Archive of Our Own

**********

“Yoongi, let’s go back to our room! The break is over.” Hoseok pleads as he pulls Yoongi’s uniform, trying to get his attention, scared for his dear life to get scolded by their terror teacher.

“Wait!” Yoongi replies and swats the younger’s hand away. He returns his attention on the rack outside the library. “I’m just looking over it. This won’t take too long.”

Yoongi grabs one newspaper and reads like an old man, his eyeglasses resting on the bridge of his nose.

Even though paranoid about being late, Hoseok stays, clinging and shaking Yoongi’s arm. They’re buddies in class, and sometimes their classmates tagged them as “dumb and dumber” - Hoseok being the gullible one, and Yoongi the nerd himself.

They are together most of the time, and their classmates love them too. Their tandem, especially their innocence, undoubtedly brings laughter to the class.

That one instance became a routine, as did Hoseok’s worries of getting busted.

“This is our everyday scenario, Yoongi! Why don’t you just get a copy of the newspaper and read it inside? After all, it’s free for all the students.”

Hoseok skims his hand over the pile of newspapers where the majority of the students are uninterested. “See? You can even get multiple copies since they started printing!”

“Fine, fine! Can you help me get a copy of each from last week? Please, please, please?” Yoongi pleads, showing his puppy eyes that no one could resist. Yes, not even Hoseok himself.

What a nerd!

“Oh God, I’m so close to unfriending you!” He complains but obliges.

“I know you can’t do that.” Yoongi replies without even looking.

“You’re too confident, huh?”

“You copy my homeworks.”

“Oh. Good point. I love you, bestie!!” Hoseok clings more to his arms, patting his head, as if nothing happened.

“What are you going to do with all these? Do we have a project that requires keeping a copy of the school newspaper? Should I get one for myself too?” Hoseok adds as he checks the dates, ensuring not to miss a day.

Meanwhile, Yoongi tries to dismiss Hoseok’s question, afraid of getting mocked if he admits the purpose. “I’m just into reading these days. I don’t have money to buy books, and yes you are right, these are free.”

“You’re weird. Of course you’re into reading! You’re a bookworm and own a lot of books.” Hoseok deadpans. “Also, why don’t you just read our school books? Don’t use your high IQ against me.”

Yoongi thinks of another alibi. He is smart, but dumb on things like this.

“School books are different, Seok. It’s boring.” Yoongi alibis, but the truth is he already did an advance reading of each subject’s next topics. “I just need something to relax my mind.”

“Of all the students in our class, you are the most unproblematic. Why is there a need to relax your mind?” Hoseok interrogates and Yoongi runs out of reasons, and it’s a great timing that the bell rings indicating that their short break is over.

Saved by the bell!

After getting the copies they need, they run back to their room and that’s where Yoongi’s focus and attention is even during their class sessions.

This is probably the reason why he doesn’t get a copy for himself. It’s because he couldn’t get his mind off it. And now there’s a bunch of newspapers right before him, he couldn’t stop himself from reading it, like an itch that needs to be rubbed.

It’s quite simple, Yoongi is not at all interested in whatever school news or announcement that school paper has being the introvert that he is. There’s just one particular section of that eight-page spreadsheet he is interested in - the daily horoscope.

It wouldn’t even take him so long to get the details he needs, because he is only searching for two zodiac signs - Libra and Pisces.

Pisces is Yoongi’s zodiac sign, while Libra is his biggest crush, Park Jimin’s zodiac sign.

Jimin is part of the school’s newspaper team as their official photographer. He has a group of friends in class, but most of the time he is quiet and busy with his camera, or editing photos on his laptop.

The whole class is used to him like that. Jimin isn’t aloof or snobbish, but he will never make the effort to talk to anyone first. He is kind of loud with his closest friends, though. If one approaches him, he’d respond. If one asks for his help, he would extend a hand. Sometimes, the whole class would tag him as the “best errand boy” as he never declines any tasks assigned to him.

Jimin is a very reliable student and classmate. Despite his reserved personality, he is treasured. There are campus crushes in school, but no one’s going to deny that Jimin’s visuals could match them, and yet he doesn’t want any spotlight on him.

He isn’t interested in fame and is just happy with the circle he has, and his love and passion for photography. Something Yoongi loves about him.

The way Jimin concentrates, the way he controls the lens, the way he directs - all of it strikes Yoongi’s heart in a fluttering way. It was just a crazy idea but when he stumbled on the school newspaper and found the horoscope section, Yoongi made it a habit to check on it daily.

Yoongi is a firm believer of horoscopes. Not that he relies his destiny on it that much, but he sees nothing wrong about regarding it as true either. And since his birthday is approaching, his hopeless romantic self starts to act up. In his 17 years of existence, he never had a relationship, let alone experienced a simple date.

So this year, even if he doesn't get a boyfriend, given how this nerdy energy he gives, he is hoping to at least have a date on his special day.

**********

Their class begins and thankfully he is seated at the corner end of the room where the teacher couldn’t see what he is doing. Not at all interested in today's lecture, Yoongi starts re-reading the previous week’s horoscope, aligning whether it matches his past events.

But the Universe hasn't conspired for him yet. Nothing is destined with Jimin at all. Sometimes, he wants to make the first move but he has no courage to do so. So, at some point, he relates his love life to what was written there.

“Libra and Pisces didn't match last week.” He breathes heavily. “No wonder nothing happened between us. He is still the same Jimin I know. I only get to talk to him at one group work.”

For context, what he had last week said:

Someone is admiring you from afar. Your reserved and light aura brightens up their day even without you knowing it. Stay as you are. You may be one of the reasons why someone is inspired to get up in the morning.

Apart from your intelligence and inborn beauty, your personality draws the attention of the people around you. Some might admire and adore you silently. Look around.

Your kindness is what makes you beautiful. Your looks and appearance are only bonus factors. No matter where you go or who you meet, never let that kindness go.

Your carelessness will not do you good. Be careful of everything you do. It will benefit not only you but those around you as well.

“I don’t know if this makes any sense.” Yoongi mumbles, not at all connected to Jimin one bit, except for one. “I slipped on the stairway the day before because I was busy gossiping with Hoseok. I knew he saw it.”

He recalls that embarrassing day. Out of all the times he’d slip, Jimin was unfortunately there to witness it.

Yoongi turns his attention to today's newspaper.

“Okay, let’s see how the stars align for me this month.”

Daily Horoscope - 01 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Your soulmate is just around the corner. He/She is just waiting for the perfect timing to approach and get to know you. Be open to possibilities and never close your door for a new beginning. Refrain from being clumsy as it may danger you or the people around you. Good luck on whatever you do today.

Lucky color: yellow

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
Extraordinary things and people are just out there, only if you pay attention to it. Don’t miss an opportunity to meet someone new by locking yourself to the usual things you do. Open up and maybe it could be someone special too. Be brave and confident.

Lucky color: yellow

“I’m clumsy to begin with.” Yoongi murmurs as he folds the newspaper and throws it on the floor. “But yeah, being careful is a no-brainer thing. How is this related to Jimin? His attention is only on his camera. That’s his extraordinary thing.”

He rustles and glances at Jimin who was again, per usual, busy with his camera. Yoongi chuckles as he watches Jimin lower the hold on his camera so as not to get caught by the teacher too.

“Cute.” He mumbles. “There’s one thing we have in common now. We are bored and not paying attention to the lecture. Good students.``

A little later, Yoongi pulls the paper bag beside his chair and starts to check its content. It consists of his painting materials he will use for the mural art contest he participated in, organized by the student council.

He isn’t interested in joining, but Hoseok insisted that he should be one of their class representatives.

“Are you ready for later?” Hoseok whispers. Yoongi looks up only to realize that his friend is only doodling on his notebook and keeps on checking the time.

“I'm a bit nervous. It’s been a while since I painted.”

“You can do it! You are with Yijeong and Kihyun too! Our class will certainly win the contest.”

“That’s too much pressure, Seok! But I hope so.”

**********

Yoongi proceeds to their assigned wall, while his groupmates prepare everything they will need. Some students flock the area watching the participants with their art.

Soon after, the contest commences and Yoongi drowns in his own world. The theme is quite simple and not at all surprising. Of course, it’s all about love.

Yoongi doesn’t prepare much on it and decides to think of what to draw impromptu. They start to put on the base color, and draw a bit of a background. The wall has something in it already, yet nothing to be seen exactly.

No one could determine what they painted yet.

Yoongi needs inspiration.

“Yijeong, I just need some time to concentrate. You can continue with whatever ideas you have. Just leave this portion for me.” Yoongi points at a certain area of their wall.

“Sure thing, Yoongi. Come back soon, okay?”

“Yeah, I will.”

Yoongi excuses himself and lets his mind wander for a bit. He is holding a can of open paint in one hand, as he mixes the content using a stick on the other.

He zones out, and walks slowly as he thinks of anything.

Until he bumped into something or someone–

“Be careful!”

Yoongi hits someone else’s chest but his mouth drops in complete shock as loses grip on the can of paint and the content splashes over someone else’s uniform.

“Oh my gosh!!!”

The can dropped on the ground, his hands full of paint, yet his eyes are glued to a polo soaked in yellow paint. And to make it a lot worse, when he gazes up to see who it is, all he wants is to vanish.

“J-Jimin…”

Even Jimin himself is frozen from where he is standing out of extreme surprise.

“Oh God! I’m s-sorry! I’m sorry, Jimin!” Yoongi tries to reach for Jimin’s polo, but it’s no use since his hands are in complete mess too.

The commotion draws attention from the students at the area, and some react as well, making Yoongi more ashamed by his carelessness.

