Work Text
It’s dark and silent minus the muffled protests and whimpers from someone in the middle of the room. In the middle of the grey and concrete room lays a man in his early twenties. He looked younger than that though, slender and no muscle made him look like a boy, especially with the small whimpers and cries. He couldn’t really talk with the firm duct tape across his mouth and a large cloth wrapped around his eyes making it hard to see anything. His wrists were bound together and tied to his chest. He felt completely helpless and despite all of this he still cried for help. All that came out though was muffled screams.
He screamed some more when the familiar sound of footsteps came his way. The same footsteps that approached him a couple nights ago. The same footsteps that had came before he was touched in a way that made him feel dirty and a lowly object. These footsteps indicated something dark and sinister was coming his way.
“You keep screaming but it’s useless… even if I left this off no screams could be heard. We’re far from help, darling.”
The voice made the man whimper and try to scoot away especially when he felt his calloused fingers brush against his bare shoulder. He was completely nude and part of him was glad the man didn’t even reach lower.
It’s silent between the two for a minute, all the man can really hear are the footsteps walking around and the shuffling of objects. The next thing he felt was his hands reaching to untie the cloth from around his eyes. Soon they revealed the scared and tear filled eyes that belonged to the man. He was confused though as he couldn’t see a thing. All it was was a blur. Shapes and some colors but no defining anything to help him figure out where he was.
He cried out when he felt the duct tape quickly removed from his mouth. It left a sting linger behind afterwards and it took him a moment before he could talk. “I… I can’t see anything… why can’t I see anything.”
Nothing was said as the man could hear turning and grabbing something. Then those hands running through his hair making him squirm and try to get away from him. “It’s a precaution darling. The last thing I want is for you to get out and tell the first person you see everything you saw. The cops would find me right away and I cannot have that happen. However you didn’t run did you. That’s such a good boy.” He said as he ran his hand along the other’s cheek.
That’s when the boy started to feel something wrap around his throat and his eyes widened. The second he went to open his mouth and try to beg for his life the cord tightened around his windpipe cutting off any airflow. He desperately tried to reach up and pull the cord to try and save himself but the rope binding him had him secure and unable to leave. “It’s such a waste that you have to die. Even though you were so good for me…”
The boy coughed and choked trying to breathe. His face turned red and despite how hard he struggled he soon let out a noise and his eyes glasses over as life left his body. To make sure he was dead the cord stayed around his neck just a bit longer. Then, it was removed and the corpse was stared at as it laid lifelessly on the table. It was like that for a while before the man moved to put the cord away.
“This is what sinners like you get…”
A hand grabbed the lifeless face and squeezed the still warm face making the lips pucker.
“Hopefully when your body is discovered a warning will finally be known to the others. Otherwise their fate will be the same as yours darling boy.” He then patted the corpse’s cheek and moved away to finish the remaining things before he would dispose of the body. If anything was known this wasn’t going to be a one time thing and a new threat was emerging for Seoul.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Seoul is rainy and grey today, the overcast clouds covering the sun not allowing any light to peek through. Light rainfall hits sporadically and it only catches Jungkook’s attention when he has to pause from his work. He didn’t let it distract him at all, his eyes glued onto his computer he has been working on these reports for a solid week and there is no progress. He glances to his calendar and sighs as it says Friday. Weekends weren’t a thing when you are a ceo, it was always non stop. He knew already that he would have to come tomorrow when no one else was in the office, he didn’t care though. One less distraction.
He hated distractions, he preferred completion and getting things done then and there. So it made sense that he was stressfully running his hands through his short and styled hair and grunt as something else would come up.
He barely spared a glance at his assistant when she had entered after a knock. She stood there clenching onto the notebook in her arms. It took a long moment of excruciating silence before Jungkook looked up and met her eyes. “Is it time for you to leave?” He asked.
Despite being exhausted and stressed he treated all his staff with respect. Of course if they messed around they would be immediately let go. He didn’t tolerate any inappropriate behavior in his office.
“Oh, not yet I have a few more emails to send out and then I will leave. However I came to let you know someone is here to see you.” She said softly.
“I don’t have time for visitors Jiwoo.” He said immediately going back to his screen. He was reminded of how annoying this report was and he pressed his hand over his mouth letting out a deep sigh.
“He insists to come in.” She said softly. Jungkook’s eyes moved to meet hers as he remained in the same position. It clicked in his mind after a moment who it would be and he closed his eyes for a moment.
“Very well.”
She scurried out to go allow the individual in. Jungkook didn’t have to look up to even confirm who came in. The way he had walked in so proudly and the small little grin he could feel as it was so bold. “Jungkookie…”
“Jimin ah I really don’t have time for visits. I am sure Jiwoo has informed you.” He stated keeping his eyes glued to the screen while he concentrated on getting his reports done. He knew the other would insist they go out to a bar or something along those lines. When he wanted something he would bother the other in his workplace. Jungkook had a habit of ignoring texts unless it involved important work matters. So Jimin knew the only way to convince the other to do anything was in person.
“Are you still stressing on that report?” Jimin whined as he walked over to the desk. Jungkook never let anyone get in his personal space or walk behind the desk, but stopping Jimin was near impossible. He was a stubborn brat. A sigh escaped his nose as the other wrapped his arms around him and leaned on him from behind. “You gonna give yourself an aneurysm at your young age.”
“I am taking appropriate breaks when needed.” Jungkook grumbled.
“Oh yeah when was your last break?” Jimin asked. Silence was followed for a while after and Jimin giggled as he pulled away and leaned on the other’s desk. “Can’t lie can you?”
Jungkook met the other with a glare and swatted at him to get off his desk. “What did you come here for so I can tell you no already.” He said managing to get Jimin off his desk. The other rolled his eyes before he moved to the front of the desk.
“You are not saying no to this because as your best friend I care about your well being. We are going to a club tonight. Not just any club that you can say no to but Amethyst Night.” Jimin said, ignoring the surprised look from Jungkook.
