Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

“Rock, paper, scissors SHOOT!”

“YESS!” A few heads turned towards the source of commotion.

The source being two highschool boys playing rock paper shoot in order to decide who was supposed to carry the bags for today.

“Come on Jungkook, I carried it yesterday as well!” Taehyung whined as Jungkook hopped around doing his signature victory dance.

“Not my problem that you're so lousy at the game.” Jungkook laughed as he held his bag out to the other.

“But Kookie look- I hurt my finger in the kitchen today.” Taehyung held out his bandaged finger and pulled on his best puppy eyes.

Jungkook gave him a look before dumping his bag on Taehyung's outstretched hand.

“Next time make sure to add a few red drops to make it more believable.” He said as he skipped ahead.

Taehyung cursed at the other's retreating back before ripping off his fake bandage and adjusting the muscle pig’s bag better in his shoulder.

“Can you walk a little faster?” Jungkook commented, “At this rate we'll reach school during recess.”

Taehyung glared at the other. “I don't know why we even play this game anymore- you're clearly the more muscular one here.” He huffed.

Jungkook seemed to preen even more at his words. “It's a tradition Taehyung.”

“Honestly why is your bag so fucking heavy? We share the same subjects!”

“I have my art supplies in there.”

“I have art too!”

Jungkook tched, “Taehyung I chose art because I actually love art, where you chose art because you love staring at Park Jimin.”

Taehyung rolled his eyes but didn't comment- Jungkook was correct after all.

Park Jimin was one year senior to them, the president of the dance club (along with Jung Hoseok) and Kim Taehyung's first love.

Jungkook believed Taehyung's attraction to be futile but Taehyung begged to differ.

“Besides, you don't even bring half of the art supplies hoping that Jimin would lend them to you and then end up borrowing them from me.” Jungkook continued his ramblings, “You're honestly so hopeless-”

He stopped midway as the school warning bell rang out, signalling that they had mere minutes before they were marked late.

"Shit!” They blurted out together.

As they hurry towards the school gate, a flash of pink catches Taehyung's eyes.

Taehyung (and time itself) slow down and sees Park Jimin bolting towards the school just like them but in his moment of haste, Jimin’s bottle jumps out of his bag and falls onto the hard concrete with a loud echoing 'clang'.

And it starts rolling towards…him.

It was almost poetic the way Taehyung picked up the bottle stopping it from rolling down further, Jimin coming towards him with a grateful look in his eyes as he thanked him, his flushed pink with sweat and exertion- their fingers brushing as he handed the bottle to his first love.

But in the end all good things come to an end.

This beautiful moment was shattered when Jungkook sensing his friend's absence looked back to see Taehyung rooted to a spot while jimin profusely thanked him. He checked his watch and saw they had merely half a minute left.

Without bothering to announce his presence, he grabbed hold of Taehyung's collar, successfully breaking the lovesick fool out of his reverie and practically threw themselves through the school gate just in time for the final bell to ring.

Taehyung stared around with wide eyes, his mind buzzing with the sudden turn of events. His eyes fell onto his initial source of distraction and found Jimin passing him a sheepish smile as coach Kang scolded him and a few other students who reached late.

Beside him he heard Jungkook heaving.

“Thanks Jungkook.” Taehyung spoke as they both gathered their senses and started walking towards their class.

Jungkook nodded mutely before taking his bag from Taehyung. “You need to sort this out, Taehyung. You can't make a fool of yourself every time you cross paths with that shorty.”

Taehyung frowned, “Don't call him ‘short’, Kook. It's rude-”

Jungkook groaned out, “Just shut up.”

-

The morning incident became a blur as soon as they entered the classroom and met all of their friends after the long and dragged out summer vacation.

Taehyung and Jungkook were immediately swamped by the friends group they learnt to belong with over the years.

“Taehyung you grew out your hair?” Moonbyul, one of their few female friends remarked.

Taehyuhg nodded, “My sister's orders. She recently saw an anime in which the main protagonist had long hair and now she wants both me and my younger brother to have the same length…does it look bad tho?”

Moonbyul shook her head, “No it looks good honestly but the way you give in to your siblings’ whims is so cute!”

Taehyung rolled his eyes, “Shut up, Byul.”

“Anyways you guys gonna join any new clubs this year? I was thinking of joining the swimming club.” Park Bogum spoke up, catching the attention of the group.

“You know swimming?” Jungkook asked.

“I joined classes over the vacation…the coach said I was a natural…so I thought why not give it a try.” Bogum replied albeit a bit shyly.

“A natural, huh?” Moonbyul teased, making Bogum go pink in the cheeks.

“Guys, Mr. Cheol is here!” Someone announced and everyone scurried back to their seats.

Soon enough their amiable class teacher walked in carrying a few sheets of paper and books. He placed his things on the teacher's table and looked up to address the class with a smile.

“Had a good vacation class?” He asked and a few murmurs of agreement along with disagreements rang out throughout the class.

“Well it's the first class after the holidays so it's only natural that we dive into our syllabus headfirst and complete the toughest chapter out there!” Mr. Cheol announced with enthusiasm which nobody seemed to share.

“Oh god please tell me he is joking.” Taehyung groaned out louder than he intended to, making a few of his classmates laugh while the others still sat in disbelief.

To their collective relief, Mr. Cheol chuckled, “Must be your lucky day Mr. Kim, cuz I in fact was just messing with you guys.”

“I love him.” Jungkook muttered with heart eyes making Taehyung doubt whether he was truly joking.

“Okay then let's just start from revising what we've already covered.” The teacher said as he scrounged for a piece of chalk from the drawer.

“Right, so who can tell me what a mitochondria is?”

-

“Why can't every teacher be like Mr. Cheol?” Jungkook sighed as he and Taehyung made their way to the art class while the other members of their group went to join poetry class.

“The way you idolise him, Kook, I'm starting to doubt whether you're truly joking or not.” Taehyung voiced out his thoughts as he adjusted his art supplies.

“What's not to like about him tho? He's handsome, young, loves the subject he teaches and probably one of the only teachers in our school with a good sense of humour.” Jungkook listed off.

“Uh hel-lo he is married. To Mr. Yoon of the sports club.” Taehyung pointed out.

“Yeah yeah I know. I was just kidding, their love story is one of a kind.” Jungkook sighed for the nth time as the duo reached the art room.

Taehyung however lost his breath as he spotted Park Jimin being the only occupant of the class till now, his beautiful face scrunched in concentration as he scribbled something down on his sketchbook.

The pink haired boy looked up as the duo entered and passed them a smile.

Taehyung chose to not comment on the way Jimin's eyes seemed to have lingered on Jungkook before settling on him.

“Hi, Taehyung, right?” The boy started in a friendly voice, “I couldn't introduce myself in the morning, I'm Park Jimin.”

Jungkook snorted, “Yeah, he knows.”

Taehyung elbowed him hard.

The brunette smiled back, praying the other one didn't notice his reddened cheeks.

Jimin continued, “It was a really eventful morning today.”

“Y-Yeah…you got your name written down on the late comers though, Jimin-ssi” Taehyung internally celebrated for being able to convey a coherent sentence to the other.

Jimin chuckled, “It's not the first time. And you can just call me hyung.”

Accumulating all the courage Taehyung had gathered in his entire 17 years of existence, he managed to ask in what he hoped was in a nonchalant tone, “Is the seat reserved….Jimin hyung?” He pointed to the seat next to Jimin.

Behind him he heard Jungkook choke on the water he had been sipping.

Jimin blinked at the sudden question but then passed the other an apologetic smile, “Yes, it's reserved. I'm really sorry, Taehyung.”

Taehyung nodded, trying his hardest to not let the disappointment reflect on his face as he replied, “Oh it's totally cool, don't worry.” He reassured, before going and sitting next to Jungkook.

Jungkook didn't comment but instead patted his back in a supportive manner.

Soon the class buzzed with conversation as students spilled in. Art was one of the few classes that was common for grades 10-12 and given the few number of students opting art so the school took their class combined.

The class was about to begin and Taehyung couldn't help but notice that the seat next to Jimin was still empty.

‘Did Jimin lie in order to not sit with me?’ He thought, his heart dropping to his stomach at the thought.

He didn't get the chance to convey his thoughts to Jungkook as their art teacher walked in, followed by a student who had never seen before in school.

“Is that a new student?” Jungkook asked him.

Taehyung frowned, a new student in the middle of a school year?

“Must be.” He replied dryly, his mind still stuck at the tauntingly empty seat beside Jimin.

“Good morning class, hope you all had a wonderful summer break. Well I would like to introduce you all to the newest member of our class, Kim Seokjin, who has joined our school today itself.” Ms. Song announced.

The boy faced the class in order to introduce himself and Taehyung didn't question the few gasps that rang out in the class.

Kim Seokjin was simply ethereal.

His seemingly innocent doe honey coloured eyes were wide with curiosity as he took in his new classmates and surroundings, his ears slightly reddening as the total attention of the class fell on him.

He stood as tall as Taehyung, his wide shoulders and somewhat muscular gait gave him a youthful boyish persona.

And Taehyuhg hadn't even started on the most appealing feature on the boy's face.

Those fucking sinful lips.

“Wow.” Jungkook breathed out besides him, and Taehyung couldn't agree more.

Not that he cared or anything.

Taehyung thought as he snapped his gaze away from the other man.

Seokjin had supposedly finished giving his introduction cuz Ms. Song was now giving him instructions regarding the basic rules and regulations to be followed in the class.

The newcomer nodded resolutely then went ahead to sit beside…

…Jimin.

The more pressing matter was the way the pink haired boy practically squealed in joy as Seokjin joined him.

The way the usually reserved boy now couldn't stop whispering and exchange enthusiastic words amongst each other. So much so that the teacher had to call them out- even then the duo continued conversing with their eyes and body language, smothering giggles and snickers with their hands

Taehyung frowned and whether fortunately or unfortunately it was that exact moment Seokjin met his eyes.

The other was shocked to be at the receiving end of such a heated glare but Taehyung didn't look away.

Taehyung hated Seokjin.

-

Taehyung's mood was sour the entire day.

He scoffed at how his mood had kicked up a complete 180° after the art class incident.

He kicked a piece of rock on the concrete road out of bitterness as the unwanted scenes raided his mind yet again.

Jungkook had questioned his uncharacteristically sour mood but Taehyung was in no position to explain.

He knew he was being petty, terribly so, but he couldn't help it.

And now it seemed as if Jimin was happy to see everyone except him.

Maybe someday he'll get over it. If Jimin was happy with that Seokjin guy then who was he to break them up?

“Welcome back~ Geez why the long face, brother?” Immersed in his thoughts, Taehyung hadn't even realised that he'd reached his home. His younger sister looked at him inquiringly as he walked in.

“How are you back early?” Taehyung asked instead, “You did go to school today, right?”

Taesoo, his younger sister, rolled her eyes, “Duh. The principal allowed the entire 8th grade to leave home early.”

“Uh- why?” He asked, confused.

Taesoo grinned, “Someone let a couple frogs lose in our class and it caused a huge ruckus so that's why the principal allowed us to leave early while they sorted out the mess. Serves them right for keeping a dozen of living frogs in the school to be honest.”

Taehyung gave a side-eye, “Why do I feel like you had something to do with this entire fiasco?”

Taesoo gasped and said, “How could you think so low of me, hyung?! I just simply startled the boy carrying the box with the frogs, causing him to drop them! And besides, no one got blamed, so no harm done.” She winked cheekily.

“Honestly Soo, if you weren’t so bloody brilliant at studying, the school would have kicked you out long ago.”

Taesoo flipped her hair back, “Not my fault that I’m so talented.”

“Anyways, Taemin will be staying back for his soccer practice and will be back at around 5pm.” She further informed her elder brother as the duo walked into the living room.

Taehyung nodded, “You had something to eat?”

Taesoo shook her head, “Nah not yet, I was just finishing up some of my work so I thought I'll just eat it together with you. Mom made kimchi fried rice, it’s kept in the fridge.”

“Let me go and freshen up then.” And with that he walked up to his room.

“Do you know that we're going to have a new neighbour? Mrs. Jang told me she rented her apartment to someone from our school.” Taesoo said as her brother joined her for lunch.

“Oh I see. Good for us there will be no more annoying piano sessions in the middle of the night.” Taehyung remarked as he switched on the television, browsing for something watch-worthy.

Taesoo agreed, “I know right? I was so elated when she told me this- I hope it didn't reflect on my face.” She said, making her brother laugh.

“But no more festive cookies as well.” Taehyung pointed out as he finally settled on an anime that was gaining popularity these days.

“Everything comes at a price.” Taesoo sighed, focusing on picking out peas from her lunch. 

Taehyung couldn't agree more.

-

“Wow it's been a long day, hasn't it?” Jimin groaned as he and Jin made their way towards their school lockers.

Jin nodded, “I did expect my first day to be hectic but still- why are all the teachers so damn passionate?!” He whined as he took the stuff he needed from his locker.

“Consider this to be the teaser for what you're about to go through the entire year.” Jimin said chuckling, “Which teacher did you like the best tho?”

Jin shrugged, “I don't know….maybe Mrs. Hyeri? The Accountancy teacher.”

“Whaaatt? Not Ms. Song? She's the most chill teacher out there and is excellent at art!” Jimin gasped in shock.

“I liked her…but her students don't like me.” He sighed.

Jimin frowned, “What do you mean? People literally gasped when they saw you, Jin.” He said as they made their way towards the school gate.

Jin felt his ears reddening at that. “I know Chim, but there was this one guy I don't know his name. And I accidentally made eye contact with him- and for some reason he was straight up glaring at me….it was so unnerving.”

“Made me feel like I stole something very precious from him or something.” He continued in a small voice.

“Which guy was it?” Jimin enquired.

“The tan guy who was seated with the muscular guy in the first seat? The one with a mullet haircut?” Jin tried to reminisce about the physical attributes of the guy that seemed to hate him.

“Wait- Taehyung? He was glaring at you?” Jimin asked, baffled.

“Yeah…I don't know why though.” Jin replied, seriously feeling down for being the subject of such uninvited hate.

“But Taehyung's a sweet guy! Why would he glare at you? Besides, he met you for the first time today!” Jimin continued, not able to wrap his head around this revelation.

Jin sighed, “I don't know Chim, must be something about me that rubbed him the wrong way.”

Jimin scoffed, “Something wrong about you? Jin you really need to look at a mirror, you're perfect just the way you are. Besides I'm sure this has to be a misunderstanding so don't beat yourself up for this.”

Jin nodded mutely.

“Do you want to go and talk to him?” Jimin asked, feeling really concerned at how his cousin's first day at his school had turned out to be.

Jin’s head shot up, “No Chim! There's a high possibility that it was just a misunderstanding or maybe he was just having a bad day but if this continues, I'll talk to that guy myself.” He said adamantly as they walked out from the school gates. 

Jimin smiled and threw his arm over the other's wide shoulders. “That's like my boy! Now stop moping and go figure out how you're gonna deny all those date invites in the future.” The smaller man giggled.

Jin rolled his eyes, “Shut up.”

“Hey well look on the bright side, we've still got to play the new video game my parents got me! So throw all the worries out of the window!” Jimin reminded Jin, who finally smiled at the thought of the good times awaiting them home.

“It had completely escaped my mind! Ugh all this highschool drama is messing with my brain and today was just the first day!” Jin whined, stomping his foot.

Jimin laughed at that.

-

“Mom you're back?” Taehyung called out from his room as he heard the front door opening.

“Is that the way you protect the house? Laying down on your bed and asking the intruder whether it's me?” His mom laughed as she walked into the living room.

Taehyung chuckled as he got off from his bed and headed downwards.

“Taesoo left for her piano lessons?” His mother asked as her eldest son joined her.

“Yup, and Taemin is sleeping in his room.” Taehyung informed as the duo sat down on the couch. “How was your day, ma?”

Mrs. Kim chuckled, “Am I not the one supposed to ask you this question?” She ruffled his hair, “It was good. Tiring undoubtedly, but it felt good.”

“What about you?” She asked.

Taehyung sighed, “The worst. Had to carry that muscle bunny’s bag for the third time in a row, even when he's clearly the stronger one amongst us.”

“Well it was you who came up with this stupid idea in the first place.” His mother shrugged, “Besides why do I feel like there's something more to the tiredness etched into your face?”

Taehyung bit his lips at her words, “I-I may have ruined someone's special day for them…but I couldn't really help it.” He admitted in a small voice.

His mother frowned, “That's so unlike you, Tae-bear…what happened?”

Taehyung shook his head, “I can't tell you the details but there was a new kid in our art class today and let's just say we both got off the wrong foot.”

“Well as your dad used to say- if you make someone's special day bad then you also gotta make their bad day special. And I'm sure that you know what needs to be done.” His mother smiled, bracingly.

Taehyung felt remorse surge in his veins, he really acted like a shit head in front of Seokjin.

“Don't worry mom, I know what I have to do.” He reassured her.

“By the way did you know that your daughter freed a bunch of living toads in her class room?”

“She did what now?!”

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

The next day at school, Taehyung was determined to make amends for his poor behaviour.

As usual he was accompanied by Jungkook who was actually still in shock of losing their traditional game and was currently carrying Taehyung's bag.

And they made school on time as well.

Maybe it was just his lucky day today, Taehyung thought as he rehearsed what he ought to do.

“Hyung! Wait up!” The duo looked back as they were about to enter their classroom. They saw a sheepish Taemin approach them.

Him and Taesoo usually left for school an hour before him due to their basketball practice.

“Min? What's wrong?” Taehyung asked as Jungkook greeted his younger brother with a fist bump.

“I forgot to tell you but today's the first inter-house football match today, it'll be immediately after recess so you'll come to support me won't you, hyung and you too Kookie hyung?” The younger boy gave his best puppy eyes to the duo.

“Of course Min, which house are you playing against today?” Jungkook asked, immensely interested having dropped out of football just this year.

“The Raging Lions.” Taemin answered, “It'll be easier to defeat them since you're not not there anymore.” He said, making Jungkook chuckle at the praise.

“Huh, don't be too sure, I'm sure our house is going to win anyways.” Taehyung said, puffing out his chest.

Taemin gave his brother a stink eye, “Yeah? We'll see about that.”

“If I don't see you both cheering for me in the audience- I'll never bake my special brownies for you guys.” He continued in a warning tone.

Jungkook gasped at the threat, “I'll even make a plough card for you Min, please don't stop baking brownies!”

“Best if you guys don't take chances then.” Taemin said with an air of finality and he walked away, completely oblivious to the longing stares girls passed his way.

“He's the complete opposite of Taesoo, don't you think? Even though they are twins, I feel like Taesoo would have threatened us with daggers to our neck.” Jungkook muttered as the duo finally walked inside their class.

Taehyung's eyes raked the time table that was attached to his class bulletin board, his heart sinking as he realised that he didn't have art today.

Meaning he would've to talk to Seokjin during recess.

He sighed. Not exactly upto his plan but he could make it work.

“You alright buddy?” Jungkook asked as he took in Taehyung's sudden crestfallen look. “Is it about Jimin?” He prodded.

Taehyung sighed at the irony. “No actually… it's the new student-”

“Hah I knew it! The moment you found someone better you'll forget Jimin!” Jungkook said with a triumphant smile.

“But I totally get you, I mean the new student looks like an absolute drea- OUCH!”

Jungkook yelped as Taehyung hit him hard on the head with his maths book.

“Dude! Don't hit my head! And secondly, what the fuck?!” he cried out, nursing his head.

“You think I'll just move from Jimin just like that? He is Park Jimin- the love of my life- so you don't get to spew shit like that. I'm just hoping to meet Seokjin so that I can apologise for my unnecessarily cold behaviour towards him.” Taehyung finished.

Jungkook's mouth formed an ‘o’ shape.

“Oh I see where you're coming from….Seokjin and Jimin were quite chummy-chummy right?” He asked.

Taehyung nodded, his heart sinking. “Yeah they were and that's why I highly dislike that Seokjin but it's not his fault and-” he took a deep breath before continuing, “If they're truly dating and in love with each other, I'm not going to sabotage their relationship.”

