Jimin laid in the fetal position with tears dripping on his pillow. He’d been that way for almost two days, refusing to eat, refusing to talk, refusing to do anything but wallow in his guilt. Jeongguk never left his side. He laid cuddled behind him, kissing his neck and rubbing his back. Even applying ice to his bruised rib. Although Jeongguk’s face was black and blue, Jimin’s injuries were all internal, limiting his mobility. But his injuries were minor, nothing that wouldn’t heal in a few days. It was his broken heart that Jeongguk didn’t know how to mend. 

There was a knock on the door, despite their prominently displayed ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign. Room service knew to knock when they had food. The server left their meal on the rolling tray and then hustled away before they opened the door. 

Jeongguk grimaced as he pulled himself out of bed. Every muscle in his body hurt from the attack two days earlier. He painfully shuffled to the door and rolled the tray of food inside. There wasn’t much;  bottled water, baked chicken, a few potatoes and salad. Jimin wasn’t the only one who didn’t have much of an appetite.

Seeing Jimin like that, depressed and despondent, made Jeongguk feel just as hapless. It was if they shared the same emotional arc, the same fears, the same heart. He felt irrationally bonded with the man that he’d known for a little over a month. But, he wasn’t afraid of the feeling, nor was he ashamed of how quickly it developed. Sometimes things were just - right. Right place, right time, right person; Jimin felt like all of the above. 

Jeongguk rolled the tray over to the bed. At first he thought Jimin was sleeping, but upon closer inspection, his eyes were wide open. He stared straight ahead, lost in his own thoughts.

For the umpteenth time, he tried to cajole Jimin to eat, “Get up. You’re going to eat now. You’re already thin. I can’t allow you to get any smaller. Eat.”

“Not hungry,” Jimin didn’t move. 

“Eat.”

However his eyes did follow Jeongguk as he walked around the room. He wasn’t too far gone where he couldn’t recognize his beauty or to appreciate his shapely silhouette. In his mind he wished that things were different. He wished that he could fully enjoy and embrace the care and attention that the beautiful man was giving him. He wished he could wax poetic about the potential of falling in love, or asking him to date exclusively, or just fucking until sunrise. But he couldn’t do any of that, not at length, because his life was too fucked up and his problems were too vast to feel anything but failure. 

“I said I’m not hun…,” a perfectly cubed piece of flavorful baked chicken was shoved into his mouth. He sat up quickly to chew so that he didn’t choke. “I said I’m not hungry,” he said as his lips smacked.

“Tired of your bullshit. You’re going to eat. Not dying on my watch,” Jeongguk shoved another perfectly cut piece of chicken into Jimin’s mouth. He kissed him on the nose and then wiped the corner of his mouth with a napkin, “Have some potatoes,” he shoved them into Jimin’s mouth as soon as he was sure that all of the chicken had been swallowed.

“This is assault,” Jimin tried to be serious, but of course he broke into laughter. “You’re such a wholesome asshole. Normal people would have let me starve to death and left me the hell alone,” Jimin snickered. He pouted and folded his arms. Then slowly opened his mouth for another bite.

“That’s more like it. It’s really good isn’t it?” Jeongguk ate too. 

They were both much hungrier than either wanted to admit. “Is that salad?” Jimin asked nonchalantly as if he didn’t care.

“And ranch dressing. There’s also clear stuff, some kind of vinaigrette. That looks too healthy. I’ll take the ranch.”

“I kinda want ranch too.”

Jeongguk smiled. “Thank you for eating.”

“I didn’t want to, you forced me. Assault with a…a…chicken.”

“Arrest me,” Jeongguk rolled his eyes and fed Jimin more chicken. He then placed the entire salad in Jimin’s lap.

They sat up in the bed, neither in good enough shape to really move around. They didn’t speak either because talking would inevitably mean recounting what had happened. Silence was better.

“Any dessert?” Jimin smiled as he finished the last bit of his salad and potatoes.

“No. But whatever your heart’s desire, I can have it here within twenty minutes. The power of room service,” Jeongguk leaned in and tried to kiss Jimin, but Jimin pulled away. 

The elder glared through the window, avoiding Jeongguk’s eyes. “You have to go home. This is over. There is no plan B. There is no other option. There is only the end. And this is the end. You did everything that you promised you would do. You won every single penny possible. You’ve stayed by my side despite all of the bullshit that I put you through. I would be a filthy maniacal self-absorbed tyrant if I asked you to stay another minute. Go home, Jk. Fix your relationship with your brother. Hug your mom. Curse out your dad. Live your own life. You’re done here,” Jimin said honestly.

“There has to be another tournament. This is Vegas, people play poker every day…,”

“...no, there isn’t. Otherwise we would be in it right now. The Bellagio tourney is only once per month but the potential for big pots is…well you saw it for yourself. No other tournament around pays out like that one. It is prestigious and pulls in all of the wealthy who are willing to bet big. The high Rollers Sweeps is only three and a half weeks away. I’m all the way down to only $400,000. I don’t have enough time to win it back. There’s no time. It took four months to win that $400,000. Our next chance to enter the Bellagio won’t be until after the Sweeps. In the meantime, we would have to cover at least 200 small pot games over the next three weeks in order to earn back the $300,000 that was stolen. Your ass can’t take that much pounding. Trust me. It’s over.” Jimin sat on the edge of the bed and held Jeongguk’s hand, “Look at your face. I did that. It’s because of me. If Tae saw this, he would kill me himself. I’m so sorry Jk. I am so sorry…and I’m tired of telling you I’m sorry. If I have to keep saying it, it means that I am definitely doing something wrong. You have to go home. You have to save yourself. If you care about me like you say you do, you’ll leave.”

“What if I don’t care about you? What if I want to stay…for my cut of the money,” Jeongguk was  needlessly combative.

“You’d be lying to both of us and that’s even worse,” Jimin sighed. He shook his head. He was just about to continue his lecture when his phone rang. He wasn’t able to get to his feet quickly so Jeongguk found his phone and handed it to him. 

Jimin looked down at the caller ID. His heart sank. “Lily!” He looked at Jeongguk with absolute terror in his eyes. “Something’s happened to grandma. Oh God, I can’t answer it. I can’t.”

“You can’t run from this Jimin. Talk to her.” Jeongguk pressed the green button on Jimn’s iPhone and handed it back to him.

“Hello.” Lily called out when she heard the phone pick up.

Jimin was hesitant to speak. His heart pounded like wild horses were kicking inside of his chest. He was struck dumb with fear. “...hello?” He finally said after a long pause.

“Jimin - hi. It’s Lily. There is someone here who is very anxious to speak with you.”

Jimin turned to look at Jeongguk, “Speak with me?”

The next voice Jimin heard was soft, frail but clear. “Jiminie, where are you? I haven’t seen you in…how long has it been?” His grandmother asked.

“G-g-grandma?” Jimin fell to the bed. He could barely breathe. It was his grandmother, the one who had been at death’s door for weeks. The one who had been unconscious and not able to speak to him. The one he thought he would never speak to again.

“It’s me. I miss you Jiminie. You used to bring me pudding and those Lindt chocolates. I miss those. I miss you,” his grandmother said sadly.

“Grandma…I-I-I’m on my way.”

“Really?”

“Really. I’ll be there by this afternoon. Stay awake. Ok? Stay awake.”

“I’m seventy-three years old and I like naps. I think you’re asking too much, but I’ll do my best.”

“Bye Grandma, I love you, I love you, I’m on my way, bye.” Jimin rushed his grandmother off of the phone. He jumped out of the bed, forgetting about his bruised ribs. He grabbed his side and fell back onto the bed. “She’s awake. It’s a miracle. She’s been unconscious for weeks. She was just moved to the ICU. But she’s strong, I mean not strong, but not dead. I have to go. I have to go.” Jimin rambled as he rushed around the room trying to gather his things. “The room is paid for. You can stay through the weekend if you want. You have my phone number. Call me, call me. Don’t let this be our goodbye,” Jimin paused for a moment to give Jeongguk a kiss. He wanted so much for the kiss to be long and passionate, but he didn’t have time. He had to get to his grandmother. There was no guarantee that she wouldn’t fall unconscious again. He had to see her while she was still awake.”

Jeongguk stood still. His mind was racing again. He began packing too. “Ok. Ok, this is happening.”

“Wait,” Jimin paused, “what are you doing?”

“I’m packing so we can drive back to LA. It’s time to see Grandma.”

“We?”

“We. I promised that I would go with you to meet her. I’m keeping my promise.”

Jimin’s eyes moved steadily back and forth over Jeongguk’s face. The creases in his mouth softened, his cheeks filled with color, his eyes grew glassy and his eyebrows crinkled. There was a slight parting of his lips as he shook his head. It was a look of amazement, a look of deep appreciation, a look of love. He stood there, watching Jeongguk pack for their roadtrip. He didn’t know how to process him - a person who could be that kind. It was Jeongguk’s voice that stirred him back to reality.

“Come on. Let’s get on the road before traffic gets too bad. Let’s gooooo,” Jeongguk said as he grabbed snacks and sodas from the hotel refrigerator. 

***

They arrived at Hollywood Medical Center around 7:30 pm that same evening. Jimin and Jeongguk held hands as they walked through the hallway towards his grandmother’s room. She was in the ICU. Even though only two visitors were allowed at a time, Jimin pulled  Jeongguk into the room with him. Technically Lily was his nurse, so she didn’t count. 

Jimin’s grandmother, Park Pil-Seong, sat up in the bed with Lily sitting across from her. They appeared to be playing a card game. 

“Poker?” Jeongguk asked.

“Yea, she taught me everything I know,” Jimin said as he burst through the door. “Grandma!” Jimin’s eyes filled with tears, but it was a happy occasion so he stubbornly refused to cry. 

“Jimin, you made it,” Lily said as she smiled lovingly at him. Lily was a fifty-five year old critical care nurse. She had been hired part-time by Jimin to care for his grandmother during her health crisis while he was away in Vegas.

“Thank you for calling me. Grandma, how are you? How are you feeling?”

“Like shit. I’m sick, Jiminie.”

“I know. You’re really sick, but you’re a fighter. I’ve been so worried. Every time I called, you were sleeping or unconscious.” Jimin hugged her, resting his face on her shoulder. “Grandma…I thought you were…going to leave us.”

“Leave you? Where would I go? You know how many tubes they have stuck up my ass…,”

“...Grandma. I mean…die. I thought you were dying…,” Jimin admitted painfully.

“I am.”

“No don’t say that…,”

“... and so are you. We both are. Everybody’s marching towards death, it’s part of living. Curious to know which of us will get there first though because you’re walking like an eighty year old man. What’s wrong with you? Are you hurt? Is something wrong with your back?”

“Don’t worry about that, please. Just focus on you,” Jimin smiled and kissed her soft cheek.

“Did you bring my chocolate?”

“Uh, no grandma. You’re not really supposed to have that,” Jimin explained.

“I’m not supposed to have weed either, but Lily gives me a few hits every Friday night.”

“LILY!” Jimin was aghast. He glared at Lily as she folded towels in the corner.

She defended herself - sort of, “It’s medicinal. The doctor says it helps with pain. It’s all perfectly legal.”

Pil-Seong whispered, “Ahh she’s lying. I’ve never been in any pain. My heart is crappy, but I’m not in any pain. The stuff she gives me is not from no doctor. She gives me the good stuff.”

“GRANDMA!” Jimin was outdone. He was strictly opposed to banter about illegal drugs.

Jeongguk guffawed and leaned over to slap his knee. He laughed so hard that tears were falling down his eyes. It was at that moment that Pil-Seong noticed him.

“Oh. You have a guest with you.” She sat up straight and quickly braided her long gray hair into a single braid. She pinched her cheeks to look more presentable and then checked her breath against her palm. “Hello.” She wiped her hand on her bedsheet and then extended it to Jeongguk. “I’m Pil-Seong, Jimin’s grandmother. And you are?”

“Jeon Jeongguk,” Jeongguk gave a proper bow and shook Pil-Seong’s hand. “I’m a-a friend of Jimin’s.”