Purple Night was a fairly new club that gained popularity in Seoul. Everyone has definitely heard of it because of it’s popularity. Paparazzi has even caught famous celebrities walking out and posting it all over social media and tabloids. To not know Purple Nights you have to be not paying attention. Jungkook knew of it of course he has never gone though. It wasn’t his thing to go out to clubs plus there was another issue with it.
“I don’t think going to a strip club is going to help anything here Jimin.” He said. It wasn’t like he had a problem with strippers, or even the male strippers that filled the club. He just knew that he personally wouldn’t enjoy going to it. “Besides it’s super hard to get in how do you expect us to get in on a Friday night.”
He notices a mistake and sighs deeply as he goes back a few steps to fix it while Jimin went on with an answer. “I know the owner.” He answered with a quick shrug. “Look there’s a section we can go to where it’s just a bar. The whole show and everything associated with the strippers are in a whole other area. I have been dying to try it and I know this report mess is stressing you out.”
Confirmation of Jimin’s assumption was provided when Jungkook cursed at another mistake. The silence made Jungkook look up and he huffed. “I don’t need to de stress by getting drunk. I will just go home and relax.”
“Alone. You do realize how sad that sounds.”
“Fuck off.” He grumbled. He sighed as he turned back to his computer. If he looked at another graph he was going to lose it. With his eyes closed and a deep sigh he really contemplated his next words. He hasn’t gone to something in such a long time and he didn’t find the fun in it much anymore. The more he thought about it the more he was going against what he just had said.
“Fine… but if I hate this I am leaving.” He said with a grumble.
As soon as he said it Jimin beamed in excitement and clapped his hands. It brought a great annoyance throught Jungkook as he turned back to his computer and began to close out the programs. He would just not get too drunk and come back tomorrow, it would be fine. If it wasn’t he would hate Jimin for it forever. “Okay so I am going to head to your apartment… finish this up and we’ll get ready together. I know exactly what you are going to wear.”
Before Jungkook could argue about his suit that he was wearing now would be fine Jimin was already gone. Jungkook glared at the door and let out a long groan as he leaned back in his chair. He was going to regret this he knows it.
+++
“No.”
Jimin huffed at the other as he held up two shirts that he insisted Jungkook would wear to the club. Both shirts were bright and could be seen a mile away, that wasn’t Jungkook. He still wore his work suit hoping he can just go in with that but Jimin went off about how boring that was and pulled out these shirts from a bag he brought along. “Jungkook, these would look great on you though.”
“In what world?” Jungkook asked as he stood and removed his suit jacket. He had given up on the suit but he refused to wear something that bright.
Another huff came from the other while Jungkook laid his suit jacket on the chair. “Fine… I’ll look in your closet and see what I can use.” He grumbled. Jungkook watched him disappear into his walk-in closet while he let out a sigh and loosened his tie. The more he thought about tonight the more he regretted agreeing to go. It wasn’t that he was a party pooper and didn’t enjoy fun he just had lots of work to do. Not to mention a crowd full of rowdy people made his nerves buzz just at the thought of it. He wasn’t a people person whatsoever unless it came to work. Maybe he distracts himself with work so he didn’t have to have that anxiety always at him, but he enjoyed working regardless.
“Okay so I managed to find something…” Jimin grumbled as he came out. Jungkook looked over and he eyed the two shirts he had brought out. He had completely forgot about these, they were fun prints but not as blinding as Jimin’s. One was a muted purple base with dark flowers all over and the other was a thin almost mesh material with zebra stripes. He remembers when he wore both and it was
years
. “I personally like zebra stripes.”
Jungkook looked to Jimin and then back to the shirts. “I haven’t worn these in forever… there’s probably a reason.” He grumbled as he reached for the shirt to feel the material for a moment. The clothes were quickly thrown on the bed before Jimin looked Jungkook dead in the eye.
“The reason I’m taking you out is because you’ve been nothing but hard on yourself. I want you to not worry about anything tonight and have a good time.” He said.
“Kind of hard to do when I’m stressed.”
Jimin slapped Jungkook’s shoulder as he reached out to unbutton the others shirt. Jungkook blinked in surprise and slapped his hands in return. “I can take off my own shirt.” He grumbled.
The other pulled back before nodding. “Here’s what you’re going to do. Choose from those shirts and choose a pair of slim fitted pants. Once you’re done I’ll do your hair and stuff and we will head on out. I promise you will look good and have a good time.” He stated and before Jungkook could even argue Jimin was out the bedroom door and left Jungkook alone in the room.
Silence filled the room as Jungkook stood there contemplating everything. He looked to the shirts on the bed and walked close to them. He hated these shirts but couldn’t think to get rid of them for some reason. So instead they were in his closet collecting dust. He picked them up and the immediate waft of them being in the closet for so long hit his nose. It wasn’t a terrible smell just smelled like the wood that was around his closet. He would have to spray this in some cologne just to mask the smell for now, he’d wash them later.
The decision on what to wear took a while. It involved just sitting and contemplating for a second. He could go with Jimin’s choice and do the zebra stripes on a shirt he knew he’d feel uncomfortable in or the shirt he leaned towards and would still feel uncomfortable. He knew Jimin was just trying to help. So he sighed and closed his eyes. “Come on Kook… one night.”
He got up and he grabbed the shirt he was daring to try and get dressed as Jimin had suggested.
It wasn’t long before Jungkook walked out and was greeted by Jimin gasping. He rolled his eyes as the other clapped and hurried over. “So you did take my advice!”
Jungkook almost took the zebra shirt off multiple times being insecure about it however he went with it. He had slid on some slim fitting dress pants he had and tucked the shirt into them. A nice belt accentuated his waist. That was as far as he got. He hasn’t chose any shoes as he knew if he’d choose the wrong pair Jimin would beat him with one of them to prove his point or something. “I’m trusting you with a lot.”
Jimin huffed as he walked up to adjust the shirt, even quickly unbuttoning the top button, and he looked up at Jungkook as he messed with his hair for a second. “I know we’ll have fun. Now. Let’s get the final details, I’ll get dressed, and then we’ll head out!”