“If Jimin is truly happy with that guy then-”

Jungkook interrupted Taehyung's monologue, “Uh- you know that they could be old friends, relatives, best friends any of those right? Just because they were talking and giggling doesn't necessarily mean that they're dating.”

Taehyung opened and closed his mouth like a fish before answering with a frown, “I mean- yeah, but it's better to expect the worse….you know, prudence rule of accounting?”

“We are science students.” Jungkook deadpanned.

-

“I SHOULD'VE FREAKING KNOWN TO NOT HAVE TRUSTED YOU!” Kim Seokjin half yelled, half whispered, heaving with exertion as he ran up the stairs alongside Jimin, both of them late for their lessons.

“Trusted me?! You were the one who kept buying snacks from the roadside and then had to use the public washroom!” Jimin cried out as they finally reached their classroom floor.

“That would've hardly taken 10 minutes! We could've been way earlier if you hadn't woken up half an hour late!”

“I woke up half an hour earlier today.” Jimin replied haughtily, making Seokjin facepalm.

“Besides, stop overreacting- we're here aren't we?” Jimin's voice dropped to a whisper as they neared their ongoing class.

“Um good morning sir. Can we come in?” The duo chorused, standing at the doorframe.

Their teacher frowned disapprovingly, “Late again Park Jimin? And you're dragging the new student with you? Get inside- and make sure you guys are on time from tomorrow.”

The duo walked in quietly and took their respective seats.

“So as I was saying, our school is conducting an art exhibition this month. This is regarding the students in the art club but if someone else is also interested they can join.”

“In this art exhibition, you’ll need to take a famous and traditional piece of art and redraw it into your own art style. There are other details regarding, I've just provided you with the rough overview- so better if you contact Ms. Song for further details.”

The concluded before turning towards the board to start his regular teaching lessons.

“Sounds interesting, doesn’t it?” Jimin whispered to Jin, who nodded.

“Yeah it is but I’m terrible at art- I only joined the club cuz I didn’t want to be alone.” He pouted, scribbling the few notes in his notebook as he did so.

“So what? It’s an art exhibition not competition….besides you know what? Taehyung’s excellent at art. Jungkook too.” Jimin added as an afterthought.

Jin rolled his eyes, “That boy seems to like everything except me.”

Jimin chuckled, trying to keep his head low when the teacher suddenly started asking questions from the class.

“You're gonna join me to watch the soccer match today right?” Jimin asked after a bit of time.

Jin frowned, “I thought senior classes weren’t allowed to go given their classes and all.”

Jimin shrugged at that, an all too familiar glint shining bright in his eyes, “Your point?”

The brunette sighed, “And I’d thought that I’d make the best impression on my teachers.”

Jimin giggled at that.

“Park Jimin, stop tittering around in my class!”
.
.
.

Soon enough recess time rolled around and Jin and Jimin walked out of their class to the cafeteria.

Or so Jin thought.

“Where are we going?” He asked frowning, the school still not all familiar to him.

“A secret spot. From where we’ll be able to sneak out easily to the match.” Jimin supplied, as a matter of fact.

“You know I’m getting a really bad feeling about this….skipping a class just to see a match- why are you so eager to watch the match anyways?” Jin burst out, his nerves tingling with nervousness.

“Calm down Jin, I just like football very much.” Jimin replied, not meeting Jin’s eyes, “Besides we’re skipping library period Jin.”

“Whatever. This is still morally wrong.”

Jimin rolled his eyes, “Where were your high moral ethics when you ate my last mochi without telling me yesterday?”

“I did that cuz that was satisfying- this on the other hand is not.” Jin pointed out. Jimin gave him a stink-eye before announcing their destination.

“Okay this is the place- eat up quickly I don’t want to miss the match.” Jimin instructed as the duo settled on the spot and opened their lunch boxes.

-

“You’re coming for the match right?” Jungkook asked as he added finishing touches to the plough-card he’d actually made to support Taehyung’s brother.

Taehyung wrinkled his nose, “As cheesy as this is- Taemin’s really gonna appreciate this.”

“And yes, I’ll come to see the match but I’ll go and apologise to Seokjin first- it’s making me feel all angsty inside the more I delay it.” Taehyung continued, answering Jungkook’s initial question as he arranged his stuff.

Jungkook nodded, “Sure, I’ll save you a seat.” He gave a long look to the now completed plough-card. “Feels so wrong to support the opposition…but need to do this for brownies.” He muttered to himself, making Taehyung chuckle.

The duo walked out of the class before going in separate directions. “Make it fast!” Jungkook called out and Taehyung gave a hasty nod before disappearing down the hall.

Taehyung sighed out in frustration as he confirmed that Seokjin (and Jimin too for some reason) were not present even in their classrooms. That information nagged at him, given the fact that they weren’t present in any of the possible locations they could be at this moment but Taehyung shrugged it out as Jungkook’s voice echoed in his head.

They could be old friends, relatives, best friends, any of those right?

Taehyung nodded.

He just needs to stay optimistic.

And with that thought Taehyung walked around aimlessly through the corridor, brainstorming all the possible places he had missed.

He checked his watch- it was already 5 minutes into the match he had to go attend the match now-

Taehyung gasped as the broom cupboard a bit ahead of him rustled with activity and OMG WERE THOSE GRUNTS??!!

Mortified, Taehyung turned to leave, trying to give the people occupied there doing god-knows-what a bit of privacy, but not before he managed to catch a glimpse of the people stumbling out of the broom cupboard.

Jimin and Seokjin

JIMIN AND SEOKJIN

Both sweaty, uniform ruffled up with embarrassed grins etched onto their faces.

no! No! NO!

God! Why did he have to witness this?!

Taehyung felt his body seize up as he felt the duo finally registering his presence.

Seokjin’s eyes widened while Jimin stuttered, “T-Taehyung? What are you doing here?”

“N-Nothing I was headed towards the staff room actually, lost my way.” Words spilled out of his mouth on their own before he all but ran to almost to the opposite side of the school.

He finally stopped in front of the thankfully empty computer lab, his breaths ragged from all the running, his vision turning blurry as tears trickled down his eyes on their own volition.

So much for being optimistic.

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

"You done?" Jimin asked, standing up. Jin nodded as he ate the last bite of his lunch and stood up next to Jimin.

The duo arranged their stuff and stepped onto the empty corridor.

Jimin peered round the corner to make sure their path to the ground was clear, beside him Jin gnawed on his lips.

"Chim-" He started, worry evident in his voice but he was rudely interrupted by Jimin.

"Shit what are they doing here?" Jimin hissed.

Jin frowned, "Who-" And he was rudely cut off yet again as Jimin grabbed him by his collar and pushed the two of them into a nearby broom cupboard.

"Ouch!" Jin yelped quietly as Jimin stepped on his foot, given the tight space the duo had squeezed themselves into.

"What the fuck, Chim?" Jin glared at him.

"The Student Heads." Jimin whispered back. "Please stay quiet if you don't want to get detention for at least a week."

Jin gulped nervously and nodded.

Soon enough there could be voices heard from the spot they had previously occupied.

Jin and Jimin held their breaths, waiting for the people to walk by. Unfortunately for them a mop chose that exact moment to lean against Jin, its bristles brushing against his neck.

Jin jumped in the minimal space the cupboard allowed him, thinking it was a spider, causing a bucket to tumble over.

The duo stilled and perhaps so had the Heads of the student council.

"What is it, Yoon?" A male voice asked, just a few inches away from the closet.

"I thought I heard something.... nevermind let's go Hoba."

And their footsteps were no more audible as they turned round the corner.

Both Jin and Jimin let out huge sighs of relief.

Jin made to move out first but his leg caught the bucket causing him to barrel into Jimin, who grunted at the sudden force.

After a few minutes of struggles and pushes the duo managed to stumble out.

Stumble out in front of...

"T-Taehyung? What are you doing here?"

-

"FLYING EAGLES WON THE MATCH 4 - 2 AGAINST RAGING LIONS!!" The commentator announced, erupting cheers and groans throughout the ground.

Jungkook hollered alongside the wild crowd holding up his plough card proudly, "WAY TO GOO!!!"

Few bystanders glared at the ex-Raging Lions captain.

Jungkook brushed off the stares before glancing worriedly at the still empty seat beside him.

Has the apology gone well?

He gave one last congratulatory flying kiss to Taemin who laughed and pretended to catch it before Jungkook went back inside the school campus.

He frowned as he saw Taehyung seated in their class, accompanied by Moonbyul and Bogum.

Taehyung seemed to be fine from a distance but as Jungkook neared he confirmed the redness in his best friend's eyes.

They needed to have a talk ASAP.

"Heyoooo!" He announced his arrival before plopping down on the seat next to Taehyung who as expected avoided his gaze.

"How was the match?" Taehyung asked, his faux cheerfulness not fooling the muscle bunny.

"Very good, Taemin's team won and he secured the winning goal- I felt like a proud dad." He feigned wiping tears before he caught Moonbyul's and Bogum's questioning glances.

'What's wrong with Taehyung?'

'Later.' Jungkook shook his head.

"Taesoo's definitely gonna throw a secret party." Taehyung muttered, with a small sigh.

"She has already begun- in the school cafeteria." Jungkook deadpanned.

"Have you guys brought your holiday project files?" Bogum asked, changing the topic.

He was met with three blank stares.

"Were we supposed to bring it today?!" Jungkook gasped.

"I haven't even started it!"

This time Moonbyul was met with three blank stares.

"What?" She pouted.

"Forget I asked anything." Bogum sighed.

-

Jungkook wondered if it was the right time to ask Taehyung what was wrong. They had just finished their classes for the day and were headed towards the school exit.

But Taehyung looked so sad that Jungkook was scared to make things worse for him.

While on the other hand- he was so curious to know what had happened.

"Taehyung?" He started tentatively, "You alright buddy?"

"Huh?" Taehyung asked, breaking out of his train of thoughts, "Yeah I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?"

Jungkook sighed, this was going to be difficult.

"Hyung!" The duo turned around at the call to see both Taesoo and Taemin bounding towards them, both of them in extremely high spirits.

"You didn't come to my match, hyung." Taemin started, "I even scored the winning goal this time...I wanted you to see it." He admitted in a small voice.

"Taemin-ah, hyung is sorry...I got caught up in some work- I had even asked Jungkook to save me a seat..." He apologised to his younger brother, who nodded.

"It's okay hyung, I knew you wouldn't miss my game unless it was an emergency." Taemin smiled.

"But I hope you know that I'm so proud of you."

"Okay so I want Butterscotch flavour." Taesoo announced, making the other three people frown in confusion.

"What?"

Taesoo tched, "You have to make it up to us right? So I want butterscotch ice cream."

Taehyung frowned, "Why would I have to make it up to you? I'll buy one for Min."

Taesoo gasped, "We're twins hyung! Any pain of his is a pain of mine!"

"Oh really? Why do you hit me then? Are you into masochism or something Soo?" Taemin feigned concern which earned him a kick to the shins.

"Okay okay stop fighting you both- let's go and buy ice-cream."

"And me?" Taehyung paused as Jungkook gave him his puppy eyes.

"What? Do you also feel Taemin's pain now?" Taehyung deadpanned.

"I watched his entire match! Heck I even made a plough card! I ought to be rewarded!" Jungkook burst out.

"What a good hyung." Taesoo said, wiping invisible tears, making Taehyung roll his eyes.

"I'm surrounded by idiots. Let's go, you freeloaders."

-

"You're getting awfully affected by this Jin." Jimin pointed out as the duo settled on Jimin's bed.

"You don't understand- the way he looked when saw us stumble out, that utter look of betrayal- I can't get that out of my head." Jin sighed as he fidgeted with the bedsheet.

"You're saying as if he caught us doing something inappropriate! We were hiding in order to not get detention." Jimin spoke in a rational voice.

"Besides why do you care about what he thinks- you don't even know him and vice versa....not to mention he was the one who made you feel uncomfortable first." The shorter male continued.

"I don't know...I feel like it's my fault." Jin mumbled, his voice small.

"You're gonna move into your new place tomorrow- are you sure you want to spend the last day with your beloved cousin moping for some random guy you don't even know?" Jimin groaned as he fell back onto his bed.

That caught Jin's attention, "You're right, besides moping won't change anything."

"Let's go and have fun." Jin announced, his voice resolute.

"We have 3 assignments to submit by tomorrow." Jimin reminded the other.

"Then why would you suggest to have fun?!" Jin whined, "I was in the mood now!"

"I never suggested to have fun besides we can have fun after we're done with work." Jimin corrected himself.

"You didn't say that earlier." Jin grumbled as he sat back down, dragging his bag over.

"Ugh Integrals." He gave his maths assignment a hateful glare.

"Tell me about it." Jimin groaned, sitting back up to do his own assignment.

"One round of Mario kart then we'll begin?" Jin offered, his eyes hopeful.

"No, Jin. You know we won't get any work done then. Procrastination is the only talent we share." Jimin refused, stating the obvious.

"I don't like you."

"Love you too." The other replied with a wink.

"Did uncle and aunt call you about tomorrow?" Jimin enquired after a few minutes into their homework.

Jin nodded, not looking up as he completed his sums, "Yeah... I think Joonie will help me move my stuff in."

Jimin whined, "I wish I could accompany you as well- ugh why did Hoseok have to keep the dance club meeting tomorrow??"

Jin chuckled, "You would've just made our work harder...it's probably for the best."

Jimin huffed, "Mean. At what time are the movers booked for?"

"11 or 12." Jin shrugged, "Not sure about their punctuality, but I guess everything would be settled by evening."

"Hmm...maybe I'll sleep over then."

"You're insufferable." Jin laughed.

"It's just my love for you." Jimin sent him a flying kiss which Jin smacked away.

"Okay let's get back to work!"

-

“Is that all, Jin?” Namjoon asked as he put down the last heavy cardboard box, sweat dripping down his face from all the exertion.

“Yup.” Jin answered, wiping his face. The couple of movers who had accompanied them, bowed and went away- Namjoon already had paid them.

“So this is your apartment? Not bad.” The older brother grinned as he took in the apartment a bit too big for one person.

“Dad chose it…even though I told him this was a bit over the top but Jimin has already announced his plans for a sleepover so I guess I won't be alone most of the time.” Jin shook his head.

Namjoon chuckled, “Not a bad idea- even I can crash here sometimes, given how near this is to my office.”

“Hyung, I’m supposed to live alone!” Jin protested, “You have such a big house to live near the Han river!”

Namjoon laughed, “I was just joking…though I’m glad to know that my presence brings so much happiness.” He muttered dryly, feigning bitterness.

Jin rolled his eyes, “You know what I mean.”

“When are you going to greet your neighbours?” Namjoon asked, plopping down on the sofa.

“Just now, after taking a shower….I baked a couple of macaroons with Jimin’s help last night, so I’ll just distribute them to everyone on my floor.”

“And yes, I have two extra for you as well- take them out from the pink container.” Jin said as Namjoon was rising to protest.

“Love you little bro~” The taller man announced as he pranced towards the kitchen.

Jin rolled his eyes, before heading into the shower with his shower supplies cradled in his arms.

(45 minutes later -)

“Will you accompany me?” Jin asked as he fixed the collar of his shirt, giving his outfit a final overlook.

“Nahh I’m just gonna sleep for a while. I'm dead tired after all that shifting work and this bed looks so comfy!” Namjoon said as he walked in the bedroom.

“Yikes don’t you dare sleep on those fresh sheets with your sweaty clothes- go and shower first!” He said almost kicking Namjoon down from his bed.

The older groaned out as he handed in the floor with a loud thud.

“And I’m leaving!” Jin called out as he grabbed the several packed macaroons and stepped outside his apartment before Namjoon could get back at him.

He first went to his landlord who was an old sweet lady with a crazy passion for piano.

She greeted him with a warm smile, telling him to be comfortable in his new environment, mentioning all the convenient grocery stores and other essential stores nearby.

“Omg Seokjin-ah! These are so good! You made them yourself?!" She cried out with happiness as she ate the macaroons Jin had brought.

“Yeah kind of- I mean my cousin likes to claim that he helped me but all he really did was knock off the flour cup on the kitchen counter and add to the mess.” Jin said, making Mrs. Jang laugh.

“But I’m glad you enjoyed them, I’ll make much more goods for you.” He bowed.

“You’re such a talented cook, Seokjin, no wonder your parents allowed you to live alone. You can clearly look after yourself very well.” Mrs. Jang complimented him yet again.

Jin chuckled, “Thank you…I’ll get going now Mrs. Jang- distribute these to my other neighbours.”

Mrs. Jang nodded and Jin went on his way.

-

“Taehyung can you please get the door?” Mrs. Kim called out from where she was settled on the couch.

Taehyung walked out of his room and groaned, “But you’re so much closer to it, ma!”

“Oh yeah? That’s the attitude I get after suffering for 9 months in order to plop you out into this world safely?!”

Taehyung rolled his eyes, “You need to stop watching those soap operas, besides I was a premature baby!”

He said as he went to receive the door.

“Hello, I’m Kim Seokjin, you’re new neighbour please-” Jin cut off as he took in the person standing before him.

“T-Taehyung? You l-live here?!” Jin stammered his heart hammering at the unexpected meeting with the younger boy, who seemed to share his state of shock.

“Um well anyways, good to see you here…” Jin trailed off unsurely after a moment of uncomfortably prolonged silence as he received a steady blank stare from the younger.

“Wow you really do hate me, don’t you? I can literally see it in your eyes.” Jin scoffed as he held out the macaroons to the other. “Hope you enjoy them.”

Taehyung blinked, finally recovering from his initial shock, “T-Thanks.” He said receiving the small package.

“Why do you hate me by the way?” Jin asked abruptly, the air surrounding the duo becoming heavier.

“I don't…” Taehyung started but Jin interrupted him.

“You've been glaring absolute daggers at me ever since you first saw me. I joined the school hardly a week ago and you act as if we've been mortal enemies since birth!” Jin burst out.

“I-”

“You like Jimin don't you?” Jin asked suddenly, making Taehyung freeze in his place, “That's the reason you hate me? Because I'm always with him?”

“Can you lower your  tone down? My mom is just sitting in the living room!” Taehyung snarled as he shut the front door and took a couple of steps towards Jin who backed away.

“What is your damn problem?!” Taehyung asked, frustration heavy in his voice. “Yes, I like Jimin so what huh? What does that piece of information help you achieve?!”

“I just need you to stop acting as if I committed some sort of crime- you make me feel like utter shit for no fucking reason!” Jin fired back. The duo were clearly yelling in the hallway but none of them cared.

“I'm pretty sure doing indecent activities in school is a juvenile crime.” Taehyung sneered.

Jin was flabbergasted as he flushed with embarrassment, “Is this about the broom closet incident? We were not-”

Taehyung pinched his eyes shut and took a deep breath, “Look Seokjin-ssi please. I don’t want to talk about this….let’s just mutually ignore the fact that we are each other’s neighbours and live on with our life”

“Fuck you, Kim Taehyung.” Jin gritted out before heading into his own apartment and slamming the door shut.

"Right back at you!"

“Who was it dear?” Taehyung’s mother enquired as he walked back in the living room.

“No one, just a new neighbour- gave this.” He said as he unceremoniously dropped the little packaged macaroon and went straight to his bedroom.

-

“Guess who's hereeee?!” Jimin announced enthusiastically as Jin opened the door. He rolled his eyes as Jimin walked in with a hop. 

“Woah- this house is big.” Jimin said his eyes widened with awe.

“Make yourself comfy. Anything particular you want to eat?” Jin spoke and Jimin didn't miss his downturned lips and saddened eyes.

“Jinnie? You okay?” He asked, concerned.

Jin shook his head, “I'm not….I-” He took a deep breath and looked away.

“I miss my parents…I want to go back.” His chest hurt as Jimin engulfed him in a hug.

“What's wrong?”

“Nothing…it’s just the city is way more harsh than the countryside- Forget I even said anything, I was just being stupid.” Jin mumbled out on Jimin's shoulder.

Jimin tightened his hug, “I know this change of surroundings must be tough for you, but I’ll always be there for you- you know that right?”

Jin nodded, blinking back the tears in his eyes. After a few moments of his comforting hug, the duo broke away.

