#taehyung war of hormone | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

solarwonux · 2 years ago

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Business Proposal || knj (5/?)

pairing: namjoon x f!reader || ex friends to lovers!au friends to lovers!au

Genre: fluff, angst, smut, slow burn, fwb!au, non idol!au, unrequited love

Warnings: slow burn, angst lots and lots and lots and lots of angst. Jealousy.

Rating: mature, 18+

w.c: 8.3 k

Synopsis: Namjoon is living on borrowed time, and it’s time to cash in. His father is months from taking his last breathe and his life long dream is to watch his oldest son say “I do.”

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a/n: I’m sorry I’ve been taking so long to respond to all the lovely messages I’ve gotten on this story. Also I’m sorry I’ve taken so long to upload, but thank you to those who have stuck around. And thank you for for the 3k! It means so much to me!

Anyway I hope you enjoy this part, pls lmk your thoughts I’m late at responding but I read them all no matter what!

Ever since you can remember, Jimin has always been by your side.

He’s a constant. He’s comfortable. He’s the same.

Nothing much has changed about him, other than the obvious. He grew into his features, he’s leaner and muscular. But nothing about him has changed. He’s still the same person you grew up with. He’s passionate, stubborn, and funny in his own way. You suppose he is a bit more outspoken and confrontational–in a good way, but those are add ons to traits that were already there. He marches to the beat of his own drum but never falls out of line.

He’s always been warm, generous, and familiar.

Jimin was the little boy on your first day of school with the sixty-four pack of crayola crayons. He was the little boy who sat in between you and Taehyung and shared said crayons because his parents always taught him the importance of sharing. He was the boy who wanted to make everyone feel included. Who kissed both you and Taehyung at your seventh grade dance to eliminate any humiliation, because that was the year first kisses were the only subject of conversation amongst your peers.

It was the year the words “prude” and “goody two shoes” decorated everybody’s vocabulary.

It was the year the “no kiss list” went around with yours and Taehyung’s name on it. To your surprise Jimin’s name was absent. Which prompted a very confusing and anger inducing conversation between the three of you, because first kisses were monumental. They were a right of passage and how dare he not tell the two of you that he kissed Ariana–the prettiest and most popular girl at school in a kissing booth at the local state fair.

To save face he decided to redeem himself. The rumors that came out afterwards were far worse than the list, but at least the three of you weren’t lip virgins anymore.

Seventh grade was also known as The War of The Hormones year. Somehow everybody was confused, everybody was angsty, everybody was horny. Bodies were changing, feelings were changing, and Jimin realized that maybe he liked you a little more than a friend would like a friend. But like always, Jimin was nice. He knew about your crush on your school's star athlete so he kept his feelings to himself. Until eventually the flame blew out.

At least that’s what he thought. Junior year of college was a confusing time for him. The two of you had your fair share of “relationships” that should be more appropriately categorized as “flings” because they never really went anywhere.

Except for one–your ex–someone he never liked. There was just something he couldn’t really pinpoint, but he was strange. He would tell you he loved you but he never demonstrated it. You always argued that he had his own way of showing you love. It angered Jimin because to him you were the brightest person in the world. You deserved someone who shined just as bright as you. You deserved someone better.

His suspicions were proven right when you called him before your tutoring session with Namjoon crying. That bastard was a good for nothing asshole who knocked everybody down in order to rise to the top.

It seems like you have a type, because he can’t completely understand why after everything that has happened you have decided to marry Namjoon. He can’t completely understand when, where and how it all happened? He just knows that he doesn’t deserve you, hell, Jimin is fully aware that even he doesn’t deserve you.

Still, Jimin knows you. He knows how calculated and meticulous you are. So, there must be a good reason. At least that’s what he was telling himself the entire two weeks he decided to build a bridge between the two of you. He’s turned every possible answer in his head for nights on end, and he always ended up coming up short. He supposes it’s because he can’t–no–he doesn’t want to face the truth.

That you will never choose him.

Yet, in this very moment as he toys with his mint chocolate ice cream–an acquired taste he admits watching as you hum in delight with every spoonful of Twinberry Cheesecake. He can’t help but believe that maybe this time you did choose him.

The prominent question is aching at the tip of his tongue. He wants to ask, but you’re finally back on Earth and not running lost somewhere in your thoughts. Your tears have dried up and although your eyes are still a bit swollen the sparkle has returned to them. He’s afraid that if he asks you’ll return back to your gray cloud.

“I moved in with Namjoon.” You decide for him as the comment sparks his interest. He digs his spoon into the melting ice cream ball and looks up. He’s aware the hurt is evident in his eyes, but he’s run out of tools to mask it.

“So, you’re really marrying him.” The dry chuckle escapes him and he cringes. He didn’t mean to sound so mean, but he’s past the point of carrying.

You shake your head, putting your spoon down. “Not necessarily. It’s a bit more complicated than that.”

Jimin’s patience is wearing thin. Maybe that’s the one thing that has changed about him. Ever since the facebook status notification, he finds his patience regarding you diminish with every passing day. “Then explain it to me because I am not following it.”

You scoff, crossing your arms in front of you. “If you weren’t so pissy the day you came into the flower shop you would know the truth. It was Taehyung’s movie night. I was going to tell the two of you that night but you came in with your accusations and speculations and didn’t let me talk.”

“What was I supposed to do?”

“You could’ve listened to me.” You respond sadly, moving around the last bit of your ice cream in the cardboard cup.

He sighs defeated and leans his body forward. “I am listening now.”

“We are engaged but we aren’t getting married.” You start slowly. Jimin can’t hide his confusion and it almost makes you laugh. It would’ve made you laugh if you weren’t so exhausted over everything that has happened these past weeks. “It’s all for show. His dad is dying and he wants Namjoon to get married before he passes. Otherwise he will write him out of the will, and his job and inheritance is somehow tied to this. Basically if he doesn’t show signs of settling down any time soon he can kiss his livelihood goodbye.” You finish. It’s the best you could do to explain it in easy terms, because if you were being honest there are things you didn’t understand yourself.

Jimin squints, swiping his tongue across his bottom lip. The way he did whenever he was thinking hard on something. “Okay, so, how do you fall into this?”

Quickly, you eat a spoonful of your ice cream. The sugary sweetness does little to hide your nerves. This is the part you didn’t want to explain. Although your decision to accept made sense to you, you’re aware that it won’t be the case for other people. And sometimes Jimin can be unpredictable, but most of all a little bit judgmental.

Behind his calm and warm exterior laid a nasty monster. He had no filter sometimes and he could be a little bit brutal. It’s one of the reasons why you couldn’t see him as more than a friend. You needed a partner who understood you whether right or wrong. Jimin was not that, he’s so ingrained in his thoughts and beliefs that he has a hard time trying to understand anything outside of that.

“I’m a professor at HYBE U.” You whisper, looking down at your now melted ice cream. The cheesecake chunks are just floating around while the twinberry syrup swirls into the milk. It looks like how you feel. Rough.

Jimin’s eyes look like they’re about to fall out of his sockets. He knew you applied for the job a month after spending months perfecting your resume. He feels a sense of pride rise in him but it’s soon replaced with confusion. “Congratulations, but I’m not following what does that have to do with Namjoon?” He tilts his head pushing his own cardboard cup away.

“He’s the one who offered me the job, and the one who is paying for half of my student loans and the one who is giving me a house.”

It’s hard to catch Jimin off guard. He’s always suspecting and waiting for the next person that’s hiding behind the corner. But you’ve always managed to leave him speechless. This time it’s different. He’s not speechless because of his infatuation for you. He’s speechless because this is something he never once expected from you.

“So he’s basically your sugar daddy.” He deadpans, shaking his head in disbelief before crossing his arms in front of him. “I can’t believe you. I commend sex work that’s fine but I never once thought you’d be one.”

You roll your eyes, pushing your cup away and leaning forward. Maybe if you close the gap between the two of you he will understand that not everything a woman did to get ahead in life involved sex. It’s an argument you’ve had with him before.

