Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Cigarettes—that's what we are. 

You and I are the consolations of each other after a miserable night, after a massive deterioration, after the universe wreaked havoc on almost everything we fought tirelessly for. We have been the morning cup of coffee, first day of spring, whilst at the same time the very first snow, and this kind of warmth and ecstasy, regardless of whether we were with each other's side. My wandering solitude, my human cigar, and because we're the tranquility that we crave, nature was just not kind as we wished it would be, yet at the same time we're just about as deadly with each other's presence just like a cigar—our guilty pleasure that flares and kills us within.

The kindling match that has been the antecedent of friction that made an enormously glorious blaze embodying our craving to be with one another. As it has the likes of the ends of the cigar that lights our darkest days comforted by each other's embrace, even with just talking. As the cigar has to cease caused by too much desire for solace and our naive aspect of the oasis was found destructive by those who knew and inhaled our tale. The smoke coming out of our cigar—seems toxic to other people that they wanted to keep us apart. 

Puff and huff all of the worries away keeping each other's side in the shadows-the gloomy side of the alleys. Inhaling every euphoria before getting caught and grounding us away from each other again. Trying so hard to bottle the smoke that it will not fly too high and a way for the people to see—the grey smoke that they loathe especially when it's from us.

You can't be together, you're unhealthy for each other.

Everyone else but each other, are you out of your mind?

There's no happy ending in this story! Snap out of your craziness! 

Both of you will cause the downfall of each other, don't gamble it. 

Never knew that this kind of cigarette love exists—when you both made each other's stars in the galaxies align and made every snowdrop looks like diamonds turns out to be toxic for other people around you.

Can a cigar be tranquil and at the same time toxic?

Chapter Text

"Damn," Jungkook muttered letting out a huff while he enters the gates of his very own university. I shouldn't have gone drinking with the guys. He thought in his head while his head himself felt a pang of the hangover from last night.

Jungkook repeatedly curses between his breaths while taking his footsteps heavily inside the quiet and cold grounds of the school. Jungkook held up his wrist and checked that it is already 6:30 AM.

She should be here by now.

He felt a shiver caused by the cold morning breeze that passed by him as it made all of the grass on the soccer field sway. It is indeed a cold morning which was not the case days before, since whenever it strikes 6 AM the sun has already risen. Not today though.

Is she late right now? It's already 6:41. Does my Rolex still work? Fuck this hangover, I should've gone home sooner than the guys. That freaking victory party ruined my plans, maybe she already arrived here earlier than me, Jungkook thinks while doing some cardio exercises like boxing to an imaginary figure to keep him warm.

Jungkook immediately diverted his attention at the big gates when it is making a creaking sound which means someone came in or out. His smile is already visible on his face as he looks at the one he's waiting for. As usual, she's dressed comfortably which makes her cute to his eyes, as always. She's singing and looking at the sky while walking. Worry always crosses his mind whenever she does that-enjoying the view above and listening to music without any sense of where she's heading at the moment.

She's just a free-spirited person.

She made her way to where the college building at and when she's finally out of Jungkook's sight from the soccer field that's when he decided to walk his way towards the SHS building. I'll just sleep in the classroom, this pain in my head felt like I've been hammered.

"Why did you even took a stupid and brainless decision to come to school that early without even having breakfast? You're something else, Jungkookie," Jin's scolding Jungkook non-stop after their morning classes and his head is already hurting as it is while he's blabbering.

"I told you... I thought I'm going to be late," Jungkook muttered for the nth time as his only reason. He just said it mindlessly while his friends are on and on like a debate, making his reasons more unreasonable and also teasing their one and only maknae.

After Jungkook muttered what he wants to say-Hobi who just got his conscious who is also the same as Jungkook, struggling and barely surviving with his hangover turns his head looking at Jungkook, "You're early as an early freaking bird! What are you saying about being late? How late can you be at that point JK? Are you planning to be the one to open the university as a security guard?" and with that, all of them laugh as an agreement to Hobi's conclusion.

Jungkook went to his usual spot in the farthest corner of the cafeteria where he can easily spot her sitting or walking inside the cafeteria. This has been his seat since then-like there's an invisible name tag of Jungkook placed everywhere in this spot.

"I'll order for everyone, to shake and use my energy. What y'all guys be getting?" said Taehyung who is already doing a warm-up jog while looking at the displayed food on the counter and then looks at his friends. They immediately gave him a list of their order.

"I'm fine with steak or sausage," Jungkook said when their attention went to his. Everyone patted Taehyung's shoulder as they all thanked him and when it is settled, he went on his merry way.

Jungkook from barely surviving while closing his eyes because of the hangover still notices the change in the environment from everyone minding their own business to being silent as if an angel went inside the room. Of course, for Jungkook it is not a mere idiom because she is an angel.

There she was, a girl with long hair swaying as she moves her body with poise and grace. Everyone was looking at her-because who would not? She's the epitome of a living Goddess. Her features are torture not to look at as it screams elegance and beauty as well as the way she presents herself. She immediately caught Jungkook's eyes from the moment she entered the big cafeteria since he is facing the entrance. The way that their cafeteria is massive that you can hardly notice anyone with a large population of students dine here-the main reason why Jungkook chose his spot, the only reason despite it being too far away from the counter.

She's alone by herself again... I heard she's busy with her upcoming play held someplace out of the town. Jungkook was thinking about watching their rehearsal since her play and their first game will be held on the same day which is the first time he wouldn't be attending. It is where she shines the most and Jeon Jungkook would not wanna miss it for the world.

"Don't dwell on looking at her that much. Remember, everyone is watching you," Jungkook snap out of his daydream about her and her play when Yoongi is suddenly beside him and patted his shoulder once as a warning.

Jungkook acted out as if he was sight-seeing other things and is out of his mind-mindlessly staring at nowhere as he tries to eye those girls who are a few kilometers away from him while fangirling and almost fainted when he looks at their way. He waves at them and they immediately squeal like there's no tomorrow. Good thing they didn't notice.

While Yoongi saw how Jungkook handles the girls and the situation which made him smirk-he can't help but be amused at how his maknae did it with ease like this is his daily routine-which is also the same as that. He also notices that after what he has done, Jungkook's eyes immediately went to find the same girl like his eyes is magnets that want to go closer to that one specific sight, he just shakes his head as a reaction to what he just witnessed.

There she was-already on her seat, the same place as where she is every time she dines in this specific cafeteria which is beside the window. Her face is covered with sunlight and morning breeze as her side of the hair near the window sways to the opposite side which she immediately tucks the strands on the side of her face behind her ear. Jungkook knows her lunch routine as he already predicted the next move which is she opens up her backpack and takes out her bento box as she places it beside the soup that she probably bought earlier.

Jungkook's attention went to the people surrounding her-most especially boys who are stealing glances like him since they are also afraid of approaching her. Her in that kind of access towards the sunlight as she is when she's on the stage-under the spotlight. Lights seem to follow her everywhere like it is where she belongs. It makes her different from any girls inside the campus. She's so surreal.

"Here, there's your coffee for your hangover JK. You've been harsh on your body these past few days tsk," and once again, Jungkook snaps out of his mind when Jimin said something while giving him a hot cup of coffee.

I just can't be late, I don't have all the time in the world to see her every day.

Chapter Text

Jieun's Point of View

"Perfection! Let's get ready for Act VII."

I immediately wipe the tears on my face while I'm heading backstage. My make-up artist is already waiting for me and as soon as I sat down she fixed my hair first. 

So far I never regret that I worked hard to get this role. Though it is tiring changing outfits every now and then since my character is the owner of a Hotel for ghosts. 

"Jieun!"

My attention diverted to Irene that is walking fast towards me with her wide smile calling my name, "You're early! That's new. Your classes are done already? Where's Jiyeon?" I asked while taking off my stilettos. I got used to wearing these ever since this project started since my character—Man Weol tends to change outfits more often than often, like legit 3 outfits per act. 

"I'm so hurt Jieun! I'm the one who's here yet you are asking for that witch? She's currently with her research group I guess. She's having an oral defense later. And yeah, our professor got an emergency meeting with the faculty. We were dismissed at exact lunch break,  I even got you your favorite," she said enthusiastically while raising her right arm where the paper bag is referred to as my favorite so I guess it's from my favorite cookie from this particular bakery. She's been taking care of me since she's much older than me—not that it really matters even though still she's the one who needs more care,  "Anyway, did you hear or read about the recent controversy? Did Tzuyu already told you about it?"

My forehead creases as Irena is acting like it is a matter of life and death, "I don't know a bit of it, why? What is it? Is she okay?" I ask and panic started to alarm my brain as I stood up ready to run outside this department building.

"She's finally dating your nephew! Isn't it great?!" she squealed in delight while pinching my left arm.

The worry on my face and my adrenaline dropped as soon as she finished her sentence. JK and Tzuyu—they're together huh? 

I smiled a bit, "Should we congratulate them then?" I said and take a bite on the cookie that I just pick out of the paper bag, feeling its warm texture that proofs it is fresh out of the oven. 

We head out of our department building which is the Theatre Arts building and headed to the main canteen. I've always like to dine in the main canteen since it has all the delicious food, desserts and beverages that we love. 

And also, it's one of the places in this university that I can see him.

He loves all kinds of food, especially everything that is served in the main canteen. 

"Why are you smiling out of the blue, Jieun? You know you're weird right now, right?" Irene teasing me while wiggling her eyebrows. I just smiled and bump her shoulders with mine like saying it's just nothing and she should not bother asking me why.

All these of the servings of cafeterias in each department are limited that's why most of the students love it here. And besides, it is in the middle of all the department buildings including the elementary and high school building along with the gymnasium, auditorium, etc.

"OMG! The Bisons! They're coming!"

I turned 90 degrees when a loud girl suddenly shouted and squealed on the main door that we just passed by earlier. But instead of seeing everyone being weirded out with the way she screamed, everyone—oh I mean every girl started to take out their makeup pouches and starts to color their faces as much as possible.

"Bison? Isn't that the school's soccer league? What's with them being uh... like this so suddenly knowing the Bisons are coming?" I ask Irene who is behind me while we're in the line on getting food from the counter. 

