THE LAST CALL | VMIN

(2) Competition

As the sun cast its golden rays over the tranquil Nepalese morning, Taehyung bustled around his cozy cafe, preparing for another day of serving the locals and the occasional mountaineers who passed through.

His shoulders slumped with the weight of exhaustion and the persistent ache of depression that seemed to cling to him like a heavy shroud.

As he wiped down the tables and straightened the chairs, Taehyung noticed a familiar figure making his way through the door.

It was him,

As Jimin settled into his usual spot, Taehyung watched him with a mixture of curiosity and admiration.

He had always found solace in observing the interactions of others, and there was something about Jimin's carefree nature that captivated him.

When another employee made a move to take Jimin's order, Taehyung stopped him with a gentle hand on his arm.

"I'll take care of this,"

Taehyung said softly, offering the other employee a small smile before turning his attention to Jimin.

Approaching Jimin's table, Taehyung felt a flutter of nervousness in his chest.

"Good morning, Jimin. What can I get for you today?"

he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

Jimin's eyes lit up as he looked up at Taehyung, his smile warm and genuine.

"Hey, Taehyung! I'll have a waffle and-"

"A medium sized cold coffee?"

The taller male asked, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

Jimin chuckled while nodding

"Yup"

"Alright! Give me a minute"

Taehyung couldn't help but be drawn in by Jimin's infectious positivity.

As he took Jimin's order and prepared his waffle and "medium sized cold coffee", he found himself stealing glances at the mountaineer, admiring the way he seemed to bring a sense of joy wherever he went.

As Jimin enjoyed his meal, Taehyung couldn't shake the feeling of warmth that had settled in his chest.

There was something about Jimin's presence that made him feel lighter, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.

He found himself longing for more of Jimin's company and the sense of comfort it brought him.

Just like that 3 months went by with them being great friends getting to know each other better.

Taehyung told him how his parents did not support him when he told them he wanted to make a career in singing.

So he ran away from his house and came to Nepal to pursue his dream. He was extremely lonely and depressed until jimin came into his life.

He sat at his usual place. Taehyung came and placed his order on the table. They gave each other a smile and taehyung was about to leave when jimin held his hand stopping him from leaving.

Tae looked back at their hands ,feeling his blood rushing to his cheeks, standing awkwardly. Poor guy's heart started beating fast at the touch.

Jimin sensed his awkwardness and left his arm immediately while apologising

"I'm so sorry for that"

"Ah it's alright. Not a big deal"

He said as if he was chill but from the inside his heart was going crazy and his red cheeks were telling a whole different story.

"Yeah...so I wanted to tell you about this music competition that is going to happen in a few days nearby. They even have a prize for the winner. I think you should participate"

Min said sipping onto his cold coffee

Taehyung looked at Jimin with a mixture of surprise and uncertainty.

"Me? Participate in a singing competition? I don't know, Jimin. I don't think I have the confidence for something like that,"

Taehyung replied, his voice tinged with self-doubt.

"Oh come on...It's going to be huge and you should totally participate. You sing well"

Taehyung just looked down biting on his lower lip

Jimin leaned forward, his expression earnest.

"Tae, you have an incredible voice. You have so much talent, and I believe in you. You just need to believe in yourself too. This competition could be your chance to shine and show the world what you're capable of."

Taehyung sighed, running a hand through his hair.

"I don't know, Jimin. It's just...I've always struggled with confidence when it comes to my singing. What if I mess up on stage? What if people don't like my performance? You remember what happened at our first encounter...You said that my singing is average"

Jimin reached out and placed a comforting hand on Taehyung's shoulder.

"I understand your fears, Tae. But remember, the only way to overcome them is by facing them head-on. I am sorry for that day but It was just me who said that...Others were appreciating you right? And I'll be right there with you every step of the way. We can practice together, and I'll help you build your confidence. You won't be alone in this."

Taehyung looked at Jimin, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and uncertainty.

"I appreciate your support, Jimin. But I just don't know if I'm ready for something like this."

Jimin took a deep breath and looked Taehyung in the eyes.

"Tae, I have something to tell you. I hope you won't be mad, but...I already signed you up for the competition."

Taehyung's eyes widened in shock.

"You what?"

He yelled in shock but then realised it was a public place and looked around to see other people giving him a weird look. He gave them an apologetic smile while bowing to them saying sorry. He then turned to the male in front of him.

"Jimin, why would you do that without asking me first?"

Jimin smiled sheepishly.

"I did it because I believe in you, Tae. I know you have what it takes to win this competition. And even if you don't win, the experience will be invaluable for you. Trust me, I wouldn't have done it if I didn't believe in you wholeheartedly."

Taehyung was speechless for a moment, processing Jimin's words. He felt a mix of emotions swirling inside him – surprise, gratitude, and a glimmer of hope.

"Jimin, I don't know what to say,"

Taehyung finally spoke, his voice filled with emotion.

"Thank you for believing in me, even when I struggle to believe in myself. I'll give it my all, for you and for myself."

Jimin beamed with pride, feeling a sense of relief washed over him.

"That's all I ask for, Tae. We'll work hard together and make sure you're fully prepared for the competition. I know you can do this."

As jimin made his way out of the cafe, Taehyung couldn't help but smile like a stupid at this encounter.

Jimin's words kept ringing in his head causing him to giggle but his little bubble popped when the owner of the cafe called him

"Yes sir! Coming!!"

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