“How are you feeling?” Taehyung asked Namjoon when he found the man outside his office with Ga Yeon noona. With his sunglasses still on, Namjoon ran a thumb on Taehyung’s cheek where surely the bruise was, he apologized miserably

“Tae, I’m so sorry. Gosh, I really didn’t mean to hurt you.” Gently brushing away Namjoon hyungs hand from his face, Taehyung allowed them into his office and making sure that the door was closed and the windows shield was down, he walked back to his desk and reassured calmly

“It’s ok hyung. It’s just a bump. I’m not going to die for so little. Let me see your hands though.” Docilely caving in from the younger man’s demand, Namjoon stretched his hand over Taehyung.

“You’re sure you’re fine. Did I hit somewhere else?” Namjoon questions but Taehyung casually dismissed the question and instead asked

“How did you get all these cuts?”

“From cooking.”

“Darn it hyung. I know you’re a great chef but be more careful when you wield a knife. You’ll end up chopping off a finger next time.”

“It wouldn’t be such a bad thing if he lost his hand. At least then he won’t be able to open a bottle of alcohol.” Ga Yeon noona seethes irritatingly but Taehyung knew better than to actually believe that she meant what she was saying. She was simply holding a grudge. Eventually she’ll get over it with time. Namjoon, on the other hand, was clearly feeling bad for everything. So silently scolding Ga Yeon noona for being too harsh with Namjoon hyung, Taehyung smiled mischievously at the older man and said

“At least you’ll still have one hand left for ing.” Namjoon laughed at the obscene image Taehyung just implied and playfully kicking him on the shin, he said

“Ya, if you think I need to do that to satisfy myself then you don’t know me that well unfortunately.” Cringing at the disgusting turn the conversation was taking, Ga Yeon noona gently hit Taehyung and Namjoon back of their heads, and reprimanded softly, now calmer than she had been earlier

“I seriously can’t stand you two. Can’t you two have a normal conversation for goodness sake? What bull are you spouting?”

“You’ll like to know the detail huh noona?” Taehyung roguishly teased the older woman. He was about to get once more a hit from the said woman, when the door slammed open and Jimin walked in, slightly pouting. Glaring or at least, Jimin tried to at Namjoon hyung, he angrily hit him on the shoulder and said

“The heck is wrong with you? Do you know how worried we were? Don’t ever pull that kind of again. Because I’ll personally skin you alive if you do.” Taking off the sunglasses that was now bothering him, Namjoon smiled repentantly at his cute Jiminie and promised

“You have my word. I don’t even know why I did that. I mean, I was hurt when Chayeon dumped me but I never thought I’ll actually end up at the restaurant for her. Yeah you don’t have to tell me, Ga Yeon noona told me everything on our way here and you have no idea how embarrassed I am. Gosh I bet the people she was dining with thought I was some loser or something.”

“Don’t worry what’s the probability of you running into them anyway?” Jimin tried to comfort Namjoon. Something that could’ve work if it weren’t for Ga Yeon noona’s odd behavior. Frowning at the way, Ga Yeon noona’s lips were tightly pursed together, Namjoon asked

“Noona?”

“Huh?”

“You’re being really obvious. Is there something you should tell us about?” Taehyung asked this time, settling behind his seat. Fervently feigning ignorance, Ga Yeon noona tried to divert their attention but failing miserably, she sighed and mutters

“Actually, you just ran into them not too long ago Namjoonie.”

“What? I did? When?”

“Do you remember the guy you bumped into earlier?” With his eyebrows furrowed, Namjoon tried hard to recall the particular scene and when he did, he questioned Ga Yeon noona on what she was trying to tell him then and almost fell off the chair he was sitting on, when she answered

“He’s Chayeon’s boyfriend. Kim Seokjin.” The news couldn’t have been a bigger shock for Namjoon. For not only, he hadn’t recognized the man but surely he must be laughing his off of how pitiful Namjoon must’ve seem to him. He didn’t have the hard to hate guy whatsoever. After all, he honestly didn’t give two cents about Chayeon, even if yesterday’s event says otherwise, what he couldn’t wrap his mind around with though is the fact, Chayeon had cheated on him. Whichever case, he had no hard feelings for the guy, or at least, he tried to convince himself that. Rubbing slowly his temples, Namjoon lamented pathetically

“Did I kill the emperor in my past life or something? Gosh, I’m having a headache with all this.” Taehyung on the other hand tried so hard to not laugh at how ridiculous things were going for Namjoon hyung but honestly, the situation itself was like screaming comedy. Stifling a giggle, he tried to reason

“Look at it on the bright side.”

“Which is?” Namjoon challenged humorlessly.

“I don’t know you tell me.” Taehyung retorted, now laughing. Jimin who had also began to laugh dodge Namjoon’s angry fit and pulling Taehyung from the annoyed older man, he said

“Come on hyung. What happen to your optimistic spirit?”

“Do you know where you can shove your optimistic spirit?”