Isn't this what my horoscope says? Yoongi thinks.

“Instant bucks!”

“You’re a dead meat, Nerdy Min!”

Some girls who obviously smitten over Jimin even add fuel to fire. “Dumb, Yoongi. Are you an idiot? How come you didn’t notice Jimin coming?”

Swear, it doesn’t help Yoongi at all.

“Shut up! Do you want me to splash this red paint I’m holding on your faces?” Hoseok calls out near them, in Yoongi’s defense.

“D-did I spill it in your camera?” Yoongi nervously asks, almost in a whisper, already on the verge of crying.

Apart from the embarrassment this incident caused, Yoongi is quite sure he has no money to pay for Jimin’s camera in case he ruined it.

“I guess it’s still okay.” Jimin replies. That’s when Yoongi realizes that Jimin is holding his camera up high.

Still, Yoongi is not convinced.

“C-can we check it just to be sure?” He pleads. “Also, I have an extra shirt, you can use it for now. I’m really sorry.” Yoongi apologizes, and decides to take matters in his hand.

“O-okay.”

“Hoseok!” Yoongi shouts, and the other comes quickly. “Can you get Jimin’s camera first?” He asks, pouting towards the camera.

The other obliges and Jimin doesn’t protest. Yoongi quickly goes to the nearest faucet to wash his hand and later on gets rugs for Jimin.

“Jimin, are you wearing an undershirt now?” Yoongi asks.

“Y-yeah.” The other replies, confused. Maybe Jimin was really just surprised.

“Can we remove your polo? It’s dripping bad and your pants may get paint too. Oh my gosh, your mom’s going to get mad at me. I’m really sorry.”

“W-what?”

“Let’s have your polo removed before we head back to our room. My extra shirt is there.”

Jimin complies and yet again is surprised when Yoongi holds his wrist dragging him back to their room.

**********

The room is quiet, and the students are nowhere to be found. Majority of them are at the competition area watching the participants work.

“I’m really sorry.” Yoongi grabs his tote bag with his extra stuff and puts it over his shoulder. “Let’s go to the wash area, I’ll remove the paint in your hands.”

Jimin remains quiet and just follows what Yoongi orders. He watches Yoongi place the tote bag on a dry space beside the faucet and pulls a plastic bag. “I’ll take your dirty polo home. I’ll see what I can do to have this cleaned. I’m very sorry.”

After securing the plastic bag, Yoongi pulls a bottle of liquid soap and opens the faucet. Luckily, the tap water is a bit warm today.

“Gosh, your hands are full of paint too.” Yoongi absentmindedly grabs Jimin’s hands and puts it under the flowing water. He checks Jimin’s other body parts too. Jimin has a few paint spots on his neck and forearms, and good thing nothing on his face.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I hope I didn’t ruin your camera.” Yoongi panics, repeating those words like a mantra.

“Hey, Yoongi. It’s okay.” Jimin finally speaks, but Yoongi seems not to hear.

“I hope you don’t get rashes from the paint. Oh gosh.” Yoongi generously applied liquid soap on Jimin’s hand and rubbed those areas with heavy paint. He is so focused on the task at hand for him to realize how close he grabbed Jimin on his side.

He is working the soap into a lather and gently rubs Jimin’s both hands, paying attention to each finger, ensuring no splatters will remain. The action is quite relaxing for Jimin, in all honesty, so he doesn’t mind. After all, Yoongi’s hands are big and soft, and he massages them too.

Jimin could see how Yoongi’s eyeglasses go down to the bridge of his nose, noticing a small dot of paint on one of the lenses.

Until Yoongi unconsciously blurted, “Your fingers are cute.”

“Is it?” Jimin asks, making Yoongi lost in his tracks, finally realizing he is holding Jimin’s hands for quite some time already.

Oh God, he is holding his crush’s hands!!!!!!

“Uhm, yeah.” Yoongi replies, shy, and blushing real hard.

“Thank you.” Jimin chuckles, and Yoongi’s toes curl with the way it sounds.

No one talked after that and Yoongi continued cleaning Jimin’s hand. After rinsing, they went back to their room. Yoongi inspects his hand and is not satisfied with it.

“Uhm Jimin,” Yoongi calls, the other turns to him.

“Hm?”

“I’m afraid you’ll get allergies if those small splatters remain on your skin for a long time.” Yoongi pouts which Jimin finds really adorable. “I’ve caused you a lot of inconvenience today. I’m really sorry.”

Yoongi gets a pouch in his bag with baby oil and clean cloth. “Don’t go yet, I’m still not done.”’

“Hey, it’s okay.”

“No, please. I’m paranoid.” Yoongi pulls Jimin to sit and place his hands on the desk. He pours an ample amount of baby oil in Jimin's hands, still covered with paint. He allows a few minutes to let the oil sit on his skin before scrubbing it gently with the dry cloth.

Jimin could now see a clearer view of Yoongi’s beautiful hands on him. It looks so soft, and much fairer than his. He just stares at it as Yoongi continues his blabbering.

“How can this be okay? How about your camera? I haven’t checked it yet.”

“Hey, don’t worry about it too much. You should actually move fast, you’re still in the competition.” Jimin tries to console him yet it isn’t effective. Yoongi is worried.

“How can I focus on the competition if I’m so worried about you?”

Both of them glance at each other. Yoongi was so shocked with the words he said, and he couldn’t read Jimin’s expression.

He looks away as he corrects his words, “I mean… your polo, your camera, your skin.” He sighs as he lowers his gaze. “I’m really sorry.”

Jimin shifts on his seat. “Yoongi, it's okay. I think the camera is okay. After all, it can still be repaired. My polo? I can have a new one. And my skin? Why worry when you clean it for me?”

Yoongi would like to melt right in, worried yet couldn’t comprehend having this interaction with his crush.

“But, your camera is expensive for all I know. And I know it’s important to you.”

Jimin is confident his camera is in good condition, because he saw Yoongi tripped first, and since he was holding his camera, he had no idea how to catch Yoongi. So, he raised his hand up high, holding the camera with the intention of offering his chest for Yoongi to land on.

“It is. But I can have a new one.” Jimin sees Yoongi’s guilt more probably thinking about its cost, but it’s not what he wants to convey so he adds, “I mean, it’s just a material thing and is replaceable. Your pretty face is not.”

Yoongi freezes, and stops rubbing Jimin’s hand. He could feel the hairs at the back of his neck stand too. He thinks he’s blushing really hard as well.

“Uhm… I’m just too clumsy.”

Refrain from being clumsy as it may danger you or the people around you.

Clumsy… It’s written on his horoscope today.

Eyes wide, he looks up at Jimin only to see him staring at Yoongi’s hands holding his. Are stars starting to align for him and Jimin?

“Hey, Yoongi… You should go back to the competition. I’m sure they’re looking for you now.”

“H-huh? Y-yeah. Yeah. I should go.” Yoongi finally lets go of Jimin’s hands and proceeds to fix his stuff.

“Wait.” Jimin calls, reaching for his wrist. When Yoongi turns to him, Jimin slowly removes his eyeglasses, making him flinch.

“W-what are you-”

“Your eyeglasses have paint stains too. Let me clean it for a bit.”

Yoongi blinks hard as if his eyeglasses are his lifeline. He scrunches his nose which makes Jimin giggle. “You look different without your eyeglasses.”

Yoongi stares at the direction of his eyeglasses on Jimin’s hands even though it gets a little bit blurry.

“Ugly?”

“No. Prettier.”

Yoongi wasn’t able to respond after that. Not because he doesn’t know what to say, but more so he would like to explode. He wants to jump in the bed and scream his lungs out.

“Here, I think it’s a lot better than earlier.” Jimin hands him his eyeglasses, and Yoongi wears it again.

“Thank you.”

Jimin stands up for Yoongi to get up too because he’s now worried about the competition. “Let’s go back there.”

“Jimin?”

Jimin, who is now by the door, looks back again. Yoongi followed him.

“Here’s my extra shirt. Please wear it. I’m still guilty about my carelessness.”

Jimin chuckles and gets it from Yoongi. “Okay, I’ll wear it. Thank you, and good luck on the competition. I’m rooting for you, Yoongi.”

**********

“Pass the green paint, please.”

Hoseok, the self-proclaimed assistant of his nerdy best friend hands him the can as requested.

“Here, your Highness.”

“The red one, please.”

“Here, your Majesty.”

“The blue one, please.”

“Here, your Honor.”

“Thanks.”

Hoseok furrows, and goes to Yoongi’s side, hands on his hips. “What’s with you?” He asks, wondering why this nerd is smiling the whole time.

“Nothing.”

“Did Jimin do something with you because of the incident?”

Yoongi shakes his head. “Do I look like I was bullied?”

“No, I mean, I think it went well and Jimin was so understanding about it. Then why are you smiling?”

“Nothing. I found my inspiration for the mural.”

“On the incident? You’re fucking weird, as always.”

Yoongi stops for a bit and looks around, and spots Jimin with his camera, busy taking photos of the participants. His guilt finally subsides upon learning that the camera is safe, and the fact that Jimin wears his shirt.

Yellow is Yoongi’s favorite color, and yellow looks good on Jimin. He recalls today’s horoscope. Their lucky color matches too.

Jimin catches his gaze and gives him an encouraging smile. Yoongi reciprocates it and turns his attention back to the wall.

He suddenly feels inspired. Yoongi couldn’t exactly picture it in his head, but more so recalls the feeling of touching Jimin’s hand. There’s something in it that ignites in his chest that makes him weak in the knees, and giggles out of the blue.

“You are crazy too, Hyung.” Hoseok judges, shaking his head in disbelief.