“Must be a close friend. He doesn’t bring people home to meet his grandmother unless they’re very, very important to him. Think it’s happened about three times in the thirty-one years that I’ve known him,” Pil-Seong said. She looked at Jimin and then back at Jeongguk. Then she looked at Jimin and back at Jeongguk. Then she looked at Jimin and slowly turned back to Jeongguk. There, her eyes locked, “Oooooh. I see.”

Jimin bristled, “You see? What do you mean you see? See what?”

Pil-Seong smiled delicately, “Nice to meet you Jeongguk. It’s very kind of you to visit me.”

“Jimin never told me his grandmother was so beautiful,” Jeongguk flirted.

“Oh stop. Get out of here with that,” Pil-Seong giggled.

“It’s true. I’m very happy to see you doing better. Jimin has been very worried about you,” Jeongguk said.

“How long have you two known each other?” Pil-Seong asked as she watched the two of them attempt to temper their fondness for each other.

“About a month,” Jeongguk advised.

“He’s very special to me, grandma. He’s…well…I’ve been through a rough few weeks and he’s been right by my side. Saved my life twice.”

“Saved your life? What do you mean saved your life? Jimin, what the hell is going on here?”

“I told you…it’s nothing to worry about,” Jimin argued.

“Lily, Jeongguk, can you allow me to talk to Jimin alone for a few minutes?” Pil-Seong requested.

“Sure.”

“Absolutely. Nice meeting you Mrs. Park. Feel better soon. I’ll be in the lobby if you need me, Jimin,” Jeongguk said as he exited the hospital room.

As soon as Jeongguk and Lily left, Pil- Seong turned towards Jimin, “Don’t lie to me. Where have you been? Why are you injured?”

“I’ve been working. Trying to earn money for your surgeries. You’re sick grandma. You need several surgeries to help you get healthy again.”

“I know exactly what’s wrong with me. You don’t have to remind me,” Pil-Seong looked defeated.

Jimin examined her face. She was so small, much smaller than he remembered from his last visit. Her face was sunken and her hands were covered in folded loose skin. He could see the illness slowly over taking her. 

“I’m going to help you get better. I just need a few more dollars and then I’ll be able to pay for everything. I won’t stop until we get you better,” Jimin promised.

“Jiminie?”

Jimin didn’t like the tone in his grandmother’s voice, “Yes, Grandma?”

“Did it ever occur to you that you can’t save me? That maybe…it’s too late.”

“No. It’s not too late. I was able to get you new medication and look how well it’s working. Now all we need is the surgery and you’ll be good as new. So no…no.”

“Let me go. Stop trying to be a martyr. You’re too young to spend your life trying to save an old woman. You should be spending time with your boyfriend.”

“Boyfriend. Why would you call him that?” Jimin smiled.

“Oh…is that not what he is? Someone who saved your life and refused to leave your side? Someone who came to visit your sick old grandmother in the hospital? Someone who looked at you as if you hung the moon? Is that not a…boyfriend?”

“No, that’s not what he is,” Jimin explained.

“You’re glowing Jiminie. And behind his bruised face, he is too.”

“Grandma, you’re my only focus right now.”

“Answer my question Jimin. Where have you been? What kind of work have you been doing that will earn two million dollars to pay for all of my health care?”

“Poker.” Jimin smiled proudly.

“Poker?”

“Poker. And I’m so close, so close. In less than four months, I’ve won over seven-hundred thousand dollars.

“Seven…? You’ve done that well? In such a short amount of time?”

“Yep.”

“That’s enough to…oh my God. You’re trying to get into the Caesar’s Palace High Rollers Sweeps, aren’t you? That’s the minimum fee to play.”

“Yes. And I had it, grandma. I had it. But…a few days ago we were ambushed and robbed. Me and Jk were both beat up pretty badly. As you can see from his face and my walk. Now I’m back at square one and I don’t know what to do.”

“Beat up? You were carrying that much cash around?” Pil-seong used her tiny fist to punch Jimin hard in the arm.

“Ouch, dammit grandma.”

“You’re lucky I didn’t put you over my knee and spank you.” Pil-Seong used her tiny hand to gently rub the spot where she had punched Jimin. “How badly were you hurt in the attack? And tell me the truth. You look like you can barely stand up straight.”

“It’s not that bad. Thank God Jeongguk was there. We were able to fight them off and save ourselves, but they still managed to get the money.” Jimin decided to skip the part about a gun being placed to his head. “We got out of it with a few bruises. The doctor checked us out and gave us both clean bills of health. We just have to lay low and take it easy for a while. And I have my reasons for keeping my earnings in cash.”

“Whatever your reasons, you have to be more careful. I’m starting to like this Jeongguk. I’m a fan.” Pil-Seong grinned. “Now tell me what’s your plan to get the money back?”

Jimin looked away, ashamed, “I don’t have one. Like I said, I’m out of ideas.”

“I’ll tell you what to do. Ignore every damn thing I said about giving up. Jiminie, if you can get into that poker tournament, you will win. There’s no doubt in my mind.”

“Yes, I will win. But I don’t have the entry fee. I can’t cover it. There’s also…another problem.” Jimin decided to be honest, “I’ve been banned from all poker tournaments in the state of Nevada. That’s why I suddenly have a partner.”

“Jeongguk?”

“Yes.”

“Why were you banned?”

“For winning. You know how Vegas operates. But I never thought anything I was doing would cause problems,” Jimin said with frustration. “You taught me very well Grandma. There are not many who can beat me. I even picked up your ability to read bluffers. I’m pretty badass, just like you,” Jimin kissed his grandmother’s hand.

“You’re better than I ever was. You put in the work to learn the game strategically. The biggest pot that I ever won was $150,000.”

“That was back in 1989, Grandma. They hardly even allowed women to play back then,” Jimin explained.

“You’re right.” Pil-Seong gave it some thought, “I was a big fucking deal, wasn’t I?” she laughed.

“A big fucking deal,” Jimin gave her a high-five.

She continued, “Jeongguk huh? Seems like a nice boy, but…do you trust him that much?”

“With my life. Which he saved twice by the way,” Jimin repeated again.

“Tell me about the second time,” Pil-Seong smiled warmly. She could see love pouring out of every visible orifice on Jimin’s body. Her grandson was indeed smitten.

Jimin stayed focused, “There are some Pit bosses who aren’t too happy with me and they tried to run me out of town. They got a little rough with me, but Jk…well…I’m still here and it’s all because of him.”

Pil-Seong looked lovingly at her grandson. She was very pleased that Jimin had someone like Jeongguk in his life. It gave her a great sense of peace, just as Jimin knew it would. “So he’s playing on your behalf?”

“Trained him. Taught him everything I know.” Jimin felt it was best to skip the whole ‘vibrator cheating scam’ in the best interest of his grandmother’s ailing heart.

“This is a crazy plan, but you can win. Don’t quit.”

“I don’t have the money to enter the tournament,” Jimin reminded her.

“Borrow it,” Pil-Seong said firmly.

“From who? Who’s going to give me three-hundred thousand dollars?”

“Not one person…many. It’s called crowdfunding. Reach out to everyone you know for help and make them a deal - double their investment. I’ll start. I have seventy-five dollars in my purse. You can have all of it. Go find the rest, Jiminie. Go.” 

“Grandma, you’re being ridiculous. I don’t know anyone with that kind of money.”

“How do you know? You haven’t even tried. Try Jimin. But I need you to know something.”

“Yes?”

“If this fails and doesn’t work out, I will go to my grave knowing that you fought with me until my last breath. I’m not afraid to die Jimin. Although I would like to live long enough to see what happens with you and the guy waiting in the lobby who’s not your boyfriend. A wedding would be nice too. But I’m not greedy. Jimin, if God says it’s my time, it’s my time. You have to accept that. Do you understand?”

“It’s not your time.”

“You’re idealistic, just like your father. Go back to Vegas and kick everybody’s ass. Call me everyday. And next time you come to visit, don’t march your ass in here without my chocolates. And bring Jeongguk too.”

“Bossy.”

“I’ve earned it. I’m old.” Pil-Seong said sternly to her grandson. She reached her thin arms out and gave Jimin a hug. “I’m tired now Jiminie. I need to rest. Promise me you’ll call.”

“I promise. I promise. And I also promise…to save your life.”

***

Something about his conversation with his grandmother recentered Jimin. Although he had no idea how he was going to collect $300,000 in three weeks, he had no doubt in his mind that he would do it. Jimin slowly walked away from his grandmother’s hospital room, looking back several times as he thought about her words. He found Jeongguk lingering in the lobby.

Jeongguk looked up and saw Jimin walking towards him. He grabbed both of Jimin’s hands and pulled him close, “How is she?”

“She’s…incredible? The only word that I can think of right now,” Jimin replied.

“Agreed. Your weed smoking grandma is awesome. This is the kind of shit that I signed up for,” Jeongguk said seriously. “But I mean how is she feeling?”

“She’s stable, but that won’t last for long. Nothing has changed, other than the medication making her feel a bit better. She’s still in danger. But…,” Jimin pulled Jeongguk to the set of chairs behind them and sat them both down, “she suggested an idea.”

“...what did she suggest?”

“She told me to earn the entry fee for the poker championship some other way.”

“How?”

“Crowdfunding. Isn’t that ridiculous? Like I know anyone who has that kind of money.”

“Jimin, that’s not a bad idea. Crowdfunding is never about two or three people giving you money. It’s about tens, hundreds, thousands giving what they can.”

“I don’t have time to beg thousands of people for twenty-dollars each. It’s just not feasible.”

Jeongguk stood to his feet and began walking around the room in circles. He was thinking. His mind latched on to an idea. “You’re right. But maybe we don’t need thousands in this instance. Maybe we need just a strategic few.”

“Strategic few? What does that mean?”

Jeongguk suddenly took off sprinting, pulling Jimin behind him. Jimin grimaced in pain. “Hey, stop that hurts. I’ve got bruised ribs,” he complained, “where are we going?” 

“To see a guy,” Jeongguk quipped.

Jimin held on to his side as they left the hospital and ran across the parking lot. Every fiber of his body was sore. “What fucking guy?” 

“A guy who has powerful friends, in low places…”

***

Jimin and Jeongguk drove the three hours from North Hollywood to San Diego. Jimin had no idea where he was going, but Jeongguk guided him street by street, turn by turn. Their trip came to an end at a strip club.

Jimin read the neon sign, “Hunk-O-Mania Stripper’s Lounge. Is this…is this the place where you used to strip?”

“It sure is. Welcome to Hunk-O-Mania. Where you throw dollars and we throw dick. That’s the owner’s mission statement.” Jeongguk laughed. He was already looking forward to seeing Yoongi again. Jeongguk hadn’t seen him in three months, since his last performance on stage. “It’s mostly a club for women and gays who love swinging cocks, but we get a mixed crowd.”

Jeongguk barely recognized Hunk-O-Mania. The building had a complete overhaul with new paint, new signage, and new windows. The parking lot was so full that the Taco Bell and Jack In The Box across the street had to be used to accommodate overflow. They parked Jimin’s BMW in the reserved spot in the back. It was specifically for the sex workers who worked there but Jeongguk didn’t think anyone would mind. They went through the back door of the club to avoid walking through the showroom. Jeongguk knew it would be the fastest way to find Yoongi. 

They started in the dressing room where Jeongguk immediately ran into his nemesis Mingyu. He was sitting in the middle of a group of half-naked men all covered in body glitter. Mingyu was butt naked, manspreading in a large lounge chair. He was in the midst of a story or a joke or some other typical, attention-seeking Mingyu shit. Everyone around him was cracking up. He was definitely the star and by the looks of things, he was raking in the cash because the club looked fantastic. Yoongi clearly was back in the black with plenty of money to spare. 

Despite his disdain for the asshole, Jeongguk had to admit that Mingyu was fine as fuck. He looked wonderful, completely healed from his ski accident. Jeongguk felt a small tinge of jealousy but he tried not to let it show. He watched Jimin’s eyes round as he saw all of the attractive men sitting in the dressing room. 