“I’m not fucking him. I literally just live with him now and act like his fiance in front of people. Otherwise he lives his life and I live my life separately.” You spit out, leaning back into your chair when you’re done.

Jimin sighs running a hand down his face, This conversation was a lot more taxing than he thought it would be. “Got it.” He raises his hands up in surrender. “But that still doesn't explain why you called me in the middle of a panic attack tonight.”

You nod, “He kissed me. We were arguing and he kissed me.” You flat out say. Jimin closes his fist, gripping the fabric of his jeans. He won’t lie, he wants to runway, scream, or punch something. Anything that will help him release the overwhelming stream of emotions that are running through him.

“I’m going to fucking kill him.” He seethes and he’s about to stand up, but you grab his arm and pull him back down. He’s never seen a more serious expression on your face. You look more ready to kill than he did.

“No you’re not. It was a mistake. The two of us just need to cool down and then hopefully we’ll talk about it. I don’t need you to fight my battles for me Jimin.”

“So, you’re just going to go back to living with him?”

“Where else am I going to live Jimin? That’s my home for now.” You exclaim throwing your hands up in his head.

“But he took advantage of you remember the las–”

“I reciprocated.” You interrupt and before he can get anymore of his comments in you continue. “I don’t know how to get you and Jungkook to know that what happened last time won’t happen again.”

He was a fool to believe that you had finally chosen him.

His heart breaks even more than the night at Taehyung’s party when he confessed his feelings to you. It breaks even more than the morning he woke up to the facebook notification. He didn’t know there was anything left to break and yet here it was shattering into millions of little pieces.

For years he’s had you tucked into his wing afraid of seeing you hurt again. For years he’s prided himself in being the only person you let into your bed and touch in a way exclusively reserved for lovers. For years he’s believed that one day you will be his.

He’s been lying to himself for years. As much as you don’t want to admit it. Your heart has always and will always belong to Kim Namjoon. That is something he will just have to live with. If there’s anything he has learned in the past two weeks where he’s distanced himself from you, and in the past thirty minutes that he’s had this conversation with you.

Is that you’re stronger than what everyone believes and that having you as a friend was better than not having you at all.

“Okay.” He acknowledges with a slight nod of his head. “You’re right. I’m sorry.”

“That’s okay.” You finally smile up at him and he hates how it makes his stomach do summersaults. “But can I ask you for one more favor?” You pout, batting your eyelashes at him and he laughs.

“Go ahead.”

“Can I sleep over until Monday?.”

“Sure but you’re taking the couch.”

In the end, you ended up sleeping in Jimin’s bed. It was a petty argument that lasted about five minutes. He insisted you take his bed while he took the couch. Which neither of you did because you ended up sleeping together in the same bed. In a very friendly and platonic kind of way. With a pillow in between and different comforters.

It felt a little strange for the two of you to not be locked in each other's arms. But it was a boundary that needed to be implemented. As much as you and Namjoon like to tell yourselves and each other that this was just all for show.

Jimin knows better. He’s witnessed the two of you grow into each other from the sidelines. Your feelings for the other party were there and even if Namjoon liked to believe otherwise. His feelings were there, only hidden deep, deep, deep within him.

It’s the reason why Jimin was so angry with the way he handled your confession. It was unfair to you. You weren’t crazy and you weren’t reading into things. His actions were those of love not of friendship. Maybe this time, he’ll be able to finally admit to himself that you were always the one for him.

At least that’s what he hopes. He can’t promise staying away if he lets you go this time around.

“Do you have everything?” Jimin taps his steering wheel with his thumb. You’re in his passenger shaking from nerves.

It’s now Monday, your first day of school. The dreadful day being one you thought you left in the past when you graduated. Though, this time it’s different. This time you’re an educator. The first day of school butterflies were shaking you to the core.

You smooth down the hem of your checkered wool skirt. Unfortunately you had left a lot of your winter clothes at Jimin’s house. So, a nice wool jacket and skirt duo, with one of Jimin's black satin dress shirts was what you had to work with for your first day of school outfit.

You’re praying you don’t die of heat.

“I think so.” You say checking down your mental checklist. “I’m only missing my laptop but my office has a desktop so I’ll be fine today.” You nod, slightly slapping your thighs to hype yourself up.

You feel bad as you made your best friend wake up early to drive you to work, a full hour before you had to actually clock in. You feel bad that you’ve made him sit in the parking lot, witnessing it fill up with sleepy students arriving for their morning classes.

“Alright, if you need anything I’m a text away. And don’t forget you’re meeting Tae for lunch. He’s going to have your head for not telling him everything sooner.” He chuckles, reaching over and squeezing your shoulder gently in reassurance.

You roll your eyes, playfully shrugging his hand away. “How was I, the two of you are two peas in a pod. If you’re pissed he’s pissed and vice versa.” You grumble, grabbing your coat and bag. You’ve been doing this at least five times.

Jimin has asked you the same question literally five times. A tiny hint that it was time for you to finally leave. Not that he was annoyed with you, he was just worried you’d be late. Jimin might not have attended HYBE U but you and Taehyung did, and he frequently visited the two of you when he could. He knows how big the campus is and he knows that the two of you are on the completely other side of your department.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever I’ll text in an hour to apologize again.”

He receives a pointed glare before you open his car door. He guesses you've finally talked yourself up long enough. Unless, you’re going to close the door again and then that will bring the two of you back to square one.

“I’ll call you if anything.” You say and step out, shrugging on your coat and grabbing your bag.

“Good luck, you’re going to fucking kill it.” He smiles giving you a thumbs up. “I’m proud of you.”

“Thanks dad.” You joke, rolling your eyes as you close the door. His laughter rings just as loudly as it would have if the car door was open. You look at him one last time, giggling as he sends you numerous finger hearts. That’s all the motivation you need to finally break through the barrier of nerves. You send him a heart back and turn around, adjusting the leather strap of your purse, hardening your features.

The show must go on.

Your office isn’t big, but it isn’t small either. It's the perfect size for you. As an added bonus it overlooks the beautiful view of the student parking lot, and it’s on a different floor than Namjoon’s. Which means it’s perfect because you can prolong seeing your fake fiancé for as much as possible.

At least that’s what you thought.

After your first class of the day, which went amazing. You forgot all about your nerves the second you stepped into the gloomy classroom. You assume you were well received by your students given that they laughed at all of your stupid little jokes, and didn’t hesitate to add into the class discussion, which was more than what you could ask for. On your way back to the office you were still reeling on the high of standing in front of at least twenty rhetoric students.

The minute you entered your office to get ready to make a few tweaks to your lesson plan. The infamous philosophy professor was standing behind your desk, looking out of the window, hands in the pocket of his slacks, while he tapped his foot against the outdated carpet.

When he heard the door close behind you. He turned around a stoic expression on his face. The high you were feeling from earlier, quickly morphed into the little prickles of your nerves, traveling up your arms and spine.

He looked like he was ready to kill.

“You left this at home.” He broke the silence, taking one of his hands out of his pocket, extending it out to you. He unraveled his fist revealing your engagement ring. “Wouldn’t want people to talk when they don’t see you wearing it.” He added, circling around your desk and walking closer. The only thing keeping the two of you apart was his extended hand, a free invitation to do what you wanted at this moment. He was giving you the choice, an out. You weren’t sure if it was good or bad.

You decide quickly and take the ring from him and silently slip it onto your ring finger. “Thanks I–”

“How was your first class?” He cuts you off, taking a few steps back until he is leaning against one of the burgundy lounge chairs in front of your desk. He crosses his arms in front of him and looks away from you, around your empty office. For some reason this action makes you feel a little self conscious. There’s no personality, except for when you’re inside, but it still screams amateur.

You cough to clear your throat, clasping your hands in front of you. “It went well I had a lo–”

“When’s your last class?” He interrupts you again. You have to tighten the grip of your hands to prevent yourself from yelling out at him. Why was he being extra annoying today? And most importantly why was he acting so strange?

