Bound by Fate, Chosen by Love I Part 1
Jungkook x Reader I Werwolf x Witch I Fated Mates I Slow Burn I Strangers to Lovers I Supernatural Romance I Protective Jungkook
Summary : A witch bound by duty. A werewolf bound by instinct. When fate intertwines their paths, they must decide if love is worth defying expectations. Hunters threaten their people, forcing them to fight side by side. As tensions rise, so does the pull between them—soft moments turning into something far more intense. A quiet invitation, a lingering touch, a whispered question that changes everything. In the end, choice matters more than destiny. But with danger still lurking, will they have the chance to choose each other?
Word Count: 42K
Masterlist
A/N: Well, I wanted to post this as one, but Tumblr won’t let me… so I’ll be posting Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 back to back. Sorry about that! Hope you still enjoy it!
Part 2 / Part 3 / Epilog
The scent of blood clung thick in the air, mingling with the dying embers of the village’s fires. Jungkook stood at the center of the devastation, his hands clenched into tight fists, nails still lengthened into claws from the fight. Sweat and blood coated his skin—some his own, but not all of it. Far from it. His chest heaved as he struggled to steady his breath.
Around him, his pack moved swiftly—gathering the wounded, checking the fallen. They had fought hard, but the ambush had been unexpected. Hunters had found them.
Namjoon lay motionless on the ground, his usually strong and commanding presence dimmed by the severity of his wounds. Seokjin knelt beside him, pressing firm hands against a deep gash along Namjoon’s side, his face tight with worry.
“We can’t treat this here,” Seokjin said, his voice rough with strain. “The wound is poisoned, cursed, I don’t know. Normal healing won’t work.”
Fear clung to his words. If their Alpha, their leader, there friend died… there would be others to take Namjoon’s place—Jungkook and Seokjin among them. But so soon after such a devastating attack, a power struggle would only weaken the pack further.
Jungkook cursed under his breath. He knew what had to be done.
“The witches,” he said, the words tasting forbidden on his tongue.
Seokjin’s eyes snapped up to meet his. “You know it’s forbidden to cross the valley,” he murmured, voice low, as if even speaking of it would summon trouble.
“I don’t care,” Jungkook growled. “If there’s even a chance they can help, I’ll take it.”
The werewolves had always been wary of the witches who lived beyond the valley, deep within the hidden grove. Myths claimed they were descendants of the devil, that they meddled in dark magic. But Jungkook had never put much stock in those stories. The truth was, their kinds hadn’t mixed for centuries. Not enemies, not allies—just strangers who respected the unspoken boundary between them.
But he would break that boundary tonight.
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The night was heavy with mist as Jungkook approached the village hidden within the thick embrace of the forest. The air hummed with a power he had never felt before—subtle but undeniable. The trees seemed taller, the shadows deeper, longer, as if the very land itself was old but alive. He shifted back into his human form as he neared the entrance, not wanting to provoke a reaction by approaching as a wolf.
Jungkook barely made it past the first set of dwellings before three hooded figures emerged from the darkness, surrounding him. Their movements were precise, silent, and before he could decide whether to fight or speak, one of them grabbed his arm.
“You will come with us.”
Jungkook didn’t resist. He went willingly—fighting would do nothing but worsen his chances. He was here to plead, not to battle. His people had suffered enough.
The witches led him through winding stone paths, deeper into the heart of their village. Eventually, they reached what looked like a grand council hall, its high ceilings glowing with floating candles, its walls lined with ancient symbols that pulsed faintly with power—none of which Jungkook had ever seen before.
At the center of the room sat an elderly woman, her hair white as snow, neatly pinned in a bun. Her wrinkled eyes held a sharpness that spoke of wisdom and experience. She wore a simple black dress, a dark brown knitted shawl draped over her shoulders, her presence both commanding and eerily calm. She spoke in hushed tones with someone seated beside her—someone who caught Jungkook’s attention for only a second before he was shoved forward, forced to his knees before the elder.
The old woman studied him with knowing eyes.
“A werewolf in our village is an unusual sight,” she said. “Why have you come?”
Jungkook took a deep breath, his voice steady but urgent.
"My pack was attacked by hunters. Our leader, Namjoon, is dying. The wound – we have no way to heal him, but your coven might. Please—I am asking for your help."
Hushed whispers filled the hall. The mere mention of hunters sent a ripple of unease through the gathered witches. A long silence stretched between them before the old woman finally sighed, shaking her head.
"I am sorry for your inevitable loss," she said, her tone laced with genuine sympathy. "But we will not spare a healer. Not when the risk is so high."
Jungkook’s jaw clenched, his fists curling at his sides. Fury burned hot in his chest. "You would let someone die when you could save him?" he snapped. "What kind of magic do you practice if it lets you turn your back on those in need?"
Jungkook’s jaw clenched, his fists curling at his sides. Fury burned hot in his chest.
Before anyone could say more, you spoke.
“I will go.”
The room erupted.
“You cannot!”
A man standing near you—clearly a guardian of some kind, given the leather tunic and sword at his hip—stepped forward in protest. His dark eyes flashed with barely contained anger. “You are to be the next coven leader! You can’t risk yourself like this.”
His voice, though laced with frustration, carried a melodic smoothness that could captivate anyone who listened. If Jungkook hadn’t had heightened hearing, he might have missed it.
The old woman beside you—your grandmother, Jungkook realized—looked equally outraged.
“We will not allow it,” she said firmly.
But you didn’t waver.
“This is not up for debate, Jimin, Grandma,” you said, voice unwavering. “If we don’t value life, then why teach me compassion in the first place?”
Your grandmother exhaled through her nose, clearly displeased but knowing she could not sway you. Jimin, however, wasn’t done fighting. He stepped even closer to you, his presence protective, his stance firm. Jungkook clenched his jaw, a sharp irritation flaring within him. It was unreasonable—he knew that—but the way your guard hovered so close to you made something in him bristle.
"Then I’ll come with you," Jimin insisted, his voice tight. "I will not let you go unprotected."
"The journey will take three long days on foot," your grandmother agreed. "Through dangerous terrain, and the risk of hunters seems high. If you leave at sunrise, you may have a better chance of avoiding them. I will ward you with protection.”
Jungkook forced his focus back to the conversation, though the irritation lingered beneath his skin. "We won’t be going on foot," he said. "In my wolf form, I can carry you. We’ll be way faster that way. My people… many were already at the brink of dead when I left for help."
Jimin’s expression darkened snapping at Jungkook at the suggestion, his lips pressing into a thin line. Jungkook could practically feel the waves of protest rolling off him. The idea of you leaving with a werewolf clearly did not sit well with him, and for some reason, that only aggravated Jungkook further.
You, however, had already made up your mind.
"Then we leave in an hour," you said, ignoring the tension between the two men. "I need time to gather what I might need—medicines, supplies, charms for protection." Your eyes flickered to Jungkook. "You should use that time to rest. You look like you need it."
Jungkook exhaled slowly, nodding. He wouldn’t argue. His body still ached from the battle, and if they were to travel fast, he would need his full strength.
Jimin wasn’t ready to back down. He stepped closer, voice edged with disbelief.
“This is reckless,” he argued. “You—of all people—leaving with a stranger? A werewolf? In the middle of the night?” His tone was sharp, laced with concern and anger. "Do you even hear yourself?"
Jungkook was on his feet in an instant. The sheer ridiculousness of the situation struck him—did they really think he would harm you? He had come here, humbled himself before your people, and still, your guard stood as if he were some mindless beast ready to strike. His irritation flared, but he pushed it down, focusing instead on what truly mattered.
Jimin moved swiftly, placing himself between you and Jungkook, his hand gripping the hilt of his sword. The air in the chamber grew thick with tension, the silent challenge crackling like fire between them.
Jungkook squared his shoulders, meeting Jimin’s stare head-on. His voice was no longer just steady—it was unshakable.
“I swear on my life and the honor of my pack,” he declared, his gaze locking onto yours. “As long as you are with me to help my people, I will lay down my life before yours. No harm will come to you—not while I still breathe.”
The words rang through the hall like iron striking stone, unwavering and absolute. Jimin’s fingers twitched against his sword, his instincts screaming at him to remain wary. But before the tension could spiral further, your hand came to rest on Jimin’s shoulder.
It was a small gesture, yet Jungkook watched with silent irritation as the effect was immediate. Jimin stiffened, then exhaled sharply, lowering his hand from his weapon.
Jungkook pushed his tongue into his cheek, fighting the unreasonable annoyance curling in his chest. Why did it take you to calm him? Why did the sight of your hand on someone else—your trust in someone else—bother him? He shoved the thought aside, focusing instead on you.
You turned your gaze to him, your voice steady and sure. "I believe in the wolf standing before me."
The words settled deep inside him, quieting some of the storm in his mind.
"What is your name?" you asked. Voice gentle.
For a moment, Jungkook just looked at you. Then, finally, he answered. "Jungkook."
A small nod. "I am Y/N."
Your guardian pressed his lips together but said nothing more, stepping back begrudgingly. Jungkook ignored the strange sense of satisfaction that settled in his chest at that.
He would rest. And then he would take you with him—away from here, away from the witch who stood too close, and back to his people where he knew, without a doubt, that you were meant to be.
You watched as Jungkook was led to a quiet, secluded resting area, tucked just behind the stone walls of the ancient temple where he could rest and refresh. His figure was striking even in the fading light. His broad shoulders were slightly hunched, a subtle sign of the exhaustion that weighed on him, but there was an undeniable strength to his presence that couldn't be overlooked. Beneath the dark fabric of his tunic, his muscles shifted with each movement—taut, coiled, ready.
When his right arm flexed, the intricate tattoos etched into his skin caught your eye. Black lines, sharp and deliberate, curled around his bicep and stretched down his forearm, their design a seamless blend of power and artistry. They weren’t merely decorations; they were a story—one inked into his very flesh, speaking of battles fought, victories earned, and oaths sworn. There was a rawness to them, a quiet energy humming beneath each mark, as if the wildness within him had been woven into his very skin. You found yourself wondering about their meaning, about the stories they told. About what it might be like to hear him speak of them in that low, gravelly voice.