“Jeon? What the fuck are you doing here? There’s no openings for amateurs,” Mingyu stood to his feet and his dick practically dragged along the ground. He was hung like a horse - which was one of the reasons he was so popular. The other men in the dressing room laughed and gave each other high-fives.

Jeongguk stepped in front of Jimin, purposely obstructing his view. He wasn’t comfortable with Jimin seeing all of what Mingyu had to offer. After all, he and Jimin were fuck buddies and that status meant something.  Jimin was not free to ogle other naked men as far as he was concerned. He didn’t want Jimin to compare him to Mingyu, yet his insecurity told him that was exactly what Jimin was going to do. 

“Shut the fuck up Ming, where’s Yoongi?”

If there was a single trait that Jimin considered a superpower, it was his ability to read people and situations within seconds. And, it was apparent the minute that Jeongguk faced off with the larger man that they were in a territory war.  Jeongguk immediately went into alpha mode while facing the other alpha; the very attractive one with the ten inch dick. At least it was ten inches by Jimin’s best estimate. His name was Mingyu and he strutted his beautiful body around like a peacock. Jimin got bad vibes from him immediately. He was a nasty, arrogant, asshole and Jimin inexplicably hated him just as much as Jeongguk did. Once again their emotional arcs curved in the same direction. 

If Jeongguk and Mingyu had been two wolves, they would have locked fangs in each other’s necks and fought to the death. Their interaction was just that intense. Jimin scanned the room like he scanned a poker table. Within a blink of an eye, he knew everything about everyone in that vanilla lube scented dressing room. He recounted the facts in his head. Two of the men in the room were completely naked. Another two were wearing bikini briefs. And the last of them had some kind of plushy giraffe head covering his cock. Based on the ease with which they sat partially nude, he deduced they were all strippers. Whatever the vibe was between Jeongguk and Mingyu, it bubbled up Jeongguk’s insecurity; something that Jimin had never seen in him before. 

Jimin was very careful with his eyes and very careful with his reactions. To keep the peace and to make sure that Jeongguk felt secure, he coiled behind him, keeping his eyes trained on Jeongguk’s back. He pretended not to see anything, not to know anything and not to hear anything. With a slight lean into Jeongguk’s back and a gentle kiss on the side of his neck, he made his preferences known. His hand slid around Jeongguk’s waist and he held him there so that Mingyu could tell that he was embracing him. It was the perfect reinforcement that his baby alpha needed to stand his ground.

Jeongguk could feel Jimin’s cuddling. Mingyu could see it too. Jeongguk smirked and his back straightened just slightly. He was very confident having a man like Jimin on his arms. He casually held Jimin’s hand to drive the point home that he and Jimin had a ‘thing’.

Mingyu stared over Jeongguk’s shoulder at Jimin. After all, the chiseled-face Greek God with the feathery dark hair and enchanting eyes, was quite attractive. And he clung to Jeongguk like he was being very well fucked by him. There was intrigue in Mingyu’s face as he wondered what the two meant to each other. Jeongguk had never mentioned having a boyfriend. And the guy behind him had never come to any of Jeongguk’s shows.

Jeongguk snapped his fingers in Mingyu’s direction, “Hey. Pay attention, asshole. Hello…do you know where Yoongi is?”

“Yea, he’s in his new office. Down the hall to your right.” Mingyu stood. 

He walked a few steps forward to show off his naked body before running his fingers along his cock as if he needed to adjust himself so he could walk. He wanted Jimin’s attention. To his chagrin, Jimin never batted an eye in his direction. Jimin kept his eyes on Jeongguk, even giving his cheek a kiss as they left the room. Only one alpha was going to be victorious as far as Jimin was concerned. 

As Jeongguk and Jimin walked further into the underbelly of the club, they could hear the bass from the stage booming. It vibrated so hard that it shook the walls. The club had undergone a complete renovation. Jeongguk was very happy for Yoongi because it meant that he was doing well. After what seemed like forever, they finally reached the door to Yoongi’s office. Jeongguk ran his knuckles across the door with a knock.

“Come back later,” Yoongi yelled.

“I can’t. Yoon, it’s me, Jk. It’s important,” Jeongguk pleaded his case.

“Jk?” He could hear the lift in Yoongi’s voice and a small cacophony of noise as chairs slid across the floor. Yoongi immediately opened the door. He had a cigarette behind his ear and a fancy Hawaiian shirt with pineapples and palm trees all over. The shirt was horrendous but Yoongi looked incredible. His hair was longer but still artificially wet with a combination of mousse and hairspray. He was a healthy weight, his skin looked great, and he was happy. As soon as the door sprung open, he hoisted himself into Jk’s arms and greeted him with a hug. “JK! What are you doing here man? Where the hell have you been? How was Vegas? Did you win big?”

“I sure did,” Jeongguk said as he looked at Jimin.

Yoongi noticed Jimin as well, “Well hellooooooo. What do we have here?” He smiled devilishly at Jimin and punched Jeongguk playfully in the shoulder.

“I’ll explain later. For right now, may I come in? I really, really need to talk to you. It’s urgent.”

‘Sure. Sure, come in.”

Jeongguk admired Yoongi’s new office. There was a leather couch, a couple of velvet chairs, a full bar, wide screen television, and a woman. A beautiful woman with long purple hair and a familiar smile. Jeongguk was sure that he knew her.

“Am I interrupting?” Jeongguk said as he surveyed the woman. She was stunning. Her figure was an hourglass and she was at least two inches taller than Yoongi. She was dressed fancy, not the typical strip club flare; a short, skin tight purple dress with six inch stilettos and full face of glam make-up. 

“Yes, kid you are...interrupting.”

Before Jeongguk could remember where he had seen her, she addressed him.

“Mr. Nasty! Oh this is a treat. Don’t tell me you’re doing a show tonight. If I had known, I would have called the girls down here to come and see you.”

“What? You would blow off our date just to watch this guy?” Yoongi objected.

“We can go to dinner anytime. But it’s not everyday that Mr. Nasty hits the stage,” Crystal teased.

“That’s very kind. Uhh…I’m sorry…do I know you?” Jeongguk asked as he extended his hand for a handshake.

“You don’t remember me? I’m Crystal. Me and my girls were here the night you made your stripping debut. We’re the group of lady truck drivers who were with Tae. Remember, the night he ran up on stage and covered your cock? We’ve been friends with Tae ever since.”

“Jesus! That was a true story? I thought you were just fucking around,” Jimin couldn’t contain his laughter. The thought of Tae dragging Jeongguk naked from the stage was just too hilarious. He leaned over Yoongi’s desk and laughed quietly.

Crystal continued, “We visited every Friday night to see you before Magnum came back.”

“Magnum? Who’s Magnum?” Jimin asked.

“The asshole in the dressing room. Mingyu,” Jeongguk explained.

“He calls himself Magnum? What a fuck-ass,” Jimin rolled his eyes, further reinforcing Jeongguk’s dominance over the rival stripper.

Yoongi interrupted the chatter, “Crystal and I are on a date. We’re getting to know each other,” Yoongi winked. Crystal winked back. 

“I thought you looked familiar. It’s good to see you again, you know…with you not seeing quite as much of me.”

“Kid what is it? You’re interrupting my date.”

Jeongguk wasn’t sure if he should speak in front of Crystal or not, but he didn’t have time to fuck around so he just said it, “I need some money,” he blurted.

“Money… money as in, you want a gig?”

“No. Nothing like that. I need money…real money. Alot of it,” Jeongguk glanced at Jimin. “I wouldn’t ask you if I wasn’t desperate. You have connections so I was hoping that you could help me…,”

“...how much?” Yoongi eyed him with concern.

“Three hundred thousand dollars,” Jeongguk said with a straight face.

“THREE HUNDRED THOU…,” Yoongi caught himself and addressed Crystal immediately, “...ah baby, how about you wait for me in the showroom. I’ll meet you at the bar. Tell Bobby to give you any drink you want, my treat. I need to talk to the kid for a minute.”

“Sure Yoon. But don’t take too long, I’m ready to go to dinner,” Crystal agreed.

“Yea, yea, soon,” Yoongi pushed her through the door.

“Bye Crystal,” Jeongguk waved.

“Bye Mr. Nasty. Good luck finding all of that money,” she shook her head.

As soon as Crystal was gone, Yoongi threw his hands up and berated Jeongguk, “What kind of trouble are you in? I assume that’s why your face looks like a punching bag?”

“Trouble? Why do you  think I’m in trouble?” Jeongguk shrugged.

“You’ve been in Vegas for weeks. I haven’t seen you around. There’s a replacement driver who can’t fucking deliver the packages without dropping them and denting the boxes. I knew something was up with you. You’re in debt? Aren’t you? Is it bad? Have they put a hit out on you? ”

“Yoongi, once again, I should remind you. Not everyone’s past is as colorful as yours. No one is after me for money. I don’t owe anyone anything. But I do have a friend who needs help. Jimin?” Jeongguk called Jimin to step forward.

“I’m Park Jimin. I’m Jeongguk’s…friend?” Jimin’s face twisted, coming up with titles for him and Jeongguk was annoying. “He’s asking for money to help me…well my grandma to be more specific. She’s got some major medical bills and she needs special treatment. If I don’t get it for her, she’ll die,” Jimin said bluntly.

“So the money is not to gamble in Vegas?” Yoongi asked, eyes squinted with doubt.

“It’s complicated Yoongi. Can you help? I promise to pay you back,” Jeongguk interjected without giving too much detail.

“I’ll pay every penny back plus thirteen percent interest,” Jimin added.

“I know it’s a lot of money Yoon. But things are much better around here. You’ve really turned business around. If you could just help out this once. We’ll make it worth your time.”

“Kid, I’ll always owe a debt to you for the favors you did for me. The only reason this place is still in business is because of you. But three hundred thousand? I have some savings and I’ll give it all to you. But three-hundred…that’s alot of money.” Yoongi whistled and shook his head “How quickly do you need it?”

“Three weeks,” Jimin advised.

“Three weeks? Here’s what I’ll do…I’ll make some calls. Give me a couple of weeks. I know people who know people. They may be willing to help. Let me see what I can pull together,” Yoongi smiled.

“Really?” Jeongguk grabbed Yoongi and hugged him.

“Don’t get too excited. I said I’ll make some calls. That’s all I can promise.” Yoongi looked at Jimin and then back at Jeongguk and then back at Jimin and then back at Jeongguk, “Ooooh, I see.” 

“See? See what?” Jimin snarled. “Why does everyone keep saying that?”

“You two fucking?” Yoongi asked directly.

“Yes we are,” Jeongguk said proudly.

Jimin blushed. He wasn’t ready to talk about that with a stranger no matter how much money he promised to give them. He scratched the back of his neck and looked towards the ground.

“Ohhhh. I see. He’s blowing your back out. Nice. I knew you had it in you, Jk,” Yoongi punched Jeongguk in the arm again.

“So if you don’t owe any money, who beat the fuck out of you? That one is limping and your face looks like it kissed a boot,” Yoongi said harshly to Jeongguk.

“We were robbed,” Jimin explained. “That’s why we’re here asking for money. We were ambushed in a fucking parking lot.”

“Oh that’s rough. Thank God both of you are ok. Listen…I’ve got an idea. How would you like to make a quick eight grand?”

“Eight grand?” Jeongguk said with interest.

“We need a guy. One of my regulars called out. His name is Butter and he has the flu. I was just going to skip him and end the show early, but since you’re here, you may as well bring the house down. The regulars will be thrilled to see you as a surprise guest. You would go on stage right between Pussy Willow and Magnum,” Yoongi explained.

Jimin launched into laughter again, “Who the fuck has Pussy Willow as a stripper name?”

Yoongi laughed as well, “It is the most ridiculous name ever. I begged him to change it but he threatened to throw me in the ocean. Guy is 6’ 5” and built like a fucking tank. He wears a fairy costume with wings and paints his dick a different color every night. The gay crowd eats it up. Tonight he’s painting his cock purple. He’s good, great even, but not as good as your friend Jk over there. Jk really gets the dollars flowing,” Yoongi bragged.