“Ok boys, that’s enough. Namjoonie, calm down ok. Let’s just forget about all this. It’s not important enough for us to linger on anyway. And Namjoonie, forget about Chayeon. Don’t even try to make me believe that you’ve already moved on because I know you haven’t and the first step for you to start anew is if you are more honest with yourself. You guys just broke up six months ago anyway so it’s no surprise that the wound is still fresh. We understand. But, don’t go around drinking and blaming your break up on others. If it didn’t work out between you two then it’s simply because you’re not meant to be. So it up and let God decide who you should be with. I know you’ll find someone better. Someone who’ll love you the way you deserve. It can take months as it can take years but be patient ok? Don’t let someone who cheated on you scar you for life. Love is so much more beautiful than that so don’t give up now.” Ga Yeon noona advised quietly, adjusting in a motherly way, Namjoon’s collar. Taehyung knew then that everything will be fine now.

After Ga Yeon noona and Namjoon hyung left, Taehyung turned to Jimin and with a thoughtful look, he wondered out loud

“Jiminie, don’t you find that name Kim Seokjin familiar?” Jimin frowned at the question then dropping the ball, he had been pulping, he asked

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, I know he’s the heir of Kim Cooperate, but somehow I have this odd déjà vu feeling. Like, I’ve met him somewhere but I just don’t remember where or when. Don’t you?” Jimin asked nonchalantly, stretching his arms over his head

“Don’t we all have that feeling sometime and it turns out most of the time that it’s nothing?” Taehyung understood what his best friend was trying to tell him but he just couldn’t shake off that odd feeling. It was so disturbing. Taehyung pushed the thoughts aside though at Jimin’s change of subject

“So have you made up your mind yet for the red and blue training?”

Taehyung deadpanned “Nope.”

Jimin sighed “Ya, don’t you think you’re worried way too much for them? It’s nice to see that you care so much for them but that shouldn’t stop them from doing something that can help them grow.” Taehyung pressed his lips together, and slightly pouting as he watched his friend move to the seat in front of him,

“I know. I’m just scared that they’ll break under the pressure. They’re too young Jiminie.” Taehyung answered curtly.

“We were just as young when we entered the training. Don’t underestimate them Taehyungie.” His best friend told him, voice more serious than intended. Taehyung knew he wasn’t exactly scolding him. More like he was trying to reason with him. The problem was that it was his job to worry. He took seriously his responsibilities so it was a given that he’ll be so on his guard. But Taehyung couldn’t deny that Jimin had a point. It the end, it was up to his interns if they wanted to take the challenge. He sighed.

“I guess you’re right.” “Of course I’m right. I’m always right.” He snickered arrogantly, earning a short laugh from Taehyung.

Accordingly to what he had decided in his office, Taehyung reunited his team in his office and in his usual blank tone, he asked quietly

“First of all, I want to personally congratulate you for the great work you guys did in assisting me the day before. I know it’s not easy to keep his cool especially in circumstances such as an accident but you guys did really well in keeping your head straight. Because of that, you guys have been invited to the red and blue training.” Seeing the clueless most of them had on, he explained,

“The red and blue training is a camp which chairmen’s of all hospital in Seoul has put together. Gathering each year, promising interns and making them go through various trial. For an entire week, the interns will basically be tested on their rapid reaction during a crisis, his efficacy in the field and his survival instinct. All those will build your CV in case you want to be reassigned elsewhere. Of course it’s up to you if you want to accept it or not.”

“Are we going to be facing interns of other department as well as different hospitals then?” Jinyoung wondered stoically, her expression not faltering one single emotion. Taehyung nodded and told them in a more serious tone

“But to clear the training is all about doing less mistakes as possible. Whoever wins is the least important. So keep in mind that if you participate, prioritize a clean work rather than a rush one. Understood?” Sighing at the collective nods well, excluding Jungkook of course, Taehyung presented the envelope in front of them and crossing his arms over his chest, Taehyung stated after a short period of time

“If you take those envelopes, I’ll assume that you’ll accept. If you don’t its ok too.”

“What do you mean by its ok? Does it mean we’ll be able to do it another time then?” Ahn asked hopefully and Taehyung regretted immediately those words. Can he really lie to them? With a straight face, Taehyung responded

“It depends. As long as you do a great job you might receive another invitation.”

“But it’s not for sure.” Jungkook deadpanned. Taehyung wet irritatingly his lips and with a nod, he answered curtly

“Indeed.” And as expected, Jungkook immediately reached out for his envelope and walking away he didn’t even spare a glance back at Taehyung nor did he say anything else. Such a rude exit, Taehyung thought but he didn’t dawdle long on it however, and turning his gaze towards the three indecisive lads, he said offering them an encouraging smile

“Don’t feel pressured into accepting it. You won’t disappoint anyone by not accepting.”

