/My Secret Crush / Jikook~

58

Jimin returned to university after a weekend with Jungkook, feeling a mix of relief and anticipation. The bank messages about his competition prize and internship money had brightened his mood, but soon the demands of studying took over. He immersed himself in library sessions, rarely seeing Jungkook as he prepared for exams. Once the exams were over, Jimin stayed with Jungkook for two more days.

On the night before his departure, Jimin asked, "How are you planning to spend New Year's?"

"I'll be home watching the New Year Festival Gala," Jungkook replied with a playful smile. "Then I'll wait for you to find me to chat."

Jimin, munching on chips, suggested cautiously, "Do you want to come to Seoul to celebrate New Year's with me? If not, I can come to see you."

Jungkook raised an eyebrow, teasing, "I'll see later on."

With only half a month left before New Year's, Jimin worried about ticket availability. He mumbled, "You should decide quickly. If you're not up for traveling, I'll come to you."

"Don't worry too much," Jungkook said with a smile, "I'll Remember it every day."

The next morning, Jimin booked his flight. At 6:00 a.m., Jungkook woke him up. After a quick breakfast, Jungkook drove him to the airport. Jimin's suitcase was packed and ready, so there was no last-minute rush.

At the airport, Jimin hesitated before going through security. He clung to Jungkook, chatting and giving him reminders as if trying to prolong their time together. Jungkook listened attentively, his interest evident.

When it was time to say goodbye, Jimin hugged Jungkook tightly, reluctant to let go. "Don't forget to decide about New Year's," Jimin said softly.

Jungkook nodded, planted a soft kiss on jimin's lips. "I'll think about it."

Jimin added, "I hope you can come, but don't feel pressured. If you don't, we can always video call."

Jungkook smiled, tightening his hold on jimin. "Do you want to go now or...?"

Jimin, slightly annoyed, replied, "I'm going now. I just wanted to talk a little more."

"If you don't go inside now, I might not let you go," Jungkook said, looking at Jimin with affection.

Reluctantly, Jimin pulled back and walked through security, casting one last glance at Jungkook. Jungkook watched him leave, a smile on his face but a trace of conflict in his eyes as he thought about the upcoming New Year.

~~~

As Jimin stepped out of the airport, he decided not to bother his busy father for a ride home. Instead, he hailed a taxi and settled in for the journey to his house. The familiar sights of Seoul passed by outside the window, and Jimin felt a sense of relief and nervousness wash over him as he returned home.

When he arrived, his mother greeted him at the door with a warm, enveloping hug. "Jiminie, you're back! How was your journey?"

Jimin smiled, feeling the tension melt away as he hugged her back. "It was good, Mom," he replied, breathing in the familiar scent of her perfume. He looked around the living room, taking in the familiar sights.

"Where's Hyung?" he asked, scanning the room for his brother.

His mother replied, "He's at work, but he'll be back later. Let's talk over dinner. Go freshen up, and I'll make your favorite food - bibimbap!" She smiled, knowing how much Jimin loved the dish.