“Yoongi, it’s been months since I danced. Besides, I’m out of practice…,” Jeongguk stalled. He wanted to take the spot. Eight grand for five minutes of work was better than their gambling gig. But he imagined that Jimin would not be too happy about watching him strip. He was wrong.

Jimin grabbed him by the shoulders and looked straight into his eyes, “For the love of all that’s holy please say yes. Watching you strip would literally fulfill every one of my teenage wet dreams.” His eyes were big and focused. He was very serious.

***

Crystal sat at the bar. She was very curious about what kind of trouble Jeongguk was in that caused him to ask Yoongi for three-hundred thousand dollars. She was worried even though she didn’t know him very well. It wasn’t everyday that someone stormed into Yoongi’s office and begged for money. If Jeongguk was in trouble, then it would definitely affect Tae. She wanted to know more, so she decided to wait until dinner to pry more information out of Yoongi. Her eyes caught a glimpse of Yoongi walking with the handsome man who arrived with Jeongguk. She wondered what was going on between all of them.

Yoongi led Jimin to a table in the front of the club. He gave him the best seat in the house, right in front of the stage. The place was packed. The renovations that he’d done to the club expanded the showroom to accommodate three hundred more people. But even with the expansion, the club was still at capacity. 

“As Jeongguk’s special guest, I’m opening a bar tab for you. Drink anything you want. I don’t have to tell you to enjoy your evening, because Jeongguk will make sure that you do.” Yoongi left and joined Crystal. They headed out for their date, leaving Jimin there to enjoy the show.

***

It was standard for Jeongguk to wear his Amazon Delivery uniform whenever he performed. But since he didn’t have it with him, he searched through the costume wardrobe to find something to wear.  The choices were all very stereotypical; a cop uniform, a Dominatrix, a doctor uniform, a construction worker. Great choices if he wanted to be one of the village people from the sixties, not so great if he wanted something fresh and modern. 

After a ten minute search he finally stumbled upon something different - something he knew Jimin would like. It was a navy blue suit with a bright red tie. The suit was two pieces with breakaway buttons in the back. He knew from experience that Jimin loved seeing him all dolled up in formal wear. It was a fresh concept that none of his regulars had ever seen before. He chose it. 

Butterflies danced around in his stomach. Not often was he ever nervous before a show, but this show was different because Jimin was there. All of the awkwardness of having his fuck buddy in the audience faded away as soon as he saw the excitement in Jimin’s face when he agreed to do it. Jeongguk was determined to give him a good show. He wasn’t the best stripper out there, but he was a crowd pleaser, typically earning the most tips behind Magnum. Dancing was where he shined.

Before getting dressed, he took a good look at himself naked. Jimin had seen him that way one-hundred times, still he wanted to look desirable, his absolute best. The first order of business was to groom his crotch and shave it clean. He also used a razor to remove unsightly stray hairs on his chest and legs. He always wanted to be baby skin smooth before hitting the stage - especially with Jimin out there. The bruises on his face were addressed with a thick coating of stage make-up. A little mascara and eyeliner and he looked good as new. 

The next thing he tended to was his hair. The short cropped look drove Jimin crazy, so he made the best of it by brushing it back away from his forehead. With several lubed pumps of his cock, he hardened it and then slid it into the sheath of the elephant shaped dick cover attached to a thong.  Lastly, he slipped into the navy blue suit and then popped on the red tie. With that, Jeongguk the banker was ready for the stage. 

There was a new music choice for him to dance too. It was slightly more seductive and allowed him to do more than just grind on the floor. The club DJ had it queued up, Rainism. It was show time and he was more than ready to be Jimin’s bad boy.  

Jeongguk walked to the bottom of the stairs and waited for the crew to finish setting up his stage. He didn’t have much planned but he did want to do a little skit before the clothes started dropping. He borrowed an empty briefcase that he found in the wardrobe closet and held it by his side. In his mind, he was role playing as a banker, a man who had all of the money that Jimin needed. It was his fantasy and he planned to bring it to life. 

He was the act just before Mingyu so the ladies were either going to love him for warming them up or they were going to shout him down and boo him off of the stage. He didn’t care because he only had eyes for one man. From behind the curtain, he could see Jimin sitting impishly in the front row, eyes glowing in the darkness. He sipped on a drink, something with hard liquor no doubt, as he ran his fingers through his feathery hair. In Jeongguk’s mind, he looked delectable. 

The house lights went down, leaving the entire showroom cloaked in darkness. The drawing of the lights was the cue that he had worked out with the DJ. Once the lights were cut, Jeongguk ran quietly up the stairs and took a seat at the small table that had been placed on the stage. His shadow was barely visible as he got into position. Even in the darkness he could feel the vastness of the crowd. The place was absolutely packed. An electric hum of anticipation buzzed from the bodies around him. 

Jeongguk sat on stage perfectly still while the announcer did his thing, “Tonight, Hunk-O-Mania would like to welcome a very special guest. It’s been months since this one graced our stage. But tonight he’s back for one night only to bless you with an explosion of filthy, nasty sexappeal as only he can give it to you. Please join me in welcoming, Mr. Nasteeeee!”

The cat calls from the drunk women started immediately. He signaled the DJ that he was ready to begin. 

On the first drop of the beat, a single spotlight hit him. It was the only light in the entire club. He was there, legs crossed, reading a newspaper, acting oblivious to the screams and hoots from the audience. Women were literally fainting at the end of the stage. He had a reputation as a fun-loving guy with a great body and a great gimmick. Everyone loved Delivery Driver Mr. Nasty. But on this evening, with his slicked back hair and full suit, he became every woman’s fantasy. He oozed sexappeal and commanded the room, making everyone feel naughty. Like a young Christian Grey, he glared through the audience as if he were ready to discipline them for stepping out of line. The audience salivated like hungry lions. Too bad for them that Mr. Nasty only wanted one man.

The spotlight followed him as he stood to his feet. He closed the briefcase and walked towards the end of the stage to the beat of his music. He began with a simple spin, legs extended, arms out, using the briefcase as his focal point. He did a series of body rolls and a couple more spins before he found himself on the ground. He laid on his back and thrust his hips upward rhythmically, emulating a fuck of someone who was riding him. He hoped Jimin was watching closely because he was giving him a preview of everything he planned to do to him later. He twisted and contorted, relying heavily on his ability to freestyle. His hips moved in deep circles, like he had no bones. Off came his red tie. He very eloquently threw it so that it landed on Jimin’s table. There was a smirk and a wink as he stared through Jimin with the intensity of one thousand lasers. The suit jacket came off as he rotated in circles again, arching his back and rolling his hips. And then with a single finger, he released the entire line of buttons up the front of his shirt. 

Two women tried to rush the stage but they were held back by security. Jeongguk didn’t notice them because all he could see was Jimin. It was as if Jimin was the only person in the room. To the left of Jeongguk, layers of money were beginning to pile up on the stage as the ladies threw their life savings at him all in anticipation of seeing more of his glistening skin. 

Jeongguk ripped off his shirt. He threw it into the crowd and then dropped the briefcase on the ground. He crawled over the top of it and then began to grind into it. There was nothing wholesome about what he did to that briefcase. He humped the surface of the suitcase long enough for his cock to get hard and when it did, he was ready. Standing to his feet, he immediately tugged at the breakaway pants. The crowd went crazy when they saw his cock grow inside of the elephant’s trunk, bringing it to life. And then Jeongguk once again found his mark. Falling to his knees he crawled forward to the beat of the music, wearing nothing but his cock cover and thong. But he didn’t just stop at the end of the stage. Instead, he jumped off of the edge and walked straight towards Jimin. The spotlight followed him through the crowd as he came to a stop right in front of Jimin’s table. 

Jimin never broke a smile. He simply held out five one-hundred dollar bills and placed them in the waistband of Jeongguk’s thong. And then it began, the public display that both of them had secretly been waiting for. Jeongguk’s voyeurism kink was triggered again as he walked around Jimin’s chair. He didn’t touch him, he just strutted around him, oil slicked body glowing under the spotlight. Each circle around Jimin’s chair was slower and slower until Jeongguk eventually stopped. He bit his thin bottom lip, while rubbing his own nipples until they hardened. They faced each other for a few heart pounding seconds, knowing that everyone in the room was watching them and being turned on by their seedy interaction.

Jimin covered his dick with both of his hands, in an attempt to settle it down. He didn’t want to cum in front of all of those people but he knew that Jeongguk’s assault was just beginning. 

Jeongguk straddled Jimin’s lap. With a gentle rotation, he gyrated his hips causing his extended cock to bounce against Jimin’s stomach. The rules said no touching. Meaning - Jeongguk could touch Jimin all he wanted, but Jimin was not allowed to touch him back. And that made Jeongguk’s tease even more sadistic. He grinded his hips against Jimin’s thighs, while wrapping his long beautiful fingers around his neck. He loved Jimin’s neck, it was his favorite part of his body.  

With every muscle carefully orchestrated, he body rolled in time with the music. Very purposely, he gyrated against Jimin’s crotch, harder and harder until he could feel Jimin’s stiffness fighting back against him. 

He stood up quite abruptly and turned his back to Jimin. With a simple flex of his hips, he leaned all the way forward and grabbed his ankles, forcing a full view of his oily, thong covered ass into Jimin’s face. He pulsated his thighs, causing the fleshiness of his ass to jiggle. He did a full squat, legs spread wide and then he pushed ripples down his back, activating all of his muscles. Each portion of his body found a different beat of the music, bringing it to life. 

Once again he stood straight up, still presenting for Jimin like the baby Alpha he was. He stared out at the massive crowd that surrounded him. They screamed his name, begging him to give them more. But there was only one he wanted to please. With a cadence that pushed everyone to the edge, he rolled his thong down his long legs, stopping at his lower thighs. He wore a look of innocence as if revealing his hard cock was a complete accident. Instead of pulling the thong back up, he covered himself with his hand, hiding the bulk of his mass, while teasingly allowing small glimpses of flesh between his fingers. It was the trigger that drove the crowd crazy. Hundreds of bills flooded the stage as he fed their fantasies. He allowed the thong to stretch and pull around his thighs before snapping it back in place and covering himself once again. Every eye was glued to him. He teased them all by depriving them of the long, lubed cock they all craved to see. 

But he wasn’t done. With just his index finger, he stretched the spandex thong away from his body, once again revealing small glimpses of hard flesh beneath. With his hands lifted behind his neck, he danced in front of Jimin yet again. Tenderly, he placed Jimin’s hands along the elastic band of his thong.  Jimin was so aroused that his hands were shaking. Jeongguk looked down at him with a nod and unspoken words. And with his hand gripped over Jimin’s, together they pulled the thong down slowly, pushing it all the way to the ground. Jeongguk’s cock popped forward in all of its hard glistening glory. The crowd erupted.

Jimin couldn’t breathe. Jeongguk’s naked body was revealed for all of the audience to see. Hundreds of bills littered the stage as he toyed with the audience, fucking all of them at one time. But he wasn’t done yet. He backed up and sat in Jimin’s lap backwards so that he could still face the crowd. And there he danced some more, grinding and shaking and rolling his naked ass all over Jimin’s crotch. Flexing his thighs and contracting his ass, he gave Jimin everything. He leaned back against Jimin’s chest and relaxed the back of his head on his shoulder.  

The spotlight fully exposed the pleasure on Jimin’s face. His eyes were closed and his lips were turned towards Jeongguk’s neck. He wanted to bite him, kiss him and eat his brains right there in front of everyone. Jimin couldn’t control his own actions. The young stripper fed his soul. Especially maddening was Jeongguk’s bare shaven crotch; something Jimin had never experienced before. He slyly ran his fingertips along the smooth oily skin, circling his thumb around the cleanly shaven nuts. 

“Does it feel good?” Jeongguk whispered to a star-struck Jimin who was seconds away from having an orgasm.

Jimin said nothing, instead he held on to Jeongguk so tightly that his arms began to shake. He wanted more of him. He wanted him draped all over his body. He wanted to be swallowed.