“Yeah, but we can’t let Jungkook do this alone.” Myungjae reasoned and Taehyung inwardly felt pity for the man. It was clear that he wasn’t sure he wanted to do it and yet because of Jungkook he felt incline to do so. To not let down Jungkook. The problem is that Jungkook was letting them down in the process.

After the rest of the team left his office with the envelopes, Taehyung leaned tiredly against the back of his seat and thoughtfully rubbing his thumb on his lower lips, he wondered for the hundredth times just how to tame the rich genius. But like many time he had thought of the issue, he was left with one option. Let him learn by his mistakes. It wasn’t an easy course but as long as he understands that some decision had to be taken with the others opinion, Taehyung wouldn’t have to be so harsh on him anymore.

Taehyung has had his fair share of work for the day. By the time, he ended his shift and was heading out the hospital, he felt a weight on his shoulder. He didn’t even have to turn around to know who it was. Only one person could be so childish as to jump on his back unannounced.

“Ya, Jiminie, how old are you huh?” Taehyung asked in a tone he tried to be stern, yet adjusting his aggressor on his back, as he made his way out the door and to the cold of the night.

“Older than you. So shut up and carry me, my little pet.” Taehyung playfully hit his so called master’s and proceeding to his car, he missed the pair of eyes that spotted him the minute he walked out the door with Jimin on his back.

“Oh they’re at it again.” Mrs Hong Nan’s voice snapped Jungkook’s eyes away from them instantly. Jungkook was about to leave when he coincidentally saw Dr Kim Taehyung piggy backing Dr Park. He didn’t really know how to make off of the scene but just when he was going to ignore it, Mrs Hong Nan appeared beside him, herself about to leave. Jungkook wasn’t curious at all as to why the head of nurse was saying that, yes, he totally wasn’t. It just happen that Mrs Hong Nan felt like bringing up old time and coincidentally Jungkook was there. He was literally forced to hear her out.

“They’ve always been that crazy even when they arrived here. You’d think that in time they’ll grow out of their crazy antics but it seems like that day will possibly never come. Oh well, are you leaving? I’ll see you tomorrow then.” She told him, before walking her own way, leaving a skeptical Jungkook behind. Jungkook didn’t bother linger on it long though. He had much more important things to think of anyway.

“Why haven’t you taken your car?” Taehyung asked while attaching his seatbelt. Jimin who was on the passenger seat, imitate his best friend and leaning more comfortably on his seat, he answered nonchalantly

“Mom wanted to use it. So I let her borrow it. Her car is in the garage and she can’t ask dad since he needs his for work so she took mine. It’s not like I get to use it often anyway since I’m 24/7 here at the hospital. The truth is, it’s been a while since I’ve left work to have a decent meal and a shower.” With a smile Taehyung started his car, and pulling away from his parking spot, he snorted teasingly

“No wonder you look like a zombie. And you still think you are handsome? Some bull you can say sometime.” Jimin retorted just as playfully

“At least I still get girls attention. Tell me when was the last time a woman confessed to you?”

“Wow, you must be so proud of yourself.”

“Yeah I am.”

“Good for you. Why don’t you tie the knot then? Give other woman’s their chance to find someone better.”

“There never will be anyone better than me Taetae.” Jimin arrogantly told him and Taehyung can only roll his eyes in response. By the time, Taehyung would’ve thought that he would get used of Jimin overwhelming confidence but weirdly it still made him cringed as much as it did in the past. Taehyung did then what he did every time Jimin made him roll his eyes, he only chuckled. And as cue, Jimin changed the subject and asked in a more serious tone

“So what did you decide to do with your interns?” Taehyung sighed

“What you said.” Jimin looked at him for a long while uncertain then finally looking out the window, he smiled a bit and questioned

“So?”

“They will participate.” Taehyung deadpanned.

“And you’re not happy because…?” Jimin wondered, stretching nonchalantly his hands above his head.

“It’s not that I’m not happy, I just don’t think they are ready yet. Then again, only time can say if I’m right or not.”

“Like you…” Jimin try to retort but was interrupted by Taehyung’s ringtone. Without waiting for Taehyung’s permission to answer his phone, Jimin grabbed the device and putting in on loud speaker, he said cheerfully

“Oh Hoseok hyung, how are you doing?”

“Great you two are together. Jiminie, are you and Taetae heading home yet?” The man who they knew since high school asked in a hurry. Almost too nervous. And coming from a natural coward like him, it had to be something bad for it to leave him that shaken on the phone.

His meeting with Jung Hoseok was pretty ordinary. Actually, Taehyung had gotten to know the man via Jimin who at the time were taking some dancing classes as a hobby. Back then, they were juniors in high school and Jung Hoseok, a senior. Many would have thought that he’ll never befriend his younger hoobaes, but he proved them all wrong. It was something Taehyung had always admired in the man. He didn’t do things the normal way. And that’s how he charmed Taehyung and his friend. Plus, because of his easy going personality, Hoseok hadn’t had that much trouble getting accepted in their little group of friend anyway. Also, he was an amazing dancing partner for Jimin so how can he not be loved by Taehyung or anyone in his entourage. Unfortunately, both, Jimin and Hoseok hyung, had had to give up dancing because of their family’s situation. Jimin, because, he had to follow after his father’s footstep and Hoseok, because, he had to take over the family business, being the older son of the family. Therefore, they had to give up their dream of being huge dancers. Though, they danced for time to time but less often than as they did back in the days.

