for lunch at a cute cafe before heading back home. 

"I need to take a shower so bad," Hobi complains, fanning himself with one hand as he drives. 

I laugh. 

"Me too," I agree, feeling a little icky even though the air conditioning is on in the car. 

Hobi pulls into the garage and we hop out and enter the house. Jimin and Jungkook are cuddling on the couch under a huge blanket, watching some anime on the TV. They turn to look at us when we enter.

"Hey! Where did you guys go?" Jungkook asks, sitting up a little against Jimin's chest. 

"To the studio for a while, we wanted to work on a combo," Hobi says, hanging his keys on his hook by the door. 

"Aw man! We could've gone too," Jimin pouts, his pink hair rumpled from the couch.

"I think that you guys were...occupied," I say, removing my shoes and smirking as they both flush. 

"Right. Well, anyways, I think Jin-hyung wants to go out to eat tonight after everyone gets home to celebrate the end of the semester for us," Jungkook says, diverting the topic. 

"Okay, sounds good. We're going to go take showers and freshen up," Hobi says, going to the stairs. I follow with a wave, and the two boys go back to watching their show. 

After a nice, hot shower I change into comfy sweats and an oversized shirt. I put moisturizer on my face and do some minimal makeup before going back downstairs, checking my phone as I go.

"Hey Y/n, wanna watch something with us?" Jimin asks and I look up from my phone and shrug. 

"Sure," I say, walking over and sitting next to him on the couch. He arranges some of the blanket over me and I put my phone on the coffee table. 

"So, what should we watch?" Jungkook asks, looking like a cute burrito on the other side of Jimin with the blanket bundled up over him with only his eyes and hair sticking out. 

"I don't care. Did you guys finish your anime from earlier?" I ask, hesitantly moving a little into Jimin's side. He responds in kind by practically melting into me. 

"Yeah," Jungkook says, sticking an arm out from under the blanket to scroll on the remote. 

"Oh, why don't we watch this?" I ask, looking as he pauses his scrolling on a k-drama titled "When Life Gives You Tangerines."

"Okay," Jungkook says, clicking play with the remote before shoving his arm back under the blanket. 

The first episode starts, and I'm immediately hooked. I don't even notice Jimin sliding down to put his head on my lap. 

I absenmindedly run my fingers through his bubblegum hair and he relaxes even more. 

"Wow, Jiminie-hyung. You look pretty cozy over there," Jungkook teases, and Jimin just lazily flips him off. 

The show progresses, and I continue to thread my fingers through Jimin's hair. I can't help but think that the position we're in is very boyfriend-girlfriend like. 

Absently, I accidentally tug on Jimin's strands. 

"Oh, sorry Jimin-" 

He whimpers. 

"Uh..." he says, face turning red as he looks up at me sheepishly. 

"Jiminie-hyung, this reminds me distinctly of earlier," Jungkook says, smirk deep on his face as he looks at Jimin. 

"Right! Um, sorry Jimin," I say, my face flushed, "And I don't need to know any more, Kook, so can it." 

Jungkook just winks at me but doesn't say any more. 

We continue to watch, and I tentatively continue to pet Jimin's hair, taking great care to not tug on the soft strands. But my thoughts can't help but wander. What would it be like to hear Jimin's noises without restraint? Oh god, he'd look so hot-

"You good, Y/n?" Jungkook asks, eyes dancing with mischief. 

Ah shit. "Yeah, I'm good," I say, forcing myself to focus back on the TV. 

We laze around the rest of the afternoon as the boys one by one come back home. It's around 5:30 when Jin finally arrives. We're all on the couches, waiting for said man. 

He takes one look at the seven of us, rolls his eyes, and says "Yah, you lazy lot. Go get ready for dinner. We leave in fifteen!" before promptly heading upstairs himself. 

The boys immediately get up off the couch and start bustling around, most heading upstairs to change. I do the same, knowing how Jin gets if we're not appropriately dressed for the nicer restaurant he's chosen. 

