The Pilot || MinJoon

Chapter 25

"Your ex?" Namjoon slowly says.

"Yeah," says Jimin absentmindedly. "I dated him for a few weeks back in college. Long story short, I broke up with him because he's an asshole who just wanted to close a deal between his dad's company and ARCADIUM."

"Oh," Namjoon says softly, his eyes firmly trained on the plush carpet of Jimin's office. He schools his face into a neutral expression, not willing to let Jimin see how much this piece of information troubles him. 

To be honest, he's not bothered about Jimin's previous relationships. Hell, he'd had one himself, and look how that turned out for him. Still, he doesn't know how to feel about seeing any of his boyfriend's exes in the flesh. Would it cause his old insecurities to resurface? 

He doesn't want Jimin to see that broken part of him that he's neatly hidden away. Therapy has helped to mend the cracks, but they're still there. There's always something that could shatter his newfound confidence-- all it would take is a cutting remark, a withering glance from someone who matters to him. 

But Jimin doesn't deserve to have an insecure, broken boyfriend. He needs one who's strong, confident, and dependable. And by God, that's what he's going to be, no matter what it takes. 

As these thoughts race throughout the pilot's head, Jimin springs into action, wanting to get to the root of the problem as soon as possible. 

"Hanseul, this is what we're gonna do, are you listening to me?" says Jimin as he turns to his assistant, who looks as though he's about to get an ulcer attack. "Call reception and tell them not to let him up. Under no circumstances is he allowed in here, okay? Then tell Yoongi about the situation and tell him to meet me at the lobby in 10 minutes." 

"Alright sir," Hanseul replies, swiftly making his way out of the office and closing the door behind him.

Jimin reaches for his phone and scrolls through his contacts, looking for his father's number. He was about to tap on his phone when he glances up and sees Namjoon, who seems to be lost in thought.

"Hey," Jimin says while walking closer to his boyfriend. "Joonie?" he asks, peering up at him. "Are you okay?" 

Worriedly, he reaches out to touch Namjoon's face, his thumb rubbing soothing circles on his cheek. At his touch, the pilot closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. 

"Yeah, I'm good," Namjoon murmurs, pulling Jimin closer for a hug. "I think this is my cue to go. I'll leave you to it baby, don't want to be in the way."

"You are not in the way," Jimin fiercely says, kissing Namjoon on the lips for emphasis. "I get that this is kind of weird, and that guy has no business being here, but... I need you, Joonie."

Jimin looks so stressed, frustrated, and lost, but he's also looking at Namjoon as though he's the last drink of water in the desert-- like he truly needs him to get through the day. And that look on Jimin's face strengthens Namjoon's resolve to be there for him, once and for all. 

Kim Namjoon, reporting for boyfriend duty. And he's gonna give it his all. 

"You sure baby? You really want me here?" Namjoon whispers, an unreadable expression on his face. 

"Yes," Jimin replies, cupping Namjoon's face in his hands. "You have no idea how you, being here with me, gives me so much comfort. Please don't think I'm being needy--"

"If you need me, then I'm staying," Namjoon gently says. "I'll stay for as long as you like."

I'd even stay forever if you ask me to, Namjoon silently adds.