The next morning, YN was busy packing her belongings. Her heart felt heavy, knowing she had to leave Jimin, even if it was just for a week. She zipped up her bag and took one last look at the room before stepping into the hall.
Jimin was already waiting by the door, his keys in hand. His face betrayed his emotions-sadness etched into every line. A pang of guilt struck her heart as she noticed the dullness in his usually vibrant eyes.
She walked over to him, dropping her bag momentarily. Without saying a word, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a tight hug.
He immediately hugged her back, his grip firm as though he was trying to memorize the feeling of her being so close.
YN pulled back slightly, resting her head against his chest. "I'll be back, Jimin. It's just one week," she said softly, trying to reassure him. "Now stop making that face. You're going to make this harder than it already is."
Jimin broke the hug, his hands moving to cup her face. His thumb brushed her cheek gently before he leaned down and kissed her forehead. He was silent, his dull expression tugging at her heart.
With a sigh, YN leaned in and gave him a quick peck on the lips. Before she could step away, Jimin pulled her closer, his arms snaking around her waist. His lips found hers again, this time deeper, more lingering, as if he were trying to convey everything he couldn't say aloud.
Her hands instinctively wrapped around his neck, and she melted into the kiss.
Suddenly, a loud, exaggerated cough startled them both. They broke apart quickly, turning to see her parents standing near the door.
Embarrassment washed over YN as she ducked behind Jimin, gripping his shirt for support. Jimin turned his head slightly to glance at her. Her flushed face was hidden behind his shoulder.
He cleared his throat awkwardly, forcing a small smile. "Uh... Please, come in. Have a seat," he said, gesturing to the sofa.
YN's parents exchanged a look before stepping inside. Her mother and father sat on the couch, their expressions serious.
"We need to talk," her mother began, her gaze flickering briefly to YN before settling on Jimin. "About our daughter."
YN cautiously moved out from behind Jimin and sat down beside her parents. Her voice was soft as she asked, "Do you still not want to talk to me?"
Her father frowned, his tone stern. "Go and wait in the car."
"No!" YN said firmly, her eyes welling up with tears. "I know it's my fault. I should have told you what was happening. But this silent treatment-it feels like the worst punishment. Please, don't do this."
Her mother's eyes softened slightly, but her voice remained firm. "Did you ever consider us your parents, YN?"
Tears spilled over as YN shook her head in disbelief. "Why would you say that, Mom? Of course, I consider you my parents. I just-I didn't know how to tell you about me and Jimin. I was scared, and everything happened so fast. Please, I'm sorry."
She reached out, taking both her mother's and father's hands. Her voice trembled as she added, "I'll tell you everything. I promise."
Her father's expression softened as he let out a deep sigh. "Promise?"
"Yes, Dad," YN said, nodding earnestly.
Her father opened his arms, pulling her into a warm embrace. "We only have you and your brother," he said, his voice thick with emotion.
"I know," YN whispered, clinging to him. "I'm so sorry, Dad. I'm sorry, Mom."
Her mother joined the hug, her stern demeanor finally melting.
After a moment, YN's father turned his attention to Jimin, who had been watching the scene silently from the side.
"Jimin," her father said, his tone serious.
Jimin straightened, his eyes meeting her father's. "Yes, sir?"
Her father's gaze was steady, almost piercing. "Do you really love my daughter?"
Jimin didn't hesitate. He stepped forward, his voice firm yet full of sincerity. "I love her more than anything, sir. She means the world to me, and I'll do everything in my power to make her happy and keep her safe."
YN's father studied him for a moment before nodding. "Good. That's all I needed to hear."
Jimin let out a small breath of relief, but his expression remained respectful.
Her mother chimed in, her voice softer now. "Take care of her, Jimin. She might act strong, but she's sensitive. Don't let her carry the weight of everything alone."
"I won't," Jimin promised. "Not ever."
YN watched the exchange, her heart swelling with emotion.
Her father finally smiled, albeit faintly. "Alright. Let's go. You still have a long drive ahead."
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