I touch up my makeup and tie my hair into a half up style before looking in the closet for something suitable to wear. I decide on a thick cream knit sweater with dark cherry jeans and black patent flats that I can't believe I found in a thrift store. I grab my black purse and double check that I have my phone and other essentials before heading to the door. 

I stop, noticing my dish of jewelry on the dresser. There sits Jimin and Taehyung's ring, as if asking me to wear it. So I do. 

Most of the boys are loitering by the garage door, and I notice that Jimin is the only one missing. 

"Yah! Jimin-ah! Hurry your butt up or you're driving yourself!" Jin shouts upstairs, and a muffled "Coming! I'm coming!" is heard. 

Moments later a harried Jimin comes down the stairs, his hands hastily running through his hair. 

"Took you long enough! Let's go, our reservation is soon." Jin huffs before herding everyone out the door. 

"Jimin always takes the longest to get ready," Yoongi mutters to me, making both of us smile. 

We do end up taking two cars, as it's easier than cramming outselves into one. The hyungs go in one, and I go with the maknaes in the other. 

"Good luck, Y/n. Don't die," Namjoon wishes me somberly as Jungkook drags me to the car. I send Joon a salute as I get in the front passenger seat. 

We reach the restaurant without incident and pile out of the car and meet the hyungs. 

"I am so hungry," Jungkook says for the fifth time since we started the drive. 

"We know, Kookie. Just be patient," Jimin says, rolling his eyes. Jungkook shoves him playfully, leading to a full fake fight all the way on the walk to the restaurant.

It's a cozy-looking brick building, with outdoor patio seating and twinkle lights strung around the top of the building. A hand painted white sign reads Moonshine in black paint. 

"After you," Jin says, opening the oak door for all of us. The tiny bell attached chimes as we enter, and a woman in a server outfit greets us. 

"Hello, do you have a reservation?" She asks, tablet in hand. 

"Yes, party of eight, under Kim Seokjin," Jin says, and the lady scrolls on the screen then nods. 

"Wonderful. Please follow me," she says, leading us into the restaurant. There are elegant chandeliers casting dim golden light around the room, and comfy looking black booths and vintage wooden tables that are filled with people. The cream wallpaper is dotted with subtle beige flowers and I note how it smells absolutely delicious as we're led to a big circle booth in the corner of the restaurant.

"Someone will be here to wait on you shortly," the server says before leaving us with menus and napkins with silverware. 

We all slide into the booth and I end up sitting in between Jin and Yoongi. It's not too tight of a fit, but their thighs end up pressing against mine and I'm grateful that I chose to wear pants. The order of seating is Hobi, Taehyung, Jimin, Namjoon, Yoongi, me, Jin, and Jungkook. 

"This is a nice place, hyung," Namjoon says, looking at the art on the walls. 

"It is. I'm very glad I stumbled upon it once," Jin says. 

"Hello everyone, my name is Yujin and I'll be your waitress for today," a very nice looking girl says, holding a notepad and pen in her hand. "Can I get everyone started with some drinks?

Namjoon and Yoongi order wine to split, as well as Jimin and Taehyung. 

"I'll just have some lemon water, please," Jin says. Hobi orders a Sprite and Jungkook gets a Dr. Pepper while I get a Shirley Temple. 

"Alright, and would you like to order any food now or do you still need a minute?" Yujin asks. One glance at Jungkook's wide eyes makes everyone laugh and Namjoon tell her we need a few more minutes. 

"Kook, don't get a refill or else you'll be up all night," Jimin warns, and Jungkook sighs. 

"Yes, hyung."

I look at the menu and wonder what to get. It's clear that this is an Italian restaurant, but everything looks so good. 

"Can't decide?" Yoongi asks me quietly, evidently noticing my struggle. 

"Yeah, everything looks so good," I say, eyes scanning the vast menu options. 

"Do you want to each get something and then we can each have half?" Yoongi asks, and I eagerly nod. 

Yujin returns with our drinks and by that time we're all ready to order. She takes our many orders before leaving and we turn to talking about random things, multiple conversations happening at once. 

