Chapter Text
Jimin
He’d been staring out of the window for the last five minutes completely zoned out, he could see the sky darkening. The rain was coming and he wanted to be home before it started. He loved the rain, the sound, the heaviness in the air, the scent. His favorite memories featured rain. He loved nothing better than to cuddle into his couch with a candle and his current book. Soft music playing in the background.
He sighed wistfully, he still had an hour to go before his shift ended. He shakes his head and gets back to work when a customer calls out for help. Jimin worked in an auto parts store. It wasn’t glamorous but the pay was decent and the manager worked around his school schedule.
Usually he worked short four to five hour shifts but today was his off day at school so he worked longer. Customer service was a roller coaster everyday, some days he was getting yelled at for something out of his control. Some days he was getting hit on by ladies old enough to be his grandmother.
Today was weird, it was really calm, usually the crazies come out when it rains but so far it has been slow and long.
He finishes up a checkout when he calls for the next person in line, he sees a familiar face, a regular. A sweet young guy named, Wooyoung, that was too earnest for his own good, he's a student who was maintaining his beat up old car.
They spend the next thirty minutes trying to figure out why his car is making a strange sound, as a student Wooyoung can’t afford to take it to a mechanic. So he’s in here frequently fixing his car.
“Jiminie times up.” Jimin’s boss, Yoona, yells out of her office. He shakes his head, exasperated. It’s her way of announcing his time to finish up for the day. He finishes helping his customer, bringing his cash drawer into the office to count down.
“So did you see the signs?” Yoona asks as soon as he starts counting out his pennies. He restarts, trying his best to concentrate.
“Did you?” He saw them but chose to ignore her.
“We’re getting new blood across the street, hopefully some hot young ones.” She says longingly. She was forever trying to find a husband. He couldn’t help his snarky comment.
“How young are we talking? You don’t want to give off cougar behavior.” He says with a smirk. She slaps his arm.
“Shut up you ass!” She snorts, that’s why he likes her so much, she doesn’t take herself too seriously. “Hurry up and finish up. I know you have an appointment with your couch tonight.”
“I knew I loved you for a reason.” Jimin exclaims with extra drama.
“You’re so annoying.” She giggles. Jimin just smiles at her playfully.
Jimin finishes up, gathering his things and walking out the door when it starts raining again heavily. He’s drenched in a matter of seconds. He shrugs it off thankful that he invested in his waterproof backpack when he had the chance. He doesn’t hurry home, enjoying the cool and clean air. Sometimes it helps to walk off the day's stress. People all around him rush to get out of the rain, splashing the water everywhere. He distinctly remembers one of his last memories with his mom, when they got caught in the rain, instead of rushing like everyone else she twirled him a round. Dancing in the rain, raising their faces up to the sky, enjoying the feeling of freedom.
He raises his face up to the sky, his face streaming with water, his smile peaceful as he allows himself to just be in the moment. The feeling fades quickly as a shiver runs up his back, but not from the cold. He starts to walk again but only makes it a few steps. He stops at the crosswalk, glancing over his shoulder at the sudden chill he felt. He shakes it off, hurrying his steps, blaming it on being chilled by the water.
When he makes it home he rushes in, locking his door behind him. He strips off his wet clothes, and leaves out his work shoes to air dry. He showers quickly, changing into his most comfortable hoodie and sweats. He snuggles into his couch and promptly falls asleep.
The next morning he wakes groggy, glancing around at where he fell asleep. His big plans of reading a new book quickly changed to sleep. The feeling takes over when he’s feeling warm and cozy.
He grabs his phone before he makes his way to the kitchen. He had fallen to sleep without eating and his stomach was throwing a tantrum. He checks his messages, responding to a few in his class gc, and then a few from Tae. One unknown number catches his eye, it came in late last night, ‘Hi Baby! I miss you! Call me when you can!”
He has a good idea of who that number belongs to, so without hesitation he blocks it. His ex- boyfriend, Kai, or the Prick as Tae calls him, cheated on him but doesn’t seem to see a problem with that. He liked to throw it back on Jimin as if it was his fault that Kai wasn’t feeling satisfied, ‘Sexually, Emotionally, and Intellectually” were his exact words.
After that truly enlightening conversation, Jimin cut all contact and blocked him from everything he could think of. That was a few months ago, and he could honestly say he felt as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. Kai was such a needy boyfriend, constantly wanting validation. Jimin felt like he needed to be alone for a while, he wanted to feel okay on his own.
He wasn’t looking for anything at the moment, at least not passed friendship at this point. His friends had been worried for him, not wanting him to settle into this “funk” as they liked to call it. But he did let them convince him to keep his dating accounts open, he compromised by adjusting the settings to ‘seeking:Friends” only. It didn’t stop him from receiving some dick pics but the upside is that he had met some cool people recently.
One thing that he had picked back up, is his dancing. Not exactly like before, but he was teaching an advanced dance class. A cross between a dance class and a workout class. He loved it, he still only had the one class that met twice a week but he was happy. He lucked out with his students, most of them were dancers that were looking to get back in shape. A few stragglers here and there that had never danced before but what they lacked in coordination they made up for in determination.
Jumping from the sofa, he quickly picks up the small amounts of clutter. Thinking about the class he had later today, Sunday was the day for his busiest class. All his regular students showed up, most of the time with a friend tagging along. He had planned a really intense workout that he knew would make his students hate him. He smiled evilly, he couldn’t wait.
He went through his normal morning routine, leaving his apartment at 7:45 am, with plenty of time to make it to the studio he held his class at.
Just as he turns to shut and lock his door, he hears a crash coming from inside his apartment. He freezes, with one hand on the knob and the other half raised with the key out. He leans into the door, silently waiting for another sound. His breath catches when he hears a creak.
It sounds as if someone was tiptoeing. Then he hears another creak, and the sudden screech of his sliding glass door opening. He roughly pushes the door open to see a figure jump down from his second story balcony. They disappear before he makes it out onto the balcony. He leans over the rail but sees nothing but empty sidewalk and parked cars in the hazy morning light.
His mind is racing. Nothing like this had ever happened to him. Someone breaking into his home, his sanctuary, with the aim to do who knew what. On autopilot he calls the police, then automatically calls Tae over. He doesn’t even register what is being said, he just knows Tae is on the way, that’s all that matters. He can’t be alone right now. He feels isolated inside his apartment now, so he walks back out into the hallway, leaving the door ajar. The danger is gone but it doesn’t feel safe, he feels chilled to the bone.
Tae arrives before the police, disheveled with his hair standing on end, mismatching shoes,dress pants and silk pajama shirt. He rushes over and hugs Jimin as soon as he sees him. Jimin lets himself lean for a moment, not wanting to break down.
“What happened Minnie?” Tae asks, leaning back to look him over.
“I don’t know. I really don’t. It all happened so fast.” Jimin responds with confusion and fear clear in his voice. Tae opens his mouth to speak again but stops as he looks over Jimin’s shoulder.
Jimin turns to see two police officers walking towards them. He relaxed a bit seeing them. Hopefully they could help restore some semblance of calm in him. The police officers look between him and Tae, correctly guessing that it was Jimin that called. They introduced themselves as Officers Jung and Wang.
“Mr. Park? We have a report of a break in. Could you fill us in on what happened?” Officer Wang asked gently. Which Jimin appreciated.
