Thread by @snowygukkie

#Taekook || Mismatched Pieces

Taehyung never felt like he belonged due to missing a Daemon. Imagine his surprise when long arms grabbed him through a portal & plopped him into the lap of an idol.

Jungkook was too special due to having 2 Daemons.

Maybe they needed each other

-Please QUOTE and do NOT reply to the thread so it doesn’t break 🥺
-Main Ship: TaeKook
-Other Ships: NamJin (and maybe YoonMin or SopeMin)
-Daemons are spiritual animals. Just roll with it
-Crack, Fluff, Light Angst, and all that fun stuff
-Maybe cursing
-Might add more tags

~

Taehyung crouched in the ground. He gently stroked the cat, who purred in content

Taehyung giggled and gave a bright smile to his grandparents

His grandpa chuckled while a fond light sparkled in his grandma’s eyes

The tiny bird perched on his grandfather’s shoulders chirped

a greeting. The young boy squealed in delight and made grabby motions with his hands

Taehyung was young, but already was such a bright light in the dim world

He was too young to understand the weight of the situation

Taehyung’s eyes were filled in so much boy that it

stood out in the boring, white walls of the hospital

The grandparents exchanged looks. They tried to hide their fear and worries, but it was just so hard. They were terrified about the news that they might receive... and how it could affect their beloved grandson

They could only hope for the best

The young boy stumbled as it tried to grab for the little songbird. The bird shrilled in shock and hopped on top of Taehyung’s head. It fiercely began to peck Taehyung’s head as a scolding

After all, what if its feathers were picked out?!

Taehyung gave a startled scream at the sudden pain. Tears sprung in his eyes. What did he do wrong!?

His grandmother cooed over him and gently picked Taehyung up.

The bird fluttered off of Taehyung’s hair and settled on its usual perch.

The cat on the floor gave a loud meow

“Sweetheart, did you know what you just did?” the grandma softly murmured. Taehyung gave small, silent sobs in response

“No! What did I do?!” Tae quietly wailed as his grandmother gave a comforting embrace

“Well, you were bothering your grandfather’s Daemon. You could’ve easily

injured it,” his grandmother answers gently.

Taehyung’s big, brown eyes stared at his grandmother in confusion

“Daemons? What are those?” Taehyung whispered in confusion as he tilted his head at the word he has never heard of before

His grandmother gave him a quizzical look. “Sweetie, do you not know what Daemons are?”

Taehyung gave a harsh shake for no. He hasn’t heard of the term before

Taehyung’s grandmother gave a loud hum as she tried to explain the complicated process in simple words

“Think of them like little spiritual animals. They are the physical embodiment of your emotions,” Tae’s grandmother tried to explain. Tae tilted his head in puzzlement

“So they aren’t pets?” Taehyung innocently asked. At those words, the cat gave an angry meow and the bird

preened in anger. Calling THEM mere pets? The offense!

Tae’s grandmother chuckled as she felt the indignant pets’ feelings through their bond. She could immediately hear her cat’s disgruntled complaints

From her husband’s laughs, the bird was also complaining

“No, they aren’t pets, Tae. They are so much more than that. They are precious things that you must cherish and love, alright? After all, a normal pet is to love and cherish, sure. But can a normal pet TALK with you?” Tae’s grandmother asked

The loud gasp and the wide eyes were just too adorable. It made her giggle

“Really?” Taehyung asked with a shocked surprise expression

Tae’s grandma gave an amused smile and nodded.

“You have a special bond with your Daemon, Tae. They represent who you are and your emotions.

They are special things. They are like the compass to who you are,” she explained gently

Taehyung gave a boxy smile in joy. This was so interesting! Does that mean their pets were actually pets, or were they secretly Daemons as well?

When or where can he get one?

His grandma fondly smiled at Taehyung’s excited question he blurted out and gently lifted the boy up and into her lap

She kissed him on the forehead

“Be patient, my child,” she whispered her grandson. “You will get yours soon.”

“But I want one nooooow!” Taehyung pouted

“Just be honest. Tae, you won’t get one for a long time so stop whining,” Tae’s grandpa grunted and his bird face a loud chirp in agreement

“Graaaandmmmaaa!” Taehyung whined and the elder kissed him all over the face as a distraction

“Aaaah, stop it!” Taehyung cried loudly

He was peppered in kisses and squirmed to escape

The young boy tumbled out of his grandma’s clutches with a big pout on his lips

The cat on the floor meowed at him for attention. Taehyung, forgetting his moodiness, giggled as he pet the cat

“When’s mom going to be done?” Tae

asked curious

The blood drained with his grandparent’s faces and they exchanged looks. The reason why they were all here hung over them like a dark cloud

“Did something happen to Chips?” Taehyung asked again, trying to recall what happened before they arrived st the hospital

The only thing Taehyung remembered was loud honking, a thud, screaming as his mother passing out in pure pain, and his grandparents picking him up and holding him tightly

After that, it was all a blur

“How about mom? Is she okay?” Taehyung hummed thoughtfully

If he could, he would give his mom some flowers right now. That would probably cheer her up!

Taehyung was so immersed in his own thoughts and questions that his grandparents were simply speechless about what to do

Finally, after what it seemed forever, there was a door break

A lady in white exited the doors with a cold poker face.

“One of you, follow me,” she said curtly.

Tae’s grandparents exchanged looks whole Taehyung excitedly exclaimed he wanted to do

“I’ll be right back, sweetheart,” Tae’s grandma said and sat up. Her husband gave her an

encouraging smile. Her Daemon brushed up against her legs as they entered the white rooms

There was a tense silence afterwards, but the oblivious Taehyung wouldn’t know in the first place

Tae’s grandpa clenched his fists tightly. His bird chirped sadly and gently nudged him

He was so worried about his daughter-in-law and her Daemon

If worst case scenario did happened...

He looked st the young boy who smiled so brightly

That smile didn’t deserve to be taken away if his mother returns as an empty shell of her former self

He could only hope

However, he quickly found out that all his hopes were in vain when his white returned with puffy, red eyes and an empty smile

His heart broke and he picked up Taehyung. The boy squeaked at the sudden affection, but the grandpa only held tighter

His poor only grandson

It was already a loss in the world to lose your own Daemon... but the consequences of that was well known. With a Daemon’s departure, the soul of their chosen also leaves with it. And so, only an wmptg body rains

And so, he mourned

He mourned for Chip, the literal dog Daemon. He mourned for his daughter-in-law. He mourned for his poor grandson

Life was unfair. And this was only one example of that exactly lesson thar Taehyung would learn many times to come

~~~

“Hey, what type of Daemon do you think I will get?” Taehyung cheerfully asked his best friend.

Bogum gave him a small smile and ruffled his hair

“Don’t worry about it yet.”

Taehyung pouted at the older

“I want to know nooooooow! You already have yours!” Tae complained

After all, Bogum already had a little white, spotted puppy trailing after him everywhere

“Well, Tae, I just got mine particularly very fast. You know how it usually goes,” Tae’s neighbor pointed out, but Tae simply groaned loudly at those words

Don’t remind him!

“Yeah, yeah. When I am around 8-10, my blob will form. When I’m going through puberty, that’s typically when my Daemon will appear. I know all about it! But I’m already almost 10! And YOU had your Daemon when you were 6! That isn’t fair!” Taehyung whined into his pillow

His childhood friend gave a small smile tinged with sympathy. He understood why Taehyung felt so anxious. After all, everyone else in their class already had their blob. Taehyung was still waiting and time was running out

Taehyung was worried. The younger won’t say it

outloud, but you could see it in his eyes. However... Bogum didn’t have the heart to tell Taehyung that he would get his Daemon soon

For some reason, the words wouldn’t leave his lips and just say on his tongue

In the end, the older just tried to distract his best friend

A sad Taehyung was a heartbreaking Taehyung

Bogum was probably overthinking it. After all, everyone had a Daemon. It was like saying that there was the sun in space or the cloud in the sky. It was a simply fact of life

Taehyung would have a Daemon in the end. It would be fine

His puppy gave a small whined and nudged Bogum. The older gave a small smile at pet the dog

Yeah. It’s all going to be fine.

However, those words he kept telling himself would become a lie to his own ears when he would see Taehyung’s bloodshot eyes everyday

He knew about the doctor appointments that dragged the younger to simply see what was WRONG with him. That left a bitter taste in Bogum’s mouth

There was nothing wrong with Taehyung

However, it didn’t chance the fact that Taehyung - already 13 years old - still didn’t have a

blob, much less a formed Daemon

Taehyung was an anomaly

And unfortunately, kids and parents were both cruel. They would say horrible things to the boy that had a huge boxy smile and eyes full of life.

Why? Why would you do that?

Bogum could only comfort the younger and

stay by his side.

If Bogum had to be Taehyung’s only friend, that was fine with him. He would rather stay together with the boy that held so much life in a fragile heart, rather than see the remains of that heart be smashed to more pieces

There were days when Taehyung would come over to his house. It wasn’t red eyes after crying or worrying all night about Daemon issues

Those were the bad days, but there were worse

When you say Taehyung with dead eyes, you know

That’s why Bogum resolved to be Taehyung’s best friend until he could make more friends. After all, Taehyung was his little brother to him. And no one hurts his family

Bogum could only try to hold the pieces of Taehyung together. When his mother and Daemon problems

overwhelmed the other, Bogum would keep him close

And sometimes wonder

Why only only people, but why was the world also so cruel? Taehyung... he deserved happiness more than anyone else. Yet even this, he would never get.

And it was just so heartbreaking to see

(Note: Honestly, I don’t really know Park Bogum that well, so he’s probably out of character and I’m sorry. 😭 But I also want to include him in this story as a good guy since so many ffs that I’ve read have him as a bad guy??? But his friendship w/ Tae and the rest is amazing!)

~~~~

“Look at the boy. He’s something special, I tell ya!” a man Jungkook didn’t know boasted loudly

Jungkook gave a nervous smile as he squeezed his mom’s hand nervously

He was terrified

“I know, I know! I taught him everything he knows!” his teacher gleefully exclaimed

That was a lie, Jungkook bitterly thought. She did nothing but ridicule him and go on her phone. If anything, his older classmates were much better teachers than she was

But he stayed silent

He didn’t want to draw anymore attention to himself

“You are doing great, sweetie,”

Jungkook’s mother whispered in his ear quietly

Jungkook could feel nerves tremble all over his body

He was only 7. Yet, here he was - being judged by a panel of people he didn’t even know

Simply because he had a lot of “talent”

Jungkook wanted to laugh

He was just doing this stuff for fun - swimming, shooting hoops, drawing, and all that fun stuff. It was just something to be a normal kid

Yet, he can’t even do that without being fawned over as if he was a trophy to present rather than a child

Jungkook hates these adults. They understood nothing

Jungkook wanted to runaway from it all, but he could see the hopeful look in his mother’s eyes all the time. It would make her deep bags go away and her face seem more youthful

So he stayed and did whatever these adults

wanted from him. He would paint, compete, practice, and more

He would win medals over and over again, but at the end, they all amounted to a cold metal against his chest

But if the money and recognization made his mom a little more happy, he would do it all

But that doesn’t

mean he would be happy about it either.

After all, now they were taking away one of his passions. Dancing.

That was one of his only outlets of freedom, but this, too, was being taken away from him

Jungkook could only stand and smile while everything he loved was burning away

He would just give that shy smile and pretend to glow at their compliments and fake words

Everything was fine

After all, he was the “prodigy.” He was “perfect.”

What perfect person needs interests and loves anyways when others can use it for their own gain

It was a cycle that would continue over and over again...

Jungkook was only 7 when everyone else around him twisted his talents into something to gain from

~~~~

“Wow! Figures, someone like him would have TWO! And at only 10! He’s soooo amazing!” a girl squealed

People whispered around him and Jungkook tightened his arms around him

“Beep boop!” TATA chirped loudly. Cooky gave a sleepy yawned as it stumbled behind Jungkook

The awe was understandable, after all

The idea that someone had TWO Daemons? Both that formed before puberty!

How unheard of!

Jungkook knew that some people were calling it a “miracle”

How ridiculous

“Of course JUNGKOOK would have one,” a kid scoffed loudly. “It’s Mr. Perfect after all.”

Jungkook felt a sting in his eyes, but tried to pretend the words didn’t matter

He somehow was put on this pedestal by everyone else and he genuinely didn’t know how he got there

Jungkook just wanted to be a normal kid again. He wanted to hang out with friends and laugh like it was any other day. He didn’t want to worry about completions or drama or

even interviews!

Jeon Jungkook was barely 10 when his name reached all parts of Korea and even hit global news

It was a worldwide sensation

The young, talented prodigy who had two Daemons

People called him a blessed child. Lucky

Daemons were associated with the idea of

angels. The fact that Jungkook has two - well, some people even went on to say he was a reincarnation of God

It was ridiculous. Crazy. Jungkook wasn’t anything special. He was just... a kid. He was just Jungkook

He wanted to just be Jungkook - not this perfect miracle child

Even his own mother was wrapped up in all of this drama. It was crazy. Absurd

Jungkook could hardly any of this. He felt alone and so empty

In the end, he took to music to express how he felt. He stumbled upon harsh words of raps that told stories that hit too close to home

He listened to songs that echoed his loneliness and desire of hope

By fate, he stumbled upon an underground artist - RM formerly known as Rap Monster

It was a name that most people around him would be appalled at

Which made Jungkook appreciate it even more

The moment that Jungkook listened to RM’s track... he knew it in his very bones

He had to meet this person. He needed to do something he has always wanted to do, but was too afraid to actually do so

Jungkook dropped out of all his sport and art stuff, much to everyone’s

confusion

Jungkook’s mother had a breakdown, begging him to go back and stay

For the first time, Jungkook refused. He knew it wasn’t just for himself. It was for his mother who used to be the kindest lady, who was now reduced to this

This prodigy stuff affected both of them

It didn’t end there, however

The next day, Jungkook signed up to audition for BigHit

This was his own destiny. He was going to make it so

However, even when diving and performing and surrounded by the most wonderful family, spending still felt... missing

He felt empty inside

even when singing*

~~~

[11 Years Later]

Taehyung tilted his head back with a giggle and poked Bogum’s cheek

His best friend rolled his eyes at Tae’s attitude, but decided to indulge to other

After all, Taehyung’s smile was growing rarer lately. Any smile of Taehyung’s deserves to be treasured

“Park Boooogguuuum!” Taehyung whined as Bogum flipped a script in his hands

He hummed in acknowledgement of Taehyung’s whines as he glanced over the words

“Yeah?”

Taehyung pouted and he poked Bogum’s cheeks again

“You promised me we would hang out today!”

“We are though?” a puzzled Bogum replied as he tried to recite his lines in his head

Taehyung sighed and gave up in defeat as he flopped onto the couch

It was weird to have a famous best friend sometimes. Most of the time, Taehyung brushed it off

After all, most people didn’t really care about him. They know the two are childhood friends, but everyone is much more interested in the juicy gossip with the celebrities around Bogum

And Tae was fine with that. It allowed him to fade away into the shadows a lot more

However, that didn’t change the fact that Bogum was so much more BUSY nowadays

Taehyung was lonely

He thrived on social contact and daily cuddles. Taehyung was a loud, sociable creature, after all. He was friendly and just barreled into your life. Bogum jokingly called it the

“Taehyung Effect” into reference to when Taehyung’s dragged him into one of his “adventures” to find his Grandma’s dog when they first met. Let’s just say that some chickens ran loose, a room was filled with papayas, and some fallen curtains were glued with gum

There was something special about Taehyung, but the thing was, was that no one WANTED to be his friend

After all...

The thought trailed off darkly as a pant of jealously rang true when Taehyung glanced at his best friend’s Daemon

No one wanted to be friends with the person who

didn’t have a Daemon. In which something was probably “wrong” with him. Everyone said that. Even the doctors, though they didn’t know what

Taehyung was probably just broken then, he thought bitterly with a grimace. That was the only explanation

At least though, the lack of

friendships allowed Taehyung to excel in both his studies and his passions. His photography and paintings were well-acclaimed by local experts. Vante.

It was a mask to hide behind, but it never changed the feeling of joy to hear someone else’s compliments about his works

Whenever Bogum was busy Taehyung simply painted and phographed to his hearts content. It took his mind off stuff

But Taehyung was still lonely. He felt bad - like he was clinging to Bogum - but he missed the latter. And they were supposed to be spending quality time together

The male silently moped as Bogum sat up suddenly. His phone was buzzing and the actor rushed to answer his phone

Taehyung groaned. It was the dreaded emergency phone call

Looks like Bogum was leaving... again...

Taehyung sighed as he turned on the television

There was a news clip about BTS having another sold-out concert, but Taehyung quickly changed the channel to something more fun

There was a documentary about penguins that were just too adorable to skip over, so Tae stopped flipping channels

The budding artist fiddled with his pencil and his sketch pad. He was going to ask Bogum for some ideas for his upcoming exhibition in a few months, but that was now out of the question. Based off their usual routine, in a new minutes, his best friend would arrive and apologize

about some emergency coming up before dashing away

Taehyung wasn’t upset, of course. But he simply missed Bogum...

As if sensing his lonely thoughts, Bogum’s white spotted Daemon jumped onto his lap and scattered all his stuff. The large dog gave a loud yelp and covered

Taehyung’s face in kisses. The college student giggled, feeling just a bit less lonely now

Taehyung hugged the dog tightly, feeling a tingling feeling thanks to the contact

At moments like this, Taehyung was so thankful for Daemons

Daemons are literally manifestation of the soul. Touching one’s Daemon was only meant for the closest people in the world because it was such a sacred act

It wasn’t unheard of to hear about married couples who haven’t touched their Daemons even after years of their marriage

By touching a Daemon, you could feel the emotions from the Daemon as a representation of their owner. Whenever Taehyung touched Bogum’s Bomi, he could feel the tingles of love through the fur. It resonated in the deepest parts of Taehyung

It felt like family

Due to his strangeness, touching someone’s Daemon was once in a blue moon. It was such an amazing feeling though, so Taehyung was thankful that Bogum didn’t particularly mind

The dog gave a loud bark when it noticed that Taehyung was too distracted in his emotions

Taehyung gave a small smile in thanks and petted the Daemon. The dog have Taehyung one more lick on his cheeks, before jumping off of the couch

The dog leaped to the door and gave a loud bark at its owner

Bogum have Taehyung a guilty, tired smile

Taehyung understood immediately and plastered a fake smile

“What is it this time?” Taehyung curiosity asked

“Impromptu interview. A friend of mine couldn’t make it so they are asking if I could replace them. I am really sorry, Tae. Can we-?”

“Don’t ask!” Taehyung cut his best

friend off. “Now get out there and show the world who Park Bogum is! Good luck!”

“Thanks Tae!” Bogum smiled, before rushing off to who-knows-where

Taehyung gave his best friend a happy wave until the door shut close. His smile fell off and Taehyung sagged in the couch

