Chapter Text
Encounter number 1
Jimin was about to be fired. Well, maybe not fired since he was still one of the best employees there but he will definitely get yelled at. He hoped that maybe the streets weren't as busy today but there were people roaming around everywhere and him driving a bike didn't make him that much faster.
"C'mon, c'mon." He whispered to himself as he waited for the light to turn green, nervously tapping on the handles. In the meantime, he checked the time on his watch and cursed when he saw it was already 7:48 and he hasn't even passed the half of the distance that he has to. His coworker will definitely get him back for having to get everything ready by himself and for possibly, probably, having to survive the morning rush alone.
Finally, the light turns green but, of course, this day wasn't ready to go easy on Jimin. The car in the lane for turning right chose that they would be the first one to go, ignoring the walkers. Luckily for them they managed to step back in time but Jimin, on the other hand, got the front wheel hit by the car. Before he could even react, he felt his back crash against the floor. The impact made him groan in pain.
"Are you ok?" One of the passerby immediately rushed to his side, helping him stand up. Jimin still felt a bit dizzy by the fall due to loss of breath for a moment. He stumbled a bit, crashing in the stranger's right shoulder while the other put his hands around him to stabilize him. If Jimin was properly paying attention, he would realize how close they were.
"Yeah, I'm good." He replied after he could stand on his own, taking in his surroundings. Instead of looking at the person that helped him, his eyes immediately landed on his bike. "No!"
He lifted the bike and noticed that the front tire was bent. Sighing, he leaned lightly on the bike to calm himself because he doesn't want to cause a scene. In reality, he wanted to scream and punch something in frustration. Now he'll be late late.
"It's broken?" The stranger walked closer, examining it. Jimin forgot for a moment that he was still there and properly looked at him for the first time. He wasn't sure what he expected but it sure wasn't what he was seeing.
The man was tall and handsome with nicely styled black hair falling over his forehead. He was dressed in all black with a long coat, making him looked very elegant. Jimin figured he was probably working for a really rich company or was maybe even a model, he wouldn't put it past him. In short, the man was one hot masterpiece.
"Yeah." Jimin finally replied. "My boss is gonna kill me."
He said that mostly to himself but the man looked at him worried, thinking for a moment before he replied.
"I could give you a lift if you want." He offered and Jimin looked at him in wonder, blinking a few times without a word before looking at his watch. The time was now 7:56 and the coffee shop opens up at 8 o'clock which means that the stranger is now his only hope to make it on time. Or at least not an hour late.
"Please, can you? I'll make you the best coffee ever for free." Jimin offered, making the man chuckle. If Jimin wasn't so focused on making it in time, he would've been freaking out internally at how cute the stranger's smile is.
"Deal. Let's go." The man picked up the bike for him even though Jimin protested and said that he should be the one carrying it. Now, rational people would be wary of going into a stranger's car but Jimin was in a rush and also sleep deprived so the rational part of his brain was on a vacation. "You go sit, I'll deal with the bike. While you're at it, put the address in the GPS."
He unlocked the door for Jimin before throwing him the keys. It seems that neither of them though that the other was a bad person. Jimin did as told and patiently waited for the other to get in. He took off his helmet and placed it on his lap just when the other sat down.
"Red Moon…oh, I know. I went there once." He said after seeing the name displayed on the screen before putting on the seat belt and starting to drive in that direction. "So do you go to a uni here?"
The man started the conversation, glancing at Jimin before focusing back on the road.
"Yeah, third year. How about you? I don't remember seeing you around." Jimin answered truthfully and saw the look of surprise flash on the man's face before he composed himself, seeing that Jimin didn't recognize him.
"No, I'm working already." He says and Jimin nods. "I'm Jungkook by the way. Jeon Jungkook."
He once again looks at Jimin with expectation but doesn't notice any realization or shift in his expression.
"Park Jimin." Jimin smiles at him making the other smile too. "You look pretty young. Is it a family business?"
"No, I'm…self established." Jungkook replies not wanting to reveal that he is an idol. According to the media he is a number one rising idol currently and there are several of his posters around the city. Especially now that his comeback is nearing. Jimin either doesn't follow the latest gossip or simply doesn't care to remember the names and faces.
"Oh, that's so cool! I wish I was already successful but alas…" Jimin can't wait to graduate but until then he'll continue working at this coffee shop. Unless his boss finally snaps one day.
"Just a bit more." Jungkook comments, receiving a hum of agreement in response. "What are you studying?"
"I'm actually a double major. International relations and dance." He actually only wanted to be a dancer but his parents were very worried about it not being a stable career that he chose another one with it.