Maybe he still hasn’t cooled off from what happened on Saturday night, because there’s no other reason as to why he would be keeping himself occupied with his surroundings rather than focusing his attention on you. As much as you and Namjoon didn’t get along, he never avoided eye contact. He always felt that it was rude to be looking somewhere else when having a conversation with someone. Yet, here he was keeping himself occupied with the one plant Jimin gifted you sitting on your empty bookshelf. His gaze zeroing in on the little handwritten note.

Fighting, Princess. - PJM x

You can almost hear the audible scoff he lets out when he picks it up to read it closer.

“Four,” he looks up, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “My last class is at four.” You clarify and he nods, carelessly throwing the card onto your desk and pushing himself off the chair.

“Mine is at eight. I’ll see you at home.” He clears his throat, and buttons up the suit jacket. Without so much as a glance he exits your office. It’s not until your door is closed when you finally let out the breath you didn’t know you had been holding in the entire time. But you’re confused, it’s like a newly built wall has surrounded him. He’s harder and tougher, there’s nothing on his face that gives off the indication that he’s lightened up since Saturday or that he is still upset.

There’s nothing.

Namjoon lied.

His last class wasn’t at eight. At least not on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesdays, Fridays. His last class on those days was at two. They were his favorite days because he had the freedom to do whatever he wanted after work. The possibilities were endless, and useless because if he wasn’t at work he was at the gym. If he wasn’t at the gym he was locked up in his home office working on his research.

Research that he was behind on because his mind was occupied on other things.

Other people.

You and Jimin.

Ever since you left on Saturday, Namjoon has tried to do what he does best.

Avoid, avoid, avoid. Bury his head in his research until he can no longer take it. Until it suffocates him enough that he has no other choice but to come up for air. Well…at least that’s what he tried to do, but every time he sat in front of his laptop, glasses perched on the tip of his nose, surrounded by books, journals and notes. His thoughts always zeroed in on the exact moment you ran into Jimin’s arms.

That’s when he starts to spiral, and he ends up seeing nothing but red. The anger consumes him until he’s breathless and sweating, his body consumed with exhaustion, on the floor of Jin’s boxing gym.

He supposes he should be thankful that the overzealous trainer didn’t pry him for questions when he showed up at his doorstep both Saturday and Sunday morning and night. Instead, he wordlessly let him in. Led him to the empty ring and helped him take out his frustration. Each punch he landed brought upon a different emotion.

Anger, confusion, and sadness.

Each punch that he received brought out a different core memory he had kept tucked away. His mothers death, Jungkook and his mother suddenly appearing in his life, the pressure he felt to be perfect, his first love, his first heartbreak, you.

He was exhausted from putting up a facade all the time. He can’t remember the last time he let his walls down, so after being practically beaten up by Jin numerous times he decided that enough was enough. That he would at least try. It is why he was waiting in your office. Namjoon is smart enough to know that a clean slate with you would never be possible. There’s too much history between the two of you. Too many words that were said and left unsaid.

He finally came to his senses after Jin scolded him in a headlock and Namjoon decided to offer you an olive branch.

Then he saw the plant, the handwritten message, and the initials. Instantly he was seeing red again. His plan to welcome you into his home—your home—again flew out the window. His plan to cook you the only dish he knew he couldn’t fuck up—spaghetti aglio e olio—lay forgotten in the back of his mind. Along with the jittery trip to the only grocery store by his house that was still open past two in the morning. And the talk he planned to have with you, to lay it all out in the open. But it was all left in the abyss of his mind the minute he locked eyes with the stupid plant.

He couldn’t even explain the proper care routine you would need to adopt to keep it alive because his pride was bigger than his ego. So he came up with an excuse more for himself because he needed to calm himself down before seeing you at home.

Now, it’s close to lunch time, and he’s hiding out in his office trying to grade the student papers he’s put off for the past week. He saw you in the student parking lot while walking back from grabbing his instant coffee packets he had left in his car. You were getting into a forest green Lamborghini.

Taehyung’s car. It only made his anger worse because the one thing Namjoon truly knows about Taehyung without a shred of a doubt is that wherever he goes, Jimin goes. You used to express your annoyance over it back in college because you always felt left out. The bond they had with each other was one you could never understand, and to be fair Namjoon never understood where you were coming from. FOMO wasn’t a thing he ever suffered from because he didn’t allow himself to have a friendship similar to yours with Taehyung and Jimin.

Yet, now he thinks he can begin to understand why you were always in a bad mood when they went on best friend dates without you. He thinks he’s suffering from the same thing because a part of him craves for your attention. He wants you to be laughing at something he says instead of whatever you were laughing about while getting into Taehyung’s car. He’s never seen you laugh that way, so genuine and full of spirit that his stomach begins to twist again when he remembers what he witnessed almost an hour ago. So much so that he’s been reading the same fucking paragraph for thirty minutes.

Namjoon’s thoughts are stuck on the plant, the laugh and the kiss he stole from you Saturday night. He knows he shouldn’t have kissed you at the same time. The part of him he never lets shine doesn’t regret it. That part only regrets the way it happened.

That part regrets ever letting you walk away in the first place.

“So, how does it feel being all boo’d up?” Taehyung questions, cocking an eyebrow. His way of teasing you makes you roll your eyes.

It took him exactly twenty minutes since he picked you up to ask. You should’ve known lunch with Taehyung was going to turn out to be as destructive as it was currently going.

Not only did he drive through the streets like he was in a game of Grand Theft Auto. He’s been doing what he knows how to do best. Stick his perfect nose in everybody’s business.

He scoffs when instead of answering his prying question you take a bite out of your Banh Mi sandwich. “Come on, you have to give me something. It’s the least you can do for lying to me.” He pouts, crossing his arms in front of him.

You swallow. “First I didn’t lie, second, I’m not boo’d up, and third you’re annoying.”

“That’s not fair. I saw a movie where two people were fake dating and then they ended up together.” He retorts, jabbing a finger in your direction before taking a bite out of his burrito.

“That’s a movie.” You deadpan.

He shrugs, looking at you as if you’re the one being irrational. “So?”

“So, it’s never going to happen?” You say exasperated. Maybe agreeing to go on a lunch date with your hopeless romantic of a best friend truly was a bad idea. Hey may be a player and a very eligible bachelor, but he loves love more than anyone you have ever known.

His inability in finding ‘the one’ whatever that means to Taehyung is what feeds his struggling artist persona. It’s the main reason why he hasn’t settled down even if he wanted to. He’s afraid of losing his art, the thing that keeps him alive.

“You’re in denial. There’s history between you and Namjoon. Someone is bound to break first and by what Jimin told me. It will be him.” He says mapping out with his hands like it’s the most complicated concept in the world.

Your eyes almost fall out of their sockets from how wide they get. You should’ve known Jimin would tell Taehyung everything the minute he got the chance to. “That rat.” You seethe.

Taehyung laughs, reaching his hand across the table and patting your palm lightly. “There, there, it’s not your fault he told me. I was drunk on Saturday and I needed a ride home but I didn’t want to wait for a cab. After he told me he couldn’t. I basically accused him of sleeping with someone and he broke. But like what else was I supposed to think. Little man hasn’t been getting out there since he found out he was in love with you. So I wanted to congratulate him, you know.”

“If this is your way of making me feel better… it’s not.” You send him a glare which makes his smile get even bigger.

“Maybe I want you to just feel a little bit guilty because I told you so.” He smirks, playing with the friendship ring your wear on your thumb.

The three of you have one. Made it together the weekend of his party. It was the day he finally came to terms with the semantics of yours and Jimin’s confusing relationship. If he had known the events that would unfold that night, he would’ve never pushed Jimin to confess his true feelings for you in the first place.

Maybe the real reason why he had avoided you after the whole Facebook status update was because in part he felt guilty for his best friend’s broken heart.

You weren’t the only one he had avoided.

When you don’t retaliate with a snarky comment he squeezes your hand. You’re looking down at your unfinished food and he knows your appetite is gone. Despite learning time and time again to keep his mouth shut he never seems to get it quite right.