He was alone once again

~~~

“Run it through again!” Hoseok called out with a really serious face

Namjoon and Seokjin gave each other equal looks of horror. Both of them were sagged on the floor, looking rather dead - much to Jungkook’s amusement

Though Yoongi was no better

either. However, his lovesick eyes towards Hoseok sang a very different tune

The only one who seemed to have a lot of energy was Jimin. The dancer looked ready enough to do the song 10 more times, despite having already been 2 hours of pure practice and rehearsal

Mang stood beside Hoseok and nodded its blue head, agreeing with its owner for more practice

Jungkook was unable to understand how people had so much energy. Even Cooky was tired! The same bunny that once sprinted from one side of Seoul to the other out of pure competitiveness

The other Daemons have all given up on practice and were all doing their own things. Koya was snoring very loudly while RJ was sipping some tea. Shooky was speedily writing stuff down - probably had a creative epiphany. Chinny was practicing with its owner and Cooky was tired

“My arms are going to fall off if I move!” bemoaned an exhausted Jin. The oldest was spread out on the floor, looking exhausted

Namjoon was nodding his head in agreement, but turned sheepish when Hoseok side-eyed him. Hoseok gave Namjoon a meaningful look

The leader of BTS sighed in reluctance, but plastered on a smile

“C’mon guys! We can all do this! Let’s run this over one more time before our interview. We need this in the best shape possible for our concert in a few days!” Namjoon called and tried to rile up everyone

Seokjin groaned, but stood up and got into position. RJ and Chimmy cheered for their owners from their spot next to the wall.

Koya gave a loud snore.

Jungkook also got into position, but tugged on Namjoon’s shirt.

“Hyung, what interview?” Jungkook asked curiously

Namjoon shrugged. “It’s just going to be with some magazine. I know we are going to be in the cover and the questions are going to be the usual ones, according to the managers. It won’t be that bad. Hopefully, we can get back in time for dinner,” Namjoon explained

Jungkook gave a nervous nod as settled into dancing position

“Go, go, go, Jungkook!” Cooky roared loudly. The Daemon sounded like a little kid who got their hands on too much sugar from the sheer enthusiasm, but Jungkook smiled at his bunny Daemon

However, the smile fell when

he noticed that something was very off.

“Where’s TATA?” Jungkook questioned as he looked around the practice room

The heart-shaped Daemon was nowhere to be found

“Oh, I think it said it wanted to explore a bit,” Jimin said cheerfully

A pang stabbed at Jungkook’s heart as he gave Jimin a twisted smile

“Thanks for telling me!” Jungkook tried to say in an upbeat tone, but his delivering fell flat

Jimin gave Jungkook a strange look, but, fortunately, Hoseok interrupted them

“1, 2, 3!” Hoseok called before the

music started. Everyone immediately began to dance

In all honesty, Jungkook was jealous of Jimin

Daemons... they were strange things. There were a manifestation of your own soul and were basically sacred. Daemons, interestingly enough, could even talk if they wanted to

However, TATA... was different

Jungkook simply couldn’t understand the strange alien language exiting the Daemon’s language.

Considering that they were together for many years, Jungkook had a somewhat decent understanding, but it was hard

For some reason, Jimin had a simply talent for understand TATA and Jungkook could not get why

After all, as Jungkook’s Daemon, TATA should be understandable for Jungkook. Yet, this was certainly not the case

Some fans joked that TATA is so out of this world to the point

that Jungkook couldn’t even understand his own Daemon

It was all meant in good fun and all, but those fans have a good point

It didn’t make sense that Jungkook couldn’t understand his OWN Daemon, but that was exactly the situation

Sometimes, in the inner recesses of Jungkook’s mind, he felt that TATA belong to Jimin instead

Jungkook loves TATA. Don’t get him wrong. It’s just... Jungkook didn’t understand why he felt so bonded with Cooky and something just felt missing with TATA

Why was that?

Some of his doctors thought that it was a side effect of having multiply Daemons. Maybe the soul couldn’t handle having multiple Daemons and this strange connection was an example of a side effect

Jungkook didn’t know. Maybe... this is just how it is supposed to be? Is that it?

“Jungkook! You missed a step!” Hoseok remarked sharply. Jungkook winced.

“Sorry, hyung!” Jungkook answered as he jumped back into the correct position.

“1, 2, 3, 4, 5!” Hoseok repeated after each movement with a dead serious look

This wasn’t the time and place to think about

Daemons and souls and stuff like that

Jungkook pushes that all out of his mind as the music hummed in his brain

At least, here, he found a family

This was his own path he carved out himself. He shouldn’t let these thoughts get too much to him.

Sure, having two Daemons made him... different. But here, he was a part of BTS. A family.

He wasn’t any special than his brothers here. They didn’t treat him any differently either.

...or at least, that’s what was supposed to happen

Jungkook tried to give a smile, but it felt more bitter as he stared at the interviewer

He could feel Namjoon grip his shoulder tightly. His leader was deadly calm, but in that calm was a silent fury

Jimin was silently vibrating in his seat. Hoseok had a dangerous glint in

his eyes. The usual sunshines on either side of Jungkook were angry. The maknae could sense that very strongly.

Jungkook didn’t want to imagine how Seokjin and Yoongi were reacting, but it likely wasn’t any prettier

“Jungkook said he didn’t want to talk about this anymore.

Don’t you bother to have any manners to know when to shut up?” Yoongi drawled lazily. The shorter stretched and gave off an aura of laziness that disguised short words.

There were snarling noises behind Jungkook. That was Shooky. The cookie was prone to fights easily

despite its tiny size

This was no different

Cooky snuggled deeper into Jungkook’s arms, as if it could escape the questions and cameras that way.

TATA was extending its arms and wrapped it around Jungkook tightly. TATA was scared and uncomfortable, he knew immediately

That was understandable. After all, Jungkook was feel very uncomfortable at that very moment and wish he could avoid this interview all together

It was supposed to be a normal interview on live television. It is supppsed to promote their upcoming concerts.

However, this interviewer was twisting the questions to suite the gossip she greatly desired

Or, to be more exact, gossip about Jungkook’s two Daemons

“I can’t possibly understand why you guys don’t want to talk about this topic!” the interviewer smiled and giggled.

Jungkook didn’t recognize her. She was probably new.

He could see the mixed reactions from the crew. Some were torn between stopping the interview - fearing the repercussions from BigHit - but others desired to keep it running. After all, this could make big headlines

People were twisted sometimes. Jungkook hated the spotlight. Well, that was a lie. He hated the spotlight when it wasn’t talking about his biggest prides: his performances or his BTS family

This interviewer, however, was straying far from either of those. She was walking the

line of being very excited and just plain rude. She might also just be very oblivious

Whatever the case, Jungkook hated being asked about his Daemons

It reminded him of life before BTS. Life with the fame, pressures, and cruel words

The interviewer continued, oblivious to the sharp stares from the rest of BTS...

“I mean, imagine having TWO Daemons! That is an idea of legend! It is the equivalent of being a God in some countries,” the interviewer beamed happily and clasped her hands together

This entire conversation was making Jungkook sick.

“In other countries, such as Korea, it is viewed as being blessed with luck, happiness, beauty, talents, fame... Oh my! You are an exact representation of this! That is so amazing! What is it like to be so special and blessed?”

Was it rude to throw up in the middle of an interview? Running out in the middle wasn’t good either. If anything, it would give the station the exact attention it wanted

Jungkook could picture the headlines already: JUNGKOOK FROM BTS RUNS AWAY FROM AN INTERVIEW

Jungkook didn’t want to give them anything that they desired. Jungkook simply gave a fake smile and replied, “I am no different than anyone else. If anything, having TATA and Cooky didn’t magically make myself or BTS successful. We worked from the bottom and up. That’s it.

I am the same as everyone else. If anything, BTS and ARMY are my real good luck charms.”

Jungkook could feel a reassuring squeeze from Namjoon

“I agree! ARMYs are the real reason why we are here today. It is thanks to all their support! We love you all!” Jimin happily chimed in

“If anything, my handsome looks are the real good luck chants in this group!” Seokjin declared loudly and gave a kiss towards the camera

The members groaned and laugh at Jin’s remark. The previous questions about Jungkook Daemons faded into the background

Yeah, he belonged here

~

Taehyung definitely didn’t belong here. He felt sick. He wanted to throw up.

He could see his fellow classmates give him a strange look and the male plastered a fake smile on his face

It’s fine. It’s fine.

Taehyung just wanted them to stop looking at him

He could feel the curious looks of their Daemons as well

It felt mocking, especially with the writing on the white board

Their next assignment was going to be about Daemons

Fate was too cruel sometimes.

These were art classes. His haven. His favorite part of life.

Yet even this, he could not have. How was that even fair!?

Taehyung wanted to groan into his arms, but simply sat in his chair quietly

Each minute ticking by was one more minute closer to freedom

The college student glanced quickly at the whiteboard again as his teacher

continued to lecture about the details of the assignment

DAEMONS - Photograph your interpretation of them and how they influenced their life

Taehyung wanted to tear his hair out at those mocking words

His art teacher pulled him aside yesterday and wanted him that for his

upcoming exhibition, she wanted him to combine both art with his photography classes. It was to help his creativity, but in all honesty, he could hardly think of a good idea

His view of Daemons were rather negative. He used to adore them, but only the sting of loneliness and

jealousy lingered. That only made for a rather depressing exhibition

Daemons were always viewed in such a positive light and Taehyung felt bad for possibly tainting such a thing

So what should he possibly do?

The art major frowned as he doodled hearts and adorable bunnies on

his paper

His exhibition needed to be PERFECT. His scholarship was RESTING on that exact word.

Daemons.

Taehyung groaned. Could the very thing he lacked lead to his downfall?

“Looks like the weirdo is at a loss,” a person mockingly whispered behind Taehyung

It was loud enough for everyone in this back of the classroom burst into mocking laughter

The Daemons made their own unique giggles along with their owners, making it a mixture of both human and animal sounds

Taehyung felt a sting in his eyes, but took a deep breath

It was fine. Some people were just jerks. It wasn’t a big deal

It didn’t matter that they were making fun of him for not having a Daemon. It was fine. He wasn’t a weird, no matter what they said

(He wasn’t fine. And maybe they were right about how weird he was)

The bell rang loudly and Taehyung jumped up. He shoved his notebooks into his back and fled the classroom, trying to put their mocking laughing behind him

He could hear his teacher yell at his class, but it was much too late. As usual.

At least he had art next. That was fun.

Taehyung was hopeful. He wanted this to turn out okay. He was hoping that his day wouldn’t completely end any worse than it already was.

He naively hoped that his art classes would be better.

It wasn’t going great so far.

The college student clenched his fists in frustration

Taehyung could feel the icy glares burn onto his back. There were even come mocking giggles here and there.

Taehyung didn’t come to school to deal with... this. He already dealt with enough said treatment in everyday life.

Yeah, he was a freak. He knows that. There is no need

to drag it through the dirt even more, but no one else seemed to understand how he felt.

Taehyung wished that Bogum was here. His best friend was busy being, well, famous. His only friend couldn’t be there for Taehyung at times like this.

He took a deep breathe.

He was able to deal with the loneliness and bullying for this long. He could handle it even longer.

“Settle down, students! Settle down!” Taehyung's art professor called loudly.

Talking students began to settle into their seats in front of their blank canvas.

Taehyung fiddled with his paintbrushes distractedly. He was already sitting down from the start since he didn’t have anyone to talk to...

No! Don’t go down that train of thought, Taehyung! Everything will be fine. Just get through this class and it's freedom.

The art student brushed some stray strands of hair aside from his face. He took another deep breathe as his professor started to explain the instructions to the rest of the class.

Taehyung already knew what his assignment was. He needed to combine photography with art in his

upcoming exhibition. His entire scholarship was resting on it.

The topic was Daemons.

Taehyung frowned.

It was a simple word that has eluded Taehyung for his entire life.

Now, he had to create something awe inspiring modeled after it. What could he possibly do?

Taehyung picked up a pencil and narrowed his eyes. He gripped his pencil tightly and dived straight into potential creative ideas.

The sketches were weaved together to model the image in his mind. Taehyung wanted his art to be a reflection of who he was as a person.

Daemons was something Taehyung craved for, but it was very quite in his reach. Taehyung wanted to express that emotion. He could draw a hopeful child that was reaching out for this wisp of smoke. It was a Daemon that, even at close grasp, would still disappear and the child would

never experience.

It was quite sad, in reality. A child, still pure and filled with naive hope, desiring something that will never be his. How strange the world was at times.

Taehyung put down his pencil and beamed at his rough draft. It was kind of sloppy in places, but it

was only the first step.

Taehyung scooped up his palette and squirted some colors. He picked up his paintbrush and beamed brightly. There was an excited twinkle in Taehyung's eyes, which made his professor smile fondly.

Taehyung was completely in the zone. He knew what he

wanted to do.

With a stroke of a brush, Taehyung began to bring the image to reality. He brought depth, colors, value, gradients, and life to this still image. It was something Taehyung felt proud of.

Taehyung learned back and stretched. He could hear some bones cracking.

He winced at the harsh noise and yawned. He finally looked at his once canvas. There was the beginnings of a beautiful scenery to set the tone of the image. It was actually really beautiful.

Taehyung felt proud of what he had created. He felt happy.

Whenever Taehyung was happy, something always seemed to go wrong.

Someone bumped into Taehyung's shoulder harshly, before a cup of dirty paint water splashed onto his canvas.

The dirty water soaked the white canvas and the paint ran down the image. It was completely ruined.

“Oh, I’m so sorry!” a girl exclaimed really loudly and seemed to apologetic. Everyone seemed to fall for the act, but Taehyung knew better.

This has happened before in other classes.

It was on purpose. She ruined his artpiece simply because he was different and didn’t fit in

Taehyung had never felt so helpless and just wanted to curl into a ball and cry.

He didn’t want to be here anymore. What was the point if no one accepted him?

Just because he lacked a Daemon... was that such a big issue that petty students would make his life miserable?

Taehyung just wanted to have friends. He wanted to have a normal life in college.

His family was a mess. His social life was non-existent.

Was there even a point to... any of this anymore?

Taehyung mumbled an acceptance to the girl as tears stung his eyes.

Nothing ever seemed to turn out alright for Taehyung. Maybe that was the problem. He was the problem.

Taehyung was tired. He was exhausted.

He just wanted to go home and just sleep for the rest of the week. He didn’t want to talk to anyone anymore. He just wanted to be alone

The rest of the day passed by as if it were a blur. Taehyung felt like a zombie as he waddled back to his apartment.

The college student fell onto his bed in a slump. He hugged his pillow tightly and hid his face.

He just felt so tired and exhausted.

There was a familiar ding at his phone. He immediately recognized the ringtone. It was Bogum.

Taehyung picked up his phone and read the message: I am going to go to a BTS concert tomorrow and have an extra ticket. Do you want to come?

Taehyung wrinkled his forehead

He’s heard of BTS. They were one of the BIGGEST sensations around the world at the moment. However, Taehyung was more inclined to artists from a variety of different genres. He wasn’t that up to date with BTS.

And honestly, Taehyung just had an awful day. He didn’t want to do

anything. He literally wanted to lay on his bed and never leave for the rest of his life.

A major part of any KPop concert was centered around their Daemons. BTS was no different. Taehyung was very familiar with the yellow dog Daemon (Chimmy, he recalled) that belonged to Jimin

Bogum had plenty of March as evidence of that.

He didn’t want a reminder of that.

Taehyung sighed again into his pillow. He felt a slight headache due to all his crying.

Taehyung opened his phone and replied simply: Sorry. I don’t think I can. Thanks!

He quickly shut off his phone and closed his eyes.

Taehyung fell into a deep sleep, dreaming of a life where Daemons never existed and he was happy.

~

“HEY ARMYS, IT’S SO NICE TO SEE YOU ALL AGAIN!” Namjoon cheerfully announced loudly.

There was loud screaming and the BTS members laughed. Their Daemons have giggled as well next to their owners.

“HEY ARMYS, ARE YOU READY TO MAKE SOME NOISE!?” J-Hope cheered loudly and Mang jumped up and down in excitement.

RJ calmly out on a jacket as Jin began to welcome the

crowd as well.

“HEY ARMYS! IT’S WORLDWIDE HANDSOME JIN! I KNOW RJ AND I LOOK AS GOODLOOKING AS EVER, IT’S SUCH A SHOCK!” Jin joked loudly as his partner, next to him, nodded along. “AND AT LEAST WE AREN’T LIKE THOSE TWO LAZY HEADS HIDING AWAY!”

“Jin-hyung, have some pity,”

Jimin quickly defended. “Koya and Chimmy are just tired.”

The Koala and Dog Daemons were actually snuggling on the side of the stage in a deep sleep, instead of engaging in the concert

Jimin crouched down to the floor and pet his Daemon gently with a fond smile

“I’m just teasing. ARMYs, I know some of you have this misconception that Koya might be one of the laziest or that Chimmy is not that bright. And because of that, you think that reflects Joonie or Jimin,” the eldest noted. It wasn’t a question. It was a fact.

Namjoon jumped on top of the conversation since it was a pretty important topic, if not, a bit hurtful as well

“I know some of you think, because Koya is so lazy, I don’t try a lot with my dancing or such. I know I’m not a good dancer,” Namjoon admitted, if not looking a bit

self-deprecating, “but do not misunderstand that. Koya... the reason why they are always sleeping is because they have all these ideas and thoughts in their dreams, a bit like me. Koya is just always dreaming about all of these ideas, that’s all.”

Fans yelled in understanding and Namjoon smiled in thanks.

The leader then pointedly looked at Yoongi to say a few words.

The rapper smiled with a glint of mischief in his eyes.

“WE’RE YOUR HOPE... YOU’RE OUR HOPE... WE’RE...” Yoongi announced loudly and paused for a moment to

see if ARMYs would play along.

ARMYs laughed but yelled loudly the usual catchphrase, “J-HOPE AND MANG!”

Yoongi interrupted the fans and yelled, “SUGA AND SHOOKY!” at the top of his lungs.

Everyone laughed at Yoongi’s adorable antics and Hoseok nudged the rapper playfully

He gave Yoongi a bright smile and Yoongi shyly looked away.

Jimin stepped into the spotlight and said, “I don’t know if I can top any of that off, but I am glad to see you all! I hope you guys all stay warm and stay healthy! Make sure to wear a jacket during the concert!”

“WE LOVE YOU, JIMIN! WE LOVE YOU, CHIMMY!” ARMYs screamed back.

Jimin’s Daemon slowly opened their eyes and gave a sleepy yawn. Chimmy sat up from resting on Koya’s pillow. They blinked in confusion for a few seconds.

Jimin giggled cutely at how puzzled Chimmy looked

He picked up his Daemon fondly and smiled. “It isn’t quite time to perform yet!” Jimin remarked cheerfully and Chimmy nodded in understanding

“Jungkook, do you have comments for ARMY?” Namjoon asked the maknae, though his eyes looked a bit worried

Jungkook hasn’t been quite himself for the past few days, he would admit. The interview kept lingering in his mind.

TATA was perched on Jungkook’s shoulder and their arms were wrapped around tightly. Cooky was next to Jungkook, looking quite determined as if the concert was a

challenge instead of the usual.

However, Jungkook could feel the nervousness from both Daemons, though TATA’s felt a lot more faint

Jungkook sighed as he stared into the crowd. He always felt loved when surrounded by his fans and knowing how he has impacted their lives.

Would it be okay to be a bit more honest, perhaps?

“Hi, ARMYs!” Jungkook greeted shyly as his fans cheered in response. “Thanks so much for being here. Honestly, being around you guys really made my day. Lately, something’s been bothering me about the fact that I have two

Daemons. I am grateful for that and I love them both... but sometimes, I feel sad that people treat me differently simply because of TATA and Cooky. They aren’t just two Daemons that give me secret powers, though that would be amazing. They are my closest friends.

I love this band as well and all of you guys. Lately... I’ve been feeling lonely. Like something is missing and I don’t know quite what it is. Maybe I need to find that missing piece someday, but when I’m with you guys and performing with the band, that missing piece doesn’t feel

quite lost. I am just trying to say thank you and I hope you all enjoy the concert!”

Fans cheered loudly once again, though some sounded concerned for him.

Jungkook’s hands were shaking as he tried to smile. He could see the concerned looks on his friends’ eyes when he admitted

how he has been feeling lately.

He was surrounded by so many, but it didn’t feel unless lonely. Jungkook didn’t know how to explain it. And that made him feel a bit more guilty.

The idol sighed and mumbled under his breathe, “I wish whatever was missing would appear.”

All of a sudden, TATA unwrapped his arms quickly and started to frantically beeping

Jungkook was worried. He couldn’t understand what TATA was saying, but only fragments like: Yeah... Locate... One... JK...

“TATA, what’s wrong?” Jungkook questioned frantically

TATA beeped a few more times. TATA’s strangely alien language was hard to follow and it made Jungkook’s head hurt.

TATA made a loud noise and jumped off of Jungkook’s shoulders. Jungkook made a sound of surprise and everyone else was all confused

And then, TATA held a ray

gun out of nowhere (WHERE DID TATA EVEN HIDE THAT THING???) and pointed it out of the sky.

A big, glowing, and FLOATING portal was in the air.

Everyone was stunned and shocked.

It didn’t stop there.

TATA beeped again loudly, sounding awfully determined and... excited?

TATA extended their arms INTO the portal.

Everyone’s jaws dropped. Jungkook didn’t know what was going on anymore.

“TATA, what are you doing!?” Jungkook hissed at his Daemon acting all strange

TATA just hummed in response and pulled something out of the portal

Everyone gave cries of shock as the portal snapped closed, as if it never existed

The thing in TATA’s arms crashed into Jungkook, causing it to fall into the idol’s lap

It took everyone a few moments to realize that what TATA pulled out wasn’t a thing... but an actual person.

Jungkook was in shock as the stranger (a man? Or was it an alien? Jungkook didn’t know since it could be his twin for all he knew, knowing TATA) looked up at Jungkook

His maknae’s brain grounded to a halt.

There was an angel. And actual angel sitting in his lap.

Tired, bleary eyes stared up at him as the man yawned loudly. He rubbed his eyes sleepily and blinked several times at Jungkook.

He looked puzzled.

It was dead silent in the stadium to the point that you could hear one person cough awkwardly

The man tilted his head like a

confused dog

“This is probably one of the strangest dreams I’ve had,” the man mumbled quietly, before curiously poking Jungkook’s cheek

Jungkook’s jaw has been dropped open for a while and his brain’s gears grinded to a halt

He could only focus on the pretty angel’s

eyes and pretty face. His silver locks looked stunning against his golden skin

Jungkook has seen many pretty idols and hot ones as well. Heck, Namjoon probably has one of the best thighs he knows. However, Jungkook could firmly say that the person in front of him was probably

so beautiful, it was unreal

Instead of the angel thinking this was all a dream, Jungkook felt like HE was having the dream. After all, how could such a beautiful person possibly exist? That simply does not make any sense!

Jungkook was very much dumbfounded as his bandmates

look at him nervously. No one know what quite to do

The angel poked Jungkook’s nose curiously, before giggling. This caused Jungkook to shyly smile after he saw the adorable box shaped smile from the other

Jungkook swore he could feel his heartbeat in his ears from nerves

“I’ve had an awful day today,” the angel quipped, causing Jungkook to frown. “As a dream, I was expecting either a nightmare or a good dream. I don’t know you, but since you are really cute, I assume you are a good dream. Are you going to take me somewhere for fun?”

Jungkook opened his mouth again, trying to get his brain work

However, the angel plowed on right through as he kept talking out loud. The angel looked around at his surroundings and his eyes widened at the sheer amount of people

He grinned excitedly

“Ooh. Are we on stage? That’s cool! That’s a loooooot of people. Way too many, actually. Maybe this is supposed to be a bad dream after all. Huh. You know, those people on the stage with us look vaguely familiar. You look vaguely familiar too, now that I am thinking it.

Is this another dream where you all turn out to be dogs disguised as humans and pretending to be KPop idols? Because that was a weird dream and I don’t want to repeat it. But all the Daemons here are really cool though!” the angel rambled outloud, though he sounded a bit sad

towards the end

Jungkook felt a pang in his chest. He didn’t like how the angel looked sad. It felt wrong.

However, the angel placed a bright smile back on his face and kept talking

“If you guys are all actually dogs in disguise though and have cool Daemons, that might make

up for it. However, I don’t get his dogs can even have Daemons. Dream mechanics are confusing. But honestly, if Daemons are manifestations of our souls, why don’t have every creature have one?” The angel questioned thoughtfully and tilted his head.

The deep questions reminded Jungkook of Namjoon, so the maknae turned to his leader for help

Jungkook didn’t know what to do.

It took a moment, but Namjoon quickly took charge of the situation.

The leader gave TATA a sharp look, as if to say “BEHAVE” before approaching the

stranger

Namjoon gave a polite dimpled smile, before leaning forward and whispering in the angel’s ears

The angel’s eyes widened in surprise, before nodding looking quite stunned and embarrassed

Namjoon smiled and motioned for security, who had been waiting

at the sides anxiously

The angel stared down at the ground, before darting off the stage behind security

“Sorry about that, ARMY. I don’t think anyone was quite expecting that,” Namjoon smiled and joked.

The tension finally broke as fans laughed

“Anyways, the show must go on!” Hoseok announced loudly. “Let’s go!”

Familiar nostalgic music of “Run” in the background. Everyone got into their positions - humans and Daemons alike

However, Jungkook couldn’t get the image of the angel out of his head for the rest of the night

~

“Wait here,” a guard gently said to a dazed Taehyung.

Taehyung nodded silently as he sat down back stage.

Everyone else were rushing around, trying to make the concert run as smoothly as possible. There was an occasional curious side glance at Taehyung, but for the most

part, everyone else ignored him.

That was a relief. The staff was probably too busy to notice Taehyung make an embarrassment of himself in front of thousands of strangers.

The college student wanted to hunch over and scream into his pillow, but, unfortunately, he couldn’t

Taehyung sighed. How did this even all happen in the first place? One moment, he was having an awful day and crying into his pillow.

The next, he was grabbed and flung into some handsome stranger’s lap.

He thought he just ended up crying himself to sleep (he did) and that this

was all a dream (that wasn’t the case at all.)

Taehyung sighed and leaned back into his chair. He could hear screaming of the fans outside, before music began to play. Then, he heard singing.

Oh. They were K-Pop idols.

Taehyung smiled in amusement. He mentioned his dream about K-Pop idols, but what a funny coincidence!

Taehyung shyly glanced at staff members on standby with different outfits prepared for the idols on stage.

Taehyung looked down at his own outfit and frowned.

He didn’t really bother to change, so Taehying could still see the ketchup stain from this afternoon and some paint splatters on his sleeves.

Overall, he was complete mess. He probably had puffy red eyes to complete his attire.

Taehyung was sitting down, regretting everything,

when a security guard returned.

“Sir, the manager told me to inform you that you should probably call your family to let you know you will be here,” he gruffly stated.

Taehyung winced. “Am I in trouble?”

The guard shook his head, before briskly walking away.

Taehyung bit his lip, but took out his phone form his pocket. He turned it on.

53 messages and 11 calls.

Taehyung’s mouth fell open. What happened!?

Taehyung frowned. About 20 were from Bogum and the rest were from his family or sort-of acquaintances

That was really strange, considering none of those acquaintances have never bothered to reach out to him before.

Taehyung decided to call Bogum immediately.

It only rung once, before he picked up.

“Bogum, what’s wrong? Aren’t you supposed to be at some concert? BTS, no?

Did something happen to make you leave so many messages?” Taehyung questioned.

Taehyung could hear a noise of disapproval as answer. “Actually, I AM at the BTS concert, Tae. Just like you.”

Taehyung froze.

Just. Like. You.

“Wait...” Taehyung trialed off, horrified

“Mhm. I saw you. Tae, are you okay? That was really... unexpected,” Bogum said from the other side of the line.

“No, no, no!” Taehyung hissed into the phone. This had to be a mistake! “Are you really telling me that I acted like an idiot in front of a global sensation and their

entire fan base!?”

There was a pause of awkward silent.

“Basically,” Bogum replied. Taehyung groaned in dread. “You’re trending right now. #/MysteryMan is currently trending right now and the videos are blowing up. Everyone wants to know who you are.”

Great. Just great.

“Bogum, what do I do?” Taehyung whined into the phone.

His best friend awkwardly cleared his throat and hesitantly said, “I am sure it is going to be okay?”

“Have you SEEN their fan base?” Taehyung hissed. “They are all probably secret detectives that can track down

a photograph of me being an embarrassment, which I probably didn’t even know existed!”

“You know, I AM part of said fan base,” Bogum grumbled. Taehyung could picture his best friend wrinkling his nose out of annoyance.

Taehyung waved it off.

“Yeah, yeah. Your Park Jimin and

Chimmy merch reminds me a lot. Probably the only reason why I know who Park Jimin even is, much less his Daemon,” Taehyung sighed and sunk back into his chair

“Taehyung, calm down. Stop exaggerating. It is just a trend amidst all the other BTS hashtags. People are just curious.

It’ll be fine. I mean, worst comes to shove, your identity is blown. But then people will forget about it later. BTS is hosting a concert right now. What do you think is more important?” Bogum said reassuringly, with a calming tone.

Taehyung took a deep breathe.

“Yeah, you are right. There is no need to worry,” Taehyung agreed. Thank goodness he had Bogum, Taehyung thanked his lucky stars for giving him such an amazing best friend

“Mhm. Anyways, Tae, I’ll call you later after the concert. Sit tight. We can go back together!”

There was a loud beep as Bogum hung up.

Taehyung looked around at his surroundings. Everyone was so busy, mulling around. Taehyung side eyed some of the Daemons following as well.

There was a little flower creature perched on one of the stylist’s shoulders. There was another

pink penguin waddling behind a frazzled assistant

Daemons really did some in all different shapes and sizes

Taehying sighed and closed his eyes. His hands twitched. He wanted to touch a Daemon and feel that tingly feeling

He wished Bomi was here. Bogum’s would give him kisses

and cuddles

Alas, Taehyung was still stuck back stage - waiting.

For what, he wasn’t quite sure anymore. Taehyung was just tired both mentally and physically

Taehyung ended up actually falling asleep back stage.

He looked so peaceful that no staff members wanted to bother him

~