His steps were steady, though they carried a weariness, as if every movement he made was deliberate, measured. His raven-black hair, damp with the sweat of the day’s battles, fell slightly over his forehead in messy strands, and you couldn’t help but be drawn to the sharpness of his jawline, defined and strong, yet softened by the tension that gripped him. His eyes, dark and intense, seemed to absorb everything around him, calculating each moment, each movement. They flicked over his surroundings with a restless energy that mirrored the storm raging within him. But despite the tension in his posture and the storm brewing in his eyes, there was something almost magnetic about him—something that made your chest tighten with a deep, instinctive need to help.
You couldn’t help but follow his movements with your gaze, a knot in your chest that you couldn’t quite explain.
You forced yourself to turn away, breaking the hold he had on your thoughts. There was no time for hesitation. Swiftly, you gathered what was necessary for the journey—water, herbs, bandages, protective spells small enough to carry. A few potions to ward off fatigue, perhaps, and to keep danger at bay. A change of fresh clothes. Your mind was already calculating what else you might need, but you didn't want to over-pack and burden Jungkook with the extra weight. You needed to travel light, to move swiftly.
As your hands worked with practiced efficiency, your mind wandered back to the way his gaze had lingered on you earlier, to the quiet intensity of it. And to the strange sense of steadiness you found in his presence.
A glance at the hour told you it was nearly time.
You changed into something more suited for travel—comfortable, form-fitting clothing, easily allowing for movement. No time to waste now. You gathered the small satchel and backpack with your essentials and moved toward the door.
When you found Jimin outside, he was pacing, his brows furrowed in agitation. As you approached, he stopped and eyed you critically. His concern for you was as obvious as his mistrust of Jungkook.
“Are you sure about this?” Jimin’s voice was low, his tone edged with uncertainty. “You can’t just trust a wolf pack, no matter what promises they make. They’re dangerous. This—this whole situation—it’s too risky. I don’t like it.”
You met his gaze head-on. “Jimin, I trust Jungkook. I don’t know why but I do. He promised to keep me safe, and I believe him.” You paused, watching the flash of skepticism in his eyes. “I won’t be alone. I’ll have him with me.”
Jimin’s jaw tightened as he shook his head. “How can you? We don’t know him! And I’m still coming with you. No matter what you say, I don’t trust any of this. Not the wolves. Not the way you’ve been acting... I’m not leaving you to deal with that on your own.”
You didn’t argue further. Jimin was stubborn, and you knew he would follow you regardless. But you could see the worry in his eyes—he was protective, and though you appreciated it, you had already made up your mind. With a final glance at him, you turned and strode toward the temple’s back entrance.
“Just tack us,” you said firmly. “We need to move quickly.”
Jungkook was already waiting in the clearing, the silver moonlight carving his silhouette from the shadows. He stood taller now, more at ease, though his eyes still carried the weight of unspoken thoughts.
As you approached, his sharp gaze flicked to you, and for a moment, it was as though time itself slowed.
“You’re ready?” he asked, his voice low, a soft growl underlining the words as he stood tall. His wolf was closer to the surface now, the tension of his form palpable.
“I’m ready,” you answered, nodding. There was no more hesitation, no more doubt. The air between you seemed to hum with an energy you couldn’t name.
You nodded. The space between you seemed to hum with something unspoken.
Jungkook exhaled, rolling his shoulders. "Climb on after I shift. Sit between my shoulders—that will be the most stable. Hold on tight. I won’t drop you."
You nodded, preparing yourself to ride with him, Jimin stepped forward with a sharp glance at Jungkook. “I’m coming with you, too,” Jimin said firmly. “I’ll follow behind you—don’t think I’m just going to let you take her off with you, no matter what promises you’ve made.”
Jungkook’s gaze flicked briefly to Jimin, a flicker of irritation crossing his features. But there was no argument. He simply nodded, understanding the need for caution your people held, though it was clear he wasn’t thrilled about having Jimin follow.
Without saying another word, Jungkook began to shift. His muscles rippled beneath his skin as the transformation started. The air around you grew tense, and a low, resonating growl rumbled deep from his chest, even as his body expanded and contorted in ways that felt unnatural. You stepped back instinctively, your heart pounding in your chest as you watched him.
And then he was there—a massive wolf, his midnight-black coat gleaming under the moonlight. His sheer size stole your breath, a creature built for speed and strength, every movement fluid and deadly. His eyes, glowing with an ethereal green, a piercing intensity that seemed to look straight through you.
Jungkook’s form was stunning. His wolf was a creature of power and grace, exuding an aura of raw, unbridled energy. There was an elegant savagery to him, and yet, in his eyes, there was still something familiar, something that made your heart skip in your chest.
Jungkook’s gaze met yours, steady and unwavering. Slowly, he lowered himself, his body still, waiting. The weight of his presence was overwhelming, and you could feel it in your bones. Jungkook’s eyes softened as he studied you for a moment longer before his body tensed again. He let out a soft huff, almost as if in a silent communication.
You stepped forward, your heart racing as you placed your hand gently on his back. His fur was impossibly soft, but beneath it, you felt the solid strength of muscle. For a brief moment, a thought flitted through your mind—what would it feel like to touch him like this in a moment not marked by war and urgency?
You swallowed, pushing the thought away, and climbed onto his back. With a deep breath, you swung one leg over, your body steadying as you positioned yourself on his back. Jungkook’s massive form shudder and shifted slightly, adjusting for you. The moment you were fully settled, he rose slowly to his feet, making sure not to jostle you. His patience was unexpected, his careful movements at odds with his sheer size and power. His wolf was patient and aware, moving with a grace that belied his size. You could feel the steady beat of his heart beneath you.
Jungkook took a cautious step, testing your comfort level. You relaxed slightly into his back, gripping his fur more securely, and with that, he picked up his pace, moving forward with a slow, powerful jog. You felt his muscles ripple with each stride, his movements precise and fluid, the ground beneath you blurring as he gained speed.
The hours stretched on, the landscape shifting from dense forest to open plains. The journey ahead was marked by quiet but steady progress. As Jungkook's powerful form cut through the forest, the world around you seemed to blur with speed. The trees and the shadows that once felt imposing now seemed like mere silhouettes, passing by in the blink of an eye. His powerful legs pushed him forward with a grace that made the air hum around you. The moonlight filtered through the canopy above, casting pale beams that illuminated the path, guiding him as naturally as if the forest itself had parted to make way.
You settled into the rhythm of the journey, allowing yourself to simply experience the moment. The first part of the trip was uneventful, save for the occasional snap of a twig beneath his paws or the distant hoot of an owl. It was almost peaceful, the kind of serenity that seemed almost too perfect to last.
Jimin had fallen back, fast. As the hours passed and the night wore on, you couldn’t help but notice how steady Jungkook's movements were. Despite the urgency of his mission, there was something almost meditative about his pace. It wasn’t rushed, but rather deliberate, as though every step was carefully planned to ensure both of your safety. His breathing was steady, his heart beating in sync with the rhythm of his movements.
The landscape around you began to change slowly. The dense forest gave way to more open terrain, where the trees were spaced farther apart and the underbrush gave way to dry grass and wildflowers that swayed gently in the wind. The journey had already taken hours, but the night was still young. The stars above sparkled brightly, as if even the heavens had conspired to light the path ahead.
The pace never wavered. Despite the exhaustion weighing on both of you, the steady rhythm of Jungkook’s run, coupled with the cool night air, kept you energized. Occasionally you spoke softly to him, asking if he was alright, but each time, he simply grunted in response. A little later, Jungkook began to slow his pace. You didn’t protest. Your muscles ached, and your eyes were heavy, though your mind remained alert.
His muscles rippled beneath his fur as he lowered himself into a seated position, gently lowering you to the ground. You slid off his back, feeling the familiar earth beneath your feet. The forest around you was peaceful, almost too still, and you felt a brief, unsettling silence settle in.
Jungkook shifted back to his human form almost immediately, his movements smooth and deliberate. He let out a sigh, his shoulders slumping for just a moment before he straightened, his eyes scanning the surroundings.
"We should rest," he said, voice rough. "You’ll fall off if we go any further."
"I can keep going," you protested, but even you weren’t convinced. Your body ached from the unfamiliar ride, your legs screaming in protest.
He gently shook his head." I need a break as well. I’ll take the first watch."
You nodded. You settled down beside him, trying to ignore the gnawing exhaustion creeping into your bones. As Jungkook moved into a watchful stance, his eyes scanning the surroundings, you finally allowed yourself to lean back, staring up at the sky.
In the stillness of the night, with the sound of Jungkook’s steady breathing beside you and the distant rustling of the wind in the trees, you finally allowed yourself to close your eyes.
Jungkook sat against the trunk of a tree, his sharp eyes flicking between the darkness of the forest and your sleeping form. His ears, still heightened even in his human state, picked up the soft rhythm of your breathing, the way it had finally evened out now that exhaustion had won over your wary mind.
You slept, oblivious to the war raging inside him.
A witch. His mate was a damned witch.
The bond was undeniable. The second you’d touched him, he had known. But did you? Or were you oblivious, unaware of the pull tethering you to him?
His fingers twitched, resisting the instinct to reach out. The need to touch you was maddening, but what would it change?
You shifted slightly in your sleep, the soft rise and fall of your chest impossibly steady, as if you weren’t lying beside a wolf who was questioning everything he knew about fate.
Jungkook exhaled sharply, dragging a hand through his hair. There was no escaping this, no denying what had been set in motion. His jaw tightened as he tried to reason with it—as if rationalizing it over and over would make it more bearable. It didn’t.
He had heard of mates bonding outside their own kind. Shifters mated to humans, vampires, and even once, an old elder claimed a siren had been bonded to a wolf long ago. But never a witch. Not in any history he knew. And it had to be him.
Not only that, but you weren’t just any witch. You were someone important, someone powerful. You had defied your own coven, risked a lot to help his pack, and now, whether you knew it or not, you were his.
What did that mean? For him? For you?
Would you accept it, or were you like some humans, oblivious to the bond, requiring time—or worse, never recognizing it at all?
His fingers curled into the dirt, suppressing the urge to reach for you, to brush his skin against yours and feel the bond’s pulse again, just to be sure. But what was the point? The fact remained: you were a witch, and he was a wolf. And right now, you were his only hope.