Jungkook gave him a small smile and nodded however all he wanted was to stay home. He hopes this night wouldn’t be as bad as it’s seeming to be.
+++
It wasn’t long, even though it felt like an eternity, before they left and headed out. Jimin had put some hair product in Jungkook’s hair to get it out of his face and somehow managed to frame his face perfectly. The shoes Jimin picked were a casual pair of dress shoes that were comfortable but somehow still looked dressy. He glanced over to Jimin who was driving, he wore one of the shirts he had brought. It was funny to think that Jimin almost had him wearing the brightly colored striped button up.
The traffic got heavier making Jungkook looking forward and he knew they were near. It was a Friday night and in a busy part of town, but it was heavily because of Amethyst Nights. Finding parking near the club was going to be near to impossible and people are lined up practically around the building. Jungkook watched as Jimin drove past the club. “I hope you can find parking…” He grumbled.
They turned right and approached a parking garage and Jungkook blinked before looking at Jimin. “I wasn’t gonna go if parking was gonna be ass. As I said, I know the owner.”
“Did you suck his dick or something to get such great stuff?” Jungkook asked which led to a slap to his chest from the other. He held back the urge to smirk as they quickly found a parking spot. Jimin reaches over to rummage through his glove box and pulled out a bright red parking pass he hung up on the rear view mirror.
“Just so we don’t get towed. Anyone can park but if they don’t have that they get their car taken.” He explained as he pulled out his wallet and phone and made sure he had everything as he got out. Jungkook was quick to follow and he smoothed his clothes out, mainly out of nerves.
They walked to the building and he could see the length of the line of many hopefuls trying to get in. He could already tell none of them were gonna make it. Jimin proudly walks to the express entrance and the bouncer stops him. “Name.” The harsh bouncer demands.
“Park Jimin and plus one.” Jimin said pulling Jungkook close, making Jungkook snap out of his daze and look at the bouncer. The man’s frown couldn’t get any deeper as he looked thoroughly through the list. Jungkook swore they might have been turned away with how long it took, however the big man barely spared them a glance as he let them through. Jungkook let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.
As they walked in loud music hits Jungkook all at once mixed in with the smell of a lot of unfamiliar scents. He wasn’t even sure what he was smelling and he really didn’t wanna know. Suddenly Jimin drags Jungkook quickly across the room before Jimin is hugging a man he had know idea who it was. “Joon ah! I hoped I could see you tonight.” Jimin giggled as he pulled back.
“I’m glad you could come!” He said grinning widely with a dimpled smile, his eyes then met Jungkook’s and raised his brow. “I see you managed to bring him in.” He said. Jungkook raised a brow and looked at Jimin who was giggling.
“Joonie, this is Jungkook! Jungkook this is Namjoon! He owns the club!” He said introducing the two. Namjoon smiled and offered his hand to Jungkook who shook it in return. He took that opportunity to observe him. He was young for a club owner, maybe just a few years older than him. He stood with a broad frame and he was definitely muscular as the shirt he wore clung to his torso enough to show off the bulges of his muscles.
“Thanks for getting us in.” Jimin continued on.
Namjoon waved it off as if it was nothing. “Of course it’s the least I could do. I mean I’ve been trying to convince you to come for months.”
“I would have come sooner but it was him I was tryna convince.” Jimin jabbed his thumb into Jungkook’s direction.
A huff came out of Jungkook before he moved his eyes away to look around. He really should get a drink or something, anything to loosen him up. Without a word he let Jimin and Namjoon go at it as he approached the bar and ordered a drink, he didn’t have anything in mind but instead told the bartender to surprise him. As he waited he looked back to Jimin and he blinked as the other already disappeared.
Typical.
Jungkook loves Jimin but the other was known to invite him somewhere and then ditch him, especially with how much he was eyeballing Namjoon. He turns when the bartender places the drink next to him and he takes it. He sighed as he looked around still seeing no sign of Jimin. Grumbling, he took a sip and he moved to find somewhere to sit or just look around.
He approached a room that seemed to slowly be filling up. He noticed the stage and he tilted his head softly. Then he saw the poles and immediately knew where he was. He wanted to leave but where would he go? To the bar where he’d sulk about being ditched. He took a sip of his fruity but slightly tangy drink and decided he’d stay and take a seat.
He sat himself down on a plush red velvet chair. It wasn’t right next to the stage and he preferred it that way. From the looks of it pig-like men rushed eagerly to the stage with their dirty dollar bills at the ready. He would rather just let them have it despite how disgusting they were. He found it funny though how he judged everyone running so eagerly to the stage and the whole concept and here he was out of genuine curiosity. It was very hypocritical really.
The lights dimmed and his attention drew away from the men. That’s when he heard the announcer came on. “Ladies and gentlemen… welcome to Amethyst… we are all excited to have you tonight with our very highly anticipated performers… and to start us off tonight I know you all know him very well, resident stripper here at Amethyst who’s a crowd favorite… he’s opening our show tonight with a crowd favorite….” The announcer paused causing the crowd to get hyped up as everyone knew the performance but Jungkook. He looked around curiously as everyone was applauding. “VANTE….”
The crowd erupted as a spotlight shown on the curtain that opened up slowly after. A song came on the sultry music starting slow and everyone took a second but calmed down as the song continued on. Jungkook however didn’t seem to notice anything because as soon as this performer looked up he was star struck. His face was absolutely gorgeous. His eyes were what grabbed him really, he wore a grey colored contact and one eye showed a lid where the other didn’t. They almost showed innocence but they definitely reminded him of what a siren would look like as he was lost at sea.