“Yes officer. Where should I start?” Jimin asks nervously.
“Wherever you feel comfortable.” Officer Jung says soothingly.
“I woke up at about 6:45 am, played on my phone for a bit before tidying up my living room. Sunday is my only day off from work and school, I teach a dance class but otherwise it's my day to catch up on some errands. After cleaning, I showered and ate. I mention all this because I was moving around my house the whole time. The only time I was in one place for long was when I showered but it was no more than ten minutes. I usually shower again when I get home from class so this shower was very short.”
“I didn’t hear anything out of the ordinary. I don't know how long this person was in my home or how they even got in. I lock all my doors and windows, and I live on the second floor. I just don’t understand how this could have happened.” Jimin says distressed. Tae gently rubs his back, doing his best to soothe him. “It all happened so quickly, I had just stepped out into the hallway when I heard something crash inside. I thought it was my imagination. But then I heard creaking, like someone was trying to step quietly, I heard the sliding door screech open and that’s when I pushed the door open to see someone jump down off my balcony. I didn’t see anything other than it was a man and he was wearing dark clothes.” The officers are writing in their notebooks as he speaks, but Jimin feels like they aren’t really taking this seriously.
“Do you know if he managed to take anything?” Officer Wang asks.
“No I didn’t check. I was too scared to stay inside the apartment by myself.” Jimin admits.
“We understand. We’ll just go in and take a look around, if that’s alright with you?” Officer Jung asks gently
“Of course. Please go ahead.” Jimin says, stepping out of the doorway. He allows them to walk in first. He and Tae trailing behind, Jimin sees his apartment with new eyes. It wasn’t the most spacious or elegant but it was cozy and comfortable. The Officers move around the room carefully, not touching anything, stepping over things that had been dropped.
He looked at the things that had been disturbed, seeing only pillows and his school books dropped. But he walks further into his apartment, seeing a photo frame on the floor. That had been the crash he had heard, glass was all over the floor, he already knows the photo that the frame holds. It was his most prized picture, the last picture he took with his parents before they died in a car accident.
It was one of them at the last dance performance he’d ever done. After they died he didn’t have the heart to dance like that anymore. He goes to pick up the frame, but the officers stop him.
“We called a lab technician to come and collect some fingerprints. It’s best to leave things as they are.” Officer Jung explains. “We called them in but we want you to be aware that it takes a while to process evidence of this nature.”
“Yeah there's always a backlog with these kinds of things, and they won’t prioritize your case because they have more urgent cases. As bad as this sounds, this isn’t something that would be considered a case. You had a break in but nothing of value was taken and you weren’t injured.” Officer Wang says bluntly. Officer Jung looks on sadly but nods his head in agreement.
“So what you’re saying is that there is nothing that can be done?” Tae his voice going low and hard with his contained anger.
“Yes. That’s what we are saying.” Officer Wang responds calmly.
“Then what’s the point of bringing your lab techs, if nothing's going to happen.” Tae challenges. Jimin grips his arm tightly but doesn’t try and prevent him from speaking because he wanted the answers too. He just didn’t want Tae doing anything rash like attacking an officer. Jimin wouldn’t put it past him, Tae is notoriously protective of him.
“We can’t be sure if the prints aren’t in the system already. If we get a hit we’ll know who broke into your apartment, making it cut and dry. We’ll be able to arrest him on breaking and entering. But since nothing was stolen it would be a very little punishment.” Officer Wang shrugs, making Jimin feel like such a burden.
The next hour drags on as they wait for a lab tech to arrive, he almost forgets about his class but Tae reminds him to reschedule to later on in the day. He apologizes profusely in his group chat for his class, promising a discount on the class or on a future class if they can’t make today’s class. All of his students are understanding and send him concerned texts but he politely deflects any questions.
He and Tae wait in the hallway as the officers and techs look around his apartment. Jimin truly feels laid bare, his place is being invaded over and over and there’s nothing he can do about it.
When Tae’s stomach starts growling, Jimin makes him leave but Tae refuses. But they compromise, with Tae finally agreeing to go get some food and coming back to eat. Jimin watches him leave with a smile, he’s thankful to have such a good friend.
Tae passes by one of his neighbors coming up the stairs, Jimin sees Tae tense, and pause on the landing of the stairs. He turns as if to come back but Jimin catches his eye, shaking his head. He sees Tae sigh heavily but leave as planned. Jimin watches his neighbor, Jungkook, walk towards him, looking at him curiously. Probably wondering why Jimin was sitting on the floor outside of his apartment.
“Hey Jimin. How’s it going?” Jungkook asks casually.
“Not too good at the moment honestly. I had a break in.” Jimin says, laughing awkwardly. He always managed to get like this around Jungkook.
“Haha… wait you're serious? Are you okay? Were you attacked?” Jungkook asks, worriedly, crouching down to get a look at Jimin. “Did you call the police?”
“No. No. I’m fine. I’m not hurt. Yes, I did call the police. They're actually in there ‘processing the scene’.” Jimin says this with air quotes, feeling derisive about the whole situation.
“Is that not a good thing? They are doing their job.” Jungkook says, sounding a bit defensive. Jimin tries to hold onto the anger that had built inside him but it dissolves as soon as it comes.
“Yeah, they are doing their job, but they pretty much said that there’s nothing they can do. They are just collecting evidence but there won't be an actual investigation because nothing was stolen and no one was injured.” Jimin explains, feeling so let down.
“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to come off so harsh.” Jungkook, patting his shoulder awkwardly. “ Hey, maybe I can help. I’ve done a few ride alongs with some officers. Maybe I can call one of them and see if they can find out anything more.” Jungkook suggests. Jimin looks up at him, the younger boy looks so earnest and eager to help that Jimin agrees to the plan despite his reservations. He didn’t have much trust in the police after this morning.
Before he can get into detail the door to his apartment swings open to show the officers and techs leaving. Jimin stands up hurriedly, feeling warmth at the hand Jungkook holds out to help him up.
“We’ve done all we can at the moment. I’ll give you a call if there are any hits.” Officer Wang says. He moves further out of the way as the techs lug their gear out of his apartment, he watches on despondently. He can’t believe that there is nothing else they can do.
“Jungkook? Is that you?” Officer Jung calls out. Jungkook had stepped to the other side of the door, away from where the police were facing. He must be on good terms with the officers because both of them greet him enthusiastically. The radio attached to their shoulders crackled to life.
“We got a 0911 in progress two blocks from your current location. Can you respond?” The disembodied voice asked.
“10-4. We are wrapping up here. We’ll respond asap.” Officer Wang responds. He gives Jimin a brief nod before walking off towards the stairs. Officer Jung stays back a moment.
“We’ll have to catch up later, Kook.” He says patting Jungkook’s shoulder. He pauses as he passes Jimin. “ I’m sorry we couldn’t be more helpful. I wish I could promise you more but it's out of our hands now. But i would recommend one thing, we couldn’t find a point of entry, so it's best if you get your locks changed. And, maybe add some more secure window locks.” He tips his imaginary hat at Jimin before following the path of his partner.
Tae walks past the officer with a bag in his hand, he can’t contain his glare as the officer nods at him in passing. Tae shows off the bag of Jimin’s favorite cafe. The sweet gesture brought a brief smile to Jimin’s face.