Jungkook sighed, forcing himself to rest, even as his mind refused to quiet. Instead, he listened to you, to the even rhythm of your breathing, to the small, unconscious sighs you made in sleep. He hated how much it soothed him.
His attention flicked to Jimin. He didn’t want to be impressed with Jimin, but he was. The man had trailed you both far longer and closer than Jungkook had expected. His nose and ears should’ve caught Jimin falling behind immediately, struggling to keep up. Instead, Jimin had barely made a sound, his scent present for quite a while but never overstepping for the first two hours. That kind of skill wasn’t common, even among their kind.
Jungkook let the night pass, letting you rest as long as possible before the first streaks of gold kissed the horizon. He turned toward you, placing a careful hand on your shoulder.
You jolted awake, blinking up at him, eyes still hazy with sleep.
“Is’t’time to switch?” you mumbled groggily.
Jungkook shook his head, hiding a small, almost amused smile. “No, we keep moving. By midday, we’ll reach my village.”
You sat up quickly, rubbing the sleep from your eyes before nodding. “A’right.”
Without another word, he shifted, his massive wolf form towering over you once again. You climbed onto his back, hands gripping his thick fur.
Jungkook took off, the forest blurring around you as he ran.
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The closer they got to the village, the more the air changed. Jungkook smelled it before he saw it—the thick, coppery scent of blood, the acrid sting of burnt wood and fur. Even from a distance, his stomach twisted. The attack had been worse than he thought.
But there was no time to dwell. His pace never slowed, his focus never wavered. He didn’t stop when distant figures noticed him and called out. He didn’t stop when the pack members turned, some running to greet him, others frozen in shock at the sight of the stranger riding on his back. He didn’t even acknowledge the murmurs that rippled through the village as he raced straight to the Pack House.
He only stopped when he nearly slammed into the doors.
You jumped off his back just as he shifted, barely taking a second to regain his human form before grabbing your wrist and pulling you inside. The scent of sickness, of suffering, was even worse in here. Bodies lay in makeshift beds, wolves in both human and shifted form, their wounds bandaged but still raw. A few heads turned, weak eyes barely registering his arrival before exhaustion pulled them back under.
He barely had a moment to breathe before a figure blocked his path.
Jin.
And beside him, Hoseok—whose face was twisted in fury.
“A witch?!” Hoseok snarled, stepping forward, his teeth bared. “You really left us to go get a witch! For all the problems we have, you thought bringing one into the mix would help?”
His glare snapped to you, and before he could move, before he could even think about lunging, Jungkook was there. His body moved on instinct, stepping between you and his furious friend, his own teeth bared in a low, guttural growl.
Hoseok froze. His amber eyes flicked to Jungkook’s face, the realization dawning like a slap across the face.
“No,” he breathed, barely above a whisper. His eyes darted between you and Jungkook, horror creeping into his features. “Tell me you’re joking.”
Jungkook didn’t respond. He just kept his stance firm, his growl deepening as his fingers twitched at his sides, ready to strike if necessary.
A moment of heavy silence passed before Jin sighed, rubbing his temples. “We don’t have time for this,” he muttered. “If she can help, she stays. If she can’t, then this argument is pointless.”
Hoseok didn’t look convinced, but he took a step back, his lips still curled in frustration. He shot you a final glare before turning on his heel. “If this backfires, it’s on you,” he snapped at Jungkook before storming off.
Jin exhaled heavily, looking at you with far less hostility but no less wariness. “You sure you know what you’re doing?”
You didn’t hesitate. Instead of answering Jin’s wary question, you turned to him with crisp authority. “I need a lot of hot water, at least two sets of helping hands—people who will follow my orders without hesitation—and as many of your local healing plants as you can gather.”
Jin blinked, caught off guard by your sudden command. He hesitated for a second, clearly unused to being ordered around, but you didn’t give him the time to argue. “Get to it,” you said sharply, already moving.
You pulled your hair into a quick ponytail as you retrieved a piece of chalk from your satchel. With quick, practiced strokes, you began writing intricate symbols on the door behind you, then moved to the windows, murmuring under your breath as you worked. Protective runes, sealing wards, and cleansing scripts—each one carefully placed to strengthen the space around you, to keep the sickness from spreading and the darkness from lingering. Jungkook watched you with a furrowed brow, confusion flickering across his face, but he didn’t interrupt. There was something about the way you carried yourself—an unshakable presence that made even the strongest warriors in the room hesitate to question you.
Then, the work began.
The next several hours blurred together in a haze of movement and whispered incantations. You barely had time to think as you worked, your hands steady, your magic sharp. Jungkook remained by your side, assisting without hesitation. Whether it was holding down a thrashing patient, keeping pressure on a wound, or simply fetching what you needed before you asked, he was there. Others, however, were less trusting. When one of his pack members hesitated too long, questioning your methods instead of acting, you threw them out without a second thought. There was no room for doubt, no time for superstition. Every move you made was precise, every incantation purposeful, as if everything you did from the moment you entered was one long healing ritual. The tension in the room was thick, but you ignored it.
Hoseok entered once. He stood in the doorway, arms crossed, his sharp gaze watching and waiting for you to make a mistake. If you noticed his presence, you didn’t let it show. You had no time for petty pack politics—not when lives were on the line. Eventually, even he had to acknowledge that whatever you were doing, it was working. The air in the Pack House shifted. The stench of death and decay lessened, the oppressive weight of sickness lifting, if only slightly.
Jungkook had seen magic before—had fought against it, had learned to be wary of it. But he had never seen this. You moved through the room like a storm contained in human form, commanding not just the space but the people within it. Never had he seen a witch walk into a den of wolves and take control like the very air bent to their will.
It made his skin crawl.
Not out of fear. No, the unease twisting in his gut was something far more dangerous than fear.
It was recognition.
Because as he watched you move—commanding the space like you had been born to lead, unwavering even under the weight of distrust and still showing compassion—something inside him whispered the truth.
Mine.
It was infuriating.
Because you weren’t just any witch. You were powerful. Respected. Feared. And now, for better or worse, you were his mate.
The idea that fate, that anything, could have decided for him that a witch of all people was meant to be his mate. His future. The thought unsettled him. Witches and shifters did not mix. It was unheard of. And not just any witch, but you. The next in line to lead your coven if he heard right. Someone who, from the moment you had stepped into this house, had taken control with an ease that made his pack uneasy.
It made him uneasy.
By midday the next day, after working non-stop since the moment you stepped into the Pack House, much had changed.
Of the seventeen wounded, seven were finally strong enough to sit and speak—even Namjoon was coming by. Three had insisted on leaving, eager to return to help with the aftermath of the attack. But one life still hung in the balance—a child, their small body ravaged by a cursed weapon. You had done nearly everything you could. Every herb, every spell, every ounce of magic you possessed had been poured into saving them. Now, the rest was up to the child’s spirit.
But not everyone was willing to accept that answer.
“You saved the others. Why not my son?” a voice snapped from the corner of the room. It was a woman, her face drawn with exhaustion and grief. You turned slowly, your own exhaustion heavy in your bones, but your expression remained unreadable. “Magic is not a quick fix, it means sacrifice, it means willpower.” you said, your voice steady. “I have given him every chance, more would be reckless. Now, he must choose to fight.”
The words hung heavy in the air, met with silence and barely concealed tension.
“There has to be something more you can do! ” the woman demanded more from you, her voice sharp with grief and desperation, Jungkook felt the tension in the room spike. The mother’s pain was suffocating, but the Pack’s suspicion was heavier. It was clear what they were thinking. That you had chosen who to save and who to let die.
That you had let the boy suffer.
Jungkook stiffened, ready to step in, to defend you. But before he could, another voice cut through the space like a blade.
Hoseok.
His closest friend. One of Namjoons most trusted like himself. And the one person he knew would not let this go easily.
“Can’t,” Hoseok said, his voice low and sharp. “Or won’t?”
Jungkook stiffened, was about to snap—was about to remind Hoseok that you had spent the last day and night healing their wounded without so much as a break.
This situation was dangerous.
Hoseok wasn’t just questioning you—he was challenging you.
And yet, instead of backing down, instead of shrinking under the weight of an entire pack ready to turn on you, you moved.
Fast.
Around Jungkook. Right in front of Hoseok.
A bold, reckless move.
No one challenged Hoseok like that—not unless they wanted a fight. But you stood before him, meeting his glare without flinching. Your voice, when it came, was cold. Calculated.
For a split second, Jungkook forgot to breathe. For a split second, everything in him went tight—instincts roaring to life at the sight of you placing yourself between two wolves. He almost grabbed you, almost pulled you back, but you weren’t afraid.
Not of Hoseok. Not of anyone.
Instead, you lifted your chin and met his glare with something colder. “What would you willingly give to save the child?”
A beat of silence.
Then, a scoff. “What?”
You turned away from him, eyes locking onto the mother. “His name,” you demanded.
The woman hesitated, confused, but answered in a shaky breath. “S-Sunwoo, a-and I would give anything.”
The shift in the room was immediate. Tension coiled tighter, like a wire pulled to the breaking point.
Jungkook saw it—saw the way something flickered across your face at the name. It was gone in an instant, replaced by something unreadable, but it was there.
Hoseok noticed too, but he didn’t take it seriously.
“What, you think saying his name is gonna fix this?” He let out a sharp, humorless laugh. “You’re not a god, witch.”
The snarl in his voice was met with something colder in yours. “I never claimed to be.”
Then, before anyone could react, you grabbed Hoseok’s wrist.
Jungkook saw it happen in real-time, and yet, he still couldn’t believe it.
Your fingers locked around Hoseok’s wrist.
The entire room reacted.
Wolves tensed. Muscles coiled, teeth bared. A ripple of aggression spread through the Pack like a match to dry grass. Hoseok froze for a split second—shocked, furious—but before he could yank back, you pulled him forward, dragging him to the child’s side with an ease that sent a whisper of something dark through the watching crowd.
Jungkook was stunned.
No one touched Hoseok like that. No one dared.
And yet, here you were.
Gasps echoed around the room. The Pack’s unease morphed into outright hostility. Several wolves growled low in their throats, eyes flashing with warning, but you ignored them all.