“You all okay now?” Namjoon asked worldly as some members finished using the oxygen cans.

They smiled, looking all rather exhausted.

The other members were sprawled in the couches, panting harshly.

Yoongi looked completely dead, taking up an entire couch

Shooky was sleeping on Yoongi’s stomach.

Jimin was also tired, but fiddled with an exhausted Hobi’s hair. The dancer was actually snoring softly

Jin plopped down onto another seat, when the other Daemons decided that Jin would be an amazing pillow or cushion

The oldest hissed under the sudden heaviness and gave Jungkook a pleasingly look for help.

Jungkook grinned and shrugged. Jin gave the youngest a stink glare and looked pleadingly at Namjoon

Despite Namjoon usually rushing to save his princess (Jungkook still wasn’t quite

over the Snow White dress, tbh) the leader was in a deep conversation with their managers.

Namjoon frowned looking a bit unsure, but nodded. Their managers beamed, before exiting the door.

The door slammed shut and Namjoon turned back to the group

Hoseok sat up from his seat and rubbed his eyes tiredly. Yoongi didn’t open his eyes at all, but everyone else was looking at their leader

Was there bad news?

Namjoon was looking at TATA rather intensely

Jungkook’s heart Daemon perched on top of his head, feeling quite heavy

Cooky was going push-ups next to the Idol group and ignored what was going on

“Do you guys remember the incident during the concert?” Namjoon asked.

Everyone nodded. After all, it WAS fresh in their minds

“Yeah, you mean TATA managing to OPEN a portal and grabbed a PERSON

out of it. But I got to say that the person was a solid 9/10 for looks, but the 10/10 is still me,” Jin joked around, though looking a bit pained from the 3 Daemons sitting on top of him

Namjoon nodded and explained, “Yeah, well, the guy actually feel asleep back stage.

We can’t let him quite walk out of here immediately, since we still don’t know where he is from, if he is even human (cue looks at TATA), or someone that can cause trouble later. The staff is bringing him to nap here while we rest. They don’t want

other people being a bit too curious. Is that okay? I know the concert was tiring and I don’t think anyone wants another person here, but there isn’t any room to hide him sighed.”

Some members were hesitant, but everyone ended up unanimously agreeing to let the stranger stay.

Jungkook could feel TATA vibrating with excitement from his spot. He even made some excited sounds that sounds more like beeps to the human ear

“Calm down. After all, your excitement last time is what caused this,” he scolded his Daemon gently

Yet Jungkook also felt excited too

He could not explain exactly why, but Jungkook simply the adrenaline akin to when he is about to try something new. Maybe something more dangerous, but exciting all the same

“I will let the staff know,” Namjoon replied a relieved smil. Then a more sterner look adorned his face

“I know some of you guys are confused and maybe even upset, especially if this could end up to be a dangerous person. The security guards are around, but also make sure to be on your best behavior. Okay?” Namjoon reminded them.

Members hummed in response or agreed

There was a tiredness on most of their faces at the thought that this stranger might be someone troublesome

“Don’t worry about it! He’s probably going to be sleep away all day,” Jin jumped into the conversation to reassure the members. “Namjoon is just suggesting a possibility.”

Namjoon nodded in affirmation and the tension lifted a bit into a lighter and more cheerful mood

“Maybe he’ll be a nice guy!” Jimin piped hopefully while fiddling with a snoring Hoseok’s hair.

“Maybe he’ll be nice enough to help out his hyungs!” Seokjin snipped, obviously

meant to poke at an innocently smiling Jungkook

“I thought you adored spending time with the Daemons?” Jungkook grinned. “Maybe you would like Cooky and TATA to join the bonding time with the gang?”

Jin paled at the thought of another two Daemons joining the dogpile on his lap

“Isn’t Shooky supposed to be the mischievous one?” the oldest complained loudly

Mang simply kicked their legs on their perch while Chimmy tilted his head in confusion. RJ simply calmly watched the chaos unfold, snacking on a cookie

There was a knock on the door

One of their security guards walked in and in bridle-style, carried the sleeping angel

Jungkook’s breathe hitched. He was still as beautiful as ever

The idol literally couldn’t take his eyes off of the angel. He just looked... breathtaking

TATA beeped loudly out of excitement

The angel stirred in his sleep

The smile slipped off of Jungkook’s face while Cooky peeked curiously at the sleeping man

They felt the same curiosity and awe that their owner felt. There are something both intriguing and special about that person, but Cooky couldn’t quite place

“Shh, TATA, be quiet,” Jungkook hissed at his Daemon. Instead stopping, TATA started to get even LOUDER

TATA extended their arms towards the sleeping angel. However, Jungkook gently slapped the arms away with a big frown. TATA’s reaction to be more than just curiosity

TATA was acting... strange. Well, stranger than usual

The whole incident from the concert that caused this pretty stranger to end up here was the main example

Jungkook wanted to frown at TATA, but too bad that the daemon was laying on his head

They wouldn’t stop BEEPING either

Yoongi sighed from his spot on the couch

“Can you just shut them up?” the rapper hissed moodily. Obviously, very much tired

“I don’t know! TATA isn’t behaving!” Jungkook hissed since TATA kept trying to reach out for the stranger

It was a weird scene if you pictured it. A sleepy, grumpy Yoongi laying on the couch and rubbing his eyes while Shooky watched the chaos curiously. Jin was being crushed by three Daemons whom all decided that Jin was a good chair. Jimin casually playing with Hobi’s hair while the

dancer slept through the chaos. Namjoon looking a bit befuddled from his position about what was going on. Meanwhile, Jungkook had a giant heart alien on his head while swating said alien’s long arms

At least, except for Jin’s case, the Daemons were all behaving except for TATA

TATA’s frantic beeping was almost blaring to the ears. It was annoying, but Jungkook could sense the excitement and hopefulness from TATA

Jungkook could only understand snippets of what TATA was saying

The maknae looked at Jimin, who was frowning at the alien Daemon

“What is TATA exactly saying?” Jungkook asked a bit begrudgingly

(No, he wasn’t insecure that Jimin could understand his own Daemon better than himself. Definitely not)

“I think... from what I could understand, he’s really excited to see the stranger. He keeps saying the

same thing over and over again,” Jimin stated, looking quite confused

Jungkook frowned. “Then what is TATA saying? Is it important?”

“He’s saying-“

Their was a loud yawn as the angel rubbed his eyes sleepily

The huge security guard that was holding the stranger quite

confused immediately rushed to the nearest couch

The security guard laid the angel down as he woke up from his nap

One pretty brown eye opened, followed by a second

The angel yawned loudly again and swung his legs over the coach. He was still rubbing his eyes in a daze

The strange blinked once, before repeating. There was a peculiar look on his face, as if the stranger was in disbelief

There was a moment of worry in the air that letting the stranger rest here was a mistake. Everyone held their breathe

However, the tension was broken

by TATA

The heart shaped Daemon kept chattering and urging Jungkook to get closer to the stranger

“Shh. Behave. He looks very confused,” Jungkook hissed under his breathe at his Daemon. Too bad TATA was too stubborn and completely ignored his request

They kept beeping the same sounds over and over again

Jungkook frowned. What exactly WAS his Daemon saying?

Jungkook was about to turn to ask Jimin that exact question when-

“Huh? What do you mean I’m finally here? Do I know you?” the angel innocently asked at TATA

Silence.

There were flabbergasted looks on the members’ faces.

Some exchanged looks, as if wondering they misheard something.

The angel frowned. “Was it something I said?” he asked in a puzzled voice.

TATA beeped a very adamant no.

However, the angel still looked very unsure

“Um... Pardon me,” someone piped into the conversation. It was Jin, who gave a polite smile to the stranger. “Do you understand that Daemon?”

The angel’s eyes widened

“Wait, it’s actually real!?” the angel gasped in surprise

“Yeah... what did you think it was?” Yoongi remarked

The stranger smiled sheepishly. “I thought this was another dream or nightmare, considering how I made a fool of myself earlier.”

The stranger frowned as he gave TATA an inquisitive look.

Likely, the same question was on their guest’s mind: How could he understand TATA?

If Jungkook didn’t know any better, he would say that TATA was their guest’s. However, TATA and Cooky were manifested from blobs into their current forms. Jungkook was there throughout the entire process.

Was this stranger another strange exception, just like Jimin?

Maybe this pretty boy has the uncanny ability to understand Daemons. Or maybe TATA was just a particular case

(TATA’s insistent chirping and beeping were kind of getting on Jungkook’s nerves. It was distracting with chatters about wanting to be friends with the pretty stranger )

There was an awkward pause of silence since no one know what exactly to say anymore.

“I still can’t believe I am not dreaming,” the stranger mumbled, looking rather puzzled. He then looked at the members of the band. “Do you guys know how I exactly got here though?”

There was a pointed look at TATA, who smiled happily at everyone.

Jungkook frowned at his Daemon as well. Why DID the Daemon decide to plop this pretty boy into his lap?

Cooky tugged on Jungkook’s pants and they raised an eyebrow, before pointing at themselves and the angel

Oh.

Jungkook blurted out the question: Where is your Daemon?

There was a change in the pretty boy’s behavior. He stiffened up and got tense. There was an unhappy look on his face

It made himself and his Daemon unhappy. That face didn’t look... right on the angel’s face

However, before the angel could answer, there was a loud BANG as the doors were doubted open.

There was another man panting harshly while wearing Chimmy merch all over

“Tae... are you okay?” the man asked before lifting his head.

The man looked familiar. But where?

Oh! It was that actor. Park Bogum or something

(Tae. That was a nice name. Jungkook liked how it topped off the tongue, okay?)

The angel (Tae) gave a relieved smile at Bogum.

“Okay, that’s good! Anyways, I already got things straightened with the managers, so we can leave.”

Tae sighed in relief and he leapt to his feet. There was such a bright, lively smile on Tae’s face that Junglook wanted to protect it forever.

However, there was this uncomfortable feeling to see Tae... walk away.

Jungkook wanted to protest. Say something.

But he didn’t.

He couldn’t move his mouth. His body wouldn’t move.

Everything felt wrong.

TATA beeped loudly - almost sounding angry or perhaps desperate.

They were words Jungkook actually could understand and didn’t need Jimin to translate.

“No. No. No.”

Like a child, TATA beeped the same words over and over again, before the beeps dwindling down to a hopeless sound of submission.

Jungkook could feel the pangs of sadness and longing from TATA. Jungkook quietly picked up TATA and hugged them tightly in his arms.

Jungkook would be lying if he understood what exactly just happened. Everything happened so... quickly.

He still had so many questions he wanted to ask Tae. Like what was his full name? What were his likes and dislikes? How was he able to understand TATA? Where was his Daemon?

(What is his relationship with Bogum?)

Yet the stranger who came for a brief moment left before Jungkook could ask anything.

Jungkook didn’t even know Tae’s full name, but he did know how Tae’s eyes sparkled in the light at least.

Jungkook sighed in distress, while his

fellow bandmates exchanged looks.

“Is TATA okay?” Jin asked worriedly. “They are acting... really strange today.”

“I think they are really attached to that Tae person,” Jimin piped up, yet there was a frown on his face. The dancer looked very worried.

“We don’t know much about that person though,” Namjoon entered the conversation. The leader of the group looked very serious. “Anyways, he also might be a fan for all we know. Things can get... messy. Let’s leave this whole situation at that. The papers were already signed and

Tae is long gone.”

At those words, TATA beeped again, sounding upset.

Cooky kept giving TATA worries glances and Jungkook hugged his sad Daemon tighter.

“Aren’t you guys curious though? How could that stranger understand TATA?” Jimin asked, the question obviously bothering him

“Maybe the same way you can understand TATA? Maybe it is just a language you can either understand or not understand,” Jin suggested back. The idea seemed plausible, but...

“That’s b*ullshit. This is a Daemon, we are talking about. No way that anything can be a coincidence

when we are talking about such a serious subject matter. TATA is a very special case. Heck, Jungkook is an interesting case alone. There is probably an important explanation why that kid could understand TATA,” Yoongi grunted on the couch, muffling a loud yawn. “Not to mention

TATA’s strange behavior and powers. Something is going on here.”

The group pondered all that they wanted, but they still had no answers to any of their questions

Suddenly, there was another loud yawn and someone sat up

It was Hoseok.

“What did I miss?” Hobi asked cheerfully.

The members glanced at each other and chuckled. The fact that Hoseok was able to sleep through... everything was pretty impressive.

“We’ll catch you up later,” Jimin said and motioned towards himself and Yoongi.

The now-awake male gave a grateful smile towards the duo.

Everyone started to stand up and stretch. Everyone was really tired and simply wanted to rest as soon as possible.

They tidied the rooms and thanked the staff as they left. The members chatted tiredly together.

However, Jungkook couldn’t help but feel sad. Something was missing

~

“Taehyung, are you okay?” Bogum glanced at his best friend worriedly.

Taehyung stifled a yawn and rubbed his eyes sleepily.

“I’m just tired,” Taehyung mumbled softly, almost stumbling due to how awful he felt.

There was a slight pain in the back of his head and he winced

“Are you sure...?” Bogum said. He voice was laced with doubt - probably from the awkward scene he interrupted a few moments earlier.

“I’m fine,” Taehyung shot back. The words sounded curt and sharp.

Bogum raised his arms in surrender. Taehyung sighed, feeling quite guilty

“It’s just been... a really long day. I had to deal with stuff today at school and just wanted to cry myself to sleep. Next thing I know, I’m sitting in an idol’s lap with my identity trending. Not to mention the questions and words about my lack of a Daemon,” Tae said bitterly

Bogum gave him that look again. Taehyung hated that look of sympathy. It felt to akin to how his grandparents would look at him

He honestly just wanted to just cuddle with Bomi... Wait, where was Bomi?

Taehyung opened his mouth to ask where was Bogum’s Daemon when there was

a loud, familiar bark. Taehyung was tackled and attacked with licks all over his face.

“Stop it, stop it!” Taehyung giggled as he tried to push the friendly dog off. The dog gave another bark of a hello and gave one last wet kiss on the lips.

There was that familiar warmth from

touching another Daemon. Taehyung beamed.

Though he may never experience it everyday, moments like this really made him treasure it.

There was a loud ding from Bogum’s phone and the actor quickly checked it out. Taehyung, deciding to play with the white spotted dog,

was completely distracted.

He missed the large frown on Bogum’s face when he saw the screen. It was the look of concern that spelled imminent disaster.

However, the actor quickly plastered a fake smile on his face as he turned back towards Taehyung

“By the way, how is your exhibition coming along, Vante?” Bogum asked curiously.

Taehyung groaned.

“That was the source of my terrible day. The exhibitions was about Daemons, my scholarship is riding on its success, aaaaaaaah!” Taehyung whined loudly and pouted

Bogum gently nudged his best friend

“You can do it!” he exclaimed encouragingly. “You always end up making such masterpieces.”

“But usually those are things that I WANT to make as my escape. Daemons... I don’t like this topic at all,” Taehyung sighed. “It isn’t just about me

though, but Daemons just cause a giant mess for my entire family.”

Bogum winced at the words and looked guilty for a moment, before quickly changing the subject.

“Anyways, you are now famous! Well, not that you weren’t famous before - but that was under a fake name. You are now

famous world wide. You are now bigger than me! How do you feel?” Bogum asked, nudging Tae playfully.

Taehyung rolled his eyes.

“Didn’t I already complain about this topic enough?” Taehyung sighed. “The ARMYs all probably know where I live to a random video clip from my

childhood.”

“As the actor here, aren’t I supposed to be the dramatic one?” Bogum deadpanned, before giving another smile at Tae. It was a reassuring look.

Tae smiled. He already felt a bit lighter. He could almost ignore the slightly pounding headache and the aches of sleep

“People are talking about how beautiful you are. People are calling you a mysterious model,” Bogum said. He said it with such a serious look on his face that it made Taehyung burst out laughing in disbelief

Bomi gave a loud bark of joy from seeing Taehyung laugh

The sight made Bogum feel warm and happy

Even if other people didn’t see how amazing Taehyung was, he was glad he could at least

With a small smile or laugh, Taehyung could literally light up a room. It contrasted to how people usually quipped he was too stoic. You just had to

see past the mask

“You can’t possibly be serious,” Taehyung snorted. They were now hitching a ride back to Bogum’s place. “Me? A model?”

“You are handsome enough for it. Give yourself more credit,” Bogum replied with a frown.

Taehyung just gave a small smile

The reason why Taehyung couldn’t be a model went unsaid

(Everything came back to Daemons. Everything.)

Sensing an uncomfortable silence ahead, Bogum switched topics.

“So how did you feel meeting BTS? Aren’t they amazing?” Bogum asked with an excited grin

Taehyung rolled his eyes, but a fond smile tugged at his lips

“Why don’t you just ask about Jimin - which you are probably dying to ask in the first place?” Taehyung replied teasingly

Bogum chuckled, looking sheepish

The actor was caught

“Well, since you offered...” Bogum trailed off, giving Taehyung a hopeful look

He looked exactly like a dog begging for a treat. He could see the resemblance with Bomi. A lot.

“Unfortunately for you, we didn’t really talk. I was really confused when I woke up,” Taehyung

explained. “I mean, I could recognize Jimin, but I couldn’t name the rest if you wanted me too.”

Bogum sighed in defeat. Someday, he swears, he will get Taehyung knees deep into the band

“I kept thinking I was waking up from a dream,” Taehyung confessed. “I still think that WAS

a dream. I mean, there was an heart shaped Daemon... TALKING to me! Like how is that possible! I mean, I’ve heard of understanding other Daemons if you have a strong connection with a person, but that really surprised me. That’s why I kept thinking it was a dream.

Who knew a Daemon that could talk to anyone even existed,” Taehyung explained while shaking his head. He was still in shock, honestly. He never even imagined such a thing existed

Bogum’s eyes were bulging out in shock.

“Wait, did you really understand TATA?” Bogum asked

“Mhm. Oh wait, here’s our stop!” Taehyung affirmed as he stared out the window

The artist didn’t even realize the bombshell he even dropped on Bogum.

Any ARMY knew that TATA was an alien type of Daemon. Jungkook struggles to understand them. What did it mean if Taehyung - who

didn’t even KNOW Jungkook’s actual name - could understand TATA? It didn’t make sense.

Yet, Bogum didn’t say anything. Taehyung had a long day. That was one bombshell to deal with later

In all honesty, Bogum was more concerned about the message earlier.

It was about Tae’s mom.

~

“It’s been a week. Something is wrong with all three of you,” Yoongi loudly declared. “Ever since that concert, you guys have been acting weird.”

TATA made a loud beep in protest and Cooky simply glowered at the rapper.

Jungkook crossed his arms and sharply glared

“Is there seriously a need for an interrogation right now?” Jungkook grumpily snarked back.

He could see other members change looks of worry from the corner of his eyes. It made his scowl deepen in response

Yoongi frowned at Jungkook and his mouth to scold him.

“Yoongi, I got this,” Namjoon slid into the conversation. Yoongi sighed, before walking away and leaned on the wall. The rest of the members were all gathered next to the walls

Jungkook was sitting on the couch while Namjoon stood before him.

There was a look of disappointment

That made a knife twist in Jungkook’s gut from the guilt. To say he respected Namjoon was an understatement.

Namjoon was the entire reason why he felt inspired to leave his old life behind him and to pursue his own dream. Jungkook would always look up to rapper and treat

everything these elder say to a higher degree

Namjoon was a brilliant and patient leader. He was always willing to guide Jungkook. Seeing Namjoon look so upset at him... it was heart-wrenching

He felt like he let his idol down

Namjoon ran his hand through his hair with a sigh

“Jungkook, what is going on with you? You have been having horrible moodswings lately. One moment, you are snappish. The other moment, you just seem... sad. Are you okay? We are there to listen if you need us,” Namjoon explained gently. It didn’t sound angry. It was tinged with

some disappointment, but you could hear the concern in the leader‘s voice.

“Your Daemons are reflecting how you feel as well,” Seokjin inserted himself into the conversation. “TATA has been moping around and Cooky has destroyed so many punching bags in the past few days.”

Jungkook winced. That was true. He could feel the familiar energy of TATA quiet down to a sad bundle of loneliness and longing. TATA wasn’t even talking anymore or exploring or being their weird self.

TATA’s quirkiness has completely disappeared. That just made it stranger

Now, on the other hand, Cooky was always determined to be strong and was really competitive. Jungkook admitted that Cooky’s competitiveness and stubbornness was really attributed to him

However, Cooky has destroyed DOZENS of new, high quality punching bags in the past week

So yeah. That definitely wasn’t cheap either

Jungkook knew that he has been snappish AND sad. Both Daemons reflected that.

However, Jungkook couldn’t explain why he felt like this either. Something always felt missing, but now it felt like something important was torn away

It felt even more infuriating since he felt like he should know WHY he felt like this. But he didn’t.

Everything felt wrong. Jungkook knew he was frustrating to deal with at the moment, but he can’t really explain what was going on with him either to the band

The band resorted to this “intervention” to set Jungkook straight. Yet, he could only shrug in response

He had no answers for any of them, besides feeling awful, angry at the world, and of suffocating sadness

TATA rested their head Jungkook’s arm. They gave a sad beep.

Cooky simply flared at all the members, before stomping off. Probably to destroy more punching bags later

There was a suffocating tension in the room

“Jungkook, why don’t we go out for a walk or eat? Maybe you are stressed?” Seokjin suggested, looking very much strained

The eldest was trying to avoid a complete train wreck

Jungkook grimaced. He knew that his attitude was completely messing up the team dynamic. He felt bad, but he also couldn’t help it

Jungkook sighed. “Sure, that’s it,” he lied through his teeth

~

“Tae, this isn’t healthy,” Bogum frowned as he peered at a completely zombie of his best friend

“I’m fine,” Tae grumbled

(He was far from fine)

Bogum was scowling at him. He was also crossing his arms and tapping his foot

He held up all the empty trash

“Using this much medicine and caffeine to deal with headaches certainly aren’t normal! You have to go see the doctor!” Bogum scolded him.

Taehyung scowled. “What do you want me to do?” he complained loudly. “That’s the only thing stopping me from my head ripping apart.”

Bogum’s frown in disappointment deepened. Taehyung was almost impressed. Due to the fact that his own mother was... well, anyways, Bogum was basically acting like Taehyung’s mom. And his best friend certainly for that role pat down (yes, pun intended)

But anyways, Taehyung was a mess. His head felt like he was splitting apart to the point that he wanted to SMASH his head open simply to stop the pain

He also had to deal with college. Sure, it was stressful before with the the working and bullies, but now it was worse

Now some people were curious about what happened at the BTS concert, which honestly, Tae completely blocked out. People were too nosy and kept INVADING his privacy

Now Tae had to disguise himself wherever he went in order to avoid the attention. That also suck. A lot.

Is this how idols felt? Because honestly, it sucks. Big time.

Like even with a disguise on, PEOPLE STILL FREAKING RECOGNIZE HIM!

Some aren’t even BTS fans! Just people who are just too freaking curious for their own good or just wanted some juicy gossip

...

Okay, Tae was very much cranky due to the headache but he’s had so many people ask him: Do you know BTS? or I saw you trending last night. Are you famous or something?

Taehyung was honestly so over this situation. He just wanted to just bury himself under a bunch of

blankets and call it a day.

As if sensing Taehyung’s childish attitude, Bogum gave a loud sigh and pinched his nose in exasperation. He picked up a coffee cup and shook it

“See this?” the actor said with such a serious look.

Taehying tilted his head

“Huh?” he whined

Bogum didn’t reply. He simply picked up the cup, took several stores away, before plopping the drink into the nearest trash can

Taehyung poured and opened his mouth to complain, but was cut off.

“You aren’t healthy enough to be at school. Go home,” Bogum scolded Taehyung

Taehyung stubbornly crossed his head and shook his head. The harsh shake, however, made the headache even worse. The room seemed to be momentarily spinning.

Ugh. Yeah, he was in no state to be at school. He would admit that.

“Fine,” Taehyung finally relented. Bogum beamed

However, Taehying quickly steamrolled over everything. “However, get me a new if coffee before we head home. That was my own cup of coffee before you GENEROUSLY decided to throw it away.”

Bogum merely scoffed, but agreed. He was used to a sick Taehyung

His best friend either resulted to being a child or really sarcastic. It was easy to see where one Tae was at the moment.

“Sure, I will do that. Just promise me that you will rest after this. When you are better, call me. I need to talk to you about something... important,”

Bogum requested. Taehyung nodded in agreement and the duo headed towards the nearest coffee shop.

Behind them, Bomi was trailing around faithfully. Once in a while, the Daemon playfully nudged Taehying and wanted their trail happily

Taehyung giggled, feeling a bit lighted and

the pain fading, before opening the door.

The pair began to laughing and banter, before Bogum shooed Taehying off to find a seat while he ordered drinks

Tae walked away, with a happy smile on his face, when he almost tripped over something.

Or to be exact, someone

Taehyung brushes the innocent off when he an apology was ready on his lips when...

Pink. The thing he tripped over was pink

It wasn’t possible. His luck couldn’t be that bad... right?

Oh, but it was. Standing before Taehyung was Cooky. And his owner couldn’t be that far either

Taehyung’s eyes darted around nervously

His luck couldn’t possibly be that bad... right?

Taehyung turned around. His mind was fully set on marching over to his best friend and dragging him to somewhere else

However, he didn’t expect the exact thing he tripped over to stop him

There was something tightly hugging to one of his legs. This caused Taehyung to almost trip AGAIN from the sudden weight

The artist looked down to see a glint of determination in the pink bunny’s eyes

The bunny was snuggling their face into Taehyung’s pants. The Daemon

made a whine every time Taehyung tried to move

This was especially awkward since he was just... standing there. In the middle of a coffee shop.

There were a few customers murmuring in interest at the scene, but for the most part, no one gave him mind.

Thank goodness

that no one recognized him.

Taehyung gently patted the bunny on its head. He felt a tingle of warmth. It felt like he was snuggled in many blankets in front of a fire.

It felt warm.

Taehyung continued to rub and pet the Daemon. He briefly wondered what his life came to

“Heya, buddy. Cooky, right? Wow. I can’t believe the crash course Bogum gave me was actually useful... Anyways, mind letting me go?” Taehyung gently asked.

Still avoiding Taehyung’s watchful eyes, the Daemon shook their head.

Taehyung sighed. He figured.

“Why do you like me so

much?” Taehyung mumbled softly. He was very confused, after all. It didn’t make sense why this Daemon was so... touchy-feely to a complete stranger

Unless Cooky’s personality is actually very friendly. Which, could be possible since Taehyung couldn’t really recall how Bogum

described Cooky.

“It’s because you feel like home,” a soft voice mumbled.

Taehyung froze.

That voice came from below him.

It wasn’t possible... right?

Taehyung looked down to see the curious, shy eyes from the pink bunny

Taehyung’s mouth was totally hanging

“Hey, it’s you!” a surprised voice said behind Taehyung. The student turned around to see a familiar handsome face on front of him.

He recognized it both from the billboards, ads, and the recent passionate lecture Bogum gave him.

It was, none other, than Kim Seokjin

Jin

(Worldwide Handsome, a voice that sounded like Bogum rang loudly in his ears)

Even wearing sunglasses and a hat, Taehyung could immediately recognize those shoulders. After all, Bogum DID quiz him on the different Bangtan members and those shoulders were basically burned into

his mind

Taehyung gave a hesitant smile. The last time he has seen the idol was the awkward scene before his departure

He hadn’t actually interracred either with the older

“Hm... Tae, isn’t it?” Jin kindly asked Taehyung with a cheerful expression

“It’s actually Taehyung.

Nice to meet you,” Taehyung replied and stuck out his hand. The two promptly shook hands and smiled at each other.

Jin then glanced at the thing hiding behind Taehyung.

“Cooky, what are you doing? Aren’t you supposed to be with Jungkook?” Jin questioned the bunny.

“Restroom,” a muffled reply came from Cooky

The clear words made Taehyung jump in surprise. So. He wasn’t imagining it after all.

“Oh, then at least let Taehyung go. He is trapped in your clutches. You aren’t TATA, now are you?” the idol pointed out to the Daemon

The Daemon whined loudly, before finally relenting and releasing his grasp on Taehyung’s leg.

Taehyung sighed in relief. He was finally FREE!

“Thanks, Seokjin-shi. And don’t worry about it, Cooky. I enjoyed being in your clutches,” Taehyung joked and grinned at the Daemon.

“Just try not to get into too much trouble while your owner is in the restroom.”

Taehyung turned away to only feel the uncomfortable sensation that he was being inspected by Seokjin.

That’s ridiculous. Why would an idol be interested in him, nor what did he do to necessitate

such a response

Taehyung needed to leave. Now

“Anyways, thanks for the greeting. Cooky was no trouble. See you later!” Taehyung quickly rambled, ready to grab Bogum when...

“Oof!” Taehyung gasped when something heavy was squeezing the life out of him.

“TATA!” a voice cried

Taehyung flinched. He recognized that voice.

He sighed and looked down at what was trapping him.

Go figure. Blue arms with yellow polka dots - just like he predicted.

“Why me?” Taehyung mumbled under his breath as TATA clung to him.

Bogum couldn’t complain about how clingy

he was since he clearly wasn’t as bad as the Daemons were.

“Wait... Tae?” the voice said startled. Taehyung strained to turn around to see a Jungkook wearing a black hat and sunglasses as well. His mouth was clearly hanging out of surprise. “Wh-what are you going here?”

Taehyung gave a smile back (it was more like grimace and gestured to their surroundings. He raised and eyebrow and teased, “What do you think?”

Jungkook flushed in response. A light red filled the younger’s cheeks. It was adorable. It made Taehyung smile.

(He wished the sunglasses weren’t there to obstruct the idol’s face. He wanted to see his eyes)

“Also,” Taehyung stated, “my name’s Kim Taehyung. Nice to meet you!”

Taehyung wiggled his hands a bit as a greeting. He would shake the other’s hands if he wasn’t so... tied up.

“Kim Taehyung,” Jungkook repeated back

(He had a thought that maybe Jungkook was trying to experiment with his name or trying to commit it to memory. He quickly shoved the ludicrous idea away)

Taehyung felt shivers down his spine from hearing his name from Jungkook.

It felt... different. It felt personal. It felt special.

Which was absurd since it was simply stating his name and Taehyung really needed some caffeine in his system. The lack of sleep was really getting to him and making him have such weird thoughts and delusions.

He needed to get out of here fast. He was now with TWO BTS members.

If someone catches wind of this, he is going to have soooo much drama at school. Not to mention crazy fans possibly trying to do something more drastic.

He definitely didn’t want some fans show up at his own