“Hey, I’m sorry. I know you and Min talked it out and I know why you’re going through with the whole fake engagement, but please be careful.” He expresses turning the ring over in slow circles. “I know I don’t know Namjoon as well as you and Kook do but I know he’s not the easiest person to be around. He seems to be as emotionally constituted as a roach. And I don’t want my other best friend to be broken-hearted too.” He ends, retrieving his hand, setting it on his lap.

You grin, nodding your head. “Do roaches even have emotions?” You tilt your head to the side.

His famous boxy smile sneaks its way onto his face. “I don’t know, that’s why I said it.”

You giggle, raising your hands in defeat. “Noted.” You pick up your sandwich and take a bite out of it.

“Now enough about your sexy philosophy professor fake fiancé. How was your first day of school sweetheart, make any new friends?”

You roll your eyes, smiling brightly. Finally a subject you’ve been dying to talk about.

“You’re so fucking annoying.”

There was an upside to staying at work past hours. At least that’s what Namjoon kept telling himself when he was finally able to breeze through all his grading. Time went by as the stack of papers lessened, but the hammering in his heart only increased. His mind wouldn’t stop and it didn’t help that he was on his third americano. Sure he could’ve let out some steam at the gym, but his body ached and Jin had basically banned him for a week.

“You can’t always avoid your problems Joonie.” Jin had said out of breath, hands on his knees while he looked at him through sweaty bangs.

Namjoon hated that the self-proclaimed chef slash boxer was right. Yet, there he was pacing around his office. There weren’t any more papers to grade. It was past eight, and Namjoon could only hope that by the time he got home you would be locked away in your room.

That way he could continue to avoid his problems. Or avoid the problem he had created.

The only issue was that Namjoon wasn’t born lucky, just privileged. When he got home you were in the living room following along with an at home Pilates workout video. The aircon was off so you were dripping with sweat. Namjoon had to physically swallow the lump that had formed in his throat three times. But you were too distracted to notice so he assumed he could pass through his living room and into his office unscathed.

Wrong.

Namjoon bumped into the corner of his couch. Then stubbed his toe against the corner table, which caused the small vase containing a single yellow tulip to come crashing down on his hard wooden floor. The broken glass pieces scattered everywhere, cutting off your concentration and instantly finding his alarmed gaze.

Not only was Namjoon born unlucky. He was also born an absolute klutz. And not the cute quirky ones the jocks in every teen movie fell for. The kind that destroyed everything in its path.

Exhibit A: the vase.

Exhibit B: your trust.

“You’re back.” You say, sitting crossed legged on your baby blue yoga mat. The video was long forgotten playing in the background, while you tilted your head waiting for his answer.

“Yeah sorry for bothering you.” He said, leaning down, starting to slowly gather the pieces of broken glass. He tried to keep himself busy to avoid your presence but then he spotted the single droplet of sweat drawing a path down your neck, the middle of your chest and eventually disappearing behind your baby blue workout tank.

He swallows thickly.

For the second time that day he mentally cursed out Jin for banning him from going to the gym. Namjoon could physically feel his body shake and start to overheat. He needed to let out some steam and sort out all these confusing thoughts he’s been having since seeing you in the morning.

Namjoon always thought you were pretty. Like the innocent girl next door type of pretty. He never saw you as anything more or harbored any sort of sexual attraction towards you. The thought absolutely repulsed him back then because you were like his little sister. He could easily fall asleep next to you and wake up fine. He could talk to you about anything and everything and be your friend because there was nothing there.

In simple terms you weren’t his type and that was okay. So, Namjoon can’t really understand everything that’s happening. He can’t understand where the kiss, the jealousy, the lust, and the anger is stemming from. You are the same Plain Jane he tutored back then. The only slight difference is that you’re a little more confident and your hair is shorter. Your sense of style has matured a little but it doesn’t lack the fun and casual you sometimes opted for. It’s what makes you look younger than what you really were. You had this young aura surrounding you and Namjoon had never been attracted to that.

He just thinks he needs to get laid, and fast. Maybe he’ll text that pretty brunette chemistry professor. What was her name again? Rochelle, Rachel, Ray? Whatever it was he wasn’t planning on doing much talking. She’s kind and his type, familiar and most importantly she’s out of the loop. Keeps her head in the books and cares a rats ass about faculty gossip. He tries to reason with himself as he finishes picking up the glass pieces. To add on he tries to tell himself that you have Jimin so why couldn’t he also have a friend to run to?

“Don’t worry, I was almost done.” You interrupt his thoughts. He watches as you grab the remote from his couch and pause the video. He swallows a fifth time watching as you stand up, bend down, and roll up your yoga mat to then rest it against the foot of his gray couch. He begins to panic when you move to his black marble coffee table that you’ve pushed to the side.

Quickly, almost as if his body was on autopilot he placed the glass shards he’s picked up onto the corner table and scurries to where you were ready to push the table to its rightful place. He too finds himself bending down, and somehow his eyes land right where the top of your breasts are peaking out. He can’t see much, you’re still modestly covered, but the little that he does see. He finds himself staring at before looking away as if he were being burned by the rays of the sun. He swallows two more times.

God, he’s really to send Raya—that’s her name—a text the minute he locks himself in his bedroom.

“It’s not that heavy Namjoon.” You point out as you lift up your side of the table. Namjoon follows in suit and the two of you move it the five inches to the middle so it’s back in its designated spot. “Thank you anyway.” You stand up dusting your hands, giving him an appreciative smile. It somehow worsens the sweat that has formed in between the crevices of his long fingers. As well as the beating in his heart.

He needs to get a fucking grip. Namjoon doesn’t want to admit that he wanted to help you because you’re right the coffee table is not as heavy as it looks. Otherwise how would you have moved it in the first place?

You walk past him, patting his shoulder along the way. He watches you make your way to the kitchen and he has to restrain himself from letting his eyes travel any lower than your upper back. He’s annoyed that he’s acting like a hormonal teenager rather than a full grown adult who has had plenty of sex in his lifetime.

“At what time do you get out of work tomorrow?” You ask moving through his kitchen like it’s familiar. As if you were doing this for months rather than just a day. He hates how satisfying it feels, and he finds himself sitting on one of his kitchen barstools.

You look through his cupboards with vigor, somehow knowing exactly where he keeps his plates, cups, and his pans. Well…your pans. He watches while you turn on the gas stove and wait a while for things to heat up and open up a tupperware full of leftover fried rice. He guesses it’s what you had made for dinner earlier in the night.

Namjoon feels his stomach twist. He is unsure if it’s a good thing but he realizes that he is getting nervous again because it’s finally settled in that tonight would be the first night you will actually be sharing a house. That tomorrow morning when he wakes up he will find you enjoying a cup of tea or coffee in his kitchen. That he will have to share a bathroom with you. And drive you to work and home. Repeat. Until it becomes too much of familiarity and one of you cuts the other off again.

Then he comes across his second? Third? Fourth? realization of the night and ignores your previously asked question. “How did you get home?

“Jungkook I called him knowing he was free today which worked out perfectly because your mother gave him some kimchi to give to us. So, I made kimchi fried rice for dinner with all of the leftovers in your fridge.” You nonchalantly shrug your shoulders, before plating his meal. “Which brings me back to my last question. What time do you get off tomorrow?” You move around the kitchen as Namjoon lets out the breath he didn’t know he was holding, and the green jealousy bubbling in the pit of his stomach disappears.

At least it wasn’t Jimin. He finds himself thinking. He shakes his head along with the thought away.

“Five tomorrow.” He finally answers when you set the plate out in front of him, along with a glass of water. “Why?”

“We need to go grocery shopping. Your fridge is practically empty, I used up all the ingredients that were going to go bad in the next few days.” You say sitting at the barstool in front of him and resting your chin on the palm of your hand. “Do you ever eat at home?”