"Very different but wow, that's dope." Jungkook replied, his tone clearly showing that he was impressed.
"Thank you." Jimin realized that they were already at their destination and felt sad for a moment, actually enjoying Jungkook's presence. "Are you going in?"
"Can't. I have to go to the company." Jungkook said, not really feeling like leaving. He probably imagined it but he felt as if Jimin's face dropped for a second before he sent him a bright smile.
"Well, I hope you come some other time. I still owe you the best coffee of your life." He joked before looking back at the bike. Jungkook spoke before Jimin could.
"I'll fix it for you." Jungkook smiled at him while Jimin was staring at him with his lips slightly open. "I mean not personally, but I know a guy. Just give me your number so that I can get back to you."
Jimin was still processing what was happening when Jungkook handed him his phone, smiling slightly as if he was shy.
"Yeah, that's ok." Jimin typed in his phone number and quickly handed it back to Jungkook when he saw that it was already 8:07. "Thank you again. See you!"
"Bye." Jungkook replied but Jimin had already slammed the door shut and rushed inside, probably scaring the customers near the entrance.
To say the least, Jimin's coworker was not impressed. Jimin put on his apron as quickly as he could, typing in the orders that Yoongi was making. The coffee shop was packed as he expected, a lot of students and quite a bit of people from nearby companies.
"I'm going to kill you one day." Yoongi said in lower voice as he went past him before switching to his customer service one as he was giving the order to the girl. "Here you go…enjoy!"
"I know, I know. But this time, it wasn't completely my fault." Yes, he did sleep through his alarms but he also did got hit by a car so it wasn't all on him.
"Who was it then? Your boyfriend's?" They switched to the other side and simultaneously made their orders. Jimin paused for a second to look at Yoongi confused.
"What are you talking about? I don't have a boyfriend." Jimin then returned to work while Yoongi stopped to look at him with a raised eyebrow.
"No? Then who was the guy that dropped you off? Just a friend?" He said teasingly as he added the cream.
"You saw me?" Jimin asked before realizing that that sounds like he actually has something with Jungkook. "He's not a friend, he's...nobody. I had an accident on the way and he helped me."
"An accident?" Yoongi looked up at him worried, quickly checking for any injuries.
"Nothing serious. I'll tell you later." Jimin smiled at him so that he stops worrying before going to hand the order. For the rest of the day, his mind kept wandering back to the attractive stranger no matter how much he tried to repress it. After all, they wouldn't see each other after the bike is fixed. Right?
Encounter number 2
"Please! Pretty please!" Taehyung clung to his arm, looking up at him with puppy eyes and a pout. Jimin knew that he was going to give in the end but he wanted to see how far Taehyung would go until he agrees. "I'll do your laundry for a week."
"It's my free day and all I want to do is nothing." Jimin wasn't lying. After a while he finally had a completely free day, no school work and no job. He imagined it as becoming one with the bed and enjoying his favorite shows.
"I know, I know but he finally asked me out and I don't trust anyone else with my baby. Please!" The baby in question was his dog, Tannie. "I'll buy you meals for a week!"
"Make it two and I'll consider it." Hey, he doesn't hate Tannie nor does he want his best friend to miss out on a date with a guy he's been in love with for a year now but if he can, he will use this chance in his advantage.
"Deal! You got it. I'll even buy you those cookies that you love." Taehyung smiled brightly at him and Jimin rolled his eyes before agreeing.
"Alright fine, I'll babysit. Give me your keys." Taehyung screamed from the happiness, right in Jimin's ear, and threw himself on him to hug him.
"I love you, I love you, I love you." He placed a quick kiss on Jimin's cheek before moving back to grab the keys from his pocket and giving them to Jimin. "Take him on a walk and give him food, but not too much, he's not as big as he thinks he is and you're golden. Most of the time he'll be too occupied with his toys to pay attention to you."
"Got it." He took the keys, twirling them in his hand as he looked up at Taehyung. "Alright go, go get your man."
Taehyung jumped up, quickly putting on his jacket before giving a very enthusiastic wave and disappearing through the door. Jimin smiled to himself before getting up to shower and change into clean clothes.
He didn't do anything special, just regular jeans and a hoodie paired with a bomber jacket. He decided he wouldn't bother with his contacts so he had to wear his glasses. On his way out he chose to put on a beanie.
Taehyung's apartment was only few doors down from his which meant that the two popped in each other's apartments regularly. As soon as he opened the door, he heard Tannie rushing to him and in matter of seconds he was being attacked by an excited little ball of fluff.
