Archive of Our Own ^beta

When Jungkook had woken up in the morning, he’d taken utmost care to plan out the perfect day for himself. 

For starters, it was a rare, completely work free day off. No meetings whatsoever. His alpha was out of town for majority of the day, flying in later that night from his long ass work trip. Jungkook — busy with consecutive shoots and events of his own — barely had time to stay home and relax. 

So when his manager and the rest of their team had presented the idea of a day without a single meeting blocking his rest, the omega had been eager to accept. It was going to be him, his baby Ryung and hopefully a marathon of comfort content and good food. If anyone wanted to visit, they could do so while he lazed away at home, thank you very much. 

Taehyung would be home by the end of the day, making for perfectly planned twenty-four hours for the actor. 

The day was to be spent without much worry, probably even giving him ample time to buy his son some new clothes. 

They had underestimated how quickly Ryung could grow over the span of two weeks. 

He already knew his husband was going to be immensely disheartened on having been away for a week. Ryung had just started rolling over and blabbering, easily able to distinguish his appa, papa and closest family. 

And so — as he’s already mentioned — Jungkook was all set to enjoy a perfect day. 

But if that was truly the case, the omega wonders how and why he’s found himself in this position - Ryung peacefully beating the bed with his toy train as Jungkook holds him, staring at his iPad screen in abject horror as the atrocious, downright disturbing headline scorches at his insides: 

Kim Taehyung: A glaringly regressive red flag and reasons why Jeon Jungkook deserves better

The article, as Jungkook hesitantly reads on, is much much worse. 

The writer — whoever they are — had picked any and every possible scenario they could twist their own way, prodding away at each personal aspect of their life. It started from their impossible to ignore age gap, and ended at — even though Jungkook dreaded to read it — their hasty marriage and Ryung’s birth. Add in a sprinkle of their past relationships and worst moments, and they were golden. 

It slowly digressed into dissecting Taehyung’s interviews and public appearances, a job of someone who has way too much time on their hands. 

And really, how could Jungkook not read along as this writer mercilessly tore into the love of his life.

Jeon Jungkook and Kim Taehyung, the appropriately crowned power couple, broke millions of hearts the day they made their relationship public. Both coming out of serious relationships, no fan was prepared for this linkup. Many wrote it off as a casual rebound, understandably shocked when the couple stuck together, now married and celebrating their baby’s first birthday together.

Some fans, however, have continued to voice their concerns throughout the course of Jungkook’s relationship with the older alpha. Well-wishers remain worried over Kim Taehyung’s behavior towards the ‘Midnight Cruise’ actor, bordering on controlling and overtly possessive for a few. 

While Jungkook has been nothing but enamored by his husband during interviews and many appearances, some fans believe the 29-year-old has convinced himself that the glaring red flags in his own relationship are green. 

With a shaky, uncomfortable breath, Jungkook turns the screen upside down to face the bed. He’s done reading, he decides. 

Ryung, of course, sees it as an opportunity to disrupt, immediately moving to hit the iPad with his toy. 

Jungkook’s quicker than his baby, of course, stopping the motion halfway. “Don’t do that, darling,” he half-whispers.

Ryung predictably giggles, turning to his father with a toothy smile. It’s so pure and Jungkook is so in love, he can’t help but smile despite his crashing mood. There’s a burn in his chest, in his stomach. 

There’s anger and then there’s fire. 

How could these people, who know know nothing about his relationship with Taehyung and his personal life, spew such utter nonsense. Even as he moves to steady Ryung, there’s an itch that keeps troubling him. And as much as he wants to push it away, he wants to know how some random person on the internet wants to tell him he deserves better. 

Ryung, maybe a little annoyed at not being able to hit the iPad, moves to grab at his papa. 

“I’m sorry, Ryung-ie. Do you want to hit something, baby love?” Jungkook asks, all serious. He coos at the kid, knowing well enough that the baby won’t understand a word. 

Ryung giggles a little more, blowing spit bubbles as he smiles with his eyes. “Pa’ love!” he attempts to say. Just over a year, Ryung has fallen into the adorable habit of repeating the tail end of every sentence some throws at him. 

Jungkook simply gathers Ryung in his arms again, placing him on his lap. “That’s right baby,” Jungkook says in baby voice. “Papa loves you so so much. And you know who else loves you the most, hm?” 

Ryung blinks once. “Da most?”

Jungkook nods. “Uhuh. Who loves you most baby?”

Momentarily distracted, Ryung simply blinks back up at the question. “Who?” he asks when Jungkook prompts again. 

“Appa, my baby. Papa and appa”. 

It is a mistake, Jungkook quickly learns, because the mention of his appa — who he’s seen only on video calls twice a day or so — has the baby look up with such curiosity, it makes the omega’s heart hurt. “Appa?” Ryung repeats, eyebrows furrowed. “Appa ‘ere?”

Jungkook makes sure to maintain his expression. He can’t have teary eyes. 

The 29-year-old moves to retrieve Ryung’s crayons and drawing book immediately, hoping to distract the kid before he can think of his alpha father. More so than their baby missing Taehyung, Jungkook knows Taehyung will be in a meeting now — which is quickly followed by another meeting, some lunch and a short break before his flight back to Seoul from Singapore. 

Even if Taehyung calls, it won’t be enough. He’ll see his alpha when he comes back home. 

“Baby, don’t you want your crayons, hm?” he prompts, handing the packet over. Ryung accepts them without much thought, confused at his father’s obvious misdirect. 

“Creyo?” his baby repeats. 

“Yes, baby. Crayons and your book. You like that?”

Ryung blinks once, then twice. He picks up one crayon, handing it out to his father. He looks around the room, eyes unfocused. “Appa?” Ryung repeats, making Jungkook’s heart clench. Oh dear god. He wants to color, but with Taehyung. 

Jungkook can relate, because he’d also really like to have his alpha around right now. They could cuddle, and Jungkook would put this disturbing article behind him. 

But his alpha’s currently out of reach, and a moment’s overthinking and spiral is enough for Jungkook to crash. 

A distressed Ryung calling for his father is not what Jungkook needs right now. 

Thankfully, he knows how to distract his baby boy. If the crayon box by itself cannot convince his son, Jungkook provides him with the colors itself. They’re non-hazardous, of course. Ryung was a particularly mouthy baby, always biting and chewing on anything he’d find. Getting him normal crayons was out of question. 

“Baby love, why don’t you tell me what these colors are, yes?” Jungkook offers up a green crayon to the toddler. 

Ryung accepts it with a smile, suddenly distracted. “Greeen!” the baby screeches, almost. And before Jungkook can ask him about another one, the baby is clumsily opening his book, coloring away happily as his appa is momentarily forgotten. 

Jungkook lets him, grabbing Ryung by the stomach and gathering him flush against his body as the baby whines a bit. It’s not too much of a problem, though, as Ryung knows his papa only wants to pull him closer. 

With Ryung successfully distracted, the omega was quick to open his iPad again. The curiosity still present, Jungkook feels every ounce of dread as he checks the article again. It’s not from a traditional news site, certainly not. But they’ve surely extended the conversation elsewhere, people insulting his alpha and their relationship on Twitter and YouTube and wherever else possible. 

He’s not sure he can stomach that. 

How is he supposed to let it go?

SUDDEN MARRIAGE AND CAREER CONCERNS

Even more so than their relationship, Jungkook and Taehyung sent shock waves through the world when they announced their marriage and subsequent pregnancy. In the middle of shooting for two movies and the peak of his career, fans were quick to question the omega’s move. Most users online were convinced that the pregnancy was unplanned, the alpha probably suggesting marriage to save face.

Previously dating Kim Sooyoung (Beta) and Song Minjoon (Alpha) for years each, fans were also quick to judge the alpha — who dated others only to settle down with an omega. To makes matter worse, Jeon Jungkook — even friendly with some of his exes — is a decade younger than the man. The alpha hasn’t dated omegas publicly, often stating that he needs a partner who’s ready to match him emotionally while understanding the demands of his career. If so, why would the actor-producer marry someone who’s much younger?

No doubt, Jungkook’s career is in full swing, the omega delivering stunning performances while collaborating with brands like Balenciaga, Calvin Klein and even XBox. Kim Taehyung — on the contrary — continues to focus on his work while laying low. Fans’ concern also revolves around Jungkook’s flourishing career, which was on a small break after the recent success of ‘My Summer of Romance’ and his maiden appearance at the Met Gala. 

Getting into the details of their relationship, one can only list reasons why Jeon Jungkook — insanely talented and equally stunning — deserves better. 

Jungkook heaves as he finishes reading a part, words swirling around in his stomach like acid. 