“So what’s the verdict?” Tae asks drolly.
“Nothing’s changed. They still can’t do anything.” Jimin shrugs, accepting his fate.
“Hey I’m sorry about that. I wish I could’ve done more but I will get a hold of the officers I know. Hopefully they’ll be able to do something.” Jungkook says earnestly. Jimin smiles at him gratefully but doesn’t get his hopes up.
“I appreciate that but it's not necessary. You heard them yourself, there’s not much they can do for me. After all I wasn’t attacked and nothing was stolen.” Jimin reminds him. Jungkook shakes his head.
“That’s not right. We can’t give up so easily. I’ve been studying criminal justice for the past two years and the cases no one paid attention to or investigated,were solved because they got bullied into doing it. I personally don’t like this situation.” Jungkook explains his reasoning. “I mean this could be a simple B&E, but it could also be something much more sinister. Do you mind if I take a quick look around?” Jungkook asks, pointing to his apartment. Jimin nods automatically, finding some consolation in someone taking this as seriously as he is. Even if Jungkook is a student he obviously has more experience with these types of situations than he does.
Jimin and Tae follow Jungkook into the apartment, watching as he prowls around the living room. He walks around to all the windows and sliding doors, inspecting them carefully. He walks to Jimin’s bedroom looking at the windows in there but shakes his head, walking back to the living room. He walks out to the balcony, and before Jimin or Tae can say or do anything he climbs over the railing disappearing from sight. It felt like deja vu to Jimin. He had seen the same scene play out in his mind over and over for the last two hours.
He and Tae run over to look over the railing to Jungkook, climbing back up the side of the building. He didn’t look like he was straining, his muscles bulged but he rappelled himself easily enough around the building until he made it to his own balcony two apartments over. He went over the side again making it to the balcony right next to Jimins’. Jungkook walked over to the sliding glass door, and it slid right open.
He came back to Jimin’s balcony, sweating a little but not even out of breath.
“I have three things that I can’t shake. First, is that there are eight apartments on this side of the building, four on the first floor and four on the second floor. Out of those eight apartments, six of them had their sliding doors unlocked. Assuming that yours was locked, right?” Jungkook inquires.
“Yeah I always have it locked. I don’t feel secure otherwise.” Jimin explains.
“That’s what I assumed. You and Mrs. Lee, my next door neighbor, are the same. The other six have mostly male occupants with the exception of your downstairs neighbor being a couple. But nonetheless, they all had their sliding doors unlocked, including myself. On top of that they choose the most exposed apartment, your balcony is right at the entrance of the complex and can be seen from the street.” Jungkook informs him. Jimin hadn’t known that fact, he needed to remember to be more careful what he does when he’s out on his balcony.
“What exactly are you getting at here, man?” Tae asks. Reminding Jimin of his manners.
“Oh shit. I’m sorry, I didn’t even introduce you. Jungkook, this is my best friend Taehyung. Taehyung this is my neighbor Jungkook.” Jimin gestures to each of them. They nod at each other very somberly, making Jimin hold back an inappropriate giggle at their serious faces.
“To answer your question: it doesn’t make sense. If it was a simple B&E, why would they go to the most exposed apartment. If I was a thief, I would choose the two most hidden apartments or the one with the easiest access. The one downstairs, who did have their door unlocked.” Jungkook states.
“So are you saying this break in was targeted?” Tae asks the question Jimin did and didn’t want answered.
“I can’t say with a hundred percent certainty.” Jungkook hesitantly.
“Nah. You can't make a big show of investigating, and climbing up down the walls like spider-man to backtrack and not say what you mean.” Tae protested, clearly irritated. Jungkook narrows his eyes, looking equally as irritated. But he sighs in resignation.
“Disclaimer, this is just my opinion, I’m not an actual cop. But, yeah i do think this is targeted. Burglars are opportunistic, they look for the easiest target. This apartment is far from the easiest target. Add to the fact that you were still in your apartment at the time.” Jungkook said, speaking directly to Jimin. “The reason I did my spidey show is because I wanted to test how long it would take and how much effort they had to put in to even get up here.”
“It’s not easy, I used to rock climb, I’m out of practice but I have enough experience to know that your everyday garden variety thief won't put so much effort. I climbed down to ground level and noticed that three apartments were empty, the cars weren't there and they left their doors unlocked. So what does that tell you?” Jungkook prods.
“That he came here for a reason.” Jimin answers with dread threatening to choke him. Tae side hugs him. Jungkook looks at him regretfully.
“He didn’t take anything of value, he escaped when he knew he had been heard.” Jungkook observes. “You don’t have to answer this if you don’t want to. Have you noticed anything out of the ordinary, anyone following you or maybe receiving any weird messages?”
Jimin thinks about the past few weeks, the feelings of uneasy he’s had and brushed aside. The times he’s felt watched at work, in class, when he’s teaching, even the few times while on his balcony. He’s felt it and ignored the feeling so many times.
“For the past few weeks I’ve noticed a certain feeling I get at random times. Like I’m being watched, I shrugged off as a figment of my imagination. Why would anyone be watching me?” Jimin with a disbelieving snort.
“Don’t be dumb Jiminie.” Tae admonishes. “You’re gorgeous. That’s reason enough for the crazies out there.” Jimin sends Jungkook a dubious look but finds him nodding his head in agreement.
“You’re not agreeing with this reasoning are you?” Jimin asks incredulously.
“Yes. I agree with both statements.” Jungkook shrugs. As if he hadn’t just rocked Jimin off his feet. The most inappropriate time to get the warm and fuzzies because a cute guy called you gorgeous, Tae not counting of course. “If and this is a big, if, you do have a stalker, then the best thing I can tell you is to change your locks first of all. Start writing a journal, write down every time you remember feeling off, try to be as specific as possible.”
“Oh and I probably don’t need to tell you this but try not to be caught out alone, and have your boyfriend stay over the next few weeks or so.” Jungkook gestures between Jimin and Tae.
“Oh no no we aren’t together. We’re best friends. I actually have a boyfriend already.” Tae informs Jungkook with a wink. Jimin groans into his hands, trust Tae to choose this moment to play matchmaker.
Jungkook smiles, but otherwise doesn’t comment.
“I don’t suppose you can fake it?” Jungkook asks, doubtfully. “There are times when stalkers back off when their subject gets a significant other.”
“Normally I’d be game, just to get a chance at that piece of shit but I’m leaving for Daegu in a few days. I won't be back for two weeks. And secondly if it is a stalker then they probably won’t believe we’re an item, not with the way I am with Joonie.” Tae says apologetically but ruins it by smirking. Jimin laughs.
“Yeah, you and your constant pda. If you could tattoo Joon’s forehead with your name you would.” Jimin accuses, laughing harder when Taehyung shrugs in agreement. A beep coming from Jungkook’s phone interrupts their laughter, he quickly answers.
“Yeah. Yeah. I’m on the way. Lost track of time.” Jungkook says apologetically but also with a touch of impatience. He soon hangs up. “Sorry about that. My boss/ cousin is opening his shop tomorrow and I promised I would help with the finishing touches.”
