taekook au—

because jungkook is unlucky the only room he can afford rent for is one with a tiger hybrid neighbor. call jungkook old fashioned but he prioritizes safety and he thinks bunny hybrids like him -preys- should not come close to predators like the tiger across the hall.

> they are both hybrids in this story, which means they have bunny/tiger ears and a tail and all that. if you don't like that stuff, don't read!

> fluff, denial, jealousy. side yoonmin!

> commission for the taekook side story in my kitten hybrid au: https://twitter.com/minjiiminie/status/1224348035003703297

Jungkook had missed Jimin greatly. It’s been over one year without seeing each other since the elder graduated high school and left Busan. Jungkook had missed his best friend during that time but he’s finally in Seoul with Jimin again, even if it’s just for a week.

Jungkook is in Seoul to take the talent exam on campus for the Art School but first, he has to hug Jimin as much as he can. He’s doing it right now and he doesn’t plan on letting go soon. However, even when he’s secure in Jimin’s embrace, he’s a little bit worried about Seoul.

His best friend assures him everything will go okay. Just as his parents were, Jungkook was worried about traveling alone. As he walks through the train station, inside his head, he hears his parents worried advice repeatedly but he soon feels at ease when Jimin is next to him.

Jimin told Jungkook he was going to take care of everything in Seoul, and his parents were convinced by this because they have always trusted Jimin.

Jimin had also explained everything they were doing in Seoul to him but Jungkook still felt a little awkward as they rode a bus.

“Your boyfriend will be staying with me, right?” Jungkook mutters while staring at the street outside.

“Yes!" Jimin perks up. "He’s super nice, Kookie,” Jimin assures him. “And his roommate is staying over with a friend, so he’s giving you his room and you can have privacy!”

“And don’t worry about scents, Hoseok hyung is a really clean person..."

Jungkook is nervous about meeting Jimin's new friends. “I didn’t want to impose like that on them.”

Jimin shakes his head. He's a lot more confident now, Jungkook notices. “Don’t worry! They are nice!”

Jimin is very in love with his boyfriend and he only talked wonders about him since they started dating and during the time before coming to Seoul Jungkook spoke to him on videocall with Jimin and Yoongi seemed nice but Jungkook has to admit he's really wary about cat hybrids.

There's nothing wrong with cat hybrids but if they want to, their nails can turn into claws and they can scratch and they have sharp teeth and unlike Jungkook -who is a bunny hybrid- it's more common for cats to go feral but his perception changes when he personally meets Yoongi.

He realizes Yoongi is very calm and sweet and he won't scratch or bite Jungkook. During the few days Jungkook spends in his apartment, Yoongi is always trying to chat with him even when Jimin isn’t around. Not because he wants to be a good boyfriend but because he's nice.

Jimin told Jungkook Yoongi hides his cat ears and his tail when he's in the street or around strangers but when he’s around Jungkook he doesn’t wear anything to cover them, which means he's comfortable around Jungkook and that makes Jungkook feel better about being in Seoul.

Yoongi was making breakfast for the two while they waited for Jimin to come over and pick Jungkook up. “Hey, Kook, you will need somewhere to stay once you start classes, right? Or you're staying in the dorms?”

“Oh! I forgot about it because I haven’t gotten accepted yet....”

“But you’re getting accepted at school,” Yoongi speaks as if it was a fact.

“I guess so…” Jungkook murmurs while avoiding looking at him. He's nervous about the exam.

"I don't recommend staying in the dorms," Yoongi says. Jungkook looks up. "They aren't the best for hybrids."

Jungkook's ear go flat when he notices the seriousness in Yoongi's voice. That was exactly one of his parent's worries. Back home, it was a small town and they knew everyone and no one was ever mean because Jungkook was a hybrid but it might be different in a big city.

“I think I mentioned this to you before but there are some hybrid friendly buildings nearby campus. And those are a lot better than staying in the dorms because all your neighbours are hybrids. Would you want us to go check them out?”

Jungkook blinks at the cat hybrid. “Yes!”

He has never been wary around humans back home but he understands how could staying in the dorms be dangerous.

“Okay, I’ll organize that for you after the entrance exam. Is that good?” Yoongi wonders. Jungkook nods. Yoongi is nice. Jungkook can see why Jimin likes him so much.

After the entrance exam, everything happens quickly.

Jimin and Yoongi take him out for a drink so he takes his mind off everything before getting the results and Yoongi teaches him how to drink whiskey. It's fun and Jungkook can’t help but feel excited about moving to Seoul.

“Is Jimin coming with us?” Jungkook wonders the next day when he and Yoongi are going to see the apartments.

“Nah, it's a hybrids only event.” Yoongi offers him a gummy smile when he covers his head with a grey beanie. Even if it shows a little of fangs, Jungkook smiles back.

The take a bus to get to the apartments and on his way there Yoongi explained he likes architecture so he had a lot of fun browsing through the apartments and he told Jungkook he would be happy to help him decorate.

Jungkook is happy about having a new friend already.

The apartments are small since they’re for only one person and they’re perfect for Jungkook. Most of them are studio apartments. All the buildings they visit are nice in general. Yoongi has good taste. Jungkook has been bouncing since they went inside the first building.

Jungkook thinks they have found the one when they walk inside a nice apartment with special windows to filter the sunlight and soundproof walls for sensitive hybrids. Even the lady showing them the place is a rabbit hybrid too! Everything about it is perfect for Jungkook

They still have more places to visit according to Yoongi's list but Jungkook's heart is already set on this apartment. He loves it. The last building they visit is nice but not as fancy as the one Jungkook had liked best so far. It's the farthest building from campus too.

It doesn’t have special treatment for hybrids like soundproof walls but it’s still a building made for hybrids only, safer than any other kind of building or living in the campus dorms. The apartment itself is nice and it's the cheaper out of all but Jungkook isn't convinced.

To make things worse when they walk out of the apartment, they meet the neighbor across the hall as he enters his house. And it's a tiger hybrid.

Jungkook startles when he sees him, his instinct make him jump a step back and hide behind Yoongi even if Yoongi is shorter than him.

Yoongi looks over his shoulder, surprised by Jungkook's reaction. The tiger hybrid doesn't seem to notice, meanwhile, the dog hybrid who was showing them around only bows in greeting.

Jungkook can handle being around a cat, but a tiger? Those are the most... feral hybrids.

Jungkook has never seen one so close. Back home he would go to school with only three more hybrids, a rabbit, a squirrel, and a dog. Never... a tiger. Jungkook's ears are flat against his head and he hunches to properly hide behind Yoongi which is hard because Yoongi is small.

“Hi!” The tiger greets. He has forgotten about his key card and he is far more interested in Jungkook and Yoongi. He has dark hair and an intense gaze.

