Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

"Jimin-ssi, isn't it too early for a nap?", Seokjin is walking towards them now. Jeongguk only spares him a look and his eyes gravitate to the 'angel' again. 'Jimin' rubs his eyes and yawns.

"I stayed up practicing until 5 am for a performance.", Jeongguk pays attention to his words a lot. Performance... so he must be like Seokjin hyung. Jeongguk thinks to himself.

"Jimin, rest.", Seokjin chides.

"I just did.", Jimin answers and Seokjin tuts.

"When did you last eat?", Seokjin asks. Angel seems to be thinking, focusing on the floor and then he looks at where Jeongguk stands, prolly only realizing now that him and his Jin hyung are not alone.

"7 pm last night.", Jimin answers Seokjin. "And hello, Jin hyung brought a friend?", He asks looking at Jeongguk's face now.

Jeongguk shouldn't feel embarrassed but he feels so small. Jimin looks at him intently and there's this small voice in Jeongguk that tells him to shy away from such a stare. Everyone makes him feel ashamed for the recent happenings in his life, mocking stares, but with Jimin, his stare wasn't like that at all. It's not the 'poor kid, prolly gonna die a virgin if it wasn't for Stephanie's kiss' stare but more of like 'you're someone I don't know' one. And Jeongguk doesn't know how to feel about it.

"He's my cousin. Jeon Jungkook. From Building C, studying Computer Science.", Seokjin introduces. He's coming back to where Jeongguk is currently standing, hand no longer empty.

"Jeongguk, meet the theater department's Bella Donna, Park Jimin.", Seokjin comes close to Jimin and messes with his hair. Jimin tries to grasp Seokjin's arms while chuckling.

Jeongguk doesn't know how to react because it feels very intimate. Reminds him of how Junghyun would also do that whenever Jeongguk would get perfect exam scores when he was in middle school and high school. Or maybe he just doesn't know Seokjin too much. Too used to his almost mannequin-like expressions when he's at a family gathering. You can't really be too happy in high society. Right now, Seokjin and Jimin look like they're characters in a picture book, portraying a one page scene.

"Where's your dad by the way?", Seokjin asks, halting his ministrations on Jimin's hair.

"Somewhere here. I have been asleep since 5, haven't checked phone.", Jimin answers.

"And that's why I don't like it when you exert yourself too much. You could have been the normal human being and could have gotten up like normal."

"What exactly is normal?", Jimin jokes. Jeongguk would agree. If people from the Building C are all like his cousin and Jimin, the world would be a fairytale.

"I have a surprise dance performance tomorrow, hyung. I needed the practice.", Jimin reasons. "You know how Dad takes 'pride'", Jimin air quotes. "in my dancing. Wants me to represent.", He then points at Seokjin. "And you and Nana noona at the acting.", He adds.

"That's why I need to talk to him. Just a few clarifications.", Seokjin says. "Nana told me her class will end at 4. I got all the time to practice while she's out, might as well start after lunch."

Jimin pulls his hair back and Jeongguk observes his movements. People can look good doing that? Jimin looks cute earlier with the bed head. He might not like being called cute so why was he loosely using the word with someone he just met? Now, after Jin's messing with his hair and him pushing it back, it's coming out as messy-attractive in Jeongguk's eye. As expected of the creator of art people, they're art themselves. Without even knowing so (and trying so).

Jeongguk observes Jimin's choice of clothing. He's wearing a white silk button up and black slacks. The style is definitely simple but he makes it look good. Low effort and yet elegant-looking. There's a few buttons undone from the top. Jeongguk stares. Which he shouldn't do because it'll be weird if he got caught.

Jimin is checking his phone. Scrolling through it and then tapping, his small fingers (for such a handsome? pretty? person, he's got some really adorable features) working.

"Dad's currently having lunch, Jin hyung.", He informs Seokjin.

"Guess I'll just talk to him later when I come back.", Seokjin sighs.

"Don't be so stressed, hyung.", Jimin takes hold of Jin's hand and squeezes it. Jin just smiles with a scrunched up face. "I cursed when I heard Nana's message already. You're too late to remind me.", Seokjin answers. Jimin chuckles.

"Am gonna get lunch with my cousin, do you want to come?", He asks Jimin. He also looks at Jeongguk to silently inform him of his plans. What a traitor. He didn't even asked Jeongguk if he's okay with this. For all he knows, Jeongguk could go aloof while they're eating and he could stay as still as a statue while Jimin and him converse through lunch. Jeongguk will panic, would probably excuse himself to the bathroom if Jimin stares at him while eating. The horror of it makes his tummy feel weird.

"Are you sure? I don't want to interrupt", Jimin asks Seokjin. Oh yes, you may cause me stroke, Jeongguk thinks. Jimin looks at him suddenly and he's got this expression like he's shy. "Jeongguk-ssi might be uncomfortable." , Jimin adds.

"No such thing." Jeongguk panics with every word coming out of Seokjin’s mouth. Oh you don't know that Seokjin hyung! I'm barely hanging on here!

"Don't you think you and Jimin would get along well?" , Jimin laughs awkwardly. Of course, not! Can't you read the situation, Seokjin hyung???

Unable to answer on time, Seokjin drags Jimin with one of his hands and Jeongguk was towed by the other. Both younger kids are forcefully dragged to Seokjin's car, the two of them got their head down and is just letting Seokjin lead them. Seokjin brings Jeongguk to the passenger seat while Jimin in the back of the car. He drives away from their college with a smile.