“Jimin, I’m sorry I’m leaving so abruptly but if you need anything I’m just down the hall, you’re welcome anytime.” He says earnestly, his big eyes holding stars. Jimin nods, unable to form words. Jungkook walks out of the door, with Jimin and Tae trailing behind.
“ You’re welcome anytime!” Tae mocks in his impossibly deep voice. Before Jimin can say anything Jungkook pops his head back in the door.
“Oh I’ll let you know what the officer says after I talk to them.” Jungkook says with a smirk on his face. Obviously having overheard Tae mocking him. He cheerily waves as he leaves. Jimin turns towards Tae mortified, Tae has his hands up helplessly.
“I can’t believe that happened. I’m so embarrassed.” Jimin says, glaring at Tae. He shrugs back carelessly, then suddenly smirks.
“Hey, at least now you know he’s interested.” Tae says excitedly, poking Jimin in his ticklish spots. He tries to stay annoyed but soon giggles. He sobers quickly, sniffing haughtily at that.
“And why should I care about that? I’m not looking for anything right now. You know that.” Jimin says, not meeting Tae’s eyes.
“Oh don’t feed me that lie. There’s a reason you never mentioned Jungkook. You’ve been keeping secrets from me.” Tae accuses. “If you built a man from scratch, he would look exactly like Jungkook. Even down to his sparkly eyes and cute bunny teeth. I could see it in the way you watched him as he spoke. Every word he said was like gold to you.”
“Is that why you never mentioned him? Did you fall in love already?” Tae says this teasingly but with underlying seriousness. Since the day they met and became best friends they always told each other everything.
But Jimin can barely admit it too himself, the small crush he’d been harboring for his neighbor. Jimin looks down at his feet, still too shy to say the words aloud.
“No, I barely know him.” He blushingly replied.
“But there’s something there, right?” Tae persists. Jimin avoids his eyes as long as he’s able but Tae is his best friend for a reason. They know each other better than they know themselves. The silence is enough of an answer, so he doesn’t try to hold it in any longer.
“There might be a small, very small something.” Jimin admits. His blush flares worse as he thinks back to when it had all started a few months back, the day they first met. Tae squeals.
“Tell me everything!!!”
“Can’t this wait? I have to clean up my apartment and call the landlord to change my locks.” Jimin whines.
“First we have to eat, so you can fill me in on your grand love story.” Tae says not budging, pulling Jimin to his dining table to eat and gossip.
“6 months!?!?!” Tae exclaimed after Jimin admitted that he had been keeping this to himself that long.
“I know. I know. It was hard , I wanted to vent but you and Namjoon were going through tough times with his mom’s sickness and by the time I realized it months had passed. It’s really not a big deal. I barely know the guy. We met at the laundry room. I was being my usual clumsy self, tripping over his fabric softener and he caught me before I fell. But in the least romantic way possible, I was carrying my big ass laundry basket and he caught me by the back of my shirt. He yanked so hard the shirt choked me. I was so embarrassed.” Jimin feels a fresh wave of embarrassment at the memory.
“Ooh kinky.. I wasn’t aware you had a choking fetish. But there’s no kink shaming in this house.” Tae teased. Jimin growled in annoyance.
“Ha.. so funny. We didn’t even talk while we both washed but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had seen him before. You remember that brief period where I was so angry after Kai and I broke up? Where I tried that dating site? I was bitter at first, but soon realized that I didn’t want to rush anything so I changed my status to only looking for friends. It turned out that we both got matched. I thought it wouldn’t hurt if i mentioned it. If i got a weird vibe I wouldn’t talk to him again.”
“But surprisingly we got along really well but we had both been in similar situations. He had just broken up with his boyfriend. And neither of us were looking for anything. Since then it’s been pretty casual. We greet each other. We ask each other for sugar when we run out. We’re friendly but it’s never been more than that. Today was the most I’d ever heard him talk.”
“I think it’s always been one sided on my part. I didn’t even realize I had a crush on him until a few months ago and it wasn’t even because I knew him. It’s mostly because he’s adorable and sweet.” Jimin explains, not realizing how much he had needed to share his pent up feelings.
“Wow, wasn’t expecting all that. First things first, I can honestly say I don’t think your feelings are one sided. I think Mr Spider-Man shares some feelings. He hung on your every word, watching worriedly when you weren’t looking. And he also looked annoyed at me until he realized we aren’t dating.” Tae informs him. “Yup I’d say he has a little crush too.”
“I can’t think about that right now. Not when all this mess just happened.” Jimin says sadly.
“But when can you think about it? If you let this one thing stop you from living your life, when does it end? Will you go on forever putting it off until the moment is gone? Do you honestly think that you won’t regret not pursuing this feeling?” Tae asks gently. “I don’t want you to feel pressured. I want you to find the happiness I’ve found with Joonie. But I think you’re pushing your feelings away because you’re scared. Not every man is like Kai. Not every man is an asshole who cheats.”
“I know that I would’ve regretted never calling Namjoon that one time. You remember when you told almost word for word the same thing about letting someone slip through your fingers.” Tae reminds of the long ago conversation. Tae had been hesitating with Namjoon, not wanting anything serious and stringing Joon along. Jimin had slapped some sense to him at the time. As his best friend it was only fair for him to repay in kind.
“You’re right. I know you are but I’m still scared. And this situation doesn’t help with that fear.” Jimin admits. Tae side hugs him, giving as much comfort as he could.
“Look there’s no need to rush. Take some time to think about what you want to do. Also we have to clean up this mess and get you secured because I won’t leave peacefully until we get these locks changed.” Tae instructs. “You helped teach me to live, I want you to live happily as well but I want it to be on your own terms. Not mine or anyone else’s”
Jimin nods, growing a bit teary eyed. He gets up from his seat to hug his best friend fiercely. Thankful to have a best friend like him.
“Alright enough with the feels, help me clean this up so I can call a locksmith.” Jimin announces, getting up to start his clean up. He wants to clean and restore some semblance of normalcy to his apartment.
They work for the next few hours to clean up the glass and other destruction. After calling the locksmith and hovering over his shoulder as he installed a new lock. Jimin felt a bit paranoid but he made sure to get all the copies to the lock.
They went to the store to pick up some locks for the windows and sliding door. After they came back Tae had to leave for work. As soon as the door closed behind him Jimin felt the sudden silence envelop him.
He sat down on his sofa in front of his parents' photo. He missed them so much. Especially right now, when he longed for his mother’s warm hugs, and father’s comforting words. He could just faintly imagine her favorite perfume. At times like these he felt so alone.
The beep from his phone distracted him from his melancholy thoughts. It was his reminder to get ready for his class. Even though he had never changed out of workout clothes this morning he still felt slightly icky. He showered for the second time, knowing full well he would shower again afterwards. He needed to wash all the stress away.
The rest of the night is calm, a lot of his class made an appearance, only a few couldn’t make it. He tortured them with a new workout routine and allowed himself to relax a bit. Afterwards he ate an early dinner and headed home.
Once back in his apartment the earlier mood left him suddenly, he had this uneasiness he’d never felt before. He searched his apartment with a pair of scissors, checking behind every door with all the lights on. Jumping at every sound, he had his music blaring so loud that his neighbor banged on the wall at one point. He was trying to drown out the silence, the loneliness.
The ping from his phone startled him, it wasn’t one of his usual alerts. Come to think of it, he hadn’t heard this sound in a few months. It was from one the dating apps he had, more specifically the one he had met Jungkook through.