The rational part of him struggles to emerge, everything around him just noise as he reads on. “’Pa?” Ryung mumbles in his hold, doing his best to color blobs and spots on the paper. Jungkook, a little distracted, responds with a small ‘hm’. 

Ryung’s scent grows distressed at his father’s non-response, the baby grabbing at the omega impatiently. Jungkook blinks, still distracted as he looks at Ryung. “I’m sorry, baby. What is it?” he says as he shifts them a bit, placing Ryung on his lap as he picks up the book. “Do you want papa to color with you?” 

But Ryung doesn’t seem too interested in what Jungkook has to say, immediately toppling off his dad’s lap. Apparently attention is the only thing he needed. Reaching for a couple of crayons, Ryung hands a few over to Jungkook. “What do you need Ryungie?” 

The baby simply grabs another pink crayon, smiling as he moves it in the air. “Pink!” he half-screams, the ‘k’ almost silent. 

Despite himself and his ruined mood, Jungkook smiles. “Yes, baby. That’s pink. Good job my star”. 

Ryung, satisfied with Jungkook’s response, returns to coloring again soon after. It does little to take Jungkook’s mind off the article, making his attention snap back the moment Ryung stops needing him. He knows he should have stopped reading by now. The article should have been reported and stashed away. 

But Jungkook’s never been a master at exercising self control. 

Ironically, it’s one of the reasons why he and Taehyung got together in the first place. 

INSENSITIVE COMMENTS AND POSSESSIVE BEHAVIOR

The real problem fans seem to have identified, though, is the way Jungkook’s alpha conducts himself. 

Despite the ever-changing world and social media rage, Kim Taehyung has remained away from all apps, still managing his own schedule and commitments. The stark contrast, of course, is his husband — a bonafide global star with over 80 million followers across all platforms. Certainly, the spotlight falls upon their limited public interactions via Jungkook’s social media and/or their few events together.

These interactions — however limited — have convinced fans of Kim Taehyung’s insensitive nature. This includes possessive comments about Jungkook NOT attending Calvin Klein’s new store launch in Japan, and a few more insensitive jibes about Jungkook’s health during their pregnancy. During their press conference a few months ago, Taehyung had seemingly ‘joked’ about Jungkook not being allowed to eat fried items during his pregnancy. 

Jungkook’s fans were quick to connect the evident dots, wondering if it was a crass jab at the omega’s weight gain during the pregnancy. Other fans highlighted a few more incidents, including several clips together. This even consisted of airport walks and dates when they were papped, Taehyung being quick to pull Jungkook away while the other wished to stand and pose for the cameras. 

Was it simple protectiveness or bordering on controlling?

PAST RELATIONSHIPS AND HERO WORSHIP?

You’d be living under a rock if you missed Jungkook’s countless interviews speaking about Kim Taehyung as his celebrity crush. With common friends and co-stars surrounding them, it was only a matter of time before the two met. And while a relationship couldn’t be overlooked, no one was ready for them to make it official and build a life together. 

Naturally, Jungkook’s clear case of hero worship bugged a few fans. One user, worried about her favorite omega actor, took to Twitter to speak about the same: 

Their past relationships also call for some attention. While we’ve already addressed Taehyung’s previous relationships, Jungkook’s past is no less intriguing. Embroiled in a few rumors, Jungkook’s one major relationship with another actor (Jung Derek) was eight years ago. The US-native was also older to Jungkook by six years, probably establishing that the omega too, has a type. 

The question, unfortunately, lies in the combination of the two: Is Jungkook turning a blind eye to Taehyung’s behavior owing to their  history and age difference? 

As the omega continues to create a mark on the global audience, concerns about his marriage continue to increase. Some fans are already hoping for a divorce, mostly hoping for Jungkook to come to his senses and get a man truly worthy of his brilliant self.

 

Jungkook and his scent is a mess by the time he’s done reading. 

So distressed, that Ryung is quick to catch on. “’apa?” the baby calls, on his feet as he reaches for his father’s face. 

The omega breaks at the concern in his son’s voice, gathering him close as he buries the toddler for a hug, taking in his scent as much as he can. Too young to be classified into a particular secondary gender, Ryung’s scent is subtle and under the tones. Probably only distinguishable to his parents. 

“’Pa cry?” the baby asks again. 

Jungkook, tightening his hold, only nods. 

But he also cannot keep wallowing in his thoughts with Ryung around him. This was supposed to be their day.

“I’m sorry baby,” Jungkook whispers, placing a small kiss on the baby’s forehead. “Do you want to color some more together, hm?”

Ryung giggles at the kiss, shaking away and out of the hold as he bounces around the bed. It’s just giggles now, the toddler not caring of what Jungkook asked him seconds ago. Jungkook simply stares, whipping out his phone to snap a quick video for Taehyung later on. 

And oh god. 

Taehyung. 

His Taehyung, who these people have taken out of context and turned into a monster. A backward, regressive alpha who likes to keeps his omega in check. 

To say Jungkook’s day has taken a 360 degree turn is an understatement. 

He’s somewhat glad Ryung has already eaten his lunch. Jungkook isn’t to sure how he’s going to handle things now. 

Okay, well. Maybe he’s overreacting? Maybe it’s just one article and people have always made noise about their relationship. People were mad when he broke up with Derek, they were mad when he married Taehyung, and they were certainly furious when the pregnancy was announced. 

Absentmindedly, Jungkook reaches for Ryung, brushing away a few hair strands on his head while the younger wiggles away and rolls on the bed. Jungkook doesn’t let him wander off too far, of course. He wants to ask him to calm down, but maybe he needs to wear the toddler down a little. 

Much to Jungkook’s amusement, Ryung plops down on the bed, pretending to pull his blanket over his head as he giggles and closes his eyes. The omega smiles, moving closer to align himself alongside the baby who’s currently pretending to be fast asleep. “Aah, is my darling sleepy already, hm?”

There’s another wiggle from under the blanket. “Papa! No seep!” 

Jungkook simply engulfs Ryung again, making sure to untangle the blanket and free his head in the process. “How can we have that, hm? I thought my baby needed naps?”

Not exactly understanding what his dad said, Ryung pouts and blows some spit at Jungkook, kicking his legs in the air as he yells random things from ‘cake’ to ‘truck’. 

Letting go for the first time since morning, Jungkook simply tries to calm Ryung down a bit with his scent — which is currently a bundle of anxiety and nausea. He needs to check the article and internet again. But his baby needs to be calmed first. 

There’s a visible effect on the toddler, who Jungkook easily distracts by switching on the barely-used television in their master bedroom. Some ‘Miffy and Friends’ it is, then. Ryung cuddles against Jungkook easily, the omega’s soft, comforting scent all he needs with the cartoon bunny. 

Jungkook watches along for some time, answering any random words Ryung throws his way. It’s mostly ‘miffy’ and ‘pink’ and some more colors, his son more interested on how the simple colors move across the screen.

Two minutes in, and Jungkook plays a soft lullaby-like tune in the background, reducing the television set’s volume by a little. It works wonders, the baby watching with droopy eyes and a soft, adorable yawn. Jungkook kisses him on the crown of his head, adjusting their blanket to tuck Ryung in more than necessary. 

Always easy to lure into a rest, Ryung is asleep within minutes. 

Jungkook quickly shuts the TV off, lying down besides Ryung as he shuffles through his bedside drawer for the remote to their curtains. He can only hope he can manage to fall asleep beside Ryung. 

Unfortunately for him, his thoughts are a little too intense to let his rest. 

Against his better judgment, Jungkook is up and on his phone again, riffling through the same article. This time, he wastes no time to click on a tweet, tumbling down a rabbit hole even before he can remind himself not to. 

And maybe, if the article was ‘bad’, Twitter (now X), is downright unbearable. 

Just like earlier, Jungkook’s gut just sinks. 

The omega scrolls through the app as his fingers shake with anticipation, reading and taking in every single word as it washes over him. He’s not one to obsess over losers and antis, no. But he cannot, for the love of God, have anyone question Taehyung’s love for him and Ryung. He cannot handle these people calling Taehyung vile, offensive names. 

Intent on painting a cruel picture about their marriage these people have no access to. 

How is he supposed to stay calm when this so-called journalist online is insulting his love and even — in their own twisted way — doubting their pregnancy and marriage?

He feels dread like he hasn’t in some time, something worse than seeing trolls insult him. It’s not his fault, no. But he can’t have people questioning his family, his life. He loves this. 

But is getting out there and defending Taehyung while they continue to judge him really worth it?

Stopping himself from scrolling further, Jungkook sets his phone aside as Ryung stirs a little. 