The wine seems to make Namjoon more philosophical, and he's deep in a conversation with Yoongi. Yoongi just listens with the ends of his lips curved up slightly, endeared but not annoyed as he takes another sip of his wine. Hobi seems to be telling a funny story, and has Taehyung and Jimin enraptured as he uses his hands to describe something. I wish Hobi could see the looks of pure adoration on their faces, staring at him like he hung the sun in the sky. To my left, Jungkook and Jin bciker about something unimportant. I can tell because Jungkook's eyes twinkle mischieviously as he says another thing to make Jin sputter and promptly refute him. But Jin's voice is laced with false anger, and it would only take a glance to tell that they're not really fighting. 

I feel content as I sip on my Shirley Temple, happy to simple exist around these wonderful people. then, for some reason, my eyes start to tear up. 

Shit. There goes my sentimentality. Why do I always feel it so strongly? I ask myself in my head. I futilely try to avoid anyone noticing, and take a deep breath and look slightly up towards the gleam of the chandelier. But I should've known that these observant people would notice.

"Y/n, are you okay?" Yoongi asks, quietly, but enough for Jin to hear and stop his jabbering with Jungkook. 

"What's wrong?" He immediately asks, making Hobi stop his story and look at me worriedly. Now, the whole table is staring at me, with varying looks of concern and worry. 

"Uh," I try to keep my voice steady, "Nothing." 

They all give me the same look, and I would laugh if I wasn't so embarrassed. 

"It doesn't seem like nothing. Do you need a tissue? Is there something wrong?" Jungkook asks, holding up a mini pack of tissues. 

I could cry at the gesture. 

"No, it's fine, thank you though, Kook," I say, my brain running a mile a minute as I try to decipher how to tell them that I'm simply happy. 

Oh. Maybe it is that easy. Should I be brave? Or brush it off as something else?  

"You don't have to tell us anything," Jimin says, and the rest agree immediately, because of course they would. They're the most thoughtful, considerate, caring human beings I've ever met. And for that, they deserve to know. 

"I'm just happy," I say as tears threaten to fall. But I hold them back and blink furiously, trying my best to smile as I look at the boys. No crying now. Later, tonight, probably. But not right now. 

Everyone's faces soften and I look away. 

"Oh. We're so happy that you're happy, Y/n." Taehyung almost whispers, but I hear it just the same. 

I smile fully at them and they leave it at that. Our food arrives and I dig in, splitting a delicious lasagna and soup with Yoongi. 

At the end of the meal, Jin raises his glass of water.

"Now, before we leave, a toast! To the end of a successful year with many accomplishments, including our dear Y/n coming to stay with us," he winks at me as I hold my Shirley Temple glass up, "And, of course, for our two students for finishing their semester!" 

Jungkook and I lock eyes and he gives me a small smile, chuckling quietly as we all clink our respective glasses together before finishing our drinks. 

"Ugh, I think I had too much wine," Jimin complains, hand on his head. Jin shakes his head and clicks his tongue, but gives Jimin medicine he had in his bag. Of course. 

Yujin comes to take the bill and Jin pays, saying it's his treat for all of us and that no one better even consider trying to pay. He tips her large before looking at the drunk Jimin (and semi drunk Taehyung and Namjoon. Yoongi can hold his alcohol well enough). 

"Well, I guess it's time to get this one home to bed," Jin says, gently wrapping an arm around Jimin's shoulder. We all leave the restaurant, happy and full of good food. The cold air outside seems to help sober everyone who's drunk, and Jimin stands up a little straighter in Jin's hold. 

We're almost to the car, when I see a man approaching our group.

"Hey! Y/n, is that you?" He shouts, and his face becomes clear. 

No. It can't be. How did he find me? I thought he didn't care about me anymore. So why is he here?

I flinch, hard. My heart is pounding so loud like it's going to burst out of my chest, and the horrible, dreadful feeling creeps in, like someone doused me in ice. 