"What music do you listen to, Jeongguk-ah?" , Seokjin asks, eyes trained on the road ahead.

"P-pop. U-Uh... Uhm... Some of Justin Bieber's songs.", Jeongguk is caught off guard so he stutters as he answers Seokjin's inquiry.

"Not so bad, you like foreign music, I see." , Seokjin comments. "Want to take charge of the music? Connect your phone to my car's audio settings." , He taps a few things to help out Jeongguk, instructing him how to do it while also driving.

"Connected to JARVIS…", the car's speaker announced. Jeongguk goes red.

"JARVIS, like Iron Man's trusty AI?" , Seokjin questions.

Jeongguk panic scrolls through his phone and selects a playlist in his Spotify account. Songs you can play with other people, the playlist name. He taps that and plays it on shuffle. A song from Clairo plays, Sofia.

Seokjin seems appeased by the song playing so he doesn't talk anymore, humming to the song every now and then. Jeongguk knows there's a third person behind them but he's too scared of new people (and said new people just happens to be good-looking) so he stays still in his seat. He looks outside his window and observes the houses, buildings and shops they pass by.

Jimin is so quiet, Jeongguk thinks. If he didn't know there are three people in the car, he'd think there's no one behind him. So ridden by his curiosity, he dares to peek behind with the mirror. Jimin got his eyes close, dozing off, body relaxed and making good use of the headrest. He looks at peace.

"Sorry for suddenly inviting him out of nowhere." , Seokjin apologizes in a hushed tone. "He always overexerts himself when he got showcases and I know he wants to do well tomorrow, especially since it's been decided in such short notice." , Seokjin looks at Jimin with a soft gaze. "He's been always like that, our hardworking, Park Jimin." , He says fond. "We all want to take care of him since he can't do it well himself. Don't tell him I said that though." , Seokjin winks at him and brings one of his hands near his mouth, smiling and pleading with his gesture.

"I-It's okay." , Jeongguk whispers back. He doesn't say anything more and just focuses his eyes on the road.

They arrived at Cilantro, a cozy restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. The place is filled with plants, large glass windows that show the inside, dining nooks with eco-friendly elements that can cater to a solo or a group. There are a few customers who are already munching on their lunch inside. The shop's menu is displayed right next to the entrance, offering Spanish dishes.

Jeongguk follows closely to Seokjin, Jimin slowly walking behind them and looking at the place leisurely. Seokjin woke him up when he got to park his car earlier. Jimin was in deep sleep the whole ride and Jeongguk can see the difference in his steps compared to when he was dragged by Seokjin. It's got more energy now.

An employee greets them as they come inside the restaurant and leads them to a corner seat with an overview of the whole place. The employee hands them the menu and Seokjin starts asking them what they want to eat. Jeongguk doesn't miss the long stare the waiter directs to Seokjin and Jimin, especially the latter. He's looking at him funny. Jeongguk can swear he sees heart eyes.

Jimin isn't familiar with the dishes so Seokjin tells him what is the content of each one and what's considered the shop's best-seller. Jeongguk listens too because he's not sure which one to get despite knowing the dishes. Jeongguk knows Seokjin is a foodie so he can trust his choices at least. Seokjin decides fast, sensing that Jimin and Jeongguk won't be giving a definite answer to his question. He orders the Spanish omelet, Sopa de Ajo (which makes Jeongguk raise an eyebrow but Seokjin assures him it's not for him but for Jimin and Jeongguk), Croquetas, Paella and Cochinillo Asado. He tells the waiter of his allergies so the guy nods understandingly and tells them it'll take about fifteen minutes and then he excuses himself.

"Dad texted me to ask where am I." , Jimin informs Seokjin as he looks at his phone. "I told him I'm out with you." , Seokjin nods. "What time is your class, Jeongguk-ah?" , Seokjin looks at Jeongguk who is also looking at his phone.

"Around 2 o'clock." , He answers. "Okay, Is it okay to drop you off at your building before 2?" , Seokjin asks.

"Yes, I was hoping I could read a bit before the class starts." , his cousin smiles at him.

"Always the studious kid you are." , Seokjin is smiling until it turns into sad. His cousin is looking at nothing in particular and then he sighs. Jeongguk directs his attention back to his phone.

Before the fifteen minute mark, their food arrives and Seokjin encourages the younger kids to eat to their hearts content. Jimin nods and thank the heavens for the food in front of them before taking bites of the dishes. Seokjin joins him so Jeongguk also starts to eat. Seokjin and Jimin converse about their performance plans and Jeongguk silently listens. He answers meekly when Seokjin asks if the food is to his liking and if he ever has a cuisine he's craving for. Every now and then he'll look at Jimin to observe him but still cautious of it, not wanting to come off as a creep to the stranger.

It's when Jimin leaves for the comfort room to freshen up that Seokjin asks him the same question he sent last night.

"Are you... okay, Jeongguk-ah?" , Seokjin hesitates. Jeongguk knows where this is going.