He sees the notification for a direct message. He’s not in the mood for any dick pics but curiosity gets the best of him and he opens the message. He’s pleasantly surprised to see a message from Jungkook.
10:59 p.m.
Je0nJK97: hey Jimin! Just wanted to see how you're feeling? Sorry if you're asleep already!
11:01 p.m.
JiPRK95:
Hey Jungkook!
It’s totally okay I wasn’t asleep
:\ cant seem to fall asleep
I’m doing much better
Still a bit freaked but better than this morning
11:06 p.m.
Je0nJK97:
I’m happy you’re feeling a little better
Sorry u can’t fall asleep
Is there anything I could do to help?
11:12 p.m.
JiPRK95:
Just talking to you is making me feel better
Calmer
Jimin didn’t know when he had gotten so brave but just talking to Jungkook was making him feel just a bit safer, less lonely.
11: 15 p.m.
Je0nJK97:
Then ill stay on & talk to u as long
As u need me
So can i ask a very important question?
11:17 p.m.
JiPRK95:
Of course
What’s the question?
Jimin is worrying his lip as he waits for the question. He wants to know what could have Jungkook asking so formally .
11:19 p.m.
Je0nJK97:
Which do u prefer Marvel or DC?
11:20 p.m.
…
….
…..
Jimin is too busy giggling to respond. The question caught him off guard so badly he had frozen, but when it sunk in he had felt so giddy at Jungkook’s cuteness.
11:25 p.m.
Je0nJK97:
Jimin?
I know the question is very serious
But i need a response if this friendship is
Going to continue..
Hello?
Jimin proceeds to giggle some more. He just can’t help it, he feels a sense of lightness in his heart at the innocent question.
11:28 p.m.
JiPRK95:
Hmm…
This is indeed a serious question
I’m not sure you’ve earned the right to
Know the answer…
11:30 p.m.
Je0nJK97:
Ahh..
come on?!?
Please!!!!
Ive got to know!!!
11:31 p.m.
JiPRK95:
Well i guess since u begged so nicely
I love the Marvel movies more
But the dc comics and cartoons are better…
And NO u cant change my mind…. :/
11:35 p.m.
Je0nJK97:
Why would I try?
We can officially be bff’s
An intellectual is what you are
What are your thoughts on Endgame?
11:36 p.m
JiPRK95:
Well…
So began the long back and forth between him and Jungkook, they talked for two hours, way passed Jimin’s bedtime. He had early class the next day but that didn’t stop him responding to every message that was sent or asking his own questions. They talked about everything and nothing, Jimin’s fear had evaporated after the first question. Head so full of Jungkook that nothing else could intrude. He doesn’t know what had held him back all these months but he’s glad he took his head out of his ass.
One or the other falls asleep first ending the conversation. But right as he barely makes it to his early class his phone pings with the now familiar notification. His face automatically lights up with a smile, even before he reads the message.
8:30 a.m.
Je0nJK97:
Good Morning!
Hope u slept well!
Just wanted to let u know I’m
going to talk to officer Jung this morning.
8:36 a.m.
JiPRK95:
Good Morning!
I slept great! Thanks!
I’m not sure what to say about the
police…. they honestly didn’t give me much confidence.
8:39 a.m.
Je0nJK97:
I can understand that.
Let’s hope that this time will be
different.
even if the police don’t help u,
I will.
I won’t let this go Jimin..
Jimin felt a little choked up, it was hard to accept help from people. The only ones he had ever depended on were his friends. Friends who he had known for years, even before his parents had passed. But he couldn’t deny how warm he felt at the gesture. It wasn’t necessary but very much appreciated.
8:45 a.m.
Thank You.
That means a lot to me.
But don’t feel pressured
I don’t expect much to come out of this
8:46 a.m
Je0nJK97:
I cant promise the outcome
will be a good one
But i can promise that
i'll help u the best i can.
8:48 a.m
JiPRK95:
Thanks again.
I feel like a broken record but
I really do appreciate everything
You’ve done for me
Let me know when you have some
Free time and i'll buy you lunch
or dinner…
8:50 a.m.
Je0nJK97:
I would say that’s not necessary
But i never turn down a free meal ;)
I’ll let you know as soon as
I get my new work schedule down
8:52 a.m.
JiPRK95:
K
I have to get to class
But ill talk to u later
Have a good day!!
8:53 a.m.
Je0nJK97:
You too!!
Bye!!
Jimin puts away his phone as his professor walks in the class. Monday and Wednesdays were his days filled with classes. He would not catch any breaks today. He pulls out his notepad, shrugging to himself, still in a good mood because of a bunny faced boy. ‘Things could be worse’ he thinks.
Jungkook
Jungkook put his phone in his back pocket as he moved up the line in the cafe. He was grabbing a few americano’s for everyone at his job. The Grand Opening of his cousin’s shop was today and he knew everyone would be stressed. His cousin had a well known reputation, he was also well respected in the race community but he was still nervous to open his first shop.
Jungkook had of course followed his cousin to his shop. Nepotism at its finest. But they both had learned from their fathers, both of them having their own businesses. Jungkook wanted to help him as best as he could but he couldn’t help being a bit distracted.
One cute but sad face kept replaying in his mind. Jimin. When he had walked up the stairs and seen Jimin sitting in the hall looking so lost. He had wanted to run to him, to comfort him, even though he hadn’t a clue what was happening.
It was no secret to his friends or his family that he had a major crush on the smaller boy. The first time they met, even though he had just broken up with his boyfriend, Jungkook couldn’t stop talking about Jimin. The months they’ve slowly gotten to know each other hadn’t helped stop his feelings from growing. Even though they both moved at a snail’s pace, it was easy for Jungkook to see what an amazing person Jimin was.
He had been desperately trying to find ways to talk to him but had always chickened out at the last minute. Emergencies must throw all the self doubt out of the window because when he had seen Jimin scared and worried, his first instinct was to comfort.
When he had seen Jimin’s eyes sparkle with unshed tears he had felt a determination build inside himself. He knew he would help him any way that he could.
He moves up the line, making his order, and then standing around aimlessly waiting. He’s still thinking over everything he wants to ask Officer Jung when they meet later.
He’s distracted by an incoming message. He feels his left eye twitch as he reads it. It reads as inoccus as any message he’s ever received but the person that sent it was the offensive part. His ex-boyfriend decided to message him as if they were old school friends that had lost touch. When in fact Jungkook had caught him cheating with another close friend of theirs.
KimYug97:
Hey Kookie! I’m reaching out
Bc I’ve recently moved to
Seoul and was wondering if
U wanted to grab lunch?
Je0nJK97 :
NO
KimYug97 :
Oh come on Jungkookie!
Don’t be like that.
We have to let the past go
Don’t tell me you’re still hung up on that whole situation?
I’ve gotten over it, you should too.
Je0nJK97:
Okay.
Bye.
He knew it would piss Yugyeom to not get the last word so Jungkook blocks him. His ex had torn his heart apart and stomped on it. And he expected Jungkook to just get over it. What made it worse was that Yugyeom didn’t have his new number and Jungkook knows who gave it to him. His Mom.