"It is! You fucking bitch," he spits out, eyes flashing, and by the way he's swaying I can tell he's drunk. 

The boys surround me, and I can feel myself shrinking into them. Two of them step in front of me and block my view of him. 

"You don't get to talk to her like that. Who are you?" I think it's Namjoon speaking, and I've never heard his voice be so hard. A warm hand grabs mine, and I hold it tightly. 

He laughs. "The fucking bitch didn't even tell you about me? Figured. She was always stupid and forgetful anyways." I tense up at the word stupid. It's been a while since I've heard that, and it only makes it harder to breathe. 

"Say another word about her and we'll make sure you regret it," an angry and gritted voice says. Yoongi.

I hear my ex shout and suddenly comes into view, Joon and Yoongi pushed aside. The next couple moments happen so fast. 

My hand is ripped out of whoever's hold, and he's holding my wrist in an iron grip. I can see his face up close, and I'm frozen, scared of what he'll do if I say something or move. 

"Ah. I see you're already whoring yourself out to another man. Or should I say men, considering how many are here," he sneers, and I look at the ground, trying but failing to control my breathing. 

"Look at me when I'm talking to-" I can't help but raise my gaze, always obedient if it means no violence, but I see a hand coming towards my face. My eyes water, already anticipating the sting of the hit when the brusing grip releases my wrist. I stumble backwards into warm arms, and they cover me so I can't see him anymore. I hear my heart beating like the banging of drums, so loud and making it hard to hear what they're saying.

"Shh, it's okay. I got you, you're safe." Murmers like these hit my ears and I feel boneless in the warm hold I'm in. 

"It's okay, honey. He's gone. You're safe. Breathe." I can tell it's Jin's arm that I fell into, and I exhale shakily. It's only then I realize I'm crying, tear tracks dried on my cheeks. 

"You're shaking, love," he says, worry on his handsome face. 

"I-I'm sorry," I manage to stutter out, which only makes him shake his head.

"Don't apologize, my sweet, sweet girl," Jin says, holding me even closer. "Don't ever apologize because of that bastard." 

I can only nod my head, overwhelmed and cold. 

"C'mon, love, let's go to the car so you can warm up," Jin says, draping his denim jacket around my shoulders before helping me stand. 

He keeps me warm on the walk to the car, and I'm aware of the other boys walking with us, talking to each other in hushed whispers. 

"Is-is everyone okay?" I ask, as Jin sits me in the back seat and buckles my seatbelt. I would normally be moritified at the gesture but I'm too exhausted to care. 

"Yes, they're fine. Now, let's get home before you catch a cold." Jin climbs in next to me and buckles his own seatbelt before producing a bottle of water. "Drink some of this." 

He opens it and I drink some before sinking into the seat, wanting to disappear. 

"Do you want your jacket back?" I ask and Jin shakes his head. 

"No, you keep it for now, sweet girl," he says. I register Yoongi and Namjoon getting in the front seats and Yoongi starts the car and pulls out. 

It's silent in the car, and I wish a hole in the ground would swallow me up. I just want to be away from anyone for a while. I pick my fingers, thoughts racing about what the boys will think of me now. I look like an idiot, not even being able to defend myself. We didn't even date for that long! Why was I so affected?.

Something delicately stops my picking, and Jin threads his hand through mine so I can no longer pick. His eyes are gently sad, and I can't look at the pity swimming in them for long. I avert my eyes and stare out the window at Yoongi drives us home. 

~

We get home and head inside where the rest of the boys are already there. 

"You go shower and wash up. We won't make you talk about anything you don't want to, so don't worry," Jin lays a gentle hand on my shoulder, "If you don't come back downstairs we understand and respect your choice. We know you're exhausted."

That's an understatement. I feel like I could fall asleep right now, and can barely manage to nod. 

"Thank you," I say quietly, avoiding everyone's eyes and pitied gazes as I head upstairs to my room. 

I carefully put Jin's jacket on a chair then grab the most comfortable clothes I can find before getting in the shower. The hot water feels great on my skin, but my arms feel so sluggish as I try to wash my body. 