There’s an uneasy feeling in his stomach, something he’s striving to push aside. He’s not sure if he’s uneasy because of the tweets he’s seen, or because something worse is on it’s way. Somehow, he thinks its the latter. 

His mind, currently filled to the brim with turmoil, is a stark contrast to the room and his sleeping baby. Ryung looks extremely peaceful as he naps, eyebrows slightly furrowed like his appa. 

His appa, who Jungkook really hopes was here right now. 

The room is extra comfortable, curtains drawn and Taehyung’s scent still on the hoodie Jungkook has refused to wash. It’s faint now, but he’ll take it. Mainly for Ryung to deal with, Taehyung’s clothes had been scented and stashed away before the alpha left. It’s one of the only reasons why their baby boy has thrown limited tantrums over his missing parent. 

Jungkook feels the tug at his husband being gone, but he’s an adult. 

Now, on the last day, they’re merely one mention of Taehyung away from a full-fledged tantrum. 

Except — especially after he’s read the horrid article — Jungkook’s not sure if it’ll be him or Ryung to throw one. 

It’s his phone’s distinct vibration that finally wakes him up. 

And as he’s also accustomed to doing, his first thought is to check Ryung — who is miraculously still sleeping next to him. 

Which only really means one thing: he’s been asleep for minutes at most. Though somewhat fond of his naps, Ryung always wakes up after around 30 minutes in the afternoon. He’s only really started sleeping at night, which is nice for both him and Taehyung. In the mornings, on any other day, it’s their nanny they can thank. 

Jungkook reaches for his phone next, adjusting to the light as ‘Yoongi-hyung’ flashes on the screen. 

Why was Yoongi hyung calling him?

The uncomfortable feeling he’d felt while dozing off comes back to him tenfold, his gut telling him things are about to get worse than they actually seem to be. Or maybe they were already worse, he can’t tell. 

“Hyung?” Jungkook asks the moment he picks up, not wasting any time with random greetings. He knows Yoongi’s slightly busy with Taehyung’s work today, so there should be no reason he should be calling Jungkook. “What-” a yawn cuts him off, the younger doing the best to stifle it. “What’s wrong? I…Is everything okay?”

There’s silence on the other side, a second or two passing before Yoongi sighs. 

“Kook-ah, I uhm,” his hyung cuts off, probably unsure as to how to proceed. “Did you uh — have you checked Twitter or Instagram or anything? Since morning?” There’s no greeting from Yoongi’s end as well. Partly because they spoke in the morning already, and partly because Yoongi sounds tense as fuck on the other end of the line.

What the fuck is this about?

“What?” Jungkook parrots back. “Hyung— what’s…what’s wrong?”

Another sigh on the other end, this one a little pained. “Nothing, Gguk. Really.” a lie. “Just…I need you to not check anything, yes? Just stay off for some time”. 

“Hyung, that’s not…” the omega switches his voice up now, alert and no longer sleepy. Somewhat scared, even. “I can’t do that if you don’t tell me what’s wrong. Is…is everything okay with Taehyung hyung?”

“Taehyung’s fine, Jungkook,” Yoongi’s quick to reassure him. “He’s still in that meeting. He called you in the morning, yes?”

“What? Yes, of course he called. He’ll call again in some time, I think—” Jungkook stops midway, letting out a frustrating groan. “Hyung, God - don’t try to distract me! Why won’t you tell me what’s wrong?”

A longer pause this time. “Jungkook-ah. Just…I’ll send you a link or two, okay? Don’t check anything else. I beg you, please. We’re handling it. I promise”. 

It does nothing to soothe Jungkook’s anxiety, which has skyrocketed enough to disturb baby Ryung’s sleep. The baby squirms as his father grows agitated, unable to escape the unpleasant feeling that fills the room.

“Yoongi hyung, that’s not fair. How-how am I supposed to stay calm? What the,” he checks Ryung again, just in case. “What the fuck?”

“Jungkook—”

“Don’t Jungkook me! You want me to panic while alone with Ryung at home, hyung?” He takes a deep breath, now visibly struggling to keep himself level-headed. “Why won’t you just-”

“Jeez, kid,” Yoongi cuts him off. “Calm down. I’ve sent you the link, okay?. Go check it”.

“While on call?”

“Hmm, yes. I’ll wait. Go check it”. 

Jungkook places the phone on speaker, reducing the volume just the bit before he checks the links Yoongi sent in. 

He’s silly, he decides then and there, because he should have seen this coming. 

Taehyung’s right, maybe. Jungkook does think the world is as nice as he is. 

Staring at him, now on his phone, is the same article and tweets he’d gone through before Ryung fell asleep. 

Except, it’s more (read: much worse) than he remembers. The articles itself has more comments, with the tweets attached to it blowing up like no one’s business. He knows why Yoongi called, now. 

This isn’t a basic tweet going viral, this is bigger. This is people assassinating Taehyung’s character to fit their own needs, their own narratives. The words, disturbing and jarring to the eye, make his heart speed up as he finds it difficult, heavier to breathe. The comfort of his room and his alpha’s lingering scent feels bleak, hurting him. 

He’s not sure if he’s even processing the words anymore. 

What a pathetic excuse of an alpha.

God, Jungkook always deserved better wtf is he doing with this dickhead.

Seriously did anyone even support KTH he’s always been such a regressive loser? Never even dated omegas till he wanted to settle down. 

Trolls and hate? That he can deal with. 

But this? This goes beyond the usual threshold. This attacks his marriage. His love. The entire foundation of his happiness. 

Some people — probably jobless and without aim — target his baby, their angel. Their everything. Jungkook’s not sure he’s strong enough to deal with that. 

“— kook? Jungkook?” Yoongi’s voice breaks through, understandably laced with concern. “Hey, kid. You still there?”

“Hyu-hyung,” Jungkook’s voice cracks, throat constricting as he fights back tears so he can speak. “I-I don’t-”

“Shit,” Yoongi curses, easily able to identify the younger omega's building panic. “Jungkook, are you-you’re doing okay? I need you to calm down, Kook-ah. Please”. 

Jungkook nods, working hard to try and control his emotions. “Ye-yea, hyung. I’m fine. I just-I don’t know. It’…It’s a lot. I don’t know. It’s more, it’s…” He trails off, the words lost on him. 

“I know,” Yoongi offers, voice soft. “They’re crossing a line”.

Jungkook attempts to console himself, his breath uneasy. “I just…I don’t know, hyung. I know how trolls work. I know how this works. I…we have haters. But this is…this just cruel? I don’t know,” anger seeps into his voice, vindictive. “I don’t know what to do”. 

Yoongi doesn’t reply for some time. 

Previously only Taehyung’s manager, Yoongi (along with the rest of their teams), has taken to manage both their accounts after marriage. They tried keeping it separate for some time, but it no longer made sense — especially with Ryung in tow. 

Before Yoongi can form his reply, Jungkook cuts in again: “Does…does hyung know?”

“No, not yet. I tried calling him, but he’s already in the meeting. I’m not sure when he’ll be done”. 

He wants to ask Yoongi to /not/ mention anything to Taehyung, but he knows the older omega won’t listen to him. 

“Jungkook,” Yoongi speaks again, this time more cautious. “I know you might want to wait for Taehyung, but do you want to release a statement? Or anything similar?”

Damage control. 

“No”. Jungkook doesn’t think he’ll budge. “It’ll look like we’re covering up. Defending him”. 

Yoongi heaves out another deep sigh. Jungkook’s ready with an argument if there’s one. “Jungkook-ah-”

“No, hyung. That’s-it’s not fair. Don’t try to convince me. They’ll only target him more, I know”.

Yoongi takes another pause, and Jungkook can hear some background noises. Yoongi’s maybe at his house, probably feeding Holly. “It’s going to get worse if there’s no damage control, Jungkook-ah”. 

The younger groans. “I don’t understand how it even started in the first place, hyung. It’s bullshit”. 

“You don’t know how it started?”

“Nope. I just saw the articles and the tweets”. 

Before Yoongi speaks, there’s another ping on his phone. It’s a twitter link. “I’m sorry, Gguk, I didn’t want you to see this. It’s just...it’s bad”. 

Jungkook expects to see another random rant, maybe. Or a simple article like the one he’d seen. Something recent. 

Except, it’s a small clip. 

It’s so old, Jungkook doesn’t even fucking remember it. 

“Hyung-” Jungkook manages to say. “This is-”

Jungkook’s comment caused this?

“I know,” is all Yoongi says. 

“I- I didn’t-” he stumbles over his words, mind foggy and heart thrumming with nervous energy. He’s going to start crying and wake Ryung. His baby’s not going to understand why his papa is upset. He can’t do this. “Hyung,” the actor tries again. “This is…they don’t even have the correct context”. 