Irene turns her head to face me while looking at me with disbelief, "What?! You didn't know? Are you born today young lady?! Your nephew and his best friends just recently joined the league! It is already on our school community page and the talk of the town—the whole nation even!" she said and let me emphasize her exaggeration—or not since he and his best friends pretty much rule this school, well since girls and boys are simping for them.

After her sentence, I immediately saw Hobi entering the canteen with his head held high looking cool with his undeniably charming face and taste in fashion, it is quite understandable since his family is known in that field. Followed by Seokjin that is walking normally while looking so humble and quiet while the girls surrounding him are close to kneeling and begging him to look at them. Then there is Namjoon who is as usual in his own mind and probably thinking about academics, he's pretty much the mature-looking in their group but we all know he is not. Jimin being the soft and charming guy that he is, waving here and there, he's a walking comfort that's what everybody says but falling for him is lethal despite it being too easy. Taehyung, on the other hand, has everyone wrapped around his fingers despite him being just as silent as Yoongi. He's mischievous, that's the perfect word for him. Then there is Yoongi, who's quiet as always, he's been that type of guy that is focused on his career, not even one moment in his life did he look at anyone but his friends and his instruments. Lastly, him... I am already eyeing those girls who are seconds away from passing out when he dangerously comb his hair using his right hand as he enters the cafeteria and he looks like he is ready to throw fists since he has this strong aura.

He was not like that though. He changed in a small period and I don't know why.

I divert my attention back to the front on where my line is at and took a few steps forward when I realized I didn't move an inch since I was blank for a moment earlier, without minding them making their way pass by me as they went to find their table for who knows where I silently prayed that they're tables far away from where we will sit. I kinda embedded this one table for me since it's in the corner near the window and away from the food that's why there are no students that try to occupy that space. 

"Why didn't you said even a simple hello to your nephew, girl? He looked at you like he is waiting for you to look at him back to say hi," Irene said without looking at me because she's too occupied in scrolling through her Facebook feed and at the same time looking at the line.

I bit my lip, it became my habit every time I'm bothered, "I told you, we're not that close. We're used to not talking like this, so it's okay and normal," I said and at the same time, it was my time to be served by the lunch ladies. I took a tray and plates and then smiles at the lunch lady that is in charge of the rice.

"Lol, that's very weird. It feels like yesterday and I remember it clearly both of you are close to each other—like you both have that inseparable kind of closeness. And I remember missy when you mentioned that he is the closest one to you since both of you are near in terms of age. So tell me honestly, what happened? Did you guys have a huge fight?" she said while we're getting food from each lunch lady in charge of different types of food. 

I immediately took the needed amount of cash out of my wallet when I already reach the cashier that is placed at the end of the line where we pay for the food that we got, "You know how I despise their side of the family," I didn't intend to add bitterness while muttering or mentioning about that specific family that I share surnames with but it comes out naturally.

Irene also paid for hers, "But is it really necessary for the both of you to be involved by your parents' and grandparents' issues? You know, you guys should not right? It's not healthy, nowhere near healthy to be in that kind of hate cycle forever. You guys should not be the same as your immature and money-driven elders," despite me being bitter and not the biggest fan of that specific family, I knew my friend spits facts. We start to head towards our usual spot in this cafeteria.

I carefully try to find him and where he's at. We were already sitting but I still couldn't find him anywhere in the corner here in the cafeteria. I looked again at Irene who was now taking out her cellphone to take a picture of the food. Though instead of focusing only on Irene, I saw a familiar figure at her back that made my whole body tremble despite the distance. He is a few tables away from us but the only problem is he's facing me... I'm facing him.

I nervously gulped when he starts to look in my way and I look at my friend again so she won't notice my sudden divert of attention. I smiled at her for no reason so that he will think that I am only focusing on having a conversation with my friend and would not notice how bothered I am with my situation. This is what I'm good at anyway... Acting. Pretending.

Chapter Text

6 years ago

"Mom, do you want me to finish that?" the 15-year-old Lee Jieun who is already about to walk her way to school when she sees her mom doing a big pile of laundry outside their house. 

Her mom immediately shakes her head as she signals her to go on her way, "You will be late, I can finish this," she said and Jieun is not buying it. She immediately notices the purplish bruise on her right cheek and a fresh cut on her right hand. Jieun's mom may be great at pretending she's okay and strong but Jieun ain't dumb of a daughter to not notice it. 

Jieun immediately dumps her bag on the side and sits beside her mom despite the short skirts uniform, thankfully she always wears cycling shorts because she's not as graceful as other people would expect, "I'll help you, mom. Don't be stubborn. I'll just wash a few pants and I'm heading off," she said while rolling up her long sleeves uniform and tying her hair. She wouldn't want to be the irresponsible Vice President of their student council that one of those people who is an example of their conducted rule about being tidy by looking like a wet rat.

"You're angry at me too, aren't you?" asks her mom, which almost appears to be faint and voiceless but thankfully it is early in the morning that only the birds are the noises they can hear. 

Jieun looks at her mom and back with washing their clothes, "No," the only thing she said which her mom kinda expected that it was only that but then she starts to speak again, "I was at first, but then again, Dad cheated first when we were younger and you were struggling. So in both of your cases, it was fair that you kinda fell out of love and well, love someone other than him. Although, it is kinda disappointing—all of these. You guys doing that shits and being inconsiderate about me and my sister's feelings. I understand your case but can both of you understand ours too?" she asks without even pausing. This has been bugging her mind since her mom was caught by her dad cheating. For the past few days, she and her sister have been quiet and as much as possible, not including themselves with their issues since they have their own priorities like scholarships.

Jieun's mom stays quiet and regretful, and that's where guilt hits her for saying those things. She thought that she could've stayed silent about their fight. She doesn't want to add weight to both of her parents but her mom asked her a sensitive question that triggered her emotional state. She was calm and she had a LOT more things that she wants to say and harsher than the words she just said. 

The problem is—although she wants answers from her parents about them being inconsiderate and if they really thought about their children's feelings. She kinda predicted what her parents would say—her Dad would be too one-sided and manipulative while her mom would be hurt even with the things she didn't do because that's how fragile and soft her mom is. She didn't want both of the outcomes that's why she stayed quiet. She just has to focus on her studies and her sister since that's the only choice, their parents are broken as fuck and she's tired of hoping that they would be the heroes or the perfect parents she hopes for.

Both of them were silent until Jieun breaks it, "Tita Eve wants you to work for her daughter again?" she asks about her auntie on her Dad's side and Jieun's cousin which is just around the same age as her mom since her Tita Eve is her Dad's oldest sibling out of the seven. Her mother hasn't finished college that is why it is harder for her mom to find a stable job while her Dad resigned from his work just recently since the cheating thing happened because he wanted to get the separation pay so that Jieun's mom would quit her job where the cheating happened.

Her mother nods as a response, "She knew about what happened and offers me one since your cousin needed a secretary," she said, her voice sounds tired that made Jieun's heart sank. She sometimes wishes her mom could be just like the bitchy moms on the television because she couldn't take this feeling of wanting to cry just because her mom sounds like she's in pain most of her life, "By the way, your Tita informed me that the Jeon's just recently moved here in La Coste and their eldest son just recently transferred in your school," her mom said.

Jieun looks at her in disbelief, "So what? I'm assigned by her to spy on Jungkook now? I knew Tita would not offer us something without expecting something in return!" she said with the full-on range as she pictures out her aunt being the one who always boasts about her
"good" deeds but she knew it was just her facade so that she will have everyone do something for her favor. 

"You were close with him, right? I'm sorry, Jieun-ah. Do you want me to decline? I'll just find a new job, it should be easy," her mother asks with the voice that has always been the water that splashes every fire Jieun has for everything—for her aunt, for her dad, for her dad's side of the family, and the world. for being unfair to the good people that deserve everything. Her mom's voice will always be her kryptonite. 

A secretary for her cousin will be a much easier job for her mom than the usual jobs that she has been to for the past years, like a maid, dishwasher, and a nanny, which is a decent job and Jieun salutes everyone who is loving those jobs and acing it, but for her mom who unfortunately encounters abusive customers, employees, and employers—it is a no. Her mom, just as she said, is so fragile and sensitive to anything, like harsh words and physical things which will always take a big toll on her emotional and mental state. Although despite her mom being sensitive. she's also the strongest person in Jieun's eyes because she's been through every monster this world has to offer but never, even once, quit on a job or a situation and just survive.

A tear fell from her eyes which snaps her from her deep thoughts. Secretary would be the most pleasant job that her mom could have experience. Jieun bit her lip, her habit every time she is in deep thoughts or things that stress her out, "Okay, I'll try. I'm just gonna update whatever is happening to their family's lives? That's easy," she said, trying so hard not to show her vulnerable side of this matter.

Lee Jieun is 15 minutes early before the flag ceremony that is held every day for all of the student population to line up in their huge gymnasium. She went straight inside their student council room so that they will be assigned which grade they will facilitate this day. She sees Kim Myungsoo, their student council President, who is already standing in front of everyone. 

"I'm sorry for being late," she said politely especially at Myungsoo who is a year older than her which is currently in his 10th grade. Junior high is in charge of the whole high school students including the senior high, grade 11 and grade 12 especially grade 10 will be claiming the President position and the 9th grade for the VP position.

Myungsoo, being famous for his kindness and a dependable image that everyone falls for, just smiles at Jieun who is walking straight to the chair beside him, "Since I already assigned most of the grade levels here to every one of you excluding me and Jieun, we are left with the new students which are the grade 7. Comments are now allowed," he said as he smoothly ends it with him combing his hair and preparing himself for later while sitting beside Jieun.

Jieun wouldn't deny that she has a huge crush on Myungsoo, who wouldn't fall for someone as cool, smart, kind, tries to be humorous but ends up being cute, and also he's very hardworking. He's just the perfect guy that deserves a perfect girl, Jieun is nowhere near thinking that she's that kind of one. 

Grunts and rolling of eyes from their co-officers after the announcement of who's going to be with Myungsoo on this task. It is understandable and Jieun gets it that there will always be petty people who will really fuss about this little matter when there are other things in life that should be prioritized at.