His mother had always had a soft spot for Yugyeom. Hell he and Yugyeom grew up together, and she loved him like another son. So Jungkook had never mentioned why exactly they broke up. Looks like he’s gonna have to burst her little matchmaking bubble.
He shoves his phone in his pocket, deciding to tackle that beast another time. He grabs the two coffee carriers, carefully balancing them. He almost runs into someone as he walks out because he is distracted again by the sudden influx of messages he’s receiving.
He walks down the block to his job, seeing Yoongi already outside talking to a customer. He walks in handing out the coffees. He greets everyone before he quickly glances at his phone, noticing a bunch from an unknown number and the rest from his mother. He puts the phone on silent, puts it in his locker. Changing into his coveralls he focuses on work, happily greeting the next customer that walks in.
He keeps himself busy the rest of the day only stopping long enough to scarf down a sandwich Yoongi bought. It’s just before closing time at 6pm that the customer he’s been waiting for all day walks in.
Officer Jung walks in, he’s off duty so he’s wearing one of his quirky outfits. Not something Jungkook would personally wear but Jung makes it look good. Jung had messaged him the night before wanting Jungkook to look over his car for suspension issues.
“Hey Jungkook! Thanks for waiting for me!” Jung says, shaking Jungkook’s hand enthusiastically.
“Not a problem. I've been so busy today I’ve barely even noticed time passing.” Jungkook shrugs, not in the least bit bothered by the wait. He understands the heavy demand in Jung’s line of work.
“Well that's good at least. I had a hard time waking up this afternoon. I pulled a double last night that kicked my ass. We had a string of break ins on patrol last night. And before you ask, no it had nothing to do with your neighbors break in. These were at homes close to the business district.” Jung explained, anticipating Jungkook’s questions. He had seen Jungkook’s excited face when he had mentioned break ins.
Jungkook’s face fell at the news of the location. It was on the opposite side of town from where they lived. But this gave him a great segue to bring up Jimin’s break in.
“I actually wanted to talk to you about that break in. Jimin, my neighbor, was the one whose apartment was broken into. Do you have any updates on that? Have you been able to run the prints?” Jungkook asks eagerly.
“Ahh.. I wish I could tell you that we’ve managed to find something but I’m not a detective and I don’t have the authority to start an investigation. I’m just a uniform, we respond to calls but we don’t actually investigate, you know this.” Jung reminded him gently.
“Yeah I know that. But I also know that you have the access to do a simple fingerprint search or to see if there are any other similar cases. I’m not trying to step on anyone’s toes but I’m worried. Jimin is also worried.” Jungkook stressed. He wanted Jung to remember Jimin’s fear, he didn’t want Jimin to become just another case number.
“I’m sorry, Jungkook. My hands are tied. The most I can promise you is to keep my eyes open and ears to the ground.” Jung says sincerely. Jungkook understands but that doesn't prevent the anger from festering, he doesn’t like this answer or the lack of action on the police’s part but he knows that there’s nothing he can do to change their minds.
He doesn’t personally blame Jung, knowing that he doesn't have the authority to order anyone around. Jungkook knows that he has to find out on his own, he has to start his own investigation.
They made more small talk as Jungkook raised Jung’s car on the lift. He gave Jung a few estimates as he saw what needed to be changed. Promising that it would take a few hours and that Jung could leave his car overnight.
“I think I’ll have to bring it back later. My next shift starts in three hours. And I don’t have a ride to and from work right now.” Jung looks around mournfully. Jungkook glances over to where he’s staring, and is unsurprised that it’s Yoongi. Jung had a major crush on Yoongi. Mooning after him every time they are in the same room.
“I have an idea, but you owe me big time.” Jungkook warns. He smirks at Jung before calling Yoongi over.
“What’s up?” Yoongi says, a blush already on his face as he sees who’s with Jungkook.
Jungkook allows himself to play the matchmaker in this case because he knows the crush is mutual between his cousin and handsome policeman. And this will definitely put Jung in his debt.
“Can you give Officer Jung a ride to the police precinct on your way home? He’s leaving his car here for me to fix but doesn’t have a ride.” Jungkook asks, throwing in his pleading eyes. Knowing his cousin has a soft spot for him. But he notices that Yoongi is not meeting anyone’s eyes, focused on a point over Jung’s shoulder, his face flaming red.
Yoongi clears his throat. “S..sure… I can do that. What time do you need to leave?”
“We still have some time. Maybe about two hours, I have my stuff in my car so there’s no rush.” Jung says, staring straight at Yoongi’s face.
“Okay. I’ll start closing up the shop and then we can head out. Maybe stop and get some food before I drop you off.” Yoongi says boldly, finally meeting Jung’s eyes. Jung is the one to blush now.
Jungkook feels like an intruder, so he turns to start making a list of parts he needs to go by. He has to make sure to buy everything he needs because this is a solo job and he won’t have the help of his usual assistants.
Everything turns to background noise as he works. He feels more than sees everyone leaving and the shop getting silent. It feels eerie, to see the place empty after having so many people in there earlier in the day.
He locks up the shop to go across the street to buy the parts. He gets a pleasant surprise as he walks into the store. Jimin is behind the counter in one of the matching uniforms. He’s talking to another customer so Jungkook is assisted by another employee. But he can’t help but sneak glances over at him as he assists the older gentleman. Jimin talks to him loudly to help with his hearing. He walks him through all the parts and prices he’s purchasing. Jimin talks to him with respect and patience, making Jungkook’s heart melt in the process.
He knows he’s sporting major heart eyes so he forces himself to look away, down at the list in his hand. His head snaps up so fast he get whiplash when he hears the sweet voice addressing him.
“Hey Jungkookie!”
Yugyeom used to call him that all the time and he hated it but it sounded different coming from Jimin. Sweeter and more genuine. Or maybe he was just majorly whipped for the cute boy. If Jimin was gonna use a nickname then so was he.
“Jiminie! Hey I didn’t know you worked here.” He was going for a smooth vibe but he knows he missed the mark when Jimin giggles at him. Not that he minds being laughed at when he’s rewarded with such a beautiful sound.
“Yeah I’ve been working here for about a year. And you? I’ve never seen you in this area…” Jimin says, making it seem like a question.
“The new shop my cousin opened is across the street. So you’ll be seeing me in here a lot more.” Jungkook promises. Jimin smiles at him once more before turning to help a new customer.
He finishes up his purchases ten minutes later but loiters by Jimin’s station, feeling like a creep. He waits patiently as Jimin finishes helping someone. Jimin turns to him, question clear on his face. Jungkook hesitates nervously.
“I’m working on a small job for the next couple hours so if you want we can walk home together. That is if you’ll still be here at like 9 or 9:30 ?” Jungkook asks shyly. Jimin stares at him, making him nervously fidget with the bags in his hands.
“I’d love that Jungkookie!” Jimin exclaims, rewarding Jungkook with his beautiful eye smile. Jungkook smiles back idiotically, nodding and escaping as fast as he can. If he had stayed he would’ve melted into a puddle at Jimin’s feet.
A couple of hours later Jungkook finishes up Jung’s car, he quickly showers in the small bathroom Yoongi had added. Changing back into his regular clothes, his oversized hoodie and sweats. Refreshed and clean he finally feels calm enough to deal with the barrage of messages he sees piled up in his notifs.