apartment - or even Bogum’s. He didn’t want to cause any trouble to his best friend

What was a polite way to excuse himself from the situation?

“No, no, no! Don’t go!” Taehyung could hear a high pitch sound beep loudly. He could understand the words clearly and pet the heart’s

head.

“Sorry. I gotta,” Taehyung admitted. Somehow, the Daemon read his mind. Maybe Taehyung was being too obvious. “I need to leave with Bogum soon.”

Well, maybe it wasn’t supposed to be THIS soon, but sooner the better.

He turned back to Jungkook and nodded his head to his

little problem.

Jungkook frowned. He was looking a bit disappointed

Taehyung quickly brushed the thought away as the idol gently pulled TATA away. The comforting warmth immediately vanished.

It was disappointing, but it was going to happen eventually anyways.

Taehyung could still feel goosebumps from when Jungkook accidentally brushed up when removing TATA. He shivered.

There was a moment of silence that was filled with RJ sipping some water. Loudly.

“Tae? Is everything okay?” Bogum walked up and asked while holding two cups.

The actor looked very unsure about the scene he interrupted. It was also shady that Taehyung was with two men wearing hats and sunglasses.

He was understandably worried.

But Bogum also had impeccable timing when needed. Thank goodness!

“Bogum, let’s go,” Taehyung said and

briskly left the store.

He had the feeling that Jin was burning a gaze into his back. That made Taehyung feel uncomfortable. Having more attention wasn’t good attention, especially with all the prejudice and bullying he’s had to deal with in the past

Having anymore attention

with BTS was a recipe for disaster. The artist could only hope that Jin was just a bit curious - that’s all. Nothing more, nothing less

In the background, Taehyung could feel complaining from the Daemons, who were quickly shushed by Jungkook to avoid making a big scene

“Tae... what just happened?” Bogum asked both unsurely and worriedly.

“...I don’t know either,” Taehyung sighed. He felt very drained and tired.

Bogum silently passed him his coffee. He didn’t even like coffee that much, but in this case, it was a gift sent form the heavens

Taehyung was grateful to have such a supportive friend like Bogum

“Don’t worry! Don’t worry!” Bomi cried happily as the dog playfully nudged Taehyung’s legs.

The Daemon tipped and yapped happily while the two best friends walked back. There were a few curious glances, but

it was a nice walk in the end.

Taehyung sipped his coffee quietly. He could only hope that everything would be a lot more calmer. And this coffee would help with his headaches as well

It wasn’t till that moment that it occurred to Taehyung that he hadn’t

it felt a single headache in the coffee shop.

Huh. That’s weird.

On the other hand, Seokjin was quietly noting that Taehyung could understand Cooky AND TATA. There was something going on here.

Not to mention that Jungkook and the Daemons were actually acting... normal

Hm.

~

Jungkook crosses his arms and scowled. He felt like a petulant child being scolded by his parents or his very concerned/overbearing family.

It didn’t help that said family gave in different shapes and sizes.

There was a mixture of concern and distress on all their faces as

they all tried to help in their own little way.

RJ was actually trying to shove a picnic basket at him to try and make him eat more. Shooky, on the other hand, was trying to make Jungkook laugh and joke around with his antics. In the end, the tiny Daemon bumped into the alpaca

and scattered the food.

Cue an argument over there. On the other hand, Koya was trying to silently shove a pillow in his direction.

Considering it was Koya’s favorite and lucky pillow, Jungkook would be lying if he said he wasn’t touched.

Mang just hopped on over and tucked

their head under Jungkook’s hand. The maknae automatically began the pet the horse.

In response, the Daemon’s tail began to wag up and down. It was so adorable that it almost made Jungkook want to smile.

Almost.

However, there was this bitter feeling swelling inside him.

It left this horrible taste in his mouth as his frustrations began to boil to an extreme. It was a confusing conflict of both wanting scream at the world and the burning desire to just cry alone.

Jungkook didn’t know what to think. He just... did.

AKA the reason why he was here

He ended up breaking a table (big crack and all) by slamming something down. After getting lectured at, Jungkook ended up crying himself to sleep.

The rest of his bandmates were at a loss. Cooky was destroying everything they touched out of anger, while TATA just sat on

Jungkook’s head. No sound, no reaction, no movement - just... nothing.

This was a second intervention, but no one honestly knew what was going on.

Everyone sat down and discussed the possibility to going to a psychologist. If it wasn’t something wrong with Jungkook, they could

at least learn if it was Daemon related with an appointment.

Everyone was going back in forth considering they might need to put out a statement if Jungkook does go. Not to mention that their comeback is coming up. It would be less than ideal for something to interrupt it

Considering how he puts pressure upon himself to succeed, Jungkook could also understand their concerns about if something does affect their comeback, he would blame himself.

Not a good habit, he admits, but dancing and singing were his passions after all.

Anyways, Jungkook has

a jerk for the past few days. He would admit that. His Daemons were also acting weird. Yeah, well, Daemons ARE a manifestation of the soul. Of course Cooky and TATA would be a acting weird.

Jungkook didn’t know how to help either, abides that this was the way he felt.

“I think I have the answer,” someone piped in. Everyone - even the chaotic (attempting to be helpful) Daemons turned around. - to look at a grinning Seokjin. The eldest adjusted his glasses with a smile.

“H-huh? You do??” Jimin yelped in surprise while the idol nodded.

“Think about it,” Seokjin said. “Before TATA, Cooky, and Jungkook began to act weird, what was happening?”

Everyone paused and titled their heads thoughtfully.

“Oh! I got it. It’s interviews! Jungkook is afraid of interviews!” Hoseok explains happily with a hint of pride

Seokjin shook his head and ruffled RJ’s fur.

“I am talkin about that kid we met during the concert. Then the next day, the theee of them began to act strangely. And earlier, we met him again. The next day, he was acting worse. It’s the only link.”

“Wait, that kid?” Yoongi asked with a frown on his face. He tilted his head, as if attempting to recall the person in question.

Suddenly, TATA sat up and beeped loudly. “TAEHYUNG, TAEHYUNG, TAEHYUNG!” the Daemon chanted loudly and excitedly.

TATA actually looked alive,

instead a possibly candidate for a zombie movie.

The sudden change of attitude startled everyone.

Shooky actually fell off the table, before Yoongi saved his Daemon.

Holding the little cookie in his hands, Yoongi exchanged a bewildered look with Namjoon. This was unexpected

“He’s saying Taehyung,” Jimin translated for the rest of the band members.

“Tae... Taehyung,” Namjoon mumbled under his breath. He gave a serious look at Seokjin. “Are you sure you think he’s the connection?”

Seokjin gave a firm nod and stared the leader dead into his eyes

“It’s the okay thing that makes sense right now. Unless Jungkook suddenly developed a fear of interviews, he’s our best shot. Not to mention that TATA was the one who brought him here. I was rather surprised he wasn’t an alien. He’s connected somehow, even if we don’t know why.”

Namjoon had a thoughtful look on his face as Koya ended up falling a asleep. Both were thinking very hard about the possibilities.

“If TATA and Cooky are acting weird... how about his Daemon then?” Namjoon questioned Seokjin. The eldest adjusted his glasses and shrugged

“He didn’t have his Daemon around when I saw him. Probably was somewhere else. Or maybe it was that dog,” Seokjin explained, but you could hear the doubt in his voice about their latter suggestion.

Jungkook sighed as TATA seemed to vibrate in excitement and Cooky actually perked

up in interest.

Taehyung... who exactly was he? How was he connected?

There was this burning feeling inside that was telling him...

“I want to seem again,” Jungkook loudly declared. He needed to. His gut was telling him that he should go see Taehyung as soon as possible

Everyone exchanged looks, before nodding.

“I need to go talk to the manager to see what we can dig on Taehyung. The rest of you guys should get ready. Jungkook, please go and rest as well. Take care of yourselves!” Namjoon told them, before darting out of the scene.

Everyone had a clear goal in mind.

The members seemed to relax more since they weren’t frantically trying to cheer Jungkook up or make plans with worries for their comeback.

Unfortunately, someone didn’t get the message.

Suddenly, Chimmy burst into the room waving its

harmonica proudly.

Having its usual grin on their face, the dog began to play its song.

TATA’s excitement settled down, before the Daemon plopped onto the couch and began to swing their legs as they listened to Chimmy’s music.

Things would work out eventually. He wasn’t alone.

Jungkook thought those words and then smiled. He was really thankful to have such an amazing family of both humans and Daemons.

~

“Taehyung, Taehyung, you are going to be okay,” Bogum gently said as he placed a hot towel on Taehyung’s head.

Taehyung grabbed the actor’s wrist

“Don’t you have work?” Taehyung croaked. His voice sounded so hoarse, he could hear. It even cracked.

Taehyung knew he looked as bad as he sounded, but he still tried to smile.

“Don’t worry about me. Your career is more important. I’ll be fine.”

Bogum immediately frowned.

“Don’t say that!” the actor gently scolded as he helped to wipe off some sweat. “Fainting is definitely not “fine” and missing a day of work won’t kill me.”

“But you have an important tv appearance!” Taehyung protested. It was supposed to be an appearance with other famous

actors. He could clearly remembered how thrilled Bogum was at the opportunity. Canceling at the last minute wasn’t good for his image at all.

Bogum sighed as he straightened Taehyung’s blanket.

“I can live a day without a tv appearance. My best idiotic friend comes first.”

Taehyung gave a small smile, before weakly shoving Bogum.

“You can’t at least be nice about it!” he said softly. “...but thanks.”

Bogum smiled. “Absolutely no problem.”

Taehyung knew why Bogum was here. After all, he only had his best friend to rely upon. He didn’t have any

other friends and his mom... Well, if his grandparents were still alive, Bogum would probably have more peace of mind.

It sucked. Bogum was such a loyal, kind friend that he was willing to sacrifice things for Taehyung. Taehyung wished he could make it up somehow.

Then, Taehyung groaned and covered his eyes when a light glared into his face.

“Please cover that!” Taehyung whined and rubbed his temples. The pain was simply unbearable. This fever wasn’t helping either

Bogum sighed worriedly as he stood up. He began to turn off all the

lights and close all the curtains.

“I CANNOT believe that the doctor said you just needed rest. There is something clearly very much wrong with you,” Bogum grumbled. The actor kept alternating checking his phone and tending to Taehyung.

Taehyung couldn’t help but be curious

“What’s going on? You seem really preoccupied?” Taehyung tried to strain his neck to peak, but winced when he felt the headache’s pain flare up.

“Don’t worry about it. Just rest,” Bogum brushed off and smiled.

Taehyung simply nodded, but was worried. Bogum looked really...

stressed? For an actor, Bogum was awfully transparent at times.

“Sleep! Rest! So we can play more and more later!” an excitable voice said at the bottom of Taehyung’s bed.

Taehyung gave a small smile. “We will soon, Bomi,” Taehyung promised to the dog Daemon.

Bogum looked back at his phone. He had a hesitant, torn look on his face that Taehyung didn’t quite catch

Bogum opened his mouth, but was interrupted by the doorbell. The actor frowned, but motioned for Taehyung not to move.

The other walked out and opened the door.

Bogum was honestly expecting the kind old lady neighbor. Maybe some delivery person.

However, the last thing he expected were these big body guides. In particular though, who those bodyguards were protecting

Bogum stared at an awfully disguised Jimin, Seokjin, and Namjoon.

“...Are you guys serious?” Bogum hesitantly asked. “How did your stylists let you walk out?”

“Huh? We are totally conspicuous!” Jimin piped up - looking way too happy for wearing a Shooky costume. Except that the material looked like it was bootlegged off of some random shop.

It instead looked like a sad, wrinkled up cookie in the odd shade of a bright fuschia. Definitely not eyedrawing and out of place at all.

At least it wasn’t Seokjin’s. The eldest was literally wearing a mustache with a sombrero. He was proudly holding a... triangle?

Namjoon, on the other hand, was wearing a grandma wig with a beard.

However, the grandma wig was tilted and the beard was a rip off Santa beard.

All in all, really cheap and terrible disguises that - as an actor - Bogum couldn’t help but be ashamed for them.

Bogum pinched his nose and sighed.

“Excuse me, Jimin, Seokjin, and Namjoon, but those disguises are awful. There are no other way to put it,” Bogum said bluntly. “I am actually tempted to pay you guys to get OUT of those outfits.”

The three gasped as if Bogum dropped a bomb of

revelation.

“We’re not those three you speak of!” Namjoon calmly said - lying through his teeth. “We are a... traveling talent group spreading our skills to the world!”

“...A traveling talent group.”

“Yeah.”

“...Seokjin, do you know how to play a triangle.”

“Of course I do!”

“...”

“...”

“...Why aren’t you playing it?”

“...I don’t have the mental bar to hit the triangle with.”

At this point, Namjoon, realizing the awful lies and disguises were in vain, sighed tiredly and gave a sheepish smile.

Jimin simply smirked in amusement.

Bogum shook his head. Typical Slytherin.

“Come on in. I don’t expect that members of BTS aren’t wearing such disguises without reason. Unless this is all a prank, which I then say, good job. Except I can’t forgive Jimin for that color and the lack of Chimmy support,” Bogum

said in a serious tone, but you could see the twinkle of mischief in his eyes.

Jimin tilted his head back and laughed. He gave a bright smile.

“I thought perhaps the Shooky costume would be a lot less inconspicuous than Chimmy, Koya. RJ, Mang, or such.”

“...you chose a bright

colored costume. As a less conspicuous option.” Bogum couldn’t believe his ears.

Jimin smiled innocently. “Of course!”

At this point, Seokjin was laughing really hard and Namjoon just looked really tired.

Poor Namjoon. Likely, the costumes weren’t the leader’s idea.

“Sorry for intruding,” Namjoon apologized. Seokjin and Jimin followed.

“Don’t worry about it,” Bogum brushed off. “Have a seat. I want to know why you guys are here first. I mean, I don’t imagine your biggest boy group decided that I was the missing piece for your group.”

Namjook chuckled at this group, while Jimin shouted supportive words for Bogum in the background.

“Yeah... Actually, it’s about Tae? T-Taehyung, I believe?” Namjoon asked unsurely.

Bogum blinked in surprise.

Huh. That wasn’t what he expected.

He narrowed his eyes.

“What do you want with Tae?” he asked sharply. He was willing to raise an army if it meant protecting his best friend.

Seokjin immediately jumped in and exclaimed, “Don’t worry about it! Don’t worry about it! It isn’t anything bad!” The eldest’s mustache fell off

“Yeah!” Jimin agreed. Honestly, Bogum couldn’t take the idol seriously in such a costume

“We just wanted to know if... Taehyung has been feeling unwell the last few days? Perhaps gotten worse?” Namjoon asked gently.

Bogum’s mouth dropped open. “H-how did you-“ he stammered

The trio traded looks at each other.

“Well, actually... we think we know the reason,” Namjoon exclaimed, but was cut off by a concerned Bogum.

“Did he catch some kind of illness? Has he not been eating well enough! Or-“

“We think it is related to Jungkook!” Namjoon blurted out

Bogum had a serious look on his face as he stared down the trio.

“This sounds like this might be a very interesting theory,” the actor drawled and leaned in. “Mind explaining?”

They exchanged glances. Seokjin and Jimin shrugged and pointed at Namjoon. The leader sighed in

defeat.

“Well, Jungkook has been acting strange. The same goes with his two Daemons. Do you know about them?” Namjoon exclaimed hesitantly. After all, the tension was brewing.

For such a nice guy, Namjoon had the feeling that Bogum was staring down his soul.

Bogum raised an eyebrow, before nodding. “Who doesn’t?” he laughed. Because, after all, that was true. Jungkook was already worldwide famous, not only for his talents, but for merely existing.

It was no exaggeration that people saw having multiple Daemons as a sign for

being a god, or blessed, or special, or royalty. The idea dated back to centuries, and still believed today.

Cooky and TATA. Jungkook.

The famous trio. The same trio that these BTS members may possibly dragging Taehyung into for more trouble if Bogum wasn’t careful

“Anyways,” Bogum asked, looking intrigued. “What do you mean weird and how is it connected with Taehyung?”

“Well, Cooky has been really angry and TATA has been really depressed. Jungkook is the same. And then it got worse later on. You said something similar happened with

Taehyung?” Jimin piped into the conversation. The idol has a very serious look on his face, which was a bit unnerving when not related to performances.

Bogum frowned, but hesitantly nodded. In all honesty, the actor wasn’t quite sure if he wanted to know how this was related to

his best friend. He had a gut feeling that this was going to go wrong

(Not to mention the worry about the words he hasn’t had the courage nor time to tell Taehyung about his mom...)

“Taehyung has been getting terrible headaches... he told me it was fine and that he would

go see the doctor later. But it got to the point that, well...” Bogum trailed off and shrugged. Taehyung was in a lot more pain now than before. “He fainted and now has a fever. The doctor said he only needs rest...”

“But you don’t believe him,” Namjoon finished for Bogum.

The actor nodded. That was an understatement.

Seokjin grinned. “This is where my theory comes in!” the eldest proudly proclaimed. “Taehyung and Jungkook both started to act strange or get sick AFTER they met. Right? Right? And then, later, they got worse when they met for a

second time. They have to be connected somehow!”

Namjoon nodded in agreement. “He’s right. May I ask how does Taehyung’s Daemon feel at the moment? Are they also very sick?”

A bitter feeling lashed in Bogum’s chest. He was scared and worried for Taehyung. Would this idol

group - no matter the messages they spread - treat Taehyung the same after saying the truth?

Bogum sighed. He had a feeling the truth would be yanked out of him sooner or later.

“Taehyung doesn’t have a Daemon,” he finally admitted. He didn’t want to say it.

He had already seen the effect those words had on his best friend.

The celebrities looked shocked. The idea never crossed their minds.

Bogum gave them a sharp glare and they flinched. He smiled, pleased. After all, the nice ones are the ones you have to look out for.

“Don’t worry, it is not a problem with us,” Namjoon immediately reassured.

Bogum gave a small smile. He knew that, but he also wanted to make sure.

“That is one scary glare,” Seokjin mumbled softly.

Bogum had to stifle a laugh.

“Anyways, are we assuming that Taehyung’s

sickness and Jungkook’s attitude connected somehow?” Bogum curiously asked.

Jimin straightened his back and nodded. “I think we are all pretty sure, right?” he asked and the other two nodded.

“I was thinking... maybe bringing Jungkook here might help.

After all, when they met, it trigged... all of this. After they depart, it gets worse. It isn’t like anything I’ve heard. I am wondering... Jin thought that being together is the cure. Taehyung isn’t in any condition to leave, either, so this is the best option,” Namjoon offered

Bogum scratched his head.

In all honesty, he wasn’t quite sure if this all would actually even work. Was it really possible that his best friend was somehow “connected” to a famous idol?

But at the same time, did they have anything to lose?

The actor contemplated the

backlash of sudden scrutiny compared to Taehyung’s sudden illness.

Both didn’t exactly sound very nice, but illnesses were more life threatening.

Bogum sighed. Making major decisions sucked.

Well, there was no use of contemplating possibilities. Considering the idols were all

in (terrible) disguises, there was no guarantee anyone actually tracked them all down.

Taehyung, on the other hand, was getting worse.

“Yeah, we might as well try that,” Bogum finally agreed. He could only hope that everything would work out for both him and Tae.

Jimin beamed at him, while Seokjin sighed in relief with a small smile.

Namjoon gave Bogum an understanding look. He could probably understand that the actor had a lot of worries going through his mind.

“If anything goes wrong, we’ll help you,” Namjoon promised.

Bogum smiled.

“Thanks. I mean, I’m somewhat popular and all, but most people don’t really care about Tae since he isn’t in the fame like me. Ever since your concert... he’s been thrusted into the spotlight. I don’t want it to get any worse. You guys understand?”

“Don’t worry. We totally do,” Seokjin said and gave him a sympathizing look. “We’ve all had the experience of the spotlight being hard on our family or friends. We wouldn’t wish it upon Taehyung, especially if he doesn’t want to be dragged into it.”

The other two members nodded.

“Also, don’t call yourself “somewhat” popular,” Jimin encouragingly insisted. “Take more pride in yourself!”

Bogum blinked in surprise, before grinning. He felt touched by the kindness of these idols.

“Anyways, you better call Jungkook here and make him wear a disguise as well.

Be as discreet as possible. The sooner we can get this over with, the better,” Bogum politely reminded them. He anxiously glanced at his watch.

Time was ticking.

And at those words, everything was set off in a flurry. Members called Jungkook, other BTS members, managers, etc.

All to ensure this little experiment was done as quietly and quickly as possible for the safety of both Jungkook and Taehyung.

(Politely said, scandals sucked.)

They had to wait a while since Jungkook was taking the long route to avoid any unwanted followers.

However, the moment arrived when someone finally knocked on the door.

Bogum quickly opened the door to see a tired Jungkook holding Cooky and TATA in his arms.

However, he also had Koya sleepily clinging to his head, Chimmy hiding behind his legs, and RJ politely standing

next to the idol

“They missed their owners,” Jungkook simply explained as he walked into the apartment bringing a group of Daemons with him.

Jungkook gently placed a pouting Cooky and very quiet TATA on the couch.

Chimmy rushed to Jimin and tackled his owner. There was a grunt

before a light laugh as Jimin spun his Daemon around.

RJ just walked into the place like he owned it and sat in Seokjin’s lap.

Koya, in the other hand, had to be gently moved from their perch in Jungkook’s head to Namjoon’s arms.

It was an endearing sight, Bogum would admit.

It was also really sweet how comfortable the Daemons felt being touched by someone else. It just showed how deep the group’s bond ran, he thought as he strokes his own Daemon’s head.

Jungkook stood standing and looked a bit anxious.

“So you think this might really work?”

he asked nervously. The idol fiddled with his bright colored sweater paws. He paused for a moment, before he took off his sunglasses and fiddled with those instead.

(Jungkook’s disguise was a lot more simpler and less weird than the trio’s, but it still worked since bright

colors wasn’t typically his style. Sometimes, all you need is a sweater, hat, and glasses. You don’t need to wear an entire costume of a Daemon *cough cough Jimin cough cough*)

“That’s the plan. We hope that if you spend a few moments with Taehyung... we can at least

confirm our suspicions,” Namjoon explained to a very nervous Jungkook.

Jungkook took a deep breath.

Cooky suddenly sat up and started to ramble excitedly, but Bogum could only understand hear squeaks. He assumed it was something encouraging since everyone else either laughed or

applauded.

There was no time like the present then.

Bogum sat up and motioned for Jungkook to follow him.

He guided Jungkook to where Taehyung was sleeping.

Bogum gave an encouragingly smile, before opening the door and pushing Jungkook in before he could change his mind.

The door shut closed.

Bogum closed his eyes, hoping everything would work for the best, before walking away.

He didn’t want to eavesdrop, but hopefully this wouldn’t take too long to hear the results.

The group expected Jungkook to be in and out quickly.

That didn’t happen.

Instead, they ended up waiting for 40 minutes. Everyone was getting really worried and antsy.

It got to the point where Jimin quietly suggested to pull Jungkook of the room and get an update.

They didn’t know what to expect, but everyone hesitantly agreed.

Namjoon sat up.

The leader gently picked up his Dameon first and rested the sleeping koala onto RJ. Adorably, Koya used a napping RJ as a pillow.

Bogum wanted to clutch his heart. It was too cute for this world

Namjoon gave them a small smile, before departing to pull Jungkook out of the room

What happened next was what something none of them expected

They heard yelling and shouting.

Bogum traded worried glances with the other members. After all, Jungkook respected Namjoon the most since the very start. Most fans knew that very well.

So why the arguing?

A distressed Namjoon pulled a fuming, volatile Jungkook into the living room.

The leader gave them baffled looks. They returned those looks. After all, Jungkook was giving them the glares of death. Cooky looked like they were ready to use their weights as weapons instead.

What was going on here!?

What was most unnerving was TATA. TATA wasn’t angry unlike their owner. That made it an even more peculiar sight. The usually happy Daemon burst into tears and was crying. They were sobbing. Hard.

They were all bewildered. They were all frozen.

No one could grasp what exactly was going on. They could only stare at a furious Jungkook.

Suddenly, there was sobbing coming from the hallways. It came closer and closer.

Bogum could only gape at a red eyed Taehyung, who was previously very sick and shouldn’t be out of bed

The artist was weeping and wiping his tears, before crumbling to the floor and sobbing loudly

Jungkook broke out of Namjoon’s gripe, before rushing to Taehyung’s side. Jungkook hugged Taehyung tightly and was whispering into his ears

The sobs and anger quieted to a halt

wHAT?!

Seokjin and Jimin looked speechless, while Namjoon looked like he was contemplating something hard. Maybe his life choices.

It was all so bewildering and confusing to the entire audience witnessing this scene, Bogum really felt like he had life bonding moment with the group.

POLL:

Do you guys want to know what exactly happened in that room in detailed writing/POV and all or would you rather just move forward with the plot and have it be just talked later?

The slow burn is hard, so idk if anyone really wants something more detailed or not

~

The door shut with a loud audible click in the silence of the room.

The room was dimly lit with the curtains closed. The star nightlight painted shadows of stars on the wall and illuminated a path for Jungkook.

It was a path that Jungkook had no choice but to take.

“It’ll be fine! It’ll be fine!” Cooky repeated over and over. “We can do this!” The bunny Daemon was acting like this was simply a challenge that needed to be met.

Not at all that Jungkook was invading a (pretty) stranger’s room and everyone else was just...

expecting that something MAGICAL would happen.

As if that was even possible. Jungkook was simply unsure what he was exactly supposed to do. He - somehow - managed to gather the courage to be here.

In all honesty, his Daemons seemed to be a lot more energetic and braver than

he was.

Cooky cocked an eyebrow and walked straight into Taehyung’s bedroom. Cooky literally didn’t even pause to think about it.

The Daemon just... walk straight in. Towards Taehyung’s bed.

Jungkook sighed and pet TATA’s head.

“Looks like it’s just you and me then,”

Jungkook said to the very despondent alien. TATA just gave him a blank response and no reaction.

Jungkook sighed and picked up the Daemon and walked after Cooky.

Cooky was already trying to climb into Taehyung’s bed. Taehyung (the beautiful angel, his mind inserted without

Jungkook’s permission) was sleeping soundly. The other didn’t even stir from all the commotion.

“I wanna- I wanna-!” Cooky mumbled as the bunny tried - and failed - to get onto the bed.

The Daemon then turned to Jungkook with moping look on their face.

Jungkook sighed.

He decided to ignore both Daemons. Indulging in their antics wouldn’t help right now.

Jungkook pulled up a chair and sat down next to Taehyung. He tilted his head. Cooky imitated Jungkook.

Taehyung was snoring softly and hugging a pillow tightly. Some hair strands were

covering his eyes.

There was a towel on his forehead.

Taehyung was sick.

Jungkook honestly wasn’t quite sure what to think about all of... this.

“Did you really get sick because of me...?” Jungkook mumbled outloud.

He didn’t like seeing the other in bed. He would much prefer

to see Taehyung’s happy smile and bright eyes. This contrasting scene just made Jungkook feel like... Taehyung was on his deathbed or something.

The thought gave Jungkook shivers.

The idol reached out for the towel and gently picked it up. He wanted to change it.

He didn’t expect from the first skin contact to cause a tingle down his spine.

Jungkook dropped the towel out of surprise.

Taehyung’s eyes snapped open. The student yawned loudly and rubbed his eyes sleepily. He then turned and looked at Jungkook.

He blinked several times.

“Am I dreaming?” Taehyung mumbled outloud, before yawning again and rubbing his eyes.

Jungkook hesitated. “No, you aren’t dreaming.”

Taehyung blinked at him.

There was a pause of awkward silence.

“No, I’m quite sure I am dreaming that Jeon Jungkook is somehow in my bedroom.”

“No, again, you aren’t dreaming.”

Taehyung was staring at Jungkook with a puzzled look mixed with disbelief.

Jungkook shifted uncomfortably. Maybe it was the way Taehyung was looking at him. Maybe it was because his fingers kept twitching to touch Taehyung again and just that

something felt w r o n g

The silence was interrupted by the two Daemons.

Long arms wrapped themselves around Taehyung, before said owner of the arms launched themselves into Taehyung’s chest.

Taehyung grunted in surprise as a heart shaped Daemon blinked at Taehyung innocently

“Tae! Tae! Tae! You’re here! You’re here!” TATA cried excitedly and cuddled into the art student’s embrace.

It was a scene reminiscing what happened in the coffee shop.

Jungkook was speechless. TATA previously had... no life for the past few days.

This is the most lively

Jungkook has seen the Daemon act for a while.

And it was for another person at that.

Cooky, as well, also managed to climb their way onto the bed and join the dogpile.

Cooky fought their way into the embrace to be sandwiched by a chattery TATA and bewildered Taehyung

“This... isn’t normal. I promise,” Jungkook mumbled in a bit of a daze.

Taehyung also stared at the two Daemons looking at him with such hopeful eyes.

“Where have you been? Please don’t leave again. Please don’t leave me,” Cooky said pleadingly. Cooky hid their face into

Taehyung’s chest.

TATA piped in their own thoughts, but the only words Jungoook could grasp were: waiting, long time, and mine. He could only assume that it was something along the lines of what Cooky was saying.

Something changed in Taehyung’s expression at those words.

Taehyung gave a small, shy smile and reassured both Daemons, “I’m not going anywhere.”

“You promise?” Cooky mumbled into Taehyung’s chest.

Taehyung nodded and gently pet both Daemons. “Mhm. I promise.”

There was something so endearing about the scene Jungkook was witnessing.

It was so personal... and special.

It just felt right to see Taehyung with TATA and Cooky.

Taehyung then looked at Jungkook with a serious look on his face. Jungkook flinched.

“Mind explaining what is going on and why you are here?” Taehyung asked bluntly.

Jungkook smiled

sheepishly.

“Well...” Jungoook began, before launching into an explanation about all the theories, how they ended up here at the apartment, etc.

Taehyung listened the entire time.

“So... all the others think this is all connected and something magically happen right now?”

Jungkook shrugged and nodded. “Basically.”

Taehyung then giggled - seeming happy and excited.

“I’ve always believed in magic!” Taehyung exclaimed excitedly with a twinkle of curiosity in his eyes.

Jungkook looked at him questioningly. “Well, what do you want to then...?”

Taehyung tilted his head thoughtfully, before suggesting the following, “Let’s kiss?”

Jungkook immediately started choking on air. Why did Taehyung seemingly just suggest that without any thought!?

Taehyung then laughed and smiled. He had a mischievous look in his eyes.

“I’m teasing, I’m teasing. We don’t have to kiss. You’re an idol, after all,” Taehyung reassured him with an understanding look.

Jungkook deflated a bit.

(Okay, maybe he was a bit excited at the idea. Maybe a lot.)

Then, a more serious look hardened in Taehyung’s eyes.

“But I was a bit serious. Let try some contact. Maybe holding hands?” Taehyung suggested.

Jungkook nodded. He didn’t trust hinself to speak anyways.

The two hesitantly reached out to hold hands.

