Hidden Desires [Park Jimin X Character]

Chapter 3

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Three days had passed, and Mae was still adjusting to university life, though her initial nerves had eased. She still felt a little out of place, but with Minji by her side, things weren't as overwhelming.

Minji's playful banter and easygoing demeanor made Mae feel more at home in the bustling campus halls.

As they strolled down the corridor after class, Minji eyed Mae with a hint of concern. "Mae, you sure you don't need a ride home?" she asked, crossing her arms and giving her a skeptical look. "I don't mind, you know."

Mae chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Thanks, Minji, but I'll be alright. Don't worry about me," she replied with a reassuring smile. This was the third time Minji had offered, but Mae preferred the independence of her bus rides.

Minji sighed, lowering her arms with a small shrug. "Alright, but you know you can ask me anytime," she said, her voice laced with both exasperation and warmth.

As they turned a corner, a boy suddenly appeared in front of them, his breaths coming heavy, as if he'd been running.

He was tall, with dark hair ruffled over his forehead, dressed in a red sweater paired with black pants, and a cream-colored scarf that fluttered as he halted. Straightening up, he shot Minji a teasing smile.

"Minji, your boyfriend's waiting for you."

Mae blinked, slightly taken aback, glancing at Minji in surprise. She didn't recall Minji mentioning a boyfriend.

Minji let out an exasperated sigh, her gaze hardening. "First of all, Jongsuk, stop calling him that," she huffed, crossing her arms, "and second, why the hell is he even here?"

Jongsuk shrugged, catching his breath. "No idea," he replied, a mischievous grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "He just said he wanted to see you."

Mae shifted awkwardly beside them, sensing she'd stumbled into a private exchange.

Jongsuk seemed to notice her discomfort, and his gaze softened as he looked her over with a friendly interest. "You're Mae, right? Bora Mae?" he asked with a warm smile, extending a hand.

She hesitated, then shook his hand gently. "Yes... nice to meet you," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper, feeling oddly self-conscious under his gaze.

"Are they real?" Jongsuk asked, narrowing his eyes with a playful tilt to his head.

Mae blinked, confused for a second, until she realized what he meant. She touched her cheek self-consciously. "The freckles? Yes... they're real," she murmured, a little shy.

He chuckled, nodding in approval. "Cool. I don't think I've ever seen natural freckles up close. They suit you," he said, flashing her a charming grin. Minji chuckled, giving Mae a knowing smile.

"Mae, I've gotta run," Minji said, turning back to her with a grin. "I'll tell you more about him later," she added with a wink, resting a hand on Mae's shoulder.

"Don't wait for me after class, alright? I'll be heading out with a friend. But if you need anything," she glanced at Jongsuk, "he's got you covered."

"Got it," Mae replied, smiling at her.

Minji gave Mae's shoulder a light squeeze and waved before heading off. Jongsuk lingered for a moment, his eyes twinkling as he took one last look at Mae.

"By the way, Mae," he said, offering her a playful wink. "Your freckles? Absolutely adorable. And that smile-don't ever hide it."

Mae's cheeks heated instantly, and before she could reply, he turned and strolled away, leaving her alone in the hallway, heart pounding from the unexpected compliment.