And as if on cue, Jimin’s stomach growled.

Jin burst out laughing and Jimin went pink in the cheeks.

“I didn’t get time to eat my lunch amidst the dance practises!” Jimin protested, “This is the outcome of my hard work!” He defended himself with a scowl.

Jin nodded, still chuckling, “Alright, alright- calm your tits down. I have a few macaroons left, enjoy them while I whip up something for dinner.”

“When did Joon-hyung leave?” Jimin asked as the duo walked towards the kitchen.

“After a couple of hours, he slept most of the time and then had to leave due to some work.” Jin replied.

“Even though I’m glad that you’re in a better mood, why do I feel that there was something more to your sad mood?” Jimin enquired as he picked up a chocolate macaroon and hopped on the kitchen counter.

Jin sighed as he took out the minimal grocery he had purchased today from the store Mrs. Jang had recommended him.

“You know who my neighbour is?”

Jimin frowned, “Who?”

“Kim Taehyung.”

Jimin’s eyes widened comically, “Kim Taehyung? Our Kim Taehyung?”

Jin gave him a look, “Our?”

“I mean the one from our school.” He clarified.

“Yup.”

“You both talked? And….it didn’t go well?” Jimin guessed, reading into the situation.

“That’s an understatement.”

“So you guys fought?”

“Yup.”

“I don’t understand why Taehyung is so mean to you, at first I thought you were just overthinking but now it’s just plain weird- what did he say?”

“Please. I don’t want to recall that horrid conversation.” Jin muttered as he got busy with cooking.

Jimin frowned, deep in thought as he bit into the macaroon. He decided that he’ll go talk to Taehyung tomorrow.

He didn’t share this with Jin as he knew the other would protest against it.

But he needed to put an end to this.

-

On Monday, both Seokjin’s and Taehyung’s worst fear came true.

They both ran into each other while leaving for school.

Jin didn’t miss the way Taehyung reacted when Jimin walked out of his apartment with him.

He froze in the middle of his ‘rock, paper,shoot’ game with Jungkook who complained before he turned to look at Taehyung’s source of distraction.

“Oh- Hi Jimin hyung, Seokjin-ssi.” Jungkook bowed at their unexpected meeting. 

“Hi Jungkook, Taehyung. Jin, meet Jungkook-I told you about him, remember, the infamous muscular artist?” Jimin smiled, introducing the two.

Jin nodded, smiling cordially as shook hands with the muscular bunny-looking guy who blushed a little at the compliment.

He made sure to resolutely ignore the other guy still looking flabbergasted and conflicted at the encounter.

“Okay, well I guess we’ll get going- see you both at school,” Jimin interrupted the heavy-turning awkward silence as he and Jin headed downstairs.

“Seokjin is your neighbour?” Jungkook asked after a moment of silence. “And you didn't tell me?”

“What's there to tell?” Taehyung muttered as he slung his bag over his shoulder, forgetting about their traditional game.

“Dude.” Jungkook deadpanned. “Did you not apologise to him? That reminds me I never asked how that went…. you looked very sad that day, did he say something-”

“Kook please. Can we just go? We'll be late.” Taehyung sighed.

The bunny man didn't press the topic any further.

-

“Um excuse me sir, may I please come in?” Jimin asked politely to the teacher.

“Yes Jimin?” The teacher asked as the student walked in.

Both Jungkook and Taehyung looked up at Jimin's voice from where they were scribbling down hurried notes.

“Sir, I need to borrow Kim Taehyung for a moment….it's regarding the dance club.” The boy spoke in a low volume but it was audible enough.

Jungkook passed a questioning glance to Taehyung who shrugged, his heart beating slightly faster.

“Is it important?” The teacher asked, a slight edge to his voice.

Jimin nodded meekly.

The teacher huffed, “Very well then, Kim Taehyung? You may go but I won't repeat the concepts that you’ll miss.”

Taehyung nodded, not caring a bit as he rushed outside the class with Jimin.

“Umm I think you've made a mistake hyung….I'm not in the dance club.” Taehyung mumbled, albeit shyly, as they stepped out of the class and into the empty corridor.

“I'm aware.” Jimin replied. Taehyung frowned at the other's curt reply.

“Let's go somewhere secluded.” Jimin spoke again, guiding the younger to a better spot.

“Uhm so…??” Taehyung started confused at the way the other one was acting a bit jittery now. “You okay?” He asked.

Jimin sighed, “I guess there's no avoiding this-” He took a deep breath, “Taehyung I know that you're sweet, kind, respectful and even kind of popular in our school…”

Jimin began and Taehyung blushed heavily at the praises.

He bit his lips and tried not to think about what he was guessing was going to happen.

Was Jimin confessing to him?

Was his dream finally going to come true?

He was worried that his heart would leap out of his chest at the mere thought of it.

“....so why are you such an ass to Seokjin?” Jimin concluded, looking really conflicted. “I don't know what's making you hate him so much but if this continues I'll have no option but to tell you off…and I really don't want to do that.”

Taehyung blinked once.

Then twice.

Before he understood.

Jimin was here to tell him off for being rude to his boyfriend.

Taehyung gritted his teeth as he tried to not let that piece of information affect him too much.

“I- I don't hate him.” Taehyung got a deja-vu from his conversation with Seokjin the other day.

He really had no chance with Park Jimin, right?

“Tae-” Jimin began but Taehyung interrupted him.

“No hyung really. I don't hate him and I'm really sorry that I made Seokjin-ssi feel like that….actually I was in a very poor mood and he just happened to bear the brunt of it accidentally.” Taehyung said, half truth-half lie, rambling while fidgeting with his fingers.

Jimin gave him a look, “But this still doesn't justify your mean actions towards my cousin… he just moved to this city 2 weeks ago and I want to make him feel as welcome and comfortable as I can- and well putting it out bluntly, you're making it very difficult for me.”

‘Wait, cousin?’

Taehyung didn't realise he'd said that out loud.

“Yeah, he's my cousin? So what? Let me also tell you that he lives here alone away from his parents. And by some stroke of luck you're his neighbour now- so please even if you don't like him, just don't let it show. He has enough on his plate already with you breathing down on his neck at every possible moment.” Jimin continued, his eyes wary.

It finally clicked in Taehyung's mind.

Seokjin was Jimin's cousin?!

God he was so fucking stupid!

“Y-Yeah I understand hyung. It's entirely my fault for judging him without even knowing him…I'll make sure to apologise to him today itself.” Taehyung stammered out an apology.

Jimin regarded him carefully for a few minutes before smiling in relief.

“I'm glad we cleared this mess up. But remember Taehyung one more slip up and…” Jimin left the warning hanging as he passed Taehyung a mocking glare.

But Taehyung didn't need anyone to tell him that the intentions underlying the faux glare were certainly- not faux.

“Also don’t tell him that I spoke to you. See ya later!” Jimin said, switching back to his cheerful self as he walked off, giving the other a somewhat friendly wave.

Taehyung reciprocated the wave before letting out a deep sigh as he leant on the wall.

“Shit man…I fucked up bad.” He muttered to himself.

He ought to make it up to Seokjin as soon as possible.

-

“Um Kim Seokjin?” Jin turned around at the mention of his name.

He was met with two people, one smiling at him warmly and one giving him an uninterested look.

“Hi, I’m Hoseok and this is Yoongi! We’re the school’s Student council Heads. It’s really nice to finally meet you.” The cheerful one or Hoseok chuckled.

“Finally?” Jin enquired.

He sure as hell wasn’t going to tell the duo that they’d already kind of met before- when he was stuck in the broom closet.

Hoseok nodded, “There’s quite a wildfire about the new handsome student that has joined the school, you don’t know?” He said, his eyes twinkling.

Jin felt himself flush at that. “O-Oh I’m sure they’re whimsical rumours.” He muttered.

Hoseok blinked, “Rumours? Boy, I’m standing right in front of you and I wholeheartedly agree with them!”

He, however, let out a small ‘oof’ as Yoongi elbowed him in the stomach.

“What we really came here for, is this.” The shorter man spoke for the first time in their conversation.

Seokjin blinked in confusion as Yoongi thrusted out a small bunch of papers towards him.

“These are the registration forms of all the clubs available in our school, make sure to join at least one till the end of this week….fill up the forms of the clubs that appeal to you and then drop it off with us and we’ll hand it over to the respective club presidents.” The grumpy man continued.

“Thank you.” Jin replied as he took the papers.

“For the record- I’m the president of the Dance club and Yoongi’s the president of the Music club so if you want to join any one of them, you where to find us.” Hoseok winked.

“Dance? Hell nah- I’m sorry but I’ve literally got 2 left feet when it comes to that.” Jin denied immediately with an embarrassed chuckle, “But I can join Music, I took vocal training and can play a few instruments kind of well.”

“Oh no Yoon- you won!” Hoseok pouted and Yoongi smiled a little at that.

“Well I’ll be glad to put your skills to test, make sure to fill those up on time….not trying to put pressure on you but your clubs can either make your year or break it- so choose wisely.” Yoongi said and Jin nodded, feeling determined to impress the mint-haired man with his musical talent.

The duo checked the time and sighed, “End of our free time, see you around Seokjin!”

They waved at him, which Jin reciprocated.

Jin started walking towards his class when he finally found Jimin.

“Jimin! Where did you go? I was searching the entire school for you!” He burst out as he stumbled into the other man round the corridor.

Entire school meant just the corridor outside their class but Jimin didn’t need to know that.

Jimin smiled apologetically, “Sorry, I had to tend to some task.”

Jin gave him a questioning look but then brushed it off, “Well, it’s PT period, let’s head to the ground.”

-

Jin sighed as he took in the array of papers in front of him. They were the various registration papers of the different clubs he’s received in the morning.

He was very conflicted on this matter.

‘Your clubs can either make your year or break it.’

Jin recalled Yoongi’s voice and scoffed- as if he was having a brilliant time anyway.

The clubs most appealing to him were Music, Drama and Volunteering. And the most number of clubs they could choose were 3.

But Jin was apprehensive whether he could manage all the clubs along with his studies.

Opting for 3 clubs would mean that he’d not have a single weekend off.

And so far Jimin was the only friend he had- not including Hoseok or Yoongi as they were just being polite given their position.

He chewed on his lips, what if he remained a sore loner the entire year-

Ding!

Jin frowned as the doorbell went off. His wall clock told him that it was currently 8 at night.

Jimin?

But he said he was very busy with school work today.

Jin peeped in through the peeping hole and stared back in disbelief.

Kim Taehyung?!

He opened the door as the uncalled and unexpected visitor was going to ring his bell for the second time.

“Um yes?” Jin didn’t mean to sound that cold.

Taehyung rubbed his neck, not able to meet his eyes. “Hi, Seokjin-ssi…” The boy started.

Jin gave him a bewildered look, “Hi…? I thought we were going to mutually agree to ignore-”

“Yeah, Yeah I know. And I’m here to apologise for that.” Taehyung interrupted the other, cringing a bit at the words.

“Oh? That's an abrupt change of heart.” He blinked in confusion, “Well? Go on then, apologise.” Jin said after a moment of awkward silence, crossing his arms.

That seemed to finally get Taehyung's gears working.

“Um Seokjin-ssi I’m so fucking sorry for being so rude to you for no solid reason, I was a complete ass to you from the start and ruined your experience of joining anew school entirely. I hope you can find it in yourself to forgive me and even if you don’t, I completely understand. But I swear I’ll make it up to you as soon as possible. Any sort of punishments you want to bestow upon me, I'll accept them with a grateful heart.” Taehyung said, feeling extremely ashamed of himself and his previous actions.

The apologetic man however looked up as he was met with silence and saw Jin trying to stifle his grin but failing miserably at it.

“God Taehyung the way you’re apologising- anyone would believe you ruined my entire life or something.” Jin chuckled, making Taehyung frown.

“Yes I was hurt and confused at first but when I realised the fact that you like Jimin- I understood that your reaction was natural, not acceptable but it’s a common reaction.” Jin said, his voice carrying no amount of malice.“Yes, you should’ve talked to me or something like that before jumping into conclusion, it was immature, but you apologised now- so it's fine, I forgive you and hope you can forgive me as well for cursing at you.” He continued.

Taehyung shook his head, “You don’t have to apologise for that, I deserved it.”

“Jimin is my cousin.” Jin declared in a clear voice.

Taehyung nodded, “Yeah I know-” He stopped as he remembered Jimin’s words.

Jin frowned, “How did you know?”

Taehyung stuttered as he corrected himself, “J-Jungkook told me that it c-could be a possibility so that’s why.”

Jin nodded, “Ah I see.” Then after a pause, “You wanna come in?”

Taehyung licked his lips and smiled abashedly, “I’d love to, actually.”

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

"I meant it, Seokjin-ssi." Taehyung said as the duo settled in the living room of Jin's apartment.

"My dad used to say that if you make someone's special day bad, then you also gotta compensate by making their bad day special- so i'll try my absolute best to make your bad day special." Taehyung completed, his eyes sincere.

Seokjin felt himself flushing under that intense honest stare, "Days actually." He mumbled.

"What?"

"You made 2 of my special days bad- first day of school and first day of moving into my new apartment." Jin pointed out, making Taehyung chuckle.

"Uh- yeah you're right. I'm really sorry, Seokjin-ssi." He repeated.

"Just call me Jin hyung, will you?" Jin smiled as he stood up from the couch.

"Only if you call me Tae." Taehyung shot back with an embarrassed smile.

"Fair enough." Jin chuckled.

"Tae? I'll hold on to your words." He winked and if someone asked him right now, Taehyung couldn't explain why he was blushing.

"Were you doing some work?" Taehyung asked, changing the topic as he eyed the stewed papers.

Jin sighed, "Yeah, Hoseok and Yoongi asked me to fill in the form for the club's I want to join- and I'm really really conflicted."

Taehyung nodded, understanding the other's dilemma, "Choosing a good club is very important."

"I know..."

"You want to choose music? And drama? Wait, you act?" Taehyung asked as he picked up the forms that were separated from the rest.

"Why do you sound so surprised? Do I not look like someone who can act?" Jin asked, defensively.

Taehyung chuckled, "Hyung have you looked at yourself? You look like you were born to play the main role in a romantic drama."

"What I mean to ask is, did you learn? Or does it come naturally?"

"I participated in the small acting gigs here and there in my hometown and a lot of people complimented my acting so..." Jin said, his ears on fire.

"Ah I see, a natural then. Unsurprising." Taehyung grinned.

"Aish, stop with the teasing already!" Jin whined, "Help me choose!"

"Okay, okay calm down." Taehyung laughed, "You're interested in the volunteering club?" He asked, going through the three forms that he was holding.

Jin bit his lips and nodded, "I don't know what to expect from it tho..."

"It's very fun, hyung! I have joined this club too- and let me tell you, last time they took us to an animal shelter and it was so much fun!!" Taehyung said enthusiastically. "I had told Jungkook to join as well but the moron chose the sports club instead." He rolled his eyes.

"I love animal shelters!" Jin gasped, then whined, "Ugh you're making it even more difficult for me." he pouted, "I don't want to join all three of them cuz then it'll mean none of my weekends would be free!"

"Hmm...that's true." His eyes lit up as he was struck with an idea.

"Look hyung, why don't you do this, join music and volunteering clubs and for acting- well they usually hold auditions in order to choose their actors, the club members mostly help in setting up the backgrounds, costumes, props etc. So you don't need to join the drama club in order to be able to act." Taehyung suggested.

"That's a great idea! You're a genius!" Jin praised the younger man who gave an embarrassed smile.

"So music and volunteer clubs then?" Jin confirmed.

"Yup!"

"I forgot to ask, which clubs have you joined?"

"Photography and Volunteering." Taehyung replied.

"And the volunteering club is headed by Mr. Cheol. He's a very chill and cool teacher and is married to Mr. Yoon, the sport's club head. And Yoongi hyung is the president of the Music Club. You met him today, right? He has a natural knack for music, very talented and very tsundere." The younger dutifully informed.

Jin, however, couldn't help but notice the slight melancholy look in other's eyes as he spoke about Yoongi.

Brushing those thoughts off, he chuckled, "I'll keep that in mind. Okay then I'll fill these forms up!"

.

.

.

"Oh my, it's way past my dinner time! You want something to eat?" Jin asked as he checked the time, having finished filling up the forms.

"You can cook?" Taehyungasked, eyes surprised.

"Duh. In case you haven't noticed- I live alone." The older man rolled his eyes, from where he was headed towards the kitchen.

"Oh that reminds me- the macaroons that you gave me the other day were super delicious, you made them??" Taehyung complimented the other as he joined the other in the kitchen.

"Yup, with Jimin's help." He said busy picking out eggs from the fridge. At the mention of Jimin's name the atmosphere of the room suddenly tensed.

"Uh- Hyung....d-did you by any chance t-tell Jimin that I l-like him?" Taehyung mumbled out, suddenly becoming very interested in the apple kept in the fruit basket. He tried to look nonchalant as he spoke but was failing terribly at it.

"It's not my secret to tell, Tae." Jin said in a reassuring tone.

Taehyung sighed out in relief, the tense air clearing out at once. "Thanks hyung."

"But you'll confess to him right? About how you really feel?" Jin asked.

"Yeah....someday."

"Tae, I know how you feel but Jimin's a great guy, really caring and very protective of the people he loves." Jin said.

"Yeah I know." Taehyung muttered but smiled back, "Don't worry hyung, I know he's a great guy...I'll confess when the moment is right."

"Okay. I wish you luck!" Jin smiled back.

"Anyways, I gotta head back now hyung, my mom must be waiting for me for dinner." Taehyung said, getting ready to leave.

"Okay, good night Taehy- I mean Tae." Jin said, making Taehyung chuckle.

"Good night hyung, see you tomorrow." And with that the younger man left.

-

The next morning Jin and Taehyung ran into each other while leaving for school yet again. But unlike yesterday it wasn't their worst nightmare anymore.

Taehyung and Jungkook were in the middle of their game as usual and seeing Seokjin walk out, Jungkook stiffened awaiting the silent war.

Only it never came.

"Oh hi Jin hyung, good morning! I thought you'd left already." Taehyung greeted the elder cheerfully, making Jungkook's jaw drop to the ground.

"Good morning Tae, Jungkook." Jin greeted back warmly as he locked his apartment. "And you know Jimin, he's always late. He's waiting for me at the crossing." Jin sighed.

Taehyung nodded, chuckling, "Yeah that's true...so see you at school?"

Jin smiled, "Yes of course, see you guys around." And with that he walked away.

Taehyung went back to his game, not noticing that Jungkook's eyes were as wide as saucers.

"Shall we restart? I don't remember what I held out." Taehyung pouted.

"Jin hyung?! Tae?!" Jungkook quoted, his voice reflecting his utter disbelief. "Did you both hit yourself in the heads during a fight?!"

Taehyung frowned, "That's rude, Kook. I apologized yesterday and we made up- why are you making such a big deal out of it?"

"Yeah but Tae?!" The man repeated.

"Stop repeating that will you?" Taehyung huffed, "He asked me to call him Jin hyung so I also asked him to call me Tae like everyone else."

"No one calls you 'Tae', Taehyung. Unless you count the girl in 8th grade who had a crush on you." Jungkook pointed out, pinching his nose bridge.

"What do you mean? Everyone calls me Tae!" Taehyung said defensively.

"Oh really? Can you name some of them?"

"You-"

"I always call you Taehyung or dude or bro."

"Okay fine, Bogum-"

"He calls you Taehyung too."

"Moonbyul-"

"Doofus."

"Taesoo-"

"Moron, idiot, useless pig-"

"Okay okay, Taemin-"

"Just hyung."

"Eomma?"

"Tae-bear or Taehyung-ah." Jungkook gave the other a challenging look as if daring him to take more names.

"Dad used to call me Tae." Taehyung said resolutely.

"Dude!" Jungkook said exasperatedly, "Just accept it already!"

"Okay fine! You win, I lose. Happy?" Taehyung grumbled.

"Extremely." Jungkook grinned, "But that's not the point today. Taehyung did you forget? You hate being given a nickname- you always whined to Mr. Kim to not call you that and even now you protest when Mrs. Kim calls you 'Tae-bear' affectionately."