Jungkook doesn't reply, for some strange reason he feels like he has to run for his life so he only hurries down the hall.

Yoongi runs behind him. Jungkook hears him apologizing to the tiger hybrid and to the man who showed them the apartment and he trails behind Jungkook as they go down the stairs. "Kook? What the hell, are you okay?"

“I like this one building the least!" Jungkook shrieks.

They're still going down the stairs so Yoongi's words echo. "Why?"

Jungkook stays still by the end of the staircase waiting for Yoongi. He speaks once Yoongi is only some steps higher so Jungkook has to look up at him. "They were showing a prey an apartment across a predator!"

Yoongi stops going down the stairs to look down at him in disbelief. Then he frowns and finally, he shakes his head. “Well… I haven’t heard someone talk about predators and preys in a long time,” Yoongi chuckles. "Like- back in middle school. People still believe in that?"

Jungkook stares at him with wide eyes but doesn't answer. His parents have always told him to be careful around predators. They worry a lot about Jungkook so they're not making it up. Predators are more likely to act feral, unlike prey hybrids. Everyone knows that!

Yoongi takes a step down, slowly because he has noticed Jungkook is anxious. "I thought it was a thing we're told when we're little. Like children's stories..." Jungkook stares. "Maybe I haven't heard about it a long time because I don’t hang out with hybrids anymore," he tries

That could be it but also- “You’re a cat so you don’t understand!” Yoongi blinks at him. “You’re a predator!”

Yoongi's eyes widen and his lips go into an 'o' shape. He looks cute. "Oh right. I am one." He then relaxes, a lazy smile stretches around his face. Jungkook frowns.

"But like- why should the building separate you from having a tiger hybrid neighbor?"

"Because of this!" Jungkook points at himself. "It's my natural reaction to run away when I feel I'm in danger. I won't be able to leave my house if I feel like I'm in danger constantly!"

"As a prey hybrid, I'll try to escape when I'm around a predator hybrid because of my hybrid nature! And my presence could even influence badly on the predator hybrid! It would be best for the building to avoid such scenarios," he explains quickly to a wide-eyed Yoongi.

He sighs, crossing his arms over his chest. "Instinctual hybrid reactions," Yoongi grumbles. "I mean, we all can control those but-" he takes a deep breath. "Yeah, I guess I get that, Kook. I guess where you're coming from." Jungkook relaxes now that Yoongi understands.

It’s quiet between them after that. It's a precaution, Jungkook worries about his safety. “I hope I can get the other apartment,” he wishes out loud.

Yoongi nods and he takes a step forward. "Yeah, me too. Come on, let's go for ice cream, you look like you've seen a ghost."

Jungkook can control his natural fear around a cat, but a tiger is a little too much. "You're buying?" Jungkook turns around and hops behind Yoongi as he walks outside the building. He grumbles his response. "Can it be frozen fruit?" Jungkook tries.

Yoongi smiles. "Yeah, sure."

Jungkook shouldn’t have wished for the other apartment out loud. He knows his luck and he should have known he was going to jinx it.

Everything else goes smoothly for him, he is accepted in the Art School and he finishes his school year with good grades to his parent’s surprise.

But months later, when Jungkook and his father are doing the maths for Jungkook’s expenses in Seoul he realizes he can only afford the building he liked less. The one with the tiger.

He didn't tell his parents about that little experience in Seoul and he won't tell them now.

His parents had been so worried about him going to Seoul, if he had told them about the tiger hybrid they would have frozen on spot. Jungkook had begged them so much to let him take the entrance exam and they only agreed because of Jimin otherwise they would have said no.

They were relieved when Jungkook told them he was planning on renting a room in a hybrid friendly building. If he told them about the tiger hybrid then he'd get in trouble and his parents would find an excuse to make him stay. If he can only afford that building, he'll do it.

He texts Yoongi about it. Yoongi thinks being the neighbor of a tiger hybrid is better than staying in the dorms but he reminds Jungkook is up to him to decide. asks

His parents were already thrilled about the hybrid buildings so tiger hybrid or not, Jungkook is going to Seoul.

He'll just have to ignore him. Jungkook reminds himself this is the kind of obstacles life will throw his way

A month later, when he goes to Seoul he goes to the room he and Yoongi checked that day. He stares at the door across the hall before hiding in his new rented apartment.

Yoongi brings two friends to help Jungkook move in. Plus, they wanted to meet Jungkook since Yoongi and Jimin were always talking about him. They’re called Hoseok and Namjoon. They tell him about their other friend, Seokjin, but say he couldn't come because of work.

Jungkook likes Namjoon and Hoseok right away. He keeps thanking Hoseok for giving him his room all those months ago when he first came to Seoul. The couple carries some boxes with Jungkook to the third floor but they grow tired before Jungkook and he ends up carrying the most.

Jimin doesn’t help with the boxes even if he can carry them effortlessly, instead, he sits on the floor of the rented room and starts unboxing the important stuff while Yoongi sets up the largest furniture -he said he was good at that stuff-. Jungkook feels giddy, he hops around.

Jimin fascinated by all the stuff Jungkook has brought from Busan, remembering his room in their hometown. Posters and games. He’s giggling at the fairy lights Jungkook brought and he’s having a blast untangling them.

Sometimes Jimin acts like the kitty instead of Yoongi.

However, Yoongi sits next to him at some point, their arms brushing and he starts untangling the fairy lights with Jimin. They are not doing anything romantic but they can't stop giggling at the other. Jungkook can’t help but think they look like two little kittens together.

It's cramped when they are all inside since it's not exactly a room thought for having so many people but Jungkook likes it, Yoongi and Jimin are putting together a desk. Namjoon and Hoseok insisted on ordering food for Jungkook so now they’re setting the table.

They have left the door open because the apartment has a funny smell. Of new and recently cleaned with many products.

But Jungkook doesn’t want to leave the door open for too long. He keeps glancing at it, afraid they might meet the tiger hybrid who lives across the hall again.

They don’t come across the hybrid though, he doesn’t appear at all and Jungkook has a nice first day and he makes new friends and his room looks great at the end of it.

That first day in his new apartment he might have managed to avoid his neighbor hybrid but he has no luck the following day. Jungkook was just finishing making a list of groceries he needs to buy when he’s interrupted by a knock on his door and Jimin wasn’t coming over today…

He gasps when he saw the tiger hybrid through the peephole. Involuntarily, he freezes, and his ears go flat in stress. A natural reaction from a bunny to predators like a tiger. Jungkook takes a deep breath, wondering if he should open the door. What does his neighbor want?