Frowning, Hoseok hyung’s fated dancing partner answered evidently perplex

“Yes hyung, we are right now. Why? Did something happen? Are you ok?”

“Well… Hmm, I am, but I’m not sure this other guy is. Just… Just come at Namjoon’s restaurant, ok. Hurry.” Before Jimin had the chance to ask the older man why the vague demand, Taehyung instantly changed his trajectory and headed to the said place.

It didn’t take him that long to reach there. And honestly with the tone Jung Hoseok had used when calling them, Taehyung was seriously more intrigued how the hell he hadn’t been arrested yet for driving over the authorized limit rather than how fast they got there. Without further thoughts on it however, Taehyung unbuckles rashly his seat belt, got out of his car and after locking it, he followed Jimin who was a step ahead of him. The minute he walked into the restaurant, which was closed, Taehyung avoided a table on his way and walking towards where a loud sound was coming from, he was shocked to find Namjoon glaring fervently towards a man who had his back turned. Like him, Jimin looked just as perplexed at what to make off the situation out to be.

“… I don’t care but you can’t have the apartment anymore.” Taehyung heard Namjoon tell the man he still didn’t know who it was.

“I’m sorry but I’ve already signed the paper.” The man answered and if it weren’t for Hoseok that pulled Namjoon back, there was no doubt that Namjoon would’ve jumped on the man. An aggressive behavior, Namjoon rarely displays when sober.

“Well, I say there’s no more contract, period!” Namjoon seethes, clearly angry. Finally making his way to Namjoon, Taehyung silently questioned Hoseok about what was going on but having the man only shrug in response, he turned to the stranger who was clearly the cause of Namjoon’s agitation. Taehyung had to look at him only once, to finally understand why Namjoon was being so weird. Unconsciously letting out a sigh, he reasoned sternly

“Hyung, stop it already. Was yesterday not enough?” Jimin who looked clueless at first, only needed to hear the scolding words from Taehyung to catch on, on what was going on and from the way his eyes widen, he was honestly shocked on how amazing this coincident was. Regrettably, Hoseok still had no idea as to what was going on. He wasn’t going to stay ignorant long for Namjoon angrily states

“It’s exactly because of yesterday that I’m saying that! I don’t want to repeat the same mistakes and especially physically assault someone that’s why I’ve been kindly trying to explain him that the contract is no longer valid except that he’s making it damn difficult.”

“Who me? Are you kidding?! I’ve already deposited the money and moved all my stuff here! So what? You expect me to just pack up and leave when I’ve done everything fair and square?” Seokjin pressed further annoyed. Taehyung couldn’t blame him. In his place, he’ll be just as damn displeased. Except that, Namjoon wasn’t the type to bend over for anyone. Especially not people he deems unworthy. And it didn’t need a genius to guess that Namjoon didn’t particular carry the man in front of him in his heart.

“Fair and square? Look who’s joking now!” Namjoon yells, his expression hardening.

“Gosh, just when is-it going to get into your thick head that I’m not your guy ok?! Why can’t you understand that the whole thing with Chayeon is a huge misunderstanding? I’ve never been the guy she cheated on you with. If she did cheat on you then I can assure you that it wasn’t me!” Jin yells just as equally, much to Taehyung’s surprise. After all, why was Kim Seokjin so feverishly defending his cause? Does he really want the apartment that much? Wasn’t he supposed to be rich anyway? Why rent the tiny apartment above the restaurant instead of a bigger one and in a better neighborhood? And more importantly, was he telling the truth about not being the guy Chayeon cheated Namjoon with? Kim Seokjin looked sincere to Taehyung though. Except that it Taehyung that he had to convince his said innocence to but rather…

“Your word means little to me.”

“Seems like yours means even less if you will simply pull back from an agreement only because of your personal feelings.” Seokjin bit back, not willing to let Namjoon have the last word at all. Something which only annoyed further Namjoon. Namjoon instinctually reacted to the words, clearly meant to hurt him, and was about to tell the guy to just go himself but before he could, Taehyung covered, without prior warning, Namjoon’s lips and offering a smile to the still seething rich heir

“If you’ll excuse us for just a minute, we’ll be right back. How about while waiting you have a seat and Jiminie will prepare you a cup of tea?”