Security stepped forward to stop Jimin from touching him, but Jeongguk waved him off. As much as he wanted to make Jimin cum in front of a crowd full of people, he knew that was not the time. He popped up and walked away, leaving Jimin shaking, reeling over what had been the best experience of his life. 

Jeongguk never even bothered to look back, because he knew what he had done, “Wholesome my ass,” he said under his breath.

The spotlight once again followed him as he climbed naked back up to the stage. Women were screaming. Men were screaming. Even the money was screaming as one hundred dollar bills rained over him. Watching Jeongguk publicly seduce a man as handsome as Jimin had driven the crowd into a frenzy and they were more than ready to reward him for feeding their fantasies. 

As Jungkook exited the stage and ran down the stairs, he ran into Mingyu who was waiting in the wings for his turn to perform.

“Ok…so maybe that was…fucking incredible,” Mingyu stubbornly admitted.

“Thanks. I warmed them up for you. Break a leg,” Jeongguk laughed as he listened to the crowd chant his name. Revenge felt…sweet.

Jeongguk ran straight for the dressing room to get changed, but he was stopped by security, “Hey, Jk. You’re not done yet. You’ve got a customer waiting in VIP.” The guard was responsible for delivering the tips to the dancers after each performance. He handed Jeongguk the briefcase full of his earnings that had been thrown on stage. He pointed him towards the VIP room. “He’s already in there?”

“Who is it?” Jeongguk laughed. He had a good idea who was waiting for him.

“The gorgeous one from the audience,” the security guard remarked. 

The VIP rooms were small rooms about the size of a closet. They were located in the back of the strip club, far away from the main showroom. Horny customers who wanted special one-on-one attention would pay exorbitant prices to have private parties with the dancers. Sex with the strippers was strictly prohibited by the state of California, but that never stopped Mingyu, which was how he made so much money. Rumor had it that if any of the ladies wanted to fuck, he was more than willing - for the right price. And, as long as Yoongi got 50% of the tips, he looked the other way and never asked questions.

 Jeongguk never made himself available for the VIP room because he didn’t care about grinding on strangers for money. But this particular VIP request from his very special customer was more of a demand. He knew all too well that Jimin was in there waiting to get his brains fucked out. 

Before heading to their assigned room, Jeongguk quietly lubed his cock again. Jimin was still sore from the robbery so he had to be gentle with him. He took the entire tube of lube just to be on the safe side. 

By the time he got to the room, Jimin was climbing the walls. Jeongguk opened the door and was immediately met with greedy, desperate pink lips.

“Fuck me, fuck me, fuck me,” Jimin growled. There was slow seductive music playing which only added to his insatiability. He was more riled up than Jeongguk had ever seen him.

Jimin tugged at his own pants and pushed them down to the ground as quickly as possible. They fell around his ankles causing him to waddle backwards as he pulled naked Jeongguk into the room. With one arm, he lifted his own shirt and held it just above his chest. No explanation, no warning, no conversation, Jimin leaned over the couch, exposing his ass to Jeongguk. He wanted to be fucked hard, right away.

Jeongguk understood Jimin’s appetite. There was a small window for him to lube him before Jimin raged. As liberally as possible, he stuffed oil covered fingers through Jimin’s hole and looped them around the rim. 

Jimin closed his eyes. He was about to explode. The fingers weren’t enough. He reached his hand between his legs and pushed Jeongguk’s hand away. He wanted to be fucked with his dick, not toyed with by his fingers. Jeongguk was the most intuitive lover that Jimin had ever experienced. He could trust him to understand him and give him what he needed without a lot of words. Jimin leaned over the couch once again and counted the seconds until the heat was stuffed into his body.

At once, he felt the sting of the tip enter him like a torpedo slicing through water. His mind glitched as the fullness parted him and surged through to his stomach. He felt himself being stretched. His voice was not his own. His hedonistic cries were filthy, uncouth and completely out of character. But it was because his inner sexual demon had been released and the demon only sought sinful pleasure. He contracted around the girth inside of him as he fought to hold his screams. His hips chased a rhythm, a slow penetrative one that clapped against his lover. Despite the pain, his back arched in an attempt to take him deeper. A simple drop of his head allowed him to stare between his own legs and watch Jeongguk’s body behind him, as he pummeled him. He gripped the pillows on the velvet couch as the dim light flickered across the crimson colored room. They cast one disfigured shadow against the wall as the clapping intensified. Jeongguk hadn’t been inside of him for five minutes before Jimin crawled away from him.

“Where are you going?” Jeongguk stirred.

“Switch positions. Fuck. It’s gonna be a hard one, ok? Ok? Fuck,” Jimin was near tears as he pushed Jeongguk onto the couch and climbed on top of him. Within seconds the new position was established and Jimin was riding Jeongguk’s dick like a bucking bull. He whimpered and pleaded at the same time, “Hold on to me. Hold on to me. Ok?”

“Ok,” Jeongguk whispered back as he kissed up and down the front of Jimin’s neck. “Cum for me, baby.”

“...its a big one…fuck…,” Jimin began to tremble. He bit down into Jeongguk’s shoulder to keep his voice quiet. His back tensed and his legs began to shake. He could hardly bounce over Jeongguk’s cock anymore because his body was no longer in his control. 

Jeongguk kept the pace by thrusting harder from beneath. He smiled and kissed Jimin’s quivering lips. He held him tightly just as he had promised. With a steady hand and a warm heart he ushered in Jimin’s orgasm while whispering, “I’ve got you. Let it all out.”

Jimin wordlessly ran his fingers through Jeongguk’s hair, tugging at the root. He hunched his shoulders over and allowed himself to release. As he quietly shuddered, the skin between their stomachs grew wet with his cum. Jimin erupted like a volcano. The messy flow of cum wouldn’t stop. It went everywhere. Cum even dripped from their nipples. Jimin was right, it was a big one.

Jeongguk was elated. He took pleasure in making Jimin feel good. It was further proof that what he felt for him was layered, complex and real. With Jimin lying limp in his lap he kissed the top of his head and caressed his back, soothing him as he came down from his orgasmic high. 

There was a knock at the door telling them to clear the room. They laughed, refusing to move an inch. It took another ten minutes for them to vacate the space. Jeongguk walked out butt naked, just as he had entered. He was confident with showing off his cum covered body. They hid nothing as they held hands walking back to the dressing room. 

Jimin finally caught his breath and had only a few words to say, “There was nothing wholesome about that…”

***

Jeongguk didn’t bother trying to visit Tae while he was in San Diego. The elder brother continued to refuse Jeongguk’s phone calls and Jeongguk refused to beg for his forgiveness. So they stood at an impasse. He spoke briefly with Jennie, just to make sure that his brother was ok, but that was as far as his efforts went. 

Jeongguk did spend time with his mother and most importantly, he introduced her to Jimin.The two spent some time alone when Lydia strategically sent Jeongguk out to run errands.

Jimin sat at their kitchen table nursing a cup of tea. Lydia sat across from him smiling politely. Jimin couldn’t help but notice how much she looked like Jeongguk.

“I see why he’s so smitten with you. You’re very attractive,” Lydia remarked.

“Thank you. I’m smitten with him as well. He’s been…a lifeline. I would have given up trying to save my grandmother a long time ago if he didn’t step in to help,” Jimin replied.

“Yea, about that,” Lydia said sternly. Jimin could sense that her mama bear was about to show, “So that we’re clear, I don’t approve of anything he’s doing to help you. My boy is sensitive and in his mind, he thinks he can save the world, especially when there is a very handsome man involved. But, Jimin, he can’t save the world. My boys have known you a little more than a month and they’ve been kidnapped, shot at, beaten and robbed. As you can imagine, that doesn’t endear me to you very much.”

“I understand. I-I-I tried to send Jeongguk home, I did. But he’s very…,”

“...stubborn,” Lydia interrupted. “That’s exactly why I won’t push him on this. You saw what happened between him and his brother when Tae tried to speak up. Jeongguk digs in even harder whenever he thinks we’re fighting him. But I’m worried about him…both of you, honestly. Because if anything happens to you, he’ll blame himself. So can you see why I’m not happy about this?”

“I do. I don’t know how to stop him. I’ve begged him one hundred times to go home and let me handle it. He won’t listen. He just won’t. How do I stop him?”

“You can’t. There are too many variables involved that play into his sensitivities; his own relationship with his grandmother, his pity for you, his attraction for you and his genuine desire to do something that matters in his life. Not to mention the excitement of being a part of something this risky and rebellious. We couldn’t stop Jeongguk if we paid him. He is in it until the end. But let me give you a little advice.”

“Please do,” Jimin responded.

“I know your type, Jimin. Before I married their father, while I was still a rookie cop, I worked in Vegas for a while. I made some good friends and met alot of good cops. I know the city well. It can be a dangerous place for people like you who think they can control their own fate. You’re finding out the hard way that controlling anything in Vegas is an illusion. The house always wins. The house…always wins,” Lydia said in reference to Jimin’s gambling. She stared directly into Jimin’s eyes to make sure that he understood her message.“Don’t get me wrong, I greatly respect what you’re trying to do for your grandmother. You’re a great grandson to risk so much to save her life. But I have little faith that you and Jeongguk can actually pull it off. I support you and I will do whatever I can to help. But Jimin, I need my son protected. I need you to give up if this plan doesn’t work.”

Jimin was quiet. He wasn’t sure what to say or how to defend himself. “I-I-I…,”

“Promise me. If this plan falls apart, you’ll get him out of harm’s way, no matter what it takes?”

“I promise,” Jimin nodded.

Jeongguk rushed through the door with thirteen large plastic bags of groceries all tangled around his arms. He was sweating, clearly nervous about what his mother may have said to Jimin while he was away.

“Everything alright?” He said as he dropped the bags on the counter. He made eye contact with Jimin, searching for any sign of trouble.

“Everything is fine. Your mother is absolutely incredible,” Jimin assured him with the smile of one thousand diamonds.

“Hi Jeonggukie. Glad you’re back. You’re just in time, have a seat. I need to talk to both of you.”

Jeongguk gave his mother a suspicious side-eye. He had absolutely no idea what she wanted to talk to both of them about. He took a seat next to Jimin and crossed his fingers underneath the table. His only hope was that she didn’t embarrass them. 

Lydia reached into a large tote bag that was covered in pink flamingo print. It was quite ugly, but she handled it gingerly as if it were a prized possession. She rustled through it and pulled free a manilla envelope which she opened and slid across the table. It landed inches away from Jimin and Jeongguk. A photograph stared up at them. It was a woman with deep set eyes, tan skin, overly large veneers, puffy fake boobs, botoxed cheeks and long black hair. It appeared to be a mugshot.

“Look familiar?” Lydia bounced her gaze between the two of them.

“No,” Jimin shook his head.

“YES!” Jeongguk gasped. Jimin turned to look at him, surprised that he recognized the plastic looking woman. Jeongguk stuttered as he searched his memory, “It’s her…the lady…shit…what’s her name…uh…uh…?”

“Diana Rodriguez,” Lydia filled in the blanks. 

“YES!”

“Diana…you mean…the lady that Jk beat in the Bellagio tournament?” After staring at the photo, Jimin recognized her too. 

“Indeed,” Lydia winked.

“Mom, why do you have a mugshot of a famous poker player?”

Lydia walked over to the refrigerator and fetched a bottle of wine. She poured herself a glass, filling it to the brim. She took her time before returning to the table. Jeongguk recognized the look on her face; his mother was in cop mode. He settled in, anxious to hear what she had to say.

She leaned back and crossed her legs, “Jimin and I had a nice talk. I was explaining to him, and you should here this too, but I was explaining to him that just when you think you have Vegas by the balls, the entire city will turn around and fuck you.”

“Mom! Language,” Jeongguk folded his arms. He loved his mother’s salty cop language, but he worried that it may offend Jimin. He covered Jimin’s ears but Jimin swatted him away. 

“Yes, I feel like I’ve been fucked by that crappy town for months now. Please, continue…,” Jimin urged.