10 minutes before the flag ceremony, the student council ended their meeting and walk their own ways to the year levels that were assigned for them to facilitate or assist.  

As for Jieun and Myungsoo, they went straight to the corner of the gymnasium where the new students wait since they are not assigned nor informed with their class section nor their assigned classrooms yet. This will be announced after the flag ceremony where the other grade levels already went to their respective classes while the grade 7 stays.

Jieun and Myungsoo are silent along the way since Jieun is not in the mood, not even excited to see the guy who was once close to her when they were young. They have always been the ones who get to play with each other and talk to each other since they are the youngest in both clans. Jieun was fond of his nephew despite the dispute between both clans ever since money or inheritance was involved. 

She was never angry at Jeon Jungkook nor bullies him for being the grandson of an adopted branch of their family, his grandmother was adopted by Jieun's grandfather's brother. She treated Jeon Jungkook equally as how she treats everyone. She admits that she cares for him too, since they're family—not by blood but still.

And there Jieun saw the familiar pair of doe eyes that are roaming around the corners of the gymnasium. She saw how shy and introverted the boy is, he looks like a bunny who is scared of the world and everyone around him. Those doe eyes, instantly made Jieun's heart melts. She should remember they are not involved with the feud this family has, not the 13-year-old Jeon Jungkook. 

Jieun smiles instantly when the scared and worried doe eyes darted at her, she immediately waves at him with the warmest smile she could ever give, "Jungkook-ah, remember me?" she asks as she immediately saw how his eyes shifted from being scared to finally saw some kind of home that calms him for the first time. 

Chapter Text

"How are you? Are you still attending your taekwondo classes?" 

Jieun tries to lighten up the mood as soon as the announcement of their sections ended and now they are on their way to their respective classrooms which Jieun and Myungsoo are still in charge of the kids. 

Jungkook has been silent and shy the entire time but the memory of them being annoying and playing when they were kids made Jieun laugh once in a while. Jungkook, despite being two years younger than her, their height difference is not that big. He's a few inches smaller than her which he can still look at her without tilting his head up. 

The boy just gave her a small glance and nodded his head, and it made Jieun smile once again—almost a laugh actually.

"Don't be shy! La Coste may be different from the city but it's okay. You'll be okay. Everyone may not be as techy as you but you'll get along with them. Don't be on your PSP or other gadgets and make friends, okay? I can't be your favorite playmate forever, you know? Remember what you said before?" she said while letting out a small laugh remembering the times when he always gets jealous whenever other kids are trying to play with her. He wanted just her and him without anyone involved. 

She saw how his cheeks, neck, and ears turn red. She finds him adorable but at the same time, she didn't want to keep him uncomfortable with the situation that is why she immediately cut it off. 

"Jieun-ah? You'll be okay on your own?" Myungsoo suddenly asks since he has to assist the other sections after they decided to divide the 6 sections to facilitate. 

Jieun immediately smiles, assuring him that she will be fine even though she already assured him that it is okay for her to facilitate 3 sections when Myungsoo offered that he'll have 5 or 4 and she will focus on one or two sections, "It's nothing! I'm much better with kids than you, you know? Don't worry too much Mister President," she said, making it playful so that he doesn't have to worry since there is nothing to worry in the first place. 

Myungsoo grins and suddenly shuffles her hair, finding her cute, "You're good with kids since you're a kid yourself, Miss Vice President," he said without stopping shuffling her hair as she is tilting down her head because of it. 

When he stops, Jieun glares at him with messy hair now. It made her so adorable since she has this small, soft, and pretty feature that despite being angry, still brought a smile to anyone's face, "I'm not a kid!" Jieun almost shouted as Myungsoo went on the opposite way with the kids.

Myungsoo just looks at her from the back and winks that immediately made her blush and tongue-tied even until Myungsoo is nowhere to be seen. She immediately snaps when Jungkook suddenly went past in front of her with the other kids behind him.

She immediately tries to keep up and talk to him but he, to Jieun's surprise, gave her a cold treatment and the shyness that she sensed from earlier him went away. 

"I think he's jealous noona," another kid spoke from behind and he is just almost as tall as her and he has this kind of mischievous smile like he's almost teasing her to Jungkook, he seems friendly and an extrovert as Jieun's first impression of him.

Jieun laughs, "What are you saying? He's my nephew! Anyway, what's your name? You're from 7 - Lilac too?" she asks and the kid playingly wiggles his eyebrows and pretends to think about his section when it was just announced minutes earlier. 

The kid gives up being playful and laughs before answering Jieun, "My name is Kim. Tae. Hyung! Yes, I heard I'm going to be in 7 - Lilac," he said with so much energy that he even pretended to be a military officer while introducing his name which immediately made Jieun laugh her ass out. 

"Okay okay, Kim. Tae. Hyung! You just immediately made my day. Let's get into your classes before I will be responsible for getting you late for your first day of class," she said still having that smile on her face while looking at Taehyung who is also laughing with her.

Taehyung suddenly stops smiling and acts like he just remembers something, "Ah noona! My friend, Jimin, is late again. I couldn't find him anywhere. Please let's tell my teacher to wait for him and let Jimin be my seatmate," he said while pleading and holding Jieun's right arm with both of his hands swaying it back and forth.

Jieun pretends to be thinking even though the first day of classes ain't really a big deal for everyone, "Hmm, okay but I have one request from you and I promise to help you and your friend," she said and Taehyung is all ears while nodding as an agreement, "I want you to befriend with the boy who's with me earlier but left. He's kinda shy and he may be sensitive but he's a good kid, I promise," she said while raising her right hand as a sign of a promise about being honest. 

The kid, Taehyung, pretends to be thinking again and at the same time pulls out a check using his thumb and pointer finger and places it under his chin. Jieun laughs at his playfulness and definitely thought that his personality will totally be compatible with Jeon Jungkook. Jieun also silently wishes that his friend will like Jungkook too.

"Deal!"

When Jieun finally did all of her tasks, she went inside their classroom and saw her classmates smile and wave at her as a greeting. As she expected, there are will be no classes on the first day of classes. 

"Jieun-ah!!!"

She immediately looks in the direction where the shriek while calling her name came from, and she saw her two best friends—Irene and Jiyeon running towards her like they are in a marathon. Both of the girls slam their bodies towards the helpless and petite Jieun compared the two, "Are you trying to kill me?!" she said as they're still hugging her and pinching her side of her stomach.

Jiyeon looks at her angrily, "Is it really hard for you to type a message this whole summer?! What kind of a friend are you Lee Jieun!" she said while giving her a kick in the butt.

Jieun looks at her in disbelief at what her friend just did but smiles afterward, "What?! I message you both once in a while! I just really had to work remember? And there are just things going in our home," she said as the three of them went to the three vertical chairs beside the window since they have the pride as high as the Mount Everest and all of them like a seat which is beside the window.

"You and your mysterious ass, Jieun! You and your mysterious ass," Irene chanted as they are already seated at their respective seats, "At least tell us about your encounter with Myungsoo Oppa today! I knew you were going to be the VP, no one is as goody-two-shoes as you," Irene added as they laugh after that.

Both of Jieun's friends started to look at her like they are waiting for the answer, "What about Oppa? We were busy? He was busy and always will, I guess," she said as the two doesn't seem to be satisfied with how little the scope they just heard.

"We were not blind, Jieun! We saw how both of you were together after the flag ceremony! It's impossible how little of a context you just said right now! Are you two in a secret relationship or something? You're sus," Jiyeon said as she is analyzing her mysterious friend.

Jieun just laughs at the both of them, "By the way, my nephew is a new student here! We will be going to accompany them this lunch, aye? Just this once, he doesn't have friends yet," she said as she closed both of her hands as a sign of pleading. 

Both girls are confused at first and shock at the same time because it is the first time Jieun asks them for a favor and for the first time they will meet her nephew, "Uhh, perhaps am I required to make daddy jokes? You know, kids love that.  I hope your nephew is not a fan of crying like loud crying," said Jiyeon that immediately made Jieun laugh.

"Lol, Jiyeon! From the looks of it, Jieun doesn't even cry, not even once! So I guess this kid will be okay. Do we need to buy something? Like a toy or a present, kids like presents right? This is Jieun's nephew, we should give something!" said Irene.

"You guys!" Jieun interrupts as they are about to make a big mistake, "My nephew isn't that young! He's in junior high now, 7th grade. He just transferred schools and now he just really needs company for the meantime," she explained.

They both got shocked after the revelation. Hours have passed, they have decided that they will just have a half-day since some teachers just tend to post something on their group chat for more announcements but for the elementary level or probably including the 7th grade, they just went inside the class briefly and get out hours before lunch.

"Behave, okay! My nephew is kinda sensitive and very very shy. Please don't do anything stupid," Jieun said and both of her friends just suppress their laughs and did a salute as if Jieun is their officer. 

"Noona!" 

Jieun finds where the voice came from and she saw Taehyung, the mischievous kid earlier, waving his right hand and walking towards her with a big smile on his face while there's her nephew behind Taehyung and probably the Jimin kid that Taehyung mentioned earlier. He is wrapping his right arm around her nephew that made her smile.

Her attention went to Taehyung who is wrapping his right arm around her shoulders which she immediately pinches his left stomach to get away from this super active kid, "Hi noonas!" Taehyung also greets her two friends when he notices Jieun is not alone.

Both Irene and Jiyeon are dumbfounded like they just snap out of their imagination when Taehyung greets them, "Oh hi... Kids," Jiyeon and Jieun start to laugh when Irene greets Taehyung and the others back like she just saw a ghost. 

"Let's find a spot to eat lunch! Before your parents or guardians will come to get you, we have to eat something first."

Chapter Text

"Noona!"

Jieun looks at Jimin who's calling her from behind when she finally gets to go and buy their orders, she smiles at the cute kid as he approaches her, "Let me help. I haven't introduced myself yet, I'm Park Jimin. I'm Kim Taehyung's best friend," he said, she figures that he's also extroverted just like Kim Taehyung based on how smooth he handles on initiating a conversation.