"Hi, cutie! Did you miss me?" He took him in his arms and petted him for a bit while the dog gave him kisses. "Are you ready for a walk? Huh? Are we going for a walk?"
He put him down, the dog even more excited now that he could barely stand still as Jimin took the leash and attached it to his collar. Tannie was tugging on it immediately, making Jimin slightly struggle to lock the doors.
"We're going, we're going." He put the keys in his pocket, showed the empty doggy bags in another before starting to run down the hall to the elevator. On his way out, he greeted their landlord who waved him off happily.
The streets were fairly empty. Most people were still at work, school, university or elsewhere occupied. He walked in a regular pace, letting Tannie explore around. There was a park nearby and Jimin figured that that's where Taehyung usually takes him since he does see a lot of dogs there when he's going home.
On their way there, he got stopped a few times so that people could pet the dog and Tannie was happy to greet each and every one of them. Jimin chatted with them for a bit, not really minding it. He was in a good mood today.
"And here's my worst coworker." He turned to the sound of Yoongi's voice and was met with his famous smirk. He immediately rolled his eyes but his lips betrayed him and he smiled.
"And here's my most annoying coworker." Jimin jokes, earning a huff of air in response. Yoongi crouched down to play with Tannie. They had already met before since Taehyung often comes to the coffee shop so the dog was extra excited to see someone familiar. "Got an off day too?"
"Wasn't supposed to but I have a song to finish by Monday and I'm barely halfway done." Yoongi was a music major, focusing on production and while he enjoyed it, it also took a lot of time. "I'm on my way to grab some food because Jin was about to kill me if I didn't."
"You do tend to forget to eat and drink when you're really focused on doing something." Yoongi was extremely hardworking and Jimin was glad that he had Jin there to remind him that it's good to take a break.
"Yeah…he took away my laptop until I come back with food and eat it." Yoongi got up, turning to Jimin. "By the way, you're still going with me to the festival?"
"Of course, I promised that I will. Besides, it's been a while since we got to hang out." He knows how excited Yoongi is about the festival since one of his songs will be played there. "I still can't believe you've already managed to sell a song. And I hate that you don't want to tell me to whom it is."
"It's a surprise!" Yoongi protested and Jimin just sighed. "I'm starving so I'll see you later. I'll be kind and send you a snippet of the song. Maybe you guess who it is."
"Don't forget!" Jimin yelled after his friend who had already started walking away and only waved in response. He looked after him for few more seconds before continuing the walk, now only few meters away from the entrance of the park.
As soon as he stepped inside, another small dog was by his side and him and Tannie started playing. Jimin looked around for the owner but as far as he could see, neither of the people around him seemed to be looking at them. Jimin lowered himself, the unknown dog standing up on his back legs and leaning on Jimin's knees, waving his tail happy.
"Where is your owner, huh?" He give him a little scratch behind his ears before looking at his collar for the contact info. The metal plate had the dog's name written on the front and the owner's phone number on the back. "Mickey. Should we call someone to get you, Mickey?"
He was about to unlock his phone when he heard shouting coming from further inside the park. Due to how the park was built he couldn't see the person until they rounded the corner so he took Mickey in his arms while Tannie happily walked beside him as they made their way to the corner.
"Mickey! Come here boy!" Jimin could sense the small panic in the man's voice and felt bad for him and moved to meet him but the dog started wiggling in his arms so he quickly had to stop and put him down before he falls. By the time he did that, the man had noticed them and quickly ran to their side. "Dear God, Mickey, you scared the shit out of me. Don't do that again!"
Jimin looked up and was shocked to see a familiar face. Jungkook took the dog in his arms, hugging it closely and letting a sigh of relief. Today, he was more casually dressed. Instead of his black attire from the last time, he wore ripped jeans, white t-shirt and, surprisingly, the same bomber jacket as Jimin. His face mask was pulled down and placed under his chin.
"Jungkook." Jimin spoke before he could stop himself, not really meaning to call for him. Jungkook looked up and he saw surprise flash on his face before he smiled brightly.
"Jimin!" He said cheerfully before putting the dog down and adjusting the leash. "No more running away."
Mickey was too busy playing with Tannie to even acknowledge Jungkook's words.
"You have a dog?" Jimin asked, smiling at the dogs playing before looking up at Jungkook with the same expression.
"No, it's my friend's. He's got a date and asked me to take care of him for a bit. Apparently, I too could use some fresh air. He basically kicked me out of the studio." Jungkook said before cursing in his head.
"A studio?" Jimin realised that he didn't ask about what he actually does last time. "You're working for a music company?"
"Yeah, uh, I do." He nodded. Jungkook wasn't sure how long he could keep his actual job profession a secret but he just wants to be Jungkook now and not an idol Jungkook.