“I don’t need…” Seokjin was about to retort but Jimin beat him to it

“Oh yes, you do. And trust me, after drinking my special tea you’ll never be able to drink any other the same way.” Jimin assured, pulling him over to the counter. Hoseok, who was holding Namjoon by one arm and Taehyung the other, pulled the fuming chef away from the other two and forcing him into the kitchen, Hoseok instantly walk back to guard the door, preventing then Namjoon to run back out, leaving Taehyung the possibility to confidently release the latter without fearing any kind of disaster. With his expression hardening somehow, Taehyung asked

“Ya hyung, just what do you think you’re doing? Since when did you ever let your feeling blur your judgment?”

“I don’t see what you are talking about?”

“Namjoonie.” Hoseok quietly warned and the said man clenched his fist in response before saying in a tone that hid no anger

“What? So I’m supposed to just pretend that I’m cool with him living just above me and working with me?”

“Ok, first of all, what’s so bad about him living in that apartment? You need the money anyway. And as for him working with you, isn’t it what you’ve always been complaining about? The fact that you lacked man power? Well now you have someone that can help you. I know you’re mad and you’re hurt but what if you’re wrong and he’s innocent? Have you ever thought of that?”

“Tae, what are you saying? You hear him plead once his innocence and you believe him right away? What about how I feel? What I saw? I saw them together unless you’ve forgotten. Or you just don’t believe me?” Namjoon asked, his face distorting with both disbelief and disappointment. A sight Taehyung had rarely had the chance of having it directed to him. But, he wasn’t going to let Namjoon hyung just win like that. After all, it wasn’t about being on whose side but rather doing the right thing. The fact that he expulses Seokjin just like that, regardless of the contract he had already signed was a violation of the law already. And Taehyung will definitely not be the one who would just idly sit back and watch his friend dig his own grave. Especially not if by pleasing Namjoon, it meant risking to have Namjoon face juridical problems.

“I’m not saying that. I’m only saying that you should look beyond it all. I know you’re hurt but are you really going to let Chayeon up with your life much longer? Hasn’t she done that for far enough? Why not be the bigger person and show her that she’ll never hurt you more than she has already done. Besides haven’t you ever heard the saying that says keep your friends close but your enemies even closer? Come on hyung, aren’t you tired of being angry?” Taehyung chastised but for some reason the reaction Namjoon had in the end of his dialogue, left him anxious. As if he was foretelling something bad. Taehyung hoped he was wrong.

“I guess you’re right.” Namjoon had told him after a long while. Namjoon returned then by Jimin and Seokjin's side in the restaurant where to everyone’s surprise and especially Seokjin, Namjoon coldly agreed to let him stay and even work for him. But not without asking in a tone somewhat calmer though Taehyung knew it to be part of an act

“But why live here and not elsewhere? Aren’t you supposed to be some rich heir anyway?”

“I’m sorry but I can’t divulge my reasons. Let’s just say, it’s me taking my independence from my parents.” And it was in that last note did Taehyung and Jimin watched the man disappeared minutes after up the stairs, leading to his now apartment. Turning to Taehyung, Namjoon and Hoseok, Jimin commented

“I’ll bet you everything I have that he had a fight with his folks. What do you guys think?” Taehyung shook his head in a way to tell him to drop the subject then walking behind the bar to serve himself a glass of water, Taehyung demanded firmly

“Anyway hyung, promise me you won’t do anything rash from now on.” Namjoon rolled his eyes, leaned his back against the counter and answered in a tone weirdly reminding Taehyung of kids when they won’t admit their wrong

“I’m not dumb. I was just caught off guard that’s all. But I’m calmer now.”

“Of course you are.” Hoseok hyung sarcastically snorted in response and ignoring the glare Namjoon hyung sent his way, he served himself a whisky and pulling out a chair to comfortably sit on, he continued in the same tone

“You’re so calm that I can’t hear you gritting your teeth right now. Admit it kid, you are anything but calm.”

“At least he’s trying?” Jimin optimistically said but after a glance on Namjoon’s tense posture, he clicked his tongue disapprovingly and sighed

“Oh boy.”

“Will you guys please stop it? I’m not going to kill him if that’s what’s worrying you…”

“That’s a relief.” Hoseok mordantly replied, but his snarky remark was effortlessly ignored by Namjoon who continued as if Hoseok had never spoken

“Besides, he has already signed the lease. What can i do against him now?”