Jungkook starts worrying, what if he needs something? Jungkook knew this was going to happen eventually but he wasn't prepared for it to be so soon. In the end, he controls himself and decides to open the door because it would be rude to leave him waiting if he needs something.

The first thing Jungkook thinks when he’s face to face with his neighbor again (but now way closer than the last time) is that he’s very handsome. He has big eyelashes and pretty eyes. However, when he shows him a boxy smile Jungkook can see his sharp teeth and it makes him tense

But he keeps himself in check and tries to relax. If the tiger hybrid smells distress on him, everything could escalate and turn things worse. He starts talking, “hey, I thought I could come by to introduce myself. I think you didn’t have such a good impression of me last time?”

"I know new places can be too much for bunny hybrids and adding a new person to the mix must have made you nervous last time," he talks and as he does, Jungkook sees his sharp teeth peeking over and over. "I saw you with your friends yesterday and I didn't want to interrupt."

Jungkook grows nervous. He barely registers his neighbor’s words because he’s staring at his teeth. “Umh hello.” He bows.

The guy nods like waiting for something else but then he smiles widely. “I’m Kim Taehyung!” He bows. “I was born in 1995.”

“I’m Jeon Jungkook… 1997”

“Oh! You can call me hyung,” the tiger hybrid announces happily. Almost proud, judging by the way he puffs chest out. Jungkook is nervous. “Where are you from?” he wonders.

“Busan…”

Taehyung nods. “I knew you weren’t from around here... and you’ve come to Seoul to study?”

Jungkook nods. "You're from the city of Busan or the countryside?" he asks.

"Countryside," Jungkook answers.

Taehyung hums in understanding. He's strangely comfortable around a stranger. “Listen, I’ve been in your place before. Moving from another place, from the countryside."

"And then coming here, where everything is so fast and- and living alone, plus being a hybrid… I guess I wanted to tell you that if you need a friend, I’m right across the hall! Don’t hesitate to look for me if you need anything!”

Jungkook stares at the tiger with wide eyes.

He looks intimidating, and Jungkook shivers just thinking of the black strips of his tail but just like Yoongi... he's nice. Jungkook nods and bows. The tiger hybrid offers him one last smile before he turns around. Jungkook stays still watching Taehyung returns to his apartment.

“Why do you look so gloomy Jungkookie?” Jimin pouts, his voice is whiny and a little high so some customers from the restaurant turn to see them but they relax once they see it's just three boys. “Are you nervous about starting classes tomorrow?”

Jungkook sighs before eating.

Yoongi has taken them out to eat meat before Jungkook’s first week of classes which makes Jungkook think Yoongi and Jimin are acting like his parents. Only that they're cooler.

Jungkook only shrugs at Jimin's question, he doesn't want to explain why he's so tense.

Even if he's so too tense he barely enjoys the meal and Jimin notices. He stays quiet and Jimin doesn't push through. After a moment of eating in silence, he looks up to find Jimin feeding Yoongi, bringing a piece of meat he chooses to Yoongi’s mouth with his chopsticks.

Jimin has one hand under the meat in case it falls and he’s making a silly “Ahhh” sound which has the cat hybrid smiling dumbly. They are such a cute couple. Jungkook looks back to his food. He wants something like that too- someone to feed or someone who will feed him.

“It’s the tiger hybrid from the last time,” Jungkook confesses. “That’s why I’m gloomy,” he adds to answer Jimin's question in concrete.

Jimin looks away from his boyfriend to squint his eyes at Jungkook. It seems like he’s about to say something but it’s Yoongi who speaks up.

“Is he bothering you?” Yoongi’s voice is deep, making Jungkook yelp, but he quickly relaxes because the grey beanie Yoongi is wearing makes him look very soft instead of intimidating.

“No! No! On the contrary… We talked and he was nice. Too nice, maybe,” Jungkook murmurs.

Jimin looks between them. He's a little lost. "The tiger hybrid from months ago?" He asks Yoongi. After a small pause, Jimin quickly makes the connection and turns to Jungkook. “How is he too nice?” Jungkook can feel his protectiveness under the curious question.

“I don’t know…” Jungkook’s focus drifts off to the food on the table. “I don’t trust how nice he was. Maybe he was that nice to get something?”

“Why would you say that?” Jimin asks.

Jungkook blinks. “Because tiger hybrids are predators… and bunny hybrids are preys.”

“Oh.” Jimin looks confused. There wasn’t any predator hybrid back in their school, so Jimin has no idea of how that works and it’s clear Yoongi hasn’t explained it to him either, or if he did, it was briefly.

It’s not expected of him to know, either way, it’s a hybrid thing.

No one teaches that in school, it’s mostly hybrid parents who tell their hybrid children to be careful of their natural instincts. "Is that?" Jimin turns to Yoongi, expecting him to explain.

"That’s an old fashioned belief,” Yoongi starts explaining. Jungkook perks up.

“It’s a thing said between hybrids that focuses on our animal side,” Yoongi elaborates. Jimin nods. “It's kind of like- there are things that bring out our animal side like... mating cycles or particular scents we like." Jungkook frowns but he nods at the explanation.

"We're more feral than the regular human during our mating cycle," Yoongi goes on. "Or for example- being around someone with a scent we like brings out more animalistic features from us. You follow me, right?" he asks Jimin.

Jimin nods quickly, he seems to understand perfectly.

"Like how you purr when I touch you," Jimin tries. Jungkook blushes and looks away from them.

Yoongi scrunches his nose but he nods. "Like how I purr around you," he agrees. "Our predator and prey side brings out different reactions to other prey and predators hybrids..."

"Right, Jungkook?" Yoongi turns to him.

Jungkook looks up. "Yes! When I'm around predators, I grow nervous and will probably try to run away. On the other hand, my presence can make predator hybrids turn more aggressive because I'm prey." Jimin nods slowly, understanding more.

"Now, that happens in real specific situations," Yoongi cuts in. He rests his arm in the back of Jimin's chair to get more comfortable. "Like if a predator hybrid is literally chasing a prey one. Usually, kids play like that and then a predator hybrid might bite the little prey."

Jungkook nods quickly. That's exactly what his parents told him. "Because they are little and they can't control their instincts. When we are kids our parents tell us to be careful when playing with other hybrids because a little innocent wrestling can bring out animal instincts"

"Specifically predator hybrids harming prey hybrids." Jungkook nods even faster, his bunny ears shake with the movement. "When we grow up, predator hybrids don't go around jumping on prey hybrids. I can't think of a situation that could bring out a animalistic reaction-"

"-between two hybrid adults. Like- it's just something parents tell us when we're kids to avoid dangerous situations."

"But the sentiment is still there even if we grow up," Jungkook tries. Yoongi turns to see him. "We're still prey and predator no matter what," he says.

