𝐌𝐫. 𝐊𝐢𝐦 ✓

Fourteen: Trip (I)

The serene melody of the piano transported you into a peaceful realm. Your eyes shut, and you allowed your fingers to glide over the virtual piano keys on your phone. The cool breeze brushing against your face while seated by the tranquil pond heightened the beauty of the moment. Escaping from the crowd, relishing this moment alone was truly the best decision.

"That was amazing!" Mr. Kim's voice startled you, coming from behind. Although you didn't need to turn as he settled beside you. "You really love music, don't you?" His smile was warm. You simply nodded, returning the smile.

"Why are you here, though?" you asked, breaking the comfortable silence. His eyes shifted from the pond to you.

"I was drawn by the melody," he replied, smiling again. His dimples caught your attention, and you couldn't help but smile back.

"It's beautiful here," you murmured, gazing at the night sky while stretching your arms.

"You enjoy it here?" he inquired. A nod accompanied by a warm smile was your response. "Keep going. Let me hear more of your piano playing," he encouraged, his eyes reflecting the starry night, a detail you didn't miss. You smiled and resumed playing, the tranquil melody filling the air and bringing a sense of peace.

As the final notes echoed, a serene silence settled between you.

"Do you have feelings for Jin?" His sudden question caught you off guard, and you turned to him with widened eyes.

"You know, it's not like that," you quickly defended. He gazed into your eyes, seemingly searching for something that wasn't there.

He averted his gaze. "Sorry, I shouldn't have asked like that," he mumbled.

Shaking your head, you offered a faint smile. "It's okay," you reassured. Another silence descended, broken by your unexpected query. "Why did you ask?"

"Ah, it's nothing. Just a thought," he replied, avoiding eye contact. You nodded in understanding. "Let's go... the others might be looking for us," he suggested, standing up. Seeing his offered hand, you hesitated before slowly accepting it, both of you making your way back to the campfire.

The atmosphere was alive with singing and storytelling, and you quietly settled beside Louren as she noticed you. Mr. Kim took a spot on the other side.

"Who's up for some singing?" Nia called out, prompting everyone to gaze around at each other.

"Y/n, how about you sing? We've got a guitar too," Louren suggested, unknowingly putting you on the spot. You attempted to refuse with a forced smile, but it seemed futile.

"Come on, you got this! Show us what you've got, woman!" Jin cheered, giving you a thumbs up and a wink. You felt an urge to kill him, but you opted for another forced smile. Suddenly, the entire crowd, started chanting your name.

You sighed deeply and agreed, "Fine, but I'll just play the guitar." Louren handed you the guitar, and your fingers gracefully danced on the strings, creating a beautiful melody.

The whole crowd fell silent, captivated by the enchanting music, including Mr. Kim. His eyes were fixed on you, an affectionate smile playing on his lips. In that moment, he felt a unique connection with his student. The world seemed to fade away as you locked eyes with him, leaving just the two of you in a serene moment.

As the final notes faded, everyone erupted into applause. "Y/n, you're really talented at this," complimented one of your professors, and you smiled in response.

"Alright, time for everyone to go to the cabins. Tomorrow's going to be a blast," announced Mr. Kim, sparking excitement among the students as they began to head off, including you.