Namjoon shakes his head, busying himself with his utensils before he takes a bite out of his food. A little part of him was hesitant because he knew you weren’t the best cook. Or worse you could poison him out of hatred. But he’s pleasantly surprised when the flavors instantly hit his tongue. It was delicious. Probably the best kimchi fried rice he’s ever had in his life. It almost seems impossible because this isn’t remotely a difficult dish to make. Yet, you’ve exceeded his expectations. He’s so enthralled with each bite that he forgets you’re still sitting in front of him.

“Do you like it?” You bite your lip in anticipation. When Namjoon looks up he fights the urge to reach over and tap your chin to get you to release your bottom lip. But he keeps himself grounded because he’s already crossed to many boundaries, and he doesn’t want you running back to Jimin.

Speaking of a boundary he shouldn’t cross but he still does, “Where did you spend the weekend?”

You push yourself back from the counter and release a sigh. “Jimins.” You look anywhere but him and it somehow annoys him.

“Your fuck buddy.” He stares blankly, setting down his fork. He could still eat more but you look mortified beyond belief and it makes his stomach churn.

Namjoon seems to just never learn.

You inhale deeply before responding, “I guess we should talk about that then.”

“No thanks I don’t care about who you’re fucking. It’s not like we’re exclusive, or steady or whatever we are.” He shrugs, proceeding to pick at his food with his fork. He really needs to shut up before he says something he knows he’ll regret later.

You roll your eyes, taking his glass of water and downing it in one go. He watches as a single droplet runs past your lips, down the side of your chin, and eventually your neck. He would’ve shamelessly continued to follow its path if you hadn’t slammed the cup onto the cloth coaster. It startles him and you look livid.

“I’m not fucking Jimin at least not anymore. We finally talked it out like civil adults and agreed we were better off as friends.” You spit out crossing your arms in front of you. “I know this is all fake, but the only way we will be able to keep up this act is if we both agree to not see anyone else. Otherwise that would create an even bigger mess than the one we have already.” You finish, and Nmajoon’s appetite is officially gone for the night.

Now, he feels guilty for even entertaining the idea of texting Raya. Only a little bit. There was some logic to what you were saying and he was being irrational earlier.

“I guess you’re right. I’m sorry for assuming.”

You have to blink a few times trying to process everything. This was rare. Namjoon was never known to be someone who apologizes unless he truly feels sorry. You almost leave the conversation at that, afraid that he will take it back the second you say someone he doesn’t want to hear again, but he speaks up, “How do you propose we from here then. I mean we are both humans with needs and if we can’t, you know…release those needs with each other because I don’t see you like…in that way and I’m assuming you don’t either, and it’s not part of the deal.” He breathes out before continuing. “What should we do then?” He finishes with a sigh, picking up his fork again, and waits for you to answer.

You’re caught off guard, the argument that was sitting at the back of your throat dies down. You didn’t expect him to admit defeat so early on. When the two of you were friends, the petty arguments you got into lasted for hours; but here he was showing you a different side of him, and you aren’t sure what to think of it yet.

“We will cross that line when we get there. For now I think we need to start small and just move on from our past. Maybe go on small friendship dates. Like the ones we used to go on every time I passed my tests.” You shrug. It was the only option that made sense. “It’s why I asked you when you get off work tomorrow. We can maybe go grocery shopping together. Start there.” You point out, watching as Namjoon goes back to eating your food.

It’s a weird feeling but watching him eat makes your heart feel a little warm. Back when you started living alone, you were an absolute mess in the kitchen. You burned your chicken to make sure it was thoroughly cooked for crying out loud. And after you set off the fire alarm one too many times, Jungkook decided to teach you all the easy ten minute recipes he learned on YouTube. This was one of the dishes you were the most confident in making. It also happened to be one of Namjoon’s favorites, and maybe that’s why you had made it. To soften the blow a little because you knew you were asking too much of him.

To you it seems like it had worked because he wasn’t nearly as angry as you assumed he would be. In fact he wasn’t angry at all.

Namjoon swallows his last spoonful and looked back at you. His face was blank but his next words completely went against the coldness hiding behind his eyes. “I’ll be in front of your office at five. I need to finish imputing a couple of grades into the system. And then we could head to the market together.” He nods firmly before standing up and picking up his plate, taking long strides to the dishwasher.

You watch him in silence while he put on the hot pink rubber gloves and grabbed the sponge, pumping a decent amount of soap on it. It was all so domestic and oddly comforting.

He was about to turn the hot water on when he stopped, placing his palms against the counter. He quickly turns to face you, his eyes find yours instantly and for the first time in a long time he did something he hasn’t done in years.

He smiles.

“Thank you for dinner. It was delicious.”

Your heart almost stops but you pushed away the butterflies erupting in the pit of your stomach. They weren’t real, they didn’t mean anything, Namjoon just has a smile that can light up worlds. So you ignored it and quickly responded “you’re welcome.” Before making your way to your room, so he couldn’t see your blushing cheeks. Or realize that he had made your heart start beating ten times faster than its usual rate. The closer you got to your room the faster you started to walk and before you knew it you had made it inside and closed the door behind you, resting your back against it and quietly releasing the little school girl squeal you were holding in.

God, you were pathetic.

Back in the kitchen, Namjoon is trying to occupy himself with the dishes. He can’t stop himself from giving into another realization. It seems like tonight he was full of them, but this one scared him the most.

Maybe he was at a crossroads and he had already unknowingly crossed the line because he was feeling something deep in his heart. Something he didn’t know he could possibly feel. Though that’s not what had initially scared him. He was scared of his fear and how it consumes him to the point that he talks himself out of situations. Just like it did all those years ago when you had confessed to him.

It’s something his pride and ego won’t ever let him admit.

Yet, deep down Namjoon knew better. The line had been crossed the minute he had entered Taehyung’s apartment. The minute he told you all about his plan. The minute he had placed his mothers engagement ring in the palm of your hand underneath his parents patio table.

The line had been crossed when he proposed to you. When he had asked you to move in with him and when he kissed you.

How does he come back from that?

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smolwritingchick · 1 year ago

Text

The Bangtan Gal Chapter 53- I Think I Love Her

Chapter Summary: The members notice the tension between Jennie and Jungkook. Jennie shuts down dating rumors from AllKpop. Jungkook vents to Jimin about his feelings for Jennie

Words: 4,000+

Author's Note: FYI, Jungkook will confess to Jennie (OC) when it's January 2016 in the story, hope it's worth the wait. :)

-------- Jennie had kept her responses to Jimin and Tae's questions to a minimum, telling them that she just wasn't up for eating any smarties, once she came out of the shower. But the 95 Liners knew something was up and didn't pressure her. When Jimin left, Taehyung turned off the lights so he and Jennie could sleep.

In the middle of the night, he heard her sniffing in bed. He was fully aware that something was wrong and it pained him to see her so upset. Pushing the covers off him, he decided to join her bed instead, laying down behind her.

"Ennie...please stop crying." His warm body wrapped his arms around her waist from behind.

After a while, her sniffing stopped. Turning around, she rested her head against his chest and started to fall asleep again.

The next morning, Jennie posted a short video on Twitter just before the members headed out to the concert venue. "Hey, hey!" She smiled and waved at the camera. "Chicago, get ready! The concert is tonight! Can't wait to see you!"

Soon as she posted it, some ARMY noticed that the way she was talking, was not as cheerful as it usually was, and began to ask questions.

'Jennie, do you have allergies?? Your eyes look a little pink.'

'Jennie!! You look so tired. Don't stay up too late!"

'Queen, get some rest!'

'Why does she sound so sad?'

'Don't make assumptions, she's probably just tired from all the traveling and touring'

'I don't know...but something seems wrong :/'

'Munchkin, are you okay?'

'Guys, she's probably just tired from the tour.'

Not too long later, Jungkook shared a selfie on Twitter, and ARMY began to notice that he didn't look too happy, either.

'You look sad!'

'Okay, both our Maknaes look upset, wtf happened?'

'Both of their eyes look a little puffy. Did something happen between them?'

'Oh no, please don't tell me the 97 Liners got into a fight'

'That's impossible, JenKook are inseparable!'

'But JenKook never argue!'

'Maybe Jennie is still sad about the fan meet being canceled?'