Win or lose, Yoongi doesn’t mind anymore, his mind and heart afloat with the fact that his clumsiness resulted in having an interaction with his crush, Jimin.

**********

Daily Horoscope - 02 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
An unfinished business will keep you connected to certain people and you cannot get away with it easily. It’s either you stress about it or enjoy the ride. Choose wisely.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
An opportunity opens for you. Be it in school, work, or personal life. Don’t waste it. Don’t let the chances slip away. Best of luck!

The competition went smoothly, and all entries are covered for the meantime. A culminating activity will be held by the end of the week for the public view and announcement of the winners.

Yoongi, Yijeong, and Kihyun are satisfied and confident with the outcome. They do not expect to win, but sure their work won’t come last.

“Yoongi, your input made our final outcome beautiful. I like how we did it.” Yijeong commends.

“I agree. Everything just sits perfectly.” Kihyun agrees too.

The little chit chat makes Yoongi’s day start off well. He thinks the competition is what makes him connected to Yijeong and Kihyun. It’s probably what his horoscope says.

His day goes on like usual. Classes, breaks with Hoseok who keeps on talking to him, steals glances at Jimin, and of course the daily horoscope. Until it’s afternoon, Yoongi is getting some of his books in his locker, when a familiar voice speaks.

“Yoongi?”

The intense feeling of surprise got into him, and Yoongi could feel his cheeks burn with the way his name was called. He closes the locker door and is enthralled with how close Jimin is in his face, and the fact that Jimin looks so handsome with his brush up hair.

“Y-yes?”

Jimin scratches the back of his head before speaking, “Uhm, my mom is asking about my polo. Mind if I get it back?”

Yoongi feels worried. “Oh that. It’s at home. I’m still trying to get rid of the paint stains but I don’t know if I could…” There’s no way Yoongi could save the polo, so instead he worriedly asks Jimin, “Is your mom mad at me?”

“No, Yoongi. Don’t worry. I told her it’s my fault, but she’s just looking for it.”

Yoongi feels more guilty. Jimin even covered it for him. “I’m really sorry.”

Jimin could sense Yoongi feels uncomfortable already so he tries to calm him down. “Hey, Yoongi, it’s fine. It’s done already so no need to worry about it.”

Yoongi thinks for a bit, he needs to prepare and study for his math quiz bee competition outside their school tomorrow, but he needs to give Jimin his polo back.

“Is it okay if I drop your polo at your house later?” Yoongi suggests. Being classmates for so many years, and for all the group projects their class spent at each other’s houses, their addresses aren’t an issue anymore.

“Are you sure? You can just bring it tomorrow. It’s not a rush.”

“Tomorrow is my quiz bee competition. I will not be here tomorrow.”

Jimin is a bit surprised, as if he was reminded of something very urgent, and later on his expression turns blue.

“So you mean to say you will be here the following day?” Jimin clarifies and Yoongi nods in response.

“I mean, I’ll be here very early tomorrow and I will take the school service along with the other participants. We will leave earlier than the morning assembly, and we might go home very late too.”

“Oh, I see. How’s your preparation going?” Jimin suddenly asks. It’s very unusual.

“It’s fine. But I still have to go over some lessons tonight.”

Jimin nods and adds nothing more, so Yoongi tries to end their conversation by saying, “I’ll drop by later. Please tell your mom I’m very sorry.”

Yoongi gets distracted about three things: another day of interaction with Jimin, Jimin covering up for him, and him going to Jimin’s home tonight.

**********

Yoongi is annoyed. He is trying to study but his neighbor is having a party. The loud karaoke won’t seem to end anytime soon. He checks the clock and it’s almost seven in the evening.

“I still have three chapters to read and try.” He mumbles, until his gaze lands on Jimin’s polo, hanging neatly on his cabinet. It’s dry cleaned and freshly ironed yet stained with yellow paint.

“Oh shoot!” Yoongi panics. “I told Jimin I’ll bring it to his house.”

Yoongi changes his clothes, packs the polo in a paper bag, and brings his math book with him, hoping he could find an open coffee shop nearby to study.

“Mom, I’ll just go outside! I’ll drop by Jimin’s house and will try to get some milk tea.” Yoongi screams by the door. His mom peeks at him and asks, “Why don’t you eat dinner first?”

“It will not take that long.”

“Okay. Take care!”

Yoongi stands in front of Jimin’s house, holding the things he packed, along with three milk teas. He gulps, wondering why he even bought those milk teas with him. A peace offering? A bribe? He won’t pay any visit either, he will just give the polo back to Jimin.

Why does he feel so nervous?

In passing, Yoongi recalls today’s horoscope, mouth drops with a sudden realization. Is Jimin the person whom he couldn’t get away with easily? Is the stained polo the unfinished business?

Oh my golly.

“Yoongi?”

Yoongi is startled. The gate opens, revealing Jimin in his simple house clothes.

“H-huh?”

“When did you arrive?” Jimin asks, confused. He looks left and right on the street to check any vehicle around. “Are you alone? Why aren’t you knocking?”

“Uhm, I just walked. N-no worries. I just arrived.” Lie. “You came out right in time.” Yoongi alibis. “By the way, here’s your polo. Please tell your mom I’m really sorry.”

“What are you apologizing for?” A woman joins them, making Yoongi nervous. Jimin looks back.

“Mom, you’re being nosy again.” Jimin replies. Confirming it’s Jimin’s mother, Yoongi likes to disappear. He fears Jimin’s mom will scold him, which is totally understandable.

“But I heard my name.” Mrs. Park rebuts. She is not scary but cheerful even. The more Yoongi shuts his mouth, the more he prolongs his agony of getting scolded.

“Hi Mrs. Park, I’m Min Yoongi, Jimin’s classmate.” He introduced himself. “I heard you were looking for Jimin’s polo. It’s actually my fault. I accidentally splashed paint on him. I tried to clean it but I ruined it. I’m really sorry. I caused so much trouble on Jimin that day.” Yoongi explains with all the courage he has, expecting for the worst.

“Is this why you’re here?” Mrs. Min asks, lost and clueless, glancing at Jimin from time to time. Yoongi nods and lowers his head after.

“Here it is, Ms. Park. I’m really sorry.” Yoongi apologizes again, handing her the paper bag.

Mrs. Park appreciates Yoongi’s honesty and effort to rectify things, and exerts time to drop by their house for this. It isn’t a big deal after all.

“It’s okay, sweetie. It’s just a polo. The good thing here is that nothing bad happened to you and Jimin.”

Yoongi finally breathes in relief.

“What about the other plastic in your hand?” Mrs. Park cheekily asks, pointing at Yoongi’s other hand he is keeping behind him.

“Mom! That’s none of our business anymore.” Jimin nags.

Yoongi blushes, also from the fact that Jimin gets curious too.

“Uhm this… I- I don’t want to come empty handed, and I have no idea what you guys want, and I’m craving milk tea because I’m stressed, so I bought it. Also, a little something because I ruined Jimin’s polo.”

“Hey, Yoongi. You don’t have to bother. I told you it’s fine.” Jimin sounds concerned.

“It’s so nice of you, Yoongi.” Mrs. Park compliments. “Why don’t you come inside and join us for dinner?”

“Mom!”

Yoongi’s cheeks are probably so pink at this point. His crush’s mom is not mad, and is inviting him over for dinner? What sorcery is this?

He couldn’t refuse yet he didn’t ask permission from his mom. “Uhm, but I haven’t told mom. Is it okay if I leave after eating?” Yoongi hesitates.

“No worries.” Mrs. Park agrees. “Just a few quick bites will do. It’s rare to have Jimin’s friends over. Let’s get inside.”

Mrs. Park heads inside first leaving the two at the gate.

“Sorry for my mom, Yoongi.”

“It’s okay. I’m really scared. I thought she’s going to yell at me.”

“Don’t worry, she won’t. She only nags at me.” Jimin jokes, making Yoongi at ease. “Let’s go?”

They both headed to the dining area where Yoongi is seated beside Jimin, and his mom sat across from them. Mrs. Park shares that Jimin’s father is still on his way home, and that Jimin’s older brother is staying at his university dorm.

“Yoongi, I heard you are your section’s cream of the crop. Jimin talks about you a lot!” Mrs. Park shares, causing Jimin to kick his mom’s feet under the table.

“Oh, d-does he? T-thank you. But it’s not that.” Yoongi stutters, gripping his spoon and fork tight, wanting to hold onto something more stable because he couldn’t take this information anymore.

Jimin talks about him?

“Hmm, he said you’re representing your school for a math competition?”

Even that detail?

“Hmm, yes. The competition is tomorrow. I still have a few chapters to review but I couldn’t concentrate because our neighbor is having a party.” He blurts out, unintentionally.

“Is that why you have that book with you?” Mrs. Park pouts at the book on the table, beside Yoongi. Jimin peeks at it and begins to worry about Yoongi.

“Where are you planning to study then?” Jimin joins.

“Uhm, I’m planning to look for a nearby coffee shop where I can study for a few hours. I just need a few hours of silence.”

“You are such a diligent student. You can stay here, Yoongi.” His mom suggests “Aww- Jimin?! Why do you keep on kicking my feet? What if I kick you out of the house?!” Mrs. Park complains.

Yoongi doesn’t know how many times he gets flustered this day, but Jimin, after being called out, looks the same.

“It’s not that I intend to Mom. Our cat keeps on licking my feet.”

Mrs. Park puts a straight face. “Jimin, we don’t have a cat.”

“Oh. I forgot.” Jimin answers, lowering his head as he focuses back on eating, feeling a pair of innocent eyes looking at him.

“Jimin, please let Yoongi study in your room for a bit.”

