Nascent

Chapter Twenty

On a sunny May afternoon, you sit on your balcony, the warm breeze rustling the leaves of nearby trees as you focus on your daily word search puzzle. The sun casts a golden hue over everything, promising the onset of summer. Your curls cascade down your shoulders, framing your face as you concentrate on the grid of letters before you.

From the corner of your eye, you notice Jimin stepping out onto his balcony next door. He leans casually against the railing, a smile playing on his lips as he calls out, "Hey, neighbor! What are you doing?"

You look up, returning his smile. "Strengthening my mind so I don't get dementia when I'm 60."

Jimin chuckles, his laughter light and melodic. "Well, how's life?"

Turning in your seat, you give him a playful shrug. "Well, you know the answer. At home, reading. Nothing much."

He raises an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, wanna spice it up?"

You tilt your head, curiosity piqued. "How about we go on another practice date? You know, the picnic you suggested the other day in the park."

A smirk forms on your lips as you nod. "I know just the one."

Jimin's grin widens. "Okay, so when do we get started?"

"Meet me down at 5 pm," you reply, feeling a rush of excitement.

"You're the boss," he says with a wink before heading back inside.

You return to your apartment, anticipation bubbling within you. You decide on a flowy long pastel pink floral skirt and a matching strapped cropped top with a bow in the middle. You add some gold accessories, letting your curls cascade down the front. After putting on your matching pink flats and sunglasses, you take a final look in the mirror, satisfied with your ensemble.

Descending to the ground floor, you step outside to find Jimin waiting with a picnic basket in hand. His outfit—a pink collared shirt and grey off-white trousers, his hair slicked back—makes him look effortlessly charming. He holds a jacket draped over his arm.

"Oh, you're wearing pink too?" you remark, noticing the matching colors.

"I guess we're telepathically connected," Jimin replies with a grin.

"And you're not so bad yourself," you reply, appreciating his look. "Suitable for dates."

Jimin chuckles, adjusting the jacket. "I brought this in case you get cold."

"Trying to gain bonus points already, huh?" you tease.

"Is it working?" he shoots back with a grin.

"Bonus points get tallied at the end, so I'll let you know," you reply, both of you laughing.

"Looking forward to it," Jimin says, handing you the basket. You open it to find lemon cake, water, and very appetizing sandwiches.

"You went all out," you say, impressed.

"Anything to impress my mentor," Jimin replies with a wink.

"Are you sure that's who you want to impress?"

"You know what they say: no one is better than a teacher other than their own student."

"Well, come along then, kid. Let me show you how it's done." You put on your sunglasses, leading the way to your car.

You both climb into the car, and as you start driving, you turn on your current favorite song, "Paroles, Paroles" by Dalida. The gentle, melodic tune fills the space as you roll down the windows. The fresh, summery breeze sweeps through the car, mingling with the music and creating a delightful, ambient atmosphere perfect for a date. The sun casts long, golden rays, adding a warm glow to the scene outside.