"Jeongguk-ah, you..." , Seokjin stares at him straight on his eyes. "You're an intelligent kid, okay? So you should never be ashamed of it. Never be ashamed for it." , he pats Jeongguk's shoulders. Jeongguk feels seen suddenly. Seokjin wants to comfort him, probably why he wants to treat him to lunch today. Jeongguk gulps and stares at Seokjin. His cousin saw the drama yesterday.

"I-I'm okay, Jin hyung." , he assures him. He's not okay with it at all but making his cousin worry isn't good. He knows better than to involve other people with his own concerns.

Seokjin sighs quietly and pats him more. "Just know I'm here, Jeongguk-ah. And that whatever you do, I'll look after you. Like Junghyun does." , he adds. Junghyun did say to Jeongguk before that Seokjin is the hyung Jeongguk can rely on once he leaves the country to take on the family's business. Junghyun never did left Jeongguk alone though despite the distance. He always calls to inform him of his endeavors and to ask about Jeongguk's. Jeongguk actually feels guilty that his brother only hears about his gaming adventures and not actual adventures.

Yoongi being a struggling college student made plans of going out almost non-existent. They just really never bonded like that. Jeongguk chose to listen to Yoongi play piano for hours because it's the only thing Yoongi loved aside from studying to graduate and graduating to actually land a job and becoming an impossible millionaire. Yoongi loves money second to his first love, music. Jeongguk can't say the same, he loves... what? What does Jeongguk have in his heart? He still hasn't figured it out yet.

"I'll be fine, Jin hyung." , Jeongguk makes sure that his tone is absolute. Seokjin is baffled by this, he expected his cousin to be shaken, to show some vulnerability but he finds fire in his eyes instead. Jimin appears by their table cutting their conversation short.

"Shall we go? I still have to meet Dad." , Jimin says. Seokjin nods and they leave the restaurant.

Jeongguk follows Seokjin closely again but now Jimin isn't lagging behind anymore. He's by Jeongguk's side now but still a few inches of space between them. Jeongguk can smell the same almond and vanilla scent earlier, it's really mild. He braves a look to his side and Jimin happens to be looking at him.

Jeongguk can feel all his blood comes up to his face. This is what he gets for always being curious, driven by his wonder in everything.

"Do you have an account?" , Jimin shows him his phone that has his X account. Jeongguk feels panic-stricken but he wills not to embarrass himself with the boy in front of him. He nods (if he speaks, he’ll surely stutter) while trying to keep eye contact. He notices a few details in his face, how he has a small nose, a mole on his forehead, luscious plump lips, and eyes that could send you to paradise. Maybe the last part was him swooning but who is there even to hear his thoughts?

"Type it here, I'll follow you." , Jimin hands him the phone and smiles. Jeongguk doesn't know what brought this interaction to happen. He's been nothing but timid while Seokjin talks to Jimin and he has not said a single sentence that deems him friendly to the boy. Why is Park Jimin asking him about him?

Jeongguk types his username and brings Jimin’s phone back to him. Jimin taps his phone a few times and then closes it. “I’ve followed you. I hope you don’t mind.” , he informs. Jeongguk just nods, too shocked with what just happened. Only Yoongi, some of his classmates and a few Information Technology department kids follow him. Seokjin and Im Jin Ah with their private accounts. Jimin being an addition to that is a disturbing fact.

Seokjin leads them to his parked car and they get inside like how it was before, Jimin on the back seat and Jeongguk by the passenger. Seokjin asks Jeongguk to play songs again as he drives back to school. He tries to hide the smiles brought by the pleased feeling he gets everytime Jimin sings along to some of the songs playing.

They arrive at his building 30 minutes before his scheduled class. Seokjin waves him goodbye and Jimin just nods at him.

He texts Yoongi instantly.

Jeongguk: Hyung, I think I have a plan.
He waits for Yoongi’s reply. There’s a notification after a minute.
Yoongi: Finally some fucking progress.
Tell me when do we kidnap her.
Jeongguk furrows his eyebrows.
Jeongguk: Hyung, stop being obsessed with the idea of jail and me?
Yoongi: I don’t see why not
Jeongguk rolls his eyes.
Jeongguk: I got a plan.
Yoongi: so u said
Jeongguk: stop being annoying!!! >:(
Jeongguk: so like, do you know Park Jimin?
Yoongi: Guk-ah, everyone knows Park Jimin.
Jeongguk: erm… I used to not.
Yoongi: ?
as expected of you tho :)
Jeongguk: what is that supposed to mean???
Yoongi: it is what it is, you’re brighter than this, Guk-ah
Jeongguk: Anyway, so Park Jimin.
I will befriend him.
Yoongi: the chances of getting jailed is more viable
Bye, lil missy here is asking about notes, gotta work

Jeongguk spends the remaining time before his class spamming Yoongi with texts.

“Jeongguk-ah, sweetheart.” , Jeon Hyemin calls out.

Both of Jeongguk’s parents are present tonight for dinner. They ask Jeongguk about his day like the usual and then talk about business which Jeongguk tries to understand (there’s a few names he knows about when they were talking about shares but a few new ones he heard for the first time today). When they’re done, Mrs. Seon and Ms. Byul clear up the dining table, his parents thanking them for the good meal.

“Your dad and I will be going to a fundraising event tomorrow held by your university. I think your cousin, Kim Seokjin, will be performing.” Oh… the surprise performance.

“Yes, I think he told me earlier.” , Jeongguk answers.