Taehyung had wanted to convince himself so badly that Namjoon had a point, but the more he listened to Namjoon hyung less he was convinced that the older man had no evil intention in why he caved in so easily in letting Seokjin have his way with this contract. But obviously, Taehyung decided to bury that gut feeling away far from his senses and instead earnestly hoped that Namjoon or Seokjin would really try to work this out. After all, regardless of their connection, meaning Chayeon, they, without being too corny, had more to gain together than without each other. Despite what Namjoon was so convinced into thinking, having someone that was willing to rent his apartment and work for him was a chance of a lifetime. And especially when the said person wasn’t so picky with the place. Let’s be honest here, Namjoon’s apartment had close to zero appeal. Thus, the probability for it to attract potential buyer was close to nonexistent. The proof is the apartment had been up for almost a year and a half and he had no visitor until now. So how can hyung be picky when finally he had someone that had not only accepted to rent the apartment but had deposited the money without even visiting the apartment first which by the way was a plus for Namjoon, since he wouldn’t have to worry about his renter bailing on him at the last minute. So it goes without saying that Kim Seokjin was in this case more of a profit for Namjoon than an inconvenience. Financially speaking that is. Even if Taehyung still had no clue as to why Seokjin, who was without a doubt used to much better, wouldn’t mind living here. But if he wanted this place so badly, it can only mean that he needs it. So in the end, it was a winning-winning scenario. That, Taehyung was conscious of. Namjoon, on the other hand, didn’t seem to be analyzing it in any way except that he hated the man. Consequently, he didn’t see beyond his heartache. Taehyung honestly couldn’t understand Namjoon hyung. Then again, he had never been in love so he wouldn’t know the suffering Namjoon hyung was certainly going through with knowing that instead of following his heart, he had to find a middle ground with the guy that screw up his love life. All for the sake of not breaching a written contract.

Taehyung snapped out of it when Jimin asked with a giggle hardly contained

“But how did you not know that you were selling your apartment to him?”

Namjoon sighed resignedly

“We did most of the formalities on the phone so I’ve never seen him in person and even if I did, I wouldn’t even recognize him. With my face blindness, it takes me more than seeing him once or a photography for me to remember a face. For the signing, some dude came a week ago and deposited the money before asking for a copy of the lease. Apparently his boss was a bit busy so he couldn’t make it, but he’ll make sure that his boss will sign the paper and will return it without fail. And even then, when I learned that his name was Kim Seokjin, I didn’t think it be the same Kim Seokjin I knew of. After all, the name Kim Seokjin is not that uncommon in Seoul. Obviously, it was a big mistake. I should’ve been more careful. But it’s too late to mope now.”

“Indeed.” Hoseok commented much to Namjoon’s dismay. Taehyung tried to diffuse the tension then by asking Hoseok

“Well, it’s not your fault. Don’t dwell too much on it hyung. I’m sure everything will work out just fine. Anyway, Hoseok hyung, why are you here?”

“Well after your call yesterday, I was worried about Namjoonie. So I came to check on him. But instead of a heartbroken lad I saw an angry dude instead. Well, in any case, it’s good to see that he’s just as lively as usual.” Hoseok answered, dodging the hand Namjoonie swung his way, aiming for Hoseok’s shoulder.

“Ah hyung, give Namjoonie hyung a break.” Jimin tried to scold Hoseok but seeing that trying to get Hoseok hyung to be less childish was like trying to tell penguins that they can’t fly, he let Hoseok continue whatever he was doing to the poor Namjoon, and turned to Taehyung where he strikes a less strenuous conversation with his best friend. In brief, Jimin just wanted Taehyung’s opinion on a dance routine he’d found while surfing on the net.

It’s been two days since Taehyung had been at Namjoon’s restaurant. But with the work, he had to finish and Min Yoongi’s forever ominous aura looming over him, Taehyung had no time at all to see anybody except his interns and patients.

Taehyung couldn’t complain about it though. He knew what he signed up for when he chose to do this job, so what’s the point of complaining now. Once again Taehyung’s endurance proved Jimin just how perfect his friend was for this job. Another one of Taehyung’s trait, among many, which Jimin admired in his friend. It didn’t stop him from worrying after his selfless best friend though.

So when Taehyung fell asleep on his uncomfortable seat as they were heading to the training camp, Jimin politely asked Taehyung’s seat partner to move to Jimin’s seat further in the back and carefully pushing the armrest, separating the two chairs aside, Jimin softly tugged Taehyung’s head to his lap. Something he did often. Because of this particular habit, many thought Jimin and Taehyung’s were lovers at some point but with Jimin’s history in the girls department they quickly dropped the claims and instead were now convinced at the possibility of it being a one sided love from Taehyung. Evidently, Taehyung had tried to get rid of the rumors, but after a while, he simply started to ignore it. Thinking back on it, Jimin unconsciously smirked at how upset Taehyung had been at the time for having been falsely accused as being gay. Jimin knew Taehyung wasn’t homophobic. Far from that. After all, they did have many gay friends and were both against any mistreatment to gay people or just anyone for a matter of fact. Anyway, same love was not a problem for Taehyung but it was for his family. He knew for a fact that Taehyung’s grandparents would support him in whatever decision he made. His parents however was a different story. Despite the fact that they weren’t that close, Taehyung would never do anything that will pull him even further from his parents. Some say that we deserve what is given to us. But to Jimin, he really couldn’t find a reason as to what Taehyung’s parents had did that was so deserving for them to have a kid like Taehyung. They must’ve saved the country in their past life. And yet, they took Taehyung for granted. Still, in all that logic, he knew about Taehyung’s selfish ways. They were rare moments. But they did exist. It happens, when Taehyung really yearns for something. At that point, he’s very much capable of going against the world to have it. Even his parents. Come to think of it, Taehyung has never been in love. If he were and it was, hypothetically, a man, what would he actually do? After all, Taehyung was apathetic. Especially in terms of relationship, so for him to actually feel something, it would be a first for him. And that alone made the whole ordeal of Taehyung being in love something huge. Question is who would actually be able to move his heart?