It felt like something snapping into place and Jungkook felt tingles

all over his body. He felt dazed.

Seeing the same look on Taehyung’s face, Jungkook could understand the other felt the same

This didn’t happen last time when Taehyung sat in his lap, but the feeling of rightness was there all the same.

Both didn’t notice their Daemons glowing

~

“...” Yoongi simply sighed and looked away. He felt like this was going to become a very troublesome situation.

“...Are they okay?” Hoseok asked more worriedly while Yoongi simply turned and walked away. The producer was too tired to deal with this all right now

Hoseok scratched his head and Mang imitated his reaction. The pair both then leaned in closer to inspect the scene

Namjoon, Seokjin, Jimin, and Bogum all turned to each other and sighed in sync.

“They’ve been like that the entire time since we brought them over here,” Namjoon

muttered in complete defeat.

Hoseok, seeing the anxious mood in the room, grinned happily before bounding towards the moping group.

“I’m sure everything will be fine!” the idol exclaimed encouragingly. Mang wagged their tail and nodded.

“We hope so,” the group said in sync

Hoseok flinched in surprise. The fact that everyone was saying/doing everything in sync was... terrifying.

Creepy.

...

Maybe they were possessed?

Hoseok took a step away from the group, but no one had noticed.

They were too engrossed with worries about Jungkook and Taehyung

“Everytime we separate them, they react badly. This isn’t normal. We need to do something about it,” Namjoon told the group and everyone else nodded in agreement.

“Not to mention what if something work-related comes up? Imagine having to do a photo shoot with Jungkook ready to

destroy everything in his path...” Jimin murmured and everyone shuddered at the thought. He then gave a pointed look at Seokjin. “Stop feeding him so much!” Jimin teasingly complained.

“I wish! That brat is going to grow into a giant at this rate,” the eldest sighed fondly

“I just can’t understand it though. Why are they acting like this?” Bogum said seriously and brought everyone else back to reality.

They all slumped in defeat.

“Are their Daemons also affected?” Hoseok asked curiously and everyone nodded in confirmation.

“Daemons...” Namjoon

stated and tilted his head thoughtfully. “I’ll look into the matter later. Anyways, in all seriousness, Taehying and Jungkook can’t stop holding each other. The moment we try separating them, they and their Daemons react badly. At the moment, I think we just have to leave them.”

“Isn’t that going to interfere with our schedule?” Jimin asked worriedly.

“I’ll go with Namjoon to talk with the managers and update them about the... situation,” Seokjin piped in. Namjoon nodded in approval.

“Don’t worry. I’ll get it all settled out. In the morning... we’ll

see how they both are. Tomorrow, we’ll figure it out from there. As a group. Oh, and that includes you, Bogum. We need you in the loop for Taehyung since we don’t know anything about his family,” Namjoon said before turning to Bogum.

The actor flinched at the words. Tae’s family

With everything going on, Bogum still hasn’t mentioned anything to Tae’s family or about Tae’s family.

His phone felt like it was burning in his pocket out of guilt.

He tried to shrug it off and gave the others a smile. “Sure, I will later!”

That was a lie, but that wasn’t any

of those business. Tae’s family was a land mine that he had no desire on stepping on without Taehyung’s permission.

Everyone awkwardly starts to say their goodbyes and depart. Obviously, everyone is just drained from what was going on.

Knowing BTS’s schedule, this might make a

huge mess, Bogum knew. He felt bad for the idol group.

If Taehyung and Jungkook couldn’t stop clinging to each other (that’s a phrase he never thought he would say in his life), the schedule is going to fall apart. Whether the managers knew or not, it didn’t reallly matter.

The real concern were the fans.

Bogum knew fans would be very worried if any statement was issued out. If any fans kept digging...

Bogum sighed. This was an entire mess. It was spiraling out of control.

Would waiting till tomorrow really make any difference? This was obviously

not normal behavior.

Bogum couldn’t help but wonder if it had to do with Taehyung’s lack of having a Daemon...

It was a topic he didn’t want to bring up to the other ever again.

He could vividly remember the hopeful smile about having a Daemon, the impact of the car accident

on Taehyung’s family, and then the heartbroken realization that Taehyung would never have a Daemon.

But in all honesty, Bogum felt in his gut that this was the reason why this... was all happening. The only thing different about Taehyung was not having a Daemon.

Bogum shook his

head. He didn’t want to go down this train of thought any longer. It would just bring back horrible thoughts and memories.

Bogum just wished he was stronger to protect his best friend.

Bogum waved a goodbye to a very confused Hoseok and a tired Jimin.

The actor left. After all - unfortunately - he had a guest to pick up soon. He needed to make the right preparations.

~

Taehyung was ready to rip his hair out. He had no idea what was going on anymore.

Yesterday felt like a blur. He could hardly remember anything that happened

It felt like something important happened, but for the life of him, Taehyung couldn’t remember anything.

Imagine his surprise to wake up with JEON FREAKING JUNGKOOK IN HIS BED.

Cooky and TATA were all joining the cuddling pile, but at that point, Taehyung was having mini

heart attack.

How do you approach this sort of situation??? Like hey, I don’t really know you and you’re famous and all and all, but you are kinda in my bed and I’m worried what happened. Mind clarifying?

Was he even allowed to wake the guy up???

Luckily (or unluckily), Jungkook woke up for him.

The idol blinked at the college student several times.

Taehyung gave a sheepish smile.

“Hi?”

Jungkook had a very puzzled look on his face, before realizing he was hugging Taehyung in his own bed

Taehyung was then promptly shoved off the bed.

Taehyung groaned and rubbed his butt. Jungkook looked paralyzed out of shock.

“Wh-what- I, uh, I-!” Jungkook stammered.

Taehyung sighed, but plastered a smile on his face.

“Don’t worry about it!” he lied. “Anyways, don’t feel

worry about it. I am a cuddler, after all. Also, um... why are you here?”

Jungkook crinkled his forehead. His nose twitched at the Jungoook tried to recall things.

“I... don’t really remember,” Jungkook admitted with a frown on his face. “Everything feels really foggy?”

Taehyung gapped. “You too?”

Jungkook nodded, before smiling. “But at the same time, I feel really... refreshed. Like the best I’ve felt in a long time!” The idol was beaming at him.

Taehyung felt shy with such a bright smile directed towards him, but he nodded in agreement

“I’ve been feeling awful, lately,” Taehyung admitted. “Sick and all. I don’t know why, but... I honestly feel a lot better. I was bedridden yesterday, but I feel perfectly fine today. Did you do something? Whatever you did, thank you!”

Jungkook shrugged, but smile softly at him.

“Don’t thank me for something I don’t even remember,” Jungkook laughed sheepishly.

The two exchanged smiles and the mood just felt so... nice.

Too bad it was interrupted too quickly.

“TAE TAE TAE TAE!” TATA cried loudly and wrapped their arms to smoosh Taehyung and Jungkook

together in a tight hug. “Hi! Hi! Hi! How are you? What are you doing? How are you feeling? What is your favorite color? What is your favorite anime? How did you get your name? Do you have any pets? Can we spend more time with you?”

TATA slammed the trapped duo with a lot of

beeps and excitable chatter.

Jungkook sighed in fond exasperation. Honestly, it was way too early for this, but TATA just went at their own pace sometimes.

Cooky poked Jungkook with a pout on the bunny’s face.

“I wanna be in the hug too,” the daemon shyly mumbled.

Jungkook gave Cooky a shrug since he couldn’t do anything since

a) he was trapped and it wasn’t much of a big in all honesty than a death gripe

b) Jungkook couldn’t even hear himself think over TATA’s chattering.

TATA was so excitable. From what Jungkook could recall,

TATA was been depressed just yesterday. What happened in one night?

Jungkook frowned, feeling quite puzzled, before sighing defeatedly. TATA’s talking was simply getting too much.

“TATA, can you perhaps ask the questions a bit slower? It’s pretty early right now. Taehyung

probably feels really tired and being overwhelmed by questions might be too much,” Jungkook stated gently.

TATA paused for a moment, contemplating what Jungkook said, before smiling widely. “That’s fine! That’s fine! As long as I get to spend time with TaeTae!” they declared

before releasing them from the hug.

Cooky padded over to Taehyung and tugged softly at his shirt.

“You promised you wouldn’t leave me, right? You promise you won’t leave us, right? You aren’t going to leave now since TATA isn’t hugging you anymore, right?” Cooky said softly

Taehyung felt like Cupid shot an arrow directly at his heart.

Cooky seems like such a strong, muscle bunny. Yet, all the moments Taehyung has met them, Cooky has been such a sweetheart.

Taehyung was almost ready to just grab the bunny and run away

“Of course!” he reassured,

even though he had no memory of such a promise.

Cooky beamed at him, before hopping off the bed. TATA peered curiously at the other’s actions.

“The others are already here!” Cooky declared loudly and TATA waved their arms around excitedly.

The duo quickly ran to Taehyung’s

door and TATA’s stretching arms allowed the two Daemons to escape before anyone could say anything.

“...so that happened,” Taehyung said a bit dumbfounded.

Jungkook smiles fondly. “They’re quite something, aren’t they?”

Something inside Taehyung melted. “They are,” he agreed.

He then frowned puzzedly. “What did Cooky mean by “others” though?”

Jungkook raised an eyebrow, as if saying “Who do you think?”

Which, true. If Jungkook was here, it was pretty obvious how the visitors could possibly be to warrant such an enthusiastic reaction

“Shall we face the audience then, Golden Maknae?” Taehyung teases and nudged Jungkook playfully.

There was something relaxing about being in Jungkook’s presence. It felt nice being near him, Taehyung thought, before tucking the idea way for later

“Let’s go then!” Jungkook said

The two of them quickly exited the bedroom, wearing their clothes from yesterday, to meet the rest of the BTS gang eating breakfast in Taehyung and Bogum’s small, but cozy apartment.

The place was just meant to hold this many people AND daemons at once.

There was a silence when

everyone saw them.

Then-

“They’re still holding hands!” Jimin hollered while mumbling on a piece of toast. Chimmy simply tilted their head with their tongue hanging out.

Yoongi sighed defeatedly while Hoseok and Mang peered at the duo with interest

“Ooh! You’re right!”

“Well, we’re back at square one then,” Jin said while picking up a piece of meat with his chopsticks. “So much for hoping that was a one time freak out thing.”

“At least they are just holding hands,” Namjoon pointed out before sipping some cucumber soup. The leader passed a

plate to Bogum. The actor smiled thankfully before grabbing some delicious breakfast

“Can you guys telling me what’s going on?” Jungkook sounded a bit strangled from shock. “What do you mean by holding hands? At least?”

Namjoon looked a bit shocked. “You don’t remember? The

two of you can’t let go hands without having some... meltdown of sorts. We tried sorting things out, but we ended up bringing you guys back here since there are less eyes around here. Here is the best place to hash out the plan since, obviously, something is up.”

Both blinked. They looked at each other, before staring back at the group in utter confusion.

“...what?” Jungkook finally said. That didn’t answer anything at all and left more questions.

Taehyung looked around in confusion and exchanged looks with Bogum. His best friend

simply shrugged and gave an awkward smile.

“Why don’t we just have them do a demonstration?” Yoongi asked in a tired voice.

“...Do we want another freak out?” Hoseok said, looking both unsure and a bit frightened

“It might be good to know the... parameters of all of this. Is

it limited to them being simply apart or maybe us trying to force them apart?” Namjoon said thoughtfully outloud.

“Yeah... the entire night, we did try to pry them apart,” Seokjin said in an exasperated tone. “You guys really made me lose a lot of sleep!”

Taehyung and Jungkook

were still very much lost.

The BTS members exchanged looks.

“Yoongi and Jin, you grab Jungkook. Jimin and Hoseok, you both take Taehyung,” Namjoon ordered abruptly and the entire group advanced on the duo.

Taehyung took a step back, feeling quite overwhelmed. He felt scared

Jungkook’s hand tightened.

“Hey, what are you guys doing!?” Jungkook loudly protested, but his shouts fell on deaf ears.

Both teams ripped Jungkook and Taehyung forcibly apart and both felt a violent pain throughout their bodies.

Taehyung felt a pain in his chest and felt

...cold. Really really really cold. He felt his emotions overwhelm him like those times when he would hide in his room and cry after his classmates bullied him.

But this time, he was crying because he missed Jungkook. Taehyung couldn’t explain it, but it felt like something

important was taken from him. He couldn’t handle it and the tears would stop.

Jungkook’s mind was blinded by pure anger and rage. He started to yell and thrash around. Yoongi and Seokjin flinched from the pain as they tried to restrain their friend.

“I don’t think we can hold

him for long!” Seokjin yelled out loudly towards the leader, but Namjoon wasn’t paying attention. Namjoon was watching something else in particular

TATA and Cooky were tightly clinging to each other and trembling.

“You can let them go!” Namjoon said and everyone sighed in

relief when Taehyung ran into Jungkook’s arms.

Both were trembling and obviously both shaken up. However, once the two of them calmed down, they immediately leaped apart.

“Wh-what just happened!?” Taehyung stammered in confusion. “I- I’m so sorry, Jungkook, for hugging you!”

“Did I... attack my hyungs?” Jungkook said in a daze, but had a really guilty look on his face. The maknae seemed to be kicking himself for what he had done towards people he considered his brothers and a family

“Looks like you guys aren’t really aware of your actions... and

looks like you can be apart for a while if you are willing. We need to investigate this more, especially with THAT matter,” Namjoon murmured under his breathe, before turning to Jungkook and put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Jungkook, you have nothing to apologize for,

especially if you aren’t in control of your own actions. We don’t know what’s going on, but together, we can get through it,” Namjoon promised to the shaken up younger.

Jungkook nodded slowly.

“However, the two of you will have to stay together. We might have to arrange...

other living arrangements till we get this all sorted out,” Namjoon calmly suggested.

It only took a few moments before the reality sunk in for both Jungkook and Taehyung and the two of them exploded

“DO YOU MEAN WE HAVE TO LIVE TOGETHER!?” They cried out loudly.

“Yes.”

~

“So... what do we do now?” Jungkook said looking very overwhelmed at the empty luxury apartment

“We need to decorate it!” Taehyung happily replied back

“But how should we decorate this?” Jungkook frowned

This was their first challenge living together. TATA and Cooky smiled.

The two Daemon sat surprisingly very quietly, watching the chaos unfold.

Taehyung and Jungkook began to bicker in the living room. Cooky sighed and TATA nudged the bunny Daemon.

TATA grinned mischievously and pointed towards another empty room. It was a suggestion of escape

Cooky smirked and nodded. It was better than watching these two run around in circles.

Cooky and TATA jumped off the kitchen counter and ran towards the bedroom. The duo plopped down and looked at each other.

They could hear Jungkook and Taehyung’s spat even with the door

closed

“Jungkook is really oblivious,” Cooky sighed. They walked around and kicked some trash left on the floor. “For someone who is so brilliant and talented, it’s disappointing that he hasn’t put the pieces together.”

TATA nodded in agreement

“Taehyung is finally here!!!

Why aren’t they running into each other’s arms yet!?” the alien complained with a pout. “Especially since we’ve both been waiting for so long...”

Cooky gave TATA a look.

“You didn’t even know Taehyung existed until the concert!” Cooky protested. If TATA knew, they should’ve

brought him into their lives a lot sooner!

TATA moped. “I always had a feeeeeling though! All of us knew something was wrong... and I had this hunch. But who knew opening the portal would work!”

“...You did that on a whim, didn’t you.”

“That isn’t the point~ The point is,

we’ve all been waiting and we finally have TaeTae with us. We can’t let him leave again. The bond isn’t finished yet...” TATA worriedly trailed off. The daemon was thinking really hard about the entire situation.

Cooky could see how, despite TATA being... TATA, the alien was

terrified of the thought that Taehyung would leave them.

Cooky walked over and hugged the alien tightly.

“That won’t happen,” Cooky promised. TATA hugged back gently and sniffled.

“My emotions are a wreck...” TATA mumbled softly.

“It’s a side effect of... all of this.”

“Ahhhh what is going on!” TATA whispered yelled. “I wish Koya wasn’t so vague with their explanations!”

“We can’t ask. Koya’s still sleeping.”

“Koya is always sleeping.”

True.

Cooky and TATA asked Koya some questions about what was exactly going on. However, the daemon kept

nodding off in the middle of their group meeting.

(Yes, the daemons all gather to have a group meeting. What else are they going to do when their owners are in their own group meeting talking boring band stuff? In all honesty though, they all goofed around and gossiped)

TATA and Cooky sighed in defeat together. They had only bits and pieces of the whole picture at the moment.

Taehyung was important to them.

They had a bond with Taehyung

Taehyung was really connected to TATA

But don’t they both belong to Jungkook? Why is Taehyung so special?

The two daemons pondered when they both realized that they haven’t heard any bickering.

Has the awkwardness reign supreme then?

Cooky and TATA exchanged looks. TATA extrended their arms to open the door and push it open.

They peeked out of the bedroom to see the living room

more decorated than it previously was.

Taehyung and Jungkook was entangled on the couch. The two were even cuddling.

It gave Cooky an idea.

“TATA?”

“Yeah?”

“Let’s make Jungkook realize how important Tae is.”

“Ooh. How!?” TATA exclaimed excitedly.

“Let’s matchmake them!”

TATA tilted their head thoughtfully, before nodding eagerly. This sounds like a lot of fun!

The two daemons leaned together to conspire for their future plans...

~

Bogum turned on the lights and sagged in his coach. The last few days has felt like a whirlwind. Taehyung’s

whole impromptu concert appearance, his sudden fame, and even his illness. Not to mention the BTS members showing up in his apartment. Not only that, they also terrible disguises and theorized about the reason for Taehyung’s and Jungkook’s strange attitude.

Bogum grimaced

In all honesty, Bogum was counting his lucky stars that the fact that Taehyung didn’t have a daemon wasn’t leaked out somehow. On top of... everything, at least that was a saving grace

There was a crash and Bogum jumped up. He forgot about his... guest

Uh oh. This was bad.

“Mrs. Kim?” Bogum called out worriedly. As he had expected, there was no reply.

Bogum walked over to Taehyung’s empty bedroom and pushed open the door.

There was a lady standing there, staring at a shattered statue with a blank stare.

Bogum hissed at the sight and ran over

His heart weighed heavily when he gave a closer inspection

It was the little brown bear statue that Taehyung from his grandparents as a birthday present. However, it was shattered into pieces and beyond salvaging

Bogum gritted his teeth and glared at Mrs. Kim

“Do you know-

Wait, never mind. Of course you wouldn’t know what this is,” Bogum muttered under his breathe. “You simply don’t care about anything anymore.”

Mrs. Kim, if she heard him, was completely silent. She just stared at him with cold, empty eyes. They held no kindness or warmth

Bogum never saw those eyes have any light before. He has seen dusty old pictures in Taehyung’s old house before he moved out. However, after the car accident from Taehyung’s childhood, Mrs. Kim was never the same

Taehyung used to tell Bogum with a kind, hopeful smile about how

wonderful his mother was and how she would get better and everything would go back to normal

However, that smile consistently dimmed away when Taehyung realized that his mother would never actually get better

What was Mrs. Kim’s problem?

Her daemon was killed in that accident

Perhaps that’s part of the reason why humans regard a lack of daemon as so strange. They are so essential to one’s life that they literally lose their soul when their daemon dies

Mrs. Kim is a clear example of that.

She lacks any emotion and love.

Bogum was frustrated with her

He wanted the grab the woman and shake her.

He wanted to beg and plead to ask if even realizes what she has done to her own son. He wanted to ask if she even realized that she tore her own family apart with her own hands.

Bogum had to swallow the bitter bile in his throat.

In the end, it wouldn’t do anything to help the situation.

He simply ended up silently picking up the pieces while her empty eyes drilled a hole on his back

He sweeped the shards away into a bag, before picking it up.

“Just wait here. Don’t touch anything,” Bogum called before

vanishing.

[POSSIBLE TW/Neglect]

“Why isn’t it here yet?” Mrs. Kim said in an empty voice

Bogum gritted his teeth and took a deep breathe. Breathe in, then out

It wouldn’t be good to lose his cool right now. Screaming at her would be like yelling at a rock

She was unmoving.

“Taehyung is a he. Not an it,” Bogum calmly answered. He didn’t turn around to face her.

“Oh. I forgot,” Mrs. Kim replied in such a monotone voice that it took everything in him to not storm out

Mrs. Kim “forgot” a lot of things. She just didn’t even bother to try anything, in

all honesty.

If Mrs. Kim lost her soul that day, she lost all way to feel. She began to view people as objects rather than living creatures. She lacked all sympathy and emotion

She couldn’t actually care for anything anymore

It was infuriating that she technically wasn’t

doing anything wrong either. She still carried out her duties as both a mother and an employee. But both jobs were only in name

She was like an actor speaking the lines perfectly, but she had no depth to her.

She treated her own son as a thing rather than a human. The reality

of that made Bogum’s blood BOIL.

Her own son didn’t have a daemon and was shunned by society. But she wasn’t there for him. Taehyung has to turn to him for help instead.

Mrs. Kim wasn’t a real mother anymore. She lost all opportunity of that years ago.

After all, this was

only a FRACTION of how much his best friend has suffered

After years of Taehyung BARELY getting out of that house, she shows only NOW and suddenly decides she actually CARES for son?

Yeah right!

But despite this entire turmoil in Bogum’s mind, he stayed quiet

After all, it wasn’t his business in the first place.

“I’ll tell Taehyung you’re here later,” Bogum mumbled, before slamming the door shut.

Bogum tightened his fists. Why was she here? What did she want from Taehyung?

Taehyung had enough on his plate without his mother.

But, that’s exactly the problem. Even with such a rocky relatjonship, Mrs. Kim was still Taehyung’s mother. There was no changing that

Bogum, after throwing away the trash, sagged in his seat

The same woman that treated Taehyung like an object was still family

The truth tasted very bitter

Bogum opened his phone and stared at the text from Mrs. Kim that announces her arrival

Her texts felt like a robot.

Bogum covered his eyes. He hoped that Taehyung was having a better time than him at least, before it really becomes a huge mess

~

“...”

“...”

“What’s wrong with them?” Yoongi asked as he stared at a silent Jungkook and Taehyung. The duo were facing away from each other and refusing to acknowledge the other

Taehyung has a frown on his face while Jungkook had an annoyed pout

“Hopefully the apartment

didn’t catch on fire,” Hoseok jokingly said while fiddling with a game on his phone

That snapped Jungkook out of his daze and, if was even possible, had a deeper pout

“Hey!” Jungkook loudly protested. “I can cook just fine!”

“He definitely isn’t as hopeless as Namjoon!”

Seokjin teased loudly, before snaking on some fruit.

The boy band were taking a break from practice. Even if Jungkook was on “temporary” hiatus, they should still prepare for their next come back

“Jungkook! You should take a photo for the ARMYs!” Jimin suggested happily.

“After all, they are all worried about you!”

Jungkook shook his head and waved towards Taehyung. He raised an eyebrow, as if asking, “how am I supposed to take a selfie without holding onto Taehyung?”

Jimin reluctantly agreed to the point.

There wasn’t quite a good way to be

discreet about this, especially with how some fans were basically private detectives

That’s when Chimmy bounded towards their owner and yanked on Jimin’s shoulder

The next words would make everyone freeze

“Where’s everyone else?” Chimmy simply said and tilted their head

Jimin frowned at his dog daemon.

“Everyone else? What do you mean?” Jimin asked in confusion.

Chimmy pointed around the room.

“I couldn’t find TATA, Koya, RJ, or anyone else when I woke up,” Chimmy said simply.

It was dead silent in the room.

It wasn’t abnormal for the

daemons to play together or such, but for them to all suddenly disappear without saying anything...?

“Don’t jump to conclusions, everyone!” Namjoon warned them when everyone had a look of panic on their faces.

“B-but what if they were hurt! Or kidnapped by saesangs!” Hoseok

stammered fearfully.

It was an understandable fear. There were fans who tried to touch daemons (without permission) to get closer to their favorite celebrities or such. Idols were no different.

“I can still feel Koya. They are fine right now. Take deep breathes and focus on

your connection,” Namjoon calmly commanded.

Everyone slowly began to breathe and meditate on their connections with their daemons. They could feel their connections with their daemons but...

“RJ’s very scared,” Seokjin murmured very quietly.

“Shooky’s more angry fearful,”

Yoongi said with a very worried tone. Even if Yoongi was trying to hide it, the rapper was also terrified about what was going on.

“This doesn’t make sense! We’re surrounded by bodyguards at all times! I can’t believe something happened all the daemons!” Jimin exclaimed loudly

His thoughts spoke for everyone else. They were one of the biggest boy bands and their security was tight, especially after some incidents in the past

What was going on-!?

Taehyung’s whole body was quivering. He hugged himself very tightly.

He was so so so scared at the moment

He felt like he was drowning in his own fear. Taehyung felt anxious about... something

Maybe it was a premonition of what was to come. But Taehyung felt it was something more than that

“There’s no point of sitting around. Alert all the staff about what’s going on. There may be

an intruder or a kidnapper. Everyone else - we’re going to look for our daemons. Follow where your instcits tell you and that’s where you will find them all. Split up into groups!” Namjoon took charge of the situation and ordered everyone to disperse.

Jimin picked Chimmy up.

“Chim, do you remember anything that happened? Did the gang decide they wanted to eat some ice cream or something? Or did anything strange happen?” Jimin asked the dog. Chimmy shrugged

“I was asleep.”

Jimin sighed in defeat.

“Cmon, Jimin, let’s go,” Yoongi called for the younger. Hoseok looked awfully pale, but gave a big smile towards Jimin.

“Thanks for trying at least!” Hoseok said encouragingly.

Jimin gave a weak smile at the trio also left the room.

With Seokjin and Namjoon gone to notify the

staff, Taehyung and Jungkook were the only ones left

“You know this place better than I do. Lead the way,” Taehying offered and gestured Jungkook to do exactly that

Jungkook had a particular look that showed how worried he was.

Taehyung nudged the other. “It’ll be fine.”

Jungkook gave a hesitant nod and the duo went off to search for the group of missing daemons.

“I think they’re this way!” Jungkook exclaimed and pointed towards a hallway. The idols bypassed workers running around and frantically talking to each other

Looks like news got around

Taehyung curiously peered into rooms as they passed by. He hasn’t been able to stray away from Jungkook’s side, much less explore or even go to school

Watching the boy band prepare for their next album was a really fun experience! Even if Bogum is externally dying of jealousy

that he gets to hang out with BTS all day (and maybe Taehyung sends some hints/teasers to drive his best friend a bit crazy. Just a tiny bit)

Taehyung lingered back to open and close doors. He eyed in curiosity at some of the outfits and make-up in some of the rooms

Jungkook eyed Taehyung’s awe and curiosity, before awkwardly coughing

“If we do find everyone first, maybe we can celebrate. We can even buy you some clothes if you want,” Jungkook offered hesitantly. His voice trembled a bit. Maybe it was from the nerves of everything, or maybe

it was something

But anyways, at Jungkook’s offer, Taehyung’s eyes lit up with delight.

“Are you sure?” Taehyung asked. In all honesty, he was in some shock from the offer. He didn’t expect such an offer from the idol

Jungkook simply nodded, before tugging Taehyung’s hand

“I think we’re almost there!” Jungkook proclaimed, but Taehyung could hear the unsureness and fear in the idol’s voice

These WERE Jungkook’s daemons. Jungkook also took boxing, right?

Taehyung has a very strong feeling that Jungkook was itching to fight when necessary

When they opened the door, Taehyung wasn’t sure what he was exactly expecting

But it was definitely not this

“B-Bogum? What are you doing here?” Taehyung yelped in surprise. His best friend was here. Sitting right there on the coach.

He was just on his phone. However, there

were no texts from Bogum to just let his best friend (aka Taehyung) know about the fact that he was HERE

Taehyung pouted at the betrayal. That wasn’t fair!

“Bogum, what are you doing here?” Jungkook asked, cutting off Taehyung’s thoughts.

Bogum removed his earphones and

looked up

“Taehyung? Jungkook? You both are already done?” Bogum asked, looking surprised.

“No, but something came up...” Jungkook vaguely explained. After all, kidnapped daemons definitely is not the way to start a conversation

Taehyung ignored the duo and crouched down

“Bomi! Come here!” Taehyung happily cried at Bogum’s daemon tackled him with kisses and tail wags

Taehyung giggled and felt really cheered up

“Oh! I was going to give you this later, but here,” Bogum suddenly said as he handed Taehyung an envelope. “It’s from your school.”

Taehyung picked it up and sighed. He already predicted that it was going to be about his art exhibition, which his entire scholarship was riding on

This wasn’t the time to focus on such a matter though

As Taehyung tucked the envelope away, he frowned

“Did you come all the way

just for that?” Taehyung asked in confusion. Bogum was a busy person, after all. It wasn’t like him to be a messenger or something

Bogum scratched his head nervously and smiled. “How could you tell?”

“We’ve know each other since forever,” Taehying snorted

“Well, this is something I’ve been meaning to tell you but-“ Bogum began to explain, before cutting himself off. He began to frantically look around

Taehyung was surprised. “Is everything alri-“

“Where did she go?” Bogum hissed loudly. He frantically looked around

“Who?” Taehyung asked. He eyed Bogum suspiciously. “Did you get a girlfriend?”

Bogum was choking on air from the sudden question. The actor frantically shut Taehyung down since he was too busy to look for love at the moment

That was disappointing

“I’m talking about your mom!”

Taehyung completely froze in disbelief, before laughing harshly. The laugh was empty and cold.

“S-Sorry. Can you repeat that?” Taehyung chuckled, but his face was completely blank.

Bogum sighed. These were memories he didn’t want to bring up anymore, but he had no choice

“I didn’t bring her here because I wanted to,” Bogum whispered softly.

Taehyung was trembling and his eyes were filled with so much fear. He shook his head as if he couldn’t believe what he was hearing

“I ran away so I would never see her again,” Taehyung hissed at his friend

“I know that! I was there!” Bogum snapped back. The actor was stressed out from this entire conversation, especially since they had some unwanted guests as well

Jungkook was frozen as he watched everything play out. The idol wasn’t sure exactly what he should be doing

Bomi whimpered loudly. The dog daemon nudged Taehyung comfortingly

That allowed Bogum to gather his nerves together and take deep breathes. “When you ran away to your grandparents, we both knew that your mother could easily drag you back if she wanted to. And she did. Remember

that?”

Taehyung nodded slowly as his eyes glossed over from thinking about those days. “I wanted nothing to do with her anymore,” Taehyung replied.

Bogum nodded. “I made a deal with her to allow you the freedom you craved. Do you remember that as well?”

Taehyung tilted his

head in thought. Yeah, that vaguely sounded familiar. However, Bogum brushed aside the details of the deal and told him not to worry about it. So Taehyung forgot about it

“Wait... does this mean...?” Taehyung muttered thoughtfully

