MATCHSTICK [PJM]

3: Breakable

"Bye, guys. It was good to meet you. Let's hang out some other time," the cheerful man spoke as he flashed a contagious smile.

Jimin couldn't help but grin back as he shook his friend's hand. Aria, also smiling politely, stood by him. She nodded her head as to say goodbye.

"Bye, Hoseok. We'll catch you sometime."

Hoseok waved his hand before turning away and making his way out. The pair proceeded towards Jimin's car, closing the door shut. The early morning had set them in a rather pleasant mood as compared to the tense happenings of the previous night.

Cool winds gushed as the artistically themed streets remained devoid of people. Huge dull clouds decorated the atmosphere, signaling people to gather their umbrellas. For once, Jimin could relax knowing that he wasn't the only one who saw grey in the sky.

The two stayed still in the silent interior of the car, recollecting the carefree conversations they had shared with their mutual friend, Hoseok, during breakfast. If they were being honest, the hearty meal was the highlight of their weeks.

Jimin's grin shook off as he sported his all too familiar stern look. From the corner of his eyes, he could feel Aria repeatedly glance at him. He could feel a sense of wariness and doubt radiating from her, yet she had chosen to stay put. He wasn't sure if he wanted to know what was going on in her mind.

"I've got practice in the evening, so I won't able to pick you up from work," Jimin spoke.

"It's okay. I'll catch the bus."

The man took a sharp turn as he quietly drove towards Aria's workplace. After doing so, he had to attend practice. Sudden memories of last night struck him; all the encounters that he had with himself. Uneasiness loomed in his stomach. The strain, insecurities and the constant perfecting of his dance moves invaded his mind. Jimin sighed deeply, fully aware of all the impending work he had left to do, partially terrified as to how his day would come out to be.

Finally, after twenty minutes of eerie silence, the car was pulled up in front of a bakery. Jimin waited for Aria to get off but confusedly peered at her when she didn't budge. Aria uncomfortably stared back.

"Can't you smile at all?" she asked, hesitation overpowering her words. Jimin scrunched his brows in confusion.

"What?"

"Hobi probably didn't notice it. But if anyone else saw how dry you look when you're with me, they're gonna think that I am torturing you."

Jimin rolled his eyes at her statement as he replied, "I can't fake something just so that people don't get the wrong idea."

"I know, but when was the last time you've truly genuinely smiled?"

Jimin looked down at his steering wheel; trying his best to avoid eye contact. He grew quiet.

Aria only grew impatient. "What is going on with you now?"

Jimin shifted uncomfortably in his seat as his grip tightened on the steering wheel. His head turned to the window as he pleaded in silence for her to drop it.

How the hell was she going to help him out anyway?

"Jimin," Aria pushed as she demanded an answer.

Slowly and cautiously, Jimin mumbled, "It's just the usual."

"Are your thoughts acting up again?"

Jimin winced as an alarm rang in his head. He didn't want to talk have this conversation again. Why did she have to bring this up right now? What did she get out of this.