“You two knuckleheads have been very busy kicking up dust in the sin city. You haven’t exactly gone quietly.” Lydia laughed.

“None of it was our fault,” Jeongguk interjected.

“Sure.” Lydia rolled her eyes. “I can’t even explain what went through my mind when I got the call from the hospital the other night, telling me that you two had been robbed and beaten. Needless to say, I was relieved when I finally spoke to Jeongguk and he explained what happened. Just like any mother, I went from being paralyzed with worry to being fucking pissed off. As soon as I knew you two would be ok, I went to work. I needed to know who did this to you. So, I decided to do some digging on my own. I called some old friends, made a few new ones…and let’s just say…I politely insisted that they solve this case. And I wanted it done in hours, not weeks. I guess they understood my position because within 24 hours, I had the camera footage from the parking lot of a liquor store across the street from the MGM. I watched hours and hours of footage, and guess what? Your entire attack was caught on tape. I even got a full license plate as they drove away. The attack was brutal and you’re lucky that you came away with your lives. The people who did this would have had no problem with killing you.” Lydia sipped wine to calm her nerves. 

The grainy black and white video of Jeongguk on his knees with a gun to his head flashed into her mind, causing her to shake mildly. She found her footing and continued, “Initially I thought the robbery was related to Donghyuk and that stupid ass gang of clowns that tried to kidnap Jimin. But that lead didn’t pan out. I combed through the final report and it confirmed that Donghyuk and his entire crew were killed. None of them had any family or friends or gang members left behind who would want revenge for their death. They were loners with no real ties to the community. That pushed me to dig deeper. I traced both of your steps over the previous month’s time. I pulled footage everywhere and that’s when I found it.” Lydia refilled her glass of wine. “Jeonggukie, you may have won big at that Bellagio tournament on tv, but you also made a very angry enemy.”

“Enemy? Is that where Diana comes in?” Jimin asked with large eyes.

 “Exactly. She was so angry that she set her sight on revenge. She wanted her money back. She decided to make you enemy number one. And an enemy of my son, is an enemy of mine And no one wants to be my enemy. She crossed the wrong bitch,” Lydia said with dark eyes. She took a sip of her wine and leaned closer to the guys. “No one messes with my sons.”

“So Diana was behind our robbery?” Jimin questioned.

“Yes,” Lydia nodded. “She and her brother and her husband. The brother and the husband have a long list of felonies under their belts, including attempted murder. When I say you’re lucky to be alive, I mean it. These guys are street thugs with no regard for life. From what I’ve been able to piece together, she immediately called her husband and brother after she was kicked out of the poker tournament. They arranged to meet at Bellagio. They grabbed some ski masks and trailed you back to the MGM hotel. Neither of you were alert, otherwise you would have noticed you were being followed. They parked near Jimin’s car and waited until the right time. They tried to stay out of the view of the cameras but they didn’t realize that the liquor store camera across the street was focused right on the parking lot where they attacked you.”

“So she’s been arrested for what she did to us?” Jeongguk asked hopefully.

Lydia chugged more wine, “Uh, that’s where things get complicated.”

“What do you mean?” Jeongguk asked.

“You two aren’t nearly as sophisticated as you think you are. You left a trail of evidence. Evidence that we now have to keep hidden. If I had turned over my findings to LVPD and had Diana and her crew arrested for what they did to you, it would have hit the news with both of your pictures. That would have ruined your little plan of pretending not to know each other because both of your pictures would have been plastered all over the news blogs right next to each other. Not to mention, you would have had to testify. So just like I did with Donghyuk and that whole fiasco, I had it buried. I asked the Chief of Police, an old friend of mine, to kill the investigation. And he did.”

“Wait, then why is she in custody?” Jimin asked.

“First degree murder,” Lydia smiled. “A completely unrelated crime that the Chief uncovered. Diana, her brother and her husband have been suspects in the disappearance of a rival gang member for months. It was just a matter of time before an arrest was made. Well I put a little pressure on the Chief and he was able to swear out a warrant. They have DNA, fingerprints, fibers…everything. They’re going to jail for a very long time. It all worked out because we were able to get them off of the streets right after they attacked you.”

“Murder?” Jeongguk’s mouth dropped open.

“I knew it. I knew it,” Jimin reflected. He’d realized during the robbery that the crew was dangerous.

Lydia had much, much more to say, “You two have made some mistakes. If anyone really looked closely, they could easily find evidence that you two are linked. Jeongguk says that the key to this entire plan is that no one can find out you’re working together. Well I figured it out. And if I could do it, others can too. You must be more careful going forward.”

“Ok, ok, thanks for the heads up mom. Do you think anyone else knows?”

“Honestly, I don’t think anyone has a clue. You’ve been smart in that regard because you’ve stayed out of sight since the big Bellagio win. You’ve disappeared, keep it that way. Don’t reappear until it’s time for the big tournament thingy that you two keep whining about.” Lydia moved on to more practical advice, “If you’re going to carry around such large amounts of cash, at least hire security. You’ve got to be more careful. You’re lucky those thugs who attacked you, didn’t just kill you and take the money. I’ve seen it happen.”

“Speaking of the money, did they find it? Did Diana still have it? She stole over $300,000 from us. Surely they couldn’t have hidden that much cash that quickly,” Jimin asked hopefully.

“No, they didn’t find it. That was the first thing that I asked. You’re right. The money has to pop up someplace, and soon. But since we buried the investigation into the robbery, we can’t openly search for the stolen money or question them about it. But I’ll continue to work discreetly to see if I can figure out where they hid it after the robbery,” Lydia explained.

Jimin sighed. Jeongguk gently rubbed his cheek. He pondered, “We really are big targets as long as we carry all of that cash. Why can’t we secure it in a bank?” 

“I don’t trust the Vegas licensing board. Until we’re ready to cash out for the last time, I have to keep the money hidden. They will not play fair and I can’t risk them trying to seize my assets. I’ve seen them do it,” Jimin explained.

“Tomorrow we’ll open an account. You can put it in my name and we can hide the money there. No one knows who I am. You’ll be the only one who has access. We’ll just keep it in my name to cover our tracks.”

“That’s a good idea. If we win big, as I hope we will, we’ll need someplace to stash it electronically,” Jimin agreed.

Lydia continued, “Your biggest vulnerability right now is someone stealing your money. I’ve asked the LVPD to help you with a little extra security on the day of the tournament. Jimin, I know Vegas. If these pit bosses are harassing you, my gut tells me that they aren’t going to allow you to walk back into their casino without threatening you. Jeongguk told me they’ve been trying to intimidate you to get you to leave town. That’s against the law and they can’t do that. Having my cop buddies serve as security will help keep you safe on the big day. They know how to deal with casinos.”

“Mrs. Jeon, you…you would seriously do that for me?” Jimin asked. He was starting to understand where Jeongguk inherited his kindness.

“It’s already done. I can’t help you two win, but I can help keep you safe. I want this to work, Jimin. I really do.”

“Mom, thank you,” Jeongguk raced to his mother and scooped her into his arms. He hugged her tightly and swung her around the kitchen. 

“PUT ME DOWN BOY!” Lydia beat Jeongguk on the shoulders until he placed her on her feet again.

Without thinking Jeongguk grasped both of Jimin’s hands and kissed his fingers. They smiled at each other, noses just inches apart. They laughed quietly, for reasons that only the two of them understood.

Lydia watched her son, and then watched Jimin. She again looked at her son and then Jimin. She glared at her son and walked up to him. With the sensitivity of an intuitive mother, she pressed her palm against his blushed cheek,“Oooooh, I see,” she said delicately as she kissed his forehead. Her eyes wilted and she sniffled. She glanced back at Jimin, “I see, I see. It all makes sense now.”

“YOU SEE WHAT?” Jimin pressed with a bit of agitation. “If one more person says that…,”

“Calm down Jiminie. I think mom is just…giving us her approval.”

***

After five much needed days of visiting with Jimin’s grandmother and Jeongguk’s mother, it was time for Jimin and Jeongguk to head back to Vegas. Even though the tournament wasn’t for another three weeks, they needed every minute to practice. And practice was best done far away from their families. Because what neither the Jeons or Parks knew was that Jimin and Jeongguk were operating an elaborate cheating scheme. 

Jeongguk had learned a lot but he still wasn’t trained well enough to take a win on his own. Jimin felt that they needed to sharpen their signals with new vibration sequences. If they were going to continue to cheat, they had to improve and shore up their weak spots. The stuff they pulled at their last tournament was not going to get them very far in the Caesar’s High Roller’s Tourney. 

During their drive back, Jimin recounted all of the information that Lydia had shared about the investigation into their robbery.  Jeongguk wasn’t surprised at all that his mother had pieced everything together. It was very on-brand for the retired cop in her. He was surprised, however, to learn that his mother had convinced the LVPD to help protect them. Given the pressure she had put on Jimin, he didn’t think she wanted anything to do with their scheme. 

After reflecting on their time with Mrs. Jeon, another thought came to Jimin, “Jk, does your mother know that you strip?”

Jeongguk fell against the window laughing. “I’ve never told her. And surprisingly, neither has Tae. But let’s give it some thought shall we? Within 48 hours of me being robbed, my mother launched her own investigation from two states away. She cajoled hundreds of hours of private footage, identified the robbers, tracked them down, had them arrested for first degree murder and buried all evidence that led back to us. So tell me Jimin, do you think she knows that I strip?”

Jimin fell over the steering wheel laughing, “I’m going to assume that’s a yes.”

“Agreed. I’m at a point in my life where I believe my mother knows everything and that includes my double life. She’s just too damn classy to say anything about it.”

“Do you think she knows that we’re cheating at poker?”

“I think she wants to believe that we’re doing this honestly. She believes in me and she thinks that I can do anything. If she were to take her blinders off, she would obviously see that something is suspicious. I mean there’s no way that I could become a professional poker player in two months, winning hundreds of thousands of dollars when I’ve never played before. The truth is in front of her, but she refuses to see it on a conscious level,” Jeongguk gave a rather complex answer. “But I’m sure that if she just stepped back and evaluated everything, she would figure out the truth.”

“She’s right to believe in you. You can do anything,” Jimin said softly. 

“You believe in me too?”

“More than you know.”

Being home with family and away from Vegas, had given them much needed perspective. They heeded Lydia’s warning and decided not to go back to the famous strip with all of the hotels and casinos. Instead they chose a more secluded place to watch the poker games and continue with Jeongguk’s bootcamp. A small Airbnb in Henderson Nevada, just a few miles outside of Vegas, was exactly the location they needed. It was there where they convalesced mind body and soul as they waited for word from Yoongi. Because without Yoongi’s money, nothing else mattered.

***

Immediately, they fell into their routine of practicing round after round of poker to mimic the reality of an intense tournament. 

Jimin’s mind wasn’t fully focused. He drifted in and out of the moment as he stared across the table at what had to be the most beautiful man he’d ever seen. He wanted to talk, but he didn’t know how to start. He didn’t overthink it, he just said what was on his mind, “Are we going to talk about it?” Jimin asked as he dealt Jeongguk two cards and then dealt the turn to start the first round.

“Talk about…?”

“Whatever it is that people see when they look at us together.”

“ I don’t know. No one has been able to explain it,” Jeongguk shrugged. “They see something. I could tell when it happened to mom.”

“I think I may know.”

“Do you?” Jeongguk placed his cards down and stared across the table into Jimin’s eyes. 

He took a moment, a much needed moment, to reacquaint himself with Jimin’s endearing little habits. Like, when he puckered his lips whenever he spoke vehemently about something. Or the sexy way he played with his hair, pushing it away from his face. Or the way he tilted his soft, fluffy eyebrows like little caterpillars whenever he was concerned about something. And then there was the swanlike stretching of his neck, the gesture that made Jeongguk bury his teeth into it whenever he fucked him. Jimin said words but Jeongguk didn’t hear him. He’d fallen deep into the pool of Jimin’s etherealism. 

“Hey. Did you hear me?” Jimin tapped the table to get Jeongguk’s attention.