Taehyung now looked slightly alarmed, "Fuck, Kook. Why did I ask him to call me Tae?"

"How am I supposed to know that." Jungkook shrugged before pointing out, "The more pressing matter is that you like it."

"And I like it." Taehyung accepted with a disbelieving sigh.

"Taehyung, are you sure you like-" Jungkook began to ask but Taehyung cut him off.

"God Kook! Chillax, it's not that deep, it just felt correct for him to call me Tae as he told me to call him Jin hyung!" Taehyung cut him off before glancing at his wristwatch. "Oh my look at the time- we'll be late again!" And with that he sped off, urging the other boy to follow him.

Jungkook sighed as he eyed Taehyung's hasty retreat.

That boy needed to get his priorities straight.

-

"Hi Seokjin!" Jin smiled as the ever-cheerful man or the Student Council's head greeted him. Beside him Yoongi quirked an eyebrow.

"You've decided already?"

Jin nodded, "Yeah I had help."

'Music and volunteering? That's interesting..." Hoseok remarked, observing the forms that had been handed over to him.

"Is it not good?" Jin asked, worried from the other's tone.

Hoseok blinked, "Oh sorry I didn't mean to imply that! It's just, not many people choose this combo but who knows? It might work the best for you!" Hoseok clarified. Yoongi peeked into the forms over Hobi's shoulder.

"You can play piano and guitar?"

Jin nodded again, "I've been playing them ever since I was a child- so it has been around 11 years."

"Wow. that's really impressive Seokjin!" Hoseok exclaimed and Jin couldn't explain the rush of relief he felt after seeing the shorter man slightly impressed as well.

"By the way Seokjin- if you're joining Yoon's club, I should warn you that he might come off as rude and cold but he's not that bad from inside." Hoseok said in a borderline fond tone.

Yoongi rolled his eyes, "Geez thanks Hobi." The other stuck his tongue out.

Jin chuckled, "Yeah Tae told me the same thing."

"Tae? As is Kim Taehyung from the photography club?" Hoseok asked abruptly.

"Uh-yeah...? You guys know him?" Jin asked, confused.

"We used to be friends." Yoongi said curtly and Hoseok reprimanded him.

"We still are...but we don't have much contact these days." He sent a warning glare towards Yoongi.

Jin felt as if he was trespassing on something personal, so he took his leave in order to give the duo the space they needed at the moment.

"Um okay so...I'll take my leave now, see you guys around! Thank you for helping me so much!" He thanked and all but bolted from there.

He started thinking yet again about the turn of events...he recalled the melancholy expression on Taehyung's face when he was speaking about Yoongi.

And today...

Jin shook his head mentally.

'It's not my place to interfere.' He concluded.

If the younger one wanted to confide in him he would.

-

"Excuse me, Ms. Song." Jimin called out, raising his hands up. "Our teacher was saying something about the art exhibition the other day. I was wondering if you could elaborate about that."

The pink haired boy was currently seated at usual seat beside Jin and for a change, Jungkook and Taehyung were seated behind them.

Ms. Song chuckled sheepishly, "Ah about that Jimin....the art exhibition has been cancelled."

"What?? Why?! It seemed so interesting!" Jimin exclaimed.

Taehyung nudged Jin, "What exhibition is he talking about?"

"Our homeroom teacher was telling us about some art exhibition in which we had to recreate a popular piece of art in our style." Jin whispered back and Taehyung and Jungkook both nodded, taking in the newfound information.

"I see..."

The trio focused back on the ongoing conversation between Jimin and Ms. Song.

"...I know, right? I had the same reaction when they cancelled it." Ms. Song was saying.

"But why??"

"Oh I don't know, they were saying something about bringing the Haunted House Fest back this year-"

"What?!" Both Jimin and Jin jumped as Taehyung and Jungkook shot up with an overjoyed shout.

"We're going to do Haunted House again?!" Jungkook said extremely excited.

"Oops, you guys weren't supposed to know yet ... .whatever you didn't hear it from me."

"We last did it 3 years ago! I missed it so freaking much!!" Taehyung added, sharing Jungkook's enthusiasm.

Ms. Song gave them a stink eye, "The art exhibition was also just as interesting if not more." She huffed.

"Ugh! Haunted House just means loads of work." Jimin whined.

"I'm confused- a literal Haunted House?!" Jin managed to ask amongst all the commotion that had erupted in the class.

"Omg yes Jin hyung- I'll tell you all about it during the recess!" Taehyung said in a rush as he bolted off to his classmates to celebrate the news.

"Honestly guys...how insensitive..." Ms. Song muttered as she settled back on her desk, not bothering to manage the tittering classroom.

-

"Hyung- The Haunted House is a literal feast!!" Taehyung exploded over the cafeteria table. "You decorate the entire school, do cosplays, spooky sets, haunted makeovers and what not!!" The younger man continued.

"It's just a load of mess, honestly." Jimin grumbled, biting down on his sandwich.

"Why are you so against Jimin hyung? Had a bad experience?" Jungkook teased the cherry haired boy.

Jimin was saved from answering as Jin chose to speak up, "I don't know about the others but I'm not a big fan of anything haunted..."

"Jin hyung, when you know that the person scaring the living daylights of a random person is your friend- you're bound to get a good laugh." Taehyung said sincerely with a smile, "Imagine me dressed as a vampire emitting wild noises to scare a bratty child- won't you laugh?"

"I guess I never thought about it in that way." Jin finally grinned, his caramel eyes lighting up with the same mischief reflecting in Taehyung's and Jungkook's eyes.

Jimin rolled his eyes, "Not you too."

"Did I just hear someone mentioning Haunted House?" The group turned around as Moonbyul, Bogum and the younger twins joined their table.

"Don't tell me it's the same Haunted House that caused such a ruckus a few years back-" Taesoo asked as she settled down next to her brother, the rest of the people too, settling around the table.

"See? She agrees it caused such a ruckus-" Jimin jumped in at once.

"- which was so cool." Taesoo finished and shot the other a confused look.

"Jimin, no one's on your side- just accept it at this point." Jin consoled the other.

"Whatever." Jimin rolled his eyes for the nth time as he focused on his lunch.

"Um- not trying to be rude but I don't think I've seen you around before." Taemin commented, looking at Jin.

"Yeah, I'm a new student... I just joined a few weeks ago. I'm Kim Seokjin, and I assume you're Tae's younger siblings?"

Jungkook sighed as he was met with 4 confused glances at the unheard nickname.

"Y-yeah, I'm Kim Taemin and this is my twin sister Kim Taesoo, we are in 8th grade currently. Really nice to meet you." Taemin introduced, being the quickest to overcome the initial communal shock.

"Really nice to meet you as well."

Taehyung frowned, "How come you guys never saw him? He's literally our neighbour!"

"What?"

"Nice. You're really handsome." Taesoo grinned, making Jin fumble as his ears reddened.

"T-Thank you?"

"Soo, stop being so rude!" Taehyung scolded his sister.

"Complimenting someone is considered rude now?" Taesoo exclaimed, before surrendering under her brother's glare, "I'm sorry if that made you feel uncomfortable, I was just teasing, really." She pouted.

Jin shook his head, "I was not uncomfortable, just shocked. And Tae you didn't need to scold her, she was just complimenting me!"

Jungkook didn't even bother to look at the questioning glances thrown towards him yet again.

"Anyways to answer your initial question hyung- we leave school an hour before you guys do, given our practices and return very late due to the tuitions and what not." Taemin explained. "So we really had no idea about who our new neighbour was."

"Oh it's fine you guys, stop sounding so guilty! You two are honestly so adorable!" Jin laughed.

Taehyung rolled his eyes in annoyance as Taesoo passed him a smug glance.

"Coming back to the initial topic..." Moonbyul cleared her throat after the unexpected little family union. "We've got to decide who's dressing up as whom before all the good ones get taken!"

"I call dibs on Frankenstein monster!"

"I'll be the grinch."

"Ew Jungkook hyung. I'll be Medusa!"

"You look like one already." Taemin's laughter turned into a grimace as Taesoo kicked his shin under the table.

"I'll be the purple teletubby!"

"Eh?"

"What? Don't be so judgemental." Moonbyul said defensively.

"Jimin-ssi what about you?" Jungkook teased the man again.

"Hmph!"

-

"Yes eomma I'm settling well here." Jin spoke into the phone as he freshened up after school and tidied his place.

His phone was tucked between his ear and shoulder as chucked his school uniform in the washing machine.

"Did you make any friends other than Chim?" His mother asked, the rhythmic chopping sound from the other side told Jin that his mom was in the middle of making lunch.

"Yeah a few, one of them is my neighbour actually...studies in a grade lower than me." He said and looked at the time with a frown, "Is it not too late for you to be making lunch now?"

He heard his mother chuckle, "Nothing escapes you, Jinnie." Mrs. Kim let out a sigh, "You know your uncle came over today and got all of us busy on the farms. But forget about them- tell me how's your school treating you? And your new friends?"

"The school is just fine....they give a lot of homework but that's normal, I guess. My friends are fine too, a bit on the crazier side but nothing too bad- Oh wait I forgot to tell you apparently my school is conducting a Haunted House? I haven't really heard about them being held in schools before..."

"Oh they are? My school did that once in my 11th grade too- it was fun but messy." His mom replied, her voice excited.

"Yeah, my friends told me the same thing. Jimin was highly against this though." Jin said but frowned as he heard his mother giggle.

"Don't you know the reason why he's against it?" She was still giggling.

"No...what is it mom??" Jin asked, feeling curious now.

"Oh, I don't know if I should say it..." His mother's reluctant voice egged him further.

"Eomma please tell me! I promise I won't breathe it to a single soul." Jin persisted, extremely curious now.

"I know you won't but Jimin's mom had told me to not tell this to anyone as it was a pretty embarrassing moment...."

"So you won't tell me?"

"Ughhh fine I'll tell you! But you'll not tell this to anyone okay Jin-ah? I'm trusting you." His mother warned before lowly speaking, "Jimin..he uh had wet his pants after a particularly scary encounter."

There was a moment of silence before Jin burst out laughing.

"WHAT?!"

Laughing was an understatement- he was rolling with guffaws.

"See this is the reason I wasn't willing to tell you." His mother huffed.

"I'm sorry, I'm-" Jin gasped, struggling for air as he wiped his tears, "That shortie used to tease me for being such a scaredy cat when in reality he's much more pathetic than me."

"Okay okay enough on this- I felt really bad for him, I shouldn't have brought this up." His mother said, her voice remorseful.

"Sorry mom, I'll stop for real now." Jin said as he sobered up. "Let me change the topic- Are the strawberries growing fine?"

"Oh wonderful actually, the way your dad and uncle are engrossed in it, it doesn't seem like a side business anymore....you should've seen them today, rolled in dirt and muck, giggling like little children- no one would say that they own a multinational company." Mrs. Kim said, her voice fond.

"You know that's how they are mom, nothing can change them." Jin said laughing a little, "Did hyung call?"

"He did a few days back, said he was busy with some company stuff- you know Jinnie ever since you went I'm only surrounded with boring men who know nothing else but business." Jin could practically hear the pout in her voice.

"Weren't you the one so eager to send me away?" Jin teased, settling on the couch.

"Don't be stupid- you were the one who wanted to experience city life." His mother grumbled.

"It was necessary in order to adjust in college and explore my options better." Jin said and sighed, "Though I really miss you all."

"Oh my baby, we miss you too...and I am not allowed to say this but I feel like your dad's gonna take a week off in order for us to visit you! You should see the way he pretends to not miss you when in reality he's dying inside." His mother said, giggling.

"Dad's gonna take a week off?! Wow, when was the last time he did that?" Jin's eyes widened at the new piece of information.

"Don't ask me, I've forgotten, honestly." His mother said and Jin imagined her rolling her eyes.

"Anyways I gotta hang up now, or your father and uncle would've to eat burnt lunch today....though I ought to give them burnt food for wasting so much of my time." His mother grumbled.

Jin laughed a little, "Come on mom, they worked hard for growing strawberries."

"Yeah yeah, always take your father's side don't you? At least I've got Namjoon, he's the only one who's not bothered about the strawberry farms." His mother sighed.

"Hyung is just butt-hurt as dad doesn't allow him to enter the farms thanks to his destructive abilities." The boy snorted, earning a disapproving tch from his mother.

"How rude, Jinnie. But no joke-, I need to go now, I'll call you again later." His mother bid him bye before hanging up.

Jin sighed as he leant back on his eyes, closing in his eyes.

A few giggles slipped from his mouth as he recalled the incident with Jimin.

Then a fear struck him- What if something like that happens with him too this year??

Jin hyung, when you know that the person scaring the living daylights of a random person is your friend- you're bound to get a good laugh.

Taehyung's words resonated in his mind and he calmed down again.

He was right.

Everything was just going to be fine.

Chapter Text

"Jin hyung?" Jin jumped at the sudden mention of his name. He looked back from where he was seated on the ground, hugging his knees on the terrace.

"Tae? What are you doing here? It's late." The older man asked, confused.

"I could ask you the same thing..." The younger said as he slowly settled next to Jin. "I often come up here, late at night....it's peaceful."

Jin smiled, agreeing with him. "It is, isn't it? My mom had taught me a few constellations...I was just trying to trace them." He said, answering the initial question.

"But this city is so polluted that I can't see them properly." He continued, pouting slightly.

Taehyung chuckled at that, "I'm actually surprised that you can still see some... Hyung, I've never asked this but- what was your life like in the countryside?" He asked after a while.

Jin pondered about the question as he sat cross-legged, staring up at the stars.

"Hmm...it was definitely not this polluted... My dad and uncle own a strawberry farm, it is pretty big so I used to spend time there, harvesting strawberries or fishing in the nearby lakes with my friends....it was more peaceful I guess..."

"Why did you come here then?" Taehyung asked, "Not that I'm complaining." He added hurriedly.

Jin laughed, slight breeze ruffling his tresses, "My dad wanted me to join the family business, but I wanted to do something else...so hyung proposed the idea of me coming here in order to explore more ideas and my family agreed though a bit reluctantly."

"Strawberry business?"

"Nah that's just my dad's hobby...my dad.. he's the owner of JunJin Enterprises." Jin revealed, his voice turning quieter towards the end.

A moment of silence then-

"What?!" Taehyung exploded, "You're the heir of JunJin Enterprises?! Hyung you're loaded!"

"And wait a minute, the name-"

Jin nodded, interrupting him, "Namjoon- my older brother and Seokjin."

"Wow." Taehyung breathed out. "Hyung, wow." He repeated, completely stunned at the revelation.

Jin looked hesitant now, "Does- Does this change anything, Taehyung?"

Taehyung shot up, immediately denying it, "Hyung no- I'm sorry if I implied otherwise...you being a chaebol son doesn't change anything- if anything it makes me adore you more."

"And I told you to call me Tae." He reminded the other with a wink.

Jin giggled, nodding, "Sorry. Sooo what are you doing here...you look" mournful "kinda sad." He said instead.

Taehyung sighed and gazed up at the stars, "You're right, they're hardly visible anymore."

"It was my dad's 2nd death anniversary...and at the cemetery a priest told me that all the loved ones that we have lost become a star and look over us during the day's darkest times...it's cliche and I shrugged it off at that time and now...the stars are hardly visible..." Taehyung explained, the slight breeze helped dry the tears that formed in his eyes.

Jin gulped, realising the other's vulnerable state. "The stars are still there though...even if they're not visible. From my hometown you can see every star- maybe you should shift there with me." He said without thinking what he was implying.

"O-Oh I didn't mean tha-" He fumbled as realisation hit him like a truck, his ears reddening.

Taehyung laughed, "It's okay hyung I get it. I get that-" he continued with a teasing glint in his eyes, " -you can't comfort a sad person."

"Come on- that's so rude! I'm trying my best here!" Jin huffed, and Taehyung laughed harder at that, throwing his arm over the other's broad shoulders and brought him closer.

"You know that I'm just joking, hyung. Thank you for listening to me." He said in a sincere voice, "I mean it."

"If you don't mind answering...how did your dad... you know-"

"Cancer. III stage...we caught on very late." He sighed, his breath tickling Jin's face.

"That's terrible...I'm so sorry." Jin said quietly.

"You don't need to be...it was a long time ago."

Taehyung removed his arm from the other's shoulder as he felt the other shuffling to stand up.

"Join me?" Jin offered as he leant against the ledge.

The wind was picking up pace as Taehyung joined him.

"What a movie-like scene." Taehyung whistled. "Would be a great capture for my photography club."

"Oh that reminds me- you know where the volunteering club is taking us?" Taehyung asked.

"Where?"

"Animal NGO...I specially requested it, cuz you weren't there with us last time."

Jin's eyes lit up with a smile, "Realy?! I can't wait for this weekend!"

Jin then muttered something that Taehyung couldn't catch.

"What was that, hyung?"

"You made one of my bad days special."

-

"I know it's not an official club meeting but I just wanted to hear you play the instruments once- just to know where you stand. I hope that's fine." Yoongi spoke as he led Jin to the music room.

The taller man nodded, "Yes of course it's fine, I told you I have a free period right now."

"Do you want me to play something traditional?" Jin asked as he settled in front of the piano.

"Whatever you're comfortable with." Yoongi shrugged and sat down on a chair beside the piano.

Jin thought about it for a while before deciding to play 'La Campanella'.

"That was- excellent if not mind blowing." Yoongi praised, genuinely surprised after he had finished playingthe classical piece.

Jin blushed at the compliment, "Thank you, Yoongi....my skills are a bit rusty though, it's been a while since my piano lessons and I don't have a piano at home."

"Do you think you can arrange it somewhere for cheap?" The Student Head asked.

Jin hummed, pondering, "I'll see, I'll buy a new one if I can."

"Wouldn't that be very expensive?" Yoongi raised his eyebrows.

Jin chuckled, "Don't worry, I'll figure something out."

Yoongi passed him a look before shrugging, "Whatever suits you the best."

"You can go now, enjoy your rare free period."

"Um Yoongi?" Jin asked suddenly, making the other man stop and turn towards him.

"The other day you said that you and Taehyung used to be friends...? I'm sorry if I'm overstepping my boundaries but can you tell me what happened...why do you guys not speak to each other anymore?" Jin finished, not able to look at the shorter man who'd gone grim.

"Why do you need to know?" He demanded, his voice surprisingly defensive. "Did Taehyung say something to you-"

"No, Yoongi, he didn't say anything!...I couldn't even bring myself to ask him since this obviously something very personal and serious amongst you guys..." He trailed, chiding himself mentally for even brining up this topic.

"Are you his boyfriend?" Yoongi asked abruptly.

Jin felt his face turning tomato at the sudden question. "W-What?! Absolutely not!! Why would you even think that?!" He exclaimed, fumbling with embarrassment.

"Sorry. I thought you'd be since you're the only one who calls him 'Tae'....he hates being called by a nickname."

"What?" Jin asked, his brows scrunching in confusion, "But he himself asked me to call him Tae!"

Yoongi nodded, "That's why I thought you guys were dating."

"Anyways to answer your initial question- me, Hobi and Taehyung were childhood best friends. Don't ask me how- we just stumbled upon each other while playing in a park and had been inseparable since then." Yoongi started, Jin taking this all in with rapt attention.

"It all changed when Mr. Kim passed away...Taehyung- he couldn't, he wasn't able to get over his dad's death, not that anyone of us expected him to...he was extremely close with his dad. But things took a different path when Taehyung slowly distanced himself from us...."

"You see our school has different branches for elementary school and high school. So me and Hoseok had to join the high school while Taehyung remained back in elementary school for another year...and that's when he got close with Jungkook...and when he joined the high school after a whole year of no contact, we went from best friends to mere acquaintances. Our friendship withered to just nods and small smiles while passing each other in the corridor."

Yoongi finished with a sigh, "It's not like me and Hobi don't understand what he had to go through- we were all kids when it all happened but if we want to restore our friendship, Taehyung needs to be the to step up and....I don't think he intends to do that anytime soon."

"I shouldn't have brought this up. I'm sorry." Jin apologised.