I manage, then dry myself off as best I can before slipping on the baggy tee and sweats. The sweatshirt smells like Namjoon; paper with a hint of his musky cologne. I must've stolen this a while ago. 

It comforts me as I slip under the covers and turn off the light. I hesitate, lying there in the dark, before removing my glasses. Jin said they would understand if I didn't come back downstairs, and I have no reason to not believe them. Sleep comes almost instantly. 

~

Bitch. Bitch. Bitch! 

I startle awake, the word bitch ringing in my ears. Shapeless and faceless people, surrounding me and taunting me while calling me names haunts my brain. 

It's okay. Just a dream, no need to worry. 

I grab my glasses and take deep breaths, and try to calm my racing heart. Then I check the time. 2:37am reads the clock. 

I feel so sweaty, so I pull the covers back and go to the bathroom, trying to cool and calm down. I splash some cold water on my face, and it helps me to not feel so hot. But it's hard to fully relax again. 

I stand in the dark of my bedroom like a ghost, staring at my bed. I know I should get back in and try to find sleep again. But what if the nightmare comes back? 

It's at this moment a pang hits me. I know what I need. I need a warm and loving body, and someone who will make the nightmares go away. I need Jin. 

Despite myself and the thought that he's probably sleeping, my feet take my out into the dim hallway and across the floor to his bedroom. Now that I'm here, I hesitate. Would he be mad? 

No, it's Jin. I remind myself. One of the most caring and gentle people I've ever met. 

I gently knock twice on the door before waiting. I don't want to barge in there, that would be rude.

A couple moments pass and I contemplate scurrying back to my room, but before I can act on it the door opens to reveal a tired but still ethereal Jin. His hair is mussed and he is wearing the cutest pink pajama set with flowers on them. 

He hums. "Y/n?" He asks, eyes snapping open as he realizes who is outside his door. "Are you okay? What's wrong?" 

I stare at a flower on his chest. "Um, I had a nightmare," I blurt, internally cringing at how childish that sounds. But Jin only tsks his tongue.

"I'm so sorry to hear that, love. Do you want to come be with Yoongi and I?" He asks, stepping aside so I can see his big bed, where Yoongi is tucked under the covers. 

"Oh! I didn't realize-" I start, but Jin just gestures me inside. 

"It's okay love. We're only sleeping. After all, we're not the maknaes," he says with a knowing smile on his face. I blush, but step inside his room, Jin closing the door behind me. It's different in the dark than in the light, but I can still make out the bookshelf with figurines and cookbooks, as well as his gaming system in the corner. 

"Come, love. In you go." Jin pulls the covers back and I get in, handing him my glasses, next to Yoongi, who's on my left. I just now realize that he's awake. 

"Everything okay?" He asks me, voice gravelly with sleep. His eyes are barely open but I can tell he's listening.

I nod, then open my mouth to apologize for waking him up but he shuts his eyes. "That's good. Now, let's sleep." 

Jin chuckles as he slides in on my right and pulls the covers up. "You heard the man. Try to relax. We'll be right here."

Those words comfort me, and I try to follow his instructions, turning over to face Jin. I can feel both Yoongi and Jin's warmth from either side, close but not enough to touch. Respectful, even in bed. 

I close my eyes and try to fall asleep. Just as I'm about to drift off, I feel Yoongi's arms snake around my waist, holding them so delicately, and my back press against his chest. I also feel Jin's legs entwined with mine. 

Being cuddled by both of them makes me feel so safe. And loved. With that in mind, I finally drift off. 

a/n: soo close to the end! this story has really helped me improve my writing, and for that i'm grateful. i have few more wips and also am going to try to continue (key word: try lol) the taylor swift x bts oneshots, but we'll see how much i actually get done lol. thanks for reading! 🩵🩵

[dianap347]

☼ KAIROS ☽ Chapter 4: The After Party

“The American Music Award goes to...

BTS!”

The arena exploded.

For a moment, Namjoon wasn't sure he had heard correctly.

