Should Be You | Jikook ✔️

Chapter 8

As the school day began, Jungwoo ran straight into the classroom, his small feet pattering on the floor. The moment he saw Jimin, his face lit up with joy, and without hesitation, he sprinted towards his teacher, wrapping his tiny arms around Jimin’s waist.

Jimin, surprised but touched, bent down to Jungwoo's level, gently picking him up. "Good morning, Jungwoo," he greeted warmly, noticing the excitement in the boy’s eyes. "Did you have a good night?"

Jungwoo nodded enthusiastically, his little hands clutching Jimin's shirt as he leaned in closer. "I was thinking about Mr. Park all night!" he confessed, his voice filled with innocent adoration.

Jimin chuckled softly, feeling a warmth spread through his chest. "Really? And what were you thinking about?"

"How you helped me pick what to eat yesterday! And how you always make me feel better when I’m sad," Jungwoo replied earnestly, his eyes wide with sincerity.

Jimin’s heart melted at the boy’s words. He could see just how much Jungwoo needed this kind of affection, and it made him even more determined to be a positive influence in his young life. "Well, I’m glad I could help. But remember, you’re strong, Jungwoo. You can do anything."

Jungwoo nodded, a proud smile on his face as he hugged Jimin tighter. "I know, but it’s easier when you’re around, Mr. Park."

Jimin smiled, his heart heavy with emotion. "I’ll always be here for you, Jungwoo," he promised softly, feeling an overwhelming sense of protectiveness for the child.

After a moment, Jimin gently set Jungwoo down. "Now, tell me, how was your morning? Did you have fun getting ready for school?"

Jungwoo beamed, his little face lighting up as he began recounting his morning. "I was jumping on my bed because I was so excited to come to school and see you! And then the babysitter came, and she was laughing because I was so happy."

Jimin listened attentively, smiling as Jungwoo animatedly described his morning. The child’s enthusiasm was contagious, and it warmed Jimin’s heart to see him so happy.

As Jungwoo finished his story, he looked up at Jimin with big, hopeful eyes. "Mr. Park, can we play with the Legos again today?"

Jimin laughed softly, nodding. "Of course, Jungwoo. We’ll have some time to play after we finish our lessons, okay?"

Jungwoo’s face lit up with joy as he hugged Jimin one last time before joining his classmates. Jimin watched him go, his heart swelling with affection for the little boy. He knew that Jungwoo needed this stability and warmth, and he was more than happy to provide it.

Over the past week, the bond between Jungwoo and Jimin had grown stronger with each passing day. The little boy, who had initially been shy and reserved, now seemed to light up whenever he saw his teacher. Every morning, as soon as Jungwoo arrived at school, he would sprint down the hallway and leap into Jimin's arms. The classroom, once just a place for learning, had transformed into a sanctuary of warmth and laughter.

Jimin had come to cherish these moments, finding solace in the pure and unfiltered affection Jungwoo showered upon him. The boy’s giggles were infectious, filling the room with a joy that Jimin hadn’t felt in years. As the week went on, they developed little routines—inside jokes and rituals that made their bond feel all the more special. Whether it was reading a book together or sharing a snack during break time, Jimin noticed that Jungwoo sought him out constantly, and he was more than happy to give the boy the attention he so clearly craved.

Jungkook, on the other hand, was living in anticipation. His days were usually a blur of meetings, calls, and business deals, leaving little time for personal moments. But this week had been different. His assistant had managed the near-impossible: clearing up three consecutive days on his packed schedule. When Jungkook heard the news, it was as if a weight had lifted off his shoulders.