Then he began to dance, Jungkook took that opportunity to observe his get up. He wore the smallest pair of shorts that showed off his ass. He had not a ton of muscle tone in his body especially around his torso, his torso flat and covered in various forms of glitter. He however was remarkable and Jungkook didn’t think so because he was a stripper he actually almost thought he resembled an angel. And as he heard the song slowly begin to stop he got up immediately and ran to find a member of staff…
He needed to meet Vante.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Somehow, Jungkook made it into this room…
He sat in the chair anxiously bouncing his leg looking around at his surroundings. It was a small square room with red and purple lighting. Neon lights and signs decorated the walls. He remembered running into the first staff member he could find. The staff member tried to state that to get a room with Vante it was a heavy price.
“I do not care name the price.”
The staff member eyed him up and down. “His minimum is 60 million won.”
Jungkook of course was a little taken back by that but he shook it off. It was 50 grand almost in US money, they weren’t kidding he was a heavy price. However he had to meet him.
Now here he was waiting patiently, the staff member stated he would have to grab Vante and have him prepare for a room. So he waited in this room thinking about what the hell he was doing. This wasn’t like him, to wait for a stripper and spend 60 million won on someone he’s never met. However he had a funny feeling in his gut when Vante began to perform, and he hasn’t felt this feeling in a long time.
His eyes shot to the door when he heard the doorknob turn. The door had opened and he swore he felt him lose all capability of breathing when Vante walked in. A soft smile grew on his face as he made his way in. He closed the door before turning to him and tilted his head. “I must say, I made my price high for a reason, and when someone pays that price I’m always waiting to see if I’d be disappointed.”
His voice was beautiful and Jungkook stood there silently as he approached him. The other wore heels that were a good 6 inches it seemed. They clicked along the tiles as he came to stand right in front of Jungkook. “It’s quite rare to see a young and handsome man like yourself…” He stated with a soft chuckle. He moved to gently sit in the other’s lap. “Most men are in their 50’s and hiding this from their wives because they’re too much of a coward to be straightforward… you aren’t though… are you?”
It was awkwardly silent between the two before Jungkook realized and he quickly cleared his throat. “Ah no of course not…”
Vante let out a chuckle and he reached up to brush some hair that fell in Jungkook’s face out of the way. “Excellent… now tough guy what’s your name.” He said as he grabbed the remote to turn on some music.
“Jungkook…” He said shortly some music came on and Taehyung got to work what he was supposed to do. His body began to follow along with the music. He rolled his body and his eyes turned to Jungkook.
“Okay Jungkook… just a couple rules here… this is a lap dance not touching me. My job is to entertain not to be your prostitute. Which brings me to the next similar rule… no kissing.” He pulled back as he removed himself from Jungkook’s lap and eyed him for a moment. He almost chuckled and Jungkook wondered if it was how stiff he was. “You’re here to have fun… so just relax.” He said as he moved to stand behind him and began to run his hands along Jungkook’s shoulders.
“I am…” Jungkook argued in a meek tone. Vante snorted at the other, he basically proved his own point.
“Why are you so nervous… surely you shouldn’t be scared if you’re willing to spend so much on me…” He said his heels clicking as he moved to stand in front of him.
Jungkook cursed internally before he cleared his throat and tried to not seem like he was about to explode. “I just wanted to see you again… you’re very beautiful.” He said to the other.
It sounded domestic and Vante almost made a face at it but he held it back. There had to have been comments like that thrown at him all the time. Jungkook nibbled on his inner cheek and he just remained silent allowing the other to do his work. It got silent and the tension between the two got so tense that it almost felt suffocated.
It went on before Vante huffed and stepped back. “Is this your first time doing this?” He asked the other.
A nod came from Jungkook after a moment of hesitation. He never planned on doing any of this but something took over him and he just needed to see him again. This wasn’t like him and he felt almost embarrassed. A red tint formed on his cheeks and Vante rose a brow. “Maybe we should stop…” He stated as he turned off the music.
“No wait.” Jungkook said it so fast that Vante looked at him quizzically. It was silent and all Jungkook could do was nibble on his lip before he sighed. “You don’t have to leave. I mean… you don’t have to do a lap dance or anything.”
Vante scoffed as he crossed his arms over his bare chest. “Isn’t that what you paid me to do?”
“Well I really just wanted to see you again… we can talk maybe? Has someone ever sat down with you and talked about what you want?” That caused Vante to look even more hesitant. Jungkook worried as they sat there in silence that he would just leave.
It was when he turned to his right and dragged over the extra chair to sit down that made Jungkook blink in surprise. “I’d rather be in here than around all those horny pricks touching me… you’ve got 47 minutes.” Jungkook felt the relief off his shoulders. He felt silly to beg the other to stay, but he’s here.
“Well… how about your name… is it really-“
“There’s a reason we have stage names.” Vante cut him off. “To you it’ll be Vante and always be Vante.”
Jungkook nodded immediately and mentally noted that. “I actually like it… it suits you.”
Hesitant eyes met Jungkook’s curious ones. It was almost as if they were both trying to see past this façade they both put up to protect themselves. It was there, it was just hard to get into. So eventually they broke away and it grew silent again.
It was minutes before Vante spoke. “Why are you even here…”
Jungkook rose a brow quizzically “I told you I wanted to-“
“No.” Vante said, holding his hand up and making Jungkook immediately silent. “
Here
at Amethyst. No offense or anything but you don’t look like you’re the type to enjoy this crowd.”
A shrug came from Jungkook. “My friend said he got us in and he wouldn’t shut up about it. If you want the truth, I was going to be working overtime in my office.”
The curiosity now went ablaze in Vante’s eyes and Jungkook grew fond of the small glimmer in his eye. “Lemme guess. You work overtime. Don’t do parties often. Not very social. Business man, but not just a plain business man. You worked your ass off for your spot to where you are now and you try to go even further. So not a CEO but definitely some high position.”
“How did you know…”
Vante chuckled softly as he leaned against his chair and he crossed his legs. “I get a lot of the same men who come in here with the same profession. All just like you… but not exactly like you. You’re definitely different from those men, and I would take that as a compliment.”
A blink of confusion hits Jungkook nods. “It’s nice to know I’m different.” He states. Vante hums and looks away so Jungkook speaks up. “What about you?”