'But she was happy that she saw the fans, it should be fine'

The car ride to the venue was different this time. The members felt the tension in the car. Everyone was talking but Jennie and Jungkook, which was rare because they always used to say at least something.

"Right, Jungkookie?" Jimin laughed at a joke Taehyung had said.

"Huh?" The Golden Maknae looked up from his phone. He looked somewhat lost and indifferent.

"Jungkook, are you all right?" Sejin asked.

Jungkook just nodded in response and went back to his phone. Taehyung and Jimin glanced at each other with worry.

What was wrong with him?

Diana had been watching Jennie, who had a resting bitch face, and she looked annoyed about something.

"You all right, boo?" Diana asked.

"Mm hm." Jennie responded vaguely and continued to scroll through her phone.

Something was definitely wrong.

"Hey, what's up with you two? You're quieter than usual." Namjoon watched the Maknaes.

"No reason." Jennie shrugged.

When they arrived at the venue, they did a quick rehearsal of the concert to clean up any choreography. When it came time for War of Hormone, Jennie and Jungkook remembered that they were going to be dancing together.

"Uh...can we not dance this time for War of Hormone?" Jungkook requested.

"I agree," Jennie added.

"What the hell...?" Jimin abruptly exclaimed in English, looking around in confusion.

Did they just request to not dance together for War of Hormone?

"Hey." Hobi approached Yoongi after watching Jenkook talk to Mr. Son. "Something is going on between those two. When I went to get your headphones, something was off. I know you said you didn't want to go get them yourself, but what actually happened before you left?"

Yoongi let out a sigh. "These kids...I thought they would've resolved it..."

Once the concert came along, it was clear that something was off between Jenkook due to the way they acted whenever they were near each other. Despite trying their best to stay professional and not let any behind the scenes drama come on stage, ARMY were watching closely and tweeted about it, hoping that they will make up soon.

'JenKook haven't even glanced at each other at all! Not one look!'

'It's so weird not seeing them together.'

'It's weird not seeing any interaction. I'm sad.'

'They're my biggest ship. I'm freaking tf out!'

'I'm sad they didn't dance for war of hormone, it's my favorite moment of the song!'

At the hotel, Jimin and Taehyung decided to plan for JenKook to talk to each other and talk it out. Jungkook was gaming with Jimin in the room they shared. Taehyung told Jennie that they would be visiting Jimin because he wanted to talk to her about something. But as soon as Tae and Jennie walked in, she noticed Jungkook in the room.

"What is he doing here?"

"What is she doing here?"

The 95 Liners heard the 97 Liners complain.

"Because I am so sick of this! What is going on!?" Jimin yelled, placing the controller down and standing up. "I want you to stop fighting! Yoongi told me what happened! I am very disappointed in the both of you! You two make each other happy, so stop fighting!"

"Tell that to petty bunny boy over there..." Jennie grumbled.

Jungkook shot her a look of annoyance. "Don't start."

"You started it." She shrugged.

"You did first, you ditched me."

"I forgot! I didn't ditch! You ditched me! You purposely didn't show up, you bunny ass!"

Jimin let out a yelp at the name calling as he freaked out, watching them argue.

"Can I punch him?" Jennie asked with irritation.

"No!" Jimin exclaimed.

"You can't punch me," Jungkook remarked.

"And why not?" Jennie raised a brow.

"Because I'm the golden maknae." He teased, grinning cockily.

"Listen you little shit!" she grabbed a pillow from the bed and threw it at him.

Jungkook ducked with ease but was attacked when she ran up and began to hit him with another pillow. He managed to grab a pillow by a seat to hit her back, as they commenced an aggressive pillow fight.

Taehyung started laughing out loud, while Jimin watched in horror and started yelling, trying to break them up. Taehyung began to cheer Jennie on, watching with amusement.

"Tae! Help me! Stop watching and help me!" Jimin yelled.

The sound of Jimin panicking caused Jennie and Jungkook to share a laugh, ceasing their pillow fight, and dropping their pillows. JenKook glanced at each other and started thinking about how much they missed laughing and having fun together.

Their thoughts were interrupted when they heard Jimin whine because they were fighting, "Ahhhh!! This was not part of the plan!"

"What plan?" JenKook questioned in confusion, causing Jimin's stomach to drop and Taehyung to give him a look of alarm.

"For you to be the best of friends!" he smoothly covered his tracks. "How long have you two been friends? You two have special places in each other's hearts. You two just need to talk it out. Speak like adults. What do you say?"

Jennie and Jungkook glanced at each other. After a moment, they came up with an answer.

"No." They both responded while Jennie left with Taehyung following her.

Jimin sighed loudly. "Why are you two a bunch of stubborn teenagers?"

Later that night, Jennie, in a calmer mood, stayed in her room with Taehyung, watching one of her shows on her laptop. She noticed that Tae kept staring at her sadly which caused her to sigh and take off her headphones.

"What is it?" She asked as he gave her another puppy dog look. "What? Stop that. T-Tae!"

"Please talk to Jungkook."

"I don't want to. He probably doesn't even want to talk to me anyway."

"Ennie, he always wants to talk to you. Look, I know it's annoying but friends fight. And we say things that we don't mean. Remember that bad fight I got into with Jimin? And you know how close we are. Took a few days to apologize and now we're fine. And remember that time you argued with Yoongi? You two wanted nothing to do with each other but then you two made up a few days later? And one day, you and I are going to disagree. But we still love each other and are a family." He grabbed her hand and squeezed it. "Don't you miss his bunny smiles and laughs? You two gaming together? Him hugging you? Holding you? Singing to you?"

Jennie had to admit that she missed all of that and more. "Lowkey...yeah."

"How are you feeling with this?"

"I just wish I handled the situation better. I'm upset with myself for how I acted. I remember seeing the hurt on his face from those things I said. I never want to see that again..." She frowned. "Seeing him hurt, hurt a lot more than those other things he said when he was mad at me. It kind of breaks my heart to see him so sad. I'm just feeling a little stubborn. Like it's his fault. Like he's the wrong one, but it's not just his fault. It's mine too. I just want some space, right now. I'll talk to him...eventually. Right now, let me chill and have time to think. I don't want to talk to him while I'm still in my feelings. Give it another day or two and I should talk to him. Maybe then we can discuss it like adults."

Meanwhile, with Jimin, he stayed with Jungkook, watching him play video games. He patiently waited for him to speak up about Jennie and kept staring at him until he got annoyed.

"What?" Jungkook snapped.

"I think it's time to realize what's going on here," Jimin brought up.

"What are you talking about?"

"You like her. Plain and simple, Jungkookie."

"I don't like her..." He grumbled.

"Yes, you do."

"No, I don't." He raised his voice.

"Yes, you do," Jimin responded sternly.

"No, I don't."

Jimin let out a sigh, watching the Golden Maknae get angrier. "Jungkookie, stop lying. I see it on your face. So just admit it. Don't just give up like this. I have seen the way you look at her...you've never looked at anyone like that before...there must be a reason why you stare at her so passionately. There must be a reason your smile gets bigger when you're happy with her. There must be a reason I see all this jealousy on your face when she is much closer than usual with Kevin, Bam Bam, or any other guy. That's not a coincidence. You make it so painfully obvious, I'm surprised she doesn't know."

"Enough, Jimin!" Jungkook shouted with frustration. "I'm not lying, so stop telling me how I feel! I don't like her, okay!? So back off!"

Jimin shrugged in defeat and stood up. "Fine. I'm not even going to pressure you into it. I'll wait until you realize your feelings. Hopefully, it won't be too late by the time you realize."

While walking to the door, Jimin heard the last bit of what Jungkook had murmured, "...her..."

Turning around, Jimin raised a brow. "What?"

"I said...I think I love her." Jungkook admitted in a soft voice.

A smile came across Jimin's face as he walked back to the bed. "Why do you think you love her?"

Jungkook sat on the edge of the bed with him. Their feet were on the carpet, while Jungkook leaned forward, resting his elbows on his thighs.