“Uhm, there’s no need, Mrs. Park.” Yoongi protests, blushing hard for Mrs. Park’s order. He needs to think of a reason not to stay any longer. “M-my mom’s going to look for me.”

“Then call your mom and let me talk to her.”

“But-”

“It’s safer here, sweetie.”

Jimin knows he couldn’t stop his mom and actually has a point so he decides to encourage Yoongi to say yes.

“I will walk you home later. Mom and I will be relieved that you are safe. I learned how to make coffee, I can make you one.”

“How about the milk tea?” Yoongi asks innocently.

“Oh that, yes we can have it first.”

“Okay.” Yoongi fished out his phone from his pocket and dials his mom’s number. After a few rings, his mom picks it up and tells her Mrs. Park wants to speak to her.

Mrs. Park takes over and after a few details, the reason for Yoongi being at their house, and a few catch ups, they end the call.

“Yoongi, your mom said yes. But she’s not aware of the polo.”

Yoongi’s gazes at the floor. “I didn’t tell her because I don’t want to be a burden. So I cleaned it myself.”

Jimin stares at Yoongi after that, the memory of Yoongi cleaning his hands flashes on his head. No wonder how stressed he is.

“Don’t keep it to yourself next time, okay? You will never be a burden to your parents. Always remember that. Plus, it’s not a big deal. Jimin here actually did worse than that.”

“Why is it about me now?” Jimin asks, perplexed.

“It’s because you’re a headache sometimes. You don’t even study. Why don’t you be like Yoongi?”

Yoongi believes everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and he hates when people, especially parents, compare their child to him, so he tries to dismiss Mrs. Park's remarks nicely.

“Mrs. Park,” Yoongi starts. “Jimin is the school newspaper’s official photographer. He takes the best photos, and is even set to compete next month. Like me, he will also represent our school. He’s good in class too, but his passion towards photography is really something else.”

Jimin hides the smile forming his lips. It’s as if Yoongi brags about him, and feels so good it all came from him. For the longest time, Jimin feels proud about himself, in what he does.

“That’s good to know, then.” Mrs. Park is satisfied with what she hears and gives Jimin a high-five. “Good job, son!”

Yoongi ends up in Jimin’s room, on his study table, trying his best to focus on the chapters he needs to study. It’s hard, especially when he is alone with his crush. He keeps on biting the straw of the milk tea, choking even on the pearls.

“Thank you, Yoongi.” Jimin says. Yoongi looks back at him, and sees him sitting on his bed, sipping on his milk tea.

“What for?”

“For the milk tea, and for the things you said about me to my mom.”

“Because it’s true.” Yoongi smiles. “I may excel on stuff like this, but you excel on your own craft. And people should recognize that.”

Jimin smiles, moved by what Yoongi says. He could feel the sincerity of Yoongi’s words.

“Thank you for letting me stay here.” Yoongi says too. “I’m sorry to barge in.”

“No, it’s okay. I’m glad you stayed. It relieves me to know you're safe.”

“You don’t have to walk me home later, okay?”

Jimin shakes his head. “No.”

“Jimin.”

“I said no. I won’t let you go home alone. It’s dark outside. Who knows there are bad people out there? What if something unfortunate happens to you? I couldn’t stomach that thought.”

“W-why though?”

“Because you’re too precious.”

“W-what?!”

Jimin coughs as a pearl gets stuck in his throat, something he is actually thankful about, so he could get away with this conversation. Why did he say it out loud?

“J-jimin! Are you okay?” Yoongi is about to stand up but Jimin stops him.

“I’m okay. Just… continue studying, don’t mind me here. I’ll keep quiet.” Jimin goes to the bathroom and coughs his lungs out.

Yoongi left there alone, flustered, absorbing everything- how he ends up here, down to Jimin words. Overall, on how he gets this interaction with Jimin.

The stars are aligning again.

**********

After playing a few rounds of wrestling on his older brother’s PlayStation, Jimin goes back to his room to check on Yoongi.

“Yoongi? Are you still ok-” Jimin stops as he sees Yoongi slumped on his desk, asleep. He went closer and saw how innocent and pure he looked even in his sleep, his eyeglasses still on.

He checks the time, it’s almost ten in the evening. Yoongi should be home by now.

“Yoongi.” Jimin calls, trying to wake him up, but no response. He slowly taps his shoulder and calls again.

“Yoongi, wake up. I’ll get you home. We promise your mom to take good care of you. Also, you’re leaving early tomorrow.”

Yoongi groans and even positions himself more comfortably. Jimin shrugs, thinking of more ways on how to wake him up, and at the same time more chances of staring at Yoongi’s face.

Who would have thought he would have his nerdy, cute classmate over? All he knows is that Yoongi is always in dire need of books, always ahead in all topics in class, talks weird stuff with Hoseok, and loves art. But having him over and having a fun chat with his mom is something new.

As if he is introduced to a whole new person. Yoongi isn’t weird like how their classmates, including him, perceive him to be. No, Yoongi doesn’t get bullied, in fact they treasure him, not because of how intelligent he is, but their pack wouldn’t be complete without Yoongi in the equation. He is simple and enjoys being in his bubble. There’s nothing different.

“Good luck on your competition tomorrow, Yoongi Boongi! I’m rooting for you.” Jimin blurts out to the unconscious little one, lips perking up into a sweet smile as softly rubs his knuckles on Yoongi’s cheek.

It feels ticklish, and finally, Snow White finally wakes up.

“Hey…”

Yoongi gets conscious, wondering how long Jimin stands there, worried if he has drools on his lips. He even checks the pages of his math book if there are traces of saliva.

Good thing there isn’t.

“I- I’m sorry I dozed off. I will go home.” Yoongi abruptly closes his book and stands.

“Sure thing. I will walk you home.”

“No need, Jimin.” But Jimin holds on to his wrist to stop him. Yoongi startles and later on stares at Jimin’s hand on his.

“Even without the promise to your mom, I intend to walk you home. And given the time, I am more determined to take you home accompanied.”

In all honesty, Yoongi wants some alone time to scream, to let this overflowing emotion out of his system, because he couldn’t take this any longer. His feelings only grow deeper with this interaction with Jimin.

“O-okay.”

“Good. Before we go, you wear my jacket. It’s cold outside.”

“But-”

“You can just return it when you go back to school.”

Yoongi reaches for the jacket, and wears it. It looked big on him, and he could smell Jimin in it.

“T-thank you.”

“Cute. Let’s go.”

**********

Daily Horoscope - 03 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Believe in yourself and know that you can do anything. Someone is rooting for you. Break a leg!

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
The key is to have confidence in yourself and be aware of your feelings. Going out of your way can sometimes make a huge difference, sometimes to even greater outcomes.

For the love of God, Yoongi did not let the competition stop him from dropping by the library early in the morning to check the day’s horoscope.

Now, he is in the school service on the way to the competition venue, thinking how the day’s destiny will turn around for him and Jimin. Sure, it sits right with his horoscope, as if it knows he has something huge to do this day. But how would it connect to Jimin’s destiny?

As a lucky charm, Yoongi wears the jacket Jimin lent him the night before. It unbelievably calms him. It isn’t different from a typical jacket, but it feels warmer. The smell reminds him of all the recent interaction he had with Jimin.

It feels like Jimin is around to support him too, that alone made him smile and daydream.

“I miss him.” Yoongi mumbles as he opens his math book to check on some notes. He is with the other participants, but he chooses to be alone. At this point, he only wants Jimin or Hoseok to be around. He won’t deny that even Hoseok’s noise gives him energy.

They reach the venue, and wait to be called. Unfortunately, Yoongi is scheduled to compete by one in the afternoon. So, he has nothing to do the whole morning but to re-read his book, or watch the other competition.

Bored and with nothing to chat to, Yoongi decides to play on his phone, until a message notification pops up.

From: Jiminieminie <3
Good luck on your competition, Yoongi! The whole section is wishing you the best of luck!

Shocked with the unexpected message, Yoongi smiles, toes curling in excitement.

“Whole section? Is he the class spokesperson now?” He asks himself, thinking of a good reply. Before he even types a message, another message notification pops up.

From: Jiminieminie <3
I know you can win the competition. Even if not, please know that I am so proud of you.

Yoongi blushes so hard that he even checks if anyone is looking at him. He ducks his head and hugs his phone tighter and squeals as quiet as possible, stomping his feet even.

“Oh my golly, my horoscope today aligned! Are we destined?” Yoongi tells himself, a smile never left his face.

Yoongi feels energized. It’s as if it’s the only motivation he is waiting to get through the day. He is more determined to win the competition to make Jimin even more proud.

“Yoongi!” One of his co-participants calls. He looks back at her. “We will have our lunch. Let’s go!”

“Sure. I’ll follow you guys.”

Yoongi arranges his stuff and goes out of the venue to follow his team, but as soon as he reaches the exit, he notices someone waiting by the hallway, checking people one by one, hoping to see the person he is waiting for.

“Jimin?” Yoongi whispers.

“How come he is here?” Yoongi asks himself, surprised by his presence. He doesn’t want to assume yet his heart keeps on beating so loud as if it wants to get out of his chest. “What is he doing here?”

There’s no other way to go to the venue’s cafeteria but the hallway where Jimin is standing. So he walks casually, restraining himself to give this giddy expression over the fact that he is happy to see Jimin in person.

“Jimin.” Yoongi calls. Jimin faces him, who gives a relieved expression after finally seeing him.

“Yoongi!” He stands up straight.

“W-what are you doing here?”