Vante raised a brow and looked back over to him. “What about me?”
“Your story… what is your story.” He said fiddling with his fingers. The silence made him continue hating the awkward silence between them. “You could just tell me what you want. I don’t need every single detail. Plus we have… 32 minutes…” That caused the both of them to look at the clock on the wall and that actually caused Vante to smirk just the sightest.
“Why do you want to know so much about me… I don’t think you understand what exactly this is. I strip, you pay. Nothing more nothing less.” Vante asked.
Jungkook hated that Vante thought of himself like that. He understood this was his job but Jungkook didn’t see him as just a stripper. He was gorgeous and for Jungkook who had his nose deep in work all the time, he really meant it. “I don’t see you like that though. I saw you on the stage-”
“As a stripper… Jungkook. You saw me on the stage as a
stripper.
You don’t know me and I don’t want you to… got it?” He asked sternly. A blink of shock came from Jungkook as he sighed and nodded, just then a knock came to the door and they both looked over to see Namjoon opening the door. “Hyung we have 25 minutes-”
“This is important.” Namjoon said grimly.
Jungkook grew confused but as he looked to Vante he saw how he had paled incredibly. He is silent before he carefully glanced to Jungkook and he looked him in the eye as he got up. “I can refund you for the time we couldn’t finish..” He said but his voice was shaky almost as if he was trembling. He grew worried thinking maybe Namjoon was being abusive or mean to Vante. He looked to Namjoon who didn’t show any signs of an abuser, but he couldn’t tell he never really saw one. He shook his head to Vante. “No it’s fine don’t worry about it.”
Vante gave him a small smile before he got up and followed Namjoon out. Jungkook swifty got up and he walked to the door he opened it softly and he stopped as he heard them in the hallway.
“They found Eunwoo…” Namjoon’s voice said.
“Namjoon you know this is beginning to be a problem… it’s not a coincidence that he was found after being missing for a week like the other two. Why haven’t the cops started an investigation.” Vante responded. His voice was not as confident and strong as it was just when they first met. Jungkook almost didn’t recognize it.
“You know they took on the case…”
“They took it but haven’t done shit… if you care about this club and the performers, more specifically the
male
ones that are being targeted, you will make sure they do something.” Vante said sternly. There’s silence and soon Jungkook watched as Vante stormed off with the click of his heels. He didn’t notice him spying thankfully as he walked out into the hallway. He didn’t see Namjoon behind him.
“You know if he saw you spying on him he would make sure you’re never allowed in this club again.” Namjoon said making Jungkook jump and turn to him with his round wide eyes. Namjoon stood there calmly despite the news Jungkook just heard. Jungkook played it cool though and brushed off his clothes.
“What on earth are you talking about.” He asked.
Namjoon rolled his eyes before he walked forward. “Listen, I don’t have time to argue with you about what you did and didn’t hear. I will warn you this, I know how you feel about Vante… there’s no other reason you two were just sitting around when you spent so much money to see him.”
He was called out, but he looked at him cautiously. “I just thought he was gorgeous.”
“Vante doesn’t do relationships…” Namjoon stated simply. “This isn’t coming from me. It’s from him. Just get that in your head now.” He was firm and almost a different person when he was introduced to him a couple hours before.
“He made that clear don’t worry…” Jungkook said.
Namjoon eyed him up and down for a second almost making Jungkook’s blood boil. He was practically judging him, he hasn’t done anything. He clenched his jaw slightly while they stood there in silence. “Jimin is at the bar… he’s drunk off his ass. You probably should take him home.” Namjoon said. He got one more look at him before he turned around and left, leaving Jungkook to stare at the man’s back as he walked off into the crowd. Jungkook knew this would happen, he would come here with Jimin despite wanting to stay home. Now for it to only lead to him being uncomfortable and having to drag Jimin’s ass home.
He turned eventually and eventually made his way to the bars it didn’t take long to hear a giggling from his friend. He found him at a half crowded bar and he was talking to some stranger. Jungkook grumbled not ready to deal with some stranger and having to drag the wasted Jimin away. Usually when Jimin was as drunk as he was he wasn’t very aware of anything except for an attractive man. He approached the two and was mentally hoping this was a quick interaction.
He heard Jimin giggling to the other and at one point playfully slapping his shoulder. “Jimin…” He said as he placed his hand on his back.
Jimin turned and he smiled widely seeing it was Jungkook. “Kookie!! Oh mah gawd where have you been. Are you having fun… oh god forgive me… meet… I am sorry I completely forgot your name.” He said turning to the other man. This man must have just approached Jimin and not even bothered to say his name, the chance of Jimin being drunk off his ass and forgot.
“It’s Jinwoo.” He said chuckling a little bit. He seemed on edge though and Jungkook assumed it was because he interrupted. He nodded simply before turning all his attention to Jimin.
“Hey we should head out…” He said.
“Noooo I am having so much fun.” Jimin whined loudly like a three year old. “Jinwoo and I are connecting so much…”
Jungkook sighed before he looked to Jinwoo. “I’m sorry but we need to go home.” He said simply. Before anyone could argue he took Jimin and helped him stand and began to lead him off.
“Wait if he wants to stay I can just take him home after.” Jinwoo said.
“Yeah Kookie lemme stayyy….” Jimin whined. Jungkook didn’t like this and this was his best friend as much as he wanted to go home for his own sake, he wanted Jimin to be home too. However Jimin was being stubborn and this man had Jimin wrapped around his finger. Before he could say anything an arm wrapped around Jimin and he looked over. He groaned seeing Namjoon.
“Baby… please go home with your little brother.” Namjoon stated making Jimin look over with a blink of his eyes. Jungkook saw the gaze on Namjoon as he looked at the man. It was definitely a sharp glare making even him shudder and the stare wasn’t on him.