You had everyone’s attention now.
“A miracle,” you said, voice laced with something ancient. Something powerful. “Fine! You’ll get a miracle. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”
You offered a gentle hand to Sunwoo’s mother, inviting her to take a leap of faith.
And she did.
Slowly, carefully, her trembling fingers found yours.
Jungkook felt it before anything else.
As you started to murmur, the air shifted. The words you spoke were unintelligible, a language he had never heard before. Even your breathing sounded melodic, weaving through the tension like a song long forgotten.
The magic curling through the room, thick and cold, the air turning sharp enough to taste. His wolf bristled beneath his skin, instincts screaming danger. Every instinct screamed at him to move, to stop this, to protect.
But he didn’t.
Because he didn’t know how to protect you from something you were obviously the cause of.
He swallowed down the urge to growl, but others weren’t as restrained. A ripple of unease spread through the pack, some baring their teeth, others shifting on their feet like they were fighting the urge to move.
Then the sky outside darkened.
Not like nightfall. No, this was unnatural—shadows stretching long where there should have been light, the temperature in the room plummeting.
Hoseok stiffened. “What the hell—”
He tried to pull away, but you tightened your grip. “If you move, the boy dies.”
The mother trembled. A dead silence.
Then—
A flash of silver.
Jungkook lunged, instincts overriding thought, but it was already too late. Before he could react, you had already moved.
The blade cut clean across Hoseok’s palm.
Not deep. Not fatal. Just enough.
Blood welled up on Hoseok’s skin. Another on the mother’s hand.
Then—
Yours.
The scent of it filled the air, sharper than the rest. Jungkook’s wolf reared in his chest, nearly throwing him forward, but he held himself back.
Your blood hit the boy’s skin, mixing with the others.
The second it did, the world lurched.
A pulse of magic ripped through the room, snapping against his senses like a whip.
Hoseok’s breath hitched, muscles locked like he was fighting something unseen. The mother gasped, eyes going wide as her fingers trembled in yours.
Jungkook fought the overwhelming wrongness of it all, his wolf howling in protest, instincts screaming—
Then you looked at him.
It was brief. A single glance.
But it was enough.
Because in that moment, as the spell took its toll, you knew.
For better or worse, he would be the one to keep you alive.
Then you collapsed.
His body moved before his mind caught up.
One second, you were standing—the next, you were falling.
Jungkook caught you before you hit the ground, his arms locking around you instinctively.
Dead weight.
Limp.
Too pale.
Too still.
For a single, horrifying moment, he thought—
No. No, you were still breathing.
Hoseok snapped out of his daze, golden eyes flashing with fury. “She—”
Jungkook could already hear it coming.
“Jungkook,” Hoseok growled, voice sharp with rage. “She attacked us! She—”
“Enough.” Jungkook’s voice was steel, sharper than fangs.
But the argument never even started.
Because behind them—soft, barely audible at first—a sound shattered the tension.
A sob.
The mother.
And then—
A small, shuddering inhale.
Jungkook turned just in time to see the boy’s eyes flutter open.
The Pack House fell into stunned silence.
Sunwoo was alive.
You had done the impossible.
But as Jungkook looked down at your unconscious form in his arms—too fragile, too vulnerable—he knew one thing for certain.
Whatever you had done…
It had cost you.
And now, unconscious in his arms, you were more vulnerable than ever.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
Warmth.
That was the first thing you noticed as you slowly drifted back into consciousness.
Not the suffocating, burning heat of magic consuming you from the inside out, but something gentler. Something that cradled you rather than scorched. A soft, steady warmth, surrounding you like a cocoon.
You shifted, blinking slowly as your vision swam into focus. The ceiling above you was wooden, dark beams stretching across a thatched roof. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of pine and something clean. Not sterile, but fresh—like newly laundered clothes, like herbs hanging to dry.
You inhaled deeply.
Bad idea.
Pain lanced through your chest, raw and sharp, like your ribs had been scraped raw from the inside. A low groan left your lips as you tried to push yourself up, but the aftermath of the spell was still weighing you down. Blood magic was always nasty. You had known it would take a toll, but even this was worse than you had expected.
The sound of movement snapped you from your haze.
A shadow shifted in the corner of your vision, and before you could react, Jungkook was at your side.
You blinked up at him, startled. He had moved fast, so fast you hadn't even registered it. His dark eyes were locked onto you, sharp and searching, but his touch was careful as he slid an arm behind your back, steadying you as you struggled to sit upright.
“You’re awake,” he murmured, his voice low, unreadable.
You stared at him. Really looked at him.
His face was tense, jaw set tight like he was barely keeping himself from saying something else. His brows were drawn together, but the emotion in his eyes was harder to pin down. Frustration? Relief?
You swallowed, glancing down at yourself. You were covered with a thick, woolen blanket, the rough texture oddly grounding. Beneath it, you could feel the stiffness of dried blood clinging to your skin and gauze placed on the cut you forces on yourself.
“I am not dead?” you finally rasped, voice hoarse.
Jungkook blinked, momentarily thrown. “…Why would you be?”
You exhaled a weak, humorless laugh. “Well, I did cut two of your—what is it called? Mates? Pack friends?”
His lips twitched, but he didn’t let himself smile. “Pack members.”
“Right.” You frowned, trying to make sense of it all. “And they didn’t kill me in my sleep?”
Jungkook’s expression hardened. “No one was going to touch you.”
You searched his face, trying to understand. They had been furious with you earlier—cautious, wary, resentful of what you were – he had been. And yet, here he was. Sitting beside you, supporting your weight, his voice steady and protective.
“…Why?” you finally asked.
Jungkook’s jaw flexed, something flickering behind his eyes. “I swore to protect you, didn’t I? Not that you make it easy for me.”
You studied him for a long moment. He wasn’t lying. But something about the way he said it made you uneasy. Not in a fearful way, but because it felt… too certain.
Your gaze flickered around the room. It was small but cozy. The wooden walls were lined with shelves, neatly stacked with supplies—herbs, dried meat, woven baskets filled with folded blankets. A fire crackled in the corner, its glow casting flickering shadows across the space.
“You are in my home,” Jungkook told you, watching your expression carefully. “You were unconscious for a few hours.”
You exhaled. “Only hours? Lucky. I feared it could take days.”
Jungkook leaned forward slightly, his dark brows furrowing. “What did you do?” unsettled by your remark.
You sighed, shifting against the pillows. “A spell like that—one tied to blood and life—it doesn’t simply heal. It rewrites fate. But magic is never free. Something had to be given in return.”
Jungkook’s expression darkened. “And what did you give?”
You hesitated. That was the question, wasn’t it? You felt the price deep in your bones. You had rewritten the boy’s fate—tied it to his mother’s love, to the wolf’s strength, and to your belief in the old ways. It would keep him alive, for as long as all three remained. But how to explain it that it made sence?
Jungkook seemed to sense your reluctance, but he didn’t push. Instead, he leaned back, rubbing a hand over his face before speaking again.
“The boy woke up minutes after you collapsed,” he finally said. “His mother… she was beside herself. Crying, thanking you, thanking the gods.”
You nodded slowly. “And the rest of the Pack?”
Jungkook’s jaw ticked. “Weren’t as forgiving.”
That didn’t surprise you.
“Hoseok wanted me to kill you,” he admitted bluntly, watching your reaction.
You snorted, shaking your head. “That tracks.”
Jungkook didn’t look amused. “Namjoon woke up before it came to that.”
You straightened slightly. “The Pack leader?”
Jungkook nodded. “The Alpha” helping you jet again with the terminology of his people “He wasn’t happy about the blood magic, but he told me to stay with you until we could all talk. He wants answers.”
You let out a slow breath. That was better than you expected. “Then I suppose I should clean up before I meet him.”
Jungkook hesitated, his wolf bristling. You felt the shift in him, the restless energy rolling off him in waves.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” he asked, voice lower now, softer.
You met his eyes, really met them this time. Despite everything, there was something grounding in the way he looked at you—like no matter how much he didn’t understand you, he was still there with you.
“I will be,” you finally said.
It wasn’t a lie.
Jungkook studied you for a long moment, then nodded. Without another word, he stood and helped you up, steadying you when you wavered on your feet.
“This way,” he murmured.
He led you to a small adjoining room, where a simple wooden tub sat against the far wall, filled with water still warm from the fire. The room smelled of clean linen and dried lavender.
Jungkook hesitated in the doorway, his muscles still taut with tension. His wolf wasn’t at ease—not at all.
“I’ll be close,” he said, his voice almost a warning. “Call if you need anything.”
You nodded, and with one last, reluctant glance, he stepped away.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
When you finally emerged, fresh and wrapped in a black dress, Jungkook was waiting. His dark eyes scanned you once, checking for any lingering signs of weakness. But only found you stunning. Then, without a word, he gestured for you to follow.
The walk to Namjoon’s home was not a quiet one.
Some villagers greeted you with cautious nods. Others weren’t as welcoming.
A low growl rumbled in the chest of one passing wolf, his lips curling in an unmistakable snarl.
Jungkook was on him in an instant.
A single warning glare was all it took—the wolf backed down immediately, lowering his gaze. But Jungkook didn’t move until the threat had completely passed, his posture stiff as he resumed walking beside you.
By the time you reached Namjoon’s home, you could feel Jungkook’s closeness, his silent protectiveness pressing against you like a shield.
Inside, Namjoon sat at the head of a long wooden table. Beside him stood two men—Jin, whose gaze was neutral, and Hoseok, whose was not.
You took a breath, then stepped forward, bowing slightly. “Leader of the wolves,” you greeted with as much respect as you could manage.
Namjoon studied you for a moment, then nodded.
“Witch from the valley. Sit,” he said.
Jungkook, still hovering close, pulled out a chair. You sat.
Hoseok exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “So, we’re really trusting her now?”
You didn’t react.
Namjoon silenced Hoseok with a sharp glare before turning to you, his expression unreadable but not unkind. “Regardless of what happened,” he said, voice steady, “you saved lives today. My life included. For that, you have my thanks.”