She smiles at him once again, "Nice to meet you Jimin-ah! I'm Lee Jieun, a student council VP from grade 9. You can count on me, but I'm gonna kick your ass if you happen to be into illegal and bad stuff. Anyway, did your teacher assigned your seat beside Taehyung?" she asks as they are walking towards the counter and straight to the line where the students are in.

The boy nods in delight, "Yeah, I heard it was all because of you. Thank you noona. Don't worry, I'm a nice boy, I and Taehyung don't do bad, you know, stuff," he assures as he smiles brightly that Jieun couldn't even spot his eyes anymore.

She shuffles her hair as they notice that they're already in the first counter, "What are you getting Jimin-ah?" asks Jieun who gets a big pile of rice for her two best friends that have a monstrous appetite.

Jimin shows her the big proportion of various food, "You could finish that? I guess I'm the only one who has a normal appetite," she comments as she made a shocked expression but Jimin only smiles at her.

"I can't finish this but I know Taehyung can. I know he only has these variations of rice recipes and I just want to share him these so that he can pair them with his rice snacks," he says as he shows her an eye smile again and continues to get as much as he can.

Jieun looks at Jimin like she just found another kind human in this cruel world and prays that he wouldn't change, "Aigoo, eat well both of you," she said and Jimin just smiles at her once again.

She also thought about what Jungkook would eat but she remembers that he probably has a big lunch box as she thought about how spoiled he is with her cousin as well as their whole clan. He's kind of the favorite that's what she noticed. It would be impossible if he would not have at least 2 lunch boxes.

After they finish buying everyone's lunch, they went back only to find Taehyung making both of her friends laugh and roll over the floor. Even Jiyeon who is a bad bitch shed tears of joy while wiping it endlessly because tears kept falling while Irene is already on the floor holding her chair as she's trying to get up but fails miserably.

Taehyung is still telling his story and she hears Jimin's laugh for his best friend beside him like he already knew what stories would Taehyung tells. Jieun immediately looks for his nephew and her heart melts once again. She saw his doe eyes glistens as he is watching Taehyung and both of her best friends laughing like it made his day with a small smile plasters on his face. And that just made her whole day.

"What did we miss?" Jimin asks as both of them sat on the vacant seats left just for them.

Once again, her best friends laugh just by Jimin making them remember and making Taehyung talk about what he just said once more. Jieun looks at Jungkook, not really anticipating Taehyung's jokes, and caught that Jungkook is already staring at her, without the smile that she saw on his face earlier. He looks shy as he slowly went for his bag and pause like he's contemplating getting something out of his bag.

Probably he's shy eating in front of me? Jieun thinks.

Jieun immediately went for her bag and takes her usual lunch-Triangle kimbap. This has been her favorite ever since she discovered that this food is only 10 pesos and her stomach would already be full with 2 pieces of the triangle kimbap, "Let's start eating shall we? I'm done preparing my packed lunch," she said and kind of made it a little loud and enthusiastically.

Her two best friends react about her lunch once again, "Ya! Jieun, I told you to get what you want with the money that I gave you! You could have saved your 20 pesos," Irene, being a mother, scolded Jieun in front of the kids.

"I bought these earlier on the way here, so you're kind of late my dear Jiyeon. What do you expect? I'm dumping these? No way!" Jieun says as she laughs and steals some glances at Jungkook who is now staring at her 2 triangle kimbap.

She notices how his hands are in a fist form as he is also contemplating about opening his bag's zipper, "Jeon Jungkook! Tell your family about your aunt's stubbornness okay? Tell them that she always has the same lunch every day! You know you need more nutrition than that Lee Jieun!" Irene added on Jiyeon's scolding.

Jieun rolls her eyes, "Why? Is it my fault that I don't eat as much as you guys? This is more than enough for me already!" she says as she shows them how she likes it by eating a big chunk out of the triangle kimbap with tuna and mayo inside.

Her attention darts to Jungkook's side when a small sound came from his side of the table. She sees that he's already starting to pull out his lunch boxes one by one. It is 3 in total with an additional small size box that she guesses is the side dish or the sauce perhaps. She looks at Jungkook's face and notices that he's just staring at it and seems like he's thinking something.

"You..."

Jieun almost drops her kimbap when he starts to say a word, she is anticipating it so much that she forgot how to blink, "You wanna share... this with... me?" he asks, he was stuttering here and there and she heard it despite the very faint voice coming from Jungkook.

She immediately gives him a very wide smile even though he's still looking down and his ears are so red that she immediately notices it, "Wow! Thank you, Jungkookie! These are delicious, wow! I got hungry all of a sudden. You wouldn't mind my big appetite, right? You also love food," she asks and playfully sounds like he's threatening him about eating most of his lunch but she's not really that foodie, she lied about her appetite and her best friends notices.

"Seriously, this girl is scary," commented Jiyeon which made all of them laugh including Jieun who is now opening Jungkook's lunch boxes and arrange it for him.

She's just so happy that Jungkook is already talking, a small progress is still progress. This is already a big of progress for Jieun and Jungkook, mainly Jungkook. Jieun predicts that Jungkook will get shy if she will wait for him to eat first, that is why she went in for the fried shrimp since it is her favorite.

Jieun looks at Jungkook who just saw what she did and she immediately notices a small smile break away from his lips, "Wow! Your family cook, Mr. Tziao, right? Wow! He's amazing as always, just like how I remember when we used to visit your place every holiday!" she said and turns her attention to her and his friends, "Try these! They're amazing!" she said.

"Is it okay, Jungkook-ssi?" Irene asks while Jiyeon is already raising her chopsticks with sushi from Jungkook's lunch ready to put it inside her mouth and stops.

Jungkook slowly nods and still looking down at his lunch, "Okay let's just share lunches, everyone!" Jimin initiated as he places his tray in the middle first and the others follow. Jieun's attention went to Taehyung and finds him cute while smiling widely with his bread-like cheeks that she couldn't help but pinch.

"Eat well everyone," she says, heart melted with the sight she's looking at and eventually went to Jungkook and his eyes that Jieun read as his happy eye smile.

Her smile stops when she felt a painful pinch on the side of her stomach and looks at Jiyeon and Irene looking at her, "You! You're the one who should eat more! Don't just sit there!" they scold her once more when they notice she's not eating.

Jieun's smile is visible once again.

Chapter Text

"I can't believe I'm seeing you guys here," Jieun said as she is glaring at Taehyung, Jimin, and yes, including her one and only nephew inside detention.

The Peace Officers were roaming around the classroom during class hours and found the three boys roaming around the cafeteria, when they got called out it was reported that they even ran just to avoid the officers from the cafeteria to the soccer field.

Gladly, Taehyung slips, and the other boys tried to help him and they got caught.

Taehyung's boxy smile is still facing her and when she glares at him, he immediately pouts. Jimin, on the other hand, still looking down while pouting he's probably the one who is shy among the three. While Jungkook, he's silent, but he is not apologetic either. Not the face or the expression she expected, at least from his eyes which she can read. He probably enjoyed their adventure or the recklessness.

Myungsoo breaks the silence as he opens the door from the outside and it looks like he was running all the way from his class to the detention room, "I'm really sorry you had to be in charge here Jieun-ah. The guidance counselor assigned this task to me, I just really had to attend the class," he says in between catching his own breath.

The girl feels that butterflies in her stomach again, about how considerate and kind this guy is, "No, no! I don't really mind. I understand oppa, classes are very much important to us that we should not tend to skip it, especially roaming around the cafeteria and soccer field," her attention immediately went to the boys in front of her that immediately tilt down their heads once again when they heard Jieun emphasizing the topic about classes.

She heard Myungsoo chuckles as he immediately understood the situation, "These kids are living the life huh? Not too much, young lads, school is important too. There's always time for fun and games, class hours ain't included," he said as he walks beside Jieun and shuffles her hair, "You've done your job amazingly as always Miss Vice President. You can proceed to your class, I'll be taking over from now," he said as Jieun tries so hard not to blush.

Not at these three idiots in her life start to tease her and Myungsoo, well except for Jungkook who is quiet as always. Although she's worried if he will talk to his parents about this.

Jieun immediately stands up and bows at her sunbaenim. She looks at the three boys and glares at them, "Learn from this experience, get it?" she warns them and went straight to the door. She almost ran so that she could still attend her class.

When she already arrived in their building, she stopped when she notices how Yoongi-her classmate for almost 2 years now, "Min Yoongi," she calls him. He drops his being a quiet and sneaky cat tactic when he heard her.

Yoongi looks at her with his cold stare just like how he does with everyone, "Lee Jieun, there you are," he said and Jieun smirks when he tries to be cocky, "I was just about to go to the infirmary," as he tries to get pass by her.

She went immediately in front of him, "You know I'm not that stupid, Min Yoongi. You've seen me stopping you for 2 years now, and I always win. Shouldn't you be turning back to where you should really be right now?" she said with a wide grin.

As much as he really wants to get out of every freaking class, Jieun knew he can't handle a girl fighting or stopping her from this, "The place where I should be is not in class though," he said as he shows her his smirk too.

"You should've ditched before stepping foot on the school grounds then. Why making our lives harder Min Yoongi-ssi? Now, come on. Let me assist you to the classes where you love the most," she said as she tries to get a hold of the boy but he suddenly dodges her and starts running towards somewhere.

"Fuck."

Jieun starts to run like she's on a million-kilometer marathon. This guy always sleeps in class and always shows people that everything is wasting his precious time and rather spend it sleeping. For someone who loves sleeping, he really loves teasing her every damn time.

"MIN YOONGI!"

She shouts frustratingly that she sees two students who are just passing by and were shocked when Yoongi almost bump into them while running for his life. They look like they're her hoobae or junior but she has no choice as of now, and one of them is a nerd who owns the kind of backpack that looks like it will really work, "Hey-ahh Mister, can I please borrow your bag? I'm part of the student council, thank you!" she said and she smoothly slides his bag out from his broad shoulders and heck it is indeed heavy.

She increases her speed and spins the bag with both of her hands, a good thing she's good at aiming. The only problem here is that she hopes he will not be injured from this. When her calculated timing was on, she releases the bag while facing Yoongi who's still running.

Jieun was skeptical when she notices in a millisecond that the bag is kind of high than what she expected but drops her jaw when it hits Yoongi's head to shoulders perfectly that he drops from the impact. She's praying so hard that he's not yet dead while she also hears the two hoobaes or juniors that are gasping as they went to Yoongi first.