“Oh? You’re spending time with Seokjin now? Have you two gotten close?” , his mom inquires, smiling. Jeongguk nods.

“He just invited me for lunch.” Jeongguk’s father approvingly nods with this information from Jeongguk.

“That’s good. Dami’s son, how is he?” , his father asks.

“He’s been very kind, Seokjin hyung.” Jeongguk assures his parents. His parents seem delighted. "He treats me to good food." , Jeongguk adds. Jeon Donghyun, Jeongguk's father, looks relieved. Hyemin holds his hand.

"I'll do some readings, Mom, Dad." , Jeongguk stands up from his chair and excuses himself, wanting his parents to have time to themselves. They both nod at him and dismiss their son.

He's out the dining room when his phone vibrates and sounds.

Ping.

'Kim Seokjin has sent you a message.'

He opens it.

Seokjin: Jeongguk-ah, are you free tomorrow?

Something is off. He thinks. Is it the tie? It's plain blue. Is it his dress shirt? It's red and polkadots patterned. He's wearing a striped patterned slacks. Jimin didn't look weird when he wore this style. He's been standing in front of the mirror for a while and he scans his outfit for the seventh time. It just really doesn't look as good as Jimin's. A knock comes to his door.

"Young master, is everything okay?" , he hears Mr. Lee's voice. "We need to leave now."

"Yes!" he replies. He quickly grabs his leather crossbody bag and opens the door.

Mr. Lee smiles at him. They walk along the halls of the Jeon mansion all the way to the courtyard. Mr. Lee walks ahead and readies the Palisade. Jeongguk climbs into the backseat.

"Mr. Lee, can we drop by the flower shop before we head to the university?" , Jeongguk asks.

"Of course, young master. Flores?", Mr. Lee confirms.

"Yes please." , Jeongguk settles into his seat.

He plays with his phone in order to kill time. Seokjin messaged him last night to invite him to his performance. He sent him the program details and told him he has secured Jeongguk a good seat in front of the stage. It's the first time he'll see Seokjin act (and sing, Jeongguk took note of the musical word in Seokjin's and Im Jin Ah's segment of the program) so he's excited. Seokjin never invited him before since Jeongguk was still a high schooler, a completely different world from Seokjin who is already thriving in college. Now that he's in close proximity, Seokjin could invite him to his plays as much as he wants (the older's words to Jeongguk last night). Jeongguk is happy to the new addition to his activities that he can tell Junghyun. The program also has Jimin's name on it, a solo contemporary dance, the performance after Seokjin's and Nana's. Jeongguk tries to tame down the interest but it's hard when it's about the said boy. There's just something about that person that demands attention.

That's why he's the perfect person for his plan. He spent last night explaining to Yoongi how he'll execute his plan to embarrass and dump Stephanie Choi with the use of Park Jimin. First, he'll befriend Park Jimin and make use of the guy's popularity. This way, Stephanie Choi can take notice of Jeongguk. And then once Stephanie gives him attention, he'll make her fall inlove with him and then dump her at Winter ball, which happens in February (Yoongi told him). It's currently mid-October and he has a few months to make it happen. Yoongi thinks he's delusional and crazy but also a genius for raking Park Jimin into this. Although he's not sure yet about the participation of said man but he badly needs to make this work. Yoongi barely believed him when he said he had lunch with said Park Jimin but was stunned as Jeongguk sent him a picture of the guy sleeping at his cousin's car. How the fuck did you get it to happen and why do you have a picture of him? This, Jeongguk simply answers that his cousin is friends with the school belle and well, for the other question, he chose to ignore it and not respond. Yoongi has enough blackmail material for Jeongguk ever since high school (Jeongguk met Yoongi in high school as this really cool senior, for nerds at least) as it is, him knowing he took a picture of Jimin secretly is definitely not gonna be added to the list. So Yoongi 'entertains' the idea like he said he would and told him to just message him if he needed help (in which case, he probably will, a lot).

The car stops in front of Flores, Jeon Hyemin's favorite flower shop. Jeongguk leaves the car and comes inside the familiar shop. An old woman carefully arranges the flowers in rows, humming the love song playing on the radio. Jeongguk rings the bell and the old woman looks at the counter area. She smiles as she takes sight of Jeongguk.

"Ah, yes, young master Jeon, what brings you here today? Getting some tiger lilies for your mom?" , she asks in a cheerful tone. Despite her age, she's never grumpy and always smiles at her customers. This is one of the reasons why the Jeon family keeps coming back to this flower shop. And they sell good and rare flowers too.

"Ah, Granny Sol, I'd like another arrangement. It'll be good if it has yellow roses, and lilies. A small arrangement will do." , Jeongguk smiles. "Certainly, young master. What purpose are they for?" , Granny Sol asks. "Congratulatory flowers, Granny Sol." , Jeongguk answers. Granny Sol gets to work and does the arrangement with ease. Jeongguk watches in awe.

"I hope it's to your liking, young master." , Granny Sol hands him the bouquet. Jeongguk nods appreciatively. "It is, Granny Sol, you're the best!" , he compliments. He pays extra like always, giving Granny Sol the money to buy any snack she wants. "Thank you, I'll get going now, Granny Sol."

He passes by the row of flowers Granny Sol worked hard to make bloom when he notices the sunflowers. It's out of season already and yet Granny Sol can pull off magic to make it available. He stops in front of them.