"Yeah, but not really," Yoongi sighs. "Because we're functional adults- we live around humans and we're part of the society." Jimin had told Jungkook Yoongi had strong feelings about the hybrids, he thinks he's seeing that right now. "We don't act like animals all the time."

"Plus, that prey and predator distinction might be good when we're kids to avoid fights and biting but when we are adults it ends up creating prejudice around people. Like- what's happening to you. You can't believe a tiger hybrid is nice and friendly because he's a predator."

Jungkook is speechless. He- he had never seen it that way. Jimin looks between Jungkook and Yoongi but then he turns to his boyfriend. “Are you a predator, baby?” He is pointing at Yoongi’s chest.

"Yes, I am," Yoongi says simply. Jimin hums and bites on his lower lip.

Yoongi breaks his gaze away from Jimin. His cheeks are pink. “Hey, bun. What I said right now doesn't mean he doesn't have feral instincts. It's true you could bring predator reactions out of him- I'm just trying to put it in perspective so you're not so closed off."

"If it's not just a prejudice about feline- predator hybrids and their animal side, and he really is bothering you, you should let me know,” Yoongi says.

Jungkook feels warm but then Jimin’s bright laughter cuts in. “Yoongi! What are you going to do? Fight him?” Jimin teases.

Yoongi turns to Jimin with a smirk. “Maybe I will.”

“But you're a kitten,” Jimin scolds. “He’s a tiger!” And much bigger than Yoongi hyung but Jungkook keeps quiet.

“And?” Yoongi scoffs.

“Kitties are little,” Jimin talks in a baby voice before leaving a peck on Yoongi’s lips.

Yoongi rolls his eyes but then he smiles dumbly and catches Jimin’s lips again. They share a couple of pecks while smiling. Jungkook looks away when Jimin giggles.

Yoongi's voice makes him look up in a second though. “For real, bun. Tell us if anything happens with him.”

"I don't want you to judge a hybrid before getting to know them just because of something we're told as children. Maybe I am a little biased because they are feline as me," he snorts. "But if you genuinely find him strange, talk to us."

Jungkook's ears go straight up in alert.

A moment ago he said he didn't trust Taehyung's intentions and that he thought it was all an act to get something from Jungkook but now he feels bad for even suggesting that. He doesn’t want Yoongi and Jimin to think that badly of his tiger neighbor. “He’s not bothering me…”

“He didn't do anything weird. I actually think he’s cute,” Jungkook confesses. "I won't lie- his teeth scared but me he had a pretty smile and he was really warming."

Yoongi and Jimin only stare at him with wide eyes. Jungkook feels a blush rapidly conquering his cheeks.

“That’s why I was gloomy, I think?” Yoongi and Jimin are blinking. Jungkook splutters. “Because I was scared he’s not being genuine! I was wondering if he was just friendly because it’s funny to… lead a bunny on. But then Yoongi hyung said all those things... and now...”

Yoongi and Jimin look at each other. “I have to meet him!” Jimin announces happily.

Just the thought of Jimin and Jungkook's neighbour in a place together has Jungkook’s ears straightening in caution after they had flopped down. “No!” Jungkook shakes his hands widely.

Jimin is vibrating on his seat. “I have to! I have to see if he’s genuine or not myself!”

Jungkook shakes his head. “No! I've only talked to him once, Jimin! That’s not happening! Don't be weird!” He hopes it’s not obvious how much he is blushing. Judging by Jimin's grin, it is.

Yoongi chuckles dryly. “Don’t be invasive, kitten.” He lifts a hand to Jimin’s nape and squeezes. Jimin pouts but he nods. "Let Jungkook get to know his neighbor, first."

Jungkook looks down at this food. That doesn't seem like such a good idea but at the same time, it does.

After Yoongi's words about Jungkook's belief, Jungkook feels like the tiger hybrid is everywhere. Jungkook always sees him when he leaves his apartment when he takes the trash out when he returns from classes.

The tiger hybrid always waves at him and Jungkook shyly waves back.

But he still hurries inside his apartment to avoid exchanging words. He is considering what Yoongi said about not having prejudices-. His parents have always worried a little too much so he understands why they were so intent with telling him to be careful or predators.

They didn't want him to come to Seoul at first, and they've always protected him a lot so it makes sense. But maybe Yoongi is right and he only needs to control himself, he's an adult now! He moved out and he came to Seoul to live alone! He can control his hybrid instincts.

No one is denying predator hybrids can affect prey hybrids but when he thinks about it, Jungkook admits the fear he felt when he saw Taehyung the first time was a childish reaction. He ran away! Adults don't do that- Yoongi wouldn't do that.

He has to get to know his neighbor.

Next time Taehyung is opening his door just when Jungkook is returning from class, he yells, “Hey, neighbor!”

Jungkook stands still, staring at the tiger hybrid and he says, "hi!" He won't judge without knowing and he won't let a child warning affect him now that he's an adult.

Taehyung stares. "Oh, you said hi back." Jungkook nods and his bunny ears flop with him. Jungkook only stands, he doesn't take a step because he's actually a little afraid of the tiger in front of him. He's starting to freeze as he repeats to himself he needs to keep it together.

"Uh- Wanna hang out?" Taehyung asks.

Jungkook eyes widen. He didn't think this was going to happen. What if he wants to hurt Jungkook? He takes a deep breath and remembers Yoongi. He's a cat hybrid and he was nice. He won't judge- he won't judge- “Okay,” he mutters.

The tiger hybrid is the frozen one now. Eyes wide and shoulders slump. His tail is swaying back and forth in interest. Jungkook looks at him. If the building owners don't see anything wrong in a tiger living next to a bunny, then Jungkook can do this. “Lets hang out,” he repeats.

The tiger hybrid nods slowly, but then he shakes his head, a handsome smirk on his face. "Why are you laughing?" Jungkook demands.

“Sorry- it’s only that you said yes, I thought I wasn’t going to get this far,” Taehyung murmurs. Jungkook blushes.

“Ah- well, let’s hang out!”

“How do you feel more comfortable?" Taehyung forgets about his door and he only focus on Jungkook. "We could go to eat. I have time right now.” Jungkook shakes his head. That sounds like a date. “Or we could stay at mine,” Taehyung tries after noticing Jungkook’s wariness.

Jungkook shakes his head. He knows better than to go inside a predator’s home. He scolds himself for thinking that- Taehyung just asked about his comfort. He scrunches his nose- “Or we could stay at yours?” Taehyung tries again, confused by Jungkook's expression. Jungkook nods.

"But not right now," Jungkook says quickly. He needs to prepare himself mentally for sharing a small space with a predator. He's too on edge right now.