“She agreed to allow you to pursue whatever

life choice you wanted, but she wasn’t going to provide you anything,” Bogum continued.

Taehyung scoffed. It wasn’t like he wanted anything from his mother anyways. She didn’t actually care about him

“That’s why I am going to school with scholarships,” Taehying agreed

Bogum paused and looked unsure. He didn’t exactly know how to proceed with this

“Let’s just say that if she wants to you see though, she will. She hasn’t wanted to till now, but by the deal, I have to help her out. Taehyung, I know you hate this as much as myself, but

she still is your mother and your guardian. The sooner we both cooperate with whatever she wants, the sooner she leaves us alone,” Bogum explained. He was watering down the situation a bit, but that wa the gist of it

Taehyung had a torn look on his face. He was debating

whether to tear one into Bogum or cooperate with reality

Taehyung sighed.

“We need to have a long talk when this is over,” Taehyung wearily said. Bogum grimaced, but agreed

Jungkook coughed loudly and the two childhood friend turned to stare at him

Well, this wasn’t awkward

The blank looks told Jungkook that both forgot he was here

He sighed

“Sorry for interrupting, but I would like to remind you that we will have a missing... mother (?) and daemons right now. Shouldn’t we handle that first before all of this?” Jungkook waved and gestures toward

the duo’s communication/emotional mess

Bogum and Taehyung stared at each other, before leaping to their feets in realization

“Wait... If my mom is missing... and daemons are missing as well...” Taehyung muttered as the pieces fell together. “Oh crap. This is bad. This is bad.”

[TRIGGER WARNINGS]

-parental abuse
-crazy person and their actions
-manipulation
-dark thoughts

“Huh? Wait... do you mean that someone possibly kidnapped them all!? But why!?” Jungkook’s helped in surprise and his eyes bulged out.

However, his shock and worry went unnoticed by Taehyung. The other kept muttering to himself and was nervously tapping his feet. All words fell

on deaf ears

Bogum, however, slowly caught on. The actor nervously laughed. “Tae, you can’t possibly mean-?” Bogum questioned before shaking his head in disbelief. “No, she is too clever to do such things.”

Taehyung scoffed at the words. He laughed, but his laughter was hollow

and empty

“Yes, she is quite clever,” Taehyung spat out. “But no matter how brilliant she is, there‘s no denying that SHE has plenty of screws loose.”

Bogum kept shaking his head in disbelief. Taehyung has a point, but still.

“We both know that your mother is clever. There is

no dying that. She is also ruthless when she sets her eyes on something. But other than that, when it doesn’t concern her, she would not care. In this case, what would your mother gain from kidnapping some daemons?” Bogum questioned. “Not to mention, from our nation’s PRIDE.

There is no logical explanation for that. No matter how crazy she is at times, we both know she kept her logic. It wouldn’t make sense for her to do something so... extreme.”

“Wait. ARE YOU GUYS IMPLYING THAT TAEHYUNG’S MOTHER KIDNAPPED OUR DAEMONS!? BUT WHY!?” Jungkook shouted

at the realization of what the two were arguing about. But sadly, he was a third wheel in this situation. This world celebrity was shelved inside Taehyung’s and Bogum’s little world.

“But you don’t know her like I do,” Taehyung insisted. “She has no love for daemons. None!”

“But in that case, why go this far...?” Bogum murmured under his breathe. He couldn’t quite believe this.

However, waiting here won’t change anything, not allow them to be any closer to the truth

He met Taehyung’s gaze and his friend nodded in agreement

They both knew what they had to do

Just before they left, however, the door slammed open. There was clicking of heels as a woman walked into the room.

The lady was quite short, but she held a certain presence that screamed authority. She had short black hair and wore sunglasses

No one could see her eyes, but Taehyung knew what type of gaze they were

Taehyung thought he was stronger than this, but memories he thought were gone were dug up.

Taehyung trembled slightly as he stared at the floor. He didn’t want to meet her gaze.

Jungkook was worried.

Even with their strange... condition, Taehyung was always upset or sad. But Jungkook has never seen the expression of fear and pain in his eyes before

Something clenched around his heart and Jungkook gritted his teeth. Instead of holding hands, Jungkook tugged Taehyung closer

and put his arm around the other’s waist

Taehyung blinked in a daze from the sudden action. He looked at Jungkook and stared into the other’s eyes

“Don’t worry. I’m here.”

Taehyung could see that message in his eyes. Which was quite ridiculous. Here Taehyung was, getting

rattled by person he hasn’t seen in years and had no power over him. If anything, Taehyung should be comforting Jungkook. After all, the idol literally lost part of his SOUL. Two of his daemons are running around with the possibility of being kidnapped or worse

Taehyung gathered his nerves together. He looked at the woman he never wanted to see ever again

Taehyung took deep breathes in, then out.

This woman had no power over him anymore.

He couldn’t let these fears shake him. He could do this. He was different from that scared boy

“Why are you here?” Taehyung asked as he stared at his mother.

Gone was the lady who raised him and kissed him when he fell down and cooked him meals when he was sick

No longer wearing casual clothing, but instead expensive suits and make-up.

The lady from Taehyung’s

memories was long gone, after the accident

The warm heart turned ice cold, Taehyung thought bitterly

Taehyung couldn’t see her eyes, but he could feel then piercing into his entire being

Oh dear. This was something too similar for his taste

“Kim Taehyung, why are you slouching? Stand straight! Why Rd you trembling like that? Don’t you know better!” Mrs. Kim tsked loudly, before taking out her phone. “I need to call some your old tutors. It seems you are still lacking in many areas. It seems you are only useful

for the USELESS things, I’m afraid.” She began to quickly type up messages at lightening speed

Jungkook’s jaw dropped.

He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. And this was from Taehyung’s own MOTHER!

He was shaking. He was acting shaking from anger. Jungkook was seeing red

Taehyung flinched at the words and seemed to retreat into himself.

Mrs. Kim saw the action, despite being on her phone, and shook her head. “Still cowering like a child still? Some things never change. How about you learn to take that useless thing called emotions and crush it

to pieces. It’s simple enough. It would finally make you decently useful, at least.”

Decently useful? Useless thing called emotions?

WHAT WAS WRONG WITH HER!?

“Emotions? Useless?” Jungkook repeated. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Surely she would deny it... right?

“All emotions are pointless. They are pathetic. Happiness, greed, hatred, joy, love... they only hinder you in life. When you no longer have emotions, you would finally understand what is logical in this world and efficient. This is a truth that many are simply ignorant about.”

She was ridiculous. She was crazy. This woman talked more like a robot than an actual person

Jungkook was finally starting to understand something. He wasn’t feeling with a person

He was dealing with what was left of a person

After a daemon dies... a part of someone’s soul

also dies. They become empty and soulless.

They lose all emotions and a part of their being. Only at this moment did Jungkook finally realize what was going on

The lack of daemon was proof enough

Taehyung couldn’t take this anymore. He was so caught up in his own emotions that

he forgot about the reality of the situation

“Did you take the daemons from BTS? Tae asked, cutting his mother’s rambling off

Taehyung’s mother raised an eyebrow. “That’s quite the remark.”

“What do you have again daemons?” Jungkook asked

Taehyung raised an eyebrow and noded

Mrs. Kim raised an eyebrow and quirked a smile. However, her eyes were dark and cold.

“What do I have against daemons, you ask? That’s incorrect. I don’t have anything “against them,” but it is you guys who remain ignorant to reality. I said it earlier when I talked to my

pathetic son. He is useless because he continues to use his emotions. That does for the rest of the world as well. Without emotions, everything in life becomes so much more easier and logical. It is the rest of you who does not realize their flaws, unlike me,” Mrs. Kim casually

stated and her speechless audience

Everything finally snapped into place for Jungkook. He counte quite believed it either

“You think daemons are a weakness,” Jungkook murmured in surprise and bewilderment. Daemons are something to revere and loves. To see Taehyung’s mom do the

exact opposite as the rest of the world was mindboggling.

Mrs. Kim briskly nodded and peered sharply at Jungkook

“Nice to see at least there are some people who use their brains,” Mrs. Kim said, but Jungkook knew it was an insult towards Taehyung

Taehyung shrieked away from

the woman from fear.

“What do you have against Taehyung? Isn’t he your son?” Jungkook demanded loudly. He was fed up with this woman treating Taehyung like trash

Mrs. Kim simply tsked loudly, as if Jungkook was a child yet to understand anything about the world

“He doesn’t have a daemon,” she said simply.

This riled up Jungkook. It shouldn’t MATTER if Taehyung had a daemon or not

Sure, it was not common, but it wasn’t a good reason to put your own son down

And that was exactly what Jungkook said to Mrs. Kim

That’s when she started

laugh. But the laughter was creepy in itself since it was robotic and empty

It was a reminder that, despite appearances, Mrs. Kim truly lost a piece of her soul

“Oh, how silly of you. You think I am ashamed that he doesn’t have a daemon? Maybe even view him as weird? Oh, that

couldn’t be farther from the truth,” Mrs. Kim clipped at Jungkook

“That... isn’t the case?” Bogum questioned, looking confused. The actor always assumed that’s why since the rest of society had the same way of thinking. This lady had a few screws loose. Bogum was starting to

realize that she had more than just a “few”

“Of course not! This world needs to function on efficiency and logic. Emotions complicate that. Look at me and what solved my problem,” Mrs. Kim explained and gestured towards herself. Her smile was twisted, as if he lips were about to

drip poison itself

Then, Mrs. Kim grabber Jungkook’s shoulder and whispered in his ear:

“It is such a disappointment that my son doesn’t have a daemon, or else I would’ve killed it a long time ago. That would fix his useless self with all his emotions.”

Jungkook was shaking. He was actually trembling and was terrified.

He couldn’t believe his ears. Mrs. Kim was messed up on so many different levels

She walked away and didn’t turn back.

“Now, don’t go being an idiot and prattling, or else you might not live to regret it. Oh,

and I have nothing to do with your daemons and all. Whatever happened wasn’t my fault, but if something did, you might end up thanking me.”

With a few steps, the business woman was gone leaving a bewildered trio.

Jungkook shook his head. He should focus on the missing daemons

That woman... her words were messing with his head. And, sadly, it was working.

These negative thoughts weren’t going to make the situation better.

Jungkook took a deep breathe in, and then out. It’ll be fine. It will work out.

TATA and Cooky were going to be fine...

“I don’t believe her. She had to have a hand in this,” Taehyung spat out angrily. The other was shaking from frustration.

Bogum stared at Taehyung with both worry and guilt. Likely, the actor was feeling torn since he didn’t mean for any of this to happen

However, Jungkook

couldn’t help but feel bitter. It was Bogum’s fault for brining Taehyung’s mom here and starting this mess.

But there wasn’t any point of lingering on these thoughts.

“Let’s go find the others,” Jungkook stated, gently guiding a shaken up Taehyung away from the room.

Bogum watched the duo leave, before flopping onto a chair.

This was a total mess

~

“...I don’t think they’re going to be in a box,” Yoongi deadpanned as he watched Jimin peer into shoeboxes.

“You never know!” Jimin insisted. “Chimmy’s favorite place is in a box!”

“Chimmy is right next to you,” Hoseok said and pointed at the yellow dog. Chimmy blinked their eyes innocently

Jimin paused, before laughing nervously. The dancer slowly set the box down

Yoongi shook his head. The only Daemon that could fit into that thing would probably be

TATA or Shooky. Shooky wouldn’t dare, but Yoongi wouldn’t be surprised if TATA’s curiosity got the better of them...

Yoongi eyed some strange corners of the room, as if expected the daemon to pop out of nowhere.

“We should be focusing more on our connection,” Hoseok insisted.

Yoongi raised an eyebrow.

“Well, can you tell us where our daemons are then?” Yoongi countered. The dancer paused, before also laughing nervously

“I thought you might have an answer for that instead,” he sheepishly admitted. Yoongi sighed.

In all honesty, Yoongi was feeling

very unnerved. He could feel Shooky feeling on edge right now, but the connection was feeling more and more blurry.

That was scarier than anything else. Yoongi didn’t know why, where, or how Shooky was.

That’s why he felt particularly a bit more impatient to move more quickly

Yoongi clenched his hands in frustration when... BANG!

There was a loud crash and the sound of things shattering

The members didn’t even hesitate to run towards the noise.

They found themselves in another waiting room, but the entire place was a mess. There were balloons

scattered around and streamers all over the floor. There was even a glitter explosion covering the leather furniture in gold

The most concerning part was the scene of daemons crowding around something...

Or more exactly, another daemon

Koya was lying on the floor underneath

a heavy case.

The koala was silent and quiet as the three members gasped at the scene.

“C’mon and help me!” Hoseok yelled to remove Koya from the vase. “Call a doctor and Namjoon, you two! Koya’s bleeding pretty badly. It doesn’t look very good.”

Yoongi hissed at the sight as he and Jimin removed the vase.

Yoongi moves the vase away while Hoseok immediately started to examine the daemon.

“Looks like they passed out from the pain. The legs don’t look too good either,” Hoseok noted as he gently cleaned the koala up

Jimin frowned with a grim look on his face. “Do you think any shards got stuck?”

Hoseok frowned worriedly. He didn’t think about that.

“I only know basic first aid,” the dancer muttered. “This is way beyond that. I am going to clean up the blood and watch over Koya. Jimin,

get some help. Yoongi, watch over the other daemons and make sure they don’t get into anymore trouble.”

Jimin nodded, before immediately running out to get some help.

Yoongi sighed. He felt a headache coming.

Yoongi turned to give pointed looks at the guilty group of daemons

“Should I even ask what you guys are all doing here?” Yoongi questioned more to himself, before giving a harsh glare. “Do you guys KNOW how worried we were? Oh wait, you can feel our emotions. Of course you should! Would you mind all explaining yourselves and your

whole vanishing act?” Yoongi loudly demanded. However, the daemons simply avoided eye contact. TATA and RJ found looking at themselves very interesting indeed. On the other hand, Mang drooped their head with the tail sadly trailed behind them. Cooky guiltily looked at the floor

However, the real cherry on top was that Yoongi’s OWN daemon simply crossed their arms and stared Yoongi down. Shooky, shouldn’t you know better? Why are you betraying your father like this?

Yoongi took a deep breathe and simply waited for an answer. And he waited, and waited,

and he waited even more.

The daemons never gave a clear answer.

Yoongi frowned, before looking around the room. It was hard to tell what exactly they were all planning

Something was tugging on Yoongi’s pants and he looked down to see the innocent eyes of Chimmy

“Is Koya going to be alright?” Chimmy asked worriedly. The dog looked so sad and pathetic. It was so out of character to see that it stabbed a knife where Yoongi’s heart was at

However, Yoongi honestly didn’t know if Koya was going to be alright. It looks pretty nasty

“I don’t know,” Yoongi sighed and Chimmy simply nodded.

It might’ve been a minute. It might’ve even been an hour.

Yoongi simply stared down the group of guilty looking Daemons while stomping and yelling came their way. In the distance, Yoongi could heat an ambulance.

Help came

Seokjin threw the door open. His usually put-together appearance was a mess. Seokjin’s hair was messed up and the oldest was trembling.

There was a serious look in his eyes that made Yoongi want to gulp. And he wasn’t even the one in trouble

“How is Koya?” Seokjin demanded

loudly as the more people started to trickle into the room.

Medical staff and employees were cleaning up the room or helping Koya. They started to question Jimin, who brought everyone here

“We came into the room and found Koya under a vase. It cracked on impact. They have

a huge gash on their entire back. The legs might be broken too,” Yoongi replies with a grimace.

At those words, Seokjin collapsed onto the chair nearby.

“No wonder Namjoon reacted the way he did,” Seokjin whispered with a blank look in his eyes

Yoongi paused.

“What do you mean?” He asked feeling puzzled. Did Namjoon react in a strange way? Shouldn’t he simply be in a lot of pain?

“Namjoon probably experiences DEDS, or Daemon Emotion Defect Syndrome. Daemons have both an emotional connection to their owner’s very own soul. Usually,

their emotions are shared together. However, there are occasions when the Daemon gets so hurt to the extent that their owner’s soul breaks. Sometimes cracks are left behind, which is why sometimes the owner’s personality or mood changes. But if a Daemon dies, the owner’s soul

dies with them. Namjoon’s Daemon probably got hurt to extent that Namjoon himself probably shut down, correct?” a deep voice suddenly said. Yoongi turned to see a blank faced Taehyung and an angry Jungkook.

Yoongi was surprised about the extensive knowledge Taehyung knew about

this.

Taehyung, probably predicting Yoongi’s question, simply smiled.

“It’s a taboo subject in Korea, but my family is personally familiar with it.”

The dark look on Jungkook’s face deepened. Yoongi was curious, but he also knew it wasn’t his business. He didn’t want to get

into an argument with their youngest either

He turned to Seokjin and asked, “So what happened to Namjoon?”

Seokjin took a shaky breathe. Feeling the same anxiety and fear, RJ cuddled with their owner. Yoongi notes that the alpaca was trembling as well, but it was barely

noticeable

(It was easy to forget that Seokjin used to study acting. RJ inherited those traits as well. It also explained how they were both such a foundation for the entire group when the rest were shaken up. It was strange to see both of them shaken up instead)

“We were both looking for the Daemons, obviously. Suddenly, Namjoon was screaming hysterically. He-he looked like he was in so such pain and was actually crying. And then... nothing. He suddenly froze and all the life in his eyes disappeared. And then he passed out...” Seokjin

whispered quietly and his voice was shaking so much...

Yoongi walked over and gave Seokjin a silent hug for support. The eldest gave a grateful smile.

Suddenly, the two of them were being tightly squeezed.

“Namjoon wouldn’t want us to all mope,” Jungkook mumbled softly.

Yoongi gave a soft smile when he felt some wetness on his sleeves

The little kid that came into the dorms did grow up, but at those moments, Yoongi recalls those old moments. He could recall the starry eyed looks Jungkook would have while trailing after Namjoon or the others

“Yeah, you’re right, kiddo,” Yoongi mumbled softly. Jungkook snorted at the teasing.

“Don’t get snot on me!” Seokjin complained loudly, which caused the group to break into some giggles. There were some padding of footsteps

“Do I even want to know?” Hoseok asked with a raised

eyebrow. The dancer looked really tired, while covered in some blood. Seeing where the trio was staring at, Hoseok grimaced.

“Yeah, I need to go wash up... immediately,” Hoseok muttered and shuddered. The blood make him a bit squimish.

“How’s Koya?” Seokjin asked worriedly.

Hoseok gave Seokjin a reassuring look. “Koya’s in good hands. They are expected to make a full recovery in a week. However, expect Namjoon to be in a bit of pain till then.”

Everyone sagged in relief.

“Let’s go home, guys. We’ve had a

long day,” Jimin joined the conversation after wrapping everything up with the staff. “We found the Daemons. Namjoon and Koya both need to be fixed up by professionals. There isn’t anything we can do here anyways. You all look dead in your feet as well.”

There was a chorus of agreements as everyone wrapped up the conversation as the group dragged themselves out of the room. They all looked like zombies as they were dead both inside and on their feet

After all the shenanigans, the group never got an exact answer about the

daemons’ mysterious disappearing act. They never went over the conversation with Mrs. Kim.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t the end of the group either

~

“Stop mothering him, Seokjin!” Hoseok yelled from the dining room. “Namjoon can feed himself!”

“Considering he just stabbed

himself with CHOPSTICKS, I don’t trust him with a fork!” Seokjin yelled back.

Taehyung watched the scene eitj interest. Seokjin was, indeed, hand feeding Namjoon. Namjoon, instead of being annoyed, was simply amused

(The leader probably heard about Seokjin waiting for nights by his bedside and losing sleep over worry, Taehyung knew. After all, Jimin said that fact rather loudly while Namjoon was in the next room over. It was sweet that they were all trying to give peace of mind to Jin too)

There was some rustling in the kitchen, before Jungkook popping oht with a frown.

“There isn’t any food?” Jungkook said in a puzzled voice.

Seokjin frowned as he fed Namjoon another piece of chicken.

“I just cooked though. That’s impossible!”

Jungkook simply shrugged. “There really isn’t any food for dinner though, besides some tomato sauce.”

Seokjin sighed and stood up. He gave Namjoon a pointed look. “Please don’t stab yourself,” he said.

Namjoon reassuringly smiled and nodded, while Taehying hid his laughter

The moment Seokjin walked away, Namjoon did actually stab himself. The leader winced, before giving Taehyung a look to not say anything.

Taehyung smothered his chuckles, but nodded.

“I can’t believe you were actually serious,” Seokjin said in disbelief. “WHERE DID ALL THE FOOD GO!?”

They all winced at the loud yelling, but no one had any answers. Seokjin sighed tiredly.

He didn’t want to deal with this headache. He was already exhausted

“Let’s see... hm. There’s a giant plate of spaghetti noodles right here. Put some tomato sauce with garlic and we have some food on the table at least.”

Taehyung felt bad for Seokjin. He sounded so... tired. He wished that Seokjin would just r e s t already.

There was some clinking around, before the aroma filled the air and there was growling stomachs. In a few moments, there was a giant plate of spaghetti in the table with a few meatballs as well!

At the smell of food, others began to trickle in. Hoseok, who was waiting patiently,

dived right in. Jimin popped next to Hoseok and eyed the food curiously.

“Food!” he cheered loudly, before also sneakily taking a bite.

“At least get a plate if you want some,” Jungkook joked with a smile. “Weren’t you the one who said they were going to eat later?”

Jimin stuck a tongue at the youngest, before slurping some noodles.

There wasn’t even a moment to pause before lips landed on lips.

A shocked Jimin stared at a frozen Hoseok.

They stayed in that position - just staring at each other.

Taehyung coughed loudly

The two sprung apart, awkwardly laughing and talking. The duo avoided looking at each other

Yoongi walked into the room next, which somehow made both of them REDDER.

Something quite interesting was going on, hm?

Taehyung gave Jungkook a puzzled look, but Jungkook simply shrugged.

Taehyung hummed. Maybe he can talk to Jimin about this later... how can he do that without Jimin around? Himself and Jungkook can’t be too far apart for too long...

Maybe he should ask for Jimin’s number? Would it be weird to ask for his number? Would Jimin even give it to him?

They were questions Taehying needed to ponder more later... but at the moment, Taehyung really wished he snapped a picture of the duo’s blushing faces

While the humans were all milling about, the Daemons hiding away sighed in defeat

“I told you that Disney movies aren’t a good guideline for matchmaking plans,” the cookie deadpanned.

“Dance parties are still the best option!” Mang cheered, but the others winced. They

already tried doing a party and THAT ended in a disaster...

Cooky and TATA looked guiltily at a sleeping Koya. The koala said they weren’t upset, it was an accident, they wanted to participate in this, and etc. But it didn’t change the fact that Koya was still hurt

TATA pushed the thought to the back of their mind and sighed. “I really thought the Disney movies were perfect...”

“It’s okay, TATA! We’ll try next time!” Chimmy reassured the sad alien.

What started as a small conversation in Taehyung’s and Jungkook’s apartment was now a conspiracy amongst all the daemons. It was also turned into a competition for the best scheme, but well, things happen...?

One thing was sure: Nothing was going to plan so far

Little did anyone know, this was only scratching the surface...

Incident #3:

“Someone GET ME OUT OF THESE HANDCUFFS!” an annoyed Jimin huffed really loudly. He had a deep scowl on his face.

“For someone so small, Jimin certainly has a lot of anger inside him,” Jungkook

teased with a smug smile.

Jimin sent the youngest a death glare.

“Don’t think I won’t kick you!” Jimin shot back.

Jungkook raised an eyebrow with a mischievous look in his eye. He then smirked and turned to the one attached to Jimin.

“Please don’t let Jimin kick me. It really can hurt,” Jungkook whined with a small pout.

Taehyung completely froze.

“Jimin, how about we drop this...” Taehyung mumbled, feeling a bit unsure what to do.

“After all, who knows if your short legs can reach me!” Jungkook exclaimed

cheerfully.

Namjoon sighed in exasperation when Jimin r o a r e d with rage.

“Taehyung, don’t fall Jungkook’s tricks,” Seokjin warned Taehyung. “You may be our guest of sorts, but don’t let it stop you from allowing Jungkook to be knocked down a few pegs.”

Taehyung looked really unsure and confused. In all honesty, he wasn’t quite sure how he got stuck in this situation

One day, he is cooking in the kitchen. However, Jungkook was quick to learn about Taehyung’s lack of skills in the kitchen when he managed to burn soup of all

things

(He really thought he could do it this time!!!)

Jungkook was sweet enough to clean up the mess, but that’s when the phone rang. Taehyung picked it up and told Seokjin what happened.

After that, the eldest immediately hung up and then barged into the apartment like he

owned the place.

Soon after, the others showed up with ingredients in hand

Seokjin calmly stated that Jungkook had no idea what proper nutrition was, before taking over the kitchen and kicking everyone else out.

The next thing you know, the entire group is having dinner

together.

Several times, you could hear yelling and crashing in the kitchen. Seeing Taehyung’s confused look, Hoseok clarified that Shooky was just having some fun (?)

Everyday, Taehyung was learning more and more about the idol group.

Taehyung felt bad and wanted to help

Seokjin out with the dishes at least or set up the table.

Jungkook and Jimin both wanted to help out as well

The next thing Taehyung knew, he tripped over something, crashing into Jimin and Jungkook. The three of them tumbled around for a while.

However, that’s when TATA jumped in the dogpile and things got a bit chaotic.

TATA handcuffed Jimin and Taehyung together by “accident.”

Taehyung and Jimin were upset at the alien, especially when they learned it was a special TATA-exclusive item.

AKA they were stuck together for a day.

Soooooo

Not only was Taehyung stuck with Jungkook WITHOUT having some kind of emotional breakdown, but he was also handcuffed to Jimin for a day

Things just kept getting better and better in Taehyung’s life

This is what caused Jimin to be snappy and grumpy about the situation. Jungkook tried to lighten the mood with some teasing, but it only ended up adding fuel to the fire

They later learned they tripped over Koya’s pillow, which they apologizing to the more-tired-than-usual

Daemon. They offered to buy a new pillow since the pillow got a bit torn up in the chaos. Koya thanked them, before falling asleep

Namjoon also thanked them from his place in the coach. The leader looked dead on his feet and needed to lean on Seokjin for help

In the end, the dinner went a bit awkward with Jimin and Taehyung trying to coordinate how to eat without yanking on the handcuffs each time. This dissolved into a lot of bickering between Taehyung and Jimin

Hoseok and Jungkook had to pull the two apart before anything could

happen

This led to one of the most awkward nights of Taehyung’s life. In a series of events, Taehyung ended up sleeping in the same bed as Jimin AND Jungkook.

Going to the bathroom was in another realm of itself.

The next day, Jimin insisted he needed to practice his dances

If not that (since 1. Taehyung was not a dancer and did not have the stamina of an idol 2. Dancing handcuffed was a recipe for disaster), at least warm-up to get his body moving.

However, Taehyung was feeling a bit hungry a while into the session

“How about we eat some of the dumplings Seokjin packed for us right now?” Taehyung suggested

Jimin frowned at the idea

“No, let’s warm up. If possible, I want to run some parts of the songs. Let’s eat them later,” Jimin shot down.

Taehyung crossed his arms.

“We haven’t had a single break and it’s been an hour. Let’s just eat now, before we forget or it gets too late.”

“No, afterwards.”

“No, now.”

“Afterwards.”

“Now.”

“Does this seriously matter?!” Jungkook exclaimed loudly since the duo seemed to forget about his existence

altogether

Chimmy nodded very seriously at Jungkook as if answering, while TATA playfully mimicked Taehyung crossing his arms. This caused Cooky to giggle at the alien

“Stay out of this!” Jimin and Taehyung both shouted at the maknae. The arguing made them very heated and angry

Jungkook knew when he was unwanted and slowly began to back away and give the duo some space.

Jungkook would swear up and down that Taehyung and Jimin were arguing for what felt like forever. That’s why he was so surprised to hear laughed and giggling. When Jungkook turned

around, Jimin and Taehyung were nudging each other and playfully ruffling the other’s hair.

To say Jungkook was shell shocked was an understatement.

“Wh-what...?” Jungkook managed to finally stammer while the duo were engrossed inside a conversation

That’s when Jimin gave Jungkook a dead serious look.

“Taehyung is now mine,” Jimin proclaimed

For some reason, those words made Jungkook’s blood boil and he gritted his teeth. However, Jungkook managed to collect himself since he was acting unreasonable. He didn’t need to be

upset. He had no reason... right?

However, despite telling himself that, Jungkook still snapped at Jimin.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” he said a bit too harshly.

Jimin rolled his eyes and replied, “Don’t be a brat now. Taehyung is my soulmate. I can feel it in my soul!”

Taehyung giggled and smiled a boxy grin

The sight made Jungkook’s breath hitch

(He has been trying to forget how beautiful Taehyung was this whole time since it was so distracting)

“Sorry, Jungkook, but Jimin’s right!” Taehyung said so happily with so much life in his eyes

that Jungkook couldn’t bring himself to say anything else

They later dubbed the event the Dumpling Incident and BTS quickly adapted to Tae and Jimin texting CONSTANTLY and being extra cuddly with each other

(Even if the Daemons technically failed, they still succeeded as well)

Well, if anyone noticed that TATA and Chimmy were also being ESPECIALLY clingy, well. No one said anything.

And so, it continued...

~

Attempt #7

“I can’t... move,” Namjoon muttered as he tried shifting to make room

“Namjoon, I don’t want your butt in my face!” Hoseok loudly

complained

Seokjin pouted. Hoseok was lucky and he didn’t even know it...

“This is impossible. Seokjin, your shoulders keep jabbing into mine,” Yoongi complained. Loudly.

“There is no space in here!” Jimin whines as he was squished between Jungkook and Taehyung

Jungkook snorted at those words. “What kind of closet is made to fit 7 people?” he retorted back at Jimin. Jimin wrinkled his nose in response

“This could be worse,” Taehyung suggested. “We could also have the Daemons all stuck in here.” Taehyung hoped perhaps that would bring

some peace. Sadly, no.

“We wouldn’t even have still BE IN HERE if somone didn’t break the doorknob,” Yoongi grumbled with a frown on his face.

Namjoon froze and winced. Yeah, that was his bad

Seokjin sighed. “There’s no point of doing what-ifs or the blame game right now.

The staff will eventually find us after their lunch break when they find out we aren’t in the practice rooms.”

There was a pause of silence, as if waiting for someone to ask the inevitable question.

It was Jungkook who bite the bullet.

“How long is that going to be?”

Namjoon looked at his watch and answered in a tried voice, “Not for another half hour. Even if we tried yelling as well, they won’t hear us. So we are stuck here till then.”

Everyone groaned and burst into complaining

“How did this even happen?”

“It’s because the mirrors