“I know, Jungkook-ah,” Yoongi agrees, apologetic. “But it was enough. I’m sorry”. 

Jungkook barely remembers the live, a simple promotional event for a brand he was working with. He had to be there for a few minutes, at least. A simple event, nothing fancy. That specific question about his favorite perfume, he doesn’t even recollect. He’d moved on to the next question without much thought, somewhat straying away from anything about his relationship. 

They’d just started dating then, and not all intrusive questions were welcome. 

He might not remember the questions or the moment, yes. But he does remember his time with Taehyung.

He’d stumbled home from an after party one day, Taehyung waiting for him while nose deep in a book he was reading. It was sometime halfway into making out that Taehyung had broken apart, struggling and heaving for air. Turns out, the older actor was particularly sensitive to certain floral scents, making it difficult for him to breathe — with the addition of the worst migraine. 

Taehyung had shied away when Jungkook had pried, worried for his partner. 

Apparently he didn’t want to inconvenience Jungkook any further than he thought he had. 

For Jungkook, it had been the end of the discussion, not when Taehyung was clearly struggling. 

And while this wasn’t extremely early on in their relationship, it was certainly not at a point where they were discussing marriage and babies. 

If these fake ass fans had gotten anything right, it was about Ryung being an unexpected surprise. Their marriage, also hastier than a few of their friends and family would have liked, a result of said sudden pregnancy. It was something they wanted, just maybe not in that particular order, and certainly not while they were in the middle of filming two different projects. 

Taehyung had also just begun focusing on his production house, which Jungkook plans to work with sometime in the future just the same. 

“What do I-” Jungkook heaves, one breath at a time. “What do I now, hyung?”

“I don’t know, Jungkookie. I’m currently worried about telling Taehyung first. Especially before his flight”. 

It’s funny, Jungkook thinks. Because they both know Taehyung’s not going to care when he finds out. Maybe he will be mildly bothered, but the alpha has never cared about what they write about him. From the alpha’s eyes, he’s been the asshole-y, rude alpha for years. 

Jungkook huffs. “You know he won’t care about they’re saying about him, hyung”. 

“He’ll care if you’re affected, Kook”.

Jungkook doesn’t have an answer to that. 

“If I ask you not to tell him, will you listen to me?”

Yoongi laughs, somewhat amused. “Never”. 

Jungkook smiles despite himself, feeling a little better with his hyung listening to him. He’d have chatted for some more time, maybe really discussing what they should do, but Ryung wiggles considerably against him, hands flying out a little as he wakes up. 

Well, that’s it for his conversation, Jungkook supposes. 

“Hyung, I’ll have to go now. Ryung’s waking up, I’ll have to get him some food, too. I’ll call you later, yes?”

“Okay, Jungkookie. I’m kinda free too, I think”. 

“Will you call hyung now?”

“Yes, in about half an hour when his meeting ends. Not sure, though. It seems to have started later than expected”. 

Jungkook simply hums in response, considering. “Okay, hyung. Let me know, I guess”. 

He can practically feel Yoongi’s suspicious gaze on him. “Don’t do anything stupid, Jungkook. I mean it. Nothing on Instagram. Promise me”. 

“I wasn’t planning on it, hyung”. 

“That hum was suspicious to me”. 

Jungkook lets out a small snort. His hyungs are all equally predictable. “It’s nothing, hyung. Really. I promise. I was just…unsure. Hyung should call after his current meeting ends. You know how he can get”. 

Yoongi does get.

“Jungkookie, it’ll be fine, I know. Just…just try not to over think on this one, yes?”

The younger has to hold off a scoff. “I don’t think I can manage that this time, hyung”. 

There’s some more silence on Yoongi’s end, and he can even faintly hear Holly in the background. “I know you can’t control it, Kook. I know. Just…keep talking to me, yes? Jimin will be there as well”. 

Jungkook knows they’ll be there. 

He also knows he’ll over think and won’t contact any of them even if they ask him to. 

What Jungkook needs is Taehyung back home, and until that happens, he’s going to be a bundle of nerves trying to hold on desperately to his baby and his giggles. They can both miss Taehyung together, thank you very much. 

“I’ll try, hyung,” Jungkook adds just in case. He doesn’t want them to worry themselves and show up at their doorstep either. Jungkook feels like he’ll combust into flames if he’s around more people now. 

If he’s alone, at least he can stew in self-pity and think about the wretched article again and again. The anger Jungkook feels is so acute, so fucking tangible, that he’s already worried about troubling Ryung throughout the day. But he can certainly try and control it for his baby boy. 

The part that comes later, unfortunately, is what worries him. Because just as he can’t face his own thoughts and his own demons, Jungkook isn’t sure how he’s going to face Taehyung. 

And that, as much as he tries to convince himself, is never going to be worth his inner turmoil. 

As predicted, the day does not progress well. 

For starters, Ryung is particularly difficult when he wakes up. Maybe it’s his fathers scent, the lack of his appa or his disturbed sleep, Jungkook can’t really tell. All he knows is that Ryung’s annoyed enough to refuse any food or distraction, making it cumbersome for Jungkook to deal with him alone. 

They’re currently in the kitchen, Ryung angrily slamming his spork on the the surface of his baby chair. 

The chair’s the only good thing in his life, Jungkook decides. They’d opted for a really fancy model — one they probably didn’t need — which came with detachable parts and trays so they can use it for more than just eating. Not that Jungkook is using it for more than just feeding Ryung. 

“Baby, please” Jungkook tries again, tone so desperate, they’d think he’d have no self respect. He probably doesn’t when Ryung is involved. “One more bite? For papa?”

Ryung shakes his head furiously, just as stubborn. “No!” It’s a scream, almost. “No food, ‘apa”. 

Jungkook sighs. There’s a small bowl of oatmeal he’d prepared, which he’s not surprised Ryung doesn’t want. He ate a few bites, simply changing his mind halfway. The omega needs his baby to eat some more, hopeful that he can feed him something else later on, probably right before Taehyung arrives home. 

Taehyung, who he has successfully avoided for the past one hour along with a few other friends of theirs. 

Taehyung had called a few times, Jungkook never brave enough to pick up and speak with his husband. If he lets this escalate, the first thing he and Taehyung are doing when he gets back is fight. So…not ideal. Yoongi, Seokjin, Taehyung’s dad and Jimin called a few times too, Jungkook steadily ignoring everyone.

If he wont’ talk to Taehyung, he won’t talk with anyone else. 

Finally giving up on the oatmeal, Jungkook just places the bowl aside. He picks up Ryung with ease, the baby more than happy to jump into the arms of his father. Ryung smiles as he snuggles in, letting Jungkook lead him to their couch. “You’re going to be difficult today, baby love?”

Ryung giggles. “Diffcu’t!”

Jungkook smiles wider. “That’s right, my smart darling”. 

They settle down on the couch, Jungkook not trying to spook the baby with a small bowl of mashed banana and some peanut butter puree he brings along with him. Ryung does like it better, so Jungkook’s really confident about relaxing the baby before feeding him some fruit. 

He puts on some Miffy again, this time another episode. Jungkook’s not shy to admit he enjoys it more than he does other shows. Taehyung’s more of a Paw Petrol/Baby Bus kinda guy. 

What he can’t avoid once he switches on the TV, however, are Taehyung’s messages. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:00 PM | My alpha ❤
My love, where are you?
I called twice.
Are you sleeping, darling?

There’s a pause after that, which Jungkook assumes is the time he spent speaking with Yoongi. Because after that, there’s a sharp increase in messages and at least six more missed called from his husband. Yikes. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:05 PM | My alpha ❤
Baby, I spoke with Yoongi hyung.
Why won’t you answer my calls, love?
Will you please at least let me talk to Ryungie?
Jungkookie?
Please talk to me.

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:07 PM | My alpha ❤
Darling, please call back? I’m worried out of my goddamn mind.
Sweetheart, please.
Are you mad at me as well?

No, no he wasn’t mad at Taehyung at all. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:09 PM | My alpha ❤
Jungkook.

Yikes. Okay. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:12 PM | My alpha ❤
I need to know if you’re doing alright, at least. Why won’t you speak with Yoongi either?
Please don’t make me send someone over to check on you.

He won’t, Jungkook knows. It’ll only piss the omega off further, and Taehyung has a PhD in Jungkook’s ever-changing moods. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:13 PM | My alpha ❤
God, you’re driving me crazy, love.

Two more missed calls.

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:14 PM | My alpha ❤
Omega

God. He’s in trouble, maybe. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:14 PM | My alpha ❤
Pick up my calls, fuck.

There’s a small pause. 

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:20 PM | My alpha ❤
Fine.
Don't.
We’ll talk when I get home.