“I forgot to ask you about the schedule of your competition and I don’t want to disturb your concentration if I call. And I woke up a little late so when I dropped by your house this morning, you weren’t there, and when I reached school, the guard said the service had just left. So, uhm…”

What is Jimin even saying? He dropped by his house? For what? The anticipation is brewing inside Yoongi’s chest.

“Uhm?”

“I prepared a packed meal for you so you have something to munch on while you are here. And…” Jimin scratches his head and later on spills what he wants to say.

“I personally want to tell you good luck, so I excused myself from class to get here.”

“You what???!”

Jimin made that effort for him? Yoongi feels wobbly because he might pass out anytime.

Jimin was flustered, and he couldn’t say anything anymore. “Uhm, yeah. I just… want to do something for you.”

Yoongi bites his lower lip to prevent himself from squealing. He tilts his head to hide the smile forming his lips, his hand on tight fist, his toes curl inside his shoes.

Aaaahhh, to fall into the traps of love!!!

“W-why would you?”

“J-just to show my support.”

“Ohh, okay.” Yoongi is satisfied with that.

“Here, you can have your lunch.” Jimin hands him the lunch bag of food he prepared, and Yoongi takes it.

“Thank you. Until what time are you excused from class?” Yoongi asks.

“I need to be back by 2:00pm.”

“My competition is at 1:00pm. C-can you join me for lunch? Let’s share this food you prepared for me.” Yoong invites, and Jimin beams on the invitation.

“I’d love to.”

They proceed to the venue’s park, where there are a number of picnic tables they could sit on.

Yoongi opens the containers then sits beside Jimin.

“Thank you for the meal, Jimin!” Yoongi says before digging onto the food. Jimin stares at him for a bit, delighted by the sight of Yoongi looking relaxed as he enjoys the meal he prepared. He shares some stories about what happened in the competition this morning, yet it doesn’t register in Jimin’s system.

He just stares at Yoongi and finally feels at ease. It is what makes his day complete.

They enjoyed their time together until Yoongi had to leave.

“I really appreciate your effort, Jimin. Thank you so much. I want to talk to you more, but I need to be at the competition area fifteen minutes before one o’clock.”

“I understand. I’m glad I see you before your competition. Good luck, Yoongi!”

Yoongi gives a curt nod and smiles, “Thank you. I’ll try my best today. Take care when you head back to school.”

“Sure thing.”

“And can you text me when you arrive there, please? Even if I read it late. J-just so I know.”

“Y-yeah. I will do it.”

Yoongi takes a step back. “Okay.” And another step back, and another, until he turns around. But Jimin couldn’t fight the urge not to point something out.

“Yoongi!”

“Hmm?” Yoongi quickly turns around, all smiles.

“You look cute and squishy in my jacket! Bye!”

Jimin runs away, leaving Yoongi dumbfounded.

Yoongi won the competition. Everyone believed it’s because of how such a genius he is, but Yoongi believed it was Jimin’s presence that made him inspired.

And his day ended with a message from someone:

From: Jiminieminie <3
I know you will win! Congratulations, Yoongi! Please take care when you go home and rest. See you in school tomorrow!

He fell asleep with a huge smile on his face, hugging his phone tight in his chest.

Daily Horoscope - 04 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Not only you make the Universe proud, but even the people around you. Your genuineness makes people admire you, or even fall in love with you. Continue to be you. More surprises will come your way.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
The first try is always the hardest, but once you build the courage to try and be able to do it, it will be fulfilling, and you want to risk it more especially if it’s all for love.

“Yoongi! Congratulations! You are a nerd god!” Hoseok greets with a hug the following day when he arrives at school. The others do the same, saying all their warm congratulatory greetings.

Yoongi has no idea how many times he bowed his head and said thank you to all those warm welcome. But as soon as he settles in his chair, his eyes are glued on his phone.

“I will treat you today, Hyung! Do you want a rice meal? Or skewers?” Hoseok squeals, more excited than the one he will treat.

“What do you want to have for lunch? It’s on me! Also, I missed you! I didn’t utter a single word yesterday. That’s how I’m sad when you aren't around.” Hoseok clings on Yoongi’s right arm, and leans his head on his shoulder, fake crying just to annoy him. Yet, Yoongi stays unbothered.

Yoongi remains occupied with his phone.

Hoseok talks about how his day went, and what transpired in school, spilling teas even. “And Jimin persuaded our class adviser to leave.”

With the mention of that name, Yoongi suddenly pays attention.

“What did you just say?”

Hoseok’s shoulders drop as he rolls his eyes in disappointment. “Really, Hyung? You are not listening to me. I hate you.”

Yoongi shakes his head and tries to focus. Hoseok tends to be overreacting sometimes.

“I’m sorry, I’m just- by the way, what were you saying about Jimin?” Yoongi diverts.

Hoseok shifts from his seat as if it will make the tea more exciting. “He was early yesterday. I don’t know. He’s just in a rush, and asked our adviser if he can be excused for the morning classes and be back in the afternoon. When asked why, he just said it’s extremely special and important.”

Yoongi feels the hair in his nape stands.

“In a rush? Was there an emergency?” Yoongi verifies, now wondering if the class knows they were together.

“No. Nobody knows.”

Yoongi gulps. Does it mean he is the one referred to by Jimin as extremely special and important? He begins to blush, heat rushes through his cheeks as he absorbs the thought. He could feel his lips stretch into a wide smile and leaned on his desk to cover his face.

“Huy!” Hoseok panics. “Are you okay? What’s happening to you?” He shakes Yoongi’s shoulders, but the other only shakes his head.

“You just won the competition, and now you’re back to being weird. What’s with you?”

Underneath, Yoongi is all smiles, keeping his emotions from Hoseok so he wouldn’t get teased.

There’s a sudden silence and Yoongi decides to get up, and startles when he sees Hoseok’s suspicious gaze on him.

“Oh my golly!!!” Yoongi reacts, hands on his chest. “I thought you went away!”

Hoseok only raises his brows. “You can’t get away from me. Spill.”

“What?”

“Do you know something?”

“About?”

“About anything?”

“Spill what you know or no fish cake later?” Hoseok challenges him. Yoongi glares. Hoseok knows fish cakes are his weakness, but he has to resist!

“No fish cake later.”

“Spill what you know or no ten sticks of fish cake later?” It gets harder for Yoongi. He shoots a dagger at Hoseok, hands in a tight fist.

Ten sticks of fish cake?! That’s heaven for Yoongi.

“What about fifteen sticks?” Yoongi haggles.

“Don’t fool me. You can’t finish fifteen sticks.”

“I will bring five home for my midnight snack.”

The banter continues and they glare at each other as if they are having the most difficult debate to ever exist.

“That only proves you know something.” Hoseok rests his hands on his waist. “Spill it, and I will buy you fifteen sticks of fish cake with a large drink of your choice. Deal or no deal?”

“D-deal.”

“Whoaw! That fast!!!” Hoseok grins, his tactic never fails to get his way to Yoongi. He leans closer, “I’m all ears. Go on, spill the tea.”

Yoongi rolls his eyes as he sighs, gets to his phone to click on the messages and hands it over to Hoseok for him to see.

Yoongi could see how Hoseok’s expressions gradually changed from a serious one, to his eyes widening in surprise, jaws dropping in disbelief.

“What the hell, Yoongi?!”

“Ssssh!!!” Yoongi motions to cover Hoseok’s mouth. “Keep quiet. S-someone might hear you.”

Hoseok looks around first before leaning closer to Yoongi again for further interrogation. “You mean you were with Jimin yesterday?” He whispers and Yoongi shyly nods.

“W-wait. Wait.” Hoseok scrolls up to read more messages and discovers about Yoongi staying over at Jimin’s house the night before his competition. “Oh my goodness! You guys?”

“No. No. Not that. Not what you think.”

“Why are you blushing?”

Yoongi purses his lips. His silence confirms Hoseok’s question even without directly asking for it; his expression turns to a teasing one.

“Eyyy, Yoongi. Don’t tell me you have a crush on Ji–”

“SSSSSSHHHH!!! I SAID SSSHHHH!! SHHH! SHH! SHH!!”

“Eww, Hyung, saliva shower.”

Yoongi glares at him again, more concerned about spilling his secret.

“So, is that correct?” Hoseok insists, wanting a direct confirmation from Yoongi. “Yiiieeeeh!!!”

Yoongi scrunches his nose, his glare breaks into a small smile into a wide grin, and nods. “Hmmm.”

Hoseok giggles, squealing even more, shaking Yoongi out of extreme excitement over the revelation. “I didn’t know a nerd like you could actually flirt. Sneaky sneaky, huh? Since when have you had feelings towards Ji-”

“Miniboomboom.” Yoongi finishes Hoseok’s words.

“What the heck?”

“His code name shall be Miniboomboom so no one will suspect who we are talking about. Understood?”

“Fine. Fine. Where did you get that code name though? Was there a fairytale I haven’t heard about? But anyway, so?”

Yoongi’s crush grows deeper now that it’s out in the open, not entirely, but at least with Hoseok, whom he could share his feelings with.

“I've liked him ever since. Recently, it’s just, I feel like our stars align, and everything matches at this point. I think Libra and Pisces are a perfect match.”

Hoseok’s mind will explode with this amount of information and realize another thing. “Is this the reason why you wanted to keep a copy of the school newspaper? Because you are checking you and Miniboomboom’s horoscope?”

Yoongi nods without looking at him, feeling exposed.

“Oh my golly.” Hoseok mimics Yoongi’s usual expression. “I aspire to be you, Hyung. You excel in academics and still have time for a love life. And I hate you for about fifteen percent because I overthink about what project needs to keep a copy of those newspapers! I kept one for myself too!