"Okay," Taehyung murmurs. He takes a step closer. "Let's exchange numbers, and then we can agree when to hang out. Good?"

"Good," Jungkook mumbles. He tenses when Taehyung takes another step forward and when he hands him his phone, but Jungkook keeps himself in check, and he types down his number on the phone. Taehyung calls him.

"Now you have mine too," he smiles when he says. He's so handsome...

Jungkook is proud when he closes the door behind him. He rests his back on it and stares down at his phone to type Taehyung's contact name. He adds a tiger emoji and giggles at it. He never thought he'd have a tiger hybrid in his contact list but he guesses that happens in Seoul.

Jungkook prepares himself for the "getting to know each other." Taehyung will come over later today, and Jungkook won't freeze nor run away. He can control his prey instincts around a tiger because he's not a kid. He repeats to himself over and over that Taehyung won't hurt him.

He tenses when Taehyung arrives, but he knows it's because his parents had told him so many things about predator hybrids he can't help it. However, his parents are not here. Right now, it's just him and Taehyung getting together to play videogames. Just two hybrids.

It’s fun. Jungkook hates to admit it, but he has a good time. They’ve been playing games for hours. They found out they liked the same games once Jungkook started listing his favorites through text, so Taehyung decided they should get together to play. It was a good idea.

Taehyung is an excellent player, and Jungkook likes having a competitive partner. He usually plays online, but playing with someone next to him has no comparison. It's better because he can see their reaction, he can hear them laughing next to him. Taehyung has lovely laughter.

For that moment, arms brushing while holding onto the controllers, leaning onto the other to make them lose, Jungkook forgets of his previous fears about Taehyung. Seeing him laugh when he wins and seeing him pout and whine when Jungkook wins has Jungkook feeling warm all over.

“You had fun?” Taehyung asks before he leaves late at night. They ordered burgers and fries, and Taewhyung ended up staying later than they expected. it’s already past midnight, they didn’t even notice so many hours had gone by. Jungkook nods happily, bunny ears flopping.

“Let’s do it some other time, then?” Taehyung smiles

“Yes!” Jungkook feels his ears stand up at the suggestion. They do that when he’s happy. It's involuntarily, and Jungkook lifts a hand to them, trying to push them back to his head again. Taehyung’s eyes widen at the reaction.

And then he starts laughing but he’s not making fun of Jungkook. It's not that kind of laughter, it's a way softer one. Jungkook feels embarrassed; nonetheless, moving the hands from his ears down to cover his face.

“Hey, don’t worry,” Taehyung starts. “It’s cute.”

Jungkook stares at him with wide eyes between the gap of fingers. He wants to ask what's cute but Taehyung keeps talking. “I was the same when I moved here. I couldn’t control my reactions.” Jungkook lowers his hands in shock.

“Really?” He asks, leaning closer to Taehyung.

“Yes! Tigers are territorial,” Taehyung starts to explain. Jungkook gulps at such a harsh word. “So I would growl at people! But it was unintentional. I wanted to make friends, but since I used to live only with tiger hybrids back home, we were all very- free with our instincts.”

A place with many tiger hybrids growling at fighting- Jungkook thinks he's going to faint. “When I saw you that first day, and you ran away, I figured you were like me,” Taehyung explains. "Because a bunny running from a tiger is a really... instinctive reaction, you know?"

Taehyung has a different way to see Jungkook's reaction. He's even comparing them. "You must be really affected by new scents and people, too?" Jungkook nods. "The same happened to me. But eventually, I got used to the way things work around here. I think you're doing great!"

Taehyung is smiling at him with eyes gone into a crescent that even his sharp teeth can't make him look dangerous. Jungkook feels like he has something to say. “I’m sorry I judged you before knowing you.” Taehyung’s eyes widen in surprise. “I am a little scared of predators…”

“Oh,” Taehyung perks up. “I haven’t heard any of that since middle school,” he laughs, but his face soon turns blank. "Oh no- I must have scared the crap out of you, knocking on your door all of a sudden and coming up at you at often."

Jungkook starts shaking his head.

But- "I won't say you didn't scare me, but now I know you meant no harm!" Jungkook quickly supplies. "Plus, you always had friendly intentions, so I didn't freeze. I only felt like running away," he murmurs.

Taehyung scratches behind his tiger ears. "I'm sorry I scared you."

"I mean, if a predator hybrid like me approaches you with bad intentions, they could take advantage of you being a prey," Taehyung points out. Jungkook nods quickly. "So, it's okay to be careful, but I'm glad you gave me a chance"

Jungkook sighs and beams at Taehyung. "Me too!"

He likes how comprehensive Taehyung is. Maybe Jungkook needed to hear someone with a much stronger opinion like Yoongi's to push himself to approach Taehyung, but it's a comfort knowing Taehyung seems to understand what Jungkook was going through. He feels lighter and fuzzy.

"You're not scared of me, then?" Taehyung inquires.

Jungkook jumps slightly at the straight forward question. "Umh, I think I'm not." He quickly shakes his head, correcting himself. "I'm not. However, you're still a tiger..." Jungkook admits. It makes Taehyung laugh.

"That's fine. Bunnies can get used to tigers with time," Taehyung decides. His tail is swirling and for a change, Jungkook wonders if it's soft to touch. It makes Jungkook smile to himself. "I still have to beat you in PES so we can work with that."

"Alright," Jungkook nods.

Just as Taehyung said, hanging out wasn't a one-time thing. Taehyung comes back to Jungkook’s apartment to play another time and another time. After some weeks, Jungkook thinks he can call Taehyung his friend. Everything is calm between the two, and nothing strange has happened.

However, when it comes to Taehyung, Jungkook doesn't feel the same surge of happiness he felt when he realized he could call Yoongi his friend. He doesn't feel the same giddiness he felt when Namjoon and Hoseok told him to call him hyung. He feels something different.

“I saw the tiger hybrid when I arrived!” Jimin announces happily as soon as he enters Jungkook’s apartment. Jimin is here to help Jungkook study for his maths exam, but he wants to chat first.

“Oh.” Jungkook blushes at the mention of Taehyung. He hasn't tell Jimin about him.

“He’s so handsome!” Jimin starts. “He has beautiful eyes! And I was close enough to see his eyelashes! They're so long! His ears are cute too!”

“Yeah… Taehyung is very handsome,” Jungkook murmurs. He knows Taehyung is very handsome but he doesn’t want to keep talking about him-

He gets too excited... “Yoongi hyung shouldn’t listen to you talking about another man like this.”

Jimin snorts. “Hyung is not a jealous guy, plus he knows he’s the only one for me,” Jimin sighs dreamily.

Jungkook rolls his eyes at his best friend. “Come on, help me study.”