Jungkook gulps at the texts. Yikes. Taehyung sounded a little mad. Maybe even exhausted.

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:05 PM | Yoongi hyung 😾
Kook-ah.
What the fuck are you doing?
Everyone’s stressed out.
Please don’t make me come up there. Are you okay?
At least fucking respond once. Your alpha’s going mad

A small pause. Maybe they called again this time, who knows.

Tue, 23 Jan at 4:22 PM | Yoongi hyung 😾
Alright, take your time, I guess. Taehyung’s taking an early flight.
He’s kinda pissed, Kook. I don’t know.
Everyone’s stressed out.
Best of luck, I guess.
And please fucking call us.

Whatever small relief he’d felt as he settled with Ryung on the couch evaporates. Thankfully, his overthinking is momentarily taken over by his baby’s sporadic eating habits.

He feels some worry, not really hoping to welcome Taehyung home with a sour mood. But the ship has sailed. He’s messed up, and Taehyung’s going to be a little more than pissed as he comes back home. 

Great. 

But what is he supposed to do? All he can think about are those tweets, swirling away as he tries to calm himself down. And while he doesn’t wish to blame himself, there’s an acute sense of responsibility and guilt that has washed over. If he’d been careful, they wouldn’t have attacked his alpha. 

(They’d have found a way anyway).

It’s a ruthless pattern, his fussy, persnickety nature costing him some sane braincells. 

Anyone else would have craved their alpha and their loved ones. 

And he does. It’s not like he doesn’t. 

But there’s some resistance on his end, struggling to put a blame on anyone other than faceless trolls. 

While Jungkook is currently feeling much less panicky than he felt early on in the day, he knows it’s a fake calm — a bubble he’s created while he stays holed up with Ryung. He’s numb, if anything. Barely feeling a thing. It’s a coping mechanism, Jungkook knows. 

It can be explosive at times, making it difficult for people around him to interact with him. Jungkook’s not proud of his behavior, but it’s how he communicates — it’s how he’s survived, grown up. With his parents divorcing and his sister running away to another country to avoid their problems, Jungkook could only do what he thought would protect him. 

Being in this industry also calls for one to be immensely immune to trolls, all of which is said easier than done. Jungkook remembers crying during his initial years, unable to understand how people behind a screen were so cruel, so judgmental. All he wanted was some love, some respect. 

He’d learned some things the hard way. 

Some things, though hurtful, one has to let go of. 

He’s overlooked every word that’s thrown at him, growing accustomed to their hate. If sending him hate is someone’s way of feeling better, then so be it. 

This entire ‘Kim Taehyung is a glaring red flag’ threw him off center, the omega holding back the urge to reach out and let everyone know Taehyung was fucking perfect and they needn’t worry about his marriage. 

He’s sure Yoongi and the rest of their friends and family would have an aneurysm if he did try that.

And now, as he helplessly tries to feed Ryung some mashed fruit puree, Jungkook wonders if he’s dug his own grave by avoiding his alpha. 

Thankfully for him, the feeding process goes much easier when Ryung’s a bit distracted. They haven’t made a habit of feeding him in front of the television, but desperate times call for desperate measures. 

“Papa!” Ryung yells when Jungkook is momentarily distracted, “Papa, ‘anana”. 

Jungkook smiles, using a spork to feed the baby. “Do you like banana, baby?”

Ryung taps on the small eating stool in front of him, smiling. “Banana baby!”

Jungkook giggles with the one-year-old, feeding him another bite as they settle in for some time.

They finish off the bowl easily this time, Jungkook wondering if he should make some food for himself. He could cook while Ryung played besides him. Maybe he’s too tired, though, so he could just order in some food. Hopefully fried and hopefully unhealthy. 

To hell with his diet today, because he certainly thinks he deserves a reward for getting Ryung to eat in time and properly. Maybe he can get him to eat some meat later on. But that’s still a few hours away. 

Ultimately giving in, Jungkook picks his phone up to order. Some fried chicken, some fries and some dumplings should do it, he thinks. He has plenty snacks at home, so he can snack a little before the food gets here anyway. And while Jungkook does want to drink, he knows enough to know that’s a mistake. 

They shift to the open area between the kitchen area and the sofa, sitting with Ryung’s tub of toys and everything Jungkook could drag in one quick trip since his baby is prone to wandering off. Despite everything being baby-proofed, he’s still paranoid. 

Ryung quickly upturns the bucket filled with blocks, stacking them up without waiting for Jungkook. The baby seems to love blocks the most for now, the activity keeping him occupied for the longest of time without much adult supervision. Jungkook’s favorite thing is to build a tower taller than his baby. 

It gives him ample time to order, making sure to add some bubble tea to the list as well. 

Checking his phone in general, however, was a grave mistake he should have prevented. 

Because the moment his focus shifts, he ends up opening Twitter.

Back to the article, and the ruin of a perfect day. 

Slowly, his stomach churning with anxiety, Jungkook opens the tweet linked to it. The original thread, or so he supposes. When he looks closer now, he realizes the original tweet mentioning his live was attached at the end. Jungkook — already so distressed — had completely missed it. 

The first instance noted dates back to last year, when Jungkook had to attend a Calvin Klein event overseas. 

‘This man just unable to deal with his husband’s success,’ the tweet read, indicating that Taehyung dismisses Jungkook’s travels plans. Hinting at what seemed to be a common theme throughout all articles and posts — Jungkook’s alpha was a controlling dickhead. 

The real story? Jungkook — awfully stressed about his schedule and commitments — had found himself so anxious, he fainted at a brand party. He couldn’t handle the unfiltered scents, his hormones haywire as he hyper focused on every minute details. Cue in an anxiety attack and high blood pressure. Taehyung, who had travelled to Italy for a shoot of his, had flown back after postponing his dates. 

Jungkook had tried to convince their parents and Taehyung, but no one budged. 

And so, as advised by his very trusted doctors, Jungkook wouldn’t be flying anywhere during his pregnancy. 

They chose to not make that struggle public, which has clearly given their haters a golden opportunity to make something out of Taehyung’s very few public appearances. It’s not as if Taehyung’s away from the media, but he’s certainly much less active than one would like an actor/producer to be. 

This leads Jungkook to the next tweet: the infamous fried food comment. 

Also in line with Jungkook’s high blood pressure and increasing nausea, the doctors strictly advised Jungkook against any fried food. Well, minimal oil was fine. But he certainly couldn’t binge on fried chicken and fries like he intends to. Taehyung had gone above and beyond to accommodate his omega’s cravings, truly. 

It was a tense few weeks for all of them, Jungkook bordering on insufferable. 

Cut to an interviewer asking Jungkook about his favorite food, Jungkook easily answering with fried chicken and chilli-oil noodles. Taehyung had cut in then, letting everyone know how Jungkook isn’t currently allowed to have any. It was a slight warning too, maybe, considering he’d found Jungkook trying to sneak in a few junk food items home when the older wasn’t around. 

The more Jungkook spoke about oily, greasy food, the more he craved it. Even though it was a point of immense frustration, it took Jungkook some constant reminding about the baby and actual restrictions placed by their doctor to stay in line. 

They’d moved on to the next question and forgetten about it. 

Clearly, a few of Jungkook’s fans hadn’t forgotten, using it as a clip to attack his husband months later.

The last one, well. Jungkook would rather not think about that night in a negative light. 

‘why tf was Taehyung being so cagey they didn’t even stop and pose for the cameras that day and there was minimal greetings. Jungkook even LOOKED like he wanted to wait but Taehyung was in front of him at ALL times??’

While Jungkook wasn’t pregnant on that day, he’s kinda sure he did get pregnant after that. 

Crazy, crazy night. 

Now, being together for long often syncs heats and ruts, making it easier for couples to navigate. It was a bit difficult for couples like them, making it so that while they synced, they also fell out of sync if they stayed apart for a long time. 

That particular day — sometime before Jungkook found out he was pregnant — was the first time their cycles had synced. 

They were out to dinner, and they’d both realized they needed to get home ASAP. To say that Taehyung was a bit on edge was an understatement, maybe. Shooting overseas, the alpha had been away from home for at least a few months. They’d taken breaks to see each other, but it hadn’t been enough, considering Jungkook was shooting another movie in a completely different part of the world. 

And Jungkook trying to be friendly with the paparazzi as Taehyung struggled to calm himself down? It had more to do with the omega trying to rile his then-fiancé up. They were secretly engaged for about two months by then. Forgive Jungkook and Taehyung for not wanting to announce their heats and ruts to the world all the damn time. 

It pains him, maybe, that others have chosen to dissect their lives to such a point, where speaking up in defense too, feels useless. 