"Yes you shouldn't have. But I'm glad you did. It shows that you care for Taehyung."

"But what if Taehyung's the one waiting for you two to make a move?" Jin asked.

"Could be possible but it's way too late now...me and Hobi are graduating this year and will go in different ways while Taehyung will remain here- history will just repeat itself."

"Yeah but as you said- you guys were kids back then, surely you all are much more mature now!" Jin pressed.

"Friendships that need to be forced are not worth it, Seokjin." Yoongi said with finality.

"Giving up on it isn't the solution either." Jin refused to back down.

Yoongi smiled, "I'm honestly very relieved to see that Taehyung at least surrounded himself with good people." he said, ignoring the small thud that rang outside the room given that many students were bustling in the corridors due to end of the current period.

And with that, the duo's free time also came to an end.

"I'll see you around, Seokjin." Yoongi said , before walking out of the classroom.

Jin reflected on the conversation on his walk back to his classroom.

"What took you so long? I thought you were just going to play a piece for Yoongi." Jimin enquired as Jin settled on his usual seat beside him.

"Something came up, we got caught up." Jin answered.

"Taehyung was looking for you." Jimin informed the other.

Jin nodded absentmindedly, his head still swimming with the new information he'd learnt that day.

"Guys, Mrs. Hyeri is here!"

-

"Jungkook? Can we talk for a second?" Jungkook looked up from where he was completing his assignment in the library to see a slightly queasy Jimin looking back at him expectantly.

"Uh sure Jimin hyung- what is it?" The younger one asked as Jimin sat opposite to him.

"Well I'll try not to beat around the bush- but Jin and Taehyung have grown close haven't they?" He asked, trying to sound nonchalant.

Jungkook agreed immediately, his shoulders slumping from relief, "Yes absolutely, I thought I was the only crazy one."

Jimin sighed and smiled, "Look I don't mean to sound pessimistic or anything but they were enemies one day, mostly from Taehyung's side-"

"- and best friends from the other day, again mostly from Taehyung's side." Jungkook finished for the other.

"Right." Jimin nodded, "It all happened awfully fast." He remarked.

"And it's still continuing head strong- Taehyung told me that they were up talking at the terrace till 11 at night! I mean I was supposed to be his best friend!" Jungkook exclaimed, then lowered his voice as the librarian shot him a glare.

Jimin giggled, "At first I thought it was only me- but it's so obvious now!"

"What's obvious?"

"That they like each other!" It was Jimin's turn to receive the glare from the older lady.

Jungkook blinked back at him, dumbfoundedly, "T-They do?"

"Of course!" Jimin continued with same enthusiasm but in a lower tone, "Don't you remember the time it was raining and-"

"-Taehyung gave his coat to Jin for him to cover his head not minding the fact that he got drenched instead..." Jungkook again finished for the other.

"It was so cute and borderline romantic if I may add!" Jimin giggled again.

'But it doesn't make sense!' Jungkook screamed internally, 'Taehyung likes you!'

"And don't forget about the way Jin was awake making macaroons for Taehyung till 12 at night just because Taehyung had told him he liked them and wanted to have them again! He never makes anything for me like that!" Jimin pointed out, a bit hurt.

Jungkook took a deep breath, trying to soothe his ragged nerves, "Okay- so, maybe they like each other but....what now? What do we do with this piece of information?"

Jimin rolled his eyes, "What do you mean? We set them up together!They'll make one hell of a visual couple don't you think?"

"W-what? Set them up?!"

Jimin gave him a pointed look, "You're awfully dense for someone this cute."

"At least I'm cute?" Jungkook smiled unsurely.

-

"Oh there you are!" Jin exclaimed as he spotted the person he was looking for. "You said we'd go to explore the market place today, did you forget?" Jin continued and Taehyung looked from where he was seated on a school bench in a secluded area of the school ground.

"Tae...are you okay?" Jin asked as he took in the forlorn expression reflecting on the other's face.

"Hyung, do you think any less of me...? After listening to Yoongi hyung?" The younger one asked in a tiny voice, not looking up at the other one.

"Y-You heard?!" Jin asked, his eyes wide at the confession.

Taehyung nodded, "I'm sorry...I was looking for you and Jimin hyung said that you'd gone to the music room..."

"Tae..." Jin tried, but Taehyung interrupted him.

"I-I never realised that I was the one who ruined the friendship, I j-just thought that we all just grew up!" Taehyung said in utter distress, and Jin realised the other one was trying to hold back tears.

He pulled the younger one in a hug as best he could while sitting and ran his fingers through the other's silken hair.

"Shhh...it's okay you don't have to hold it in, Tae...let it all out." He comforted the other as he felt tears dampening his school blazer as Taehyung sobbed against him.

"I -lost e-everyone and it's a-all my fault!" He sobbed, "Dad, Yoon hyung, Hobi hyung- everyone!"

"Taehyung-"

"I'm such a horrible person hyung, what if I hurt you and you drift away too, Kook too- how do I mend this hyung?!"

Jin felt his own eyes tear up at that, his fingers still caressing the other.

"You're such an idiot, Taehyung." Jin grumbled after some time as Taehyung's sobbed died down.

Taehyung pulled away with a sniffle, "I know-"

"No, you don't, Tae!" Jin burst out, startling the grieving man, "Did you forget the way we both got off on the worst foot possible? Why do you think we were able to reconcile and become friends, Taehyung?! Why do you think you've become my comfort person even though I met you merely 4 weeks ago?! Why do you think that after my family, you are the person I seek out the most?! You think it all happened just like that?!"

"Answer me, Kim Taehyung!" Jin demanded, leaving Taehyung in a state of utter shock and confusion.

"B-Because I-I'm nice?" Taehyung tired, his voice weak and unsure.

Jin looked away and took a deep breath, "Seriously, why do I even put up with you?" He grumbled.

"Hey!" Taehyung pouted.

"Your dad, Yoongi, Hobi- were not your fault Taehyung, in fact it was nobody's fault." Jin started, his voice way more calm, "They wanted to give you space and you just wanted to move on from your dad's death...I can't even imagine losing someone like that and Tae-" He looked into the other's eyes, "-you were a mere child back then. Maybe you could've handled the situation differently, but why would you need to? Everyone has their own pace and you don't need to change yours for anyone."

"And you heard what Yoongi said, they aren't mad at you. They understand what you went through and just want you to be the one to decide what you want to do next." Jin finished, with a smile.

Taehyung couldn't look away from the way Jin's eyes turned from caramel to honey gold as sunlight hit his face.

'He looks so handsome in the sun.'

He chided himself for thinking about such things when the older one was being so considerate and caring.

"T-Thank you, hyung." He whispered and snapped his eyes away from the other's face before he got caught blatantly staring.

He took out his handkerchief and cleared his face up, fumbling with a stray thread he asked, "Do you think they'll take me back? If I apologise?"

Jin chuckled, "You should've seen Yoongi's face, Tae- they'd accept you with open arms."

-

To say Jungkook was in a fix would be an understatement.

His ears were still buzzing, trying to wrap around the the fact that-

Jimin was trying to set Taehyung and Jin hyung, blissfully unaware of Taehyung's crush on him for the past- honestly Jungkook doesn't even remember how many years it has been.

He sighed for the nth time from where he was stuck solving hard as fuck maths sums, while his mind was a jumbled mess.

"Why did I ever believe that this shit will get through me?" He muttered in frustration when he found how vastly his answer differed from the one given in the book.

Jungkook groaned out, snapping his book shut. He picked up his phone and thought of messaging his initial source of distraction.

To Bro:

Hey you home? Did you solve the integrals that our teacher gave today?

He received a reply a minute later.

From Bro:

I'm at the central market with Jin hyung.

And lol no, Jin hyung says he'll help me solve them once we get back home...

To Bro:

Oh right...send me the photos when you're done solving.

Also, what are you doing at the central market alone with Jin hyung?

From Bro:

I promised hyung to show him around, get him more familiar with his surroundings.

You okay? You seem kinda tense?

Jungkook pinched his nose bridge at that as he tried to ignore how awfully it looked like a date.

This idiot wasn't making his dilemma any easier for him.

To Bro:

Yeah Yeah I'm fine, you enjoy your day.

From Bro:

Okayyyy ;D

'Maybe I should just let time do its own thing...'

Jungkook concluded as he kept his phone away. He opened his maths book and stared at the sums again. .

"Yup, I'm definitely dropping this subject next year."

-

"Who are you texting?" Jin asked as he saw Taehyung close his phone.

Taehyung smiled and shook his head, "Just Jungkook- he wanted help with the maths homework, so I'll send him the photos when we're done solving."

Jin nodded, "Oh right. What's the time? We need to go back and finish the homework on time." He checked the time.

"What's the rush, hyung? The homework is due on Monday! We have a good three days before the submission date." Taehyung exclaimed as the duo navigated through the shops.

"I have to go and look for a piano tomorrow for my music club and the day after that we have our NGO trip ...we won't get much time." Jin said.

"We'd still have Sunday." Taehyung pointed out. "And besides for the piano- you can just ask Mrs. Jang about it!"

"I don't know, she's my landlady...and people often don't want to part ways from their beloved instruments."

Taehyung nodded at that, "True... or maybe you can just buy a piano since you know-" he leaned closer to whisper, "-you're a chaebol's son."

Jin rolled his eyes, "Just because my dad's rich, doesn't mean I wouldn't opt for the more reasonable option."

Taehyung laughed, "Just pulling your leg, hyung."

"So what are we looking for exactly?" Jin said, his eyes raking the various shops lining the busy roads.

"Hmm.... I don't know, but I'm hungry, let's eat? I know a good shop."

Soon enough the duo entered a small cozy shop, Taehyung being friends with the old owner of the shop.

"Taehyung! You've come here after such a long time!" The old grandma complained as she looked at the newcomers.

"Hi, halmeoni...I know it's been long. I was busy with all the school stuff." Taehyung pouted.

"Well you gotta study hard, child! Oh and who's this handsome person? Your friend?" Jin flushed at the unexpected compliment.

"T-Thank you, halmeoni. I'm Kim Seokjin." He bowed to the elder.

Taehyung pulled Jin closer by his shoulders, "He's my new neighbour and of course my very good friend!"

Halmeoni chuckled and beckoned them over to the counter.

They gave their orders at the counter and chose a place by the window to sit.

"Feels nice doesn't it? My dad and I used to come here a lot." Taehyung said as he looked out from the huge window beside them.

Jin hummed as he took in the new surroundings.

"Seems like we're on a date." Taehyung commented, making Jin red in the face as he choked on the water he was sipping on.

"W-What?!" He spluttered, his eyes wide and cheeks burning crimson from embarrassment.

"Geez, hyung I was joking." Taehyung laughed as he passed the other a napkin.

Jin dabbed the excess water off his face, subtly patting his crimson cheeks.

"Tae, how much of our conversation did you overhear in the morning?" Jin asked, as he accepted the napkin. He didn't need anyone to know that his ears were on fire.

"Just until the part when Yoongi hyung was talking about our past....why?" Taehyung asked.

"Nothing, just general knowledge." The other one muttered, grateful that the younger hadn't heard Yoongi asking whether they were boyfriends.

"....Are you perhaps asking whether I heard Yoongi hyung asking whether we were boyfriends?" Taehyung spoke, a sly grin decorated on his face.

Jin was glad he wasn't drinking anything at the moment or he'd have choked for the second time that day.

His utter incredulous expression would have been evident on his face as Taehyung burst out laughing.

"Why do you seem so horrified, hyung? Don't tell me you're that displeased by the idea of being my boyfriend?" He further teased, unaware of the other's inner turmoil.

"I-" Jin wasn't sure what he was intending to say, for his voice was drowned with the sound of his heart beating so hard.

He was saved from answering as a young girl came to place their orders on the table. They thanked her and went back to their conversation.

"Reax I was just joking. I like Jimin hyung, did you forget?" Taehyung said as he dug in his food.

"Right." Jin finally muttered, as he spooned his food. He couldn't understand why he'd suddenly lost his appetite.

And if Taehyung noticed the unnerving silence on their way back, he didn't comment on it.

-

"Did you forget to send me the homework yesterday?" Jungkook asked as the duo settled in class.

Taehyung let out a sigh, "No...I didn't do it."

"Jin hyung didn't help?" The bunny inquired.

Taehyung shook his head, "He's been avoiding me since yesterday for some reason....you know he left for school half an hour earlier so that he wouldn't have to encounter me....and is ignoring my texts."

"Did you say something to him?"

Taehyung shook his head again, "No! We were just wandering around in the marketplace yesterday then we went to eat something at my favourite place and since then he's been quiet...." He said, with frustration lining his voice.

"At first I thought the food didn't settle well with him but now...I'm not sure..."

"You went to have food with him? Just the two of you?" Jungkook asked.

'Like a date?'  

Taehyung waved his hands, "That's completely not the point. The thing is, I really like the restaurant I took him to...if he didn't like the food he could've just told me...I would've not felt bad or anything?"

"So he just suddenly decided to not talk to you anymore?" Jungkook asked, totally confused by the sudden turn of events.

"Yeah...and it's not like him at all! I'm sure it was something I did or said but I can't seem to recall anything!" Taehyung hit his head lightly on his desk.

"Maybe confront him during recess?" Jungkook suggested.

"He would feel cornered, Kook and the last thing I want to do is make him any more uncomfortable." Taehyung sighed, not looking up from his desk.

"Why are you so concerned about him? I don't mean to sound rude but it's hardly been a month since he's been your friend." Jungkook pointed out, making Taehyung frown and look up.

"What do you mean by that? So just because he's new, I should treat him like shit?"

Jungkook denied him at once, "What I meant is that you're investing way too much in this friendship...if we think about it- how much do you actually know about him?"

"You don't need to know complete biodata of a person before you befriend them. All I know is that he's helped me to his best capabilities whenever I've asked for it and I'd not think twice before doing the same....he's someone I've come to care and provide for deeply." Taehyung finished, his eyes sincere and voice resolute.

Lost in his own train of thoughts, Taehyung didn't notice the way a small smile made its way into Jungkook's face.

'I can't believe that you were right, shorty.'

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

"You like Kim Taehyung."

Jin sighed, "I like Kim Taehyung."

"You're not gonna deny it? Or act shocked?" Jimin asked in a disappointed voice.

"What's the point....wouldn't change the reality." He rested his face on his palm and stared outside the classroom window.

"I even made a ppt...at least have a look at it." Jimin pouted, "I had anticipated loads of blushing, crying, hugging and other such wholesome moments."

"You need to stop reading those hideous fanfics, Chim."

Jimin let out a deflated sigh and plopped down beside Jin, "So what are you going to do about it?"

"Nothing." Jin said out flatly. 'Not when I know that he has a terrible crush on you.' He added mentally bitterly.

"Aha! There's the drama I was waiting for!" Jimin announced in a smug voice.

Jin gave him a look, "What? Made a ppt for this as well?"

Jimin frowned, "No..."

"Maybe then you could have convinced me." Jin said dryly.

"But why won't you confess to him, Jin? I'm pretty sure he likes you too! And you are so close these days as well!" Jimin argued, not understanding his cousin's hesitance.

"I will be going home this weekend." Jin said abruptly. "It's my parents' anniversary."

Jimin nodded slowly. "But what about Kim Tae-"

"Jimin-ah, drop it." Jin sighed, tiredly "You said we were close right? So trust me when I say this- Taehyung doesn't like me... he uh he likes someone else."

"Who?" Jimin prodded.

'You!'

"I don't remember the name...it's someone from his class." Jin lied.

"Are you sure?"

"Hey, Park, Kim! What would you be dressing for at the Haunted House?" Jackson, their classmate, called out suddenly.

JImin rolled his eyes, "Can you guys shut up about the Haunted House already?!"

"I agree, Mr. Park. The Haunted House is still good four months away whereas your mid-term examinations are merely a month away- so you guys better stop dawdling around and start paying attention." Mrs. Hyeri announced, startling her class as she walked in swiftly in the tittering room.

The class muttered a displeased apology in reply and settled down in order to start studying.

"I don't get Accounts." Jimin grumbled in frustration, the earlier conversation forgotten to Jin's relief. "Like is this even supposed to be taught to 17 years old?!"

Jin sighed and patted his back, "It's okay, none of us get it."

(A/N I don't know about Korean subjects so I'm just gonna incorporate my experiences :'D)

-

Jungkook quickly made his way towards the dance club before his friends could realise and question his sudden absence.

'Especially Taehyung.'

He thought as he walked inside the Performance Hall of their school and tried to spot a familiar mop of pink hair.

"Jimin hyung!" Jungkook called out as he spotted the other presumably having a break, settled beside the main stage with a water bottle cradled in his arms.

The bunny felt kinda bad when he saw the other pass him a tired smile as he walked towards him.

"Hey! Any updates?" Jimin smiled as stood in front of the younger one.

Jungkook nodded, "Taehyung likes Jin hyung but he doesn't know it yet."

"Jin likes Taehyung but doesn't want to confess." Jimin sighed.

Jungkook frowned, "But why?"

Jimin gave him a look, "The same reason as to why Taehyung doesn't know it yet."

"Fair enough...so? What is our next step?" The younger one asked.

Jimin shrugged, "Does Taehyung have a crush on someone from your class? Jin said so."

"Uh nope. Definitely not someone from our class....maybe he misunderstood?"

"And even you don't know who that person is?" The shorter one asked.

"I'm not allowed to reveal." The bunny replied simply.

"Ugh once I find this person- I swear he/she will always have to eat soggy cereals for the rest of their life!!" Jimin grumbled. Jungkook bit his lips in order to not laugh.

"Ah but it's not their fault right, hyung? It's Taehyung's fault for not being able to see something so obvious and clear."

Jimin nodded, "Well whatever....this is so frustrating- why don't people just confess and move on? And on top of it, Jin's going to his hometown this weekend."

Jungkook's eyes widened, "But they have their volunteering club this weekend, Taehyung specially asked the club president to take them to Animal NGO cuz he wanted Jin hyung to experience it with him!"

"How romantic." Jimin giggled but then focused back, "That's very sad...Taehyung's efforts will be wasted."

"Can't you stop him from going?" Jungkkok pressed, making Jimin sigh.

"It's his parents' anniversary, Jungkook- I can't really stop him from going, can I?"

Jungkook reluctantly nodded, "Taehyung is not going to take this news kindly."

Changing the topic he further asked, "What are you guys preparing for? Any competition coming up?" He pointed towards the ongoing decoration and practices taking place in the busy hall.

"Yeah, the dance club has an inter-school competition while the drama club is preparing for their English week's play." Jimin informed the other.

"I see...by the way hyung, I never got the chance to tell you- but I really love your dance ... .it's really beautiful." Jungkook complimented, not noticing the blush that painted the shorter one's face.

"T-thank you...I'm glad you liked it."

"I really mean it hyung- I saw you performing once during the annual fest and it has me enraptured since then."

Turning to the other he continued, "Anyways, I gotta go now. All the very best for your competition!"

And with that Jungkook left the Hall not minding the blushing storm of a person that he had left behind.

-

"What do you mean that you're going away for the weekend?" Taehyung burst out as soon as he spotted the person he was looking for.

Jin looked up, startled from where he was doing his work, sitting on grass, against a tree on the school ground.

"I-I was about to tell you...how did you get to know?" He asked, his voice confused as he saw the other drop his bag beside him.

"Jungkook. Who got to know it from Jimin hyung." Taehyung replied, hurt flashing in his dark orbs, "I understand it is your parents' anniversary hyung, but you could've told me this earlier."

"I'm so sorry Tae, it had completely slipped my mind." Jin said, his voice apologetic, "But there's one good news for you- Jimin said that he'd be happy to be my substitute!" He hoped his voice sounded cheerful enough,

It took a minute for Taehyung to understand why it was good news for him according to the other one.

"O-Oh he agreed? That's good....I guess?"

Jin frowned, "Why do you sound so confused- shouldn't you be happy that you'll get so much time to spend with your long-time crush? Who knows maybe you'll be able to finally confess!" Jin cheered him on.

Taehyung nodded, "Right. Thanks hyung."

'Why don't I feel happy?'