"What did you do?!" says the guy who has a weird fashion sense and is together with the nerd guy who Jieun borrowed a bag from.

Yoongi groans that everyone in that vicinity focuses on, Jieun went to him as fast as she could, "Hey! Good thing you're still not dead!" she said as she grips both of his arms.

The guy glares at her, "You almost killed me! Why did you fucking do that?!" he was already shouting at her which is the first time after they have known each other for 2 years and been doing this cop and robber for that span of time.

Jieun raises her right eyebrow, "You told me you were going to the infirmary! I'm doing you a fucking favor, you need to step up your acting skills," she said as she smirks at him for the purpose of annoying him more.

Min Yoongi shouts and wanting to hurt Jieun but she knew she's the type of guy who wouldn't do that to a girl. Good thing she is one, "You triggered my patience, Min Yoongi. You know me, you know better than to just run like a bitch. Let's go to class then if you won't thank me for jacking up your infirmary excuse," she stood up and the both of their juniors were already jaw dropped at what they just witnessed.

"Hey! You guys there! Do you have any classes?!"

Jieun knew she was damned. Sir Trinidad-the infamous terror professor sees them on the school grounds... during school hours.

She knew she's damned.

"Noona?!"

Jieun was greeted by an exaggerated reaction from the three boys, and yes, that includes Jungkook who is now widening his doe eyes. Kim Taehyung even gasps as he covers his mouth while Jimin was the one who shouted noona and looking so confused. Even Myungsoo and his pointed cat-like eyes widen as soon as she steps foot back in the detention room.

"Kim Myungsoo-ssi, I believe your Vice President just caused a commotion with these men right here outside during class hours. They were shouting and playing, how irresponsible. How can you be a role model to these kids?! Tsk, such a disappointment," he said as a final retort and exit the detention.

She heard Myungsoo's sighs, "You're catching your classmate again Jieun-ah? I told you, you should really be careful of your temper. You always get in trouble whenever you let out your anger," he says as she looks at him with regretful eyes that made Myungsoo forget all of his worries away, "Just don't do it again and I'll cover you up, this is the last time Lee Jieun! The last one!"

The only girl in the room mentally partied in her brain and it stops when Myungsoo suddenly asks, "I knew Min Yoongi, of course-You've been kicked in the ass for the nth time by Lee Jieun. You should really be embarrassed Yoongi-ssi. You should know by now why she's chosen as the Vice President and most probably your President next year."

Yoongi scoffs mockingly, "President with a temper, my ass."

Jieun didn't give him a glance but instead raises her right foot and aims Yoongi's foot behind her which later on Yoongi yelp in pain. Everyone in the room was not blind to not notice that including the two new faces as they laugh at the poor guy.

"Anyway, you two, may both of you state your names and your class section. It must have been your first time in detention. What made you rebel at this exact moment?" Myungsoo asks the two guys who went with us.

The guy that Jieun borrowed a bag from scratches his nape, "I am Kim Namjoon from 8 - Gold. We were just passing by and suddenly this girl, I mean sunbaenim," he looks at Jieun and went immediately shy as he looks down once more, "Suddenly snatches my bag and throws it," he said, finally finishes it after a stutter here and there.

The other guy that has a strange fashion sense in Jieun's perspective suddenly raises his finger and points it at Jieun looking horrified, "Do you... Do you some kind of superpowers? I know aliens exist but are you like superman? Is Krypton real?" he said hysterically that made Jieun and the others laugh. His reaction is priceless!

Namjoon glares at him, "Really Hobi? Really? What she did was explainable by the law of physics, you didn't know?" he asks the guy named Hobi which they heard from Namjoon who is calling him that.

Hobi just looks at him clueless and still confused about everything. Namjoon gave him a 'are-you-serious' look before Myungsoo clears his throat to get both of their attention and everyone too since they are too entertained by both Namjoon and Hobi.

"Just sign these, write your name and section also," Myungsoo said as he places the ballpen in front of him that both of the guys made us of.

Everyone turns their attention to Myungsoo's phone ringing violently that the owner immediately picks it up, "What is it, Kim Seokjin?" he asks the caller as he looks tense and a minute later he suddenly raises his left hand where his Rolex lies. Everyone sees how he widens his eyes like he is already late for something and at the same time looks at them especially Lee Jieun.

She already knows what he's into right at this moment. They have been together in the student council for years now. If her guesses are right, he has an important class to attend and at the same time stuck with the detention task that the guidance counselor has given him while the counselor took a notice to leave from work. Jieun knows she is the only option whenever he is in the middle of this crisis but how could he ask her for a favor when she's one of the students that are detention.

"Kim Seokjin, you're done with your presentation, right? Please do me a favor."

Chapter Text

"Hello, kids! I'm Kim Seokjin and I guess I'd be the one in charge at the moment while your beloved President will go on his very brief presentation and he will run his way back since he is well aware that I am not capable of handling kids—in general, humans."

With that kind of introduction by Kim Myungsoo's classmate, everyone involuntarily laughs while Jieun just chuckles since she is already familiar with Seokjin.

She also saw how Myungsoo grins at his friend and somehow pats him on the shoulder which Seokjin just respond with a glare.

"Okay, I'm gonna excuse myself for a moment. Continue writing," Myungsoo said as he went his gaze at Jieun who is looking at him back, he slightly nods at her which she nods back as a reply.

Seokjin sees what Myungsoo did and looks at the person with who he did it. His eyes widen when he saw the Vice President right before his eyes and immediately points at her when Myungsoo was finally out of the room, "Lee Jieun?! The prim and proper, i-will-kill-those-who-breaks-the-rules feisty Vice President, Lee Jieun?! Why are you here?! This is a rare sight yo! This is impossible! How?!"

Jieun looks at the confused guy in front of them without a bit of regret and embarrassment on her face, "That's what I did actually. I was hunting a stray cat, you know? But then some kind of bulldog came and I guess it was unfortunate that somehow the cat got my tongue," she says as she still saw how Seokjin is confused and scratching his back nape.

She heard Jimin laughing and smirks because someone finally understands. Jimin is looking at Yoongi and then Jieun. When his gaze met Yoongi again, he was already looking at attempts to throw him his notebook. Jimin shuts up while Taehyung who is so confused trying to get Jimin's attention to ask but he was already focused on writing.

Jeon Jungkook sees everything and everyone immediately understood the situation.

"So we have kids here," Seokjin suddenly notices the three elephants in the room, "Got in trouble on the first day huh? That's bold but does any one of you who is bold enough for a challenge?" the student in charge smirks as he is placing his hands under his chin like he is into something big.

Jieun immediately massages her temple since she already knew how Seokjin is capable of—being childish and stupid. Despite the sunbae, mature and role-model facade, behind all of those is just him being a wild teenager which is very far from Myungsoo.

Until now, Jieun still could not understand why they're close friends. She gazes at Seokjin who is making the biggest smirk that anyone could imagine.

Jimin, Taehyung, and Jungkook are intimidated and a little bit scared being the kids that they are while Namjoon and Hobi are confused and curious. Although Hobi has this worry that is very visible on his face.

"The one who loses the game will buy everyone's lunch. Y'all in or nah? Oh, by the way, excluding you Jieun. This is only for the men," Seokjin trying to sound like someone who is having a serious negotiation—like they are having a deal with the demon.

Namjoon leans back on his seat as he starts to crosses his arms on his chest, "What kind of game is that... Kim Seokjin-ssi?" he said as his voice went serious and lower than they heard earlier. Hobi, who is next to him, is so bothered that his friend had the guts to ask the arrogant sunbaenim in front of them.

Kim Seokjin also leans back as he taps his fingers on his table and starts to laugh like a mad man, "Kinda hard actually... It takes the bravest man to challenge me. But don't y'all be crying yet, if someone in here wins against me—I'll treat everyone in this room 3 lunches. No cash limit," he says as he works on his playful grin.

Jieun immediately rolls her eyes and scans everyone in the room. She saw Jimin who is now interested in Seokjin's offer and tries to encourage Taehyung using their eyes as their communication while Namjoon is nodding repeatedly like he likes the guy's offer. Hobi on the other hand is now thinking, gone the worried face that he has earlier. Her eyes went to Jungkook who is now biting his lower lips.

She looks at Seokjin—more like glares at the man in front of him that just spat non-sense in front of the kids and she stood up, "This is absurd sunbaenim! Let's forget about this and focus on what the President commands us to do in the first place! This is not a playground that you can recruit anyone to play with your games! They are just kids!" her voice started to growl like she's ready to devour Seokjin with her fist. 

"Noona! We're not kids anymore," Jieun turns her attention to Jimin who did not help her at all! She gave him a furrowed eyebrows and he scratches his nape as a response. 

Jieun then spots Taehyung standing up while looking at her and Seokjin who is now happy with their conversation, "Deal! You better prepare your wallet, old guy! Because I will beat you like a flour," and then he faces Jieun with a very cute smile that immediately calm but at the same time confuses the girl, "Don't worry noona! We will win this! We will feast with this arrogant old guy's wallet, I assure you. We will win," Taehyung dramatically said like he is some kind of old action drama.

And then the two little dumplings went to Seokjin first as the "old guy" in the room leans forward to entertain the two kids, "The game will be... Arm wrestling," he extended his right arm on the table and open his hands as an invite for the said game. 

Everyone in the room felt like they just got splashed by warm water after roaming in the middle of the snowstorm when they heard that it is just a game of arm wrestling which for them is just a piece of cake. Jieun combs her hair from the back looking at the guys who seem to be excited to beat the hell out of anyone just for a lunch treat. 

"Toxic masculinity is a freaking disease," she mutters against her breathe as she sees Jimin getting beaten up just within 3 minutes, and there comes Taehyung who looks so confident like he's enjoying everything. Then there goes Namjoon, Hobi, and Yoongi despite finding this absurd at first. They are kids after all— and guys.

Jieun looks at Jungkook who is now standing and gulping nervously. She immediately walks towards her nephew and holds his left arm to stop him, "You shouldn't join them. They're just being playful, it's all a joke," she said, trying so hard to convince him but at the same time worried for her. She's looking at him like what is happening is not a big deal.

