Two halves as a whole (Jikook)

Chapter - 20

After Jimin and Jungkook returned to Seoul, Jinha and Grandma acted like they hadn't seen them in years. The moment the two stepped through the door, Jinha practically pulled them both into tight hugs, fussing over how much they'd been missed. Grandma showered them with love, her eyes twinkling with warmth.

Jungkook and Jimin exchanged knowing glances—they were keeping their relationship a secret at home and in university, as per Jimin's request. Jimin had made it clear that he didn't want the added stress of dealing with Jungkook's obsessed fans at university; he just wanted to focus on his studies and stay on track with his goals. Jungkook respected that, though he found it hard not to show his affection openly now after confessing his love. The only exception to their secrecy would be Hwan—Jimin agreed to tell him, knowing that if Hwan ever found out later, he'd never forgive Jimin for hiding something so important.

The next day, they returned to university, and during their break, Hwan excitedly shared everything he did over the holidays. When it was Jimin's turn to talk, he hesitated at first but eventually opened up about everything that happened. He spoke about the misunderstandings with Jungkook, how Jungkook had come to Busan, and all the places they visited together. He aalso shared about attending Kim Namjoon and Seokjin's beach wedding.

When Jimin finished, Hwan leaned in with a dramatic gasp, eyes wide. "So, you gave away your first kiss?!" he exclaimed, clearly stuck on the most romantic detail.

Jimin blinked at him in disbelief, shaking his head. "That's what you're focusing on?"

Hwan wasn't letting it go. "I just left you for a few days, and look what happened! Where's my innocent Mochi?!" he teased, smirking playfully.

Before Jimin could respond, Min-hoo joined them, his cheerful presence lighting up the group. Jimin quickly shot Hwan a look, silently begging him not to say anything about Jungkook. Hwan caught the signal and nodded, lips sealed.

"What were you guys talking about?" Min-hoo asked, looking between them curiously.

"Just what we did during the break," Hwan replied smoothly, nodding in agreement with Jimin.

"Great, I want to hear all about it too!" Min-hoo said, settling in. Hwan went first, sharing his holiday stories with energy, making everyone laugh. Then it was Jimin's turn again, and he recounted his break, carefully leaving out the more personal details about his relationship with Jungkook.

Min-hoo shared his own experiences from the break, cracking a few jokes along the way, which had them all laughing. Jimin, caught in a fit of giggles, leaned on Min-hoo's shoulder as he often did when laughing. His blonde hair shimmered in the sunlight streaming through the window, and his laughter was infectious.

As Min-hoo sat next to him, feeling the light touch of Jimin's shoulder and hearing the sweet sound of his laughter, something stirred in his heart. The simple act of being close to Jimin, the way his soft hair brushed against him, sent an unexpected rush of warmth through Min-hoo.

Jimin, oblivious to the effect he was having, remained in his own world, laughing without a care.

Min-hoo blinked, trying to shake off the feeling. He didn't know what to make of it, but for the first time, he found himself thinking about Jimin in a way he hadn't before.