“No.” Jeongguk shook his head shamelessly. “I was thinking about fucking you and making you cum in my arms. I was thinking about biting your nipples until they bruise. I was thinking about…,”

“...a lot of other shit other than what I was saying,” Jimin burst into laughter. He laughed to deflect Jeongguk’s naughty thoughts. “I think our families, and Yoongi, may think we’re…falling in love.”

“Falling in love? Or infatuation? The two can look very similar. We’ve had a very intense couple of months filled with shared experiences that will bond us forever. We almost died together and then we survived together. The most intense emotions that two people can share. When people go through tough shit together, it brings them closer. When two people see each other at their worst, like we have, it bonds them for life. When two people have toe curling, heart stopping sex, it connects them. None of those things necessarily mean we’re falling in love,” Jeongguk said solidly.

“So how do you know when you’re falling in love, Jk?”

“I don’t think you know until after it’s already happened,” Jeongguk looked down at his hand. He had pocket queens with a five of hearts on the turn. “Raise, twenty thousand.”

“Call,” Jimin threw his chips in. He gave careful thought to what Jeongguk was saying. If it was true that love was only recognizable after it had already happened, why was he so acutely aware of it?”

***

All was peaceful on the secluded lake. The moon sparkled over the water creating streaks that looked like firecrackers being smothered under the ripples. The boats bumped against the wooden docks, peacefully riding the waves as they crept against the shore. It was a crystal clear night where every star sparkled like a flashlight in the sky. 

The mind numbing neon lights of Vegas seemed thousands of miles away. Wood panels creaked along the interior walls of the old cabin. The smell of weathered pine wafted through each room, harkening back decades to the cabin’s birth. The moon spied through the hard glass window, with her deep craters contemplating their intertwined bodies like large eyes. The two lay secluded in their own fabricated world. It was the perfect place for them, the perfect place. 

Jeongguk ran his hands over the lump in Jimin’s lower abdomen. Watching Jimin’s stomach bulge as his cock traveled through his insides was beautiful. The multiple pillows stuffed under Jimin’s hips provided a smooth angle of attack that allowed Jeongguk to penetrate him completely; from tip to nuts. There was not a single inch of Jimin that he didn’t explore, stimulate, or own. His legs and his stomach began to throb. It was time.

Jimin’s ecstatic ramblings were not fully coherent. His brain glitched from a fuck so good that his  breathing stopped, “What if they could see me now? See what you’re doing to me; take pictures, make videos. How hard would we make them cum? The crowd, the crowd that watched us, I want them to see us…like this,” Jimin moaned as he held onto the slotted headboard with both hands. 

Jimin often thought back to their public display in the strip club. It was a defining moment for him. He fantasized about showing off, letting others watch him being fucked and pleasured. 

Jeongguk couldn’t answer his question. Instead he panted like a dog, hips rolling around and around, varying his depth inside of Jimin’s ass. Beads of sweat poured from his forehead. His short cropped hair fell messy over his doe eyes that were fixed upon Jimin’s pale exotic features.  

Jeongguk hiccuped, his panting quickened and a high squeal came from his throat, “Can I cum…inside of you?”

“And make more wholesome little Jeons? Absolutely not.” Jimin laughed. 

The severity of Jeongguk’s orgasm was intoxicating for Jimin. He felt powerful. He felt desired. And dare he say he felt - needed? Making Jeongguk beg for the privilege of flooding his walls was his strategic way of slowing Jeongguk down. He wanted him to savor the feeling, not just pump until he squirted. Jimin was no longer a one night stand, there was no need for anything to be rushed. He wanted Jeongguk to know that he wasn’t going anywhere. He belonged to him.

“P-p-please?” Jeongguk begged. 

“Only if you take me with you,” Jimin bit his lips as the temperature in his stomach began to rise. 

He could feel Jeongguk’s heavy cock drag along his prostate, stimulating it, milking it. He began a slow counter bucking against the stripper’s thrusts. His hands gripped even tighter around the slots in the headboard. He took his fucking well, absorbing every sensation. The feeling of fullness made him feel one hundred pounds heavier as the massive dick buried itself inside of him. No one could satisfy him like Jeongguk. No one.

There was a look of surprise on both their faces when Jimin’s prostate leaked his milky white fluid, sending him into a dazed, orgasmic state of confusion. He convulsed so dramatically that his eyes slammed shut. At the same time he could feel the warm explosion from Jeongguk’s tip blast against his inner walls. Their moans were quiet, meek as if they were afraid of getting caught. The euphoria of cumming together bonded them once more. It was through sex that they could see their future. When their bodies were one, everything made sense. 

***

Ever since their public display in the strip club, sex felt different. They had become insatiable for each other. What was happening between them was far more than a convenient hook up. Yet, there was no understanding of whether their increased physical interaction was a symptom of deeper feelings or something altogether different. 

The ass play with the vibrator blurred the lines between work and play even further. Jimin insisted that Jeongguk learn a new round of vibration sequences to cover his perceived gaps in communication at the poker table. But despite doing it for weeks, Jeongguk was still not desensitized to the sensation of having a vibrator up his ass. He was caught in a perpetual stage of sexual arousal and Jimin often had to step in to help alleviate it. Not that he minded. 

Not everything was about poker. Their time together in the suburbs of Vegas was meaningful, far beyond the tournaments and bright lights of the strip. Being isolated in a beautiful cabin on Railroad Lake made their poker bootcamp feel more like a honeymoon at times. There were days when they spent hours swimming in the lake, hiking, or playing video games. Sharing their life stories and making love under the crystal stars became a daily routine as well. 

Sadly however, it was also a sobering time of reflection where Jimin had to face the fact that he might not get the money that he needed to play in the last tournament. There was a real possibility that his grandmother would die. He was happy that he had Jeongguk to talk to. The man was devoid of judgment, but full of positivity and support. But above all, he was real. He didn’t lie to Jimin or give him false hope. He had the courage to have the tough conversations and speak a hopeful truth. Something he had learned when his own grandmother was dying.

 Jeongguk helped Jimin comb through his grandma’s medical bills to determine what they could pay with the four hundred thousand dollars they had. How could they make Pil-Song’s last days as comfortable as possible? Preparing for the possibility of his grandmother’s death was the mature thing to do. It was what she had asked him to do. But it was painful for him, because he was not ready to let her go.

The days ticked on as they waited to hear from Yoongi about his ability to help them find investors. Yoongi was trying his best, meeting with everyone he knew. At great risk to himself, he put his neck on the line approaching some of the seediest citizens of San Diego’s underbelly. Still ,despite his efforts, he had no good news to report. 

Another week went by and then another. With no one to swoop in and save them, they were down to only forty-eight hours before the entry fees were due for the Caesar’s Palace High Roller’s Tournament. With each hour that passed, it looked less likely that they would be able to get the money. 

Jimin was dealt another blow when he received a call from Lily. After an extended period of improvement, Jimin’s grandmother lapsed into a coma. Jimin was back on the emotional roller coaster again. The walls were caving in and defeat felt like a heartbeat away.

***

Jimin sat quietly on the bed, staring straight ahead. He had several poker chips in his hand.

Jeongguk found him there, looking despondent, “Shouldn’t we practice?” 

“For what?”

“We still have two days. Anything could happen.”

“Can we talk?” Jimin asked.

“About…?”

“It’s time for us to look forward, past this insane plan of mine. There’s something I’ve been wanting to say to you for a while now.”

“This doesn’t sound good.”

“Well, I guess that’ll be up to you.” Jimin walked Jeongguk outside to a pic-nic table behind their tiny rented cabin. 

He climbed onto the table and then laid on his back with his hands behind his head. He gazed up at the stars and the moon, and the evening clouds that floated across the sky.  Jeongguk sat next to him, nervous about what Jimin wanted to say. The moon was full, bright. She hung above them, leaning into the conversation like a close friend. Her brilliant light bounced off of their faces, illuminating the darkness, allowing them to study each other’s expressions.

So many words ran through Jimin’s mind; he wanted to say them all. But, he started with a careful few, “Almost two months ago I saw you sitting at the bar. I couldn’t take my eyes off of you. Thousands and thousands of people were in that nightclub, but you were the only one that I could see. I knew then, there was something special about you. I had to have you and…I haven’t been able to let you go since.”

“It’s not one-sided, I think you know that,” Jeongguk reassured him.

“I know. It’s time to talk about what’s next.”

“Next?” Jeongguk laid down beside Jimin. He grabbed his hand and rested their clutched fingers on his chest.

“I-I don’t want this to end. I mean…,” Jimin didn’t want to sound desperate or needy or demanding. He chose his words as carefully as possible. “I mean…I need more of you. I need you in my life.”

Jeongguk sat up on his elbow. He hovered over Jimin, staring down into his beautiful face, “Are you saying that you want to be…exclusive? You want to date?”

“I want you to be mine. All mine. Yea, I want to be exclusive.”

“You think there’s potential for a future between us?”

“I know there is. I mean if you want there to be,” Jimin was nervous about Jeongguk’s reaction. They had never explicitly talked about being a “couple”.

“You looked like an Angel to me…that night we met. I didn’t think you could be real. The moment I touched you, I could feel the energy erupt between us. I believed then and I believe now that you are somehow…my destiny. I’ve been by your side ever since because you mean something to me. You’ve stumbled into my heart and dug in. You live there now. There is no way that I can walk away from you. If I could have, I would have done it after I got shot at and had to lay on the filthy floor of that sleazy hotel room.”

Jimin laughed. “The first time you saved my life. I’ll never forget that.” Jimin reached up to caress Jeongguk’s cheek, “So how do we make this work? How do we spare our hearts and give this a try?”

“We live so far apart. I have my family in San Diego and you have your work in L.A. and…,” Jeongguk paused. They both jumped when they heard the slamming of a car door. Someone was there at the cabin, with them. 

“Ok, no one knows we’re here. Who could that possibly be?” Jimin asked nervously. His voice trembled. Neither of them had the strength to go another round with robbers, or kidnappers, or shooters or whoever else wanted a piece of them. 

“We better go and find out,” Jeongguk grabbed Jimin’s hand and they walked towards the front of the cabin. As they crept around the side, it was Jeongguk who noticed it first. “Shit.” He wasn’t sure if he was relieved or even more worried. 

Jimin saw it too, “Is that…?”

A few puffs of smoke preceded the pale face that exited the red Porsche. Through the darkness; the orange glow of the long white cigarette burned a pattern into the humid night air. The visitor was familiar; a man with long hair that was slightly damp or greasy…or both. He slammed the door behind him and turned towards the cabin.

“Yoon?” Jeongguk remarked quietly. “Yoongi’s here? In Vegas?”

“Do you think he’s here to…?”

“Help? Damn right I do,” Jeongguk squinted before yelling, “Yoongi?”

They appeared from their hiding place behind the cabin and approached Yoongi as he stood next to his new car. As soon as Yoongi saw their shadowy figures approach he screamed, “AHHHHHH!” He was so scared that he dropped his cigarette to the ground and commenced to run for his life.

Jeongguk caught him quickly, “Yoon, Yoon, calm down. It’s me. It’s me.”

“Jk? Aw shit you scared me kid. I almost pissed my pants. This is the address your mother gave me, but you’re in the middle of fucking no where and I wasn’t sure this was the right place,” Yoongi explained.

Jimin gave Yoongi a hug, “You’re here. I can’t believe it.”

“My mother told you where we were?” Jeongguk was reserved. He wanted more information before jumping to conclusions.

“Yes, but it wasn’t easy. I had to tell her everything before she would agree to give me any information about where you two were. She’s a hard nut to crack,” Yoongi lit another cigarette.

“Tell her everything? And what exactly is everything?” Jeongguk was still confused about Yoongi’s sudden unannounced visit.

Yoongi was cagey. He looked up and down the abandoned street, keeping watch for unsavory characters. All of the talking was making him nervous. He wanted to get inside immediately. “Can we continue this inside, please. It’s not safe out here.” He held a large briefcase under his arm. It looked alot like the briefcase that Jeongguk had used as a prop on stage.”