A small flicker of surprise crossed Jin’s face at Namjoon’s words, but it was gone just as fast. Hoseok, on the other hand, looked like he wanted to argue, but Namjoon’s authority weighed heavier than his temper.
Still, gratitude aside, there was something else Namjoon wanted to know.
“But that still leaves the question—why are you here?” His dark gaze settled on you, unwavering. “What brought you to us?”
Before you could answer, Jungkook shifted beside you. “Hyung, after the attack, after Jin told me that with our healing there wasn’t a chance for you and the others to survive…” He exhaled sharply, hands clenching at his sides. “I went and got help.”
Namjoon’s brows lifted slightly. “Help.”
“Yes,” Jungkook confirmed. His jaw tensed, the weight of something unspoken pressing against his ribs. He had found you. His mate. But he wouldn’t—couldn’t—blurt that out. Not yet.
Namjoon, however, wasn’t interested in hearing the story from Jungkook. His attention remained on you, gaze steady. “And what about you?” he asked. “Why did you come?”
You met his eyes without hesitation. “Because I wasn’t going to sit back and do nothing when I could save a life.” There was no waver in your voice, no doubt. “More than that, our people—your pack and my coven—have an unspoken truce. A natural understanding. You know it as well as I do.”
The reaction to that was immediate. Jin’s lips parted slightly in surprise. Hoseok’s entire posture stiffened, his jaw going tight. Even Namjoon blinked once, as if processing your words.
“Your coven,” Jin repeated, carefully.
You nodded, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world, then smoothly changed the subject. “But I didn’t come here to debate history. I came here because you were attacked, and such attacks are never random. We need to talk about it.”
Namjoon leaned forward slightly, but before he could respond, Hoseok’s temper snapped.
“Oh no,” he growled, stepping forward, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. “We’re not just moving on like that. You think you can wave your damned magic around, bind me to some spell, and walk away without explaining a damn thing?”
Jungkook’s body tensed beside you, ready to step in if necessary, but you didn’t seem the least bit rattled. Instead, you simply turned to Hoseok with a look that nearly belittled him. His misconceptions about magic, about what you had done—it was almost amusing.
But you didn’t explain. Not really. Not the way you had to Jungkook in his home, when you had taken the time to tell him why blood magic was what it was. Hoseok didn’t deserve that much.
Your silence only seemed to enrage him further. “If you could heal the kid that way,” he snapped, “why didn’t you do it from the start? Why not remove all spells while you’re at it?”
Your lips curved into something that was not quite a smile. “You’re under the impression that magic is a game, wolf.” Your voice was calm, but there was something sharp beneath it. “That I pick and choose on a whim. If I could take away all spells, don’t you think I would have? Or do you think I enjoy exhausting myself to the point of collapse?”
Hoseok opened his mouth to argue, but you didn’t let him.
“I came here to help,” you continued, voice steady. “But if my presence is such a problem, I can leave.”
Jungkook hated that. The very idea of you leaving made something raw claw at his chest. His wolf snarled inside him, restless, angry. But then you added something else.
“My guard has been following me,” you said, ignoring the way Jungkook’s entire body went rigid. “he’ll arrive within the next two days. That will give me a safe way back.”
Jungkook hated that more.
Because your guard meant one person in particular.
Jimin.
A cold possessiveness curled in his gut at the thought of you leaving with him.
But it wasn’t just Jungkook who disliked the idea. Namjoon exhaled slowly, considering you for a long moment before shaking his head.
“You’re already here. You saved too many of my people for me to let you walk out without proper thanks.” Namjoon’s voice was firm, final in a way that left no room for argument. Then, after a brief pause, his eyes flickered to Hoseok with disapproval. “But maybe we should talk without an audience.”
Jungkook tensed beside you, his shoulders coiling tight. He knew what that meant. He was about to be sent away. Away from you.
And he hated it.
His wolf snarled in protest, the very idea of leaving you unprotected—even with Namjoon—feeling like the worst kind of mistake. Rationally, he knew you weren’t defenseless, but rationality had never done much to quiet the instincts ingrained in his very bones.
But before he could argue, you spoke.
“Sure,” you said, tone as even as ever. “But I would like Jungkook to be present.”
Jungkook barely had time to register the words before a rush of satisfaction surged through him. If he were in his wolf form, he was sure his tail would have wagged like an idiot’s.
Namjoon raised an eyebrow. “You want Jungkook here?”
You nodded once. “My… guard entrusted his duties to him while we went ahead. If you trust him with what we will talk about?”
The corner of Namjoon’s lips twitched slightly, amusement barely concealed beneath his otherwise unreadable expression. Jin, who had been silent up until now, let out a quiet hum, something knowing in his gaze as he glanced between the two of you.
Hoseok, on the other hand, looked utterly disgusted.
“Oh, you have got to be kidding me—”
“Hoseok.” Namjoon’s voice was sharp. A warning.
Hoseok exhaled harshly through his nose, but this time, he didn’t argue. He just folded his arms across his chest and looked off to the side, jaw tight with barely restrained irritation.
Namjoon turned his attention back to you, giving a single nod. “Alright. Jungkook stays.”
Jungkook swallowed back the irrational relief that flooded through him. He refused to acknowledge why the thought of being away from you had filled him with such tension in the first place.
As Jin and Hoseok moved, Hoseok was outright hostile. But Jin nodded in silent acknowledgment. Recognition.
You had saved many of their own.
And, whether they liked it or not, that meant something.
You weren’t leaving.
And neither was he.
The discussion with Namjoon had been more productive than you’d expected.
The Pack’s leader was measured, sharp, and wary, but he wasn’t unreasonable. By the end of the conversation, you had secured safe passage through the village under his protection. He had also agreed that your arriving guard—Jimin—would be granted the same privileges.
Of course, not all wolves would warm up to you overnight. Trust, especially among werewolves, was a hard-won thing. Some still viewed you with outright hostility, others with silent wariness. But Namjoon had made his stance clear. You were not to be harmed. And as long as Jungkook upheld his promise to keep you safe, you had no doubt that promise would be honored.
Then came the question of where you would stay.
Namjoon, ever the pragmatic leader, had offered you a room in the Pack House. It was logical. The Pack House was the safest place in the village, close to the highest-ranking wolves, the center of their power.
But before you could accept, before Namjoon could even finish explaining the arrangements—
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
Jungkook’s voice cut in, firm and decisive.
You blinked at him. Namjoon raised an eyebrow.
And Jungkook—well.
Jungkook realized what he had just said a second too late.
His ears turned red.
“With some wolves still hostile,” he quickly added, looking anywhere but at you, “it would be better if she stayed with me. That way, she wouldn’t have to deal with suspicious packmates glaring at her all night.”
There was a heavy silence.
Then—
Namjoon hummed. Amused. “Oh?”
Jungkook stiffened. “I— I just meant—”
“You meant that her safety is your responsibility,” Namjoon said, voice neutral but his gaze anything but. His eyes held something knowing, something that made Jungkook shift uncomfortably under its weight. “Good.”
Jungkook hated that look.
You, on the other hand, weren’t as flustered as Jungkook clearly was. Instead, you just tilted your head slightly, gaze lingering on him for a moment before nodding. “That’s fine with me.”
Jungkook swallowed hard.
Then came the next topic.
The hunters.
You had no doubt that the last attack had only been the beginning. If they had struck once, they would strike again. And when they did, both your coven and the werewolf village would be in danger.
Namjoon agreed.
Which was why you made your offer.
“I can ward the village,” you said simply. “Every protection spell I know, every barrier I can weave. It won’t stop a full-blown assault, but it will make it harder for them to get close without us knowing.”
Namjoon’s eyes narrowed slightly. “And what would you want in return?”
Your answer was immediate.
“A friendship.”
The room went silent.
You met Namjoon’s gaze without flinching. “Your people and mine don’t need to love each other. But we can help each other. Like now. Like this. When it matters.”
Something shifted in Namjoon’s expression.
After a long moment, he nodded.
“That,” he said, “I can agree to.”
With the terms settled, Namjoon and Jungkook had wanted to take you around the village to begin placing protection spells.
Except—
Your stomach had other ideas.
A quiet, traitorous rumble filled the room.
For a second, no one said anything.
Then—
Jungkook turned to look at you, blinking.
Heat immediately flooded your face.
You pressed a hand against your stomach as if that would somehow take back the sound, but the damage was done. Namjoon’s lips twitched in amusement. And Jungkook—
Jungkook grinned.
His wolf preened at the sight of your flushed face.
You cleared your throat. “Perhaps… a break before we start?”
Jungkook was already pushing up from his chair. “I’ll get food.”
Namjoon nodded. “Eat first. We can go after.”
And just like that, you found yourself following Jungkook to a smaller, more private space—a cozy, open room in the Pack House where food was often shared among the higher-ranking wolves. It wasn’t the main dining hall, where the majority of the pack ate together, but it wasn’t entirely secluded either.
Jungkook grabbed a plate and started piling food onto it—grilled meat, roasted vegetables, thick slices of bread. He moved with ease, almost unconsciously, as if he had done this a hundred times.
Which, you supposed, he had.
“You don’t have to serve me, you know,” you pointed out, watching him.
Jungkook didn’t even look up. “You just fainted a few hours ago. You’re eating.”
You huffed but said nothing as he handed you a full plate.
Then—before you could react—he grabbed a piece of bread and ripped it in half.
You stared.
“…Are you always this aggressive with your food?”
Jungkook paused mid-chew, eyes flicking to you.
Then he grinned, mouth still full. “Hmph.”
You rolled your eyes, but the corners of your lips twitched.
You sat down at one of the wooden tables, and Jungkook took the seat beside you—right beside you, not across, not with space between. His thigh was close enough to brush against yours, his presence a warm, solid weight beside you.
You hadn’t realized how hungry you were until you took the first bite. The food was simple but good. Well-seasoned, filling. It grounded you in a way you hadn’t realized you needed.
Jungkook watched you, a small flicker of satisfaction in his expression.
“You like it?” he asked.
You nodded, swallowing. “It’s good.”
Jungkook watched you eat with a quiet, deep satisfaction.
It wasn’t just relief that you were eating after what you had been through. It was something older, something ingrained into his instincts, something wolfen.
You were eating his food.
Food he had picked for you. Food he had given you.