Yoongi arrives hours later to pick Jimin up. Jimin convinces him to come upstairs so they can hang out with Jungkook for a little longer. Jungkook likes the company.

“Jungkook is throwing a party,” Jimin announces as his greeting. He’s hugging Yoongi as soon as he walks inside.

“Yeah?” Yoongi smiles before leaving a peck on Jimin’s lips. Jungkook can’t help but feel weird when he thinks of Taehyung after seeing them.

“It’s the end of his first midterms! We’re going to celebrate,” Jimin tells him. Yoongi looks at Jungkook for confirmation, and he nods.

“Cool- can I bring friends?” Yoongi asks.

“It's going to be at your apartment. Here's too small. Hoseok hyung already said yes,” Jimin informs him.

“I was talking to Jungkook, not to you, menace,” Yoongi shows his fangs at Jimin when he scolds him. Jimin only giggles at him.

Months ago, Jungkook would have jumped just at seeing a kitten's fangs but now he only finds the banter between Yoongi and Jimin cute. Yoongi means no harm when he growls at Jimin, it's only playful and he's showing his true colors around Jimin. It only means he's comfortable.

Jungkook is still a little nervous around Taehyung; he can't help it because his scent is strong, and bunnies are sensitive hybrids. But slowly, he's grown more comfortable. He nudges at him from time to time, and Taehyung told him it was cute. He hasn't seen him growl though.

He's seen Taehyung's tail fall around him when they sit together to play videogames. Right now, Yoongi's tail curls around Jimin's arm as they talk. Jungkook wonders if it's a display of comfort. He used to be worried about his hybrid reactions, but they don't seem so bad anymore

Taehyung would never harm him, Jungkook is sure of that. However, he is still nervous when he knocks on Taehyung’s door the next day. He could have texted him, but he wanted to see Taehyung, so he’s here.

Taehyung smiles at him when he opens the door. “Hey, Kook.”

“Tae,” Jungkook smiles. “I wanted to tell you my friend is throwing a party this weekend, and I wondered if you wanted to come?”

Taehyung tilts his head in confusion. “A party?”

“It’s not big or anything like that. Just some of my friends getting together after midterms…”

“Sure, I’d like to go,” Taehyung replies quickly- Jungkook beams at him. He's glad Taehyung will go. He’s not sure how he will get along with Jimin or Yoongi, but he’s excited about his friends meeting Taehyung. “Is it okay if I bring a friend?” Taehyung asks after a moment.

Jungkook wasn’t expecting that question since he thought they would be together all night- he quickly shakes the thought away. He’s dumb. Taehyung would feel more comfortable with a friend if he's going to be around strangers. Jungkook nods, he tells Taehyung he can.

They decide to exchange details by text, and Jungkook should feel happier because all of his new friends from Seoul are going to be together in one place, but for some reason, when he returns to his flat and closes the door, his bunny ears are down and pointing backward.

Jungkook’s ears are flat after his last midterm. He knows it’s because he’s nervous and a little down about Taehyung bringing someone to the party. He doesn't tell Jimin what's really bothering him, but Jimin still assures him everything will be alright with a tight hug.

However, Jimin panics once Jungkook tells him Taehyung is coming over too. “You didn’t say he was going!”

“I- I-” Jungkook stutters. "I told Hoseok hyung!"

"He didn't tell me!" Jimin complains loudly. They are in his room at the dorms because they didn't want to leave campus.

Jungkook and Jimin hang out in his room at the dorms from time to time, and Jungkook always thinks he made the right choice moving to a hybrid building. It's a lot better. Not only because of his tiger neighbor but in general. “You need to look cute!” Jimin shrieks. “Cuter!"

"Why?" Jungkook looks at Jimin desperately searching through his clothes: which is futile because Jungkook is way bigger than Jimin.

"Because!" Jimin starts while bringing up different sweaters. "You have a crush on him!" Jungkook's ears stand straight and his eyes widen.

"Uh- what?" Jungkook tried not to think of that word. He was still struggling to be Taehyung's friend since they are such different hybrids, but he didn't-

"You do! You don't think I know who you're hanging out with when you don't text me back!" Jimin smartly supplies.

Jungkook blushes. He always answers Jimin's texts no matter who he is with, but whenever Jungkook is with Taehyung, he doesn't check his phone. He tries to justify himself, saying they lose track of time together, but he falls quiet. Any comment will be incriminating for Jimin.

He hasn't considered calling what he feels for Taehyung a crush, probably because Jungkook is always so caught up in the fact that he's a tiger hybrid, but once Jimin says the word aloud, everything becomes clear for Jungkook.

Now, he's even more nervous about tonight.

When Jungkook and Jimin arrive at Yoongi's apartment, the older men have already had a round of drinks. They introduced Seokjin to Jungkook weeks ago, but since he's always busy with work, he's the hyung Jungkook sees the least. He will take this opportunity to talk to him more!

Jungkook told his friends from class about the get-together, and three of them said they wanted to come. They arrive a little later by just on time with Hoseok's and Yoongi's other friends. Yoongi puts on a snapback to hide his kitten ears when more people start to arrive.

Hoseok drags Jimin to make drinks and to chat with people. They are the ones making sure the atmosphere between strangers isn't awkward. Namjoon and Yoongi stand by the window while Jungkook animatedly tells Seokjin about midterms with side commentaries from his friends.

Jungkook is having fun, but he keeps glancing down at his phone, expecting Taehyung to text him, letting him know he's on his way. But he gets no text.

Taehyung doesn't go to the same University as all of them, and he didn't finish midterms this weekend. Maybe he's busy.

But he would have told Jungkook if he couldn't make it. Taehyung wouldn't stand him up.

Jungkook sighs, ears flopping down. He distracts himself with his friends and with the drinks Hoseok makes. (They aren't as strong as what Yoongi drinks because Hoseok gets dizzy faster)

It's almost midnight when Taehyung knocks on the door with his friend. He didn't text Jungkook, so Jimin is the one who opens the door.

From the couch, Jungkook freezes, and his nose scrunches because of three things: Taehyung's friend is handsome, old, and a panther hybrid.

Jungkook is a bit in awe of how handsome Taehyung’s friend is. But most important than that, Jungkook can tell he's a grown man. Seokjin and Yoongi are older than Jungkook, but Taehyung’s friend is a man. He doesn't look like he's in college anymore. It makes Jungkook nervous.

The same feeling he had when Taehyung wondered if he could bring someone to the party haunts Jungkook again. Is this friend someone precious to Taehyung? Is Jungkook just a kid to Taehyung's eyes, and that's why he always calls him cute? Jungkook stands up to go and say hi.