Jimin gulped before he nodded and looked to Jiwoo. “I’m sorry I guess I let the alcohol make decisions for me.” He said playfully. The look on Jiwoo’s face made Jungkook confused. It was a mix of almost fear and agitation. He excused himself before it was just them again. Jungkook looked over to Namjoon who said nothing but nodded as if he was telling him to head on out. Grabbing Jimin’s hand they made their way out of the club.
They are silent as they made their way to the parking garage and as Jimin pulled out his keys he snatched them up and looked to Jimin. “You know you should be more careful when you get shit faced right. Pretty sure he was using that to his advantage.” He said as he opened the door for Jimin to get in.
The smaller basically stumbled into the car and eventually managed to buckle in. Jungkook watched the whole time making sure the other needed help. “Namjoon wouldn’t have intervened if he was safe…”
Jungkook knew the guy was suspicious but when he said that that made his stomach churn. For the owner of the club who knows probably everyone who comes in and intervene, it must have been serious. He bit his lip and when he saw Jimin was secured he closed the door. He walked to the driver’s side and buckled in as he looked over. “I’m glad he did step in.” He said softly.
Jimin gave a small smile before he closed his eyes. It wasn’t long as they drove to Jungkook’s apartment for Jimin to pass out. Jungkook kept a careful eye on the other while they drove as he worried deeply for him. Especially knowing now that Namjoon had to step in for a reason. It gave him mixed feelings about Namjoon however. From dealing with him in the hallway and then him protecting his best friend. He seems to like to protect the people he cares about, but he wasn’t sure. He just met this man so he really shouldn’t have any room to judge. However he had just met that other man who was probably going to hurt his best friend. Sometimes judging a book by it’s cover was what was needed.
They got to his apartment and Jimin was still passed out. He stared at him for a second as he took a deep sigh, he was exhausted but he wasn’t gonna leave his friend in the car all night. Soon he had Jimin over his shoulder as if he weighed nothing and carefully walked them both into the apartment. With a fumble of his keys he got the both of them inside and moved Jimin to the guest bedroom. He didn’t take off his clothes but instead his jewelry and shoes. Jimin soon was tucked in and Jungkook left him be.
By the time he had changed he made his way into his own bedroom and laid on his bed. He wore a tank top and a pair of shorts as he just sat there staring at he ceiling. He had experienced a lot in one night. Normally when Jimin invited him to things they ended terribly. The night did end in a way he wished it didn’t, however it was something different and he wanted more. He wanted more of Vante, and he knew that Vante didn’t want more of him. He should know that when it comes to falling for someone it’s not always going to go your way.
He closed his eyes and sighed deeply. He was going to have to forget him, or else this was going to mess with his everyday life. With a sigh he rolls over and pulls his blanket over his body. Hoping to let sleep overcome his exhausted body.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jungkook was up early even though his body was exhausted. His head hurt and it was just a genuine struggle to get himself out of bed. However, that wasn’t going to stop him from helping his hungover friend who was passed out in his guest bedroom. He had the TV on while he was preparing eggs in one pan and getting a pack of bacon out. He began to cook that as well when his attention went to the TV at a particular story.
“Another body was discovered last night on the outer part of Seoul. We are told that this was another performer from one of Seoul's most prestigious nightclubs, Amethyst Nights. With this being the fifth one we believe this could be another victim of the serial killer at large causing stress to not just the often club goers of Amethyst but the staff and dancers of the club as well. Seoul police department advises that everyone be careful as this killer is at large and very dangerous.”
“Something is burning…”
Jungkook snapped his eyes away from the TV to look at his pans. He gasped and quickly tried to recover the bacon he had left unattended. Once on the plate he examined the meat and let out a sigh. “Damn that cooked fast…” He grumbled.
Jimin, who had brought Jungkook back from the disturbing news story, looked at Jungkook. He was all snuggled in Jungkook’s comforter from the guest bed. “You’re welcome.” He said as he walked over to the island and took a seat on one of the stools.
Orange juice that Jungkook had already prepared was placed in front of Jimin. “How do you feel?” Jungkook asked as he placed more bacon on the pan. Sizzling erupted on the hot pan and Jungkook made sure to keep his mind on the bacon this time.
“Like a bus hit me.” He grumbled sipping at the orange juice. A grumpy look prominently on his face.
“That’s one reason I don’t like drinking like you do.” He said with a glance back. Jimin met his gaze with him sticking his tongue out.
“Normally I don’t get that wasted but that guy kept buying me drinks…” He said and then he made a face realizing how bad that sounded.
Jungkook felt the tension and he glanced back at Jimin. “Namjoon told me you were with him. Good thing he did. Pretty sure you would have been in serious trouble.” He said grabbing a plate and putting food on both plates. Once he turned and put the plate in front of Jimin, the other took his wrist causing them to meet eyes.
“You possibly saved my life… and I’m very thankful to have you in my life…”
Jungkook blinked exasperated by his whole statement. “Hyung… I think you’re-“
“No. You don’t understand. I could have died. I could have been killed like those strippers who are going missing. It didn’t hit me until this morning and I feel guilty almost.” He said as he eventually let go of Jungkook’s hand. They both stood there in silence and Jimin’s lip wobbled.
“Hey… Jimin, no crying now.” He said with a sigh coming over to wipe the tears away. “There’s no reason to feel guilty or get too worked up. You have me and Namjoon hyung to protect you. Good thing he did too, hm?”
Jimin nodded and he leaned against Jungkook. The younger quickly moved to support him. He was bad at this comforting thing so he sat there for a moment and hesitantly rubbed his back. Jimin slowly began to eat making the silence be filled with soft sniffles and the fork touching the plate. Eventually, the silence was broken by Jimin after he had finished most of his plate.
“Namjoon is worried about the club.”
Jungkook raised a brow and looked down at Jimin. “Well I would be too… his dancers are being targeted and killed…”
“He isn’t sure why… this happened all the sudden and out of nowhere. Everyone loves Amethyst Nights he isn’t sure who would go to lengths like this.” Jimin said.
Jungkook tilted his head. “It could be a hate crime. Aren’t most of his dancers male?”