And you liked it.
A low, pleased hum rumbled in his chest, too deep to be entirely human. His wolf settled, tail-wagging levels of happy, as you took another bite, clearly enjoying the meal.
He knew, logically, that you didn’t understand the significance. That you weren’t one of them.
But in his world, in his nature, providing for a mate was instinctual. Offering food wasn’t just kindness—it was a sign of care, protection. It was a wolf’s responsibility. Making sure you had everything you needed, that you were safe and fed, felt more fulfilling than it should.
Jungkook glanced at your plate—mostly empty now—and felt a surge of satisfaction so strong it almost startled him.
You had eaten everything.
Jin, who had silently slid into the seat across from you at some point, noticed.
Noticed the way Jungkook was sitting a little too close. The way his eyes flickered with something warm and possessive. The way his body was angled protectively toward you, even though there was no immediate threat.
And Jin, being Jin, did what he did best.
He grinned.
Jungkook shot him a glare, but it lacked heat.
Jin just picked up a piece of meat and bit into it lazily. “So,” he mused, glancing between you and Jungkook, “you’re really staying with him, huh?”
You swallowed the last bit of food, nodding. “Apparently.”
Jin’s grin widened. “Interesting.”
Jungkook groaned.
After you finished eating, Jin pushed himself up from his seat, stretching. “Namjoon’s caught up with other things,” he said, “so I’ll be the one following you while you work on the protection spells.”
Jungkook immediately frowned.
You gave Jin a small smile, genuinely pleased to have him accompany you. “You’re welcome to come, but I should warn you—it’s probably going to be boring.”
Jin gasped dramatically, placing a hand over his chest. “Boring? Do you not know who I am? I am the life of every gathering. I bring light to the darkest of days. I—”
“You talk too much,” Jungkook muttered, rolling his eyes.
Jin ignored him, grinning as he leaned slightly closer to you. “Besides, if I wasn’t there, who knows what kind of trouble you and Jungkook would get into all alone?”
Jungkook kicked him under the table.
Jin howled, clutching his shin. “See?! This is the treatment I get for trying to protect your reputation?”
Jungkook scowled, but his ears were turning red.
You just shook your head, standing up chuckling. “Let’s just go.”
Jin, still grinning despite the pain, followed with a smug expression. Then, after one last glance at your empty plate—Jungkook’s wolf practically purring at the sight—you set off to begin your work.
The afternoon passed in a blur of whispered incantations and flickering air.
Some spells were nearly invisible, their effects subtle and woven seamlessly into the land. Others were more obvious—the air shimmered in places where barriers strengthened, the light bending as if the very world was shifting to accommodate your magic.
Jungkook watched you with open awe.
He had never seen magic like this before.
Of course, he had always known witches could do things wolves could not. But witnessing it firsthand—watching you shape the world with your hands, bend energy with nothing but your will—was entirely different.
You were unlike anything he had ever encountered.
And the pack was beginning to see it too.
At first, they had simply observed from a distance, hesitant and wary. But as the day went on, some wolves grew bolder. A few approached, curiosity outweighing suspicion.
Jungkook was tense at first. He didn’t like the way some of the wolves hovered nearby, their eyes locked onto you as you worked. Even if they weren’t outright hostile, they were still watching—still wary, still uncertain.
It made his wolf restless. Protective.
But as the day stretched on, something began to shift.
At first, the wolves had simply observed from a distance, hesitant and cautious. But curiosity was a powerful thing, and eventually, it overpowered their distrust. A few wolves stepped closer, drawn in by the strange yet mesmerizing sight of your work.
Jungkook kept his stance firm, his expression unreadable, but Jin nudged him lightly.
“Relax,” Jin murmured under his breath. “Look at them. They’re not snarling. They’re not snapping their teeth. Give them a chance.”
Jungkook exhaled slowly, glancing at you.
You were so focused, so calm, tracing unseen lines in the air with your fingertips, murmuring soft incantations that made the very atmosphere flicker. Your magic left shimmering traces behind—sometimes invisible, sometimes shifting like heat waves. It was beautiful.
And, surprisingly, some of the wolves thought so too.
One finally stepped forward, hesitant but determined. “What… exactly are you doing?”
Jungkook stiffened slightly, but you only turned to them with quiet patience.
“I’m warding the village,” you explained simply, pausing in your work to meet their gaze. “Strengthening the defenses so if hunters come again, we’ll have early warnings and protections.”
The wolf frowned, shifting on their feet as if processing your words. Jungkook held his breath, waiting for them to sneer, to challenge, to reject.
But instead—
“…That’s good,” they admitted.
Jungkook blinked.
The wolf didn’t say anything else, but they stepped back, watching you work with less wariness than before.
Jin shot Jungkook a knowing look. See?
And as much as Jungkook hated to admit it, Jin was right.
For the first time since you had arrived, it felt like a small part of the Pack was beginning to accept you. And though Jungkook wouldn’t let his guard down completely—though he still watched every wolf that got too close—he allowed himself to breathe.
It wasn’t acceptance. Not yet.
But it was a start.
Jungkook felt something warm settle in his chest as he observed the shift.
You were changing things here.
For the first time, his pack was beginning to see you not as an outsider, not as a witch—but as someone helping them.
And then—
“You should stop.”
Your hands stilled mid-gesture as Jungkook’s voice cut through the evening air.
You turned to look at him, confused. “What?”
The sun was dipping lower now, staining the sky in deep oranges and purples. The air was cooling.
Jungkook’s jaw was tight.
“You should stop for today.”
You frowned. “I can keep going.”
“No.”
The word was firm.
Your frown deepened. “Jungkook, I’m fine—”
“You fainted earlier.”
The reminder sent a ripple of stubbornness through you. “That was from a blood spell, not this.”
“I don’t care.”
His voice was steady, but his eyes—
His eyes were intense.
Frustrated. Worried.
His wolf was pacing beneath his skin, restless. The memory of you collapsing, unconscious and pale, was still too fresh.
You hesitated.
He took a step closer, his expression dark and serious. “You’re not pushing yourself past your limit again.”
The protective edge in his tone caught you off guard.
Jin, standing a few feet away, watched with open amusement but said nothing.
You sighed, rubbing the back of your neck. “Jungkook—”
“No.”
You huffed under your breath, muttering, “You’re worse than Jimin.”
It wasn’t meant to be a big deal, just an exasperated complaint, but the second the words left your mouth, Jungkook’s expression darkened.
Worse than Jimin?
Jungkook, was not amused.
“Worse than Jimin?” he repeated, voice flat.
You blinked at him, only now realizing what you had done.
Jungkook didn’t like being compared to Jimin. But even more than that, he didn’t like the implication behind your words—the one that suggested you needed someone to stop you, that you wouldn’t stop on your own. That you had the same reckless streak that Jimin always scolded you for.
His jaw clenched. “That supposed to mean something?”
You hesitated. “It means you’re being dramatic.”
“Dramatic?”
Jin snorted. “You are being a little dramatic, Jungkook.”
Jungkook shot him a glare, but it lacked real heat. Then he turned back to you, his sharp eyes searching your face.
“Stop pushing yourself,” he said firmly.
You exhaled, dragging a hand through your hair. You hadn’t even done that much. But something about the way he was watching you—like you were one wrong move away from collapsing again—made it impossible to argue.
You exhaled slowly. Then, finally, you gave in. “…Fine.”
Jungkook’s shoulders relaxed just slightly.
You hadn’t noticed how tense he had been.
Jin snickered. “Didn’t know you were this bossy, Jungkook.”
Jungkook ignored him.
Instead, his gaze softened as he looked at you. “Come on. You’ve done enough for today.”
And just like that—before you could argue further—he reached out, wrapping his fingers around your wrist, tugging you gently in the direction of his home.
You let him lead you.
And behind you, Jin’s grin only widened.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
Jungkook didn’t let go of your wrist the entire walk back.
It wasn’t until you stepped inside his home—until the door shut behind you, sealing you both in the quiet warmth of his space—that he realized it.
His body tensed. His grip slackened.
And then, as if burned, he let go.
Too fast. Too abrupt. He had been so preoccupied with keeping you close, with making sure you didn’t push yourself too hard, that he hadn’t thought about what he was doing. About what it meant.
His whole body tensed as he stepped away, putting deliberate distance between you. His jaw clenched, a muscle ticking near his temple, and you could practically see the war waging inside him. Something unsettled flickered in his eyes, like a question he wasn’t willing to ask.
His heart pounded in his chest, restless and uneasy, his wolf scratching just beneath the surface, urging him to pull you close again. To feel that warmth, that connection.
But he didn’t.
Because that would be reckless. And selfish.
You hadn’t chosen him. Hell, you might not even know.
Jungkook swallowed, his throat bobbing, before his gaze snapped away. "You should take the bed."
You turned to him, one brow arching. "What?"
"You heard me." He gestured toward the small but comfortable-looking bed in the adjacent room. "You're still recovering. Take the bed."
You blinked at him, then let out a sharp laugh. "Oh, absolutely not. You should take the bed. This is your home."
"It's my home, which is why I'm saying you should take it."
You crossed your arms, leveling him with an unimpressed look. "I'm a guest. Guests take the couch. That’s just common courtesy."
"And hosts take care of their guests," he shot back, expression firm. "That’s just common sense."
You narrowed your eyes at him. "You’ve already taken care of me enough."
"You passed out from that spell earlier," he reminded you. " And then spent the entire day working." He took a slow step closer, voice dipping into something softer. "You need proper rest."
"So do you."
Jungkook exhaled sharply, dragging a hand through his hair.
You raised an eyebrow, feeling smug for a moment—until you saw the way his ears had turned pink.
Jungkook didn’t care about himself. He cared about you.
And that realization made something unfamiliar twist low in your stomach.
Still, you weren’t about to let him win so easily.
"You’re taking the bed," he insisted.
"I’m taking the couch."
"You’re so damn stubborn."
You smirked. "Thank you."
"It wasn’t a compliment."
"Sure sounded like one."
Jungkook let out a low, frustrated groan, rolling his eyes skyward like he was asking the moon for patience.