What could he say, even? Go live on Instagram to break down every single tweet, every single allegations? Yell at the world to understand that his alpha was far from the red flag they wanted him to be. If anything, these despicable people are the ones who’re the red flags. 

“Papa?” Ryung calls for him, thankfully, causing Jungkook to pull away from intrusive thoughts. “Play?”

Jungkook nods immediately, moving closer to his son who’s currently holding two blocks entirely to big for his tiny hands. Jungkook coos, using his phone to snap a couple of photos while Ryung stares at him all wide eyed. “Do you want to play blocks, my star?”

Ryung immediately pushes a red block into his hand. “Blocks!”

Jungkook smiles as he accepts, patiently waiting for his son to begin so he can follow. It’s a good pass time, and would probably go on for some time until his food arrived. Jungkook could eat as Ryung played, probably even moving on to some other activity if the baby tires. Maybe Ryung will eat more, maybe he’ll color a little. 

It’s not enough to completely keep his mind off the tweets, but Jungkook sure as hell hopes it’s enough to keep him afloat until Taehyung arrives. 

Jungkook plans out Taehyung’s return in his head.

Best case to worst case scenario. 

They either kiss and talk about it or they argue and sleep in separate rooms. 

Naturally, Jungkook wants to do neither. 

Knowing his husband, the omega's sure he’ll have to have some discussion. Jungkook would just like to cuddle and go to sleep. Sex is out of the question, considering how tired Taehyung would be and how not in the mood Jungkook is right now. 

So he ends up devising a plan. As of now, he’s decided on using baby Ryung as the buffer when Taehyung arrived. 

The one-year-old and his alpha would certainly share a dramatic meeting, Ryung probably refusing to let go of Taehyung for the night. With Taehyung’s attention largely on Ryung, Jungkook can move around and let them have their space, successfully avoiding confrontation. 

He’s missed his alpha, yes, but he’s not ready to give in and talk about it just yet. 

Especially if Taehyung is going to be mad at him. 

Still on the couch lazing with Ryung, Jungkook deludes himself into thinking he’s ready for Taehyung to show up.

What he doesn’t factor in, however, is Ryung dozing off as the night wears on. Taehyung would be home by 10:30 PM, even, but Ryung is usually tired and drowsy by ten itself. Now exhausted after a only-play fun day with his papa, Ryung — to Jungkook’s utter disappointment — nods off by 10:00 PM. 

The only reason Jungkook’s letting it slide, of course, is because his baby looks beyond adorable while he’s asleep. 

So when Taehyung returns, Jungkook is more or less exactly where he’d been the whole evening: on the couch, un-showered, and also dozing off with his son snuggled up against him as takeout containers take over the coffee table.  

If the door didn’t click, Jungkook probably wouldn’t even have realized Taehyung’s home. 

And unfortunately for Jungkook, all fight in him evaporates the moment his eyes land on the alpha. 

He pulls away first, eyes nervous as he sits up straight, Ryung wiggling in his arm, still asleep. “I uh,” he attempts to speak. He can’t meet Taehyung’s eye, but he certainly can sneak in glances. The alpha stands rooted in place, eyes fixed on Ryung and Jungkook as he debates shifting closer. 

Either way, he’ll have to wash up before holding Ryungie. 

His sleeves are rolled back, his shirt unbuttoned and creased. Telltale signs of having successfully avoided the paparazzi. 

Taehyung looks so fucking exhausted. And also — because Jungkook’s only so strong — so bloody good. 

It’s an awkward moment, in some capacity. Jungkook wants to move towards Taehyung just as well — but the scent blockers have him rooted to the spot. He doesn’t know how Taehyung feels, and he’s a little scared to find out. 

Taehyung must’ve been worried sick on his way here, doing everything to make sure he doesn’t go overboard and send someone to check on him. Go against every instinct he has just to make sure his stubborn husband got his space.

And here Jungkook was, unable to look him in the eye or greet him properly. 

Clearing his throat, Jungkook shifts, standing with Ryung in his arms — thankfully still asleep. 

“Welcome home,” he mutters, eyes skittish as they refuse to stay on Taehyung for over a second. 

Taehyung sighs immediately, forcing Jungkook to meet his alpha’s eye. He looks beyond excited, much more so by Jungkook’s behavior. The only reason for Jungkook’s somewhat level scent is for baby sleeping in his arms. The taller man finally looks away, reaching for his one bag placed at the side.

“I, uh…I’m going to wash up first,” Taehyung mutters, Jungkook barely catching his words. 

And before Jungkook can reply or follow, Taehyung makes a beeline down the hallway, disappearing into their room. 

Jungkook’s heart dips, anger bubbling over the concerned, guilty feeling. If Jungkook was being stubborn, shouldn’t Taehyung come and talk to him? If Ryung was sleeping, does he not care about what Jungkook feels at all? 

This is not the reunion he imagined or planned, mind you. 

He tries to maintain reason, acutely aware of his downward spiral. The anger is more or less a side effect, a way of channeling his chaotic feelings he’s tried to combat for days. If Taehyung wants to start on this tone, then so be it.

But he’s desperate also to sort it out, inching to ask Taehyung what he should do. If they should do something. 

Jungkook moves to their room a few minutes later, placing Ryung on the crib beside their bed before settling in himself. 

It’s a game of nerves then, scent haywire and heart thudding all too loudly as he waits for Taehyung to emerge from his bath. 

Maybe a few minutes pass, or maybe half an hour. Jungkook’s not too sure. 

The omega pretends to play around on his phone for a while, completely distracted. He makes sure to stay away from Twitter, quite confident that he’ll go mad if he checks more comments right away. 

Thankfully, he doesn't have to stay with his thoughts for too long. 

He senses Taehyung’s scent before the alpha actually steps into the room, his usually pleasant vibe marred with irritation and exhaustion. Jungkook braces himself, his own scent struggling to regulate itself. One of them has to calm down if they don’t want the baby waking up so soon.

But before Jungkook can do it, Taehyung’s scent switches back on it’s own. 

He’s still exhausted, maybe, but significantly less irritated. There’s a hint of worry there, his comforting sandalwood-like scent more prominent as he walks in. The alpha (predictably) approaches Ryung's crib first, bending to place a soft kiss while staring their son for some time before turning and walking towards Jungkook. 

Heartbeat erratic and mind foggy, the omega shifts away on instinct, still determined to avoid his husband. He sees Taehyung sneak in beside him, taking a seat just a few inches apart. Jungkook continues to ignore him, nose scrunched up as he mindlessly scrolls on Instagram. 

It’s a bit dramatic, maybe, considering Jungkook has no reason to feel angry at Taehyung. 

But he knows what’s coming. He knows his husband well enough to predict his reactions. And forgive him for not being up to discuss his love’s character assassination by faceless assholes on the internet. 

Taehyung, clearly, does not share his sentiments. 

He hears the alpha sigh beside him, the only indication of his stable mood via his scent. But Taehyung — relatively less stubborn — often reaches out first: 

“Darling-” the alpha calls, shifting closer as he tentatively touches Jungkook’s elbow. 

Jungkook shrugs him off, refusing to look up or acknowledge him. And usually, he’d give Jungkook some more time before cutting to the chase. 

Probably because this is a slightly serious matter for both of them and to those around them, Taehyung doesn’t back down. Hand reaching for Jungkook’s phone, the alpha merely covers the screen with his hand, forcing Jungkook to shift his attention. 

Armored with an angry pout, Jungkook turns to confront Taehyung promptly, only to be met with Taehyung’s kind, half-amused eyes. 

The omega visibly deflates, anger dissipating into a pout hopelessly as he falls against Taehyung, who’s all but glad to hug him. 

God. 

They’ve been away for a week and this is what Jungkook’s focused on. 

Taehyung shifts more into the bed, hands circling around Jungkook entirely as the omega simply melts against him, pout still intact. They don’t speak just yet, the alpha’s chin rested against on Jungkook’s head, breath syncing slowly as they take in the other’s scent. It’s a high, Jungkook thinks, feeling a loved person’s scent again after so long. 

And because it was probably exactly what he needed, Jungkook finally feels himself calm down for the first time since he read that article. 

The younger man feels grounded, even, better now that he won’t have to overthink into madness. 

He presses into Taehyung as humanely possible, cheek rubbing against the other’s neck. It’s a freshly showered scent, at that, something Jungkook loves. His alpha just holds him, face pressed into the younger actor’s hair. Jungkook sort of regrets not showering himself while Ryung was napping. 

Taehyung parts from him after a few long minutes, placing a soft kiss on the crown of Jungkook’s head as he does so. He’s smiling, but it’s not all there yet. Part of it weighed down with worry, and part of it by the slight frustration Jungkook left him with. The omega finds his heart fluttering at the smile, the lingering touch tempting him for more. 