Brushing off the untamed locks covering Taehyung’s eyes, Jimin sighed heavily before pushing his sudden thoughts that always had the power to ruin his mood aside. Looking out the window to where a more wild view unfolded before his eyes, he suddenly felt a nudge on his shoulder. Looking up to whoever it was, he recognized without much difficulty a young intern who was in the cardiologic department if he wasn’t mistaking.

“Yes?”

“I’m sorry to disturb you Dr Park but I was wondering if you’d like some snacks? I heard we were going to stop at the next station so I thought I could get you something.”

Oh, I see, Jimin thought, slightly moved by the attention. However, if there was one thing he learned from his last relationship it’s that what you get is never given freely. And most of the time the price to pay is often higher than what you’ve received. Even if he tended to flirt a lot with girls, he never gave them false hopes. Which is why he often fools around with who Jimin like to refer to as Taehyung’s girls (or nurses who work with Taehyung daily.) Why them? It's rather simple. It's because they were too blinded by Taehyung to even glance at him. So they were a safe choice for him.

Jimin was well aware of his own charms but he also knew his best friends. Unlike him, Taehyung just had that thing that when he charmed you, it was nearly impossible to not be entirely swallowed by his person, so Jimin knew just how far he can go. He didn’t envy Taehyung for all that matter. After all, the man had more demons than anyone Jimin knew of had! But it did make him wonder if his friend will ever feel that same intensity of feelings he stirred in others. Remembering that once again, he was drifting away from the present time, Jimin softly shook his head to regain his thoughts and with a grateful smile, he answered the pretty woman

“Thank you. But you don’t have to. I’ve packed a lot so there’s no need to disturb yourself just for me.” It seem like she was going to argue further but at that precise moment, a deep voice coming at the range on his right said

“Go back to your seat miss. It’s dangerous to be walking around like that.” As the woman reluctantly walked back to her seat at the back, Jimin looked at the person who had somehow saved him from an evident awkward situation and instantly grinned at the recognition of none other than Suga hyung. Or rather Min Yoongi.

“So you’re also part of the trip?” Jimin remarked still grinning.

“Only till you settle. After that, I’ll have to return to Seoul.” Yoongi retorted in a much quieter tone compared to the one he used to address the intern.

“Oh, I see. I guess none of us are going to get a break from this trip huh?”

“No, not really.” Yoongi agreed, his eyes suddenly distant. Jimin was somewhat used of it. Don’t ask him why but he just was. So instead of trying to make the man talk, he calmly looked out of the window just when he heard Taehyung groaned, earning then his attention. Like many time he had Taehyung asleep on his lap, Jimin didn’t have to wake him to know what was making Taehyung uncomfortable. Wordlessly, he grabbed the face mask from Taehyung’s backpack, carefully put it on Taehyung’s face, then closing the curtains from his window, Jimin took off his beanie and slipped it on Taehyung’s head effortlessly. When he was done taking care of Taehyung, Jimin was about to try and catch some sleep too before they arrived at the camp but find it hard to do, with someone’s stare on him. Jimin tried to shrug it off at first but as the stare became more intent, he discreetly searched from the corner of his eyes the cause of his sudden discomfort when his eyes landed on those completely uninterested of Yoongi hyung. He didn’t feel so uncomfortable now knowing it was Yoongi hyung. Perhaps because he knew that he could be just looking elsewhere. After all, Yoongi hyung was more known for his indifference than his concentration. But then why did he have goose bumps if he wasn’t watched by his neighbor?

“Are you bored?” Jimin finally asked, not sure at all if indeed Yoongi hyung was the one staring at him or his paranoiac mind was making him believe things. Deciding for the latter as an explanation, he heard Yoongi hyung replied with a statement instead

“You two seem really close.” Confused for a brief second, Jimin finally answered sheepishly

“Ah you mean me and Taehyungie? Well you can say that. The two of us go from way back. He’s like a brother to me. A lot of people say that our friendship is a little odd if you know what I mean.”

“No I don’t.” Yoongi hyung deadpanned. A bit taken aback, Jimin looked at Yoongi hyung wondering if he was joking right now but realizing that he wasn’t, Jimin explained

“Oh, uhm gay. People thought we were lovers.”

“And you are?” Yoongi asked and once again, Jimin couldn’t tell if he was being serious or not. Jimin answered whatsoever

“No. We’re just friends.”

“Do you have a girlfriend then?” Ok, now, Jimin really wasn’t sure he was following the man’s way of thinking but oddly, he found himself answering stupidly

“No, I don’t.” And before, Jimin could actually understand what was going on, Yoongi left him once more speechless asking him in that same indifferent almost bored tone

“Someone you’re in love with then?”