Jimin shrugged in return. “He has both… it just doesn’t make sense though.” The silence lingered between the two and Jungkook pursed his lips. He wasn’t sure how to make the other feel better, and then an idea popped into his head.
“Ya know what we both need right now…” He said watching Jimin look up with a raised brow. “Haejang-guk. I know just the place too.”
He knew as soon as Jimin lit up that was the solution. He turned to grab his keys off the coffee table. “Why don’t you just chill out here… I have to get some work done at the office and I’ll be back for lunch.” Jimin then frowned.
“I don’t understand how you can work on a Saturday.” He said as he moved to plop down on his couch and turn on a different channel on the TV
Jungkook rolled his eyes before he went to his room to change into something other than his PJs. With a black t-shirt and some slim-fit black jeans on he walked back out and slipped on his shoes. He eyed Jimin and raised a brow, before the other could fight him off he ruffled his messy hair. Jimin whined, slapping at the other, “ Rude.”
“I’ll be back by 1.” Jungkook said with a devilish grin. It was not common with the cold-faced CEO, but it did come out here and there for his friend.
He then walked out and went to his car. His plan was only to catch up on some work and then get them soup, that was it. Nothing more.
+++
He can’t explain how he got here.
Well he can, the restaurant that had exactly what he wanted was next to the Amethyst Nights bar. He had picked up the food and then as he walked out he saw it right in front of him. He stood there in shock and after a second he stomped to his car.
His memory worked then and there and he remembered passing by it last night. While Jimin was dealing with traffic he was staring out at the window. How does fate draw him back here when he was trying to forget about the other from last night?
He couldn’t also explain why he was still sitting there and just staring at the bar. What was this going to change if he continued to sit there? He wasn’t sure, but here he was eyes locked on the bar that was less extravagant at daytime. He shook his head and moved to turn on his car but he hesitated. He looked up at the bar again and without another thought, he got out of the car.
“Aish Jungkook what are you doing….” He grumbled as he went to get back in his car but as he did he turned and almost ran into an individual. “Oh I’m sorry-“
He stopped when he met eyes with who he almost ran into. “Oh, Vante… I…”
A bare-faced Vante looked at him with a raised eyebrow. His hair wasn’t as made up and his clothes were super casual than what he saw last night. Jungkook thought even without all of that he was still a good-looking individual. “Jungkook… you better not be stalking me now-“
Jungkook looked up and shook his head immediately. “No, I promise you I wasn’t. My friend I came with last night needed a little pick me up so I picked up some hangover stew…”
Vante crossed his arms. “That just so happened to be outside of Amethyst Nights…”
Jungkook groaned softly. “Listen I know it sounds insane but I sincerely had no intentions.”
The other kept his face stern while looking him up and down and gave him a small smile. “You’re cute when you’re all worked up.” He said teasingly. Jungkook blinked in surprise before he laughed with the other softly. He was honestly dreading that the other would call the cops. “Are you going to come again tonight?” He asked.
“Oh uh, I think it was a one-time deal. I heard it’s super hard to get in and Jimin had someone being weird and creepy to him last night…” Jungkook said.
Vante frowned deeply, when Jungkook met his eyes there was almost a little bit of fear in his eyes as well. “I honestly think it’s nothing to be concerned about Vante… Namjoon had kept a close eye on him.”
The other sighed before he checked his time. “Can you come back tonight? I need to make up for that time that was cut short between us. You spent a good amount of money on me I’m not going to let it go to waste.”
“But getting in…”
“I’ll take care of it don’t worry. Be here around 7 pm. My main stage will be over by then, okay?” He asked
Jungkook wasn’t sure what took over him. He was so sure he would be able to forget Vante and never go back to this bar again. However here he stood in front of the one person he swore to forget and stared at his beautiful brown eyes and he spoke eventually. “I’ll be there.”
Vante smiled and just that made Jungkook’s chest flutter. “Wonderful. When you get here come to that vip line and tell them Vante asked for you. I’ll be sure to be there by then, the bouncers might not believe you.” He said before he began to walk away. “I’ll see you tonight.”
Jungkook waved as Vante walked away and into the building. Then he was just standing there as his mind was racing. That just happened, that really just happened. His thoughts were interrupted when his phone buzzed and he looked down to see a text message from Jimin.
You’re late >:(
He looked at the time and cursed silently as he hurried back to his car, the thing was work didn’t make him late. It was him staring at the damn bar. He had some explaining he had to do and he wasn’t sure if Jimin would believe him or not.
+++
“Shut up, you’re lying.”
Jungkook set down the soups so they could eat. “I had a feeling you would say that.” He disposed of the plastic takeout bag and brought back utensils for both of them.
Jimin accepted the spoon before digging in. “So you’re going tonight?”
“I don’t know…”
“But you said yes!” Jimin exclaimed but winced as his hangover was still giving him a headache. He went back to a softer tone. “You can’t just stand up this man after you told him yes.”
Jungkook sighed. “Jimin, he wasn’t interested in me last night. Do you know how much I spent just to talk to him, yes just talk I didn’t want to see him for a lap dance.” Jimin waited silently. “60 million won…”
“Jeon Jungkook!” He couldn’t hold back the volume and once again he had winced. He took a bite of his stew before he continued. “I clearly can’t let you go unsupervised with your wallet.”
“Your fault for taking me last night.” He shot back. The both of them continued to eat their stew and as soon as it was finished they both got up to clean up. Jimin began to feel a whole lot better thanks to the magic stew, he then got to his magical styling work and began to sort out an outfit for his friend. They also decided him going tonight would not be smart, he got super wasted and the last time he was unsupervised he almost went home with some random guy.
The day sped by and after many outfit changes and almost changing his mind, he was in the car. Jimin had gotten a ride home already and had left Jungkook alone with his thoughts. He of course gave his friend a pep talk before leaving. He wasn’t sure why it was needed, he wasn’t going for anything other than Vante’s request, or that is what he kept telling himself.
