hidden in plain sight

Chapter 1 - The Great Pretender

Mist flew through the air as he walked. The land was filled with fog that was so hard to see. He could hear the noises of people chatting as he passed by homes, shops, cafes, and taverns. He could hear all of that chatter but he still felt as if he was alone in the world like there was a burning darkness surrounding him. The weight was heavy and almost unbearable. Having to be alone or just simply having no one that paid mind to him, was overwhelming. He missed physical interaction. He truly did. There are days when he is tempted to leave his home when the sun is shining bright and there is no fog shielding him from the rest of the world. He has never once acted on it. He didnt know exactly why he couldnt get himself to leave, maybe because he was scared of getting judged, and for what, there was nothing to judge about him. Well, besides the fact that he was the known homo of the land. Whenever he was out people would call him a faggot, they would spit on him, would cross the street to avoid him like he had the plague.

So, he walked with his hands in his pockets, if he saw anyone he would hide somewhere and let them pass by before he started walking again. Soon he reached his destination, it was a small store that sold fruits, vegetables, and a few different household needs. Walking in he was hit by a rush of familiarity and it brought a smile to his face. He looked over and saw the familiar old man sitting behind his counter ready for anyone to check out. Hi sir, the man spoke before he bowed.

"Hi Jimin, it has been a while." Jimin nodded at the man before he started walking around to search for what he needed. He collected himself some toiletries and a few snacks to hold him over for the next few days. Once he was done looking he went to the counter. "Did people give you trouble on your way here?"

"I was able to hide whenever I saw someone so I was lucky." He spoke before a small chuckle fell from his lips. The old man sighed before he raised his hand and patted Jimin's head.

"Im sorry son. He spoke before he started cashing the items he had brought up to the counter. My grandson is coming soon, I would like you to meet him." Jimin's eyes flashed up to the man quickly with almost a panicked look on his face.

"But sir, you shouldnt let your grandson be by a faggot like me, he may get the disease as well." There was sadness lacing his voice but he ignored it. The old man stopped in an instant and looked at Jimin with hard eyes.

"Jimin, I will repeat this, you are not a faggot, you are a normal person who just likes someone of the same gender. It is not a disease, you are you and should be proud of it." To say the least, the old man thought of Jimin as a son, he was someone he loved and believed to deserve the world, no matter who he likes.

A sigh fell from Jimins lips before he looked down and nodded. "Okay, I will meet him." His voice came out small and timid. The man watched him before he finished ringing him up. He then told him the price and Jimin paid him.

"Come back tomorrow, he will be here." Jimin simply nodded to him. He then forced a smile as he walked out. Leaving the store left a new hole in his heart. As he walked home the fog started to lift. People were able to see him from afar so he started walking faster, he needed to get home before others started attacking him or calling him names. Soon enough he did reach home. The fog had completely lifted by then but he was lucky enough to get back. As he walked in he was greeted by his best friend's dog Yeontan. "Hi, sweetie." He spoke to the little dog before picking him up. He then walked to the kitchen and set the items he bought earlier down.

"Minnie come here!" His friend called out as he heard things being set down on the table. Jimin walked over to the lounge room and walked inside.

"Yes, Tae?" He asked as he petted the dog in his hands. Soon enough the pup got restless and wanted to be with his father. Jimin set him down before walking over to a small couch that they had, he sat himself down on the soft cushions. He looked over at the other male as he sat down. He had to be honest, hes always had a crush on his best friend, even when they were in primary school. When they were younger they did everything together. They became friends one day when their parents met at an AA meeting. Jimins father was an alcoholic along with Taehyungs father. Their fathers had brought them to a meeting one day and the two of them kicked it off instantly. Soon after they started having play dates and got even closer throughout the years. Taehyung was the first person Jimin came out to. When he did he was honestly expecting the other to lose it on him. Luckily for him, he didnt. His best friend is gay as well but no one besides Jimin knows. When the boy came out to his father though, that was another story. He had shown ups the next day with bruises littering his skin. Ever since then, Taehyung has been very protective of Jimin.