"That's cool. My friend is studying to be a producer. Who knows, maybe one day he'll work for you." Jimin smiled before looking down at Tannie who was pulling on his leash. "OK, OK. We're gonna move."
"Can we join?" Jungkook asked, gesturing at Mickey.
"Sure. C'mon." He pulled on his leash and they started walking. Jungkook immediately pulled up his mask, hoping no one is going to recognize him. It wasn't the best way to hide but it was something.
"What's your dog's name?" The sentence came out muffled which made Jimin look at him, noticing the mask, before focusing straight ahead again.
"Tannie. And it's actually my best friend's." Jimin admitted. "Funny story, he also went on a date and asked me to babysit. Well, dogsit."
"Seriously? What are the odds." Jungkook thought about it for a second, trying to remember if Hoseok told him the name of the guy he was going out with. "Did he tell you who he was going with? Maybe it's the same date."
"He did. It's Hoseok. Do you know him?" Jimin asked and judging by the look on Jungkook's face he does.
"I do! Wow…" Jungkook laughed in disbelief. What were the odds that their friends like each other and that they gave the same responsibility to both of them. "Your friend is on a date with my friend."
"Wild." Jimin laughed too, surprised by the coincidence. "Did Hoseok tell you anything about how they met?"
"Noup, he didn't tell me his name. Apparently, he thinks that that'll stop me from teasing him."
"Well the name is Taehyung so tease on." Jimin smirked and Jungkook returned it before they fist bumped.
"Thank you for your service." Jungkook bowed slightly making them both laugh. After that they were silent for a while before Jungkook spoke again. "Oh, right! I didn't forget about your bike. It's in the workshop, it's just that I was really busy this week and completely forgot to pick it up."
Their last meeting was last week and they had only texted to check that the number was indeed Jimin's but both were unsure if they should have a casual conversation.
"You could've sent me the address. I'd go pick it up myself." Jimin pointed out and Jungkook bit his lip as he thought. Yes, he could've sent him the address but he wanted an excuse to meet up with him again.
"Uh, yeah, I guess I did. It's just, um, it's at the edge of the city and I figured you would waste a lot of time going there instead of me just bringing it to you." Not bad , Jungkook thought to himself after he said it. "I got a feeling that you're very busy with uni and your job."
"That's…very sweet of you actually." Jimin tried to ignore the warm feeling spreading over his body as he locked eyes with Jungkook, both stopping and just staring. Who knows how long that would've lasted if the sound of Jungkook's phone ringing didn't snap them back to reality.
"Hello? Yeah, yeah, uh, I'll be there soon. Alright, bye." Jungkook finished the call and sighed. His heart was still beating fast and as he looked up, Jimin avoiding his gaze and focusing on the dogs. "I have to go. Something came up."
"Mn." Finally, Jimin looked up and this time it was Jungkook's time to look away. He doesn't know what he feels so drawn to Jimin but it sure isn't good for his heart.
"I'll try to get you your bike in the next few days." I hope we meet soon again. "And I plan on taking up on that coffee deal." I really want to see you again.
"I'll be happy to make it." Jimin said, trying his best to have a natural looking smile but once again he doesn't want Jungkook to go. He wishes they could talk for at least few more minutes.
"Well…see you." Jungkook said tugging on Mickey's leash and stepping back but not turning around for a few more steps so that he could look at Jimin a bit more.
Jimin didn't respond and instead of just waved, not moving even with Tannie trying his hardest to pull him further down the path. He didn't know what was going on but he knew that if he keeps seeing Jungkook, he'll definitely fall for him.
Encounter number 3
"Jungkook? Jungkook!" He heard Hoseok scream in his headphones over the microphone in the control room. The noise made him flinch and snap out of his thoughts. When he looked at Hoseok, he was watching him with a raised eyebrow. "Are you ok?"
"Yeah, sorry. Let's try again." He adjusted his headphones and waited for Hoseok to give him a sign to start.
"Alright 3, 2, 1…" He pressed the recording button and looked at Jungkook expectedly.
"Hello! Jeon Jungkook here. Hope you enjoy my new single 'Eternal' coming out this Friday. It'll be a little taste of my new album coming out on March 3rd and I hope you are as excited for it as I am." He followed the script written on the papers in front of him and he tried to sound as happy and excited as he could. He was excited to release his new album, don't get him wrong, but his mind was otherwise occupied this week. Jimin's face just refused to leave his brain and today they agreed to meet up meaning that he was fidgeting all day round, waiting for the clock to strike 5pm. Unfortunately, that also meant that he was was distracted and his work was suffering.