were all dirty and we needed to clean it up.”

“We should’ve asked someone else to, instead of listening to your suggestion to do it ourselves.”

“How is that my fault?”

“It is so cramped in here, I can’t feel anything!”

“I am getting SMUSHED here!”

“...Please stop arguing.”

“EVERYONE, QUIET!” Namjoon snapped sternly and everyone immediately fell silent to listen to their leader. “There is no point of arguing or complaining. It happened already and we can’t change it. What we CAN change is perhaps making some room for everyone so we are all less

squished together.”

Jimin sighed in relief and nodded eagerly. He felt like he was about to turn into a pancake already

“Perhaps have people sit in laps instead? To make more room?” Hoseok suggested and everyone nodded in agreement, though some a bit more reluctantly

And that’s how Jimin ended up in Yoongi’s lap, Hoseok in Jungkook’s, and Seokjin in Namjoon’s.

(No one was willing to tell Yoongi that he was small and needed to sit in someone’s lap. They also didn’t want to force Taehyung, who is a bit newer to their dynamic, in a strange(r)

situation)

When the staff finally found them, some of their faces were a bit more red than others as well.

(From that day forward, Koya and RJ always snuggled together, but that’s a story for another time)

Over many more attempts, the Daemons made Ferris wheel dates

(and also trapped their owners on said Ferris wheel by breaking it but shhh), created romantic picnics (which actually caught on fire), made bungee jumping activities (they didn’t know Taehyung was scared of heights), and more - but they each went horribly wrong in unexpected

ways

It was attempt #11 that really really went wrong. It was all over the news that an unknown person (Taehyung) almost drowned in the news, in which Jungkook dove to save him

The official statement was that a friend of the staff was tagging along on a fishing trip and fell in

However, besides the blurred out photos of Taehyung’s unconscious body, something else caught a certain someone’s eye.

A certain mother, actually.

Mrs. Kim could hardly believe her eyes when she saw on the news a heart-shaped Daemon with POLKADOTS covering themsleves.

She could recall distant memories of a young boy laughing and showing his mother a drawing he made.

The memory should’ve tugged at her heartstrings, but she only felt empty.

Yet, that drawing was right in her face. They were standing RIGHT there looking concerned at the duo

It didn’t make sense. But it had to make sense as well.

Mrs. Kim opened her phone and pulled up an old contact.

“Hello? This is Mrs. Kim. I wanted to hire you to investigate a man named Jeon Jungkook and his Daemons. Thank you very much. Good bye.”

Mrs. Kim smiled as she hung up on the voice. Straight. Concise.

She stretched her back and looked out her office’s window. The tall windows towered over other buildings.

Her heels clicked on the floor as she looked out to stare down at the city.

She curled her lips.

She stared at families walking together, with their own little creatures following their every step.

She stared at little children looking at their own little blobs and giggling with excitement for the future.

How pathetic. They had no idea of the shackles they had.

She, at least, knew better.

And, if her hunch was right, she could finally do something she wanted to do to her son all those years ago.

Her own son was already weighed down by his worthlessness for not having a Daemon. If her suspicions were right, she could finally free her

son from those shackles.

Maybe her son wasn’t so useless after all.

Mrs. Kim glared at the people below her. If she could, she would squash them all for being so... pathetic.

She turned around and walked away from the scene below her. Her heels clicking the entire time.

~

“I can’t believe this,” Kim Taehyung mumbled in complete disbelief. “Are you actually serious? You actually have a crush on-“

Jimin tackled Taehyung, causing him to tumble off the coach. Jimin quickly covered Taehyung’s mouth and was glaring death daggers at him

“Mmmmmm!!!” Taehyung muffled shouted and waved his hands around.

Jimin presser his hands down harder. “I told you that out of trust! Confidentiality! Don’t say it out loud for EVERYONE TO HEAR!” Jimin hissed loudly into Taehyung’s ears.

Taehyung rolled his eyes

Jimin scowled at that. Taehying pointed at Jimin’s hands covering his mouth, before deviously licking them

Jimin shrieked in shock and quickly wiped the spit.

“Tae! That’s not fair!” Jimin complained loudly. “And gross!”

“Well, I don’t like suffocating,” Taehyung snipped back

The other BTS members didn’t even bat an eye over the wrestling and muffled yelling in the living room. They learned not to question it. Less headaches that way.

Taehyung looked around, before motioning Jimin to follow

“If you want to talk about this, follow me to our bedroom.”

Jimin gasped excitedly with a glint in his eyes.

Taehyung had a bad feeling and quickly shoved Jimin into the bedroom. Taehyung could hear the shower running, which was where Jungkook was.

“Did I just hear you say “our”? Do you have something to say for yourself, Tae?”

Taehying‘s cheeks felt warm when he realized his slip up.

“Is this “our” apartment as well, for you and our maknae?” Jimin continued to mischievously tease.

Taehyung’s ears were now warm and Taehyung shoved Jimin onto the large bed.

“We literally are roommates!” Tae

hissed. “Also, keep good voice down! Jungkook is RIGHT! THERE!”

Jimin rolled his eyes when there was a soft THUMP right next to them.

Taehyung and Jimin exchanges worried glances, before rushing to the other side of the bed.

They blinked in surprise to see Chimmy and TATA

playing with a harmonica.

The two Daemons blinked innocently back at them. There was a moment of silent, before Chimmy ran and jumped onto the bed. TATA quickly stretched their arms and plopped themsleves onto the bed as well. The two began to cuddle while watching Tae and Jimin

O...kay?

Taehyung looked at Jimin, who simply shrugged.

Then Jimin gave Taehyung a very pointed look.

“Spill the beans! What is your relationship with Jungkook?” Jimin asked eagerly.

Taehyung nervously scratched his head and looked away.

“Fine.”

“Fine,” Jimin said flatly. “You need to give me more than that.”

“Well... I don’t know? Our relationship didn’t exactly start off normal, you know? One thing led to another after being literally plopped onto his lap, and then we were living together.

We argued a bit-“

“Ooh. So you guys had a lovers spat! That’s normal in marriages,” Jimin cheerfully reassured his best friend.

Taehyung respondes by throwing a pillow at Jimin’s face.

“I feel bad, okay? We argued over stupid things. I think I was scared from being in a new

environment. But that was only one or two arguments. The rest of the times... he’s just so sweet with me. But it’s also scary. When I can too far apart from him, my emotions get the best of me. We are getting better at being a bit farther apart slowly, but I can’t even

leave this apartment without breaking into tears. Much less leave Jungkook’s side for too long,” Taehyung explained and Jimin nodded sympathetically

“Soooo what’s I’m hearing is... you might be interested,” Jimin said

Taehyung decided to tackle the other in response and tickle.

That’s when the door opened and a very wet and shirtless Jungkook stepped out.

Jungkook blinked to see Taehyung and Jimin tangled on the bed. Or more accurately, Taehyung straddling Jimin.

Realizing his compromising position, Taehyung scrambled off Jimin and his entire face

felt hot.

That was so embarrassing!

It was even more mortifying to see Jimin barely muffling his giggles. What a traitor!

Taehyung kept staring down at his hands, but his gaze couldn’t help but drift towards Jungkook. Who happened to be shirtless. Whose nice abs were on

display and Taehyung was very much appreciative for those nice arms as well. And there were also droplets rolling down that body-

“Tae, you’re drooling,” Jimin giggled.

In a roar of anger, Taehyung resumed his attack on Jimin.

Jungkook kept digging through his closet.

Finally, Jungkook left to the bathroom to change

Jimin hunched over, completely cracking up.

“I think interested is an understatement,” Jimin chuckled. Taehyung rolled his eyes.

“Enough about my love life. You have a crush on BOTH Yoongi and Hobi! I can’t believe it!”

“Don’t say it so loudly!” Jimin hissed, but his cheeks pinked. How adorable!

“You should totally tell him,” Taehyung insisted. “In all honesty, I thought there was at least one pair dating between the three of you. You definitely all like each other. Go for it!”

Jimin still looked unsure and scared. Taehyung’s heart aches for his best friend.

“Maybe you will be lucky like Namjoon and Seokjin?” Taehyung suggested.

Jimin relaxed a bit. “Oh,” he said playfully. “You’re referring the pizza incident.”

There was a pizza delivery at Tae’s

apartment, but surprisingly, Seokjin ended up finding a ring in his pizza.

Namjoon, who brought the pizza, was absolutely flustered and confused. One part of many other similar strange incidents, it took quite a turn when everyone else started to joking congratulate the duo on

their “engagement.”

Namjoon was a nervous mess at the suggestion.

Seokjin took the chance to smile and “accept” the proposal. And now, they were dating

It was adorable, but a strange incident. Maybe that’s what Jimin needs

Jimin shoved Tae.

“Oh shush. No way I’ll happen!”

The duo ended up playfully laughing together as the teasing resulted in sharing funny stories of their past.

It felt like everything was going in the right direction.

Taehyung smiled. He felt like he found a home. People who didn’t just him for lacking a Daemon. They respected

his privacy and didn’t ask too many questions as well.

He felt like he found his first true friends since, well, Bogum.

It felt nice. Taehyung just wished he could take this moment and keep it forever, even when he knew that was impossible.

They were idols. He was just a student that was stuck with them due to a strange series of events.

And nothing good lasted forever. Taehyung learned that lesson too many times already.

But he decided to smile and treasure this laughter and warm feelings inside while he could...

~

TATA and Cooky both realized that nothing was going quite right. They tried so many plans to get Taehyung and Jungkook together. They KNEW in their very SOULS (which is ultra serious since they were soul manifestations) about how PERFECT the couple could be.

But somehow, none of their matchmaking worked... in the way they expected, at least.

How would they phrase it?

It worked but also didn’t work?

“RJ and Koya are always cuddling now,” Cooky mumbled in an upset tone. Most likely sad that they couldn’t have free snacks now that

RJ was preoccupied, just like their owner. “And it is all because we didn’t plan for who would pick up the pizza.”

TATA nodded very seriously in agreement.

Cooky continued, “You also used the wrong phone to send the texts.”

TATA pouted. Yeah, they messed that one up, but it

was an ACCIDENT. It wasn’t completely their fault!

There needs to be some clarification about what happened.

Due to RJ and Koya ditching them, TATA and Cooky conspired to go with the classic jealousy plot. Surely, spurred by jealously, SOMEONE would make a move.

It was sort of a success, but also not really.

TATA ended up being distracted by an adorable little puppy. It wasn’t EXACTLY their fault. The dog was fluffy and adorable. TATA ended up picking up the wrong phone and used the wrong password (it wasn’t their fault that they

knew Jimin’s password by heart. TATA just knew by simply sensing it!)

The text they sent out about also being in love with someone else... ended up being true.

How were they supposed to know that Jimin was in love... with two different people!?

When Jungkook (un-tactfully)

brought it up during dinner, it ended up being a really strange conversation with the entire band.

Love revelations were made. Kissing happened. Too much crying was also included.

In the end, now there was ANOTHER couple in the band.

Problem?

THEY STILL HAVEN’T GOTTEN THE MAIN COUPLE TOGETHER!!!

Cooky and TATA sagged in defeat.

“I don’t want to lose TaeTae,” TATA whispered quietly.

“I don’t want him to ever leave either. Doesn’t he belong here with us?” Cooky questioned in a sad tone.

“He says stuff implying that eventually it’ll happen, since both are able to spend more and more time apart. I don’t want that.”

“I don’t want to be alone anymore,” TATA mumbled at the alien hugged themselves tighter.

Cooky scooter closer to TATA and hugged the Daemon.

“They don’t know it yet, but we understand them. We feel their very souls. Taehyung is our missing piece and we won’t lose him again. In our very beings, we both know that those two need each other. They just don’t know it yet. It’ll work out,” Cooky whispered encouragingly

TATA sniffled before slowly nodding. It was hard to think straight when these emotions of sadness and loneliness suffocated them.

TATA brought Taehyung since they needed him. They lost him once. Then they lost him again. Losing him more just hurts too much.

The two Daemons ended up quietly thinking about a life without Taehyung - and what a lonelier lifetime it certainly was.

~

“I can’t believe I am going to be the 3rd and 4th wheel forever now!” Jungkook dramatically exclaimed at the band’s dorms.

Taehyung, sitting next to Jungkook, muffled his giggles from the exasperated reactions from the rest of the band.

“It’s not our fault you can’t flirt your the life of you, much less get anyone to date you,” Jimin rolled his eyes and stuck his tongue out at Jungkook.

Namjoon sighed in exasperation at the childish bickering between the maknaes.

“The day Jungkook goes on a date will be the

day he truly grows up!” Seokjin wailed and wiped some fake tears for dramatics. “Jungkookie will always be our little baby bun though!”

“They grow up too fast,” Hoseok said forlornly. He even patted Seokjin’s back reassuringly.

This made Taehyung crack as he bent over laughing.

BTS were much too dramatic and crazy, he was quick to learn. But at the same time, Taehyung wouldn’t change it for the world.

If you told him a year ago that he would become close friends with the famous idol group due to literally not being able to leave Jungkook’s side,

he would’ve thought that you lost your marbles.

Taehyung smiled fondly as the scene. He exchanged amused smiles with Yoongi, who simply gave Taehyung a look as if to say: Yes, these idiots actually exist. Just roll with it

Namjoon frowned as he scratched his head.

“What were we supposed to talk about again...?” he mumbled while his fellow bandmembers were re-enacting a play.

“Poor poor Jungkook and Taehyung! Both surrounded by couples 24/7!” Jimin wailed, before falling into Hoseok’s arms in an impressive dramatic faint

“How will they ever survive?” he asked allowed to no one in particular.

Jungkook scowled at the duo. “Jimin, stay fainted please. I think I like you better when you can’t talk.”

Jimin cracked an eye open, smirked deviously, before over dramatically pulling Hoseok down for a

kiss

Jungkook threw his hands up in the air. “This is exactly what I mean! Couples everywhere!”

Taehyung nudged Jungkook down while attempting to quiet his giggles.

“They’re all in love. It’s adorable,” Taehyung said reassuringly, before whispering into Jungkook’s ears

“Plus, we only have to put up with all of this PDA when we hang out with them. Next time, let’s just go play Overwatch instead of accepting their invitation to hangout at the dorms.”

The invitation to play Overwatch together caused Jungkook to immediately perk up and beam

The sight caused Jimin to roll his eyes and mumble under his breath, “Whipped much. They’re both oblivious idiots.”

Swearing he heard something, Taehyung gave Jimin a puzzled look. Jimin smiled innocently in response, before turning to their leader.

“You wanted to talk about Taehyung’s and Jungkook’s situation,” Jimin finally told Namjoon, whose eyes lit up in remembrance.

“Thanks, Jimin!” Namjoon thanked him.

“Don’t thank him if he’s part of the problem,” Yoongi pointed out since it was true. All of their dramatics got

this band meeting really off topic. All Yoongi wanted to do was sleep and perhaps cuddle his boyfriends, if they weren’t too busy acting like they were part of Romeo and Juliet.

Namjoon shrugged, before turning around and yelling loudly, “BT21, you guys can all join our meeting

as well!”

At those words, a lot of loud cries and noises sounded in the living room, before all the Daemons bursted onto the scene. RJ bowed respectfully, while Cooky was dragging Koya napping in a sleeping bag.

TATA stretched their arms and flung themselves into Taehyung

Taehyung grunted in surprise, but hugged TATA.

“TATA, how are you?” Taehyung asked curiously.

TATA smiled happily and beeped, “I’m doing fine! Tae! Tae! Play with me later!”

Taehyung grinned and nodded. “Of course! Wanna do some more fun drawings?”

This caused TATA to immediately go wild from excitement.

Taehyung relaxed a bit more as well when he realized no one was staring at him.

Everytime Taehyung talks to TATA, the members were always curious. However, after seeing it so many times, the charm eventually wore off

Namjoon sometimes got a really hard pondering look, but nowadays, he looked more happy and relaxed. Taehyung accredited it to Seokjin.

The other Daemons crawled their ways to the band. Cooky plopped themselves onto Jungkook’s lap after leaving Koya to snore in a corner

“Speaking of TATA and Cooky though, I have my suspicions. I am sure you all know about my researching,” Namjoon told them group and everyone nodded. Namjoon was taking the entire situation very seriously.

After all, this chain of events were quite unbelievable. There had to be

an explanation.

“I have some answers. Not all of them - like why Taehyung was chosen or how TATA and Cooky instictly react to him - but I do suspect some type Soul Bond between both of you. Soul Bonds can form in different ways. Some are romantic, some are necessary to live

or such. It usually happens through Daemons reacting together,” Namjoon explained.

This caused a lot of confusion and Taehyung tensed up.

“B-but... I don’t have a Daemon,” Taehyung stammered, before shrinking into himself.

Seeing Taehyung’s sensitive reaction about the topic,

Jungkook immediately wrapped an arm around Taehyung and tucked him close. He gave Namjoon a pointed look to hurry it along.

Everyone knew how sensitive Taehyung was about his lack of a Daemon. The band had to even bring it to the CEO to make sure no discrimination would happen

about Taehyung lacking a Daemon while he was living with Jungkook

The band both wanted to watch out for Taehyung, as well as cover their own butts. Bogum would probably kill them if they caused Taehyung to be upset

(Bogum was very scary at times, they would all admit)

“It’s okay, Taehyung. But to be honest, perhaps your lack of Daemon is a reason for the strange... side-effects. Soul Bonding usually allows the two owners to have a really strong bond together and just feel nice together. However, when you guys are apart, your emotions go

haywire. This is likely due to an incomplete bond. However, due to both of you spending so much time together, the bond seems to be slowly mending. Once the bond settles, you will finally be able to be completely apart without any side-effects.”

Jungkook nodded in understanding as he processed the information, while Taehyung was frowning in worry.

“A Soul Bond sounds awfully... permanent,” Taehyung hesitantly said.

That simply sentence caused TATA, Cooky, and Jungkook to freeze. None of them said it, but they were

thinking it.

Please don’t. Please don’t.

“Does that mean I have to stay with them forever?” Taehyung asked worriedly - completely oblivious to the mental breakdown next to him. Taehyung was more worried about interfering with Jungkook’s fame and activities above all else

Namjoon paused, before shaking his head. “I can’t give you a straight answer since this is uncommon. Not unheard of, but it’s very uncommon to have Soul Bonds. The research about it is very limited. The main issue is that both of your Soul Bonds just didn’t seem to settle

correctly. I don’t know the side-effects any of this could have. Perhaps if you spend time apart for long enough, it can snap in half. On the other hand, can you both handle the emotional strain to reach that point? I’m not sure. And I don’t want to risk either of your health

or safety.”

Namjoon gave Taehyung a very serious look and Taehyung gulped loudly. It was dead quiet in the room.

Most could read between the lines. Taehyung could too.

Namjoon knew what he was thinking. He wanted to break the bond. After all, being attached to Jungkook’s hip

is both impractical for both of them (the two lives VERY different lives. One traveled the world in fame, while the other simply wanted to fade into the shadows and finish schools), but also dangerous for Jungkook’s career.

Any news outlet would be glad to get those hands on

some juicy gossip about the group. Taehyung could only imagine the rumors going on, not to mention both the backlash against himself AND BTS.

There were some crazy people out there in the world. Some would probably want to tear him apart for hanging out daily (or more

accurately, weighing down) the band. Taehyung has grown to view this band as his friends.

He didn’t want to be the one who could potentially allow it to all collapse.

Taehyung was frustrated. What were they supposed to do now? They really couldn’t wait it out and hope.

The band had music and concerts to do. They had awards to win.

Taehyung was the reason why they couldn’t.

Namjoon coughed loudly and brought Taehyung’s attention back. The leader was giving him a reassuring smile

“There is no point of speculating about what-ifs right now.

The company is highly aware of the situation. If we asked for a longer break, our fans would also be very understanding. For now, let’s take it one thing at a time. You guys are able to be apart from each other at the apartments, right? How about we slowly make it farther and

it will take more time too. Bit by bit, we’ll try and improve the situation. We’ll accomplish that goal and see where we need to go from there,” Namjoon gently explained to a very tense & anxious Taehyung

The leader could see the worry and frustration in Jungkook’s eyes as well.

Taehyung hesitantly nodded and Jungkook relaxed a bit, but the fears were still in his eyes.

Sensing the tension, Seokjin squeezed Namjoon’s hand and gave him a pointed look. Namjoon nodded in agreement.

Namjoon then clapped his hands loudly and exclaimed, “So that’s the plan!

Anyways, now that’s out of the way, do you guys want to do anything in particular?”

Sensing the awkward tension in the room, members began to propose games and movies they could all do. RJ even brought some drinks for all of them while Jimin and Seokjin has a passionate argument

about the pros and cons of playing Twister or watching Sleeping Beauty - neither which anyone in particular actually wanted to do.

However, the mood greatly improved as Jungkook and Taehyung began to relax more.

Taehyung could feel that where he touched Jungkook - any contact

that they made - made his skin burn with warmth.

Taehyung could feel his heart pounding. He could sense that s o m e t h i n g was going on with Jungkook, but he didn’t know what.

And honestly?

Taehyung was a bit afraid to find out. The two were friends.

That label felt safe and comfortable.

Taehyung didn’t want to think of potential bad outcomes when he... finally found a place he belonged. A group that made him happy.

Taehyung didn’t want to lose that at all.

And so, Taehyung simply decided not to address the elephant.

The group laughed. Jungkook ended up losing Monopoly and kept complaining to Taehyung. With Jungkook’s head tucked in Taehyung’s lap, Taehyung simply pretended not to notice and teased the younger.

Being friends was safe enough. That was a good thing... right?

Taehyung didn’t need to discuss anything since certainly, he never blushed around Jungkook. He never got butterflies in his stomach. He never felt his heart pounding or a strange warmth when they were together at times.

Everything was perfectly fine as much as it could

~

“Are you sure about this?” Mrs. Kim stared at the papers scattered on her desk. “Is this truly possible?”

“Ma’am, I will say that all information I disclosed to you is certainly true. However, I am not liable for anyone of your actions. What I found, you can make of it what

you will,” the detective explained, before tipping his hat in farewell.

“Leave me,” Mrs. Kim flatly told him until the detective left.

Mrs. Kim smiled smugly. After all of these years, maybe she could finally make her son actually useful.

If she could twist all of this

information correctly, she could finally do what she wanted to do so many years ago.

Daemons were a way to get rid of your weakness. And finally, Mrs. Kim had a way to get rid of those useless emotions.

Sure, none of this was 100% certain. But she was willing to take the risk

Her worthless son might actually redeem himself, she thought with devious smirk.

It took too many years, but she didn’t want to waste a second.

Mrs. Kim was meticulous. That means she had to plan this out to the tiniest details so everything could fall into place.

Now, the real question was when was the perfect moment to snatch that alien up...

~

“Tae, why haven’t you made any moves!?” Jimin complained very, very, VERY loudly.

Taehyung replied by kicking Jimin’s leg with a sharp glare.

“Shush! Do you WANT him to hear you?” Taehyung

hissed at his best friend.

“Jungkook is too distracted right now. Both him and Cooky have been gaming for two hours by now,” Chimmy chimed in.

Jimin smiled smugly and hugged the little dog. “You’re in my side, aren’t you?” Jimin cooed to the dog. Chimmy tilted their head

Taehyung rolled his eyes. Chimmy was literally Jimin’s Daemon. Of course they would agree with each other.

Taehyung simply sighed since he knew he was fighting a losing battle, before huffing.

“I’m not making any moves in Jungkook! I don’t like him that way!” Taehyung argues

That’s when backstabbing beeps sounded next to him that exclaimed, “Tae is lying! Tae is lying! He loooooves Jungkook!”

TATA was saying that too happily and smugly. Taehyung shot Jungkook’s Daemon a betrayed look, before worriedly wondering if Jungkook already knew

“Jungkook is an oblivious muscle bunny though!” TATA cheerfully responded, as if reading Taehyung’s mind.

Taehyung was flabbergasted

Jimin muffled his giggles. Hey! It was true after all. There IS a reason why one of Jungkook’s Daemons a bunny.

Taehyung decided to ignore TATA. He certainly wasn’t blushing or in denial. It was just kinda... hot in here.

It always was hot in the apartment, especially when Jungkook decided to work out.

That was particular a very hot day. Jungkook should invest in a better AC

Jimin rolled his eyes. He could see how Taehyung was 10 feet deep in denial and was ready to be buried under it.

“Taehyung, why don’t you just ask him out? Better than both of you cuddling and flirting everytime you guys watch anime or TV,” Jimin insisted

Taehyung sputtered.

“It isn’t flirting!!!” Taehyung loudly insisted.

Jimin raised an eyebrow.

“Jungkook literally called you more of an angel than the actual angel in screen. Then you two kept whispering and completely ignored the show and ME. I was there. I existed,” Jimin

said, before throwing his arms up in exasperation.

Taehyung was flustered, as he recalled that conversation.

Jungkook called him an angel and said he thought he was one since the moment Jungkook first saw him. That made Taehyung basically melt into a puddle right then and there

(He kinda wished Jungkook would call him an angel again... but definitely in a platonic manner. Yeah! That’s EXACTLY what he wanted. One bro could call another bro an angel. Platonically. No big deal)

“...”

“...”

Jimin gave Taehying a flat stare and that’s when Taehyung’s

resolve finally crumbled.

“Jimin, I think I’m actually in love with Jungkook!” Taehyung finally admitted, before muffling his face into a pillow. The pillow even smelled like Jungkook, Taehyung sighed.

“About time,” Jimin mumbled under his breath, before nudging Taehyung

playfully. “Why don’t you just tell him? The tension is absolutely KILLING me. You guys dance around it more than Namjoon and Seokjin! Just kiss already!”

Taehyung shook his head and tightened his grip on the pillow, before turning to face TATA.

“TATA, please leave,” Taehyung

said. “I can’t talk to Jimin about this if you are here. Promise me you won’t tell anyone about what was said in this room, okay? Promise?”

TATA frowned and curled into themself. They were getting kicked out because Taehyung didn’t trust them enough...

Seeing TATA deflate, Taehyung immediately backtracked.

“TATA, I just want some privacy, okay? I love you. It isn’t your fault. I just want some Jiminie time to myself right now. It isn’t anything that interesting. How about you go play with Cooky or Chimmy?” Taehyung asked

Even though he LOVED TATA, he also knew that the alien was very... chatty when excited. TATA seemed to either be really energetic and playful, or sometimes more melancholy and sad. Taehyung didn’t want TATA to remain in sad mode.

The sight absolutely broke his heart

At the same time, he was definitely not comfortable pouring out his love life with Jungkook’s Daemon in the room.

Scratching his head for a compromise, Taehyung gave Jimin a pleading look

Jimin winked, before picking up Chimmy

“Chimmy, are you hungry for some treats?”

Chimmy nodded their head and TATA perked up.

Treats?

“Tae, didn’t you say there was some cake and popcorn in the kitchen?” Jimin asked Taehyung curiously, and Taehyung grinned and nodded.

“There sure is! We were saving it for later, but how about you two grab some right now?”

With the tempting offer of food, TATA and Chimmy perked up and both nodded, before scurrying away.

Taehyung fell onto the bed and groaned loudly.

“Jiminie, you’re a genius,” his voice muffled on the bed sheets.

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Tell me something I don’t know.”

Taehyung rolled over and looked at Jimin.

“We can’t be together,” he said flatly to Jimin.

Jimin rolled his eyes at Taehyung reply and Taehyung frowned

“I’m being serious here!” Taehyung huffed and Jimin smiled amusingly

“Okay, Mr. Serious. Tell me your reasons then!”

Taehyung sat up straight and began to count the reasons. “One, myself dating Jungkook could cause a huge scandal-“

“The media is ALWAYS going to make a scandal out of nothing. Does that matter when you have us to support you?” Jimin countered back, but Taehyung ignored him

“Second, your company might not allow it and get you guys in trouble-“

Jimin snorted. “Our dating contacts are LONG gone. The entire band is dating. You don’t have to worry about that at all. Honestly, I think the company gave up and just decided to let us do whatever we want.”

Taehyung froze and blinked in surprise. “Really? Your dating contracts are already over? I mean, I assumed they just expired recently when you all got together.”

Jimin raised an eyebrow. When they didn’t have a dating contract anymore, it was a HUGE deal.

Times like this, it was quite refreshing to know that Taehyung didn’t really know “BTS” that well, besides that they were really popular.

Perhaps that was a factor of how Taehyung was able to squeeze into their group so quickly since he treated them like people rather than idols

Jimin waves Taehyung off and said, “Nah. We can date any time we wanted for a long time. Some of us had even a few hook-ups here and there, but nothing serious. But seriously, Tae. Company is probably already chill with it, so you won’t get in trouble or anything like that.”

Taehyung was biting his lip. He knows he should be focusing on Jimin debunking his points, but...

He was hung up on the words: hook-ups

As if seeing Taehyung’s reactions, Jimin smiled fondly and said, “Jungkook is much to shy to approach anyone else. Plus, people don’t usually

treat him like a “human” because he had two Daemons. He was never comfortable enough to meet people, until you.”

In Jimin’s humble opinion, the two idiots should just kiss already, get married, and let this pining drama be done with already.

But it was also amusing to watch

Taehyung sagged in relief, but he also felt sad at the same time.

He didn’t think about it.

People always treated him like an outcast for not having a Daemon.

Jungkook had two and was treated like a god.

Sadly, both ended up feeling very isolating either way

Taehyung’s hearted ached for Jungkook. He wondered how similar their lives actually were. Maybe not that different after all

“Are you going to continue already, or are you ready to admit defeat?” Jimin asked teasingly. “If you say anything about just being a student or such,

we both know that doesn’t matter. After all, you are OUR friend and we don’t care about any of that. And that includes having a Daemon or not. We just want Taehyung. I can see it in Jungkook’s eyes that he feels the same way. He likes you the way you are, TaeTae.”

Taehyung bit his lip, feeling unsure.

He always knew Jungkook didn’t care about him being an “ordinary student,” nor did Jungkook ever ridicule him for his lack of a Daemon.

But was he really willing to take the risk and ask Jungkook on a date?

Wouldn’t it be better to hold these feelings in and let Jungkook thrive in the life he already has?

Jungkook is already a handsome, talented, famous, rich, AND gifted man. To top it all off, he has two Daemons as well

What could Taehyung offer him?

Jimin could see the conflict on Taehyung’s face and squeezed his arm reassuringly

“Tae, you should follow your heart. I wish I could’ve done that sooner myself. It is better to try, than have regrets. Live life to the fullest, rather than looking back and thinking what-ifs.”

Taehyung sighed in defeat, before nodding.

He already knew in his heart what he needed to do, but he’s just been avoiding it like a coward for so long.