Confused yet compelled to answer under Yoongi’s stare, Jimin replied

“No but I don’t see why…”

“May I court you then?” Yoongi coolly asked in a tone that left no sign of hesitation or doubt. Yet again, Jimin couldn’t help but wonder if he heard it right. Was Yoongi hyung asking what he was thinking? It goes without saying that at that very moment, Jimin was shared between staying frozen in hopes that his erratic heartbeat would settle or punch the guy for whatever he was saying. Jimin knew he should hit the guy for even making such a joke, but weirdly he couldn’t bring himself to move or say a word. And well, with Taehyung soundly asleep, he couldn’t really freely express his feelings. Then again, what was he actually feeling at that very instant?

“So? What’s your answer?” Silence.

“Have I been too direct?” Wondered Yoongi out loud though the question was certainly directed more to himself than to Jimin. In any case, Jimin finally regained his ability to formulate a sentence and in a tone less controlled than he was initially aiming for, he said

“The hell are you saying? If it’s a joke it’s not very funny.” Trusting that that would be enough sign for Yoongi hyung to drop the subject, Jimin then turned away from him, alas, it seems like Yoongi hyung wasn’t going to stop at all. Jimin couldn’t decide whether he was just oblivious from Jimin’s discomfort to continue such topic or just too stubborn to care. In a tone uncharacteristically softer, Yoongi said

“I’m serious. About you.” And weirdly Jimin would lie if said he wasn’t moved. There was just something in the way Yoongi hyung had spoken. Such a way that instead of Jimin frankly rejecting the man’s advance, since as far as Jimin was concern he wasn’t gay, Jimin had dumbly responded by a “I’ll think about it.” The hell was with that answer?!

Even when Taehyung had woken up and they had reached their destination, Jimin was hung up on his stupid words. He had wanted to take those words back the minute he had said them but he was too much of a coward to do so. Yes, he admits it, he, Park Jimin, was and will always be a coward. He wasn’t ashamed of it anyway. After all, there’s a saying that says cowards are those that will live longer so he had always been proud to wear that title. But right now, he wished he was a little bit braver.

Unbeknown to his best friend mayhem, Taehyung proceeded to his room with his bags tightly held in his hands. The minute, he had woken up, he hadn’t been surprise to find Jimin beside him and his face mask on and a beanie, without a doubt Jiminie’s, on his head. That’s why he loved Jimin so much. There was no one, besides his grandparents, that can take care of him as well as his friend did. Maybe one day, Taehyung’s wife would take over Jimin’s duty but for now, he was happy to have Jimin. After putting away his bag, he headed towards the living room where everyone had been asked to be at after unpacking. From a quick glance around the room, Taehyung counted around twenty interns present. Much less than last year but at least it meant less competition. Unfortunately, it also implies harder trial.

“Is everyone here?” Taehyung recognized Min Yoongi’s voice asked. After a collective yes from the assembly, Min Yoongi explained then calmly

“Good. So first of all, congratulation to all of you who have been summoned to this training. For those of you who don’t know me I’m Min Yoongi and will be the one monitoring your achievement here. I won’t be able to do it in person unfortunately but it doesn’t mean I won’t be watching you…” As Min Yoongi took the interns apart to explain them how things are going to happen during this boot camp, Taehyung spotted Jimin who looked… Weird. An adjective, Taehyung never took lightly when qualifying his best friend. So pulling him further from the group, Taehyung asked calmly

"Ya, what’s up with you?”

“What do you mean?” Jimin responded, feigning innocence. Sadly for him, Taehyung knew him too well to buy such a pitiful act. Giving him the seriously look, Taehyung countered tactfully

“I don’t know, you tell me. Don’t forget that you are an awful actor so don’t try and lie to me.” Jimin snickered

“As if you were any better in acting.”

“I’m far better than you at least. Anyway, tell me what’s going on? You’ve been wearing a frown for quite a while now.” At the comment, Jimin instantly smoothen his feature and finally spilled the beans, since he knew Taehyung wouldn’t stop bugging him otherwise. By the time he finished, Taehyung had his jaw dropped and his eyes kept going from Jimin then to Yoongi. His movement was so obvious that Jimin had to physically force him to stop turning his head so often by pressing his fingers around Taehyung’s wrist. Evidently not too hard to not hurt his friend but just enough to get him to calm down.

“Be less obvious please.” Jimin hissed irritatingly. Taehyung smiled at Jimin, clearly amused and leaning over Jimin’s ear, he whispered

“Good luck Jiminie. You’ve got yourself quite the deal.” Earning a glare from Jimin in response, Jimin was going to give him a piece of his mind but before he could, Taehyung had been called over to his interns. So winking his way away from an annoyed Jimin, Taehyung made his way towards his intern and so began their strenuous training.