"Alright, good." Hoseok said after Jungkook finished. "You're free to go."
Jungkook smiled brightly and immediately rushed out of the booth to get his stuff. Hoseok stopped what he was doing and looked at him with curiosity and amusement as the younger stumbled around gathering his things.
"Where's my phone? Oh." He noticed it on the table in the corner, quickly grabbing it and looking around if he took everything.
"What's with you?" Hoseok finally asked. He has noticed a shift in him recently and meant to ask him about it but something always came up before he could. "I never saw you this eager to leave work. I thought that being a singer was your dream."
"What? No, no, it's not like that." Jungkook widened his eyes, suddenly realizing that his behavior could be misread. "I am happy, thrilled, it's just that I had something…some one on my mind."
"Is that so?" Hoseok leaned forward, smiling to himself. Jungkook has been teasing him about his crush for a while and now maybe he gets a chance to give him a taste of his own medicine.
"Yeah and it's ridiculous!" Jungkook sat down on the chair opposite of Hoseok, hugging his jacket as he talked. "Do you know how many times we talked? Twice! Well, four if you count the two text conversations we had. And yet…"
"...you can't get him out of your head." Hoseok finished for him and Jungkook sighed before throwing his body back in the chair, slamming against the backrest.
"Yeah…and I want to ask him to hang out more but…" He sighs, looking down at his fingers. "He doesn't know who I am."
"You sure? Your face is kind all over the city now." Hoseok passes by his poster at least 10 times a day.
"I'm sure." Jungkook says confidently and Hoseok looks at him for a while, thinking before he speaks.
"You know I care about you and I'm going to be honest with you." He says and waits for Jungkook to somehow confirm, which he does with a small smile and a nod, before he continues. "The company has nothing against you dating but you need to be prepared for your fans' reactions. You're a hot new thing and it might drive some fans away. It sucks but it is what it is."
"I already thought about it and yeah even if we date, we wouldn't be openly affectionate. Maybe that way they think it's just a friend. I never disclosed my sexuality so…"
"Good." Hoseok says satisfied. "Alright go, don't let your future boyfriend wait for you."
"Shut up." Jungkook blushed slightly which made Hoseok laugh. They said their goodbyes and Jungkook rushed out of the building to his car. Firstly, he needs to go get the bike and then he'll meet Jimin at the coffee shop.
Luckily for him, the owner wasn't busy and could immediately give him the bike. Jungkook fastened it against his car and made sure it won't fall off before going to the coffee shop. When he got there it was 5:12pm so he was running a bit late. Before going in, he put on his mask and a cap.
The bell signaled his entrance and Jimin immediately looked up to him. He wasn't sure if he recognized him because he only got a glance before he had to return to work. Jungkook stood in line and looked around as he waited. The shop was filled with only a several people, mostly students who were busy doing their work.
"Next!" Jimin called and Jungkook turned back and lowered his mask, smile instantly forming on his lips as he saw Jimin. The other returned it, happy to see him. "You came."
"I promised I would." He pointed behind himself with his thumb. "I also brought the bike."
"Yes! I can stop spending money on Uber now." Jimin commented. "You go sit and I'll go make your coffee. You like it strong or should I water it down?"
"Strong is fine. I need something to keep me awake tonight." He could already imagine his body aching. Tonight he'll spend his time going over the choreographies to perfect them.
"Long day at work?" Jimin asked as he walked over to the machine, glancing over to show that he was listening.
"Yeah. I'm not satisfied with few things so I have to fix that." Jungkook said honesty.
"Don't overwork yourself. You're already getting sick, aren't you?" He pointed at his mask before returning to the coffee he was making.
"Just a little." Not at all . Jungkook didn't want to keep lying but he wanted Jimin to get to know him without the most interesting thing being his profession.
"Here you go and go sit, I'll make myself one and join you." Jungkook did as told and chose to sit at nearby table that was partly hidden from the rest thanks to a small wall. He also chose to sit with his back towards the window so that people passing down the street wouldn't be able to see his face. A minute later, Jimin joined him at the table and sat across from him. "Do you like it?"
"Love it." Jungkook said and he actually did. He doesn't know what Jimin did to make it taste different but also very good at the same time but he hopes he'll do it again many times.
"I'm glad to hear it." Jimin straightened up, feeling good about himself. The motion made Jungkook smile.
"Cute." He whispered to himself, looking down at his cup before taking a sip. Jimin leaned down on the table and blew in his cup before taking a sip. Jungkook didn't know how could such a simple thing make his heart skip a beat.