"Granny Sol!" , he calls out. "Yes, young master?" , Granny Sol answers from the counter.

"One more." , he looks at her bashfully. "I'd like a sunflower arrangement too, please." , Granny Sol raises an eyebrow but chuckles at Jeongguk. "Of course, young master."

"Good luck, young master." , Granny Sol says as she hands him the flower arrangement containing only one sunflower like Jeongguk requested and then she excuses herself and disappears to the back of her shop. Jeongguk is confused with the old woman's actions but Jeongguk can see Mr. Lee out of the driver's seat so he rushes to the car.

Jeongguk is walking the unfamiliar floor of Building C again, reading every room's label in order not to get lost. He remembers vaguely where the performance venue is located. Seokjin's directions through text helping him get his way to the room. When he sees the word "THEATRE" on top of a large opening gate, he quickly makes way through it. There are a lot of people already sitting inside. An usher and usherette checks the tickets before guests can come inside the large hall. Jeongguk shows the image Seokjin sent him (Show this to the usher and usherette, they'll ask who you are and then lead you to your seat. ) and the usher asks for his name. He tells him he's Jeon Jeongguk and he checks his name on a list. When he finds it, he asks Jeongguk to follow him and they walk through the long rows of the theatre. They stop at the first row and the usher point to the seat reserved for Jeongguk. It's a good seat that can show everything that is happening on stage. Seokjin provided him a VIP seat.

"Uhm, could you... uh, deliver these to Kim Seokjin?" , he asks as he hands the usher the roses and lilies bouquet he brought. The usher nods smiling. "And this..." , the sunflower bouquet. "To P-Park Jimin." , he shyly brings it to the usher. They nodded again and received the flowers.

When the guests are all seated, the lights dim down and a master of ceremonies greets everyone who attended the event. He explains how every penny fundraised and collected through the event will be given to student scholars in Busan and for students in low income families. A school for art is under discussion to be built yet. A positive step for free education and supporting and promoting artistry in the country. Important people do their speeches and Jeongguk listens to them knowing his mom and dad are somewhere behind him.

The emcee introduces Park Minho, the theatrical troupe's director. Jeongguk recognizes him as Jimin's father. The one they needed to meet as they came back to Building C. Jimin's father is a professional, word fluent and he sells his kids well to a big crowd. He calls on to his beloved students and they form a line behind him. Jeongguk notices Kim Seokjin (face sculpted to perfection), Im Jin Ah (the gorgeous noona who always stays by Seokjin's side on family events), and Park Jimin (yesterday couldn't compare to the Park Jimin of today, Jeongguk can see a halo materializing on the top of his head, he looks so innocent in his white clothes).

Park Minho takes his time calling out their names, the crowd clapping really loud at Seokjin and Nana's introduction, a collective gasp occurs when Jimin steps up front to wave at the crowd. His father smiles at him, proud. "And with introductions done, I hope you enjoy today's performances. This is Magic Makers Theatrical Group of Seoul's Institute of Scholars." , everyone bows. Huge applause fills the hall.

The curtain falls and the hall quiets down.

The time the curtains opens again, a living room set-up is now on the stage. When Seokjin appears, Jeongguk can hear fangirls squealing from the back seats. Jeongguk can't blame them, his cousin looks really good right now. Like a prince from a royal family. He delivers his lines with no stutter and shows the most appropriate expressions for every emotion. Nana makes her appearance and the crowd continues to be awed with the two actors on set. Music plays and their voices are as perfect as their visuals. They portray two dreamers who wants to make it big someday in the acting world but both has their own secrets to keep, Seokjin being a child of a criminal but being born with the purest heart and Nana being a single mom despite being the hottest idol of the generation. Their worlds collide when Nana gets an acting gig and Seokjin happens to be the main lead. Seokjin falls in love with Nana and so did Nana but she got a kid to take care of and always prioritize so she rejects Seokjin. Add to that the crazed fans she got for being an idol. Seokjin, determined to only love Nana, finds out about her secret when he follows her to her home so they can talk about their relationship. Seokjin manages to convince Nana that he can court her, so he does, and Nana falls in love more with Seokjin so she shares on her secret. Seokjin struggles in sharing his secret to Nana because his was heavier, more controversial if it gets spread. They have their good days until Nana gets harassed by reporters when an article of her having a kid gets published. Seokjin comforts Nana in every way he can but Nana is too grief-stricken, too anxious for her child's life. Seokjin stays through it all; loving Nana in every worst possible case to happen to her (she loses fans, gets death threats, gets angry and degrading messages from male fans). Nana could end it all by taking her own life, she believes but Seokjin stops him.

Jeongguk didn't know the plotline would be this heavy but Seokjin, Nana, and the wholeness of the troupe are such great actors he can't look away from what's being shown in front of him.

Seokjin reminds Nana every day that she is perfect, she is loved and that nobody can ever be Jung Solhee (Nana's character). Despite being hated on, Nana continued working and shining. She reminds herself (with Seokjin's words) that she's beautiful and her child is beautiful, and nobody could ever darken a soul like hers. A positive headline gets spread talking about how Nana, despite being a single mom and a full-time idol was able to raise a 6 year old kid with the best manners and best grades for her age. Some netizens even found her child pretty, commenting how Nana's genes are so powerful and how Sarang (the kid) is the ideal child a parent could ever ask for. Seokjin actually orchestrated the news articles for that but it did bring back and even attracted mother fans to Nana. Within a year, she rises back to fame. It ends with a good note when Seokjin finally reveals his secret to Nana and Nana promises to keep the secret to her grave. They still keep their relationship a secret (mostly because Seokjin got blackmail material against reporters) and gets to live comfortably with their dreams still within reach.