This shouldn’t be such a big deal. It was just a bed. But the thought of you sleeping out here on the couch while his bed sat empty didn’t sit right with him. Not at all. You deserved comfort. Safety. The best he could offer you.
And…
And if he was being completely honest, part of him liked the idea of you sleeping in his bed.
Because then, when he went to sleep later—when he laid his head on the pillows and inhaled deeply—your scent would still be there, woven into the fabric, lingering in the space around him.
His wolf purred at the thought, tail practically wagging.
He swallowed thickly, pushing down the surge of want that threatened to rise to the surface.
"You’re taking the bed," he said, tone final.
You huffed. "No, I'm—"
Jungkook growled.
It wasn’t loud, wasn’t threatening—but it was warning.
You froze for half a second, eyes narrowing at him, then sighed. He was serious about this. And honestly… you were exhausted. The last two days had taken more out of you than you wanted to admit. The thought of sinking into a real bed instead of stiff cushions… well. That was tempting. And if Jungkook was going to be this insistent, you might as well accept the offer.
"Fine," you muttered.
Jungkook barely contained his victorious smirk.
Then, before you could change your mind, he turned toward the small storage space in the corner, pulling out a spare blanket for himself. "Good. Now go to sleep."
You rolled your eyes but didn’t argue. Instead, you turned and headed toward the bedroom, the scent of pinewood and something distinctly him wrapping around you as you stepped inside. It was simple but comfortable—neat blankets, a small table near the window, and pillows stacked against the headboard.
It was undeniably his space.
And you were about to sleep in it. You already had, but now you would do so on your own.
And as you walked past him, heading toward his bedroom, Jungkook couldn’t help but glance at you—at the way your presence fit so easily into his home, like you belonged here.
Like you belonged with him.
His chest ached.
He turned away before he could think about it too much.
Tomorrow. He’d think about it tomorrow.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
Jungkook woke up to the soft sounds of clinking utensils and a faint hum of a melody he couldn't quite place. The smell of something warm and comforting filled the air, making his stomach grumble, even though he wasn't quite awake yet.
He blinked slowly, his eyes adjusting to the light streaming through the small window. For a moment, he was disoriented, not fully sure where he was. But then the memory of the night before came rushing back—everything from the blood spell to your stubborn insistence on taking the couch. And now, here you were, in his kitchen, cooking.
He rubbed his face and pushed himself up, wincing slightly at the soreness in his muscles from the events of the last few days. His eyes fell on you, bent over a skillet, the faint sound of sizzling filling the silence between the two of you. You were humming lightly, focused on your task, completely at ease in his space.
The sight of you so comfortable, so... at home, made something warm stir inside him. He couldn’t help the small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. This—this felt like peace. Like everything had settled into place. His mate, in his kitchen, cooking breakfast.
A low chuckle escaped him, and you turned slightly, catching the sound as you noticed him. His gaze met yours, a mix of amusement and something softer, unspoken, in his eyes.
"Good morning," you said, your voice calm and steady, though there was a hint of playfulness in your tone.
Jungkook stretched, his muscles protesting, but he ignored it. "I didn’t realize I was the guest here," he teased softly, trying to keep the mood light. "Shouldn't I be the one making breakfast for you?"
You didn't look up from the stove as you replied, your voice warm but firm, "I'm fine. The breakfast will be ready soon."
Jungkook raised an eyebrow, watching you with a mix of amusement and admiration. There was no winning with you. "What kind of tea are you drinking?" he asked, a change of subject to keep the conversation going.
You paused for just a beat, considering whether you should tease him or not. Your eyes flickered over to him, and with a knowing smile, you said, "Lavender. I hope it’s okay I used yours. And something from the herbs I brought along. It’s meant to help with fatigue."
Jungkook’s eyes narrowed for a moment, but the soft laugh that followed was immediate. "Of course it’s okay. You don’t have to ask, you know." He stretched, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes, and a smile tugged at his lips.
You gave a small, appreciative smile, then turned your attention back to the tea. As you listed the herbs you had brought, Jungkook raised an eyebrow, looking at you with a mix of curiosity and something like suspicion.
"What exactly did you bring?" he asked, his voice teasing. "Are you making potions instead of tea?"
You met his gaze and couldn’t help but laugh lightly. "Nothing that extreme," you teased back, though there was a glint of something serious in your eyes. "Just a blend to help with your energy levels. It’ll give you a little more balance."
"You should try it," you said, your voice gentle as you poured him a cup of tea and passed it to him.
As his fingers brushed yours, a strange, electric feeling ran through him. It was subtle at first—just the briefest of touches—but it sent a jolt of warmth straight to his chest. His heartbeat quickened, his breath catching as the sensation seemed to settle deep inside him. It felt like home, like peace had washed over him.
You froze for a fraction of a second, the weight of the moment hanging between you, but neither of you spoke. Neither of you moved.
Jungkook’s breath faltered as he glanced down at your fingers, now both holding the cup in your hand, feeling the lingering warmth of your touch still dancing along his skin. His wolf stirred restlessly, but Jungkook couldn’t bring himself to break the silence.
He wanted to. He wanted to ask you if you felt it too. But he couldn’t.
You finally broke the moment with a soft, steady exhale, your fingers retreating slowly as you handed him the cup. The air around you felt heavier, charged, but neither of you acknowledged it.
"Do you like it?" you asked, your voice quieter now, almost uncertain.
Jungkook chuckled, though a small part of him still wondered what other strange remedies you had hidden among those herbs. He took a sip of the tea, letting the warm liquid settle over him. He couldn’t deny it was soothing.
"It’s good," he murmured, looking at you with a playful glint. "Maybe you should just make all my tea from now on."
For a moment, you both stood there, silently sharing the quiet of the morning, the tension between you simmering just beneath the surface. Jungkook glanced at you again, wondering if you knew what had just passed between you. Wondering if you could feel it too.
But he didn’t ask. And you didn’t say anything more.
The air hummed with unsaid words. With possibilities neither of you was ready to confront.
Yet.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
Jungkook was still watching you when the sharp knock at the door made you both jump slightly, shattering the fragile moment between you.
Jin’s voice carried through the wood. “Jungkook, open up! You too, witch, I know you’re in there.”
Jungkook groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Hyung, it’s too damn early for your nonsense.”
“Too early?” Jin scoffed. “Half the pack has been awake since dawn. Now open the door before I break it down.”
You exchanged a glance with Jungkook, who rolled his eyes before getting up and swinging the door open.
Jin stood there, arms crossed, looking entirely unimpressed. His sharp gaze flickered over you before settling back on Jungkook. “The pack house needs you both. Some of the wounded need another check, and others specifically asked to thank the witch who healed them.” He gave you a pointed look. “Try not to look so surprised. You did save their lives.”
You shifted, pushing your tea cup aside. “I don’t mind helping,” you said after a pause.
Jin nodded. “Good. Let’s go.”
The walk to the pack house was quiet, though Jungkook stuck close to you, his presence steady beside you. The moment had been disrupted, but you were almost grateful for it—because the longer you spent with him, the harder it was to ignore the lingering dread creeping in. The moment you finished here, you’d have to leave. Jimin was expecting you back home. And the thought of walking away from this place, from Jungkook, left a weight in your chest that you weren’t ready to unpack.
At the pack house, things quickly became busy. You checked over wounds, reinforced healing spells, and even brewed a potion for revitalization—something to help the injured regain their strength faster. Some of the wolves you’d treated were hesitant at first, still wary of a witch in their midst, but others, grateful for your help, actually sought you out to thank you.
Jungkook remained by your side the entire time. Whether it was intentional or not, you weren’t sure, but you could feel him—his presence, his gaze, his silent reassurance. It made it easier to breathe, even as your mind churned with thoughts you didn’t want to face.
Jin stayed behind at the pack house as you and Jungkook left to continue warding the village. You had just reached the edge of the territory when another familiar voice cut through the air.
“You really have no shame, do you?”
Hoseok.
You turned just in time to see him approaching, his expression unreadable but his tone laced with irritation.
Jungkook immediately tensed beside you.
“I’m busy, Hoseok,” you said evenly, refusing to let him get under your skin.
“Oh, I can see that,” he said, eyeing the way Jungkook stood close to you. “Busy playing house with our second-in-command?”
Your jaw clenched, but before you could say anything, Jungkook moved.
He stepped between you and Hoseok, his posture rigid, shoulders squared. “Watch it,” Jungkook warned, voice low and dangerous.
Hoseok raised an eyebrow, unfazed. “What? I’m just wondering when exactly we started trusting witches so easily. Or is she just an exception?”
Jungkook’s muscles coiled, his hands clenching into fists. “I don’t need to explain anything to you.”
Hoseok scoffed, crossing his arms. “Right. Of course not. Just like you don’t need to explain why you’re acting like she’s more important than the pack.”
The accusation sent a sharp wave of tension through the air. You could feel the way Jungkook’s anger crackled beneath the surface, restrained only by a thin thread of control.
“I swore to protect her,” Jungkook said, his voice quiet but firm.
Hoseok’s expression darkened. “Why?”
Jungkook’s grip tightened at his sides. “Because she could saved us.”
Hoseok took a slow step forward, looking past Jungkook to meet your gaze. “Did she? Or did she just do what was convenient for her?”
That was the final straw.
Jungkook lunged first.
The impact was sudden, raw. The two of them crashed to the ground, rolling through the dirt as fists flew. Hoseok wasn’t weak, but neither was Jungkook—especially not when he was this furious.
You barely had time to react before they were locked in a vicious struggle, growls ripping through the air. Jungkook fought like he had something to prove, like he was defending something that went far beyond just you being a witch in their territory.
Because this wasn’t just about the pack anymore.
It was about you.
And though Jungkook wasn’t ready to admit it—to himself or to anyone else—he wouldn’t let anyone talk to his mate like that.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
Jungkook barely had time to process his own fury before he was moving. His body acted before his mind could catch up, instincts taking over in a single, explosive movement.
One second, he was standing between you and Hoseok, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles ached. The next, he lunged.
The impact was immediate—bone and muscle colliding with raw force. They hit the ground hard, rolling through the dirt as the force of Jungkook’s tackle sent them skidding across the clearing. A snarl tore from Jungkook’s throat, his wolf dangerously close to the surface.