"How much do I owe you?" Jimin asked as he set down the cup and Jungkook looked at him confused, eyebrows furrowed together.
"What?"
"The bike repair." Jimin leaned his head a bit to the left, gesturing outside where it is. "How much was it?"
"No, I'm not taking your money." Jungkook shook his head, not even thinking about asking Jimin to pay him back. As much he didn't like to mention it, he was well off and could spare some money.
"But it's my bike and I inconvenienced you with it." Jimin protested.
"Jimin, I'm not taking your money." Jungkook said firmly. "Besides, it really wasn't a bother."
"But-..." Jimin tried again but with no luck.
"No."
"Jungkook, it really-..."
"What was that? I can't hear you." Jungkook tapped his ear, pretending as if it wasn't working.
"Jung-..."
"It's really windy in here." Jungkook looked around before focusing back on Jimin. "You should fix that."
"Jungkook…" Jimin whined, already laughing at Jungkook's antics.
"Oh! There it is again." Jungkook lifted his index finger up making Jimin roll his eyes while still not being able to contain his laughter.
"Stop…" He whined again, lifting himself up to pull his hand down and pressing it down on the table. "OK, I'm gonna stop asking."
His hand lingered on Jungkook's for a while longer before he realised and pulled back, playing with his fingers. He didn't even notice Jungkook's intense stare on him.
"So, khm, how long can you stay?" Jimin switched the topic, trying to ease the awkwardness. He couldn't read Jungkook's expressions but he knew that he could barely breathe when he looked at him like that. After a while Jungkook looked down and focused on his cup as he spoke.
"About half an hour." Then he picked up his phone from the table to confirm it. "Yeah, I should go back around 6pm"
Jimin nodded not sure what to say next. The things that he wanted to say felt too embarrassing to admit aloud so he chose silence. But he wishes that at least once he gets to spend more than an hour with him. However, he doesn't even know when and if he'll see Jungkook again after this.
"You're alone today?" Jungkook asked, noticing that there was no one else at the counter.
"Yeah, everyone has something but at least I'll get a bigger paycheck for this." He thought he would be exhausted by now but it was fairly peaceful today. He hopes it stays like that. There are only few more hours to go.
"That's good." Jungkook hated the awkwardness and wished that he would just be brave to ask him to hang out. But besides his own fear he also thought about how busy he'll be next month with promotion. "I, uh, I hope that you'll make me this delicious coffee again."
"You'll come again?" Jimin said way too quickly, cursing at himself after it.
"Yeah, of course. I would actually like to get you know a bit more too." Alright, OK, that's progress , he thought.
"I would like to get you know more." Jimin smiled, back in a good mood.
"How about we play 20 questions before I have to leave?" Jungkook suggested.
"Sounds good. You go first." Jimin gestured at him before taking a sip as he waited for Jungkook to think of something.
"Favorite colour?"
"Really?" Jimin raised an eyebrow, pointing out how basic the question is.
"What? It's important knowledge!" Jungkook defended himself, making Jimin laugh.
"Whatever, it's blue. Yours?"
"Red." Opposites attract .
"Last movie you watched?" Jimin asked, already having prepared it.
"Birds of prey."
"Same!" They high fived before moving on. At the beginning the questions were simple like what's your favorite animal or what's your favorite childhood cartoon and then it switched to ridiculous ones like what superpower would you like to have or would you rather be bald or have a mohawk. They messed around and laughed so hard that they started crying. When it was time to go, their moods instantly dropped but Jungkook promised to come back here as soon as he can.
Unfortunately, the problems were just around the corner.
The reveal
When the article was posted, Jungkook was practicing, his phone placed safely in his bag and due to the music playing in the room he didn't hear it vibrating like crazy. Totally oblivious to the news, his only problem was getting the part of the choreography perfect.
Several minutes later his manager, Namjoon, walk in the room. He pushed the door so hard that it slammed against the wall loudly which made Jungkook flinch. When he saw the look on his face, Jungkook immediately ran to turn off the music.
"What's going on?" He walked over to him. Namjoon didn't seem mad but he was very serious which made Jungkook even more anxious.
"That's what I planned to ask you ." Namjoon gestured to him with his head as he said it before crossing his arms over his chest. "Why didn't you tell us you were dating? We don't mind it but at least we would've been prepared."
"Dating? What are you talking about? I'm not dating anyone." Jungkook figured it was one of those articles that paired any random idols just because they looked at each other once. He wasn't prepared for what it actually was.