His Bambi eyes shine as it gazes at Jieun's and went down to where she holds his arm. Slowly, he extends his free arm which is the right arm as he slowly and at the same time contemplating. Jieun sees how his right arms rise in front of her until he felt the cold hands that touch her left hands that are holding his left arm, "It's okay," his voice was faint as she tries to read his eyes again but he just met her gaze for a split second then turns his head away from her.

She looks at the boy walking towards Kim Seokjin. She watches them trying so hard to beat Seokjin but minutes pass they ended up laughing and having fun with each other. Jieun's brows furrow every time they change the atmosphere but she then realizes that I guess that's just some boys' way or another language for making friends.

A smile is now visible to Jieun's face as she saw how fond Seokjin is to Jungkook as they arm wrestle and how the other guys are too while cheering for him. They are now trying to wrestle each other's bodies since Seokjin loses on Namjoon's second attempt. Her gaze went to Jungkook who is now looking at guys and she sees the most beautiful smile again. The same smile that the other boys have even Yoongi, Jieun laughs as Yoongi fell on the floor laughing his ass out.

"Did I miss something?" 

Myungsoo, who just ran his way after his presentation, catching his breath as he whispers the question at Jieun who is smiling so beautifully while looking at the chaotic students who are supposed to be behaving. He is about to scold them especially Seokjin for failing to discipline the kids but the first thing Myungsoo noticed is Jieun's smile. 

She just looks at him and smiles then gazes at the guys again. Myungsoo once again looks at the seven boys that are now tickling Seokjin to the ground. There he understands why Jieun reacts this way as a smile also crept on his face.

They just witnessed the beauty of youth.

Chapter Text

"Jieun, are you sure your parents will be okay about you coming home late?"

Myungsoo and Jieun have been checking every record since both of their classes dismissed and went into the student council room to do this. Myungsoo for the first time stopped checking the records, noticing that it is already getting dark outside their glass window. His gaze remains on Jieun who's still focused on her task. 

"Yeah, I just texted mom that I won't be joining dinner. They understood the situation, you?" she asks, and still, her attention is glued on the papers in front of her. 

The way the question bounces back at him kind of amuses Myungsoo, "What about me? I'm a guy. I can handle myself. Let me drop you at your house after this. You being home late is my fault anyway," he offers to the girl who finally gives him her attention and drops the papers she was holding.

Her face shows confusion, "What about you being a guy? You shouldn't be complacent just because you're a guy. Both of us have livers, hearts, eyes, kidneys, and lungs that can be totally donated for a million bucks. You should drop that mindset, Mister President," she says as she leans back and stretches her arms and legs, "Okay, I guess I could use a free ride. Thank you very much!" 

Minutes have passed and they are organizing the papers that they have checked as they are already cleaning up and ready to go home. As soon as Jieun has done organizing the papers that she worked on earlier, she faces Myungsoo who is also done with his works and smiles at her since they worked hard. 

Unexpectedly, in the middle of them congratulating each other by smiling, Jieun's stomach grumbles so loudly since both of them are the only ones who are inside the closed room, "You want to grab something to bite?" he offers as he is trying to suppress his chuckles knowing that it will add some fuel on her being embarrassed already, "The main cafeteria is still open, or do you want to go outside to eat?" he asks her politely.

Jieun faces him bravely with her red-colored cheeks and ears trying so hard not to make what happened a big deal, "Let's just go to the cafeteria," she answers as she takes her steps towards the door as she hears his soft chuckles behind her back. She notices the lights are already off which indicates behind her Myungsoo went for the switch and locks the door of the student council room as they are already outside.

She looks at the big grounds of their campus and the skies that are now dark as the stars are already shining and visible. "Let's go?" she looks at Myungsoo who is already beside her. She nods as a response as they walk towards where the main cafeteria is located. 

La Coste is at the most beautiful if it is nighttime. Since La Coste is a suburban area, you can rarely hear cars and other vehicles pass by. As both Jieun and Myungsoo walk their way they can hear the crickets, chirps, and mostly feels the cold breeze that's just passing by very harshly every minute. 

Lee Jieun felt a coat covering her body from the back and she is not a fool to not know it is Myungsoo's coat since they are basically the ones walking on the school grounds. She looks at the guy who is now only wearing his white long-sleeved polo and he's a few steps behind her looking anywhere but her side, "Uhh, thank you," she mutters and diverts her gaze on the road she's on.

She bits her lower lip as she holds on tight to the coat that is on her. She kind of wants to laugh at the thought that everything feels like a typical scene in a k-drama that she has been watching but she is too flustered to do so. Especially getting this kind of treatment to her lowkey crush! 

Bright lights from the main cafeteria now touch their eyes as they walk towards the big glass doors and opens them. There are a few college students that are probably on their break from their night classes although most of them are studying still, "You can find our spot and I'll order for the both of us, my treat—Don't you even stop me with that. I'll be back, m'kay?" he said as he didn't even wait for Jieun to respond to him. He flashes his way towards the counter.

Jieun bites both of her lips to suppress her smile, "Unbelievable," she said to herself as she gets this butterflies in the stomach feeling at this time of the moment. Jieun combs her hair to the back of her head as she snaps herself to look for a table for the both of them. She gazes went to the furthest corner of the cafeteria and saw something that made her eyes widen.

It is Seokjin and Jungkook— both of them are looking at her like they have been looking since the very beginning when they get inside the main cafeteria since she sees that annoying and teasing smile that Seokjin is wearing. Her eyes went to Jungkook who is the same as usual—silent. He immediately avoided her gaze and focuses on the board game in front of them. 

She makes her way towards the two guys that she just saw. Kim Seokjin who is now looking at the not-so-in-a-good-mood Jieun raises both of his hands as she is heading towards them, "We're just chilling here. Me and Jungkookie won't disturb the both of you. I swear I will bet my handsome face on it," he said but the problem is the way he talks sounds like he is still teasing and find everything very amusing. 

Jieun's brows furrow, "What do you mean disturbing? Don't you even start with that absurdity Kim Seokjin-ssi. We're just here to eat after a tiring day, can't you not put malice into everything?" she said as she glares at Seokjin who is still trying to tease her but pouting his lips instead.

"Why are you still here on the campus, Jeon Jungkook? Are your family aware of this Jungkook-ah?" she asks trying not to raise her voice since it is Jungkook, he will get shy.

Jieun notices that the seven guys have been close friends since that detention incident especially Seokjin and Jungkook, she notices that her sunbaenim grew fond of her nephew. Seokjin ended up treating all of them 3 lunches. Jieun was supposed to be involved in the treating lunch agenda but she refused since she couldn't guarantee that she will be free all the time to claim that. 

Jungkook didn't give her a glance and just nodded, "I'm gonna take care of your nephew Jieun-ssi! Don't you worry, just continue your uhh... Little friendly dinner date," instead Seokjin was the one answering her that made Jieun looks his way which turns into a glare. 

Seokjin didn't do anything but the way he just looks at her feels like teasing since she knew how far his playfulness can get, "Not a date! We're just eating dinner, tsk. You better be Kim Seokjin-ssi, you know what I'm capable of if you will make him do something reckless right?" she says as she places both of her palms on top of their table to face Seokjin better which is leaning his back right now.

"I'm fine even without hyung looking at me," Jieun is taken aback when Jungkook answers her instead of her sunbaenim. Jungkook is already looking sternly at her but his voice was calm, "Just do what you should be doing. I'm not a kid," he dismissed as he stands up and went his way towards the exit of the cafeteria.

She hears a chuckle but she was too shocked to look at where it came from, "You shouldn't baby your nephew Lee Jieun-ssi. He's not what you think he is. He's a grown teenage boy now and he has his own thoughts. Don't worry, I'm guiding him like a big brother. Enjoy your dinner," Seokjin said as he carries his bag and follows Jungkook towards the exit of the cafeteria.

Lee Jieun wasn't always fond of changes. She didn't want her emotions to rule her too. Life isn't always as easy and people would always walk out of her life so easily too. It was that moment when she felt like nothing is turning out the things she wanted and the tear that fell from her eyes was a sign that something that happened so easily could be so hard for her young heart to take in.

Chapter Text

Jieun wakes up at the sound of alarm as she turns it off immediately and heads outside their house since it is where their shower is located to get ready. It is still 4:56 AM in the morning and Jieun is already cooking their dinner. She didn't want to wake her family, it has kind of been her new hobby to wake up so early so that she could escape the suffocating atmosphere in their house but at the same time, she's worried that with all the possible arguments that may happen between her parents, they may forget to eat breakfast.

Their house is just small, compared to the public bathroom for ladies in their building—their house is a little bit smaller. She always wonders how big the space would be if the bathroom and their house would be switched. 

She prepares a meal for three—Her mom, dad, and sister. She went to their room again which is just beside their kitchen and dining table and saw her mom and dad sleep. Her gaze went to her baby sister Soeun and her throat hurts like there is a lump inside. She's so felt so guilty and sorry for being too selfish—leaving so early just to escape knowing her baby sister is still here. Although she always made sure that they won't argue in front of the kid, she begs her trusted aunt on her mom's side of the family to get Soeun to play with her kids as much as possible.

Jieun went near her sister's side and kisses her forehead lightly. Tears falling down from her eyes every time she looks at her family. Bruises are still visible on her mother's forehead, she remembers the time when she first got those. Her mom shouted for help in front of her saying, "Look at your dad! He hits my head. He knew it is lethal but he did it anyway! He's trying to kill me, Jieun-ah." It was horrifying. It was traumatizing enough for a little girl like her. 

Her parents were like that ever since she was 4 years old, her little sister wasn't born yet. Her father was the one who cheated that time but still, her mom is the one who's suffering. Sounds of things breaking and shouts were filling the house. Jieun one time cries in front of her mom begging her to hide every time her Dad comes home because she couldn't bear to see her mom cries. Those memories still haunt her despite some point in her memories they were like those happy families. At one point she despises her dad, despite at a young age, she sees her dad as a monster to her mom but she couldn't get to hate her Dad forever. One time her parents were both separated because of the massive fights, she looked forward every time her Dad visits her.