His mother called and texted multiple times, along with the unknown number. He ignores those in favor of a message from Jung an hour ago.
JHSeok94:
Hey man! Thanks for your help earlier!
I owe you big time!!!!! ;)
Jungkook chuckles at that, he’s sure Jung means he’s thankful in more ways than one. He quickly reads through the messages from the unknown number, correctly guessing that they came from Yugyeom.
They start off cajoling but soon turn bitter and hateful. He doesn’t respond, deciding it’s best not to let the negativity get to him when he’s in such a good place now.
But his mom was a different case, he needed to cut her meddling in the bud. He understands why she’s trying to get them back together but it was his fault for not being more open with her. He had wanted to protect her from the truth but she deserves to know, and for more selfish reasons, he doesn’t want to keep hearing about his stupid ex anymore.
He locks up the shop, setting the alarm and then walking across the street to wait for Jimin. The auto store still has a few minutes before they close so Jungkook stands outside waiting. He texts his mom a quick message.
Kookie:
I need to talk to you.
I’ ve wanted to tell you something
For a while now, so when you get the chance
Call me…
Mom<3
Of course baby
You know you can tell me anything
Ill call you so i can hear your voice
He answers his mom’s incoming call. He has no reason to be nervous but he always gets anxious when he has bad news.
“Hello.”
“My baby! Why have you ignored me all day?” She says crossly.
“I’m sorry about that but that’s the reason I needed to talk to you. You keep bringing up Yugyeom….” He starts but is interrupted.
“He’s such a good boy. I don’t know what you were thinking, breaking up with him.” She admonishes, continuing before he can respond. “I set up a dinner for both of you, so you can catch up. It’s next Saturday, so please just go and talk to him. Who knows maybe you’ll hit it off again.” She says in one breath. He couldn’t hold it in any longer.
“MOM… stop it.. just stop it… he cheated on me.. he had sex with one of our good friends not once but for months.. he slept with him and lied to my face about it.. and then to top it off he tried to place the blame at my feet for not having sex with him enough… so no i will not be having dinner with him or talking, texting or even acknowledging his existence.” Jungkook ends in a whisper, feeling gutted all over again. Just remembering that experience made those feelings of worthlessness bubble up inside him again.
“Oh ….oh …. How dare he? How dare that sonofabitch?” His mother hissed into the phone. “He had the audacity to think that he can do better than my son, to hurt my son like this. I’m sorry baby!! Please forgive your thoughtless mother? If I had known I would have beat his scrawny ass months ago.” She promised mercilessly. Jungkook chuckles into the phone, feeling love for his mother bubble up inside him instead of those negative feelings.
“It’s fine now Mom. I just wanted to let you know because he’s trying to contact me again.” Jungkook informed her.
“Don’t worry about that baby!! I’ll handle that motherfucker!!!” She vowed, in a cold voice.
“Okay. Don’t kill or permanently maim anyone!” Jungkook warns.
“Oh I won’t don’t worry about that.” She promised. Jungkook changes the subject before she starts making bodily threats again, filling her in on how work and school was going. He tells her about Yoongi and Jung’s blooming romance. And they giggle at the stoic Yoongi blushing like a school-boy with his first crush.
“Jungkookie?!?” A sweet voice calls out behind. He says “Jimin” before he can stop himself. His mother latches onto that like a shark with blood.
“Jimin? Who’s that? Is that a new friend or something more? That tone of voice gives you away Kookie!” She squeals in delight. Jungkook sighs in loving exasperation.
“I gotta go Mom. And he’s just a friend… for now…” the last part he whispers as she screeches. “Love you. Bye.”
Jimin stands there with an eyebrow raised.
“Sorry. That was my mom. We had a few things to settle.” Jungkook supplies vaguely.
“Ooh I hope everything is okay!” Jimin says, concern coating his voice.
“It is now. I had to explain to her how my childhood friend/ ex boyfriend had cheated on me and that I was not getting back together with him. Good thing she had my back when she found out.” Jungkook explains, not wanting to over share but also wanting to be upfront with Jimin about his past relationship. He hadn’t truly decided to pursue anything with Jimin until this morning but he knew that if something did start he wanted it to be a healthy relationship.
“Ahh.. that's good. My mom was the same way, she always had my back even when I was in the wrong sometimes. She always called me on my bullshit when we were alone but in public she backed me up.” Jimin remembers fondly. These small things made him miss his parents daily.
They start to walk home, letting the silence fill the air around them, both feeling comfortable letting the conversation still. They enjoyed each other’s company, Jungkook especially feeling a sense of contentment.
They finally arrive and Jungkook walks Jimin right up to his door, watching as he unlocked his door. Wanting so badly to say something charming but frog in his throat he awkwardly waves goodbye. Jimin’s phone beeps as he closes the door, Jungkook already walking down the hall towards his door.
“Hey Jungkook? Can you come take a look at this?” Jimin calls out, head popping out into the hallway. Jungkook pauses at his door, but doesn’t hesitate to walk back to Jimin.
Jimin opens the door wider, silently inviting Jungkook inside. He accepts the phone Jimin is handing him, see the message screen. He reads it a few times to wrap his head around what was sent.
Unknown Number:
I’ve missed you!
Can’t wait to see you again!
I’ll see you again Mini!
On their own the messages seem innocent enough, but with what happened the day before it chills Jungkook’s blood. It could be a wrong number but it’s too coincidental that they used the nickname Mini.
“We can call the police tomorrow but to be honest they left a bad taste in my mouth. I spoke to one of the officers and he reiterated the same thing he told you. Instead of depending on them we can call the phone company and see if they can give us any information.” Jungkook suggests. He sees Jimin looking down, and it kills him knowing that he can’t do more to set him at ease.
He’s struck again with the idea he had suggested the day before, but this time with a different stand in. It was kind of crazy and he was hesitant to even suggest it but he feels like it might help somehow.
“I have an idea but I’m not sure you’ll agree.” Jungkook says, the doubt clear in his voice.
“Well he even if it’s crazy, I might be desperate enough to try it. The uncertainty of this whole situation is what’s giving me anxiety.” Jimin admits. Taking a deep breath, and avoiding Jimin’s eye Jungkook lays out his idea.
“I mentioned that you could possibly pretend to be in a relationship. It may help scare off someone. Of course it’s not full proof but it might help.” Jungkook suggests. Jimin’s brows frown in confusion.
“Yeah but Tae has a boyfriend, and anyone who knows us, knows that we are just best friends.” Jimin reminds him.
“No… umm… not Tae.. umm.. me.. I can pretend to be your boyfriend. It would be convenient because we live in the same building. We could say that the relationship is very new and we are still getting to know each other.” Jungkook rushes to lay out his idea before it’s shot down. Jimin frowns again.
“Are you sure? I’m already burdening you. I don’t want to add to that.” Jimin inquires.
“No of course not. What are friends for?” Jungkook says, but instantly curses himself. He’s trying to avoid friendzoning himself. “I want to help. It would honestly make me feel better. I had a… hmm… persistent admirer.. I guess you could call him that… when he found out I had a boyfriend he backed off.” Jungkook shrugs.
“I mean we do have a lot of places in common now. We go to the same school, we live in the same building, we work across the street from each other. Okay that does sound excessive, now that I say it out loud.” Jungkook admits sheepishly. Jimin laughs at his red faced embarrassment.