“Better now, my love?” Taehyung asks, carefully tucking away a strand on Jungkook’s hair. 

Jungkook pouts at that. “That depends, alpha,” he adds. 

Taehyung scoffs. “Hm?” he parrots back mindlessly, eyes unfocused as he takes in Jungkook after a week of being apart. “Depends on what?”

The omega glares. “On what you have to say about…you know,” he gestures towards his phone, making a circle with his hand in an animated gesture to sum up today’s events. “…today”. 

Taehyung partially deflates, his scent spiking the slightest before resetting.

“Darling,” his voice is careful, measured. “I don’t-”

Jungkook recoils instantly, a frown overtaking his features as his scents sours just the bit. 

Taehyung doesn’t back down, still holding onto his love as he attempts to placate. “Jungkook-”

The younger shakes his head. “No, hyung. You can’t-you can’t tell me it means nothing. It’s not…it’s not nothing”. 

“Baby, at least listen to-”

Jungkook, frowning properly now, shrugs off Taehyung’s arm entirely. “I don’t want to. I know what you’re going to say, and I don’t agree. So let’s just…not talk. I don’t want to argue”. 

Taehyung, disappointment clear, sighs. “And what am I going to say?”

Jungkook looks away. It’s an ugly, uncomfortable feeling. He hasn’t met his husband in so long, they shouldn’t even be discussing this. But because he too, is human, it’s difficult to let go when people are breaking down Taehyung’s character.

He also knows Taehyung. 

“That you don’t care what they say about you”. Jungkook throws him a side eye, rolling his eyes in a very ‘what else did you expect’ way. 

Taehyung hums in agreement, not guilty in the slightest. “And I won’t, my love, you know that. I can’t…it’s-it's just noise”. 

Jungkook doesn’t reply, his breath and scent out of control. He’s not expecting Taehyung to get affected. He knows his husband enough, thank you very much. But the least Taehyung could do was entertain his frustration. 

“Jungkookie-” Taehyung tries again, this time reaching for his omega’s arm. When Jungkook resists, Taehyung lets go immediately, not wanting to agitate the omega further. “My love, won’t you at least look at me?”

Said omega complies, albeit reluctantly. Only because he wants to cuddle his husband and fall asleep later. 

No other reason whatsoever. 

“Not if you want to argue with me about it”. 

Taehyung smiles a little. “I don’t want to argue, darling. I promise”. 

Jungkook nods, considering. “But you still want to talk about it?” How can they talk without it turning into an argument if Jungkook doesn't agree with anything Taehyung might have to say?

“Jungkook-”

“No, hyung. It’s…I know it’s nothing for you. I don’t care if it’s about me, they’ve said nonsense for years. They’ll continue to speak nonsense. But…” he trails off again. He’s growing frustrated again, every single tweet and sentence haunting him again as he remembers. “I can’t let if go if it’s you. Not like this”. 

Taehyung’s quiet then, eyes focused on Jungkook intently. “We can’t stop what they have to say, love. You know that. It’s never going to change, it doesn’t matter if it’s me, or you. Or even Ryungie”. 

Tears prick at Jungkook’s eyes at the mention of his son, anger settling in as he wonders why would someone be against his baby. So innocent, so unaware. The frustration boils over to such an extent, that the omega struggles to remember the rest. 

The good part. 

The love, the appreciation. 

A life he so dearly cherishes. 

“They were calling you sexist and regressive! They…” he shivers a bit, thinking about the words referring to his alpha as a backward thinking red flag. “Everyone thinks…I don’t know, hyung. That you’re controlling, that you…you only married me because I’m young and an omega” 

He checks Taehyung for a reaction, the alpha no longer relaxed as Jungkook vented.

The older man attempts to speak again, Jungkook holding up a hand to ask him to stop. 

“I didn’t…” Jungkook pauses, taking a large breath as Taehyung ran a soothing hand through his back. “I wasn’t prepared, I think”. When he looks up at his husband again, there’s just more tears in his eyes. “How am I supposed to deal with that?”

“Baby-”

“No, hyung. You are…You are none of those things.” 

Taehyung, looking a little heartbroken, turns Jungkook to face him gently, hand reaching to wipe the tears away from his omega’s eyes. 

“I know, my darling. I’m sorry you had to read that”. The alpha smiled, a bittersweet feeling, really. He doesn’t feel the need to give any voice to his trolls in his head. 

But any tear in Jungkook’s eye feels like a failure of his own. 

“I’m not saying we should make a statement, alpha. But it’s so…I’m not overreacting, am I?” Jungkook asks, still tearful. 

Gentle yet firm, Taehyung shakes his head. “No, my love. You’re not. I’m sorry”. 

Thankfully calmer than before, Jungkook doesn’t feel the frustration crawl back up. He missed his hyung, and being with him in the same room just makes it insanely better. 

But-

“They keep saying shit about Ryung and our marriage too, you know?” Jungkook pouts a bit at that, feeling the remnants of his earlier anger now. 

It has the required effect on Taehyung, the alpha’s scent spiking a sour, unpleasant note before settling again. His grip on Jungkook tightens, acutely aware of what the other actor was trying to do.

“Jungkook,” his tone is sharp, somewhat close to a warning. Careful. “I know what you’re trying to do”. 

The younger blinks. “What?”

“Mentioning Ryung and you so you get a reaction out of me,” he answers, not elaborating further. 

Jungkook doesn't deny him. He knows Taehyung knows. It's not the first time Jungkook's tried this. 

One of their very few argument points over the years. 

Now they get along well, the both of them. Always have.

But Taehyung's calm, no-nonsense exterior more often than not clashes with Jungkook’s over the top, always ready personality. The omega is protective, to put it mildly. Even against media trying to share Ryung’s image without their permission. 

They can fight, but they cannot fight everybody. 

“I’m not exactly trying to get you to react negatively, hyung,” Jungkook admits. He just wants to know Taehyung understand. “It’s just, you don’t know-”. He leans on Taehyung, feeling fatigued even after an entire day at home. This was meant to be his time off. A special day with his baby. 

“I don’t know what, darling?”

Jungkook shrugs, unable to fight the thoughts he wasn't actively trying to tap into. “How difficult it gets, I guess. It’s…lonely, I think. I don’t know, hyung. I can't always understand”. 

“Baby, I’m sor-”

“No, hyung,” Jungkook denies him. It’s not Taehyung’s fault. “You don’t have to apologize. But even Yoongi hyung was so calm, I don’t know, I just felt alone. I think. Didn’t understand how I should deal with it”. 

Taehyung let’s go of the breath he was holding at that, his heart hurting along with Jungkook’s. He never should have said yes to be away for so long. Even if it was a shoot, a week away from his husband was too long. And what use was he, if he couldn’t be there to hold his loves when he needed to?

Even if this happened today, Jungkook wouldn’t be feeling so wound up if Taehyung had been home. 

“I can hear you think, you know?” Jungkook interrupts his thoughts. The omega smiles at him, shifting his weight completely so he’s on the bed completely. Taehyung, though a little confused, pulls his omega closer. The younger — almost straddling him now — immediately raises a hand to flick his alpha in the forehead.

“Yah-what the…what was that for?!” Taehyung’s reaction is equally hilarious and loud. The alpha attempts to back away, staring at Jungkook with a mildly betrayed look on his face. He was expecting a kiss, not a flick to the forehead. 

Jungkook giggles, throwing one glance at Ryung’s crib to check if the baby moved due to the noise. “Silly alpha”. 

Taehyung guffaws, a bit dramatic. “I’m silly?”

Jungkook bobs his head, sincere. “Of course. I could hear you blame yourself. We can’t have that, can we?”

Taehyung does smirk then, heart beating fast as he seizes the opportunity to surprise Jungkook with a kiss. His hands wrap around the omega’s waist, pulling him closer as they embrace, one hand firmly on his neck. Jungkook — letting out a short gasp — follows through willingly. 

It’s soft at first, Taehyung keeping it relatively SFW as his hands roam around Jungkook’s waist, tender and gentle. 

Jungkook, though, reaches for Taehyung’s hands with his own, urging the alpha to touch more, to feel more. 

It’s the only permission Taehyung needs, the slightly taller man pressing forward and into the bed as he slips one hand under Jungkook’s t-shirt. It’s a slow fall, Jungkook’s touch and skin and warmth feeling unbelievable after days of being apart. 

The omega’s eyes fall closed, back arching off the bad as he maximizes contact. 

They barely break away from the kiss, Taehyung’s gentle touch turning heated as he pries into the omega. Jungkook grips Taehyung’s neck in return, kissing back as the alpha explores his mouth, breath heavy and desperate. 