She prays that this argument would stop, but she knew from experience before that the feelings of betrayal from cheating would be hard to swallow. She prays and cries for it to stop every night, it always haunts her if one day one of her parents will totally leave. Despite her hating her father at the moment, she still remembers what he said one night, "Both of you and Soeun are the reasons why I am living now, Jieun-ah! I could not allow that this woman would take both of you away from me. I will die before this woman and her other man will do that." She's stuck and she knows how toxic her parents are towards each other but what could she do? What could a 15 -year-old do?

Wearing her ID is the last task she needs to do, she went for their doorknob and slowly opens it as she exits their house. She plugs in her earphones and it plays Sasha Sloan's Older. This has been playing on the loop every time her parents start to fight again. She always remembers this particular line in the song— my parents aren't heroes they're just like me. As she tries to understand the situation and tries so hard not to let her emotions rule over her that may cause more damage to her mother or father.

Jieun is tired but life goes on anyway. She can't stop and cry just because her family is taking a toll on her mental health. She can't stop walking when the time itself is running. She shouldn't stop, she should stay walking when her parents are not. 

The morning breeze is her favorite, the same as the night breeze. It may sound strange but there is something about the wind that comforts her like it is hugging her. There's something about nature that heals her, it's like telling her that she's alive—that she can still feel the earth living for her. 

When the big gates of her campus greet her, she diverts her attention to the security guard who is now taking a sip from his coffee when he also notices Jieun walking towards the gate while waving her hands at him. The guard smiles at her back, "As usual, the best student of La Coste University. Good morning, Lee Jieun-ssi," he greets her while raising his cup of coffee as if he's suggesting her to drink coffee since it is so cold early in the morning.

She smiles at his remark and bows 90 degrees at the guard, "Good morning Mr. Wu! Don't compliment me too much, my shoulders might fly away," she says as she steps her feet inside the campus while talking and laughing with their security guard, "Anyway, fighting for today Mr. Wu, you're taking care of your health, right? We need you to be healthy, ya know?" she says as she points her L sign using her right thumb and pointer fingers.

Mr. Wu does the same hand sign and kind of flickers it then gives her a smile, "Of course! It is my duty to keep everyone safe. That is why I advise you to not overdo yourself, don't be pressured about being part of the student council okay? Enjoy life! You have a long way ahead. Every kid like you there's a bright future awaits Jieun-ssi."

As the soft sounds from a few students who are as early as her as she's roaming around the campus, she decided to walk towards the soccer field since she wants to sit on one of the benches and at the same time being outside feeling the fresh air. The field's view became more and more visible as the steps that she needed to take towards the field is getting smaller. She sees a familiar figure that she hasn't seen for the past weeks.

He was already seated at the top right corner of the bench as he leans towards the railings. Jieun takes a good look at Jeon Jungkook and she notices that he is looking at his cellphone while biting his lower lip, which means something is bothering him. His uniform coat is completely unbuttoned while his polo's first three buttons are too. Jieun notices his changes, she thought it's because of the six guys that he's been hanging out with lately.  She thought it was for the better since Jungkook is not as shy as he used to be and he's finding a new style for himself, that's enough for Jieun to be at ease.

She took some steps while walking up closer to Jungkook's way. Since the benches are made of metal, her steps made a lot of sounds that Jungkook immediately notices. His doe eyes are looking at her again, one thing that Jieun notices that never changed from him. From leaning on the railings, he is shocked enough to lean forward as a reaction but then he leans again and didn't break eye contact with her.

"That's strange. You're alone again for the second time since your first day. Where are your friends? They aren't this early?" she asks as she sat on his left side which the way that he faces since he is leaning his back towards the railings. 

He shakes his head, she guesses that it was the answer to the last question, "Are you okay? I didn't expect you to be an early bird too," she softly chuckles as he gazes at her in split seconds but returns to looking down and bit his lower lip again, like he is digging the skin of his lips, "You do not want to talk huh? Well, me too. I've been through... something. I'm not a fan of opening-up too," she smiles at him as he tries to look at her too. 

Jieun notices the guitar beside him that is laying on the ground, "Oh! Your guitar! Woah, it's been years since I saw this. Are you still learning? Can I?" she continuously asks as he looks at the guitar she's pointing and nods at her requests to play. Jieun immediately gets the guitar and checks it out, "Do you still remember what I thought you? You should play for me sometimes. I miss jamming with you," she softly says as she starts to strum the guitar.

He looks at her, it was a familiar sight for Jeon Jungkook. He remembers how she and him bond through music, she has always been the one who has so much passion for music. He wanted to have great harmony with her, he wanted to play the guitar for her as she sings. It was those days for Jeon Jungkook. 

"When your quiet eyes fall upon me. Will I be able to smile so brightly like I used to?" she starts to sing the song that is also familiar to Jungkook. It was the song that she composed when she couldn't sleep. He remembers how he couldn't understand why she's always up at night and tries to be awake with her as much as he can. They were kids back then, Jungkook was 10 years old and Jieun was 12, "I think I'm tired, I've held on long enough. I wish there was a shortcut to get back to you." 

This was one of their secrets that both of them only knew before. He's looking at her confidently as she is focused on the guitar. It was one of those nights again. Her voice, her eyes... It is all the same and just like before they were kids, he still doesn't know how to be the one that would wipe those feelings away. She's in a painful situation and he couldn't even reach her. He couldn't even say a word. 

"If I lie down on your knee, brush my hair like when I was young," she sings the chorus and he notices how her voice shaken. He clenches his fists, not because of what she did but because of what he's doing. He's doing nothing, just like before. He's doing it again now. He just couldn't understand and he doesn't know what to do. He knew something is wrong but what would he do to ease that pain? "If I fall asleep lightly from your nice touch. Just let me stay for a moment. Don't wake me up, I'm going to sleep tight." 

Jungkook unclenches his fist as he slowly raises it, like he is trying, trying to reach her. If she could ask her how's her day, is she okay, did she eat, are you still struggling to sleep, can he do something to help—Does she need a hug? 

His arm pauses in the air trying to reach her as he saw a tear escaping from her eyes. The wind blows her hair as it somehow covers half of her face, it was her chance to wipe it off pretending to fix her hair. He pulls back his arm the same time a tear from his eyes fell on the ground, she strums the final chords of the song while he quickly wipe those away.

Chapter Text

"Noona!"

Jimin and Taehyung both shouted Jieun's name as they spotted her bagging all of the awards as she is congratulated by many people around her. She turns around and saw Jimin and Taehyung with a big smile on their faces, "Oh, it's the dumplings!" she said smiling in delight as she sees how their smiling faces switched instantly as they pout in unison.

"Noona, I told you not to call us that!" Taehyung exclaims as he is glaring at Jieun who finds him cute either way, the baby that he is.

Her gaze went to Jimin who is now smiling at her, "We will let it go this time noona! Since you almost received all of the awards that have been mentioned earlier to the point that we almost got sick of hearing your name! Congratulations!" he said being the sassy as he can be. Jieun laughs alongside Jimin and she hugs him as a reply.

Jieun looks at Taehyung who immediately glares playfully as she laughs at the baby in front of him, "Aigoo! Don't you dare or I'll eat your bread cheeks," she threatens him and then he immediately covers both of his cheeks using both of his hands which made Jieun laugh in glee and hugs him.

"Where are the others? Did they get an award?" Jieun asks both of the boys as they start to roam their eyes on the crowd.

Taehyung looks at her, "Namjoon hyung and Hobi hyung went in the Bangtan Space to clean up. While Seokjin hyung and Jungkookie were buying something outside the campus then Yoongi hyung..." he faces the crowd behind him looking at someone that happens to be Yoongi who's bored waiting for the two dumplings to finish greeting his archenemy. 

She laughs at how Yoongi really seems to disassociate himself with her while remembering how they were fighting since 7th grade. Now that Yoongi seems to be close with Jungkook, Seokjin, Namjoon, Hobi, Taehyung, and Jimin, he seems to be not like before who despises school that much. She thinks that despite how diverse their personalities are, they still manage to put up with each other and even appreciate each other's perspectives.

"Now that I think of it, I saw you guys have been practicing in your space. I heard there's a music festival this summer. You guys should join, Jungkook is still new here maybe he'll love it. Like getting to know other people in La Coste," she says as she sees how Taehyung feels excited just by looking at his eyes. He immediately went to Jimin and he's just the same as him.

"Jimin-ah! This is what we're waiting for!" 

"Hyung!"

The three of them immediately face the approaching voice which Jungkook owns while Seokjin is beside Yoongi trying to get him to walk closer to them.

Jimin is already jumping as he is waving at their hyungs, "Jieun noona has told us a piece of good news!" he said as her eyes wander towards the guys that are approaching and her gaze went to Jungkook who is now looking at her. 

She still could not believe that in just a few months this boy would change. Jieun could not count how many times he got himself into trouble on his own. He became more extroverted and more stubborn than he usually is on his first day, he's even working out! For a kid like him who just attended his 7th grade, he already gains muscles than a normal teenager would have. He has been stubborn since he was a kid, and kind of selfish too. He's also playful and he usually likes to explore, he was always curious. She thought, it was better that he is now being open and expressing himself more often. 

Her flashing memories about their childhood stopped when she realized that they are already in front of them except for Namjoon and Hobi, "There's a music festival this summer! We should join! This is what we're practicing for guys," Jimin says in ecstasy. 

All of their excitement towards the festival is so evident in their facial expression even Yoongi who is not of expressing. Jieun smiles at the sight, "There's also prizes, it doesn't hurt to try," she commented. 

They immediately discuss everything about entering and their practice schedules during summer. 

"Vice President!" 

Jieun turns her body from where the call came from, she sees Kim Myungsoo walking towards her and also notices the awards that he has bagged. Compared to her, he has received 3 bouquets of flowers and she could guess that they were from his fangirls whom she couldn't blame since he is so cool with all of those medals hanging on his neck.

"President," she says and slightly bows at him as a sign of respect for his sunbaenim and the President of the Student Council. 

His smile went to his eyes, "I guess I should start to call you President from now on. We both knew no one deserves it but you," he says and he's always successful at making her stomach bear butterflies every time. 