Taehyung smiles when he sees him. He and Jimin were already talking, but they turned to Jungkook once he was close enough. "Hi!" Taehyung lifts a hand in an awkward wave. "Uh-" he turns to his friend. "This is Jungkook, my neighbor."

The man bows and Jungkook copy him.

“I’m Seojoon,” Taehyung’s handsome friend adds with a gentle smile. He has fangs, but Jungkook isn't scared.

"Are you a cat hybrid?" Jimin blurts out. The three turn his attention on him and find Jimin blushing and covering his mouth. "I'm sorry! I know I'm impertinent!"

It makes Taehyung huff in amusement and Seojoon chuckles. "I know a cat hybrid, and they also have black ears and a black tail, that's why-" Jimin hurries to explain.

"Cat hybrids are smaller," Taehyung says. "Height and size- like you. You have the size of a cat hybrid!"

"I'm a panther hybrid," Seojoon explains. Jimin's eyes widen, and he nods quickly. A smile plays on his lips after a while, which probably means he's thinking about Yoongi.

But Jimin turns to Jungkook. "Under that logic, isn't Jungkookie too big for a bunny hybrid?"

Jungkook is about to say he did too many sports in high school and his parents gave him extra vitamins- but Taehyung is laughing. He covers his mouth and his sharp teeth, but he sounds lovely. Jungkook keeps quiet. "I thought so, too, when I first saw him! I think it's charming!"

"An oversized bunny," Taehyung jokes. Jimin giggles, finding it all very funny. "More space for all his cuteness," Taehyung adds.

Jungkook feels his cheeks growing pink. "Drinks! If you want drinks, you can go to the kitchen," Jungkook starts. He can feel Seojoon's gaze on him.

Jungkook feels awkward at being called charming and cute in less than five minutes. Jimin decides to show them the kitchen and gives Jungkook a moment to collect himself. Jungkook stomps his way back to the couch, flopping next to Seokjin. He crosses his arms over his chest.

Seokjin turns to him. "Kook?"

Since he and Taehyung started to hang out, Jungkook always liked it when Taehyung called him cute. But now, he thinks it's obvious a tiger would find a bunny cute and just that. In contrast, he could consider a panther handsome. It's very different.

It's only instinct of a tiger hybrid to find prey like Junkgkook adorable. Meanwhile, Jungkook has to admit he has a crush on Tarhyung! But he doubts Taehyung would crush on him when he hangs out with men like... Seojoon.

“Jungkook, are you grunting?” Seokjin whispers to him.

“I can’t help it,” Jungkook murmurs. Jungkook wanted an excuse to see Taehyung outside their usual videogames meetings, but Taehyung brought a friend. Because it's most likely, he doesn't see Jungkook the same way Jungkook sees him. Why would Taehyung want a bunny?

Jungkook scoffs at himself. Months ago, he wanted to run away from Taehyung because he was a tiger. Now he wishes Taehyung would pet him between his ears. And he feels a strange urge to nudge at his chest and stay by his side- it's ridiculous. Jungkook's instincts are funny-

Yoongi has gotten closer. He has a hand on Jungkook's shoulder. “It’s bunny hissing,” he explains.

Seokjin's mouth falls open. He is more used to Yoongi hissing than to a bunny grunting. “What’s gotten into you, Kook?” Seokjin asks.

"I'm-" he doesn't know where to start.

He doesn't say much because he hears Jimin voice as he leaves the kitchen with Taehyung and Seojoon. The three of them are chatting as they come closer. Seokjin is a little lost, but Yoongi seems to get it when he looks up because he squeezes Jungkook's shoulder.

Jimin introduces the pair to Yoongi as if they were his all-time friends. Apparently, he and Taehyung clicked. Jungkook taps his foot against the floor impatiently. Seokjin only looks at him with a glint of amusement. "Now, I know how angry bunnies look like," he announces.

Jungkook can't believe he's wishing for a tiger's attention. Months ago, Jungkook would have choked and shrieked at that statement. At the moment, there are three feline hybrids behind him -a tiger and a panther on top of all, feral felines- but Jungkook doesn't want to run.

On the contrary, he wants to stand up and get in between all those predator hybrids so that Taehyung can notice he's here, and he's not just a cute bun.

He does. He stands up abruptly, circles the couch, and goes to stand between a cat, a tiger, and a panther—a bunny like him.

Those are too many claws, too many pointy ears, too many long tails, and too many sharp teeth for Jungkook's taste (at least, Yoongi hides his), but Jungkook stands proudly between them. Taehyung smiles when he sees him. "What are you drinking?" Jungkook asks a little high.

Taehyung looks down at his red cup. "It's soda. I don't like alcohol," he answers.

"Oh," Jungkook didn't prepare to get this far. Yoongi and Seojoon are talking with Jimin, so they barely notice Jungkook's grand interruption.

"You?" Taehyung asks. "You don't drink either?"

Jungkook shakes his head. "I never had drunk alcohol before coming to Seoul. The first time I had some was after my entrance exam because Yoongi hyung took me drinking." Taehyung discreetly looks Yoongi's way to make sure they are talking about the same person. Jungkook nods.

Taehyung turns his body from his friend and Jimin to face Jungkook entirely, focusing only on him. "So, Seoul really has been the place where you've done everything you haven't before?"

He just walked up to three predators hybrids instead of running away. "Yeah, I guess so."

"You're friends with a tiger hybrid," Taehyung says as an example. "I bet no one back home expects something like that."

Jungkook giggles. "Exactly." But it's not only being friends with a tiger hybrid- he has a crush on a tiger hybrid which is far more shocking and new.

He can say so with ease now; he doesn't find Taehyung scary at all. No sharp teeth or claw can make Taehyung scary for Jungkook. He has a sweet smile, and he makes funny jokes, and he laughs at Jungkook's antics. While everyone else is chatting, they're in their little world.

Taehyung's friend ended sitting on the spot Jungkook left on the couch next to Seokjin, leaving Taehyung and Jungkook alone for the rest of the night. Taehyung's University starts exams on Monday, but he admits he didn't want to refuse Jungkook's invitation to the party.

Jungkook panics at this piece of information. "Why didn't you tell me?" he says loudly. His teeth clink together in anxiousness. "You should be home resting or studying!"

Taehyung shakes his hands widely. "No, don't worry! I wanted to come! Plus, I'll finish my essay tomorrow!"

Jungkook makes him promise he will and that he will sleep too. Between laughter, Taehyung promises he will. "You look really scary when you're mad," he teases. "Could have fooled me into believing you're not a bunny."

"Good," Jungkook humphs. But he feels warm inside.

"Bunnies can be scary too!" Jungkook reminds Taehyung.