“Ah yea, sure. Come in. Please come in,” Jimin offered.

Yoongi moved quickly, sliding between Jimin and Jeongguk as if using them as shields. As soon as they landed inside, he immediately locked the doors and then ran to the blinds. Once again he peered out to the street to make sure that he hadn’t been followed. He puffed his cigarette like it was fresh oxygen. 

“Shit.” He swore for seemingly no reason. “Why are you two staying so far from the strip?” He asked.

“We didn’t want any distractions. Plus it’s safer out here without all of the peering eyes. No one knows that I’m still in town,” Jimin explained. “Yoongi are you alright?”

“No. I’m not fucking alright. I’ve never been so nervous in my life.” He puffed.

“Ok, what is all of this about?” Jeongguk said as he grew tired of Yoongi’s strange bullshit.

Yoongi puffed again, “You sure this place is safe?” He was still ultra cagey and green gilled.

Jeongguk pulled Yoongi’s cigarette from his mouth and threw it to the floor. He twisted it into the hardwood with his foot. “Can you please calm down and tell us what the hell you’re doing here?”

Jimin and Jeongguk stared at each other.  

Yoongi took a deep breath. “I’ll show you what I’m doing here.” He walked towards the practice poker table that they had set up in the middle of the room. With one large sweep, he used his arm to push all of the cards and poker chips to the floor. The briefcase was dropped on the surface of the table with a mighty thud. Yoongi smiled as devilishly as satan himself. He popped the single lock in the center of the briefcase and proclaimed, “Welcome to the jungle boys.” The briefcase was pushed open to reveal stacks and stacks and stacks of one-hundred dollar bills. Yoongi flashed a gummy smile and pushed his hair back. He lit another cigarette, “I got your money.”

“What?” Jimin grabbed several of the bands and shuffled the bills between his fingers. 

 Jeongguk gasped, “Yoongi, but you said…,” 

“I said I was working on it. And I was. You have no idea the sewer full of shit that I had to swim through to get this money for you. And you better pay it back or we’re all dead. Thirteen percent interest, that was the deal, right?” Yoongi questioned.

“What do you mean or we’re all dead?” Jeongguk asked with concern.

“Let’s just say…I had to see a man about a horse,” Yoongi said mysteriously.

“You had to pee?” Jeongguk tried to clarify.

“No. I had to burn the candle at both ends,” Yoongi continued saying nonsense.

“You were working two jobs?” Jimin asked.

“There’s some folks out there that are madder than a wet hen,” Yoongi tried again.

“Chickens get emotional?” Jeongguk questioned.

“No! Fuck it. The bottom line is that I got the money and you better pay it back or else we’ll all be in trouble,” Yoongi concluded. Relieved to have the money out of his possession, he calmed his nerves. It was at that moment that he gradually noticed the gambling paraphernalia strewn all over the cabin. “Wait a minute, this looks like a poker set up.” The reality of why Jimin and Jeongguk wanted the money suddenly hit him, “Fuck you two. You promised me that you weren’t asking for this money to gamble. You said it was for medical bills. MEDICAL BILLS. Not gambling! But that’s exactly what you plan to do, isn’t it? You lied to me.” Yoongi turned a shade of green. His panic intensified.

“We didn’t lie. We didn’t lie. We told you to trust us. It’s not like that Yoon. We’ll pay it back. We’re guaranteed to win,” Jeongguk said in their defense.

“I put my ass on the line thinking you were giving this money to Jimin’s dying grandmother,” Yoongi fussed.

“We are. But we need a lot more, millions in fact. We have a plan to get the rest, but we need this as seed money. We’ll explain it all to you Yoongi. Just show us what you have,” Jeongguk stressed.

“Oh shit. What have I done? What have I gotten myself into?” Yoongi lamented.

“You’ll get your money back, I promise,” Jimin tried his best to reassure Yoongi.

Yoongi was hesitant. He thought about packing the money back into his suitcase and going home. He scowled at the two ignorantly and audaciously in love characters. They were both glowing like they’d been living in some fucking honeymoon wonderland for the last month. That made Yoongi even angrier as he pondered their situation.  

“Please Yoongi. Tell us how much you have.”

Yoongi rubbed his hands through his hair and took a seat at the poker table. He was ready to talk…and give them the money, “Ok…so that’s the thing.”

Jimin didn’t like the way that sounded, “What’s the thing? What do you mean? How much is here?”

“I’m a little short,” Yoongi shrugged.

“Define a little,” Jeongguk folded his arms. 

“About fifty thousand,” Yoongi grimaced. “but hey, I did the best I could. There’s two-hundred and fifty thousand dollars in cash. That’s why I’m so nervous. That’s a lot of cash. Eighty grand of that is my own personal money. It’s the best I could do with only three weeks notice. Take it and be grateful that you have it,” Yoongi said sternly.

“We appreciate it, Yoon, we really do.” Jeongguk turned to Jimin, “What do we do now? This is great, but...the tournament starts in thirty-six hours and we don’t have enough time to come up with the rest of the money.”

Jimin slid around Jeongguk and walked straight over to Yoongi, “You have no idea how grateful I am for this. Thank you Min Yoongi,” Jimin wrapped his arms around Yoongi and gave him a hug. 

Yoongi smirked. But then he immediately began apologizing again, “Look kids, I did the best I could with this one. $300,000…it’s a fucking wad a cash. My name is good on the street, but not that good.”

“It’s ok. We’ll figure it out. We’ll figure it out,” Jeongguk held Jimin’s hand.

The elder looked as if he were going to cry. Jeongguk refused to look into Jimin’s face because he couldn’t bear seeing his defeated expression. They both knew that this was the end. Yoongi was their last hope. And with him falling short, they had nowhere else to turn. There was no other tournament to play. There was no time to do any more crowdfunding. There was no one else to beg. Time was up. They would not be playing for the $3,000,000 pot at the High Roller’s Tourney at Caesar’s Palace.

Yoongi knew that his news wasn’t what they needed to hear, but he wasn’t ready to give up, “Look kid. I’m going to head back into Vegas. There’s a few people I haven’t seen in a while. I may be able to score a few more bucks. Chin up. Keep the money. I’m sure you two will come up with something.”

With that, Yoongi gave Jeongguk another hug and then raced back out to his red Porsche. 

No sooner than the door slammed shut, Jimin fell to his knees. “I failed her. I failed her.” 

He shook his head back and forth as tears the size of dimes slid down the mounds of his rosy cheeks. It suddenly hit him that he had wasted the last six months of his grandmother’s life, trying to save her while missing out on time they could have spent together. The pain was inordinate. Everything was suddenly so clear. He had been wrong all along. He failed her from the very beginning. His plan was never going to work and now, after it was too late, he finally realized it.

“You didn’t fail her. You didn’t,” Jeongguk countered Jimin’s defeated cadence.

“I should have been with her. I shouldn’t have been here chasing a plan that was never going to work. I did everything wrong,” Jimin wailed. It was the first time that he allowed himself to be fully vulnerable in front of Jeongguk. The first time that he cried like a child. The first time he purged his entire true heart. But at that moment, Jeongguk was the person he trusted most in the world. He was the only one who understood him, the only one who was faithful. There was no better person to pour his heart out to. “This is over.”

“Ok, if that’s what you want. But I need to say this. This is your choice. If you decide to go, then we will pack up and head out of here first thing in the morning. But…if you choose to fight, if you choose to continue, I won’t leave until this is done. I’m your partner…we either win or lose, but we’ll do it together.”

“I don’t understand you. I don’t understand a heart as big as yours. Your mother tried to warn me. She told me that this would happen. She told me that you would never leave my side. And I made a promise to her. My promise was to protect you at all costs. And it’s time for me to protect you. It’s over Jeongguk. I failed. This time…it’s really over. I’m going to take the money that I have and use it to pay as many of grandma’s bills as I can. It’s not enough to cover the surgery, but…,” Jimin shook his head. More tears fell before he collapsed in Jeongguk’s arms. His entire body wept.

Jeongguk kissed the top of Jimin’s head. Once again their emotional arcs curved in the same position, like the layers of a beautiful rainbow. They felt everything together. 

Jeongguk conceded because it was what Jimin wanted, “Tomorrow morning, we go home.”

***

It was 3:00am. Jimin had a sleepless night; tossing, turning, crying. Jeongguk’s night wasn’t much better. He slept in blocks of one or two hours before waking up. Everytime his body tried to relax, his heart stirred him awake at the faintest hint of Jimin weeping. It was a rough night for both of them, even though they didn’t talk about it. 

Heaviest on Jimin’s mind was saying goodbye to Jeongguk. Every time they tried to talk about the future of their relationship or how they were going to navigate their long distance or what they wanted from each other - they were interrupted. Jimin began to think that maybe their one night stand wasn’t meant to extend into anything more meaningful. Afterall, his grandmother was going to need all of his attention. He didn’t have time to navigate a long distance relationship. His grandmother had to be his only priority, not Jeongguk. His conclusion was not completely rational, nor had Jeongguk agreed to such a plan. But those were the negative thoughts that invaded Jimin’s mind at 3:00am.

He turned to watch Jeongguk sleep. And that’s when he heard that voice, “Look at me.”

Jimin sighed and kept his head down as he laid in the fetal position with Jeongguk facing him a few inches away.

“I said, look at me,” Jeongguk grabbed Jimin’s chin with the tenderness of two feathers and tilted his head up so that their eyes could meet.

“What is it?” Jimin saw Jeongguk’s eyes glistening in the pale moonlight. They were comforting and heartbreaking at the same damn time.

“...this.” Still cupping Jimin’s chin, Jeongguk pressed his lips over Jimin’s. He didn’t expect a return kiss. But comfort, care…something other than sadness needed to be breathed into him. That’s all he wanted to do.

Jimin pulled away from the kiss. “Don’t talk. Just…climb on top of me,” Jimin said meekly. 

Being Jimin’s bespoke lover, he knew exactly what Jimin needed; a few moments of bliss where pain and sadness didn’t exist. He spread Jimin’s legs and gently crawled on top of him. He couldn’t help but bathe him in kisses, nuzzling him in all of the warm places where his body heated against the bed. Partially in a daze, sleep deprived and barely conscious, Jeongguk took his time. They hadn’t made love in days and Jimin’s body was out of order, so Jeongguk had to be gentle. 

His hand landed hard on the nightstand, slapping against the glass as he searched for the lube they always kept there. He wanted to say comforting words, but he was under strict orders not to talk. He respected the silence. He was so sleepy. Massaging the lube into Jimin’s space was more soothing for him than it was for his partner. The warmth of Jimin’s insides almost lulled him to sleep as he worked to liberally lube Jimin’s inner skin. He rested on Jimin’s chest just for a moment; not to sleep, but to listen to his heartbeat. It was slow, powerful and sad. At the end of one beat and just before the start of another, he pressed gently into him. 

Jimin released a moan coupled with a calm breath. 

“Ok?” Jeongguk asked as he stared down at him.

Jimin simply nodded and pulled Jeongguk’s hips forward, urging him to start. Jeongguk stretched, rising on his tiptoes, and resting on his knees, surging his body forward as he pushed deep. He found Jimin’s prostate and danced there, bouncing against it with his oily tip.

Within minutes,  Jimin was in full tears. For the very first time they experienced emotional love making. They shared the arc with Jeongguk embodying all of Jimin’s tumultuous angst. The sex was not about physical satisfaction, but purging. It was everything that Jimin needed to face his failure. It was everything that he needed to heal.

If gentle, half-conscious, post-orgasmic sex was good for anything, it was helping with insomnia. Within minutes of both of them climaxing, they fell asleep in each other’s arms. Jimin loved the warmth, the comfort of having Jeongguk close. He remained as still as possible to avoid disrupting their carefully cultivated position. He closed his eyes as he listened to Jeongguk’s gentle snores accented by his heartbeat.

As for Jeongguk, he didn’t even have a chance to pull out before he was snoring on Jimin’s chest. He slept there for the remainder of the night with his cock partially embedded in Jimin’s body; nuts still swollen and resting in a pool of his own cum. 

***