Beyond The Friend Zone [Taekook]

Climbing for Berries and Waiting for Fish (12)

The class were quickly divided into two groups: Team A would head to the river for fishing, while Team B was tasked with berry picking. Each student must stick with their partner, ensuring that no one wandered off alone in the vast forest. Since both activities required adult supervision, Ms. Aera took charge of Team A, while Mr. Kim, a seasoned forest guide, was assigned to Team B.

However, fate had a way of separating friends, and much to Jungkook’s dismay, he found himself assigned to Team B, while Taehyung was placed in Team A. The moment Jungkook heard this, his heart sank. Determined not to be separated from Taehyung, he attempted to sneak over to Team A, hoping to join him unnoticed. But Dao Li, with her sharp eyes, caught him in the act and quickly pulled him back to his designated group.

Jungkook wasn't one to give up easily. He made another attempt, trying to blend in with the other students in Team A. But before he could even take a few steps, Ms. Aera’s voice rang out sternly, “Jungkook, stay with your team!” Caught red-handed, he had no choice but to return to Team B, his shoulders slumping in defeat.

With everyone in their respective groups, Team A set off first. Their destination was further into the forest, toward the eastern side where the river flowed. The students, each carrying a fishing rod, were buzzing with excitement. For many of them, this was their first time fishing, and the thrill of the unknown adventure was palpable. As they made their way through the thick foliage, the sound of the flowing river grew louder, a constant reminder of the natural world they were about to immerse themselves in.

When they arrived at the riverbank, they were greeted by a breathtaking sight. The clear water sparkled under the sunlight, and a family of deer stood gracefully at the edge of the river, sipping from the cool water. The students were in awe, their whispers filled with wonder.

“They’re so cute!” one of the students whispered, her eyes wide with admiration.

“Shhh! You’ll scare them away!” another student cautioned, holding a finger to her lips.

“I wish I had a camera,” someone else murmured, mesmerized by the serene scene.

Ms. Aera, aware of the students’ fascination, gently guided them further along the riverbank, away from the deer. “Remember,” she said softly, “we’re guests in this forest. This is their home, so let’s be quiet and respect their space.”

She led the group to a quieter spot along the river and set clear boundaries where they could fish. The students eagerly spread out, searching for the perfect place to cast their lines. Taehyung allowed Mira to choose their spot. She picked a shaded area beneath a cluster of large trees, away from the direct sunlight. Taehyung silently began setting up the fishing equipment, while Mira stood by, watching him with quiet admiration.

“You’re really good at things like this,” she remarked, her voice filled with appreciation.

Taehyung didn’t respond verbally but gave a small nod in acknowledgment, his focus remaining on the task at hand.

Ms. Aera observed her students with pride. She could see how seriously they were taking the activity, their youthful determination shining through. “Everyone, remember to move slowly and carefully so you don’t scare the fish away,” she advised. “Fishing requires patience. Don’t give up easily, even if you don’t catch anything right away!”

“Yes, Ms. Aera!” the students replied in unison, their voices filled with enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the forest, Team B was making their way to the berry-picking area, which just so happened to be near the spot where Jungkook had stolen apples from the monkeys earlier that morning. As they walked, Jungkook looked around, a hint of recognition flickering in his eyes.