'Jin is right...I should be elated right?'

'But then why do I feel so uneasy?'

"Hyung, I also wanted to talk about yesterday." Taehyung began after breaking away from his train of thoughts. "Did I say something wrong? Something that made you feel uncomfortable? You went awfully quiet last night."

Jin shook his head, his heart sinking by each passing moment, "I was just feeling homesick, Tae-ah...sorry that I made you feel worried. And that's also the reason why I needed to return home for the weekend...I need to clear my mind from all this school mess."

Taehyung nodded, his eyes softening, "It's okay, hyung. I understand...I often forget that you live alone hyung- you were bound to feel homesick...I'm sorry for yelling at you earlier."

Jin smiled, "It's alright. I'm sorry too...all your efforts got wasted. I feel terrible."

"Oh and that reminds me!" Jin continued as he fished something out from his bag, "I solved the sums you asked for- I felt guilty for not keeping my promise yesterday."

Taehyung accepted the notebook mutedly, a sudden surge of emotions made it difficult for him to speak. "T-Thank you. And don't apologise, I understand."

"So both are forgiven?" Jin asked, chuckling.

"Definitely. I can never stay mad at you, hyung." Taehyung said and booped the other on the nose with his finger.

Jin wrinkled his nose and moved away.

He ruffled Taehyung's hair and stood up, brushing his pants lightly, "My class is going to begin soon, I'll see you later!

-

"I think he has definitely consumed something wrong during recess." Taehyung snapped out from his reverie,as he slowly registered Taesoo's voice.

"W-What?" He asked, almost defensively when he received three questioning glances from where he was seated for dinner with his family.

"Min has been asking you to pass him the potatoes for the last five minutes." Taesoo informed her brother.

"Don't bother now, I finished my rice." Taemin commented, pouting.

"Sorry Min-ah." Taehyung said before mentally chiding himself for zoning out that bad.

"Are you okay, Tae-bear?" Mrs. Kim asked, slight worry etched on her face.

"Yes...just school stress."

Taesoo giggled, "School stress or crush stress?"

Taehyung frowned, "What do you mean by that?"

Beside him, Taemin started giggling too. As if on cue the twins began-

"Taehyung and Seokjin sitting under a tree, K-I-S-S-I-"

"What the fuck?!"

"Taehyung! Don't curse!"

"Sorry mom, but do you hear their nonsense?!" Taehyung exclaimed as Taesoo challenged him with a look.

"Nonsense, huh? These days I hardly spot you anywhere without that handsome guy! And you've always got that stupid grin on your face which according to you is a sexy smirk but the rest of us beg to differ." His sister countered.

Mrs. Kim nodded, "True. I know what smile she's referring to- it makes you look as if you ate something really bad."

"Or constipated." Taemin piped in.

Taehyung gave his family a flabbergasted look, "Okay, rude! And secondly, Jin hyung is not my crush- it's someone else."

"Don't tell me it's Jungkook hyung." Taemin gasped and recoiled in disgust.

"Eww no!" Taehyung gagged, before finally revealing the name, "It's Park Jimin."

"That pink haired shorty?!" Taesoo gasped while Mrs. Kim looked confused.

"I don't know that guy." She said and Taehyung sighed in frustration, "Of course you don't mom-"

"Isn't he the guy who's always with Jungkook hyung? I honestly thought they were a thing themselves..." Taehyung froze as he heard Taemin mumble, "Are they not...?"

"They were whispering excitedly to each other in the library the other day before they got kicked out." Taesoo further informed.

"And also outside the dance club and Jimin hyung was actually blushing."

"Shut up, you two!" Mrs. Kim hissed, effectively shutting up the duo. "Taehyung-ah, it isn't necessary that Jimin and Jungkook have to be a thing just because they were talking." She tried to console her eldest son who'd suddenly gone radio silent.

Taehyung nodded and nobody said anything else regarding this topic as the three of them finished their dinner.

"Thank you for the food." Taehyung muttered before disposing his plate off in the sink and heading straight to his room.

'Jimin and Jungkook?'

He thought as he fell down on his bed.

'JIMIN AND JUNGKOOK?!'

He couldn't believe that he'd been so oblivious to the signs that had been glaring up at him right on his face.

Those lingered stares, brightened smiles-

"But why the hell doesn't it hurt me that much?!" He grumbled in borderline anger as he sat up in frustration.

He had been pining after that guy for almost four years and now that his best friend could potentially date his crush- shouldn't he be burning in rage and betrayal?

...Then why does he feel so calm?

Happy even?

"God what the fuck is wrong with me?!" He screamed into his pillow. 

-

Third Person's Pov

"I'm sorry for being late, hyung. I was seeing off Jin hyung." Taehyung apologised as he jogged towards Jimin.

"It's alright, Jin had messaged me that you were with him." Jimin smiled, "Shall we go then?"

Taehyung nodded and the duo made their way towards the meeting point of the volunteer club.

"Jimin? What are you doing here?" Chen, the club vice president, asked the unexpected member.

"My cousin couldn't make it so he asked me to substitute for him." Jimin said and the other nodded.

"Okay but next time please inform me or Mr. Yoon of the changes." Chen said before moving away to where the bus stood. "Come on everyone, start piling up!"

"I didn't know you were an animal lover, hyung." Taehyung commented as he felt the boundless excitement radiating off the other as they sat next to each other on the bus.

Jimin chuckled sheepishly, "Well honestly I wasn't before but one day Hoseok brought his dog to one of our dance practices and ever since then I've been obsessed...you know Jin had sugar gliders before? Both were named after food- as expected of him, but back then, I was dead scared of them."

"Jin hyung had sugar gliders? He never told me!" Taehyung exclaimed.

"Yeah but they had passed away in some accident and Jin had been really affected by that...it's no surprise that he didn't want to recall those memories." Jimin sighed softly.

"Oh...I'm sorry to hear that..." Taehyung replied, his voice forlorn. "It really hurts to lose a pet."

Jimin passed him a curious look, "Did you have any pets before Taehyung?"

The brunette nodded, his eyes downturned but a small smile fixated on his lips nonetheless, "Yeah...I had a dog named Yeontan- he was my best buddy. He passed away due to an illness." 

"That sucks...I'm really sorry to hear that." The cherry haired boy said. 

"This is getting way too gloomy for my liking." Jimin announced and fished out his earpods from the bag he was carrying. "Want to listen to some music?"

He offered and Taehyung accepted, both of them falling into a comfortable silence as gentle music flooded their ears.

-

"Enjoying yourself?" Taehyung rolled his eyes as Jin's teasing voice came from the other side of the call.

"I would've if you'd been here with me." He grumbled back into the call.

Jin rolled his eyes, "Huh, don't act like you aren't having fun with your crush merely 10 feet away from you."

Taehyung's eyes fell upon Jimin who was almost on the other side of the field, giggling and rubbing the stomach of some random puppy. "Yeah....have you reached hyung?"

"Not yet, still an hour to go." Jin pouted as they hit another long red light. "Ughh another red light!"

Taehyung laughed at that, "Poor you, hyung. What will you give your parents though? For their anniversary?"

"Uh- I'm returning home, isn't that enough?" Jin said and Taehyung heard Namjoon retort something from the other side of the call.

"Tae-ah, hyung is being mean to me."

"Even though I couldn't hear what he said, I'm rather inclined to agree with him." Taehyung replied, stifling a laugh.

"Great, you also bully me now." Jin huffed into the call, "I'll call you later Tae, all this continuous sitting has made me tired."

"Okay hyung, enjoy your day."

"You too, bye!"

"Jin hyung hung up on me." Taehyung whined as he materialised behind Jimin. He joined the pink haired boy in petting dogs and Jimin laughed at his complaints.

"You're weirdly fixated on this dog." Taehyung commented, "You've been playing with him for the past half an hour."

"He looks like Jungkook, doesn't he?" Jimin giggled, scratching the dog behind his ears, the dog nipping at his hand playfully. 

"You're weird." Taehyung scrunched his nose and Jimin laughed, resuming his petting.

The clouds moved away from the sun and at that particular moment, the warm rays fell on both Taehyung and Jimin.

Taehyung observed the way Jimin's peach hair turned golden under the bright light, his eyes scrunching into small crescents as the dog before him did some weird tricks to amuse the other.

Past Kim Taehyung's heart would've leapt out his chest with utter adoration for the person seated across him.

But current Kim Taehyung felt nothing of that sort. Nothing that out of line which would've made Jungkook palm his face at his friend's hopeless pining.

And he was hit with a shocking revelation.

Kim Taehyung didn't harbour a crush on Park Jimin anymore.

All those years of pining and fluttering hearts each time he crossed paths with the older person had come to this.

He didn't know when or how it happened....

...but it was true.

And Taehyung didn't know what to do with this information.

"Jimin hyung." He blurted out before he could stop himself. The person looked up, his smile still lingering on his rosy lips.

"Hmm?"

"Do you like Jungkook?"

Jimin's smile fell and an uncomfortable expression made its way on his face instead. The dog that apparently resembled Jungkook, bounded away as Jimin's hands slacked.

"Y-You know?" He stuttered.

"I had a hunch." Taehyung said carefully, disturbing some grass between his fingers as he sat down comfortaby on the dewy grass. "Since when? And why didn't you confess?"

"A couple of years, I guess?" Jimin sighed, "I made numerous advancements Taehyung, trust me, I'm not a person to go for subtleties but Jungkook...I don't know whether he did it intentionally or maybe he just has a thick skin." Jimin let out a small chuckle and continued,

"I have initiated conversation with him loads of times before-even asked him out to play and other stuff many times since you know we were still kids back then, earlier he used to come but after he joined the senior school- he just stopped....you know? He wanted to join the Dance Club with me when he joined senior school but then just suddenly changed his mind...I honestly don't know what went wrong." He finished, a sad look in his eyes.

Taehyung felt his stomach drop to the ground. It was around the time when they'd newly joined Senior school, he had told Jungkook about his crush on Jimin.

Fuck

"But it's fine you know...I feel like these days we're getting closer...so maybe I'll confess in the near future?" Jimin laughed at his own words, "Hopefully he doesn't change his mind again."

"Hyung, I'm sorry." Taehyung spoke up and Jimin frowned, "Why are you-"

But he was interrupted, "I had a huge crush on you, hyung. I had harboured it for as long as I can remember and it was around 9th grade that I had told Jungkook about this and that idiot started distancing himself from you regardless of how much he enjoyed your company." Taehyung revealed.

"Taehyung..."

"Don't worry I don't have a crush on you anymore." Taehyung looked up at the other with a small smile which the other reciprocated, "But I wasn't aware of the way Jungkook was distancing himself from you...I'm really sorry."

"Oh...Jungkook enjoyed my company...?" Jimin asked, his voice unsure as Taehyung's voice finally registered in his mind.

"Obviously he never told that to me outfront but his smile always brightened significantly when you were around....I tried to not notice these things but the way Jungkook was so mesmerised when he saw your performance hyung...I kid you not, for a moment I was confused as to who was the one with a crush on you." Taehyung said, his voice fond.

"Just please don't give up on him, hyung. I know that idiot still won't approach you first but I'm sure he's just as head over heels for you as you are for him." Taehyung concluded his little speech.

Jimin's vision blurred as a few tears slipped out. He chuckled at Taehyung's alarmed expression and shook his head,

"I'm just relieved, Taehyung. And fucking happy." He said and accepted the handkerchief that the other offered.

"Thank you." He said, and Taehyung didn't need anyone else to tell him that Jimin meant it from the bottom of his heart.

"Oi you two! Quit stalling and gather over here!" Chen's sudden call startled the duo causing them to jump up slightly.

Chuckling, the duo joined the other students as soon they were being piled back onto the bus.

"Now that my love life is back on track- don't forget about your own derailed one." Jimin said as they settled on their seats, "Don't make my beloved cousin suffer anymore."

Taehyung chuckled at the mock glare the other passed him, "Don't worry hyung. I know just what to do."

-

"Oh, my dear Jinnie!!" Jin mentally face palmed in embarrassment as his mother engulfed him in a tight hug before he could even make it inside his house.

It felt good and warm undoubtedly but Jin wasn't a fan of those awed giggles their neighbours and other passers-by passed them.

"My dear, at least let him walk inside." Their father chuckled and Namjoon shook his head resignedly.

"She doesn't get that emotional when I return after long stretches." He grumbled and Jin stuck out his tongue at him.

"Oh...I just worry about him so much- he's too young to be living alone!" Jin's mother explained as the family finally headed inside.

"I know mom, I missed you and dad loads too."

"What did you make for dinner? I'm starving." Jin groaned as he sat on the living room's couch, his mind finally at peace and at home.

Mrs. Kim giggled, "Your father made tteok-bokki today."

"What?! Dad you-!" Namjoon exclaimed in utter disbelief, sharing Jin's thoughts while the older man blushed heavily at the sudden attention.

"Why do you guys seem so shocked? You don't think I can cook?" He huffed as he scurried away in the kitchen, probably to calm his crimson face.

"He also harvested a few strawberries to make strawberry tart for you guys." Mrs. Kim further supplied and Jin's jaw slacked at the revelation.

"Mum, be honest- what did you mix in his breakfast today?" Jin asked in a serious tone, receiving a light slap from his mother in return.

"Wow a month of Jin's absence can do this to him?" Namjoon said, his eyes wide with wonder. "Please stay away from home for longer stretches, Jin!"

Jin rolled his eyes, "Don't be stupid, he's obviously doing this to impress mom for their anniversary."

"If I was a stranger, I would've never believed that he is the owner of a multinational company." Mrs. Kim chuckled, her voice fond.

"If you guys are done making fun of me behind my back- you can join me for dinner." Mr. Kim called out, making the other three laugh at his petty voice.

-

"- almost all the rice cakes were burnt to a crisp and I was sure I felt a few pieces of tomato skin here and there but you know we didn't tell him because he'd put in so much effort but I think he realised it himself." Jin giggled, as he applied his usual cream before heading to sleep.

His phone was supported against his face cream container as he conversed with Taehyung via a video call.

"It's the thought that counts, hyung." Taehyung spoke, already laid down on his bed.

"Exactly...." Jin hummed into the call.

"You must be feeling so relaxed hyung, visiting home after a month?" Taehyung asked, shuffling around for a pillow to rest his head upon.

"Yeah, it feels so great to be back." Jin sighed as he walked up to his room window and peered outside, "The stars are so much clearer too."

"So good that you don't want to return?" The younger asked, his tone teasing but his heart anticipating for the answer.

Jin chuckled, "Don't be stupid. I'll not be able to take admission in a school in the middle of the school year again."

"You would've left otherwise?" The flat tone of the other's voice caused Jin to look at the screen but Taehyung had turned off his video.

"You know that's not true, Tae. I've got my friends here- you, Jungkook, even Yoongi and Hoseok."

"That's all?"

"Yah what has gotten into you Kim Taehyung?" Jin chuckled, "Besides you would be able to sit with Jimin during every art class if I'm not there."

The radio silence from the other side made Jin check his phone again, "Why did you turn off your video? I feel weird with only my video on" He asked.

"Bad internet connection ... .you keep yours on hyung." The heavy voice finally muttered.

"It was fine so far..." Jin pouted.

"Hyung, I-" Taehyung began but was interrupted.

"Oh shoot Tae, I just noticed that my phone has 1% battery, would it be fine if I called you a bit later?" Jin asked in an apologetic tone for ending their call early.

Taehyung shook his head and realised that the other one couldn't see him so he replied, "It's fine hyung, we'll talk tomorrow...it's late anyways."

"Okay...good night Tae."

"Good night, hyung."

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

"Happy anniversary to you~!" Namjoon and Jin chorused effectively waking up their parents, who grumbled at the sudden disturbance.

"Ehh??" Mr. Kim mumbled in confusion, his eyes still adjusting to the sudden flow of lights as Jin shoved a small handmade cake in front of their faces.

"This all seemed fun when we were younger..." Mrs. Kim grumbled as she sat up, her hair almost comically messed up.

None of them commented on it though- as they all wanted to survive.

"Thank you guys, so much, but can we go back to sleep...It's midnight." Mr. Kim requested, stifling a yawn making both his sons pout.

"But I haven't even played the saxophone yet!" Namjoon complained while Jin whined, "At least have a taste of the cake- I made it myself!"

But their combined efforts were futile as they saw their parents doze off from where they were seated, leaning against the headboard.

Jin and Namjoon sighed before finally deciding to leave their slumber infused parents for the night and headed outside.

"I had even practised the tune..." Namjoon continued to pout as Jin placed his cake in the fridge. The younger sibling sighed and patted his brother.

"It's ok, you can play it in the morning." Jin consoled and Namjoon nodded. "You sleepy?" Jin asked the other who shook his head.

The duo went to sit on the chairs kept on their balcony. "It feels nice." Namjoon commented, slightly cold from the chilly breeze.

"How is city life treating you Jin?" Namjoon asked, breaking the calm air that surrounded the brothers. "Do you miss home?"

Jin closed his eyes and leant back against the chair, enjoying the breeze while he answered, "City life is good...but yeah I miss home too."

"And the people? Your classmates, teachers?" The older brother further prodded.

"They're actually better than what I had anticipated." Jin confessed with a little chuckle, "I hadn't actually thought I would be able to make any friends in the first month...thought I would be stuck to Jimin like a leech."

"That boy...Taehyung, right? He seemed like a close friend..."

Jin nodded, "We've grown close..." Then with a hint of hesitation he added, "I told him about me being a chaebol's son."

Namjoon raised his eyebrows, "I thought you wanted to keep that a secret, lest people think negatively of you."

"Yeah, I-I just didn't feel like he'd do something like that." Jin said, his voice small yet undeterred.

"He's the same one who fought with you on your first day of moving in, right?" Namjoon asked. He continued when he received an affirmative nod from the other, "And now you're so close that you felt confident enough to share one of your deepest secrets?"

Jin sighed, "I know what it looks like hyung but, he apologised for his rude behaviour and actually put efforts to make our friendship work....he gave me space but also always made sure that I never felt left out."

Namjoon gave his brother a knowing look, "You like him, don't you Jinnie?" He asked in a soft voice.

"Please don't- he has a long-term crush on Jimin." Jin muttered, rubbing his temples as the cold air was starting to give him a headache.

"That's messed up." He heard Namjoon comment and he couldn't agree anymore.

"What did you get mom and dad for their anniversary?" Jin asked, steering the conversation on some other lane. Namjoon picked up on it immediately and decided to play along.

"I got them a 2 hour full body spa booking and booked a table at that newly opened Michelin restaurant." Namjoon said with an air of confidence.

Jin cocked his eyebrow, "And why that restaurant specifically? You said that you don't trust newly opened restaurants."

Namjoon's confidence fumbled at that and the older looked away to formulate an answer. He mumbled something that wasn't audible to the younger.

"Huh? What was that?"

"The head chef is my girlfriend." He mumbled a bit loudly.

"Aha! I knew it! You have a girlfriend and you didn't tell me about it!" Jin shot up, pointing an accusing finger towards his older brother who blushed profusely.

"I thought I'll break the news when we'll be eating at her restaurant." Namjoon continued to mumble.

"Is it Yeri noona?" Jin further prodded.

Namjoon looked at him with wide eyes, "H-How did you know?" He stammered.

Jin rolled his eyes, "You speak as if you didn't stare at her as she herself hung the stars in your sky every time she came to visit you at the farmhouse. Come to think of it...I think mom and dad already know about it too."

Namjoon sighed, "I feel so light now....she'll definitely win over mom with her excellent cooking talents."

Jin smiled and reached out to pat his brother, "Damn...I can't believe that you're in a relationship now. How did someone like Yeri noona fall for a clumsy ass like yourself?"

"Hey! That was very rude." Namjoon pouted. "But yeah...I wonder about it sometimes too...how did I become so lucky?"

Jin wrinkled his nose in disgust as he took in his brother's lovesick gaze, "Gross. People in love are so gross."

"Huh we'll see about that when Taehyung and you start dating."

Jin rolled his eyes and scoffed at the comment but even in the dark Namjoon could make out his younger brother's crimson ears.