“It’s not that. It’s only the first time I get to experience this.”

“So… How are things going with you and Miniboomboompow?”

Yoongi glares at him again. “Just Miniboomboom!”

“Okay fine, whatever.” Hoseok grabs the day’s newspaper and reads Yoongi’s horoscope. “Oh, it says more surprises, Hyung! Did something happen today already?”

“Not yet. And I’m not waiting. It might get jinxed.”

“Right, but it doesn’t need to happen today! Who knows it could be on your birthday!” Hoseok tickles his side. “Yiiieeeehhh!!! Yoongiboomboom and Miniboomboom!”

“Stop that! May I remind you that I will not forget the fifteen sticks of fish cake and my large drink.” Yoongi reminds Hoseok.

“What are we going to do on your birthday, though? It falls on Saturday! No school!” Hoseok beams on the thought, having a reason to go out on the weekend.

“You’re the only person I invite in my house, though. Of course, you should come. Mom would be happy to see you.” Yoongi says as a matter-of-fact. It turns out to be their tradition too.

“Can I bring extra containers for take home food?”

“Of course. You always do that, and my mom feels proud about her cooking whenever you do it.”

In passing, Hoseok opens up, “You should do some makeover, Hyung!”

“What the hell? No! I don’t see the need for that.”

“Don’t rely on your destiny too much, Hyung! You have to exert some effort too. It doesn’t have to be drastic. Just a little tweak to make him do a second look at you because he was mesmerized! Yiiiehhh!”

Yoongi rolls his eyes, but deep down, interested. “How will I do that?”

Hoseok examined Yoongi from head to toe, until his gaze darted on his eyeglasses. “That!” Hoseok points out.

“What?”

Hoseok gently removes his eyeglasses, and Yoongi squints his eyes immediately.

“There.” Hoseok even fixes the strands of his hair. “You are pretty, Hyung. Prettier now. You have to try to look different from time to time. You look… fresh.”

It was a genuine friendly remark, something that made Yoongi smile. Hoseok is right, he has to try new things too, and maybe, just maybe Jimin would notice.

“Yieeeh, I can see your gummies! I know you like my idea! So, let’s check contact lenses later after class?”

Yoongi nods, blushing so hard, feeling excited. “Okay. Can we check some new clothes too? I think I want to dress up on my birthday.”

“Of course!”

Hoseok and Yoongi are giggling in the corner of the room, leaning against each other like usual, enjoying their own little world together.

Meanwhile, Jimin sees and watches them but eventually looks away, and proceeds to his seat. Yoongi notices him, and when Hoseok follows his gaze, the teasing continues.

However, Yoongi wonders why Jimin is acting as if they were not together yesterday. No glimpse or a simple smile? Also, he wants to give Jimin’s jacket back.

Lunch break came, and Hoseok fulfilled his promise. Yoongi has his fifteen sticks of fish cake, and is now sipping on his large mango shake. They keep on chatting as if they were separated for years, even laughing their hearts out with whatever fun stories Hoseok shares.

When they were waiting at the food stall, Yoongi noticed Jimin with his friends in the area too. They passed by them, but Jimin did not bat an eye on him. Weird.

During dismissal, Jimin just disappears. Yoongi got confused. He wonders what happened. Nothing happened. Did the stars take a detour today?

**********

Daily Horoscope - 05 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Stay happy. One is content to see you smile.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
Pain is inevitable. But don’t let the pain stop you from losing the hope and courage you build yourself. Take your time. Take a break, breath and pause if you must.

“Happiness and pain? That’s so opposite, Hyung.” Hoseok reads before looking at Yoongi. “You didn't hear from Miniboomboom yesterday?”

Yoongi weakly nods. The last time they talked, they were okay. But seeing Jimin now, something doesn’t seem right.

“So what are your plans now?”

Yoongi sighs, holding on to this one chance he could think of. “The jacket. I still need to give his jacket back. Maybe I could get to talk to him through that.”

“Your horoscope doesn’t match with you either. Stay happy, but you don’t seem to be one at this point.” Hoseok examines, worried about his friend and his love life. “Is he in pain? What about?”

Yoongi diverts his attention to his book, not wanting to get distracted by it but he knows he couldn’t. “I need to study.”

“Okay.”

Hoseok didn’t mind bugging Yoongi anymore. When he is sad, he tends to be quiet, and Hoseok respects that.

However, he worries about how gloomy Yoongi has become. Obviously, he becomes affected with the horoscope, and how Jimin is acting towards him now. So at breaktime, he bought Yoongi some Pepero, honey butter chips and orange juice.

It made Yoongi smile for a bit as if it gave him enough energy and courage to reach out to Jimin. So in their free time, Yoongi approaches Jimin, carrying a paper bag with Jimin’s jacket on it.

“Jimin?”

“Hmm?” Jimin turns to face him, but his expression is not as bright as the other interactions they had. It hurts Yoongi in some way.

“I just want to return this jacket to you. I washed it already so it’s ready for use.” Yoongi starts. He secretly sprayed his perfume on the hoodie hoping Jimin would remember his scent, but he has no plans of telling Jimin about it.

“Oh, that. Thank you.” Jimin reaches for the paper bag without any words after that. Yoongi stands there quietly, anticipating for more conversation, but nothing more happens.

“Do you need anything else?” Jimin asks, cold but polite. Yoongi notices Jimin’s camera hangs on his neck so he figures maybe Jimin is busy.

“N-no nothing else. Are you preparing for your competition?” Yoongi points out, giving it another try.

“Yes.”

“Oh, I see. Do you need help with anything? Maybe I could-”

“Sorry Yoongi, but I have to go.”

“Oh, okay.”

Then Jimin leaves.

Yoongi was so lonely that day. Jimin suddenly becomes distant. However, he observes that where he is, Jimin is around too, yet no interaction at all. Some girls who clearly have a huge crush on him take their chances, and luckily get to talk to Jimin.

He wants that to.

They share stolen glances even, as Hoseok observes. When one stares, the other will look away and vice versa. What’s the matter?

“Hyung, are you okay?” Hoseok asks.

“I just want to go home.”

“Okay then, we’ll save the hot ramen some other time.”

The stars took another route today.

**********

Daily Horoscope - 06 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Someone misses you. Someone is hoping you like them too. But if your heart desires someone else, it will be fine, even if it hurts.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
Feel the pain, until it hurts no more. But there’s no harm in trying again.

“Why does the horoscope feel so gloomy today?” Hoseok mutters. Today, Yoongi doesn’t want to read the newspaper, but Hoseok insists. He is more invested in his lovelife now and rooting for him and his Miniboomboom.

“I told you not to read it.”

“But still! It’s somehow connected, Hyung. Something about your horoscopes align! Aren’t you amazed?”

“That’s the thing. I am amazed, and it gives me a false sense of hope because it’s so good to be true. I am believing it because it’s happening. But now we are going downhill and I don’t have a clue what went wrong.”

Yoongi shrugged. “I can’t focus on my studies and I’m disappointed at my score in our quiz earlier.”

Hoseok gives him a disgusted look. “Really? You are disappointed at 49 over 50? Why am I so proud at 28 over 50? What is wrong with me?”

Yoongi rolls his eyes and shakes his head. He wants to reach out again, to try again and maybe ask Jimin what goes wrong.

Little did he know that Jimin is bothered with their lack of interaction too. Something bothers him when he sees Yoongi so happy with Hoseok. Not that he is not used to seeing the two being together, but after the short time he spent with Yoongi, Jimin wants to have that kind of happiness with him too.

He could see Yoongi’s gummy smiles from laughing too much to whatever nonsense Hoseok says. Hoseok knows a lot about him, on how to make Yoongi feel better. He wonders how Yoongi could tolerate him whenever he bugs him, especially when he is studying.

Jimin wonders how it feels like hanging out with Yoongi after school, eating fish cake, or skewers, bickering over which tastes better-strawberry or mango shake.

Hoseok seems to be so special for Yoongi to the point that he is the only person he wanted to be with on his birthday. Yes he heard that too.

Those little things seem ordinary yet are precious to Yoongi, that’s for sure. And nothing compares to the genuine bond, not even the limited time he had with Yoongi. There’s more to discover about Yoongi that Hoseok only knows.

Their personalities match regardless of their huge differences, and Jimin couldn’t match that.

Later that day, Yoongi and Jimin unexpectedly met at the locker area. Yoongi is choosing the book to bring home while Jimin is organizing his camera accessories.

Nobody’s there and it would be more awkward if they pretend not to see each other. So, they are both reading the air, until they glance at each other, Jimin pulling away immediately.

Yoongi feels a pang in his chest with the way Jimin avoids him, and he has no idea why. Did he do something wrong? He wants to curl up in a ball and dissipate. He couldn’t stand this coldness between them. Until…

“Yoongi?”

It’s Jimin, that’s for sure. Yoongi stands still, slowly glancing at Jimin.

“Hmm?”

Jimin scratches the back of his head, pulling himself together before speaking, “W-will Hoseok be mad at me if I ask you out after class?”

“W-what?” Yoongi couldn’t comprehend clearly. Did he hear it right? Jimin, his crush, is asking him out? But what’s with Hoseok?

“N-no worries. I just don’t want to go beyond the borders.”

It gets more blurry and confusing. Beyond borders?

“No, I mean, why are you more concerned about what Hoseok will say? I’m the one you’re asking out, not him.”

“Uhm, because he might get mad that his boyfriend is being asked out? Well, he has the right to, and what I’m doing is completely inappropriate.”

“What?!” Yoongi was surprised.

“Sorry, I shouldn’t have asked.”

Yoongi feels dizzy. He wants to clear things out. “Wait, I mean, you thought Hoseok is my boyfriend?”

