Truth Or Love || Taekook

5

The next day, Taehyung woke up on time, his alarm ringing just as the sun began to rise. He stretched lazily, feeling a lot more rested than the previous morning.

He didn’t rush today, but still, as usual, he didn’t care much about his looks. After taking bath, throwing on a casual outfit—just a simple white tee and jeans—he still looked effortlessly dashing.

His light brown hair fell slightly messy, but it somehow suited him. He glanced at the mirror, shrugged, and left his apartment, his usual confidence carrying him.

As he walked into the university, students turned their heads like always, eyes naturally drawn to his tall, lean frame and particularly his thick, plump ass that stood out in his fitted jeans, though Taehyung didn’t pay any attention to their stares.

He had more important things on his mind, like making it to class without the drama of yesterday.

By the time he reached the classroom, it was still a little early. He walked towards the same desk at the back where he’d sat yesterday.

This time, though, as soon as he spotted Jimin sitting there again, he actually greeted him back, giving him a slight nod.

“Hey,” Taehyung mumbled, dropping his bag onto the desk next to Jimin’s.

Jimin looked up, surprised by the sudden acknowledgment, his lips curving into a bright smile. “Well, good morning to you too, Mr. Silent!” Jimin teased lightly, his tone playful but warm.

Taehyung smirked faintly, feeling more at ease than the day before. “Good morning,” he said, his voice still deep and smooth, but with less of the aloofness from before.

Jimin, clearly happy with the interaction, leaned forward a little. “You know, I wasn’t sure if you even spoke yesterday. Thought maybe I scared you off.”

Taehyung raised an eyebrow and glanced at him sideways. “I’m not that easy to scare,” he replied dryly, but there was a hint of amusement in his voice.

Jimin laughed softly, the sound light and infectious. “Well, that’s good to know. I was starting to think I might be too much for you.”

Taehyung shook his head, cracking a rare smile. “I can handle it.”

They exchanged a few more casual words, small talk about the class they were about to have. Taehyung found himself actually enjoying the conversation, even if it was short.

He still didn’t say much, but his responses were no longer curt or dismissive, and Jimin seemed pleased with the progress.

Just before the lecture started, Jimin gave Taehyung a quick nudge. “Hey, if you ever need anything, just let me know, alright? I’ve got your back.”

Taehyung looked at him, surprised but appreciative. “Thanks. I’ll keep that in mind.”

With that, the class started, and Taehyung turned his attention to the lesson, feeling a bit lighter than he had the day before.

It wasn’t much, but the small exchange with Jimin made him realize maybe not everyone at this university was a jerk. Maybe, just maybe, he could let his guard down—just a little.

_____

As soon as the class ended, Taehyung began packing his things, sliding his notebooks into his bag with practiced ease. He had gotten through the day much smoother than yesterday, and he was ready to unwind a little.

As he zipped up his bag and was about to sling it over his shoulder, he heard Jimin’s voice from beside him.

“Hey, Taehyung,” Jimin called out, a friendly smile on his face. “Do you have more classes, or are you heading to your dorm?”

Taehyung didn't correct him when jimin mentioned dorm. He paused, glancing at Jimin for a second before responding in his usual calm tone, “I don’t have any more classes today. I was thinking about heading to the library for a bit, or maybe the cafeteria. I didn’t get a chance to try their food yesterday, and I’m starving.”

Jimin’s eyes lit up at the mention of the cafeteria. “Oh, really? Let’s go together then! I’m starving too. Cafeteria food might not be gourmet, but it’s better than nothing.”

Taehyung hesitated for a moment, his mind racing with quick thoughts. Normally, he would have brushed off the offer, preferring his own company over spending time with someone new.

But then he remembered Tessa’s words from last night, Don’t be a jerk to good people, she had told him. Jimin had been nothing but kind and welcoming so far, and Taehyung figured it wouldn’t hurt to at least try to be a bit more social.

He nodded slightly, letting out a small sigh as if mentally preparing himself for socializing. “Yeah, alright. Let’s go.”

Jimin’s smile widened, clearly happy with Taehyung’s decision. “Awesome! I promise you won’t regret it. I’ve already scoped out the best stuff to eat.”

The two of them walked out of the classroom side by side. Taehyung walked with his usual calm, confident stride, while Jimin had a light bounce in his step, clearly excited about food and the unexpected company.

As they made their way through the campus toward the cafeteria, Jimin kept up a light conversation, talking about anything from the day’s classes to random bits of campus life.

Taehyung listened quietly, occasionally nodding or offering a small comment, but he wasn’t feeling the pressure to talk, which made it easier for him to relax.

When they finally reached the cafeteria, the buzz of students talking, the clatter of trays, and the smell of various foods filled the air.

Taehyung scanned the room, taking in the crowded tables and long lines. He was a little hesitant at first, but Jimin led the way confidently.

“Come on, trust me,” Jimin said, flashing Taehyung a grin. “The food’s better than it looks.”

Taehyung chuckled under his breath. “I’ll take your word for it.”

They grabbed trays and moved through the line, Jimin pointing out what was worth trying and what wasn’t. Taehyung found himself surprisingly at ease, not minding the casual back-and-forth.

As they finally sat down with their trays, Jimin eagerly took a bite of his food and made an exaggerated, satisfied noise. “See? Not bad, right?”

Taehyung took a bite of his own food and nodded, the flavors not exactly mind-blowing but better than he expected. “Not bad,” he agreed.

Jimin laughed. “I told you! You’ll learn to appreciate the little things around here.”

Taehyung glanced at Jimin, appreciating his upbeat energy. He wasn’t used to having someone stick around like this, but maybe it wasn’t so bad after all.

As they ate, he found himself a little more open, exchanging more words than usual, though still keeping his responses measured and cool. All the while, he kept in mind Tessa’s advice, reminding himself that Jimin was the kind of person he could get along with.

_____

Boring chapter, I know 🙂