The Golden Maknae shook his head, letting his cards out on the table.

No turning back now.

There was no avoiding this.

"It's stupid, right? Insane? A crazy thought since we've been friends for years, now? I shouldn't be...I really shouldn't be falling for my best friend. I thought this was just some silly crush and I'd get over it after a few weeks but no...my feelings for her have only gotten stronger."

"It's risky, I know." The Maknae went on. "What if she doesn't feel the same? Will it be awkward? Will our friendship change? We're in a group together. How will it work? What would happen if we date? How will ARMY react? What would happen if the media found out two members of a group were dating? I've thought about it all. I've thought about everything. But she's...she's worth it. And I won't let anyone or anything discourage me if she becomes mine."

Jimin was pleased with Jungkook finally admitting his feelings as he watched him sit up straight.

Jungkook turned his head to him. "I want her. I want her to be mine. I never wanted someone so badly until she came along."

Hearing that, made Jimin smile wider. It was music to his ears to hear him say how much he wanted Jennie. He was not expecting Jungkook to tell him anything, so this was a treat.

And long overdue.

Jimin observed the Golden Maknae. He was turning 18 soon and so was Jennie. Jungkook matured and grew to become a man. Girls were always swooning over him. Jungkook could probably get any girl he wanted, but he only wanted one girl.

Jennie.

Hearing him wanting to call Jennie his, made Jimin think of how manly Jungkook was becoming as he watched him think about her. It brought joy to his heart to see the Golden Maknae admit that he's fallen in love. And Jimin fully supported the fact that Jungkook wanted to date her.

"When did you start liking her?" Jimin asked.

"I started liking her when we started going to SOPA together. It was just a silly crush. It wasn't supposed to go that far. I wasn't supposed to fall in love with her. Falling in love with her just...it just happened. I couldn't control it. I tried to get over her, so we could just remain friends but it was harder than I expected. It's so damn frustrating because sometimes she's all I think about. I feel so comfortable around her, too. She always encourages me and motivates me to do better. She never judges me or anyone else. She's simply one of a kind in my eyes."

Jimin nodded, gesturing him to keep going.

"I know it's cheesy but the smallest things she does...like the way her nose would twitch cutely, it gives me the urge to kiss it. The way she eats, her cheeks would get bigger, resembling a cute hamster. And her smile is one of the cutest things I've ever seen." He let out a low chuckle at the thought of it. "She always looks out for us and dedicates her time to BTS. She gets prettier every day. And I can't stop thinking about kissing her. It's getting harder to restrain myself, Jimin."

'I can tell.' Jimin thought to himself.

"But...all those things I said when we argued...I...I really hurt her." Jungkook murmured sadly. "I don't deserve her. What kind of man am I to say those things to her? I...I didn't mean any of it. I just wanted to win the argument. And I just...I get so jealous when she's closer than usual to other guys because I think she's going to date them. I feel like I'm never going to build up the courage to ask her out, one day. She even gave back the friendship ring I gave her. I'm a pretty shitty friend, huh? So how could I be her boyfriend? I promised to cherish her and I ended up lashing out at her. Telling her that I wished she acted like our friends in GFriend instead. She probably doesn't even want anything to do with me."

"And now here I am, in love with my best friend. Jimin, I'm scared to tell her because we've been friends for so long and I don't want to ruin anything. And I'm just not sure if she would ever want to date me. Has she even thought of me like that? As a potential boyfriend like I always have?" He wondered.

"Sometimes it's worth to take that risk, Jungkookie," Jimin responded.

"I know." He stood up. "If...if I was man enough to ask her...to ask her to be mine and if she would say yes to me, I'd be the best boyfriend she'd ever had. She'd always be happy. I'll make sure of it. I'm not good at expressing my feelings but my actions, they can do the talking."

Jungkook realized that he just told Jimin his feelings for Jennie and looked at him with dread.

"Jimin, please don't tell the hyungs."

Jimin let out a laugh at the sight of him panicking. "Relax. Look, Taehyung and I already know you love her. We've been watching you two for a while. It's pretty frustrating that you haven't made a real move on her yet. But don't worry. Things are going to be just fine, Jungkookie. Look, right now, we're busy with the tour. For now, just relax and act normal around her. You two will be together soon."

"Like that'll ever happen..." Jungkook shook his head.

"Good things happen to those who wait. Let me handle this. For now, continue to work on a way to apologize to her."

"A simple sorry isn't going to work, Jimin."

"It's best to think from the heart. I know you'll figure out something. When you do, let me know and I'll help if I can." Jimin said, making Jungkook feel hopeful for the future.

For now, with things hectic with the Red Bullet Tour, Jimin thought it would be best to begin his mission near the end of the year. He thought about an early New Year's Resolution. Get JenKook together. Now he needed to think of what to do for Phase 1. He was going to have a good talk with Taehyung about this.

His ship will be sailing very soon.

-----

When BTS arrived in LA, Jennie met up with Angelina, going out for a Dunkin' Donuts run.

Walking out of the store with a big bag of donuts and two cups of coffee, they noticed the long drive thru line of cars.

"You gotta be kidding." Angelina laughed.

"I need to get this on film." Jennie took out her phone and started recording.

"All them damn cars! I'm glad we went inside. Okay, look how friggin' long the drive thru line is at Dunkin Donuts. We got a problem, people. We got our donuts in ten seconds by going inside. It takes them ten minutes to get their stuff. This is why I go inside."

"Go inside people! Save time!" Angelina shouted in the video. "And I highly recommend getting donuts in the morning when they're nice and fresh. You'll taste the difference and thank me later!"

Once Jennie posted the video on her Instagram, tagging Angelina with the caption, 'Just go inside!!!', ARMY started commenting about Jungkook on her page.

'Are you and Jungkook OK?'

'Did you and Jungkook have a fight? You two didn't even dance together for War of Hormone, I was anticipating that all night during the Chicago concert.'

'Munchkin, are you okay???'

'Is it true you're dating Kevin? How long have you been dating?'

'Please tell me you're on good terms with Jungkook. 97 Liners, I need you two to be OK!'

'Whatever is going on between you and Jungkook, I hope it's resolved soon.'

'Lol wonder how Bam Bam will react to her and Kevin dating'

'I thought you and Jimin were dating! My ship is ruined!'

'She's dating Kevin, guys!'

'Lol, they're "onto" us.' Kevin commented on her page with sarcasm.

This was starting to get ridiculous at how people assume people are dating just because they're hanging out with each other. There is a thing called friendship but clearly, that does not exist because everywhere you turn around, there's another dating rumor.

Once Jennie got into the car with Angelina, they went on the road.

'Lmaoooo I knew this nonsense would happen.' Jennie commented back to Kevin and went to the ALLKPOP article about the false speculation.

Guess a guy and girl can't be friends these days without anyone wildin out over them allegedly dating.

BTS' Jennie rumored to be dating

Miss Bangtan might be off the market.

There are speculations going around stating that BTS' Jennie is dating fellow BTS American Hustle Life friend, Kevin. The rumors were first started by fans who watched their close interaction at JFK Airport when they shared an intimate hug that was captured by fans eagerly waiting for BTS' arrival.

The two were spotted in Chicago, at a local skate park and were seen by fans who took photos with them. Kevin was also seen attending one of BTS' concerts to support Jennie. More speculations arose when fans noticed their eye contact and longer than usual hand holding at the hi touch after the concert. Big Hit Entertainment is yet to respond to the speculations.

"Unbelievable..." Jennie complained.

"What happened?" Angelina asked. Once Jennie read the article out loud, she began laughing. "That's nuts!"

Jennie retweets AllKpop's article with a simple, 'WRONG. #EnoughAlready #LetAChickBreathe #MindYourBusiness #Jen' which killed the rumor instantly...for now.

ARMY immediately began to comment things like, 'DRAG EM!' as they read her shutting down the rumor. She soon trended on Twitter from the tweet as well.