Jimin turns to his locker, ashamed of his failed attempt. “Sorry. Forget about what I asked.”

Trying to connect the dots, Yoongi bravely asks, “By any chance, is that the reason why you are avoiding me? Because you thought Hoseok and I are a thing?”

Jimin doesn’t respond, or rather couldn’t respond due to the fact that he jumped into a conclusion right away. The lack of reaction from him makes Yoongi even sadder.

“But we are just friends.” Yoongi adds, his expression looks so lost and innocent.

“I feel sad.” Yoongi admits, making Jimin glance at him, feeling guilty. Yoongi sensed it, and he continued fixing his stuff. “We were happy that day, then the following day you stopped talking to me. I wonder if I did something wrong. I’m sorry if I did something stupid.”

He could feel the heat rush through his cheeks over his confession. He doesn’t know if he could even face Jimin again. Jimin has no obligation on him yet he couldn’t mask it any longer that Jimin’s aloofness affects him.

Jimin is appalled with the information. He feels stupid for making Jimin sad. His assumptions are wrong and allowed his emotions to rule over him instead of clarifying things first.

“No, no. Y-you didn’t do anything wrong. I just-” Jimin couldn’t bring himself to tell Yoongi he is the one who did something stupid. “I just thought you guys were, and I drew the lines.”

Yoongi blushed.

“Y-you could have asked me.”

Jimin stays quiet then eventually apologizes. ”I know, and I’m sorry. I just couldn’t bring myself to ask you.”

“But you are asking me out. Isn’t it the same thing?” Yoongi asked quizzically, as if solving another math problem. “But it’s okay.”

“I’m sorry for making you sad.”

There’s still a big question mark on Yoongi’s head, but Jimin’s honesty gradually relieves him. It was a matter of miscommunication and assumption. But what makes it confusing is why Jimin thought of it that way? But does it matter now?

“Apology accepted.” Yoongi flashes a shy smile.

“Uhm, so no one will get mad?” Jimin asks again.

“Huh?”

“If I ask you out later?”

“Why would you?”

“Hmmm, because I’ve missed you.”

JIMIN, YOU GOT MY HEARTBEAT RUNNIN’ AWAY! BEATING LIKE A DRUM AND IT’S COMING YOUR WAY!!! CAN’T YOU HEAR THAT BOOM, BADOOM, BOOM BOOM, BADOOM, BOOM, BASS? JIMIN GOT THAT SUPER BASS!

Yoongi’s mind screams.

Yoongi wants to explode, mind wanders back to today’s horoscope. The stars are aligning again!!!!

He shakes his head to shake off the song in head, the song where he derived the Miniboomboom codename.

“Y-you do?”

Jimin nods without meeting his gaze.

“I- I, uhm, I miss you too.”

Both look away, trying to hide the smiles forming their lips.

Oh my golly! Oh my golly! Yoongi’s heart’s going Bang-bang into the room!

“I will just fix my things and we can go.” Yoongi excuses himself first. As soon as he closes his locker, he calmly turns around to go back to their room, and when out of Jimin’s sight, he runs as fast as he could and finally releases all his muffled screams and giggles until he sees Hoseok.

“Seok! Seok! Oh my golly!!!”

“Hey! What happened to you? You look happy now!”

Yoongi stops in front of him, doing a little wiggly dance. “Miniboomboom asked me out! Sorry I couldn’t go home with you later. But I’ll tell you everything tonight. Okay?”

Hoseok’s worries are replaced with teasing and happy smiles. “Fine, fine. I understand. Wait, does it mean he is that ‘someone’ in your horoscope today?” He clarifies.

Yoongi grins, “He is! He said he missed me.”

Both stop and stare, and upon the realization of destiny turned to reality, they both jumped and screamed.

“Yoongiboomboom, I’m so happy for you! Tell me everything later, okay?”

Hands clutched on the straps of his backpack, Yoongi walks silently beside Jimin. They just got out of the school, went their way to have some snacks at food stalls in the nearby park along the way.

It’s unbelievable that Jimin knows Yoongi’s favorites without asking. He even bought him extra servings of fish cake he can take home.

When they resumed walking, with no shame, Yoongi asked, “Why did you ask me out?”

Jimin swallowed the food he was chewing before responding, “I just want to be with you.”

“W-why? This is very unusual. Sure, we get to see each other in school every day, do school stuff, be group mates in some subjects… Then why this all of a sudden?” Yoongi expounds, now wanting to dig deeper because his feelings are the same.

Jimin looks at him, and naturally wipes off the sauce on the side of his lips with a tissue, like a normal thing he does, and Yoongi just lets him, or rather say too late to protest, and more so, falling deeper.

“Would you believe me when I say you are special to me?”

Yoongi looks away, flustered, his stomach crumbles with the butterflies dancing their hearts out.

“M-me?”

“Hmmm. It’s hard to explain, Yoongi. But I hate not doing anything, so I'm trying.”

“Trying to do what?” Yoongi asks again, wanting clarity more than anything, resisting the excitement he feels.

Jimin looks around, gathering his thoughts in the simplest way possible, but all he had prepared for suddenly vanishes. But it’s his moment, his chance.

Suddenly, it starts to rain.

“Oh my golly!” Yoongi panics, and Jimin is quick to cover him with his jacket as they jog their way to the nearest waiting shed.
“My fish cake.” Yoongi mutters.

Jimin giggles, “You rather get wet than your precious fish cakes, hmm? Can you go a little faster? I’m worried you might get sick.”

Yoongi looks at him, surprised to see Jimin starts to get drenched from the big droplets. “Oh my golly, you–” Yoongi holds Jimin's wrist as they run faster.

“Whew! That was tiring!” Jimin breathes when they reach the shed, and focuses back on Yoongi. “Are you okay?”

The other panting heavily, gives him a reassuring nod.

“Let me see.” Jimin pulls Yoongi to face him, removes the jacket and tosses it over his shoulder. He then pulls a handkerchief in his pocket and starts to wipe Yoongi’s forehead.

Yoongi stands still, his heart screaming in happiness. He wonders if he is dreaming, because this exactly appears in his delusions, a wishful thinking, a what-if moment with his long-time crush.

“Can I remove your eyeglasses?” Jimin whispers, and as if fell in a magic spell, he nods. He scrunches his nose the moment the eyeglasses detached from him.

Jimin smiles and starts to clean it. “You look cute with your eyeglasses, and you look beautiful without them.”

“J-jimin.”

“I mean it, Yoongi”

They lock gaze for a good moment, a mutual feeling surrounds the air, savoring them without words. They know. They both know.

And as it came to their realization, they both looked away, smiling.

**********

Daily Horoscope - 07 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Happiness looks good on you. Your smile brings so much warmth to others, makes them want to make you happy too.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
Keep on trying. After all, you do it out of love.

Hoseok keeps on teasing Yoongi the following day. They talked about everything that happened the night before.

Hoseok even promised Yoongi he would buy him the best contact lenses as a birthday gift, because suddenly, Yoongi wants to wear contact lenses over eyeglasses.

“Come on, Yoongi. It’s so clear that Miniboomboom likes you too!”

“But he hasn't said it. He just said I’m special to him.”

“Oh my gosh. Haven’t you connected the dots? I hope you don’t forget he laid low when he thought I’m your boyfriend. That means he got jealous because he likes you!!!”

Deep inside, Yoongi feels giddy. But still, he believes with words too.

They reach the library and as usual, grab the day’s newspaper, and both read it.

“Damn it, Yoongi! That’s it! The Universe conspired! All the stars have aligned! See, he is trying!! He is doing it out of love! AYYIEEEE!!!”

“Hey, Seok! Stop it. I’m blushing here.” Yoongi admits, feeling happier. He wonders what Jimin is up to today. Can he do something too? He will think about it in class later.

When they decide to head back to their room, they come across Mina. She is their classmate too, and a member of the school newspaper.

“Seok, Yoon!” She greets. “Can you guys do me a favor?”

“Sure, even if it’s a math problem. Yoongi is right here!” Hoseok brags, and receives a nudge from Yoongi.

“You’re so funny!” Mina giggles.

“What can we do for you, Mina?” Yoongi asks.

“Uhm, can you guys bring these magazines to our office? I couldn’t find Jimin. I tasked him to do this.”

The mention of Jimin makes Yoongi alert. “Sure. Is this all?”

“Yeah. Thank you guys so much. I could do this but I need some other stuff to do.”

“Sure thing, Mina. No worries.” Hoseok says as he takes the bunch of magazines from her.

When she left, the two shared and proceeded to the office.

“Hello? Anybody here?” Hoseok says as he knocks. Yoongi peeked inside too. It’s their first time there.

“Can we come in? Mina asked us to bring this here.” Yoongi follows.

A little later, one of the senior writers appears. “Oh, hi! Sorry, I was working. Good thing I checked if it’s here. Sure, come in.”

The two bow and head inside. “You can put it here.” The senior writer directs. “Thank you so much.”

When done, Yoongi and Hoseok are all eyes on the office, amazed with the tons of papers scattered on different tables, notes on a whiteboard, different photos and references pinned on their cork board.

It seems that everyone working here is busy and productive, given the fact that they have to be updated on every school stuff and events. Until their eyes are darted into a corkboard in one corner where all zodiac symbols are posted.

Hoseok and Yoongi look at each other, thinking the same thing.

“Are you one of our avid readers of the daily horoscope?” The senior writer asks, smiling fondly at them.

They respond with a smile.

“I knew it.”

“Do you mind if we ask how you do it?” Yoongi asks, confused. Amazed by how things are aligning with his real life stuff.