It’s more aggressive than the rest, Taehyung’s fingers burning as they trail on Jungkook’s skin. His grip is just shy of being too tight, longing and yearning translating into wanton as he attempts to pin his husband to the bed. 

It has it’s desired effect on Jungkook, his omega letting out one soft whimper as he gives in, ready for anything more. 

More friction. 

More touch. 

More everything. 

And just when Jungkook thinks Taehyung is going to let go, the alpha only presses in closer, leg slotting in as the younger gasps at the sudden contact. Jungkook’s arms and legs help him hold on to his husband, kiss finally breaking as he falls back. 

Taehyung pulls back instantly, a softer glint in his eyes as he shares the same hooded expression as his omega. 

Swollen lips, eyes unfocused and out of breath, Jungkook quite literally steals Taehyung’s breath away. 

There’s a spike to the alpha’s scent, no longer level and reasonable.

Jungkook feels a shiver pass through him, his alpha’s intense eyes enough to make him look away, suddenly too shy. 

Taehyung, not yet ready to take his eyes away from the omega, doesn’t let him. Grip firm on the omega’s chin, Taehyung turns him his way again. 

There's no room to hide.

Jungkook’s expects another kiss for now, or maybe something more before they eventually tire out and fall asleep. There’s also some irrational thoughts clouding his mind, wondering what they’ll do if Ryung decides to wake up suddenly. 

And Taehyung — probably thinking just like Jungkook — simply stares down at his husband. 

A few moments pass as is, the two of them at a stand still while they catch their breath. It’s an awkward position, maybe, but Jungkook feels at peace. Maybe staying away from Taehyung for so long was truly the worst idea. 

Now, don’t get him wrong. 

He does want sex and his alpha’s knot. 

But falling asleep cuddled against Taehyung and not all alone while his scent continues to fade has a different, more satisfying appeal. 

Taehyung’s hand, now cupping Jungkook’s face, grazes against his cheekbone with the softest of touch. 

Jungkook simply reaches to hold Taehyung’s hand in place, hoping to save some of it’s warmth in place. He feels butterflies in his stomach, giddy with happiness and their close proximity. 

“I missed you, angel,” Taehyung whispers. 

Jungkook smiles, resisting the urge to kiss Taehyung’s hand. “I missed you too, alpha”. 

Taehyung leans in for a kiss then, this one sweeter. 

The omega — recognizing the perfect opportunity — more or less tackles his alpha before their lips meet, letting him fall onto the bed completely. Taehyung lets out a small ‘oof’ and a confused yelp as he goes down. It’s a tangle of limbs for quite some time, Taehyung’s uncoordinated movements only worsening their position. 

“Hyung-no-” Jungkook attempts to control his husband, who truly just makes a beeline for the omega’s waist. If cuddles is what Jungkook wants, it's cuddles he'll get. 

It takes a few seconds, but they ultimately end up how they thought they would: cuddling with Jungkook securely pressed against the older man. 

It’s a preferred position, after all. 

Ryung’s crib is in line of vision, the expensive, star-covered item placed in between the bed and their curtains. 

The silence overtakes them for some time, the night loud enough for the both of them. There’s no real noise around them, save for Taehyung’s quiet breathing: an indication that his husband is already halfway asleep. 

And Jungkook really really tries to keep his thoughts at bay, but here — with Taehyung back and his mind finally content — there’s no escaping the worry and truth that’s been bogging him down. 

“Hyung? Are you too sleepy?”

Taehyung shifts around a little, reaching to tighten his hold around Jungkook. “Not really, love”. When Jungkook doesn’t reply immediately, he adds: “What’s wrong, darling?”

“I’m thinking”. 

Taehyung hums, nudging the younger man to go on. But Jungkook doesn’t give in right away, earning a small, ‘just say it, baby’ from Taehyung. 

“Hyung, do you…do you think Ryung will resent us? Later?”

Taehyung doesn’t answer right away, of course. The alpha takes his time to think about Jungkook’s word, his brain needing to work overtime while sleepy. He wouldn’t dare fall asleep while Jungkook wants to talk. 

“Resent how, baby? As…parents?”

“No, hyungie. Just, when he grows up. When he looks up all the content there is on us. When he realizes that we have a, you know-”

“-A past?” Taehyung cuts in. 

“I don’t know, maybe. He’ll read things about himself too, you know? What if he just…blames that on us? What if he hates us for it?”

“Oh, baby. That’s…” Taehyung feels a lump in his throat, not sure how to break through his own worries to soothe Jungkook’s. “that’s really valid, I think. We can’t control what he looks up. We can’t protect him from everything either”. 

(No, they really can't).

“But I want to”. 

Having no proper answer, Taehyung places a soft kiss on the back of Jungkook’s head, praying that he’s able to comfort the younger. 

“They kept calling him an accident, you know?" Jungkook recounts. "Saying that we only got married because you got me pregnant”. 

The alpha scoffs. At least they got that partly right. 

They really weren’t expecting Ryung. 

Hell, Jungkook was in the middle of shoot when he realized, eventually causing them to move aside a whole bunch of dates. Can’t shoot action while you’re six weeks pregnant (or more). 

And while they didn’t really tie the knot because of Ryung, they certainly were desperate to set it up before Jungkook started showing. 

Jungkook turns in Taehyung’s hold, glaring with a pout as he stares his husband down. 

“What?” Taehyung asks, all too innocent. 

“You’re laughing, hyung!”

It only elicits another laugh from Taehyung, the alpha amused and enamored all at the same time. “I’m not laughing, baby. It’s just…kinda funny, you know? They didn’t get that part wrong. Ryung really was an accident”.

Jungkook’s pout worsens, one idle finger coming up to play with Taehyung’s pajama mindlessly. He traces a pattern on the alpha’s chest, another habit he’s picked up over the years. “I know. Doesn’t mean I can’t feel bad looking at it”. 

“I know, darling. I’m sorry”. 

“Ugh. Don’t say that hyung," Jungkook almost whines. "It’s not your fault. I just…I just missed you, okay?” 

Taehyung smiles, slowly detaching Jungkook’s hand from his shirt to clasp it. He brings it to his lips wordlessly, placing a small kiss as he smiles a sad, guilty smile. “That’s why I’m sorry, baby. Being away for so long was a mistake”. 

Jungkook nods. 

That part, he agrees with. 

“Can we not do it again? It’s-It’s not easy. Ryung was barely happy, hyung. And we just…we just missed you. Maybe when he’s older? But not…not right now”. 

“I agree, my love. We can plan accordingly”. 

“Hmm, whoever’s more free could fly in. We could make it work. Maybe at least until Ryung’s two?”

Nodding in agreement, Taehyung leans to press another kiss on Jungkook’s forehead, longer this time. The omega adjusts to the taller man’s height, scooching a little to the bottom as he fits against the other’s chest. 

“You comfortable like that?” Taehyung asks, well aware of how particular Jungkook can be of his position when they fall asleep. Sometimes he wants to cuddle, and sometimes he wants to simply move away. 

Either way, Taehyung prefers giving Jungkook his space.

“I’m fine, alpha. Just needed to be closer to you”. 

They talk for a little while more, discussing Taehyung’s work and Jungkook’s upcoming shoots. They have a few days left before Jungkook leaves for Italy, finishing up a shoot with Calvin Klein before returning to SK to begin filming a new movie. 

Taehyung’s schedule has some time to go, maybe another month before the production kicks off. 

They’ll be busy, but at least they’ll mostly be in Korea. 

It’s halfway through the conversation, that Jungkook realizes he’s the only one talking. Taehyung — asleep with his mouth slightly open — must have dozed off somewhere between Jungkook’s rant about the new producer wanting to switch dates without prior notice. 

Feeling a pang of guilt for keeping his tired husband awake so late into the night, Jungkook smiles. The omega detaches himself a little, making sure the duvet it completely covering the alpha as he lies back down, snuggling as close as he possibly could. 

So much unrest throughout the day, it’s only felt better once Taehyung came back home. 

He knows the devil in his mind isn’t done yet. 

He knows he’ll be back to stressing out soon, the trolls and anger and frustration washing in once he wakes up and checks his phone in the morning. 

He loves his husband, he loves his family. 

No matter how hard he tries, he’s going to feel a pull when he sees the world trying to pull them down. 

But he’s back with Taehyung, his mind focused as he feels stronger and much more in line with his emotions. Maybe he did go overboard, but it’s what he needed to process as well. 

And he thinks, as he’s cuddled up against his husband with his baby asleep a few feet away — 

— that it’s all he’ll need to get through another day. 

BONUS