-

"Hey Jungkook! Wait up!" The aforementioned boy looked up from where he was walking back to his home. He looked at the source of the sudden call and spotted a mop of familiar pink hair weaving through the crowd and materialising in front of him.

"Hi Jimin hyung, what are you doing here?" Jungkook asked, a smile lighting up his features.

"Just got finished with my dance practice." Jimin informed and Jungkook nodded,

"For the inter school competition, right?"

"Yup." Jimin answered and a somewhat awkward silence ensued.

"So...I'm gonna-" Jungkook began after a while but Jimin interrupted him.

"Have a drink with me?" He offered, his eyes noticing the way the younger boy stiffened with hesitance.

"Uhh...I have this thing to attend to..." Jungkook trailed off, his voice unsure.

"Please? I insist?"

"Okay...." Jungkook relented, not being able to deny those puppy eyes.

The duo walked into a small cozy restaurant nearby and ordered a few things. Their orders arrived soon enough and a somewhat tense air surrounded the two of them.

"So...I talked to Taehyung yesterday, you know on the trip." Jimin started carefully, sipping on his drink.

Jungkook hummed to indicate that he was listening.

"He told me that he had a crush on me." He continued, suppressing his smile as Jungkook spluttered at that, almost spitting out his drink.

"Taehyung said that?!" Jungkook exclaimed in utter disbelief. Then after overcoming his initial shock, he asked, "Well what did you say to him?"

"He told me that he had a crush on me back then but now he likes Jin so all I could really say was- thank you for fucking finally realising that." Jimin said, making Jungkook chuckle.

"He did take a long time to sort out his feelings."

"And he also told me the way you had started avoiding me ever since he told you that he likes me." The pink haired boy continued and Jungkook spluttered for the second time in the span of 3 minutes.

"N-No, that's n-not-" He tried to explain but Jimin beat him to it.

"I know you're a very good person and friend Jungkook and that's why you did what you did but it did hurt me when you sidetracked me like that." Jimin continued, his grip on the mug tightening.

"Hyung..."

"I mean I get why you did that but it didn't make it any less worse....you could have spoken to me about it."

"Hyung-"

"And you didn't even join the dance club after that and I felt as if it were my fault-"

"Park Jimin!" Jimin paused his ramblings as Jungkook raised his voice.

"What?" He asked, slight agitation in his voice.

"I like you. A lot. And you're right it was very asshole-y of me to just abandon you but I did that in order to not betray Taehyung- cuz I knew if I was close to you, I wouldn't be able to conceal my feelings and feared that you wouldn't reciprocate them." Jungkook confessed, his face as pink as the drink he had ordered.

"You're such an idiot Kookie." Jimin breathed, calling the other by the nickname they had given themselves a long time back. "How could you not take one look at me all those years back and realise that I was head over heels for you."

"I am a very big idiot." Jungkook agreed readily, his eyes tearing up, "I'm so sorry for hurting you for so long, Jiminie."

"It's not okay. You gotta compensate." Jimin huffed, making the other chuckle.

"Fair enough. How do you want me to compensate?"

"By kissing me."

-

To Jin Hyung

I talked to Mrs. Jang.

She agreed to give you the piano

:))

From Jin Hyung

Omgggg!

Thank youu!!

My saviour 😭♥️

To Jin Hyung

ᕙ⁠(⁠ ͡⁠◉⁠ ͜⁠ ⁠ʖ⁠ ͡⁠◉⁠)⁠ᕗ

From Jin Hyung

I told you to stop using those creepy ass emoticons.

To Jin Hyung

Make me stop.

¯⁠\⁠_⁠ʘ⁠‿⁠ʘ⁠_⁠/⁠¯

However, before Taehyung could receive a reply from Jin, he got a call from Jungkook.

"Yeah Kook? What's up?" He asked as he started to walk back to his apartment.

"I kissed Jimin." Jungkoon breathed into the call making Taehyung freeze in his steps.

"Shit it wasn't a good way to drop the news... Taehyung please you aren't upset right? Jimin told me you had talked to him and cleared out your thoughts-"

"Kook." Taehyung interrupted the other's continuous ramblings, "I'm not mad. I told Jimin to go and approach you. I'm just surprised that everything happened so quickly." He said in a reassuring voice.

He heard Jungkook chuckling from the other side, "Honestly? I can't believe it myself."

Taehyung felt himself smiling, "So how was it?" He teased the other.

"Amazing. We did it in a restaurant."

"Eww what the fuck?"

"I mean in the bathroom. Not in front of everyone Taehyung, come on."

"I don't think even that is a very good place for having your first kiss." Taehyung wrinkled his nose.

Jungkook rolled his eyes, "We made the best out of what was available to us. You speak as if you'll have your first kiss in front of the Eiffel Tower while everyone cheers for you."

"I would've if I could've." Taehyung huffed, "Besides Jin hyung doesn't like flashy stuff."

"Oho very well versed with his liking aren't you?" Jungkook teased and it was Taehyung's turn to roll his eyes. "I hadn't even mentioned his name!"

"Shut up, idiot."

"You could've told me about your feelings, Kook...I would've understood." Taehyung said after a while.

"I didn't want to ruin our friendship Taehyung. Even though you would've understood- you would've been hurt and I know it was stupid ideology since Jimin got hurt instead due to my ignorant behaviour but what is done is done. Let's just forget the past and move on." Jungkook answered back.

"Yeah it's the only thing we can do." Taehyung sighed.

"I'm right outside your colony...want to go shopping? We had to buy stuff for the Haunted House anyway." Jungkook suggested and Taehyung readily agreed.

Taehyung met the other at the main gate and after taking a look at the unusual yet refreshing and rejuvenating glow on his best friend's face, Taehyung realised that falling in love with someone wasn't just about falling for the person....

....it meant surrendering your entire heart to the other's soul and knowing that the other wouldn't hesitate before doing the same....plummeting from the sky knowing that the other would be there to catch you...

....it means your heart being aware of where it belongs despite not being close to the person...

It meant experiencing all those feelings that Kim Seokjin made Kim Taehyung experience in such a short period of time.

Love was exhilarating.

And Taehyung was finally ready.

-

"Jin hyung!" Taehyung yelled out ecstatically as he tackled the other in a hug.

"Tae-oof! Anyone would believe that I was gone for 2 months or something!" Jin laughed, though his smile gave away the fondness in his voice.

"Those 48 hours felt more like 480, hyung, so don't blame me." Taehyung huffed as he helped the other to carry his bags. "You must be tired, hyung, let me carry it."

Jin gave Taehyung a lookover, "Why are you so nice all of a sudden? You down with fever?" He joked, reaching out to check the other's temperature.

Taehyung swatted at his prying hands. "I've always been very nice to you, hyung, you just never realised it." The younger one grumbled as the duo walked towards their apartments.

"Oh wait, the piano-" Jin started as they passed Mrs. Jang's flat.

"She's currently out of town so she said that we could move it after she comes back on Wednesday." Taehyung reported to the other.

Jin gave him a grateful smile, "Thank you so much, Tae."

"No worries hyung." He smiled, "By the way, how did the anniversary go?" Taehyung asked, adjusting the bag's strap as he did so.

"Hyung and I gave them a surprise at 12 but they kicked us out from their room." Jin pouted, making the other laugh, "Hyung had got them a spa appointment so they spent half of their day there and later we all went to the company to celebrate with the staff and other close people." Jin informed, with a small smile. "It was hectic but felt nice."

"The company people had planned a party?"

Jin nodded, "Company staff, my uncle and his family and a few other people who are good friends with my parents."

Taehyung gave him an impressed look, "A chaebol get together."

Jin chuckled, "You could say that. The food was excellent."

"Huh, not better than yours, I'm sure." Taehyung declared with an air of finality at which Jin shook his head with a small smile.

As they reached their flat, Jin noticed Taehyung becoming more fidgety and quiet. He was about to question the other about it but Taehyung beat him to it.

"Hyung, tomorrow at school, can you meet me on the terrace during recess?" Taehyung blurted out, making the other frown in confusion.

"Okay...? But why?" Jin enquired.

"Nothing, I'll explain it to you there only but please do come....I'll be waiting for you." Taehyung said, his eyes hopeful.

Jin was taken aback by the sudden flow of emotions but nodded nonetheless with a smile adorning his features, "Of course, Tae. I'll be there." He reassured the younger one.

Taehyung let out a relieved sigh at that and reciprocated the gentle smile that Jin passed his way, "Thanks hyung. Sleep well tonight."

"Only tonight?" Jin asked, his voice teasing.

Taehyung rolled his eyes, "You know what I mean hyung. Besides, I need you to be in the best senses for tomorrow."

"Taehyung with all that foreshadowing, I'm kinda becoming nervous, you know." Jin chuckled, pushing a strand of hair behind his ear. 

"Shh don't overthink it, just be there. I promise you'll return back in one piece."

"One piece." Jin giggled at the reference and Taehyung rolled his eyes yet again.

"Good night, you anime geek." And with that the duo retired to their respective apartments.

-

"Why didn't you just confess, dude?!" Jungkook asked in pure confusion as he met Taehyung in front of his apartment the next morning.

"I needed to make it special, Kook." Taehyung stressed, as the duo commenced their routine game of rock, paper and scissors. 

Taehyung lost the game (as expected) and was about to spill his plans for the day to his best friend when Seokjin walked out of his flat.

"Hey guys! Good morning!" Jin said as he locked the door before turning to the younger duo. "I'll never understand this traditional game that you guys have tied yourselves down to." He shook his head.

"Wanna join hyung? We'll make some exceptions for first-timers." Jungkook offered as he handed his bag to a dejected Taehyung.

"Oh no, you guys enjoy being the sole participants of this weird-ass tradition, besides I wouldn't want Taehyung to carry another bag to school everyday." Jin said, feigning concern for the other.

"What makes you so sure that you'd win against me?" Taehyung said with a disapproving frown.

"Taehyung you lost from a four year old once- and even though I haven't seen Seokjin hyung play, I'm 400% sure that he'd play better than you." Jungkook intercepted with a snicker while Jin's eyes widened with shock.

"A four year old? Wow Tae- that's low, even for you!" Jin said, laughing at the brunette as he high-fived the muscle bunny.

"Yeah yeah, gang up on me- yay so fun!" Taehyung rolled his eyes, "I hope you guys know that you suck!" He said before stomping away, Jungkook and Seokjin following suit though still laughing.

The walk to the school was nothing out of ordinary, the trio met Jimin halfway to the school, who Jin noticed, had an unusual air about himself.

Jin and Jimin parted with the younger duo in front of the school hall and Jin finally got a chance to question Jimin about his unusually happy mood.

"Oh it's nothing, really." Jimin waved him away casually, saying how he is always in a good mood.

"Are you sure you don't want to tell me something?" Jin pressed as they entered their tittering classroom.

"I'll tell you after recess." Jimin relented after consistent questions from Jin, who frowned at that.

"Why is everyone giving so much importance to today's recess? Is there something that I don't know?" He asked in confusion.

"Who else has given importance to recess?" Jimin inquired.

"Taehyung, he said there's something he wants to tell me." Jin replied, as he took out the books required for the current period.

Jimin giggled, "You remember me telling you about my hypothesis?"

"The one for which you made a ppt for?" Jin asked flatly and Jimin eagerly nodded at that.

"Yup that one! Do you remember the outcome?"

"Taehyung doesn't like me Jimin! I told you he likes someone else!" Jin burst out, careful to keep his volume low.

Jimin passed him an all knowing smirk, "Okay okay, let's see what he'll meet you for then."

"You never answered why you look so happy." Jin pointed, trying to steer the conversation away from himself.

"I got a boyfriend." The pink haired boy finally revealed.

"What?!" This time Jin forgot to keep his voice in check as he felt the earth disappear from beneath his feet. He hastily apologised for causing a commotion before turning back to his cousin who'd turned pink.

"Jimin, why?!" Jin asked before he could himself. He realised how weird he'd have been sounding before quickly correcting himself, "I-I meant who?"

"That's a secret, you'll get to know after recess." Jimin winked at the other, aware of the other's inner turmoil but doing nothing to sort it out in order to not spoil Taehyung's surprise for the other.

'Taehyung will be crushed after knowing that his long-time crsuh is dating someone else.' Jin sighed, his heart heavy with worry as he thought about all the possible reactions Taehyung could have at this news- sadly none of them positive. 

"I hate being kept in the dark." Jin grumbled as Jimin just passed him an easy smile.

-

'Jin hyung, I love you.'

'Nah love is a bit too extreme I guess, I'll just stick with I like you.'

'Love is the correct word tho.'

'But we have only known each other for a month.'

Taehyung was currently immersed in his internal monologue, having jumped out from his class to head straight towards the terrace as soon as the bell signalling recess had rung out

'Has it only been a month?'

'Damn well they say when it's right it's right.'

'But what if he freaks out?'

'What if he-'

CRASH!

"Oh shit, I'm so sorry- Yoongi hyung?!" Taehyung exclaimed as he bumped into a person.

Yoongi grunted at the collision and would've tripped over if not for Hoseok managing to hoist him up by his collar.

"Watch where you're going, will you, Taehyung?" Yoongi grumbled as he assembled the few things that had slipped out of his hands.

Taehyung quickly helped the other to pick up some papers from the ground. "Sorry hyung." He apologized, not meeting the other's eyes.

"Am I still your hyung?" Yoongi remarked, his voice dry. Besides him Hoseok cleared his throat sharply. "Yoongi."

Taehyung frowned at that, hurt momentarily flashing in his eyes, "Of course, you'll always be my hyung, Yoongi hyung."

"Taehyung you don't have to explain yoursel-" Hoseok spoke but Yoongi interrupted him.

"Yeah, you've been doing an excellent job at that." Yoongi said, his eyes flashing in suppressed anger.

"What is that supposed to mean?" Taehyuhg shot back.

"Guys-"

"You left, Taehyung." Yoongi said, his voice stiff, "We gave you time and you sidetracked us."

"Hyung I-"

"We understood that what happened with your dad had deeply shaken you, it had shaken us up too but Taehyung...you could've at least talked to us." Yoongi continued and Hoseok was stunned to see his usually closed off friend, laying his feelings bare.

"That's the point isn't it, hyung? I felt horrible after I realised that it was because of me that our trio came to an end!" Taehyung burst out, "When I joined the senior school, I had intended to apologise but seeing you both together- so comfortable, so happy, it stopped me from interfering and ruin what you guys shared!"

"Taehyung, we never meant to make you feel like that!" Hoseok exclaimed, his eyes wide with worry, "We just wanted to give you space."

Taehyung nodded fervently, "I know hyung. And that's why it was so hard to approach- knowing that it was all in my head."

"I'm sorry." He spoke looking directly at Yoongi who held his gaze, "It was my fault but I didn't know how to make amends." He said now looking at Hoseok.

"You weren't at fault." Yoongi spoke quietly after a while. "Shit happened, we all understood that....what matters now is what you want to do now."

"I'm sorry too, for snapping and cornering you...I didn't mean to reconcile things this way...it's just I was having a shitty day and everything just slipped out." The shorter man continued.

Taehyung nodded, taking a deep breath to calm his frazzled emotions, "It's okay hyung. It's for the best that you told me what you really felt...I probably needed the harsh words to wake me up." Taehyung passed him a small smile, "...can we be back to being the best trio?"

"Taehyung, what about your current friend group? You don't need to part with them in order to be with us...we'll always be there with you." Hoseok said, his voice placating as he came to stand beside the younger.

Taehyung let out a  chuckle, "They'll have no problem hyung...they all worship the ground you two walk on...crying how perfect you both are and how they want to follow your footsteps...specially Jungkook."

"I'm so sorry guys." Taehyung repeated his head hung low, "Because of me we lost so many precious years."

"Hey stop. What matters is that everything is fine now, right Yoonie?" Hoseok asked the shorter male who nodded.

"Keep in touch Taehyung, even after we graduate." Yoongi spoke, "And don't blame yourself anymore. "

"Yes hyung." Taehyung whispered, his eyes filling with happy tears this time.

"And that calls for a group hug!" Hoseok announced before tackling the other two in a group hug, eliciting a laugh from Taehyung and a groan from Yoongi.

"Thank you." Taehyung's whisper was lost amongst the giggles and grumbles but was heard clearly by the other two.

-

"And he still hasn't come..." Jin sighed from where he was leaning against a wall. He checked his watch and saw there was only five minutes till recess ended.

"He...he stood me up?" He mumbled, his voice laden with confusion before immediately denying it, "The way he was almost pleading me to come to the terrace - I'm sure something has come up...he might be coming any minute now." He continued, consoling himself as he idly kiked a spare rock on the concrete floor. 

His clock ticked by.

'Please come...'

He looked up at the clouds, the sky warm and comforting but no stars visible.

'Taehyung...'

'He must be heartbroken to learn that Jimin was dating someone now...maybe that's what he wanted to tell me?' Jin thought to himself, opting to sit against the wall.

'Maybe he wanted to know if I could break them up somehow?'

Jin looked at his unopened lunch box which was clutched in his hands. He had made Taehyung's favourite sandwiches today.

'But I don't have the power to do that.'

The bell rang signalling the end of recess, startling Jin who hurriedly rubbed away the tears that had slipped out from his startled jump.

'I was so stupid to get carried away by Jimin's ideologies.' He chuckled humorlessly as he got up and dusted his pants. 'Taehyung liking me back and what not.'

'Kim Taehyung will never be with me.'

And that was the truth.

Jin slowly descended the stairs leading to the terrace, his heart growing heavy with each faltering step that he took- his sadness slowly morphing into anger and frustration.

'How dare he leave me standing?! After everything we've been through?'

'Stupid Taehyung with his stupid boxy smile.'

'Didn't our friendship mean anything to him?'

'I should've never come to the city, at least there would've been no Taehyung to torment me back in my hometown.'

'At least I wouldn't have to experience my first heartbreak so soon.'

"Jin hyung!"

-

Chapter Text

Third Person's Pov

To say Jin was confused would be an understatement.

Cause what do you mean that he was shoved up inside a broom closet yet again but this time with a heavily breathing Taehyung accompanying him, while Yoongi and Hoseok were busy guiding the outside to keep an eye out for any incoming teachers or any other school staff.

"Taehyung." Seokjin breathed out, "What the fuck?"

"Hyung, I'm so sorry I couldn't be there on time- well you see I was on my way but then I stumbled upon Yoongi and Hoseok hyung and had to reconcile with them then a teacher asked me to help her carry some stupid notebooks and files to the staffroom and as a result I couldn't make it on time!" Taehyung apologised, looking extremely guilt ridden.

"Hey, it's okay...but why are we in a broom closet?" Jin asked in a light tone, making sure that no broom could creepily brush up against him again.

Taehyung bit his lips sheepishly, "Well it's so that the teachers don't catch us! Yoongi and Hoseok hyung will keep guard of the corridors while I confess my feelings for you." He admitted with a hue of pink colouring his cheeks.

Seokjin stared back at him dumbfounded, not believing his own ears.

Confess his feelings?

"Make it quick guys, there's only so much we can do to fool teachers." Yoongi grumbled from outside while Hoseok chided him, "Let them take their time, Yoon!"

"So...." Jin started unsurely as he saw Taehyung take a deep breath.

"Hyung, I like you a lot. Like a lot." Taehyung began hella nervous about admitting his feelings to the other, "And I don't know what you feel about me but I had to keep it out there....I don't know where this will lead us, I will respect whatever decision you take regarding this but honestly I was tired of just mulling over the countless possibilities."

"W-What?" Jin asked, not believing his ears.

Taehyung frowned, "What do you mean 'what'? Don't tell me to repeat all that hyung, I'm very nervous as it is-"

"I mean- didn't you like Jimin?"

"I liked Jimin hyung, hyung." Taehyung smiled at the other but it was futile given the dark atmosphere they were trapped in, "It's been quite a while since the new reason for my sleepless night is you."

"You make it sound as if I'm a haunted spirit." Jin said in a slight disapproving tone.

"You know what I mean hyung." Taehyung rolled his eyes, "You make me feel like no one before has ever, hyung."

"Taehyung..." Jin said in utter awe.

"So? Your answer??" Taehyung urged the other.

