The small town (jikook)

The Return

Woonhae was the kind of small town where everybody knew your name, your family history, and your business—whether you liked it or not. Nestled between rolling hills and a winding river, it held the charm of old brick buildings, cozy cafes, and the comforting scent of fresh pastries wafting through the air. Jimin had grown up in this town, and for the past few years, he had poured his heart and soul into "The Daily Brew," the little café that had become a second home to him.

Inside, the café was a haven of warmth and laughter. Sunlight streamed through the large front windows, casting a golden glow on the rustic wooden tables adorned with potted plants. The walls were lined with bookshelves, filled with novels and local art, reflecting the town's creative spirit. Jimin was behind the counter, his apron dusted with flour as he prepared his signature mocha for a regular. He loved this place—the routine, the familiarity, and the way the community came together.

But today, there was an undercurrent of excitement that Jimin couldn't shake. News had traveled fast: Jungkook was back. The prodigal son of Woonhae, who had left for the bright lights of the city, was returning after years away, and everyone seemed eager to celebrate.

Jimin felt a familiar twist of irritation in his stomach at the thought. It wasn't just that Jungkook was back; it was everything he represented. While Jungkook had chased his dreams, Jimin had stayed behind, tending to the café and keeping the town's heartbeat steady. Now, it felt like the town was poised to roll out the red carpet for someone who had abandoned them.

As the bell above the door jingled, Jimin glanced up, and his breath caught in his throat. There he was. Jungkook stood at the entrance, a silhouette of casual confidence, his dark hair tousled, and a guitar slung over his shoulder. He looked effortlessly cool, and the townspeople greeted him with warmth, a hero returned.

"Long time, no see, Jimin," Jungkook called, stepping inside as if he owned the place. His smile was charming, but it only fueled Jimin's annoyance.

"Glad to see you're still riding the wave of your own ego," Jimin shot back, forcing a smile. He leaned against the counter, arms crossed, trying to project an air of indifference.

Jungkook chuckled, unfazed by Jimin's sarcasm. "I missed this place. And you."

"Right. Just here for coffee, or are you planning on charming the whole town again?" Jimin asked, the bite in his tone sharper than he intended.

"Depends. I might need that extra strong coffee to deal with all the nostalgia." Jungkook flashed his signature grin, a mix of mischief and warmth that had always driven Jimin crazy.

As he moved closer, Jimin caught the faint scent of Jungkook's cologne, a reminder of all the memories they had shared, both good and painful. "You still think you can waltz back in here and pick up where you left off?" Jimin challenged, pouring coffee a little too forcefully into a cup.

"Maybe I'm just here to reconnect," Jungkook replied, his gaze steady and searching.

Jimin felt a flicker of something—longing, resentment, maybe both. "Reconnect? Or is it just to put on a show?"

Jungkook's eyes narrowed slightly, but the smile remained. "What's wrong with a little show? Woonhae could use some excitement."

"Excitement? Or a distraction from reality?" Jimin retorted, his heart pounding with a mixture of anger and confusion.

With a grin that made Jimin's stomach twist, Jungkook picked up the steaming cup. "Thanks, Jimin. It's good to be back."

As Jungkook stepped out, laughter followed him, and Jimin watched, feeling a storm of emotions brewing inside. It was as if the years apart hadn't changed anything at all; Jungkook still had the power to make him feel alive, infuriated, and undeniably drawn to him.

But as much as Jimin tried to shake it off, he knew this wasn't just a simple reunion—it was the beginning of something complicated. And he wasn't sure if he was ready for it.