“But our schedules differ, that’s why we rarely saw each before, right?” Jimin asks.
“Yeah it did. But since my job is closer, I don’t have to leave so early or come back so late. We can work it out, it’s not like we have to be attached at the hip. Not all real couples are together 24/7, they still have to get things done. For now just saying the words, and spending a bit more time together should work.” Jungkook theorizes.
“Okay we can do that. I have one class tomorrow in the morning and I’m off from work, so you won’t see me at the store. I’m teaching a dance class tomorrow night so I probably won’t see you until Wednesday.” Jimin shares.
“I’m off of work too. I only have classes tomorrow, so i should be finished by 4 or 5. Where’s your class at? Maybe I can stop by?” Jungkook asks hesitantly. He’s happy to see Jimin’s face brighten.
“Oh yeah that would be fun. We can see how well you dance.” Jimin smirks. Jungkook throws his hands up.
“I never said I would participate, just stop by and observe.” Jungkook says hastily. Jimin frowns at that, pout already forming. Jungkook knows he’s already been beaten, he can’t deny that cute pout anything. “Okay. Okay. Maybe I’ll join in, but go easy on me please. I haven’t danced in a long time.” Jimin nods eagerly.
“Of course. I won’t push you too hard in your first class.” Jimin promises, but something about the evil smile makes Jungkook not fully believe him.
“Okay well I better get going. I have an early class tomorrow. Message me if you can’t sleep.” Jungkook insists. Jimin agrees shyly.
“Okay. I’ll log this into my journal, and then go to sleep. I probably won’t bug you too much.” Jimin assures.
“I don’t mind. Bug all you need.” Jungkook says as he’s walking out the door. He hesitates as he leaves, turning to face Jimin. He awkwardly pats him on the shoulder, cringing internally. “Good night, Jiminie.”
He’s rewarded with the sweetest smile.
“Good night, Jungkookie.”
Jimin
As he closes the door behind Jungkook, he sighs wistfully. It would be such an easy thing to fall in love with Jungkook. He was sweet, thoughtful, and above all caring. The caring seeped out of him in droves.
The fake relationship caught Jimin by surprise but he would be lying if he said it didn’t peak his interest. He wasn’t necessarily looking for a relationship but he wasn’t opposed to one with a certain bunny faced cutie.
He shakes his head, deciding he needs to get his head out of the clouds. He goes about his nightly routine and is in bed 30 minutes later. Snuggled into his nest of pillows and weighted blanket makes him feel warm and cozy.
But the message he receives a minute later makes him feel safe and cared for.
Je0nJK97:
Good night and sweet dreams
He falls asleep with a smile on his face.
The next day flies by, Jimin is anticipating his night class. Mostly because Jungkook said he would be there.
After his only class, he meets up with Tae, who he fills in about everything that’s happened since Sunday. They squeal about Jungkook together, Tae understanding the possibilities that could come from it. He warns him to be careful but to also make the most out of the whole situation.
Later that night he arrives at the studio a bit early, setting up his music. Getting in a stretch and warming up before his students begin to arrive.
His first student arrives, SeulGi, a regular since the first class, he chats with her for a few minutes. Trying his best to encourage her, she had lost her confidence after having a baby and gaining weight. She was one his best students, and one of the reasons he had started to think about adding another class. One for his top students, one with a higher intensity.
He runs this idea by her, asking if she’d be interested. He’s asking for her input when her words die, she’s staring towards the entrance behind Jimin.
Jimin turns, and is struck dumb for a full minute. There stands Jungkook in all his glory. He’s wearing his favorite outfit but with a twist. Gray sweats, sneakers, but this time a cutoff shirt showcasing his sleeve of tattoos. His muscles on full display, he can understand why he and Seulgi were struck dumb. He clears his throat, even though not a word had been spoken.
Seulgi turns back to face, eyebrow raised “Is that a new student?”
Jimin blushes, and clears his throat again. “That’s… umm.. My boyfriend, Jungkook.” He knows he sounds so unsure but he can’t help it.
“Jiminie!” Jungkook calls out as he walks over to him. He’s smiling a nervous but cute smile making Jimin blush all over again. Seulgi excuses herself with a distracted nod from Jimin.
“You made it!” Jimin exclaims, happiness bubbling inside of him. The stand there staring at each other, smiling stupidly.
“Of course. I promised I would come, and also I was curious about your class.” Jungkook admits.
“Well I want you to stand at the very front. We’ll see if you can keep up!” Jimin challenges, the flirty tone making Jungkook’s eyes darken.
“Oh I‘ll keep up.” Came Jungkook’s husky promise. Jimin averts his eyes, clearing his throat for the third time in a matter of minutes. He notices the rest of his students begin to arrive, and gets back to business.
The class begins, Jungkook keeps up beautifully, he’s powerful as he dances. Jimin keeps an eye on him throughout the class, not because Jungkook needs it but because Jimin can’t seem to help himself.
The class wraps up and Jungkook suggests dinner, he readily agrees. They spend the next couple hours talking and laughing, enjoying each other’s company. They walk home together making it seem even more like a date when Jungkook drops him off at his door. Bidding him good night with a sweet, innocent kiss on the cheek.
Jimin is on cloud nine, letting his imagination take over, wishing with everything to make this real. He’s smitten and he knows it could end somewhere badly but unable to stop himself.
That night as he’s in bed, getting comfortable he receives two messages. Both messages leave him with differing feelings.
Je0nJK97 :
Good night Jiminie!
Sweet dreams <3
Unknown number:
Hey baby!
I miss you so much!
I can’t wait to see you tomorrow
I’ll see you in your dreams
He’s left feeling chilled, he logs it into his journal but can’t escape the disquieting feeling. He doesn’t want to bug Jungkook again so he tries again to fall asleep but ends wide awake at two in the morning.
The next morning is hard for him, he drags himself through his classes, reluctantly going to work after going to his weekly brunch with his friends. They tease him mercilessly and he blushes heavily through it. But his lack of sleep catches up to him, his temper is on a hair trigger . A four hour schedule feels like twelve when he has to deal with stubborn customers. The only thing that made him feel slightly better was Jungkook.
Jimin had sent him a message earlier, whining about his exhaustion and Jungkook had brought him over some snacks and an espresso. They had flirted a bit, and finally managed to exchange actual phone numbers, for some reason they had been using the dating app to communicate. They hadn’t even noticed a difference but when Jungkook asked, he readily messaged him. When Jungkook went back to work, he still managed to send Jimin cute puppy kitty videos.
The night was looking up until a certain feeling returned. The feeling had been missing for the past few days but suddenly returned after Jungkook left. It made chills creep up his back, he felt as if someone was glaring at him. Jimin kept glancing over his shoulder unconsciously, wanting badly to message Jungkook and let him know. He stopped himself over and over until he received a message that froze his blood.
Unknown number:
I see you’ve been busy while I’ve been gone
And here I thought you would be waiting for me
Silly me to trust in your loyalty
We’ll see how long your happiness will last without that dirty mechanic in the way..
Bye for now my love..
He glanced outside the store window to see a figure standing next to a lamp post, the figure dropped his arm standing absolutely still. He stood for a second longer seeming to glare at the store before turning to walk away and disappear into the night.