Jeongguk thinks the ending is too positive but knowing how it ended with a good finish is something his heart can appreciate. Seokjin and Nana has long gone inside and the set is now empty. It's when the lights darken and music stops that Jeongguk's and everyone's attention is brought back to the stage.

A figure emerges from the side, completely clothed in white. It's Park Jimin. He's holding a long piece of cloth. He stands in the middle and covers his body with it. And then he starts moving. Jeongguk's jaw almost drops to the floor. With the mesmerizing maneuvering of the cloth, Jimin's body was moving (flowing) like water. Jimin was made to dance contemporary. Every gesture graceful, limbs fluid-like, movements showing emphasis on lyrics and his eyes, it's not the same as yesterday. This Jimin has siren eyes. So deep, Jeongguk can drown on it.

Jeongguk had to catch his breath. Seokjin didn't warn him about this at all. Something in him was getting swayed. He's not sure what it is, can't pinpoint what's bringing the influx of emotions as he stares at the boy in front of him. The performance ends too fast for his liking. He wishes he caught Jimin dancing on camera. If he could come back to the time he first saw Jimin's dancing, he would.

Jimin breathes heavily as he poses for his ending. Loud claps surround the hall and Jeongguk can hear shouting too. Jimin bows in all directions. Smile so pretty, Jeongguk can't breathe.

The curtain falls.

To end the program, the emcee thanks everyone who came, paid special attention to his parents, Jeon Hyemin and Jeon Donghyun who contributed most to the donations. The troupe bows to his parents. His parents' eyes mostly on Seokjin. They look really proud of his cousin and Jeongguk feels the same for his Jin hyung. He didn't know theater would be this... magical. Jeongguk notices the bouquet he bought on Seokjin's arms. He smiles. Seokjin then looks at his direction as if sensing his eyes on him and Jeongguk smiles wider. His cousin waves at him, smiling and he waves back.

He makes the mistake (is it really?) of glancing at Jimin's direction and he can see the boy being congratulated by his dad. He holds tight to the sunflower bouquet, hugging it instead of holding it. There's a funny feeling in Jeongguk's chest. How weird. He doesn't remember a track record of heart attack in his family. He feels weird.

Hyemin and Donghyun talks to Director Park for a bit and then comes down from the stage. Jeon Donghyun spots him. They come to Jeongguk's side.

"Hi, sweetheart. You didn't say you'll come." , Hyemin greets.

"Mom.” , He greets and hugs her. “I was invited by Seokjin hyung last night. I didn't have any plans." , Donghyun puts an arm around him.

"He's a kind kid. In addition to that, your cousin did so wonderful." , His mom comments. Jeongguk nods enthusiastically.

"Dami's son and Hosu's daughter were a sight. Maybe the next family event can have them performing, what do you say, love?" , Donghyun asks Hyemin. Hyemin laughs.

"I think Seokjin hyung would love that, Dad." , Jeongguk says. And I have this feeling Seokjin hyung would love to show it to his parents too, he thoughts.

People scurry out of the theatre hall. The Jeon family stays behind as business partners actually come up to his parents to talk a bit. Jeongguk stays close but plays with his phone. He's stays seated scrolling through X when he sees Jimin's post. There's a picture of him with the sunflower bouquet. The caption says "🌻" and he's smiling. Jeongguk smiles too.

A figure stands before him and he sees Seokjin in front. His cousin messes with his hair.

"How was it?" , he asks.

"It was... amazing." , Jeongguk wishes it's enough to express his sincerity. His cousin seems to appreciate the compliment and grins wide.

"Thanks for the flowers!" , Seokjin side hugs him. Guess his cousin is indeed clingy. He accepts it nevertheless.

"I'm glad you liked it, hyung."

"Seokjin." , Hyemin greets. It seems his parents are done with the partners. Seokjin bows to Jeongguk's parents. Hyemin hugs him and he hugs back politely. "You did so well up there." , Donghyun compliments. Jeongguk can see Seokjin's ears turn red. He laughs at the small detail.

"Thank you, uncle. It's the only talent I can be proud of." , Seokjin jokes.

"Aiya, no such thing, Seokjin." , Hyemin argues. "Three of us here can guarantee you that you do well in other areas too." , she encourages.

"Auntie, you flatter me." , Jeongguk can see Seokjin's ears turn even redder. He really can't take compliments too well.

"It's decided you and Nana will perform for us comes Christmas Ball then." , Seokjin laughs. "It's still too early, uncle."

"We're just opening possibilities, Seokjin." , Seokjin shakes his head laughing. "I'll have to convince Nana, uncle."

"Hosu's daughter will agree. I just have to convince her." , Donghyun says.

"Uncle, Nana would think of it as pressure. I don't want that at all, uncle." , Seokjin pleads. His parents laugh. "Alright, I'm just opening the option, okay? How's Dami doing?" , Jeongguk's father asks.