Then Jungkook grabbed his shoulder.

Hoseok was laughing.

And suddenly they were all standing.

The stage seemed impossibly far away.

Or maybe his thoughts were.

Thousands of people were screaming.

Yet all Namjoon could hear was the sound of his own heartbeat.

Amid the cheers and applause, he found himself speechless.

The microphone felt heavier than it should.

The members stepped aside without discussing it.

They always did.

He adjusted his grip on the microphone.

“I seriously forgot what I was going to say,” he admitted, earning a wave of laughter from the crowd.

Still, none of the members hesitated.

They trusted him.

“Thank you, AMAs. We're truly honored to be on this stage with such amazing, tremendous artists right over here. We're so honored. Thank you for this.”

Another round of cheers followed.

The words came slowly at first.

Then a little easier.

“I’m nervous,” he admitted.

The audience laughed again.

Somehow, that helped.

As he thanked the people who had made the night possible, the speech finally found its rhythm.

He was back on track.

Award shows had always fascinated him.

They were strange places.

Events that began one way and ended another.

People carefully crafted versions of themselves under flashing lights, only for reality to reveal something entirely different once the cameras were gone.

Namjoon knew that the moment BTS was announced as the winner, invitations to after-parties would start arriving.

They always did.

Success attracted people.

Attention attracted even more.

He was grateful for both.

But neither had ever been the reason they started.

“Eyes on the moon. Feet on the ground.”

Yoongi said that once.

Namjoon thought about it often.

After greeting other celebrities, taking pictures, and thanking the staff, they moved on to the press interviews.

By now, they knew the routine by heart.

Question after question.

Camera after camera.

Smile after smile.

Namjoon didn't mind it.

At least, not entirely.

What he enjoyed most were the rare moments when a conversation became something more than promotion.

A different perspective.

A different experience.

A different way of looking at the world.

The ones that reminded him how much there still was to learn.

And Namjoon had always loved learning.

Two hours later, they were sitting in a private dining room reserved by the company.

The screaming crowds had been replaced by grilled meat, tired smiles, and managers finally allowing themselves to relax.

Yoongi nursed a glass of whisky, engaged in a conversation that had somehow drifted from music to basketball.

Across the room, Jungkook had already convinced Jimin and Taehyung to get up from their seats. Whether they were dancing or simply making fools of themselves was open to interpretation.

Jin and Hoseok were documenting the entire evening.

Every few minutes, another photo was taken.

Another pose.

Another argument about who had captured the better angle.

Namjoon watched it all unfold from his chair.

He looked at some of the managers, flirting with some waitresses, showing off the band’s success as their own. 

Yoongi eventually dropped into the empty chair beside him.

For a while, they simply watched the others.

The celebration.

The noise.

"You remember our first showcase?" Yoongi asked.

Namjoon laughed.

Yoongi took a sip of whisky.

"We were terrified."

"We still are."

For a moment, neither spoke.

Then Yoongi nodded toward the rest of the table.

"You should say something."

Namjoon frowned.

"I already gave a speech."

"Not that one."

Yoongi glanced at the members.

"This one."

Nam followed his gaze.

The people who had been there before the awards, before the stadiums, before America.

"Do it now," Yoongi added.

"Why now?"

"Because in an hour nobody will be listening."

Namjoon stood up, lifting his glass.

The room gradually quieted.

Not because he demanded attention.

But because after all these years, the members still looked at him whenever he stood.

"I'll keep this short."

Immediately, several people laughed.

Nam looked around the room.

"Tonight was incredible."

He paused.

"But the truth is, I don't think the awards are what I'll remember most."

The room became quieter.

"I think I'll remember this."

He gestured toward the table.

The food.

The conversations.

The people.

"Back then, when we were trainees, success looked very different."

A few knowing smiles appeared.

"I thought it would feel like arriving somewhere."

He shook his head.

"But every time we reach a goal, another one appears."

He paused.

"And I realized something."

His grip tightened slightly around the glass.

"The awards are important."

