MUST HAVE BEEN THE WIND | JIKOOK ✔

CHP 24

Jimin feels odd, sitting on Officer Jeon's couch. Despite his cozy exterior consisting of rimmed glasses, a jumper and sweatpants, he can't deny the clear sentiment of discomfort adrift in his chest.

He had been discharged from the hospital yesterday. Jeongguk was there for him yet still kept his distance - compliant with the teacher's request however still alert in light of his recent outbreak at the park.

Things between the two of them have been a little bit different as a result of his prior admission. He most definitely didn't hold himself back but it wasn't as though he really had a choice. It was as if his brain had wired itself to say specific things and his mouth had no issue reciprocating them. Yes, maybe some of his points were a tad bit harsh but they all came from the heart. He was honest with each word and that's exactly what they need: honesty.

Jimin is sitting rather still, watching some Bugs Bunny on TV with a cup of hot chocolate cradled by his small fingers. The policeman had made it for him since days have gotten cooler and he doesn't necessarily like coffee. It's peppered with tiny, withering marshmallows and they swim around in the warm liquid, hypnotizing him to the point that he doesn't hear the man exit the washroom.

As sad as it is to say, the air around them is rather stiff. Not to the point that it's a painful kind of silence but enough to have them on their toes, unsure of what to say next.

Jeongguk has dressed himself fully instead of simply wrapping a white towel around his waist. He moves to the kitchen and if Jimin doesn't know any better the man is looking to prepare dinner for the both of them - something he hasn't done and something they haven't shared in awhile.

He's definitely keeping to his word, providing distance. The policeman is busy fishing through the fridge and pantry as well as the cabinets; Jimin watching him covertly as he sips on his hot chocolate. It almost appears as though Officer Jeon is afraid to say anything, in fears of crossing any boundaries and severing any promises he has made. He's being extremely cautious which Jimin can respect but the silence and lack of communication is doing worse for him than it is good. He still needs some kind of distraction from his fucked up reality.

And so he stands up, sock clad feet gliding along the hard wood floor as he approaches the kitchen. He sits himself at the island little to Jeongguk's knowledge and the moment the policeman looks up he nearly jolts out of his clothes.

This is enough to have Jimin smiling as he slips his sleeves down his hands, watching Officer Jeon as he collects himself and reels from the near heart attack.

"You scared me," Jeongguk breathes and presses his hands to the counter, staring down.

"...If I scare you then I think we're going to have some issues," Jimin jests and pushes his cup of hot chocolate to the side for now, crossing his arms over the marble.

Jeongguk smiles awkwardly and continues on with his dinner making. As far as Jimin is concerned it seems as though it's something simple yet tasty. Ramen alongside some kimchi.

The teacher pouts his lips and looks down at his covered arms. Maybe this wasn't the greatest idea. Maybe he should have just stayed with Namjoon. Jeongguk is clearly uncomfortable yet attempts to seem otherwise and in a sense it's rather pitiful to see him maneuver around the house with constant blazen cheeks. It's almost as if the man is walking on glass.

"I'm sorry, Jimin," Jeongguk says quietly with defeat.

The teacher perks up, staring at the policeman's back as he's hunched over the sink, head hanging low. Jimin can basically see the waves of conquer ghosting his body.

"...It's okay," he replies, not needing to ask why. He's knows the reason behind the man's apology.

"...I'm a grown man, you'd think I would know how to handle a situation like this," Jeongguk murmurs.