“I’ll talk to Jungkook. Maybe I’ll ask him on a date. If it works out, yay. If not, then it’s fine,” Taehyung muttered to

himself. Taehyung had a brave face on, but Jimin could see that the younger was very afraid for the future

He hugged his best friend tightly

“No matter what happens, I’ll be here,” Jimin whispered reassuringly

Taehyung smiled, grateful for Jimin.

Little did they both know about the ripples this would lead to

~

Bogum sat in his car, tapping his wheel impatiently.

His dog Daemon anxiously walked back and forth in the back of the car.

Both had a bad feeling in their guts. They didn’t know what, but they both knew it was because of Taehyung.

“I can see the look on your face,” his manager next to him sighed tiredly. “I’m sorry, but you can’t just drop everything and run away just because you feel like it. You have a job to do, Bogum. You have employees and co-workers waiting for you.”

Bogum bit his cheek. He already knew that.

But he also knew in his gut that something felt wrong.

“Are you sure I can’t reschedule it?” Bogum asked his manager.

His manager gave him a pointed look, before shaking his head.

“It’s too last minute. You are filming for a drama

after all. We can’t delay it. After the drama, we have that commercial shoot we need to do. Then there is an interview arranged tonight and tomorrow,” his manager rattled off his schedule.

Bogum sighed tiredly. He felt too drained to argue about this.

Maybe he was just being

paranoid or something. He’ll call Taehyung later instead

~

“Pleeeeaaaassseee hyung! Pretty pretty please with a cherry on top!” Taehyung begged a very worried Namjoon.

The leader sighed tiredly. “I don’t know, Taehyung...” Namjoon trialed off in an unsure tone.

Taehyung knew it was a big deal, but he still wanted to do it! He needed to make sure the two of them were in the clear before Taehying even asked Jungkook out onto the date.

“Jungkook hasn’t left the apartment, besides visiting Big Hit or you guys. He hasn’t went out to eat,

hang out with friends, or anything because it was too much of a hassle with me. I feel bad. I want to take Jungkook out and just de-stress with a fun day!” Taehyung repeated pleadingly.

“But still... we don’t know all the details about both of your situations. What if

something bad happens?” Namjoon explained his worries. “Do you know what you are asking? The higher-ups wanted you guys to stay here to keep both of your situations hush-hush. That’s why we are on hiatus in the first place. If both of you show up somewhere, people might try to

sniff something up. Especially with your interesting... entrance during our concert.”

Taehyung flinched at the memory. That was very much embarrassing, even if Taehyung was glad it was Jungkook’s lap he landed on.

“That happened weeks ago!” Taehyung exclaimed and threw his arms up in emphasis. “Also, I’m a nobody. No one will care about me. Jungkook can wear a mask and we can both have fun together at an amusement park. Please, hyung. Ask your bosses so Jungkook can unwind a bit!”

“C’mon, Namjoon! We both know the brat hasn’t had fun outside in a while!” Jimin playfully hollered from another room.

Namjoon rolled his arms tiredly. The maknaes were all certainly... something.

Namjoon also knew when the battle was lost.

“Fine,” Namjoon finally conceded as Taehyung cheered happily in victory. He even did a little victory dance. “I’ll ask the company. However, no promises.”

Taehyung beamed at Namjoon. “You asking them is enough already!”

Taehyung had a feeling that Namjoon could handle the

situation. In other words, date place assured.

Now what’s left is to ask Jungkook and then they could both have fun at the park together!

Nerves attacked him as Taehyung drew close to the fact he needed to ask Jungkook on a “date” and perhaps “confess” to the other.

Namjoon smiled softly at the happy boxy smile in front of him, before ruffling Taehyung’s hair.

Taehyung loudly protested as the leader walked away.

Taehyung pouted. He was older than Jungkook, but he was still treated like the baby!

Though a small part of him was still glad

that the group treated him like a close friend in all.

Taehyung hummed a happy sound, as he twiddled his thumbs nervously.

He could do this. Everything was going to plan.

Now he had to actually ask Jungkook on a... not-date. Maybe even confess if he can.

Oh fun.

~

Jungkook fiddled with a pencil and sighed. Lyrics came a lot harder than he thought.

He turned his head to see Cooky playing video games on his phone while TATA was buried underneath a pile of blankets.

Jungkook leaned to his right to whisper to Cooky, “Is TATA okay?”

Cooky looked towards the pile, before shaking their heads.

“TATA is upset,” Cooky replied sadly. The bunny’s ears drooped a bit.

Jungkook frowned. He could vaguely sense that, but why?

As if sensing his question, Cooky shook his head. So Cooky didn’t know either

Jungkook stood up and walked towards his bed, before sitting down.

“TATA, are you okay?” Jungkook asked gently. There was a pause of silence

“...I hate sweets,” TATA beeped back.

Jungkook raised his eyebrows. Sweets? TATA loves sweets.

TATA then began to rapidly beep

his explanation, but Jungkook could only pull out some phrases such as: Chimmy is traitor, cookies were distraction, TATA is unwanted, etc.

Each phrase made Jungkook even more worried. Jungkook tenderly set side the blanket and picked up the alien.

TATA had such a pitiful look

on their face that Jungkook’s own heart actually broke.

“TATA, we all love you. You know that. Why do you think such things? Did you get into a fight with Chimmy?” Jungkook gently asked, but TATA shook their head and was silent.

There was a long silence as TATA avoided any

eye contact while Jungkook was worriedly checking up in the alien to see if they were hurt.

That’s when they heard a loud DING and Cooky quickly ran to the bed.

“Jungkookie! TATA! Hyungie sent a message!” Cooky happily exclaimed as he handed Jungkook the phone

Jungkook quickly skimmed the message, before smiling. He looked down at TATA. He knew immediately that this would cheer up the Daemon.

“Hey, TATA, do you want to go to the amusement park?”

~

Taehyung tugged his sleeve nervously. Did he look nice?

Jungkook, wearing both a mask and a hat, nudged Taehyung playfully.

“Hyung, you haven’t stopped moving for a moment. Have fun! I’m so excited! Do you like rollercoasters?” Jungkook asked excitedly

Jungkook looked so happy and thrilled, unlike a very shaky Taehyung

Jungkook had 0 ideas that this was a not-date Taehyung planned to eventually build up to a confession by the end of the day.

Taehyung smiled slowly. His legs were trembling a bit

That’s when Jungkook grabbed Taehyung’s hand and intertwined them together.

The idol squeezed Taehyung’s sweaty hands and Taehyung could swear that his heart could jump out of his throat at any moment

He took a deep breath. He needed to put on the poker face that he has developed over the years

Taehyung nodded at Jungkook and squeezed back, before

looking down at the two small figures following behind them.

TATA and Cooky were wearing two very big black jackets that covered their faces and their body.

If Taehyung didn’t know any better, he would say that they were the Daemons of mafia members.

However, the outfits

given by BigHit were understandable. TATA and Cooky were famous around the world. Seeing those two around would blow their cover faster than blinking.

“Let’s go on a rollercoaster,” Taehyung smiled back. Jungkook grinned widely.

Taehyung could swear up and down that stars

were shining in Jungkook’s eyes. It was magical.

~

“We’ve been on the Ferris wheel, we shopped around, and we also went on the teacups. What next?” Taehyung wondered outloud, but honestly? He didn’t even need to ask because he could already seen Jungkook staring at one place in

particular

It was the pirate ship. Taehyung smiled fondly.

TATA and Cooky were both especially excited, based on their reactions to run toward the ride

Taehyung glanced at Jungkook, before dragging the idol after the two run-away Daemons. “We better hurry before we lose them!”

Somehow, amidst all the fun, they missed someone lurking from afar and snapping photos.

It would all blow up the next day, which was the start of everything falling to pieces.

~

The phone is buzzing loudly. Jungkook groaned, while Taehyung sleepily got up to pick it up.

It was Jimin.

Taehyung rubbed his eyes sleepily before picking up and say, “Hello?”

“Tae, you need to watch the news. Right now.”

Taehyung yawned and replied, “I just woke up.”

“Tae, I’m dead serious. You need to watch the news. It concerns your... past. Well, you should watch it yourself. It is everywhere. It involves you and Jungkook, so you should probably wake him up too,” Jimin said in a dead serious tone.

That immediately woke Taehyung up.

He hung up and shook awake a snoring Jungkook.

“Jungkook, wake up,” Taehyung said. Jungkook still didn’t wake up, so he shook him harder. “Kook, wake up! C’mon. It’s an emergency. Jungkook!”

There was a pause, before Jungkook sitting up and yawning.

“I liked it when you called

me Kook...” Jungkook mumbled

Taehyung flushed in embarrassment, before gently shaking the two Daemons between them awake.

Taehyung quickly filled them in and they immediately rushed towards the tv to see what was going on

It was like Jimin said

It was everywhere.

It was Taehyung’s worst nightmare.

~

“Those bastards!” Jungkook spat out angrily and Cooky angrily munched in a carrot in agreement.

Namjoon sighed tiredly. He and the rest of the band immediately went to Taehyung and Jungkook’s apartment when the news

first dropped

As expected, there was plenty of a paparazzi looking for the band and duo for some gossip. Fortunately, they didn’t know where Jungkook or Taehyung was... but no doubt, that was a new security issue they needed to worry about

Just great

Namjoon could feel his

phone vibrating. No doubt, messages from the company and a very worried Park Bogum.

Namjoon was too tired to deal with all of this sometimes...

“At least we finally have an answer why you have two Daemons and the connection between you and Taehyung,” Hoseok tried to cheer

Jungkook up, but those words only made Jungkook easier

“But who had the right to DIG through Taehyung’s past, publicize everything about him, and drag him into this mess!” Jungkook growled angrily. His body was even shaking from anger

The rest exchanged looks

The fact that someone went to such lengths and PUBLICIZED it all was - no doubt - going to get a lawsuit from the company. It was dragging BTS and a civilian into this entire mess

The damage was already done, however

“How is the damage?” Namjoon asked tiredly

Seokjin was scrolling through his phone and replied, “Mixed. Some are sympathetic since this whole situation was out of both of your controls, but others are furiously jealous of Taehyung. So, as well as we all expected.”

Great. Just great

Seokjin shook his head in disbelief and sighed loudly before stating, “I really can’t believe it though. So the whole reason why Jungkook has two Daemons... is that one of them is actually Taehyung’s. Which one is already quite obvious as well.” The man gestures towards the clear

absence of a certain upset alien upon the news as well

“Daemons are full of mysteries,” Yoongi grimaced. “From the gist of what the news is saying, before Daemons develop, if the Daemons feel like their lives are in danger, they will find another person to bind themselves to.

However, this bond is basically the equivalent to a life bond. The Daemon finds the most compatible person based on their soul. This bonds all four for life. It’s a special type of soul connection. Sadly, a lot of fans are upset because of this.”

All the members had exchanged looks. The press was having a field day. The company must be stressed out of their minds

“So basically, Taehyung’s Daemon sensed they were in danger before it could even first appear. But WHY would Taehyung’s Daemon sense that in the first place?”

Jungkook immediately knew the answer to that.

Mrs. Kim

Jungkook explained the departing threatening words of how the lady desired to end Taehyung’s Daemon if he ever had one

Everyone had a horrified look on their faces. She was absolutely crazy

And that was their answer

But now, the entire group was stuck with the question about what to do NEXT.

The paparazzi caught Taehyung and Jungkook out in the amusement park. This led into the news divulging the “special” connection the two shared and even explain Taehyung’s

whole lack of Daemon, what he did in school, where he lived, and bits of his family history

With Taehyung’s face everywhere and the paparazzi out to get him, it was obviously not safe for the other to leave anywhere till this all settled down

“Do you think Taehyung is okay?” Hoseok asked worriedly and glanced at Jungkook’s and Taehyung’s shared bedroom.

Yoongi squeezed his boyfriend’s shoulder and said, “Trust Jimin. He is going to be there for Taehyung. Just give him some space.”

Hoseok nodded in agreement

Yoongi then addressed the rest of the group by saying, “Now we know that if Taehyung and Jungkook spend enough time together, their bond will finally completely settle. Their extreme reactions were a result of their bond first reacting. At least we know so we can plan for it in

the future. However, this also leaves the question about what are we all going to do now till this all settles down?”

Their was a tense silent at the serious question

“We should go to Big Hit,” Namjoon sighed tiredly. Everyone else did, knowing the giant crowd around the

building as a result of this. Namjoon turned to Jungkook and said,”Jungkook, you should wait here for a while. We’ll give you updates later.”

Jungkook nodded understandingly, since he was the main focus of this all as well

He hugged them all tightly goodbye, before he was left

alone in the room. He could hear the faint crying from Taehyung and the comforting words of Jimin in their room.

Jungkook clenched his hands. He has never felt so powerless till that point

~

Mrs. Kim smiled, feeling very pleased. Everything was going to plan as expected.

After her research, she decided to expose the truth between the relationship between her son and that idol

It was the easiest way to drive those two apart.

Mrs. Kim knew her son. He was a weak child - useless from the very beginning - all because he wore his heart on his sleeve

He worried about others and had a huge heart. That huge heart made it all the easier to bleed because of a few cruel words.

It was quite a pathetic fact, but Mrs. Kim could easily utilize that fact to her advantage

Taehyung was too weak to stand up to the scrutiny of others

He already dealt with it enough due to his outcast status for lacking a Daemon

He didn’t do well with others and he was too believing with what others would say about him.

The fact that her son is getting blasted my the media makes it all the more pleasant

Dragging up his dirty laundry would even it even worse for him, which makes it better for her

Factor in the fact that that idol’s company certainly doesn’t want to deal with a huge scandal will try to remedy the situation. Perhaps force the two to spend some time apart while

having performances and press conferences.

The two bonded will easily get separated bit by bit by bit.

Mrs. Kim’s lips curled into a smile. She could see all the variables laid out before her. It was so simple, she could laugh

Her son’s will is going to crumble as the days go

by.

When he is at his most vulnerable state, she will strike.

Not to mention that Bogum guy was in her pocket as well, so that will make it all the more easier

After so many years, she might actually make her son into something useful

She was an amazing mother, right?

~

Bogum scowled as he clenched his phone as he read the news articles

He KNEW he had a bad feeling. He asked Taehyung about it, but he brushed it off as a friendly “date” with Jungkook

The actor sighed in distress. Now Taehyung was dragged straight into the spotlight

Taehyung has told Bogum about the fact that Taehyung wanted to confess his feelings to Jungkook over a few dates, but those plans were obviously very much dashed

In fact, Bogum grimaced, he should probably protest any date against the two

Taehyung doesn’t deserve to be

dragged into the spotlight, especially since he didn’t ask for it

Bogum didn’t want to admit it, but he was scarred for his best friend.

He wasn’t sure if Taehyung could handle the scrutiny and cruel words

The things is, is that Taehyung has always had a bright smile, but Bogum watched it dim over the years.

Bogum has never seen a brighter smile when he talked about Jungkook and the other BTS members.

He didn’t want that smile to be taken away either

Bogum sighed. He didn’t know

what to do, especially if the news is right, the two have bonded

Bogum picked up his Daemon. The dog looked at him with a similar look of distress

“What should we do?” he asked to no one in particular. “I have an idea, but I don’t know if it’s the right thing to do.”

His Daemon gave an encouragingly bark, and Bogum sighed.

“I had a feeling you would think that,” he said tiredly, before picking up his phone. He needed to call Namjoon

Ugh. The fact that he has to deal with this and has yet to get Jimin’s autograph is just plain bad luck

~

“...And that’s what the company decided,” Namjoon explained to an increasingly angry Jungkook and a rather morose Taehyung

“So we are being separated? By force?” Jungkook snapped angrily

“It’s only going to be temporary, but at the moment, it’s mostly out of our hands.

I was hoping it would only be more time prompting and press conferences. The group would go around and clarify the rumors and such. However, we got a suggestion from Bogum and the company really likes it.”

Jungkook crossed his arms angrily. F*ck Bogum. What did HE know?

“Jungkook, you will come with us in a few days to go attend interviews and such. Taehyung, on the other hand, will go and live with Bogum until this all calms down. Sadly, you will both have to cope with being separated. The company is currently researching more about your bond.”

“In other words, they don’t know how this will affect us, but just hoping for the best,” Jungkook said flatly.

Namjoon winced, but nodded. “If the two of you really CANNOT stand being separated, we will figure something out. However, based on both of your feedbacks over the

weeks, you are slowly able to be father and farther apart without having freakouts. Think of this as a test trial, more than anything else.”

Jungkook shook his head. He didn’t like it. It didn’t sit right with him. He couldn’t keep an eye on a strangely quiet Taehyung either

Taehyung has been so silent, but he was supposed to be loud and teasing. It didn’t feel right and was worrying for him

Jungkook didn’t want to leave him alone.

However, Taehyung shook his head.

“I agree with Namjoon. Let’s try.” Tae avoided all eye contact with everyone

Jimin frowned worriedly, but Taehyung didn’t even give anyone else a glance.

There was an awkward pause of silence.

Junglook gritted his teeth. To say he was upset was an understatement. Taehyung was acting strangely and it didn’t set right with him to leave it like this

The company was also shoving their noses into business that wasn’t theirs.

Jungkook wanted to protest the separation. Everything about this was wrong.

He didn’t want to leave Taehyung’s side.

However, he could see the anxious looks on the other members’ faces.

He knew this was all upsetting to them as well. To have to deal with this suddenly was very stressful.

“This isn’t a permanent arrangement. Just temporary till this all dies down a bit,” Namjoon explained to Jungkook gently.

Jungkook clenched his fists, before sighing

“Okay, let’s try it,” he muttered quietly

And that was that.

Silently, Taehyung packed his stuff away from the apartment.

As Taehyung started to erase any trace that he spent living there, there was another matter at hand

“How about TATA?” Hoseok asked with a confused look

TATA was moping sadly in a corner. Chimmy tried to cheer their best friend up, but TATA was unresponsive

“TATA can go with Jungkook. It would work out better!” Taehyung said calmly with a blank face.

Those words caused TATA to suddenly awaken and eyes water.

“Are you going to leave us?” TATA mumbled softly and Chimmy rubbed the Daemon’s back reassuringly

“This is all just temporary!” Seokjin tried to remind everyone, but a sad mood hung in the air.

Taehyung and Jungkook didn’t talk at all in the heavy, tense silence

Taehyung was about to leave to be escorted to Bogum’s place, when Cooky hugged Taehyung’s leg.

“Please don’t go,” Cooky mumbled into Taehyung’s legs.

Something about that just broke Taehyung as eyes watered and he crouched down to hug the bunny.

“I’ll be back soon,” Taehyung

tried to reassure to bunny, but Cooky shook their head.

“Take me with you. Don’t leave me alone. Don’t leave ‘us’ alone,” Cooky’s soft voice pleaded with Taehyung

He didn’t want to see Taehyung walk out of their lives for good. Taehyung could easily change his mind and

disappear from their lives.

Cooky didn’t want to lose Taehyung. They didn’t want to risk it. They knew it in their very being that this feeling - this is what Jungkook felt as well

Jungkook didn’t want to see Taehyung walk away from them, even if his owner was trying to accept

it

“Why don’t we let TATA stay with Jungkook, and Cooky stay with Taehyung? I don’t know about you guys, but it doesn’t feel right to leave Taehyung completely alone without any company. At least Cooky can stay with him as a compromise,” Yoongi suggested.

His suggestion floored everyone. It was so simple, yet immediately lightened the dramatics.

Some members (*cough cough Jungkook and Jimin cough cough*) were acting as if this was going to be a farewell for many years or forever

The others were just worried about Taehyung

If they at least had Cooky keeping an eye on Taehyung, it would relieve the burden a lot more.

It was perfect!

The suggestion welcomed by everyone and the mood immediately brightened

Cooky and Taehyung were immediately snuck to Bogum’s place under everyone’s noses

They had to be especially careful so no one could catch wind of their whereabouts

Taehyung sighed tiredly in the car as he watched the scenery go by. Meanwhile, Cooky was bouncing up and down in the seat next to him, looking at the passing scenery with bright eyes

It reminded Taehyung of Jungkook. Jungkook, who kept pointing at every amusement attraction excitedly as if he has never seen it before. The same unofficial date that dragged them into this mess

Taehyung sighed again. In the end, he never got the opportunity to confess to

Jungkook. He wrote Jungkook an entire song, which he planned to show the other, if this entire mess didn’t get in the way

And now, Taehyung was unsure if he should even show Jungkook

After all, he wasn’t anyone special and he probably just got in the way of everything...

Taehyung looked at the scenery passing by with a longing look.

He didn’t know quite what to do anymore.

He just knew in his gut that something was wrong. Either his confession was going to go horribly wrong, or something else was going to go bad. And Taehyung didn’t want either

(Trigger warnings ahead for possible gore/danger/etc. Warning in case you are easily triggered so please take precautions! There will be a warning as well when the scene actually happens!)

~

Jungkook tensed, while TATA tightly hugged him. The alien was actually trembling and shying away from the piercing stares.

Jungkook was ready to scream and yell at the interviewer, but someone placed their hand on his shoulder and squeezed it in warning.

Jungkook gritted his teeth, but forced himself to react.

Everything was just all wrong and awful and Jungkook honestly just wanted to go home and go to bed for the rest of eternity.

He has never held any love for when interviews pried too deeply into their personal lives.

Jungkook has had too many of those pulling up reminders of his “achievements” and “specialness” for both having two Daemons and being extra talented.

However, this interview was prying way too deep and was involving someone he cared about

It was a struggle for Jungkook to focus AND he was the main focus.

The question echoed in his mind

“How do you feel about Kim Taehyung interrupting your lives and how TATA is not actually your Daemon?”

It had no respect for Taehyung or TATA. Funny how people used to praise

TATA can suddenly regard the alien as something flawed or strange

Someone reached out and held Jungkook hand tightly, while another put their arm around Jungkook reassuringly. It was Jimin and Yoongi.

Jimin was clenching Jungkook’s hand so tightly to the point it actually hurt

It made sense, since Jimin and Taehying were “soulmates” and all.

Jungkook had no doubt that Jimin was holding himself back from some few choice words.

At least Jimin had more self control, than Seokjin - who just right out said what he thought

“Why are you saying “interrupting our lives”? Seojin with a frown and a sharp look in his eyes.

The lady was flustered for a moment and said, “That is simply what many of your fans are saying about him.”

Yoongi hugged Jungkook tighter.

“ARMYs have always been our supporters

from the start and they are our family. However, Taehyung is a friend above all else and we ‘chose’ to be friends,” Namjoon replied for the group with a charming dimple smile.

“Mhm! We have always spent time together while brainstorming album or song ideas. However, we quickly

learned to keep Taehyung as far from the kitchen or else. He’s almost as bad as Namjoon,” Hoseok quickly interjected with a cheerful smile. His last words caused a cheerful laugh, while the smile fell out of Namjoon’s face

The leader pouted

“Namjoon used the wrong side of a knife, while Taehyung managed to make soup burn. They’re both a menace to the kitchen,” Yoongi said bluntly, but you could hear the teasing in his voice

Shifting the negative image away, the band members were cementing the fact that Taehyung

was a FRIEND and did not force the friendship upon them.

Jungkook smiled. His bandmates were amazing. Despite being the main focus of the interview, the others managed to do his work for him when they realized Jungkook was not in the mental state to act professionally

He loves his hyungs more than anything else. Jungkook didn’t even need to speak while they immediately read him

Jungkook felt himself relax more and less tense than before

“Taehyung is a dear friend and had a large, caring heart - no matter what others may say.

And even if TATA may not be MY Daemon, we still have a bond of several years and I love him. Nothing will change that, right, TATA?” Jungkook explained and the alien finally looked at the interviewer

TATA grinned and nodded their head excitedly.

And from there, the interview was slowly able to cover all questions necessary and shifted towards their next comeback

Jungkook sagged in the car and stretched his arms. He was exhausted

“I’m proud of you, Jungkook!” Seokjin playfully ruffled his hair and Jungkook battered the

hand away with a mischievous grin

Being any mischief could happen, Namjoon handed Jungkook a cold bottle of water

“Good job, Jungkook. You kept your cool and was professional. I know this is hard though. How are you feeling with the...?”

“Separation?” Jungkook sighed

“Hyung, to be honest, I feel more on edge and just angrier without Taehyung. I miss him and Cooky...”

Namjoon nodded in understanding. “To be honest, we will eventually have to go back for Cooky since people might get suspicious where they are. You can see Taehyung then, right?”

Jungkook’s eyes lit up.

“Can I really?” he asked excitedly and Namjoon chuckled, before nodding.

“We’ll keep it a secret from the company,” Namjoon winked. “We’ll try to make it as soon as possible.”

Jungkook smiled in relief. He was looking forward to that.

Hopefully, it would be a lot sooner than later!

Meanwhile, Mrs. Kim frowned as she listened to the conversation.

She bit her lip. This wasn’t going to plan

She needs to target TATA. She couldn’t do that if the Daemon was surrounded by bodyguards and eyes everywhere

If she wanted to kill that Daemon, she needed to get it away from the boy group.

That was irritating

Mrs. Kim tried to think hard about what she could do to separate TATA.
Then, an idea hit her.

Sure, BTS was guarded tightly for their own safety. But Taehyung? Not so much...

She tapped her fingers thoughtfully.

She stayed with Bogum, so surely it would be easy enough to dig up where Taehyung was hiding.

Her pathetic son probably wouldn’t even be able to put up much of a fight.

If he did, well, it’s not like she really cared much about what

happened to him, as long as he didn’t die. The dead weren’t useful to her, after all.

Mrs. Kim stretched her arms and stood up.

All her plans usually went perfectly, but she needs more information to formulate one. That means a visit to a certain Park Bogum then-

...

“Get. Out.” The male in front of her had the nerve to block the doorway.

Mrs. Kim clicked her tongue in disappoint. Bogum was actually trembling from anger and he was clenching the door tightly

It was so disappointing that someone’s emotions could prevent them from seeing

the truth

“I simply want you to tell me where my son is. It is not that hard,” she flatly said and simply watched the male grit his teeth angrily

“I swore on your parents’ graves to protect YOUR son at any cost. I did my best to do exactly that and even did whatever you wanted

to protect him. You are ABSOLUTELY crazy if you THINK I’m allowing Taehyung near you ever again! I did that once under the assumption that I was protecting him, but now I realize that I need to protect him from YOU at all costs. You don’t view him as a son. You view Taehyung was

a tool that you can twist for whatever you want,” Bogum spat at her angrily with a deadly look in his eyes. He was even shaking and his Daemon loyalty barked at her warningly.

Mrs. Kim tilted her head, before smirking.

This is exactly what Mrs. Kim meant. Emotions made people

useless

“If you were like me, you would realize how much having emotions can weigh you down and prevents you looking past your mistakes,” she said simply because it was true. Bogum didn’t even seem to realize his mistake because he was so angry

Bogum opened his mouth to yell

at her, but she held up her hand to prevent that.

“How about I come in and we can talk about it? The sooner we can talk about it, the sooner I can leave. I have places to be,” she asked curtly before glancing at her watch.

It was true. She was spending too much time listening

to the actor spew useless things.

Bogum scowled, before finally letting her in. “Let’s finish this conversation quickly,” he said before marching into the living room.

“Of course,” Mrs. Kim answered, before taking off her shoes. She picked up the car keys Bogum left

hanging on the wall and calmly, efficiently removing the apartment keys. “I’ll be right there.”

Park Bogum was so upset and angry that he didn’t even seem to notice what she was doing. He was, instead, stomping around in the living room

It was too easy. Way, way too easy

Mrs. Kim smiled smugly as she slid the key into her bag. In only a few seconds, things were falling into place.

Mrs. Kim looked around the apartment, both wondering and evaluating the place. She easily filed away different details that may be useful later

Mrs. Kim walked into the living room and sat across from a bristling Park Bogum.

For an actor, something about her son seemed to push all the right buttons to lose his cool. It was quite amusing to see

He didn’t even notice that he unintentionally slip out that her son was here

He was simply too protective and too hasty. His emotions clouded most of his rational.

Mrs. Kim chuckled and shook her head. This caused the male to bristle even more

She smiled charmingly at her, but no warmth in her eyes.

“Don’t be dumb now. Cooperate with me.”

Bogum scoffed and crossed his arms. Bomi growled threateningly at her

Mrs. Kim’s eye twitched. She was very tempted to shut the dog up in the manner it deserved, but no matter

Bogum was backed into a corner either way, and he knew it

“We both know who pulls the strings around

here. I have connections far and wide across the country and I can make your lives both a living hell if you refused to cooperate with me.”

Bogum snapped loudly, “Like I even care! You are not gong an INCH near Taehyung ever again. You hurt him way more than any hell you could

put me through.”

Mrs. Kim leaned back in her chair. “Are you absolutely sure of that?”

Park Bogum gritted his teeth, but nodded stubbornly

An idiot, but a protective, loyal idiot at least

Mrs. Kim sighed, before standing up.
“Fine then. I will leave you alone then.”

Bogum raised an eyebrow with a wary look on his face. “I highly doubt that.”

Mrs. Kim arched a brow.

“I can’t hurt you very much, unfortunately, due to being a popular actor. That would attack too many... unwanted bugs. However-“ Mrs. Kim smiled coldly, “if something ever

happens to your reputation while you are out and about... Well, that’s not my fault, is it?”

Bogum spammed his hands on the table.

“Get. Out.”

Mrs. Kim smiled. “I am going to be late for my appointment, so I was on my way out anyways. Goodbye.”

As she exited the apartment, the door loudly slammed behind her.

She snorted. How petty of him.

At least, now she guaranteed that likely neither would leave the apartment. A scandal could ruin Bogum’s career and she doubted that he could bear the thought that Taehyung could get

hurt.

Piece by piece, things were falling into place. She checked her watch.

She did need to get a hurry on. She had places she needed to be.

~

“Bogum...?” Taehyung asked hesitantly

He peeked his head from his room

Bogum sighed. “You heard that?”

Taehyung winced. All of it

(I finally finished my exams, but I’m pretty mentally drained :,) Hopefully my teachers limit the projects and possible finals haha. Update will be longer tomorrow!)