"The records are important."

"The dreams are important."

His voice softened.

"But none of them matter more than the people I got to share them with."

Silence.

The kind that only appears when everyone is trying not to feel too much.

Nam swallowed.

"I don't know what the future looks like."

"Maybe that's why tonight feels so special."

His eyes burned unexpectedly.

"Because for once..."

A small laugh escaped him.

"...I don't want to think about what's next."

Several members were already looking away.

Pretending not to be emotional.

Failing.

"I just want to stay here for a little longer."

He raised his glass.

"Thank you for choosing this journey."

His voice almost broke.

"Thank you for choosing each other."

Nobody spoke.

For a moment, the only sound came from the city outside.

Then glasses slowly rose around the table.

No one rushed to talk.

No one made a joke.

Some moments deserved to remain exactly as they were.

The celebration continued long after that.

More food arrived.

More drinks followed.

Conversations split into smaller groups.

Stories were told and retold.

Nobody seemed to mind.

Outside, the city kept moving.

Inside, time felt suspended.

By the time Namjoon glanced at his watch again, the sky beyond the restaurant windows had begun to lighten.

Dawn.

Somehow, they had celebrated through the entire night.

The managers were the first to disappear.

One by one, they offered congratulations, exchanged handshakes, and called it a night.

Some left alone.

Others left accompanied by waitresses who had spent the evening laughing at their stories.

Nobody commented on it.

They were all adults.

Besides, after a night like this, nobody felt particularly interested in judging anyone.

Eventually, only seven remained.

They piled into a company van shortly after.

Jungkook was already half asleep.

Jimin had his head resting against the window.

Yoongi looked seconds away from passing out.

Even Hoseok had finally run out of energy.

The city moved quietly outside as the driver started toward the hotel.

Then:

"Hyung."

Nam glanced into the rearview mirror.

Taehyung sat up.

His hair was a mess.

His eyes were slightly unfocused.

Which usually meant he was about to say something either brilliant or completely insane.

"Can we go to the beach?"

Silence.

The driver blinked, looking at Nam.

"The beach?"

"Yeah."

Taehyung pointed toward the brightening horizon.

"The sun's coming up."

Another pause.

"Right now?"

"Right now."

Namjoon expected at least one complaint.

Nobody offered one.

Jungkook was the first to nod.

"Sounds good."

"Let's do it," Jimin agreed.

Yoongi sighed.

"We're all idiots."

But he didn't say no.

Five minutes later, the van was heading toward the ocean instead of the hotel.

The road began to smell different before they even saw the ocean. Salt in the air. Wind pressing in through the slightly cracked window. A softness that didn’t exist in the city.

Then, finally, the coastline opened up.

The driver slowed as the road curved alongside the beach. No crowds. No cameras. Just empty sand stretching into a pale, waking sea.

“Here?” the driver asked quietly.

Namjoon looked at the others.

At the sleeping heads. The tangled limbs. The exhaustion that looked almost like peace.

“Here,” he said.

The van stopped.

For a moment, nobody moved.

Then Taehyung opened his door first, like he’d been waiting his entire life for that exact second.

Cold air rushed in.

One by one, they stepped out.

The sand was still cool beneath their shoes, untouched by the heat of the day that hadn’t arrived yet. The ocean rolled in slow, patient waves, as if it had all the time in the world.

Jungkook stretched, blinking hard.

“Why does this feel like we’re in trouble?” he murmured.

“We are,” Jin said, stepping out last. “Just not the legal kind.”

That got a tired laugh from Jimin.

Taehyung was already walking toward the water, sleeves rolled up like he intended to negotiate with the sea itself.

Namjoon stayed a step behind the others.

The sky was changing now. Not fully day yet, not still night. 

No paparazzi in sight. No people in sight.

Just seven silhouettes against the edge of the world.

And it felt simple, in a way nothing else ever did.

Jin called out from the shoreline, already kneeling to touch the water.

“It’s freezing!”

Still, he walked forward anyway.

One by one, they followed.