"Jungkook don't lie to me. You were holding hands in one of the photos." Namjoon pulled out his phone and went to the article to show it to him. Jungkook's heart immediately started racing when he saw Jimin on the photo. They were at the coffee shop, photo cleary taken earlier today, and the person that took the photo must've been inside the bathroom. Without context, they really looked like boyfriends thanks to the big smiles on their face and placement of their hands.
"Fuck…how did they…" Jungkook shook his head as he kept looking at the photo. "Namjoon really, it's not what it looks like. I just met him like two weeks ago and all together we talked for like less than two hours."
"Well those two hours gave really good material to make a story." Namjoon stared at him for a second before sighing and pulling him down to sit. "Read the article and then meet me upstairs so we can figure out what to do. Where's your phone?"
Wordlessly, Jungkook pointed to his backpack thrown into the corner of the room. Namjoon went to retrieve Jungkook's phone before handing it to him, giving him a light tap on the back and leaving him alone.
It was safe to say that Jungkook was panicking. He was sweating more as he typed his name in the search bar than he did practicing. His breathing was shallow and he took a moment to close his eyes and try to calm himself a bit before he passes out. Then, he opened the article.
The idol who's been recently raising in fame, Jeon Jungkook, spotted with his lover.
Jeon Jungkook has only been in the public eye for three years and has already gained a large following and has often taken the number one spot on big music platforms. He is also scheduled to make his comeback on March 3rd with a full studio album that his fans are excitedly anticipating.
The name of the other man is still unknown but, thanks to few sources, we know he that he attends one of the prestigious universities in the city while also working at the 'Red Moon' coffee shop where the two have been seen being lovey-dovey.
How long is the couple together is also unknown as they have been spotted together only recently but have immediately showcased their affection for each other. As it can be seen from the photo, Jungkook is embracing the other man while the other is leaning on him. They didn't share a kiss but also didn't seem to mind that they were surrounded by people passing. After that, Jungkook was seen dropping off his lover at his job.
We've also managed to capture the couple on a date in a park. Jungkook is seen wearing a mask, probably in hopes to keep the fans from bothering them as they stroll down the park with the dogs by their side. It seems that the couple enjoys following the couple trends as they chose to wear the same kind of bomber jacket. Unfortunately, the couple was quick to part. We assume that Jungkook only had so much time in his busy schedule as an idol.
The final photo was sent to us and the source says that the couple seemed to have a great time and even held hands for a while.
We wish the idol the best in his relationship.
Jungkook finished reading, laughing at the final sentence before getting up and kicking the wall in frustration, letting out a scream. After that he leaned against it as he tried to control his anger. Not only did they get it wrong, they revealed Jimin's place of work and he knows that that'll probably bring trouble. As soon as Jungkook started getting more popular, the media was waiting for something in hopes to bring him down.
"Fuck." He said breathless before going to the check the fans' reactions. Even if the whole thing is wrong, he hopes that maybe if something were to happen between them, they'll be supportive. Even though he doubts that Jimin will want anything with him after he reads this.
- It seems that new idols no longer care about their reputations or fans
- Delete this. Putting the other man's place of work is crossing the line. Crazy fans might do something to him.
- You really have nothing better to write about, huh? Why don't you write an article how corrupted you are?
- I really thought he cared about his fans…disappointed
- Some of you are so dramatic. So what if he's dating? He's in his twenties and he's not hurting anyone. I can't believe you think that you're gonna marry him.
- Don't follow him but I don't see a problem. You need to let go off this dumb idea that he belongs to fans and can't have a life outside of his career
- Now I regret buying his albums…
Jungkook read a few more more before locking his phone and going to grab his things. He's happy that there are more positive ones than negative ones but the news just dropped and everything can change by morning.
He rushed out of the practice room to the elevator to go meet Namjoon and the CEO. All he can now think about is how will Jimin take this and he hopes it won't affect him too much. By the time he entered the meeting room, his head was already filled with all kinds of worries and he hoped that the company figured out what to do. All he knows he'll have to talk with Jimin as soon as possible.
"Sit down." The CEO pointed to the chair left of him, opposite of where Namjoon was sat. It was quiet as he did, the ceo and his manager exchanging a look.
"We'll need you to tell us the full story." Namjoon began. "Even if there is nothing between you, the photos might make it hard for fans to believe it if we deny the rumor."
"There is nothing between us. I mean, yeah, I am attracted to him but we are far from dating stage." Jungkook was interested in Jimin but he wasn't in love with him which is what the article pointed at. "I met him when he got hit by a car and feel off his bike. I helped him out and the photo where I hold him is from that day. He almost passed out when I pulled him up, nothing romantic about it. After that I offered to drop him off because he was panicking that he was going to be late to his work."
"Alright and the park date?" The CEO mentioned the location of the second photo, carefully listening to him.