“Oh that. Our Park Jimin is the master of daily horoscopes.”

“What?” Hoseok reacts.

The senior writer nods. “It’s actually his idea. He suggested that the newspaper should have something light and enjoyable for students. And we agreed, but we asked him that. So yeah, whatever you read in that section, it’s all because of him.”

Hoseok turns to Yoongi who is now quiet. Something is off, so Hoseok asks something on Yoongi’s behalf.

“How does Jimin construct those horoscopes?”

The senior writer thinks for a bit. “I have no idea actually, but whenever he’s here to do and submit his work, he is so happy. He is excited. There was a day when he looked sad, but when he went here earlier, he was energetic again.”

Hoseok glances at Yoongi again, this time, worried.

“Let’s go back to our room, Seok. I forgot that I need to study.” Yoongi says, cold.

“Okay, Yoongi.” Hoseok turns to the senior writer to say thanks. But the writer says something more.

“Oh, so you are Yoongi? The genius Min Yoongi?”

Yoongi faces her without a word. It feels like something is crashing inside his chest. He needs time to process all of these.

“Yes, he is.” Hoseok responds on Yoongi’s behalf.

“By any chance, are you a pisces?”

“He is.” Hoseok responds again.

“Ohh, okay, now I get it. Jimin is always paying attention to that sign.”

“Seok, let’s go.”

**********

“Yoongi!” Hoseok calls, running after him. “Yoongi, wait!”

Tears streamed down Yoongi’s face without him knowing. He keeps on walking, heart crashing. He should be happy, but why does he feel otherwise?

He feels betrayed. He feels being played on.

“Yoongi!” This time, Hoseok reaches his elbow and pulls him around. He is surprised to see Yoongi’s red eyes.

“The horoscope… He knows about it, Seok. Can’t you see? He is the one who made all of it! He knew! He knew what’s going to happen! And he made me believe it’s destiny working for us!”

Oh, poor Yoongi.

Yoongi wants to run away again, but when he turns around, Jimin is standing there, appalled.

Jimin feels a pang in his chest when he sees Yoongi crying.

“Y-Yoongi, let me explain…”

“Explain what? Explain when? Did you enjoy playing with my feelings?” Yoongi tries to yell at him but fails. He couldn’t dare raise his voice on anyone. He feels so small and stupid.

“N-no…”

“Then what? Am I in for some bet or something? Is it because I can be bullied easily because of how weird I tend to be?”

“Yoongi, no! That’s not it. It will never be. Everything I said, everything I do–”

“You manipulated all of it.” Yoongi sobs. “I like you, Jimin, a lot. But now I hate you.”

Yoongi runs away, and Hoseok follows, leaving Jimin dumbfounded.

That night, Yoongi asks his mom if he could stay over at Hoseok’s house, saying he needs to tutor Hoseok for their upcoming math exam. Good thing she said yes, so Yoongi could cry his heart out.

Hoseok, for the love of God, buys all the fish cake in the nearby store, comforting his precious friend.

He wants to get mad at Jimin, but as Yoongi’s friends, he has to know everything.

Meanwhile, Yoongi feels heartbroken. He doesn’t want to believe in horoscopes ever again.

**********

Daily Horoscope - 08 March 2024
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Some people did you wrong that will surely hurt your heart. They want to apologize and make amends.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
You are stupid.

“Hyung…”

“Why did you read it? And why did you get a copy in the first place? That’s nothing, remember?” Yoongi says lazily as he slumps into his desk. His eyes are swollen, so he tries to hide from everyone to keep them from asking things.

The thing is, Jimin reached out to Hoseok immediately. He explained why he did it.

“I like your friend, Hoseok. But I don’t know how to approach him. I don’t know how to make a move. So when I saw you guys hanging around the library to check the newspaper, the idea got into me. I’m sorry. I’m really sorry. I know it’s not in my position to ask for your help, but I just want to apologize to him. Nothing more.”

Jimin told Hoseok everything, and Hoseok knows in his heart that Yoongi likes Jimin dearly.
And he decided he wanted to help both of them, one step at a time.

Later that afternoon, Jimin walks along the mural paintings to take photos and stops when he reaches their section’s entry. He stares to admire the view, and the closest he could get to Yoongi right now.

He remembers where exactly Yoongi painted, and tries to analyze what his paintings mean.
It’s a man holding a camera, facing and taking a beautiful view. The man is facing the other side in which you couldn’t see his face.
At the bottom, there’s a phrase that says:

“The one who takes art, is an art itself - a masterpiece even.”

“It’s Yoongi’s point of view.”

Jimin looks at the person who spoke, startled a bit. “Yijeong.”

The other smiles as he stares at their work. “It’s how he sees someone he admires from afar. Well, that’s what Yoongi told us when we finished that day.”

Can Jimin assume it’s him? But if it is, he feels more ashamed and guilty.
He remains quiet.

“Jimin, we all know how smart and intelligent Yoongi is, but he isn’t hard to read. He sucks at things too and you know what it is?”

Jimin looks at him.

“His feelings. Not that he really sucks at it, but he sucks in hiding it. He is clear, he gives it loud and clear, and I hope you see it. Because we do. It’s very obvious.” Taemin points at the man in the mural.

“I did something stupid.” Jimin replies.

“Then, do the right thing and win his heart back.”

Jimin furrows, “W-what do you mean?”

Taemin chuckles, “You know what? You suck too. The hell, Jimin. The whole class knows the majority of your camera consists of candid shots of Yoongi.”

“W-what?!”

“It’s always the actions, Jimin. You don’t need to say anything for us to figure that out. Now, come on, win him back and be the first couple in our section.”

“Huh?”

“Just, oh God. Do you love Yoongi?”

“Yes.”

“There you go.”

**********

09 March 2024
YOONGI'S BIRTHDAY

“Happy birthday, Yoongi!” Hoseok screams as soon as Yoongi answers his call at five in the fucking morning.

“Aww! You’re too loud, Seok!” Yoongi squints and squirms under his blanket. “But thank you. What time are you coming here? I will ask mom to cook our favorite.”

“Eh? I will ask you in some other place to celebrate. You should try new things too!”

Yoongi is too lazy to go out, but Hoseok is persistent.

“Then where do we go?”

“Just dress up nice, and wear the contact lenses I bought you, okay?”

“Fine, fine.”

“I’ll message you the address of the place. See you later, Yoongiboomboom!”

Yoongi dressed up. He wore the contact lenses Hoseok bought for him. And now he is standing in front of the place Hoseok said they will meet up.

He sent Hoseok a message telling him he is there, and Hoseok said he is on his way, and that he can get inside first. So he did.

A crew assists him inside, to a reserved spot of the small coffee shop, and is welcomed by a banner of him with a happy birthday greeting.

In the center is a table, with a cat design cake, and a bouquet of fresh flowers.

“Please take a seat.” The crew invites, “And happy birthday!”

When left alone, Yoongi looks around, takes the bouquet and takes a seat, smiling, waiting, but feeling sad for not having the date he wished to have.

“Better luck again next year, I guess?” He mumbles to himself.

He checks his phone but no message from Hoseok. Until…

“Happy birthday, Yoongi.”

He looks at the door, and sees Jimin.

“W-what are you doing here?” The mixed emotions started to fill Yoongi’s system.

He is sad, he is mad at Jimin, yet he feels this certain joy of seeing him now.

No, he didn’t rely on horoscopes today, but what is this?

“I’m sorry, I asked Hoseok’s help for this.”

“What?”

“I want to apologize for what I did. And I will apologize until you forgive me. I’m sorry for being so stupid and not thinking about the implications of my actions. I thought it was the best idea.”

“W-why did you do that?”

“I couldn’t think of a way to get close to you, Yoongi. I want to get close to you.”

“Why?”

“Because… Because I like you. I like you a lot. I have liked you ever since.”

Yoongi freezes with the confession.

“I feel happy doing things for you, Yoongi. I am happy to see you happy. Whenever I write those horoscopes, I feel excited, because I’ve given myself a chance to do things for you, hoping you see me as someone special for you. Someone you could love.”

Yoongi blushes.

“But yes, you are right. It turns out I manipulated it, and you have all the rights to get mad at me, and hate me. You may not believe me anymore, but all the moments we shared, it was me. I mean all of it. I like you so much, Yoongi.”

“Jimin…”

“No horoscopes, no destinies involved, no stars to align. This is all of me, Yoongi. This is me saying how I regret doing the stupid shit and not going after you as myself. I’m sorry, Yoongi. I’m very sorry. I want to take my shot on this very day, but instead I made you sad and hurt. I’m sorry, this isn’t what I intend to do on your birthday.”

“I like you too, Jimin.”

Jimin glances at Yoongi, who is wiping his cheeks.

“W-wait, are you crying? W-why are you-shit, I’m sorry. Yoongi, I’m so sorry.” Jimin comes close to wipe the tears in his cheeks.

“I said I like you too, Jimin. I- I know I’m hurt, but we tend to get stupid when it comes to love, right?”

“Y-you do like me?”

“No. I love you, Jimin.”

Jimin’s heart skips a beat.

“You do?”

“Ever since.”

“I love you too, Yoongi.”

“The mural…” Yoongi would like to tell Jimin now but Jimin cuts him off.

“I know, Yoongi. I know. Thank you. I love you so much, my Yoongi Boongi.”

At that moment, Yoongi realizes he doesn’t need horoscopes. He figured, he could just say Jimin is the love of his life even without depending on it. You just have to be honest about it, take it to heart, and go out of your way to try, and enjoy the wonders of love along the way.

“You are the best gift I received on my birthday. I love you too, my Jiminiminie.”

**********