Jin let out a relieved smile, "Of course I like you too, Tae! But I wasn't planning on confessing anytime soon cuz I knew you liked Jimin!"

"He said yes!" They heard Hoseok squeal from outside.

"Duh." Came the dry reply from Yoongi.

"Keep it quiet you two!" Taehyung hissed under his breath before turning to look at Jin with an ecstatic expression on his face.

"You really mean that, hyung? Even though I had been a complete jackass towards you in the beginning?" He asked.

"Shit happens Tae. But what matters is how you choose to make it right. And thanks to you- my life in the city has been so much easier and more comfortable." Jin smiled, making Taehyung's throat constrict as he was overcome with emotions.

"Thank you for giving me another chance to prove myself."

"Thank you for trying to make things right."

"If they start making out, I'm gonna puke." Yoongi grumbled yet again, earning a protest from Hoseok.

The duo trapped inside flushed pink at the comment.

"He's kinda correct tho, we should get out of here...it's getting stuffy." Jin said as he passed him a shy smile.

Taehyung's eyes widened at the realisation, his own face dampened with a sheen of sweat, "Right, let's get out of here." He said before asking the duo standing outside, "Is the coast clear?"

"No stay put for a second..." Hoseok whispered back slowly, his voice cautious.

There was quite a shuffle outside before Yoongi cursed,

"Shit is that the Principal?!"

-

"A dirty, stuffy, dark broom closet is a much better place to confess than a restaurant, right Taehyung?" Jungkook said in a sarcastic tone from where they were walking towards the school gate after their classes were over for the day.

Taehyung rolled his eyes, "I'll let you know that I had planned something else entirely, it just didn't work out."

"At least Jin has now explored the broom closets of our school properly." Jimin laughed, making Jin pout.

"A bit too well." He grumbled, but his pouty lips stretched into a small smile as he felt Taehyung intertwining their fingers.

"Sorry hyung, I'll compensate for this on our first date." Taehyung said with a guilty smile.

"Okay, I'll hold on to it."

Jungkook wrinkled his nose, "Sap."

Taehyung stuck his tongue out while Jimin giggled, "Honestly they look so cute together that it's disgusting."

"Um rude? And I can't believe you didn't tell me that you were dating Jungkook!" Jin girped.

"Well it was supposed to be a surprise!" Jimin defended, "It's not my fault you guys are such wuss."

"Hmph, whatever!"

After a while of walking, Jimin and Jungkook parted their ways while Taehyung and Seokjin continued their lazy stroll towards their colony.

"Hyung, I'm really happy today." Taehyung commented with a content smile, making Jin look up at him.

"Really?"

"Yeah, I reconciled with Yoongi and Hoseok hyung and started dating you- I want to engrave this day in my heart so that I never forget about it." Taehyung sighed, making Seokjin chuckle at his overdramatic words.

"Taehyung, is that you?" The duo turned around at the call, to see Taehyung's mom walking towards their direction, carrying a few bags of groceries.

"Mom, I forgot that you didn't go to work today." Taehyung admitted before the duo went over to help her with the bags. "This is Seokjin, our neighbour and my boy- best friend." Taehyung coughed vehemently to cover his slip-up while Seokjin's ears turned red.

"Hello Mrs. Kim, really nice to meet you." Seokjin bowed, "Please let me help you carry these." He said motioning towards the bags.

Mrs. Kim chuckled, "It's good to finally meet you Seokjin-ah. Thank you so much for taking such good care of my Tae-bear." Taehyung grumbled a bit at the nickname, making Seokjin giggle, both of them now carrying a few bags of groceries.

"I must have come out as rude Seokjin-ah for not inviting you to our house earlier but work has been keeping me so busy these days." The older lady huffed as the trio stepped inside the elevator.

"Oh not at all Mrs. Kim! I didn't mind at all! After all, both my parents are working as well and hence I know how much work can be trouble at times." Seokjin shot up at once, denying it.

"Aish ma, don't think about unnecessary stuff...Jin hyung isn't the kind of person to take these things to heart- not taking it for granted or anything, just complimenting his kind self." Taehyung contributed, sneakily winking at Jin from behind his mother's back, earning a pinch on the stomach from the blushing man.

"You okay?" His mom enquired as Taehyung made a sound of grimace.

"Yup!" Taehyung counterfeited at once, with a smile.

The elevator dinged lowly, announcing their arrival at their floor.

"I was thinking of making tteok-bokki for lunch today but would you like to have something else?" Mrs Kim asked Jin who blinked in confusion, before realisation set in.

"Oh Mrs. Kim you don't need to-" He started but was silenced by a look from the older woman.

Beside him, he heard Taehyung snigger.

-

"Ugh why are you guys home?! What happened to piano and soccer practices??" Taehyung groaned out as he spotted his younger siblings sprawled on the couch but sitting upright as they saw the new visitor.

"Hyung come on, you only need to get rid of her, I, on the other hand, am completely sane and well mannered." Taemin tched as he stood up to greet Seokjin.

Taesoo followed suit but not before retorting, "I would kindly suggest that you watch your words, Kim Taemin, if you don't want your future kids to be born with certain deformities."

Seokjin stifled a laugh at the smart retort, but immediately schooling his features as Taemin directed his pout towards him.

"Hi Seokjin oppa, make yourself at home!" Taesoo greeted the older man warmly before whispering to Taehyung, "I see you finally gathered the balls to confess."

Taehyung sighed, "I don't even want to know how you get to know everything."

"Connections." She waved vaguely, "But hyung, I ought to give it to you- you've got taste." She murmured, eyeing Seokjin who was now engaged in a light conversation with Mrs. Kim and Taemin.

Taehyung rolled his eyes but a smug smile made way on his face nonetheless. He grabbed Taesoo's neck and turned it away from Seokjin, "Eyes off my man, shit head, go find your own."

"Spoken like a true Wattpad character." She patted her brother on his shoulder and the duo went ahead to join the others.

"Oh Mrs. Kim, this is delicious!" Jin complimented as the rich flavours of the dish soothed his taste buds. "So much better than what I make."

"Thank you, Seokjin-ah." Mrs. Kim preened at the praise, "You cooking your own meals at the tender age of 17 is impressive in itself."

"Hyung, don't demean yourself- your cooking is an absolute delight as well!" Taehyung piped in, not liking the self-depreciative tone of his hyung.

No.

Boyfriend.

The voice inside Taehyung's head corrected, making his heart mushy with giddiness.

Beside him his siblings rolled their eyes in sync, noticing their brother's lovesick expression.

"Tae-bear, why aren't you eating? Not up to your mark?" Mrs. Kim asked, feigning hurt.

Taehyung broke out of his reverie and passed his mother an easy smile, "You know how much I love your cooking ma...I was just thinking about something." Seated across from him, Seokjin passed him an amused glance.

"Since when did you start doing that?" Taesoo asked with a snigger, making Taehyung roll his eyes.

Mrs. Kim lightly reprimanded her daughter and the family along with Jin fell into a comfortable silence as they finished their lunch. While putting away the dishes, Taehyung helped his mother carry the dishes to the kitchen as the twins retired to their respective rooms and Jin was instructed to go to Taehyung's room, despite the other's wish to help.

"I could've managed this on my own, Taehyung-ah, you should spend time with Seokjin." Mrs. Kim said as she washed the dishes while Taehyung dried them and kept them in their place.

Taehyung shook his head, "It's okay...besides Jin hyung would've helped you himself if I hadn't." He chuckled, the evident fondness in his voice not escaping his mother.

"Mom, I wanted to tell you something..." Taehyung began as he dried and kept away the last of the dishes.

Mrs. Kim hummed as to indicate that she was listening.

"Actually...me and Jin hyung are-" He started, somewhere between timid and shy.

"- are dating?" Mrs. Kim completed his sentence with a smile.

"H-How did you k-know?!" Taehyung asked, flabbergasted as his mother laughed lightly.

"Honestly I would have to be blind in order to not notice." She admitted, chuckling a bit, "But didn't you say you liked someone called Jimin?"

"That was a long time back- okay maybe not that long back but...I realised that I liked Jin after I had already fallen head over heels for him. And besides Jungkook's dating Jimin." Taehyung said to his mother, whose eyes widened as saucers.

"What? Jungkookie?" She asked shocked, "But he's so young and sweet!"

"We're the same age, ma." Taehyung deadpanned.

"Huh, so what? He's way cuter and sweeter than you." Mrs. Kim said, teasing her son who rolled his eyes at that. "I always liked him better than you."

"Whatever- I like Mrs. Jeon way more than you well." Taehyung huffed and grumbled, making his mother laugh out loud.

"I'll go and take a short nap...you go and spend time with Seokjin-ah, if you need anything just call me, okay?" Mrs. Kim said, stifling a yawn as she retired to her room. Taehyung quickly tidied up the kitchen before he hurried to his room to join Jin.

"Oh, is the work done?" Jin asked from where he was gazing at the various photo frames hung in Taehyung's room, his eyes fond as his eyes fixated on an adorable baby Tae's picture.

"Yup, sorry it took that long...you must have been bored." Taehyung muttered as he joined the other, his eyes widening as he took in the photo Jin was looking at, "Oh shit- Don't look at those hyung! They're embarrassing!" And with that he snatched the frames away from Jin who protested at that.

"Hey come on, I was just taking a look! You look so cute!" Jin laughed as he chased around a highly embarrassed Taehyung.

"They're not cute- they're embarrassing!" Taehyung repeated as he jumped up on the bed to avoid a flailing Jin.

"Okay okay- I won't look at them if you don't want me to. Just sit down." Jin said, his voice coming out in slight pants as he gave up chasing after the other and sat down on the edge of the bed.

Soon Taehyung joined him, albeit cautiously as he hid the frames behind him, Jin shaking his head at that. "Relax Tae- besides I've already looked at them." Jin spoke, his voice smug, making Taehyung grumble and give up on hiding them.

The chaotic air battered down as the duo slowly caught up their breaths after their frenzied fight, Taehyung choosing to break the comfortable silence that had surrounded the duo.

"I told my mom about us." He admitted carefully, peering up to see the other's reaction before continuing, "Are you okay with that? I know I should've asked you first but I couldn't help it- more like she'd already guessed before I could even say anything to her."

Jin chuckled, "it's okay, I don't mind our families knowing about it....I told my hyung too just now..." the older one said, "Do you have any problem with tha-"

"No hyung I don't." Taehyung cut the other off with a small smile etched in his face as he reached out to link their fingers, "I'm happy to hear that you're just as serious about this relationship as I am."

Seokjin pulled on an indignant look, though his eyes lingered on their joined hands, "Of course I am Tae. Why would you feel like I wasn't?"

Taehyung let out a breath and nodded with a smile, "Right. I'm sorry hyung, I shouldn't have doubted."

Some time passed.

"Hyung, can I kiss you?" Taehyung asked abruptly, making Jin choke on air at the sudden question.

Taehyung himself turned bright red as he realised the voice he had uttered without much prior thought, "Fuck, I'm sorry hyung- please forget I said anything, don't know what the fuck I was thinking." He rambled, unlocking a new level of embarrassment entirely.

"Okay." Jin muttered quietly, his ears on fire, stunning the other into deafening silence.

"A-Are you sure?" He asked the other tentatively.

Jin nodded, exhaling deeply, "Yeah, I mean we're dating aren't we? It's anything but natural for us to kiss..." he trailed off.

Taehyung shot up at that, taking both of Jin's dainty hands into his own bigger ones, "Hyung we don't have to just because we're dating...I want to do it because I really like you hyung- and honestly I've thought about it an unhealthy amount of times."

Jin wasn't sure if it were even possible to blush harder as he heard Taehyung's words- his heart ready to burst at the honest confession as he put a stray strand of hair behind his ear before emitting a nervous chuckle, "I-I've thought about it a lot of times too..." He mumbled shyly.

He looked up when he received no response, an apology on the tip of his tongue but before he could say anything Taehyung uttered,

"God hyung you make me go so mad."

And with that the younger swooped in to capture the others luscious lips, Jin gasping at the suddenness of it all, eyes fluttering shut as their lips slotted perfectly with each other's.

And in that moment nothing mattered anymore to the two teens, lost in the heated moments shared between them, holding each other close as if worried to lose the other if the hold loosened.

-

-4 months later-

"Oi Taehyung, quit dreaming and help us put up this pillar!" The aforementioned boy snapped his gaze away from where he was looking down from the class window at his boyfriend scurrying around in the school ground, carrying miscellaneous tools, adding last minute touches to their Haunted House.

Taehyung, who was dressed as a zombie with fake blood smeared all over him, sauntered over to help where his classmates were putting up the last of the cardboard pillars, decorated with cobwebs and bloody handprints.

"This looks impressive, right?"Jungkook grinned as he materialised beside him, dressed as an egyptian mummy over the frankenstein monster he'd earlier chosen and Taehyung had to admit that he looked truly disturbing with all the prosthetic eyes and broken limbs the muscle bunny had chosen to invest his money on.

They were soon joined by the rest of their friends and they all got busy correcting the minutest of details, hoping that their hard work in setting the entire school up as a haunted house would be worth it.

Taehyung and Jungkook went downstairs to join Jimin and Jin who were busy arranging the tickets they were to give out to the students coming from outside their school.

"Is everything okay inside?" Jin- the handsome vampire, asked Taehyung who nodded as he came to stand beside him, his hand automatically anchoring on the vampire's waist.

"May this be the last Haunted House of my entire life." Jimin muttered, who despite being dressed as a headless monster, had readily jumped at the idea of sitting on the ticket counter- a good distance away from the Haunted House set up.

"It's okay Minnie, we'll make sure that it isn't." Jungkook said, teasing the other who passed him a hefty glare.

"I just hope that this all goes well...we've truly put a lot of effort into this," Jin sighed as he passed Jimin an arranged pile of tickets.

Taehyung smiled, "Don't worry baby, I'm sure that people are bound to get enthralled by the handsome vampire just roaming around entrancing the clueless children." He grinned cheekily.

"God, you look even more disturbing when you smile." Jin recoiled away from the other, who passed him an affronted look to the older.

"Guys! Okay there's only five minutes left for us to open the gates- All the ghosts and other creepy creatures, go to your respective places!" Hoseok called out, gathering the attention of the crowd gathered on the school grounds, people slowly dispersing at the command of the Head Boy who was dressed as a Frankenstein monster and his shorter grumpy companion dressed as a creepy clown.

"We should head back as well." Jungkook spoke up and the other two agreed, Jimin being left behind at the ticket counter.

3,2,1- Open the gates!!

-

"Cheers!" The big crowd of highschoolers rejoiced, clinking their glasses of soft drink together in the wake of their extremely successful Haunted House event. They had flogged down the entire dining area of a local restaurant, the servers going haphazard at the crazy pile of orders.

"Taehyung, fries?" Moonbyul, dressed a purple teletubby as she had promised to, asked as she thrusted forward a plate of french fries, Taehyung nodding an affirmative answer as he picked a few, munching on them, his eyes wandering round the restaurant to spot his lover, having been separated from him at some point of rush.

He spotted the man in another corner, still donning his vampire costume, looking hotter than ever in the dim light as the elder sat in his lone white shirt, having foregone the black cape, surrounded by his classmates.

He excused himself from his tittering group of friends who were excitedly recalling their best moments of scaring the curious onlookers. He had shared his fair shares of successful jumpscares earning rowdy laughter and proud pats on his back.

He slowly walked over to join Jin, though not wanting to interrupt the quiet conversation going on between his boyfriend and the head boys of their school.

Jimin and Jungkook, he realised with a scrunched up nose, were nowhere to be seen.

Well it wasn't really a mystery where the duo had disappeared off to.

Jin's eyes fell on the boy who was awkwardly hovering behind, a curious smile making its way on the older face as he traced the unsure look on the young zombie's face. Yoongi and Hoseok followed his line of gaze, one of them breaking into a smile as he beckoned the younger towards them while the other rolled his eyes.

"Sorry..didn't mean to interrupt your conversation." Taehyung said with a guilty smile as he sat next to his boyfriend.

"We were debating team cap vs team iron man...I think it'd have been fine if you had interrupted it." Yoongi deadpanned, though Taehyung could spot the traces of a faint smile on the other's face, his heart lightening as he let out a laugh of his own.

"Who debates on that topic with such a sombre expression?" He asked, making Jin frown at that.

"What do you mean? It's a serious debate!" He defended, Hoseok nodding fervently, "Which team would you have chosen?" He asked the other.

"I've always been on team iron man though I liked cap's teammates better." Taehyung said easily, having formed his opinion from the first time he'd seen the movie around 6 years ago.

(A/N please don't start a war in the comments (T.T))

Jin nodded, his face serious as he took in his boyfriend's opinion, "That makes the three of us. Yoongi, why do you support Team Cap?"

Yoongi shrugged, "Though I like Iron Man more, Cap's view had more sense....I admit Tony's anger was justified but he needed to understand that Bucky was not in his senses."

Jin pouted at that, "When you put it like that....but still Cap could've supported Tony, instead of totally opposing him." He decided.

"So according to you, Tony should've just ignored and forgiven the person who'd killed his parents?" Hoseok asked, his voice challenging.

Yoongi held out his arms, "I'm not saying anything like that- just expressing my opinions."

"Guys come on, does this topic really require such intense debate?" Taehyung piped up, and the others reluctantly agreed.

"Yeah you're right....it's stupid really." Jin mumbled, fidgeting with his long empty glass of soft drink. Yoongi and Hoseok fell into a mild conversation of their own and Taehyung took the chance to pipe in his question.

"If you don't mind, hyung- will you come with me?" Taehyung asked, smiling as there was almost not resistance given to his request.

"But our fries haven't come yet." The vampire pouted.

"It'll not take long, you can come and have your fries later." Taehyung said and the duo left the table.

"Where are we going?" Jin asked in a curious tone as he followed the other, Taehyung leading him up to a flight of stairs.

"Today while playing my part on the school's rooftop, I kinda discovered something." The younger mumbled as the duo walked out on the shop's terrace, their hands intertwined as they fell into step with each other, Jin gave him time to arrange his thoughts.

"You remember you complained that the city's air is so polluted that you can't see the stars?...Well look up hyung." Taehyung said with a smile admiring Jin's shocked expression as he took in the various stars dotting the sky.

"H-How?" The older asked, speechless and mesmerised at the scene.

"It was due to some initiative taken by a political party but I hold a different meaning to it." Taehyung mused, attaining the other's complete attention on him.

"I like to think that the sky represents me...all dusty, unsure, hiding its best elements under the mask of the polluted air gifted by city life...and after you came into my life, with those innocent eyes, introducing yourself as my new neighbour all those months ago..." Taehyung paused as he took in the other's glazed up gaze on him, moving closer to tuck a few array hair strands behind the other's ears, he smiled, "But with you baby, everything cleared up, you made my sky clearer and more beautiful than ever before...help me bring out the best of me that I hadn't even realised was there in me. Thank you so much, baby. I love you." He concluded as he pressed the softest of the kisses on Jin's forehead.

Jin's eyes fluttered, overcome with emotions as a few stray tears slipped down his reddened cheeks, "Tae...I love you too- it's all I can say really..I've never been particularly good at expressing myself through words but I hope you realise the love I have for you through my actions." Jin sniffed, giving the other a watery smile, "Gosh that was so sweet Taehyung, I love you so so much." He repeated, each word uttered by him tugging the strings of Taehyung's heart, as Jin pulled him to a tight embrace.

"With you Tae, all my days have turned special- no matter good or bad. Your dad must be so proud of the way you fulfilled your promise to me." Jin continued, bringing their foreheads together.

"Fuck- baby, you're gonna make me cry as well." Taehyung admitted with a small groan, his throat working up as he cupped the other's cheek and placed a chaste kiss on the other's full lips.

"You started it, so you have to take responsibility now." Jin put out defiantly as he brought the other's head towards him to engage in a proper kiss, both of them feeling electrified at the sensation.

And as Taehyung made out unabashedly with his lover out on the rooftop on a random local restaurant, his heart full of love, feeling fully awake yet drowned in the love surrounding them, he could only utter one thing in the deepest chambers of his heart,

'I finally got him.'