"The whole week I was stressing out about the dance and Hoseok saw me, told me that I needed to get some air and asked me to take his dog out for a while while I'm at it. At the park Mickey ran away from me while I was tying my shoelaces and Jimin found him. That's when we talked for a bit before you called me to come back." Jungkook further explained. "It wasn't a date and the jacket thing was a coincidence."
"And the final photo?" Namjoon spoke, leaning on the table.
"I was just messing around with him and he pulled my hand down, it didn't last more than 5 seconds. It's all taken out of context."
It was silent for a few moments both man thinking.
"How are things on the socials?" The CEO asked, turning to Namjoon who immediately pulled out his phone to check. Meanwhile Jungkook nervously shook his leg.
"Fans are arguing on the article but are mostly on a positive sive. And Twitter…" He was silent for a moment as he opened the app. "...they are trending #mysteryman."
"They are trying to find Jimin." Jungkook said, more to himself than them. "Is it bad?"
"It's not great but they are mostly curious who managed to steal your heart than wanting to attack him."
"They stated where he works...what if something happens to him? That's on me." Jungkook voiced his worry.
"We've already emailed them to take down the article or we'll sue but we still need to give a statement. And if needed, we'll provide Jimin needed protection until things calm down."
"Deny it. It's wrong, we're not dating."
"You have no feelings for him?" His CEO asked.
"I…look, I am attracted to him and yes, I would like get to know him better but I'm not in love. If things need to stop, it's better we end them now than when I get too attached." Jungkook replied honestly.
"Good." The CEO nodded before standing up. "Make sure to contact the other man and prepare yourself for tomorrow. You have an interview scheduled and you need to be careful, media can and will try to twist your words."
Jungkook had completely forgotten about the interview and sighed, sinking in his chair as the two left the room. He hated the idea of not seeing Jimin again but maybe in the end, it's for the best. They led two very different lives.
×
When the article was posted, Jimin had just gotten home and felt too tired to even keep his eyes open. He was dead asleep as soon as he showered and didn't know about the chaos until he woke up the next day with his phone blowing up with messages and several calls from Taehyung.
[Tae☀️]
18 :23
JIMIN
JIMIN!!!!!!!
WHERE ARE YOU???
JIMIN ANSWER
PSPSPSPSPSPS JIMIN PSPSPSPSPSPS
I'm coming over
AYOOOO
DID YOU DIE????
18:30
Alright I'll assume you're asleep
I EXPECT AN EXPLANATION WHEN YOU WAKE UP!!!
I can't believe you didn't tell me about your boyfriend
Yeah I know he's an idol but c'mon!!!
10:32
RISE AND SHINE
C'mon Jimin seriously
They denied it???
What's going on?
11:13
What are you talking about?
Jimin looked at the messages with his eyebrows furrowed. While Taehyung answered, Jimin decided to check other messages. He doesn't remember when was the last time he got this many messages. What shocked him is that even his boss sent him a message.
[Boss]
08:43
Stay home today
It's hectic in here and everyone is looking for you
I suggest you don't go anywhere today
11:14
Yes
Thank you, sir
Jimin still wasn't aware what was going on but he won't miss out on a free day of work.
[Yoongles🎶]
18:33
"I don't have a boyfriend" mmhmm
By the way, your boyfriend bought my song
Tell him if he messes it up, I'll kill him
09:44
I'll kill you too
It's chaotic™ in here
I didn't sign up for this
By the way are you ok? Tae says you're not answering your messages
If you need to talk, I'm here
Might answer a bit late due to how many people suddenly want our coffee
11:15
What are you talking about?
I'm so lost
I'm really not dating anyone
Also thanks, I know you are
Now he started to get worried. He was about to check Twitter when he got a notification from Taehyung.
[Tae☀️]
11:15
The article??
The one about you and Jungkook??
11:15
Tae I have no idea what are you talking about
11:16
They deleted it but hold on
[6 photos]
Here
Jimin felt as if the whole world stopped for a while as he read the title and looked at the photos of him and Jungkook. At first he was shocked, then mad and then just in state of disbelief. It only deepened as he read the article, feeling as he got stuck in some parallel universe.
"Idol?" Jimin shook his head before clenching his jaw when he saw the part about himself. "They said where I work?!"
He stood up from his bed, walking aimlessly around his room, mad at whoever took the photos, whoever wrote the article and Jungkook for lying. Partly, he understood but he still didn't condone it.
Immediately he opened their conversation. He may be an idol and it's probably far more chaotic to him but Jimin deserves an explanation.
[Jungkook]
11:21
We need to talk