"She's doing very well, uncle. Traveling here and there. She's been everywhere." , Jeongguk watches his cousin's expression turn sad. He quickly masks it with a smile after. His parents didn't notice it.

"My dear sister can never be tied down to her home." , Donghyun jokes. Seokjin laughs, a fake one. Jeongguk can tell. "Come eat at home when you visit, Seokjin. We'd love to serve you something to your liking." , Hyemin invites.

"I'll take up on that offer soon, Auntie." , Seokjin assures Hyemin. Hyemin smiles.

"It was nice to perform for family. I'll be going back to our lounge now to meet with Director Park." , Seokjin stares at Jeongguk. "Talk to you later." , Seokjin excuses himself from the Jeons.

"Let's go home." , Donghyun says. Jeongguk follows his parents to the exit.

Seokjin: sent a photo.
Nana said it's unfair that you gave me flowers and she had none from you.

Seokjin sent a photo of Nana and him. Nana is pouting while Seokjin holds his bouquet. Jeongguk chuckles.

Jeongguk: Don't tell her but i forgot.
And I know noona received too many already.
Seokjin: You're right 😂
I think her car will suffer when she puts all of the gifts inside lol
Jeongguk: Noona can make a flower bed
Seokjin: LMAO JEONGGUK YOU DID NOT
Jeongguk: I'll see you around school, hyung
Seokjin: Okay! Let's have lunch together a lot. I'll even invite Nana.

Jeongguk sends a thumbs up emoji. Seokjin laughs at his response.

He could appreciate it if Park Jimin can have lunch with them too but not knowing anything about him, what he's studying and what his schedule is can be a challenge to Jeongguk's plans.

He needs to be friends with him, fast.

He scrolls through the older guy's X account. There are thousands of followers as expected. The school belle gets a one thousand average for likes in all recent tweets. He doesn't really have much personal tweets aside from the updates that mostly emphasize he's in a theater group. Jeongguk follows his account. He also likes the sunflower tweet. A big smile graces his lips as he went to sleep.

Yoongi waits for Jeongguk at their usual spot in Building D. A big tree looms over their favorite bench and provides shade to the students on a sunny day. It's been a few days since the fundraising event held at Jin and Jimin's college. Seokjin has been texting him on the daily now but has yet to invite him to lunch. The elder seems to have no free time these days and is spending more time at the theatre hall to practice with the troupe. A week and it'll be November. Jeongguk's time is ticking.

He sits next to Yoongi and he sighs. Yoongi pats his head absent-mindedly as he scrolls through his laptop. "What's bothering you, pup?" , Yoongi asks as he keeps typing.

"Park Jimin has not updated his X account." , Yoongi side eyes Jeongguk at that. " And my cousin has not invited me out to lunch at all because he's so busy." , he whines.

"The way I see it, you're obsessing over Park Jimin." (Am not! Jeongguk shouts.) "And you're bored because your cousin has managed to change your introverted ass in two days." , Jeongguk grimaces. "You've never had a problem wasting your days just sitting here and not talking to me while practicing coding in your laptop." , Yoongi's tapping never halts.

Jeongguk makes a face. Has Kim Seokjin really managed to change the trajectory of his life with a lunch offer and a theatrical play?

"I won't find it a problem if the time I'm wasting is spent actually making my plan come to life." , Jeongguk kicks his feet off the ground. Yoongi stops typing and then pinches his cheek just to annoy him and then types again. "Patience, Jeongguk-ah. It'll come. If the lunch offer doesn't come again, initiate it this time. Your cousin never said he's the only one that can invite you out. Doesn't it work both ways?" , Jeongguk's eyes widen. That's right. How come he never thought of inviting Seokjin out instead? It could have saved time. He facepalms. "That's right. Listen to the wise Min Yoongi." , Yoongi smugly looks at him. Jeongguk rolls his eyes.

They bicker and Jeongguk sometimes asks Yoongi about what he's doing. Yoongi is already on his last year. His internship will start once his thesis is done so he's doing everything he could do to get it out of the way as much as he still has time. Jeongguk knows that Yoongi will be busier comes December so they hang out a lot (although only in school). Ever since Yoongi got the piano teacher job, he's been spending his time between that, his school and 'being Jeongguk's caretaker'. To which Jeongguk smacks him playfully when he said the last part.

Ten minutes before his class, Jeongguk spots a familiar face walking along the hallways of Building D. Yoongi has already gone to his classroom and Jeongguk was about to go to his when he sees Park Jimin looking lost, scanning every room in Building D. He's wearing a cute sailor shirt that has light blue linings and wearing navy blue shorts that has gold buttons. Jeongguk has this urge to squeeze onto something tightly (his poor victim is his thick mathematics book).

He’s been worried he won’t have an encounter again and the deities have given him an opportunity.

Jimin spots him as he got nearer and there's surprise in his face but also relief.

"Hi." , Jimin greets. "Jeongguk-ssi?" , he asks him with a shy smile.

"H-hi." , Jeongguk greets back. Jimin's smile widens.

"I've been looking for the faculty room for a while. Do you know where it is?" , He asks Jeongguk.