Hoseok wasn’t weak. He recovered quickly, twisting his body mid-roll to break free from Jungkook’s grip, and in the next heartbeat, he retaliated.
A fist shot out, catching Jungkook just under the ribs, but it wasn’t enough to make him back down. If anything, it only made him more determined.
Jungkook shoved back, hard, knocking Hoseok onto his back before pinning him down with a knee to his chest. His breath came heavy, his heart pounding in his ears, but he barely noticed.
"You don’t get to talk about her like that," he growled, voice rough with warning.
Hoseok scoffed beneath him, gritting his teeth as he struggled against Jungkook’s hold. "So that’s what this is about?" he spat. "Not the pack, not the safety of our people—just her?"
Jungkook’s grip tightened, fingers curling into the fabric of Hoseok’s shirt. "She saved us," he bit out, his tone lethal. "She saved Namjoon. She saved me. And you still act like she’s the enemy."
Hoseok’s eyes flashed, his own anger simmering beneath the surface. "She’s a witch," he snapped. "You don’t just forget centuries of bloodshed because of one act of kindness."
Jungkook’s jaw clenched so tightly it ached. "And you don’t blame someone for things they didn’t do."
A tense silence stretched between them, their harsh breaths the only sound in the air. The pack house wasn’t far—others would have heard the commotion by now. But neither of them moved, neither willing to be the first to back down.
Then, out of the corner of his eye, Jungkook saw you take a small step forward. You weren’t afraid, not of him, not of Hoseok. But there was something in your expression—something wary, something uncertain.
And it made Jungkook’s fury deepen.
Because you shouldn’t have to look at his pack like that. You shouldn’t have to defend yourself every time you turned around.
His fingers twitched against Hoseok’s collar, but he forced himself to release his grip, shoving himself back just enough to let the other man breathe. Hoseok coughed, rubbing his chest as he sat up, but his glare didn’t waver.
"She doesn’t belong here," he said, his voice lower now, but just as sharp.
Jungkook’s hands curled into fists at his sides. "She belongs wherever she wants to be," he said firmly. "And if she chooses to be here, then that’s her choice. Not yours."
For a long moment, Hoseok didn’t reply. He only stared at Jungkook, then at you, as if weighing something unspoken. Then, with a heavy exhale, he pushed himself to his feet.
"This isn’t over," he muttered, brushing dirt from his clothes.
Jungkook didn’t look away. "It is for now," he said, voice cold.
Hoseok cast one last glance between the two of you before turning on his heel and walking off, his posture stiff with lingering tension.
The second he was gone, the air between you and Jungkook shifted.
His shoulders were still taut, his body wound too tight, but when he turned to look at you, something softened in his expression.
"Are you alright?" he asked, his voice quieter now, rough around the edges.
You blinked, caught off guard. "I—yes," you said slowly. "You didn’t have to do that, you know."
Jungkook exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. "Yes, I did."
You studied him for a long moment, something unreadable passing through your eyes. He was still tense, shoulders squared, fists flexing at his sides like he wasn’t quite ready to let go of the fight.
Your gaze flickered down to where Hoseok had landed a solid punch just under his ribs. A faint shadow of pain crossed his face before he schooled his features again.
"Are you alright?" you asked, tilting your head slightly. "That hit looked like it hurt."
Jungkook scoffed, shifting his weight. "It’s nothing."
You frowned. "That’s not an answer."
His lips twitched, but when you stepped forward, reaching a careful hand toward his side, he stiffened. Not because he didn’t want you close—but because the moment your fingers brushed his shirt, something in him nearly unraveled.
"Should I take a look at it?" you asked, voice softer now. "Just to make sure it won’t bruise too badly?"
Jungkook swallowed, throat bobbing. He should say no. He knew he should. But you were standing so close, the scent of lavender and something warm filling the space between you, and for some reason, he didn’t want to move away.
He wanted to say yes.
And that terrified him.
But before he could answer, the sound of footsteps broke the moment, distant but approaching. His jaw clenched as he turned his head, knowing it was probably another member of the pack coming to check on the fight.
You took a small step back, hands dropping to your sides.
"Later, then," you murmured.
Jungkook wasn’t sure if you meant the check-up or something else entirely.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
Jungkook barely had a moment to catch his breath before another set of hurried footsteps approached. A younger wolf, barely past his first shift, skidded to a stop in front of them, panting.
"Jungkook," the boy gasped, eyes darting between you and the beta. "Alpha Namjoon needs you. Now."
Jungkook’s entire body tensed. "What happened?"
The boy hesitated, glancing at you, before lowering his voice. "There’s been movement near the eastern border. Strangers. We don’t know if they’re hunters or rogues, but Namjoon wants you there."
A growl rumbled deep in Jungkook’s chest. His instincts screamed at him to stay—to keep you within reach, where he knew you were safe—but the pack came first. And if there was a threat near their borders, he couldn’t ignore it.
His gaze snapped to you, his brow furrowed in hesitation. "You go stay with Jin," he ordered, voice rough. "Don’t go anywhere until I get back."
You sighed, offering a small, reassuring smile. "I’ll be fine, Jungkook. It’s just for a moment."
He didn’t look convinced.
You stepped closer to Jungkook, voice lowering. "Really, go. Your pack needs you. I’ll be right here with Jin when you get back."
Jungkook’s jaw clenched. His wolf didn’t like this—not one bit. But he forced himself to nod, eyes lingering on you for a second longer before turning away.
The moment he disappeared into the trees, you went to find Jin. It didn’t take long for you to find him and tell him why you were without Jungkook.
"You know," Jin mused, leaning lazily against a tree. "I think that might be the first time for Jungkook to hesitate to follow an order."
You crossed your arms, rolling your eyes. "He’s just protective."
Jin hummed, looking at you with a knowing glint in his eyes. "Oh, sweetheart. That’s not just protection. That’s something else entirely."
You opened your mouth to argue—but then closed it again. Because deep down, you knew Jin wasn’t wrong.
And that realization was almost as terrifying as the thought of Jungkook being forced away from you.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦
The minutes stretched longer than you expected. Jungkook still wasn’t back, and though you weren’t worried for your safety, you couldn’t shake the unease creeping in. Jin, ever the social one, kept you occupied with stories about the pack and his long-standing friendship with both Jungkook and Namjoon.
“You know, Jungkook wasn’t always the brooding, silent type,” Jin mused, leaning against a tree. “When we were younger, he was the first to pick fights, but not out of aggression. It was just his way of proving himself. Namjoon always had to drag him out of trouble.”
You smiled faintly, picturing a younger Jungkook, all wild energy and untamed defiance. “And you? Were you the responsible one?”
Jin scoffed. “Me? Absolutely not. I just had the best excuses to get us out of trouble.” He smirked, then his expression softened. “Jungkook’s loyalty is fierce, though. If you have him on your side, he’ll never let anything happen to you.”
You hesitated. “I know.”
Jin watched you for a moment before changing the subject. “Hoseok, by the way? I have a theory about why he’s been so difficult with you.”
You raised an eyebrow. “Enlighten me.”
Jin chuckled. “He doesn’t trust outsiders, sure. But it’s more than that. He thinks you’re going to take Jungkook from the pack.”
You blinked. “What?”
“He sees how Jungkook looks at you,” Jin continued, voice casual but sharp with meaning. “Even if Jungkook doesn’t realize it yet, Hoseok does. And he’s scared of what that means.”
Your lips parted, a denial forming, but before you could say anything—
A sharp whistle tore through the air.
Then, chaos erupted.
Shouts and growls filled the village as figures clad in dark clothing emerged from the tree line. Hunters. Again.
Your stomach lurched. Jin’s posture changed instantly, his easygoing demeanor vanishing as he grabbed your wrist. “Stay close.”
Chaos erupted almost instantly. The pack members still recovering from the last attack scrambled to evacuate the children and elderly while others shifted mid-run, lunging toward their attackers.
You nodded, but already, your thoughts raced. Not because you feared for yourself—you could handle this. But because Jungkook wasn’t here. If he were, you’d at least know he was safe.
The battle broke out in full force. Wolves, still recovering from the last attack, fought through their injuries to defend their home. Children were ushered away, their cries blending with the clashing of steel and snarls of wolves mid-shift.
You moved quickly, helping where you could. Spells left your lips, defensive barriers flashing to life, potions thrown to heal the wounded. Jin fought beside you, sharp and ruthless.
Then, in the chaos, you lost him.
You turned sharply, searching, but before you could find him, movement caught your eye. A hunter—a man clad in dark leathers, blade gleaming—rushed toward a small girl with pigtails, frozen in fear.
You didn’t think. You moved.
One hand grabbed the child, the other reaching into your pouch. As the hunter’s blade swung down, you twisted, pulling the girl with you, and hurled a vial of shimmering powder at the attacker’s face.
He screamed, clawing at his eyes, stumbling back in agony barely missing you.
But before you could react further, the unmistakable sound of crystals shattering on stone sent a cold dread through you.
Two glimmering stones landed behind you, their shards glowing faintly.
Binding Crystals.
A barrier flared to life, sealing you inside a confined space—cut off from the rest of the pack.
Two hunters were with you.
"Looks like we caught ourselves a little witch," one sneered.
You exhaled slowly, grounding yourself. "Stay exactly where you are," you murmured to the girl. "And close your eyes."
The hunters chuckled. "You don’t seem to understand your situation."
A small smile curved your lips as you reached into your pouch once more. "No," you said calmly, pulling out another vial, this one filled with a thick, black inky liquid.
"You don’t understand yours."
With a flick of your wrist, you uncorked the vial.
Black smoke poured out instantly, thick and unnatural, swallowing the space whole. The hunters cursed, stumbling back as the darkness consumed everything in its path.
And then—
Jungkook arrived.
He and his patrol burst onto the scene just in time to see the last of you disappear into the smoke.
Not one, but two hunters with you.
Rage, cold and absolute, filled him.
"No."
Without thinking, he lunged toward the barrier—only to be thrown back violently, skidding across the ground as the magic repelled him.
"No!" His roar shook the trees, his wolf raging against his skin, furious and desperate.
You were gone.
And he couldn’t reach you.
✦•······················•✦•······················•✦ Part 2
@somehowukook