"I know, I'm seeing with my own eyes." Taehyung shows his fangs when he smiles. "You have a whole predator hybrid shaking in fear," at this point he's teasing but Jungkook is too happy to complain.

When Taehyung finishes his exams, he asks Jungkook to come over so they can play videogames. It's going to be the first time Jungkook goes to Taehyung's room and he's curious to be in the tiger's space. He knows his scent will be stronger there so he tries to remain calm.

Nothing strange has happened between them, even with their predator and prey difference, so it should be okay.

Taehyung’s flat is pretty. He's an art student; there are paintings and drawings everywhere. It's similar to Jungkook's but he feels as if he's somewhere different

Most importantly, Taehyung’s room smells good. As a bunny hybrid, Jungkook is sensitive to scents, usually cautious when entering a new space with a strong scent, however, he's already used to Taehyung. The tiger has a sharp but sweet scent, it makes Jungkook feel at ease.

As usual, they lose track of time as they begin playing. Arms brushing, yelling at the screen and laughing at the other over a bad match.

Everything is going smoothly except for that at some point, and without noticing, Jungkook moves closer to catch Taehyung’s scent better.

It's instinctive for hybrids to do such thing, especially when they are relaxed or when they... like the person next to them. Everyone knows that. Taehyung stills for a second, holding onto the controller, unsure of what to do but then he relaxes and lets Jungkook lean closer.

Taehyung tilts his head, leaving space for Jungkook to nudge against his neck. Jungkook does because that's how bunnies show affection and because he wants to catch Taehyung’s scent better.

At this moment, Jungkook isn't thinking straight anymore. He only thinks about Taehyung.

It's a consequence of walking right into a predator hybrid's space. Jungkook wasn't thinking about that anymore, since he's grown so close to Taehyung. He has forgotten how strong and overwhelming the presence of a hybrid like Taehyung might be for prey like Jungkook.

It brings out their hybrid instincts, stronger than anywhere else because it's Taehyung's room and it's only the two of them. It affects both him and Taehyung.

When Jungkook looks up, he sees Taehyung’s eyes are closed, and only then he realizes Taehyung is trying to kiss him!

Jungkook startles. He yelps and almost jumping, he creates a large distance between them. He’s close to falling on his back with the way he’s stretching. Taehyung opens his eyes widely once he notices the sudden movement. “Oh shit, I’m sorry-” he starts. “Jungkook, I’m sorry-”

Jungkook is trembling, but he doesn’t want Taehyung to apologize! “No, no-”

“I’m sorry, I thought-” Taehyung tries. “I thought we were-” Jungkook notices he’s blushing too. His tail is curling around himself protectively.

“It’s okay!” Jungkook cuts him off. “You thought right!”

Taehyung’s eyes widen at the confession. Jungkook himself is also surprised by his bold words. Taehyung nods but he doesn’t move, only his ears twitch a little, the image too cute for Jungkook not to relax. “I was just taken aback that’s why I jumped away,” Jungkook murmurs.

The silence stretches between them until Taehyung looks up. “So… you wanna kiss?” Jungkook blushes and forces himself to look away from Taehyung's strong gaze. He nods after a second. Taehyung leaves the controller on the floor next to him and crawls closer to Jungkook.

Jungkook looks down, focuses on Taehyung's tail swirling. He knows his blush is bright and it makes him shy but a kiss never comes- instead Taehyung yelps. “Wait- does that mean you like me?” Taehyung’s eyes widen. “Or…”

Jungkook covers his face. “Oh God- yes! I like you"

Jungkook is embarrassed by the turn of events. He hears Taehyung sigh in relief so he looks at him between his fingers. “That’s good,” Taehyung murmurs. He waits until Jungkook stops covering his face; they stare at the other. “I like you too.” He beams at Jungkook. Fangs and all

And Jungkook thinks Taehyung has the prettiest smile he’s ever seen.

They are holding hands; sitting on Taehyung's bed with their backs against the wall. Taehyung said it would be a good idea to talk about what they feel before kissing if Jungkook would be more comfortable that way. Jungkook agreed as long as they held hands while talking.

"But since when?" Taehyung wonders.

"I can't know for sure! I always thought you were cute but it was really because back then I thought predator hybrids were scary!"

"You thought I was cute since you ran away that first time?" Taehyung tries while squinting his eyes.

"I didn't even see your face!" Jungkook giggles. "When you introduced yourself after I moved I thought you were cute."

Taehyung hums. "Me too. I saw you move in and I thought you were adorable because you were hopping around your friends downstairs. I saw you from the window."

"When you arrived with Seojoon ssi to the party, I thought you didn't like adorable and that he was your type," Jungkook admits. "I was angry I'm so adorable."

Taehyung's eyes widen dramatically but then he laughs. "What? That old man? He's like- my best friend, older brother-"

"I took him because I was still unsure if you liked me or not. I needed moral support and a wingman," Taehyung admits. Jungkook giggles. "He has a date with Seokjin ssi, you know? I was his wingman at the end."

Jungkook laughs loudly. "Well, he still made me angry!"

"Oh, yeah, I noticed," Taehyung tells him. "You were- grunting and stomping. Quite territorial for a prey, I must admit." Jungkook feels a bright blush spreading on his cheeks. He tries to squirm away from Taehyung but the tiger only holds him tight. "It was what I needed to see"

"To try and make a move." Jungkook relaxes and leans closer. "I was still worried you weren't comfortable around a tiger yet," he explains. "But then you came over to us, so bravely no freezing or running away. Which is why I thought I could kiss you tonight," he admits.

"And I thought right," Taehyung smiles when he says. Taehyung is so sweet to him, ever since they met. It just makes sense he feel for him.

"You did," Jungkook murmurs. He closes the distance between them and leaves a quick peck against Taehyung's lips, catching him off guard.

Taehyung freezes, like a bunny when they see a tiger for the first time, which has Jungkook smiling against his lips, but then Taehyung quickly relaxes and brings a hand to Jungkook's jaw to tilt his head, and return the peck, and then open his mouth to kiss him so more.

"Is this your first kiss?" Taehyung whispers after a moment. He's close to hovering over Jungkook now. One hand on his jaw, other on his hip.

"Am I such a bad kisser?" Jungkook juts his lips out, but Taehyung quickly kisses his pout away.

"No, bunny. I'm just wondering."

"Considering you said you were doing new things since you moved here..."

Jungkook laughs. "It's my first kiss with a tiger," he informs Taehyung.

It makes Taehyung smile dumbly. "I hope you don't kiss another tiger." He growls playfully against Jungkook's neck when he says.

Jungkook is not scared, he's only smitten.

the end

uhhhhh thank you for liking these soft babies. at first, not many people were reading but by the end of it, I was so happy to see so many readers rooting for them!!!