Until the ocean reached their feet.

Until laughter replaced silence.

Until the night that had lasted too long finally softened into morning.

There, with the ocean and the sky as witnesses, they lost track of time. 

The ride back to the hotel was a quiet one. 

Nam looked over his shoulder from the passenger seat. The image was touching indeed. 

Wet seats full of sand. 

Jimin and Tae curled in a hug. Yoongi and Hoseok sleeping with their mouths open. Jungkook resting his head on Jin’s shoulder. 

Nam exchanged glances with Jin, the last ones standing. 

“Thank you for choosing us,” said Jin before falling asleep, too. 

Nam said to himself that day was going to be in his memory for the rest of his life. 

It was the sound of a crowd that woke them up. 

Fans banging on the van. 

Voices screaming their names. 

Crying. 

Taking pictures. 

Recording. 

They entered the hotel building as quickly as they could. 

When Nam entered his suite, he found the main room a mess. 

Food leftovers. 

Spilled drinks.

Underwear. 

He rolled his eyes.  

A paper bag called his attention. “Zoomer Delivery” was written on a sticker, although torn, he could read it.

His head flew across his memories and he remembered where he had seen that logo before. That night, in that delivery girl’s uniform. The girl who was eating in the elevator.

There was only one person from the staff who’d call that company. Daniel Park.

His eyes drifted toward the bedroom door.

Then, before he fully registered the decision, he moved.

He didn’t knock.

The door opened with a quiet push.

Inside, the suite was dimmer than the main room. Messier. Lived-in in a way that made his jaw tighten instinctively.

There were voices. Laughter. Movement.

A group of women scattered across the room—some on the bed, some on the sofa, some half-dressed in the careless comfort of people who had stopped paying attention to time.

Daniel was somewhere deeper inside, partially visible between them, absorbed in the chaos.

Nam’s eyes moved quickly.

Scanning.

Not looking for anyone in particular.

At least, that’s what he told himself.

One by one.

Faces he didn’t recognize.

Laughter that didn’t concern him.

Hair, silhouettes, perfume, fabric, voices overlapping.

Nothing.

No trace of her.

The girl from the elevator wasn’t there.

A small, almost imperceptible breath left him—something between relief and something he didn’t want to name.

He didn’t realize he had been holding tension in his shoulders until it was released.

He took a step back.

No one had noticed him properly. Or if they had, they didn’t react enough to care.

Good.

Nam closed the door again.

Carefully.

Silently.

For a moment he stood in the hallway, expression unreadable.

Then he exhaled once, straightened his posture, and walked away from the suite.

Not toward the elevator.

Not toward the rooftop.

Just away.

[writtenbyjm]

260707 — BTS World Tour ‘Arirang’ | London D-2

[writtenbyjm]

260710 — JHOPE ft JIMIN via Instagram (3)

[sassynora]

HEY BTS ARMY

I'm selling 2x Soundcheck VIP Tickets for BTS ARIRANG IN BALTIMORE on August 11 - I'm asking face value or less!!

• I can provide current proof of tickets on ticketmaster!!

Also available - Section 125, Front Row & 2x Soundcheck vip Tickets for day 1 on August 10

We were able to get better tickets as a group for another stop!!

Please DM if you are interested in any!!

[gracieinclouds]

Hi BTS Army💜 I’m selling my Soundcheck VIP BTS tickets for BTS world Tour Arirang in Arlington, Texas on August 15 (day 1) (Saturday) 

we also have 2x tickets in section C110

Send me a dm if you are interested!!

[moonlightarianne2]

WTS // BTS ARIRANG IN EAST RUTHERFORD AT METLIFE STADIUM ✨

We were able to get VIP Tickets, so we are selling our original seats! 💜

Event: BTS World Tour 'Arirang' in  East Rutherford 

Date: August 1, 2026

Venue: MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)

Tickets: 2 (Two) Lower Bowl Tickets

Perks: FRONT ROW SEATS! 

DM with serious offers! Let's get these to a fellow ARMY! 🫶