Arriving at a local dance studio, Jennie and Angelina caught up while dancing to pass the time. Jennie let her in on the various concert stories and the prank war that had been going on between the members. Angelina told her about how great her fans have been with supporting her album and was looking forward to releasing the second one in due time.

"Hey, you seem a little tense. Everything all right?" Angelina pointed out.

"Not really." Miss Bangtan shrugged. "Uh, Jungkook and I...had a fight."

"Damn, really? You and Kook? Seriously? That's...wow. What happened?"

Once she told her what happened, Jennie went on, "And then this one maid, super nice, she approached me, asked what was wrong. She started talking about how she's dealt with arguments like that with her husband. And she also thought Jungkook was my boyfriend."

"Oh really?" Angelina raised a brow, beginning to grin.

"Stop. It's not that." She tried to explain.

"Do you think Jungkook is hot?" Angelina asked out of the blue.

"What?" Jennie asked, widening her eyes.

That came out of nowhere.

"You know...do you think Jungkook is hot? I mean, you have to admit, he's getting more handsome these days. Puberty hit him like a truck. I've been seeing all these tweets about him and girls are swooning over this guy. I can't blame them, he's attractive. Whoever will be his girlfriend in the future will be pretty damn lucky to have him as a boyfriend. Because one, he's cute. Two, he's very sweet and respectful and three, although he seems shy, I think he'll be a very passionate guy. Don't you think?"

"Oh my gosh." Jennie covered her face while Angelina laughed. "Why are you bringing this up? Are you implying something?"

"Maybe. You ever thought about it? Dating him? You two kissed once. Ever thought about kissing him again since he's a man, now? Don't you think he's manly?"

"I mean..." Jen trailed off, looking at the floor.

Angelina was starting to give her weird thoughts, now.

"How would you feel if he started dating someone? Would you get a little jealous? He'll focus more of his time with his girlfriend, not you, y'know."

"If he's happy, I'm happy." She shrugged.

Angelina playfully smacked her on the arm. "Bitch, stop lyin', you know you gonna drag a hoe if she steals your man away. I know you."

"He's not my man, Ang."

"Well, you're protective of the guy. Don't you think he's cute?"

"Yes, Ang, I do. I always have."

"Do you think he's sweet?"

"Always. Where is this coming from?"

"I'm just a little curious." The rapper shrugged. "I watch the Bangtan bombs and all. You two have a cute little thing going on. I mean, you do with all the members but with him, it's the cutest to me."

Jennie began to ponder.

Yeah, she thought he was handsome. Who wouldn't? But the thought of dating him? Her best friend?

"I haven't actually thought of dating him until you brought it up. But I mean, we're best friends. Wouldn't that ruin a friendship?" She reflected.

"What if it doesn't?"

"I care about him a lot. I dunno, he makes me feel things I never felt before. It's weird."

"Good or bad way?"

"I'm not quite sure, yet."

------

In the afternoon, back at the hotel, Jennie had her headphones in, messing around with a small DJ launchpad she brought to practice and play around with. She was currently listening to, Girl by The Internet as she playfully practiced tapping the beats on the launchpad to the song.

A couple of knocks on her door made her stop her jam session and open it to see no one at the door.

"Ding dong ditch?" She pondered and looked down to see a tiny Hello Kitty Plushie.

Curious, since this is her favorite character, she picked it up and went back into the room.

She found a small note connected to its back and took it off, opening it.

'I screwed up, didn't I?'

She knew exactly who this was from.

What did he want?

And what was this?

She continued to read and saw two words, scattered in letters and it looked like she would have to figure out what the two words were.

'blbueb aet'

She worked on trying to decipher the first word

Blue

Bleu

Bubbe

Bubble.

"Bubble? Bubble what?" She checked out the second word.

Eat

Ate

"Tea." She confirmed. "Bubble tea?"

Did he want to get bubble tea?

"He really wants me to go get bubble tea with him?" She sighed and shrugged. "All right then."

Quickly getting ready, she walked to the closest bubble tea spot and walked in. As soon as she looked at the menu, a bright smile came across her face. It's been a while since she had some bubble tea.

Before she could place her order, the female cashier placed the bubble tea flavor she was going to get, on the counter.

Bubble milk green tea.

"Excuse me, are you Jennie?" The cashier asked with a smile.

It didn't look like she was a fan of BTS with the way she acted, so Jen took a different approach on how to answer.

"Yeah...how did you know I was going to order this?" she glanced at the bubble tea in surprise.

"Oh, some hot guy paid and told me to give this to you. You fit the description he told me."

'Jeon Jungkook...what are you planning?' She thought to herself. "Uh, what did he say?"

"He said something about a beautiful girl with pretty black skin and a sweet smile and that she wears Nikes and has pretty curly hair."

Jennie looked down at her shoes, and she was definitely wearing her Nikes today as she felt her heart flutter. If this was part of his idea to apologize, he was doing a good job and it made her miss him more.

'I can't believe this guy.' She thought.

"He was so friggin hot, like oh my gosh. Is he your boyfriend or something?" The cashier, who looked around 17, asked, taking Jennie out of her thoughts.

"U-uh, no, we're friends."

"No way, are you serious?"

"Yeah."

"Is he single?"

"As far as I know."

"I think you need to get on that, in my opinion." The girl suggested. "He's a keeper."

The statement made Jennie start to grin in embarrassment and let out a nervous laugh.

"Wow, he wasn't kidding. You really have a nice smile. How'd you get your teeth so straight?"

"My mom is an orthodontist," Jennie answered. "She was so strict about making sure my family had nice, healthy teeth. It was annoying to hear her bickering about it but it was worth it in the end."

"Nice. Well, here you go. Oh, and he also told me to tell you that two of your friends are sitting at that table." She pointed to Taehyung and Hobi who were in a conversation.

"Thank you." Jennie put a 5 dollar bill in the tip jar and went to sit in the middle of the two. "All right, what the heck is going on?"

"Nice to see you too, munchkin." Hobi giggled as he watched her stick her straw in the middle of the cup, happily sipping on the tea and chewing on the bubbles.

"Where is Jungkook?"

"Gotta find out." Taehyung handed her a note.

"You mean to tell me this bunny has me going on a scavenger hunt?" She raised a brow.

"It'll be worth it in the end!" Hobi beamed.

"He's just as devastated, Ennie. And he worked really hard on this, so I hope you give him a little bit of your time to apologize in his own special way." Tae added as she opened up the first note.

A simple "I'm sorry." isn't going to be enough to fix it. I know. So, I decided that I want to write some reasons why I cherish you with each note you receive. I'm not good at this. I'm not good with words. This may even be a little cheesy but stay with me until the end.

Reasons why I cherish you:

You were patient with me as I gradually opened up to you when we first met. (It's kind of hard opening up to new people but with you...you're very easy to talk to.)

You are always listening... (just know I'm always here to listen to you, too!)

I trust you with everything (I want you to know that you can trust me, too)

Jennie's eyes softened at the note. Despite him saying he's not good with words, the simplicity of his with this note made her begin to smile brightly.

Taehyung and Hobi observed the developing smile on her face and glanced at each other, satisfied with her reaction.

This plan should go well.

"Awwwwww~! Our munchkin is smiling!" Hobi giggled with Tae.

Jennie had almost forgotten that she was sitting with them as her face began to warm up.

"Hush!" She let out a laugh and went back to reading the note. It looked like another set of words that needed to be organized.

'Bsaaltkbel uroct'

"Basketball Court." She confirmed.

"Here's the address." Hobi texted her the location.

"Is this where I'm meeting Jungkook?" She asked.

"Maybe~!" Taehyung teased.

"Where is this guy?" She exclaimed.

"Gotta find out. It'll be fun, don't worry. Oh, and before you leave, we have to take a photo. Smile!" Taehyung placed his phone up in the air to capture the three of them.

Taehyung with his boxy smile and Jennie trying to take a sip of Hobi's bubble tea as he playfully tried to push her away became the perfect goofy picture to post on Twitter.

Taehyung posted the picture with the caption, 'Have you tried Bubble Tea, ARMY?' so Jungkook could check for updates on how his plan was going.

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