"Y-yes. Uh, follow me." , he offers. Jimin nods and stays close to him as they come up the stairs of Building D. "Fancy to meet you while I'm visiting." , Jimin says as he leisurely walks along the halls with Jeongguk. Yeah? Imagine my surprise you came through like the angel you are , he thinks. Jeongguk slows down his pace in accordance to Jimin's. "I-I was about to go to my classroom." , Jeongguk tells him. "But I saw you so I had to confirm if my eyes was playing tricks on me." , Jeongguk adds. Jimin's adorable laugh fills the hall and it sounds like bells in Jeongguk's ears. "A fish out of water." , Jimin agrees. Jeongguk nods at him and so did Jimin so they smile at each other.

"Here we are." Jeongguk points at the door with the "FACULTY" written on it. They're on the third floor. Jeongguk's class is on the other end of this hallway.

"You knock three times to let them know you're a student." , Jeongguk advices. "And then greet them. Before you ask for the teacher you want to talk to." , Jimin nods.

"Thank you, Jeongguk-ssi." , Jimin holds his hand and grips it before releasing it and bowing to Jeongguk. Jeongguk does the same. His ears turning red.

"I'll be going to my class." , He bids goodbye and Jimin waves at him.

He keeps walking until he reaches his Mathematics classroom. He feels giddy all throughout that afternoon and tries to hide the smile that keeps forming in his face as he looks at his hands.

Jeongguk keeps typing and deleting on his phone. He's already at his room, done with the family dinner. Park Jimin's direct message is open in his screen and he's wanted to reach out, ask for his availability this Sunday. Jeongguk needs to stop being shy if he wants his plans to have progress. He just wants to be as confident as Jimin as soon as possible. So he's here, stucked how to start the conversation. He quickly chats Yoongi for some help.

Jeongguk: Hyung, how do you start conversations?
Yoongi: Good evening to you too, Jeongguk.
That's definitely not how you start conversations.
Jeongguk: Sorry, Okay, Good evening, Yoongi hyung
Yoongi: nvm, bring the brat back, this is weird

Jeongguk facepalms. Expect Yoongi to be as annoying as always.

Jeongguk: Hyung, how do I message Park Jimin?
Yoongi: you don't? because why the fuck would you?
Jeongguk: I NEED HIM I TOLD YOU
Yoongi: Okay, calm your ass down, what's with the angry typing?
Jeongguk: because I'm frustrated >:( I've been at his direct message screen for 10 minutes already!!! >:(((
Yoongi: just say hi or something
Jeongguk: what if he doesn't answer?
Yoongi: then don't just say hi
tell him what you want bluntly
Jeongguk: ...
okay hyung, I'll listen to you
Yoongi: good 👍

He tries to compose a text and just listens to Yoongi's advice. No matter the outcome, he's gonna be cool about it. If he rejects his offer, he can just try another day. He exhales loudly, rolls his shoulders back and then focuses on what he's typing.

Jeongguk: hi, thanks for the follow back

He hits send. Okay, one down. He greeted. Now, his intentions.

Jeongguk: i'm just wondering
are you free this Sunday?

Jeongguk waits for Jimin to read his message. The notification comes after a minute. Jimin must be free as of the moment.

Jimin: hey
Jimin: Sunday plans... hmmm...

Jimin's typing bubble keeps on appearing and disappearing.

Jimin: need to check my calendar 😅

Jeongguk holds his breath He prays hard while waiting for Jimin's next message. A few minutes pass by before he chats again. Jeongguk kneels on the ground.

Jimin: ah there's none scheduled 😅 why?

He huffs loudly and stretches his arms. He also makes his neck do cracking sounds.

Jeongguk: Would you like to go to Serin with me?
Jeongguk: I kind of need your opinion
Jimin: opinion about what?

Jeongguk notices Jimin using emojis. It's different to the emojis he uses with Yoongi. He could do the same for Jimin.

Jeongguk: clothes, you're very stylish 🙂

Jimin's reply is instant.

Jimin: your emoji 😅
Jeongguk: ?
Jimin: ah no, I'm not stylish 😅

Jeongguk can't believe Park Jimin considers himself not stylish. He would die on this bed of his defending Park Jimin from his own judgment regarding his fashion taste.

Jeongguk: you're really cool! 🙂
Jimin: 😅
Jeongguk: so, jimin sunbae, do you wanna go? 🙂

Ten minutes passed and Jimin leaves him on read. Is this a fail? Is it really impossible for a nerd like him to hang out with the school belle? He's about to cry when his phone notifies him of a reply. He won't be able to accept the rejection. He's annoyed at himself for being dramatic over it. But this is Park Jimin, pretty smiles, attractive eyes, purest soul. He readies himself and holds his phone. He got his eyes closed and opens one eye to peek at Jimin's reply.

Jimin: ...yes?

Jeongguk jumps. He's thrashing on his bed, screaming muffled by his pillows and his blanket. He's giddy, so excited. Park Jimin said yes. He could cry too from this.

Jeongguk: great 🙂 let's have lunch together, my treat

Jeongguk types this shaking. He hits send. He doesn't realize he sends the message without thinking about it much compared to earlier. He's so relieved by Jimin's willingness to entertain the idea of going out with him.

Jimin: sure... uh bye

He rolls over his bed filled with so much positive energy. He doesn't think he'll get a wink of sleep tonight. He got class tomorrow but so what? Jeongguk is going out with Jimin on Sunday. Jeongguk... eh? Jeongguk is going out with Jimin on Sunday... Jin won't be there. It's just them. He gulps hard.

Is this what you call a… date?

🐥🐇