Now here he was parking where he parked yesterday. He glanced at the time and let out a shaky sigh. It was 6:40, he was a little too early. It worked out though so he could sit there and mentally prepare himself. Nothing was going to happen between him and Vante, he wasn’t sure why he was acting like this. He glanced at the time again and he knew now was the time to go in. With a deep sigh and telling himself mentally he could do this he got out of the car.
He approached the entrance and avoided all the eyes staring him down as he walked past them in the general admission line. He knew he reached the VIP line when he saw only ten people standing there. He got in the back and it wasn’t even two minutes until he came face to face with the bigger buff and bald bouncer wearing a pair of sunglasses. “Name.”
Jungkook realized he was staring before he shook out of it and spoke. “Jeon Jungkook. I’m here for Vante.”
The bouncer stopped and gave, what Jungkook could only assume a hesitant look. “You? Here for Vante?”
He had to admit he took offense to it. “Yes sir. He told me to come meet him here at 7.”
The bouncer hummed as he looked at his list and double-checked it a couple of times. “Sir it seems that either he lied to you or you are lying to me-“
“Beomseok… come on now you think I’d lie to a paying customer.”
Both Jungkook and the bouncer whipped their heads back to look at Vante. Fans in the general admission line noticed and got all excited. Vante was one of their more popular performers so it was no surprise to see all these people acting up. “Oh sir… maybe it was a mistake…”
Vante shook his head before he turned his gaze to Jungkook. There he goes again with those beautiful eyes stealing Jungkook’s breath away. He wore contacts covering up his natural color, it was a natural grey. His eyes popped with the eye makeup that fit his features perfectly. “Right on time Mr. Jeon. Come on in.” The bouncer removed the rope and allowed Jungkook to walk in. He resisted the urge to smirk at the other feeling victorious as Vante grabbed his hand and led him inside.
It was the same as last night, loud and crowded. A few female strippers were dancing to some song that led heavily with the bass. The bar was filled with thirsty patrons, while the bartenders hurried to accommodate everyone in fast and skilled movements. Now and then too you could hear a cheer from the crowd. All of that chaos didn’t matter though as they walked into the private room that Vante must have specifically prepared. The second they were in the room and the door was closed it was quiet and calm, just how Jungkook liked it.
“Did you want a drink?” Vante asked the other removing his robe nonchalantly. The second he did Jungkook saw his get up tonight. The smallest shorts once again hugged his waist and ass so perfectly. A purple fishnet top sat on his torso, completely useless as it wasn’t covering anything. It was cropped as well going right below his chest. Jungkook had realized then how long he was staring before Vante cleared his throat.
“Oh uh sure… just- just surprise me.” He said with a small smile.
The other nodded before strolling over to the phone in his at least five-inch heels. He pressed a few numbers before allowing it to ring. “Hey, it’s Vante, just two drinks for me and my guest in private room four, please. Please surprise us, thank you.” He ended the call and walked back over. He signaled the other to have a seat and Jungkook listened immediately. He watched as Vante sat across from him before it was just silence.
Jungkook felt his leg begin to bounce lightly and he fiddled with his fingers. “Vante… why am I here?” He asked softly. It had been on his mind ever since the invite from the other earlier in the day. Vante almost seemed against him, not trusting of him. It made sense with all these disappearances and all.
Vante eyed him for a second before he sighed. “I was hoping to get our drinks before I brought this up but I suppose now is a good time.” He then crossed his legs. “I wanna make a deal… a proposal perhaps if you’d be willing to hear me out.”
Jungkook felt his businessman mode snap into play as soon as he heard this. “You are asking a CEO for a proposal? This better be good, I am strict you know.”
Something changed in Vante’s face when Jungkook said it the way he did. He recovered quickly however and kept a cool look on his face. “I am sure you are.” He said before he continued with said proposal. “I am intrigued by you Mr. Jeon, none of my customers have ever intrigued me the way you do. Which is what brings me to this proposal. You need a break from work now and then and I could use the break from all the perverted men who grab my ass every second. When you wanted to just talk to me yesterday for that whole hour, and spent all that money? No one has gone out of their way to do that.”
Jungkook raised a brow. “So you want me to come and talk to you every month?”
Vante stared at the other his eyes serious and almost another emotion but it was hard to tell. “What do you think I am asking you for Mr. Jeon?”
The silence lingered between the two and Jungkook could not understand what it is the other wanted. Maybe he was missing something, maybe it was a trick question instead and he was trying to fool him. “Sounds to me you like to talk to me-”
“Has work made you so dense you can’t understand when a man is asking for something more?” He stood up and walked slowly over to the other before he placed himself in his lap and stared deep into his eyes. That emotion he couldn’t figure out came out right then and there. It was very much obvious what the other had wanted and he let out a breath. “No attachments. No strings. Just you and I. In the bedroom… do we have a deal?”
The both of them got caught up in the moment and they started to lean close to each other. “Weren’t you the one to say no sex?” He asked the other as his eyes looked right into the others.
“A man can change his mind, for special reasons…” He then was inches away, almost kissing him, but a knock came at the door and Vante pulled back quickly and removed himself. “Come in!”
One of the bartenders Jungkook recognized from the bar walked in with their drink order. “Where would you like this?”
Vante pointed silently at the table and they both stood there awkwardly until the bartender was gone. Vante moved to grab the drinks. He was fully aware of the stare the other was giving him, but he acted casual as he came back. “So… you in?” The drink was handed to him and Jungkook took it with a small ‘thank you.’
“On one condition.” He said looking up at the other. “A smart businessman wouldn’t accept a business proposal without a contract. I can have my assistant or me even write one up. You can come to my office on Monday. Sign it there.”
The other sat down and crossed his leg across from him. “You won’t rope me into some kind of scam, will you?”
Jungkook chuckled at the other. “As long as you read the fine print and accept all terms there is no scamming here.I am a fair man, Vante. When it comes to something like this I assure you all will be fair.”
Vante sipped at his drink while eyeing the other for a minute before smirking softly. “Very well.”
“Then I am in.”