"It's too early to conclude Mister President. Congratulations, by the way," she extends her harm expecting a handshake from the both of them and Myungsoo gladly accepts it as he congratulates her back. 

"Jungkook are you listening?" the boy immediately diverted his attention from Jieun and Myungsoo as he hears Yoongi and notices that everyone is staring at him, "I said that you'd be the main vocal. Start memorizing the lyrics from now, for goodness' sake," he jokingly said as all of them except him laugh.

The sight of Jieun and Myungsoo is still very visible as he sees they are exerting a heartily laugh, "He's probably just thinking about Lisa again," his attention went to Jimin who is now teasing him again with their classmate Lisa. Taehyung joins the fun too. 

Their hyungs were all ears from knowing who is the girl they're talking about, "She's the pretty girl from our class that seems to like Jungkookie. She's been very vocal about her feelings and even dedicated a dance for him in front of the whole class," and they started to tease him.

Jungkook who is nowhere thinking about how Lisa confessed her feelings, still trying to get a good sight of how Myungsoo pats Jieun's head for about 3 minutes now, "She's just... being nice," mindlessly he says and uncertain if it was about Lisa or the girl that has his eyes fixed the moment that he saw her.

Since that is the only thing he could do.

He could hear their loud roar as they keep on teasing him to Lisa, they even try to find her for them to take a picture of Jungkook and her. He sees how Myungsoo tries to bring her somewhere as his eyes focus on how the guy holds her left arm since the other is holding her bouquets. 

"Oh, it seems like the Vice President will perform something today!" 

Everyone is all eyes on the emcee when they heard Jieun's title as they also notice how their Vice President seems to be a little embarrassed while Myungsoo is trying to encourage her and still holding her arm.

"Are they together?" he hears Hobi who just arrived a few minutes earlier. 

Jungkook's eyes gaze at Jimin and Taehyung who are clapping their hands in glee and even jumping as they cheer on Jieun as she is taking her steps towards the stage, "I wouldn't be surprised, no one would. They are the power duo on the campus. Everyone has already tasted Jieun's wrath except for Myungsoo. Given that he is one position above her—or it could be something more." 

Seokjin's words were ringing inside Jungkook's head and everyone in his circle cheering on the thought that Jieun might be with the President doesn't help. 

Jieun was handed a guitar as she requested to accompany her performance. Everything was nerve-wracking for her, she only performs in every audition on joining the music club but other than that is none. Counting at the thought that most of the students here might have a hidden grudge at her.

Looking at the guy who is the main reason why she's on the stage immediately made her roll her eyes playfully. He's still waving his hands up to the sky just for her to fully see his support that is very much appreciated by Jieun. He's different from the guys that she hates, he's different from his father.

She also spots her two best friends with each of their families. Their jaws almost reach the ground as they expected Jieun would be shy to perform in this big of a crowd. After being a shock for a brief minute, they immediately shout with all of their might just to support their best friend. She smiles in return, as she went her attention to her guitar and starts to strum a chord. 

"Don't you know that I want to be more than just your friend?" she starts to sing as the crowd went wild while looking at Myungsoo and her. Heck, she knew she was obvious as hell, "Holding hands is fine but I've got better things on my mind," her gaze went to the man she dedicates this for.

Those lyrics, it doesn't fit well with their situation. Myungsoo hasn't made a move on her or anything since both of them are focused on studying. Although who is she kidding if she'd say that she think of her sunbaenim only as his friend? She knew to herself that she's the ideal guy that her young heart dreams of. 

She sees Myungsoo flusters that made her smile even more as she continues the song, "You know it can happen if you'll only see me in a different light," everyone was still whispering, saying that they have always known, that they are obvious. Some were even cheering for them and calls them the powerful duo.

Jieun closes her eyes and at the same time, somewhere in the crowd, has their hearts broken. He had been very vocal before, he had been very expressive of how much he only wanted Jieun for himself. Now that they have grown, everything seems to be difficult and at the same time, his feelings start to get confusing more and more. 

Within the months on the same campus as her, and seeing her everywhere with the same guy. From the moment that he saw the smiles that she has given him, he knew that he'd get himself in trouble just to watch every moment that they could possibly share. He saw everything, and he didn't do anything which he always does. 

Jungkook shrugs his thoughts away as he turns his back away from the sight of the stage, "Hyung, I'll just be in the Space first. I will start.. memorizing," he said without even thinking hard about what he is saying. 

Some of his hyungs agree to go with him to start practicing except for Jimin and Taehyung who seem to be cheering for their noona much longer.  

"Penny for your thoughts?" 

Jungkook gazes at his Yoongi hyung who is beside him without giving him a glance. He slightly leans back his head, taking a glimpse of the sky, "I just got distracted which I shouldn't be doing. We have a festival to attend to."

Beside him, Yoongi looks at the kid and slightly behind them which is Jieun who has just done performing as the crowd gave her a round of applause especially the guy who he noticed that has been close to Jieun. Then his gaze went back to Jungkook who is now tightening his jaw like he just hears everything.

"Distracted, huh." 

Chapter Text

"Have you got the information that your Aunt wants?"

Jieun tightens the hold of her glass of water when her Dad asks her the question that she has been avoiding, "I was busy with the student council Dad. Jungkook was just mostly around with his friends, that's it," she said as she puts the glass on the table. 

Her mom who is now in the process of reconciling with her dad stays silent. It has been 8 months since their last fight. Although her dad still checks on her mom 24/7 having trust issues after what has happened. Her father mentioned before something that irritates the hell out of Jieun, it was about him comparing why their mom cheating was a bigger deal than when he does it. He explained how women are more affectionate and follow their emotions recklessly than men.

Jieun almost blurted out the words, "If women are more likely to follow their emotions I would have killed you by now." But it ended up how she was covered up with guilt by her thoughts.

"We need to gather more information about Jeon Jungkook or else your mom will lose her job. You already had 10 months to do so, what's so hard about getting close with your nephew Lee Jieun?" his Dad sternly asked.

She wants to talk back, she wants to ask why should she be the one who has to do the dirty work, if her father hadn't resigned from his work... if her mother didn't cheat on her dad... she shrugs off the thoughts that she wanted to say but she knew it will never result in any good but pain towards her mother who is guilty enough already. 

A lump on her throat was there for her to endure but tries so hard to produce a response for her parents, "I'll try to gather some, I know where they are right now. Don't worry," she said and at the same time she heard her mom's sigh. 

"Good. Do it as much as possible. This is for all of us, you know that right?" she nods at the question that her parent asked. 

After getting ready, she immediately heads off to her summer job at a local 7/11 store. She needs to save for college, she needs to save up some money for emergency purposes too. When she stepped foot in the store, she sees Eun Woo organizing in between the shelves. She recognizes him immediately aside from she's part of the student council, which doesn't count since Eun Woo is one of the few students who have no offenses, La Coste is a small community that you will instantly familiarize every people that has resides in the area.

"Good morning! Uhh, I'm sorry for being late," she greeted as Eun Woo didn't even look in her direction and just gave her a nod, she knew to herself that she is not late but still sorry for Eun Woo doing everything earlier, "What tasks are left unfinished yet? I'll do it," she asks despite the awkward and cold treatment.

Eun Woo finally glances at her and over her shoulder which is the counter, "Arrange the items near the counter," his only response and went back to organizing.

She applies for this job since the slot for the morning shifts is available. She just needs to try finding a night shift job to fill her schedule—it's the best option to have extra income than relying on one.

Jieun was startled by the sudden chiming of the hanging doorbell that she immediately stand up straight from arranging the items below the counter. She saw a shocked Jungkook who seems to be the one responsible for the sound. He was standing near the door looking at Jieun, more like staring at her—checking if she's real or not.

"I told you to wait for us, you brat!"

Her gaze went to the person behind Jungkook who happens to be Seokjin and the same as the first customer, he also gave her a shocked expression as he checks out her uniform and immediately understood why she's in front of them, "Why are you both just standing— Noona!" Jieun bit her lower lip when she hears Taehyung's voice.

His footsteps went closer as Jieun tilts up her head to greet the guy who is already in front of her with his smiling face, making his bread cheeks visible. She returns the smile she gave him as Taehyung asks for a hug that she gladly accepts. Her attention went over Taehyung's shoulder which is everyone in their circle who is very much amused with the situation except for Yoongi. 

"Noona?!"

They broke their hug as Jimin, who seems to be the last one to arrive, suddenly calls her attention, "Wah! You work here? I didn't notice you before!" she smiles at him as he went jumping towards her for a hug.

"It's called a summer job, pabo!" she hears Yoongi's response to Jimin that made him immediately glares at him after breaking the hug.

Jieun sees everyone recovers from their shock and just watching the two dumplings hovering towards her, "Yeah, I applied for a summer job," she said and her gaze went to Eun Woo who is also looking at the customers. He seems unbothered, it seems like the customers are just making a scene, "I can't really talk right now. I just arrive, I have to help Eun Woo-ssi," she says as all of them look Eun Woo's way too.

"Oh! Cha Eun Woo," mutters Yoongi as Eun Woo also nods as a greeting since they are in the same batch with Jieun.

The kids who are younger than Seokjin, Yoongi, and Jieun bow at the sight of Eun Woo as they just found out that he's their sunbaenim which Eun Woo also bows at Seokjin since he noticed that he's the only one who didn't bow at him. 

It was an awkward encounter.

"We're practicing today, noona! Do you want to come and check us out?" Taehyung asks, ever since he step foot inside the store he never left her side while the others are checking on what to buy.

She looks at him while smiling at the cute hoobae, "I... I'll see. I don't know if I'm busy this afternoon," she says in response to Taehyung who is now pouting at her answer. 

"Okay, noona. You know where to find us, right? It is just near the school!"  he said and as a response, she just pats his head.

Jimin calls out Taehyung from the left side of the store, "Strawberry sandwich?" he asks Taehyung from the other side of the room. 

"Yeah! Also, add cola please!" he asks his best friend but Jimin just made a face looking at tons of food in his arms and small hands. 

"Get it yourself, saeggi!" 

Jieun glares at Jimin who just muttered a curse and he immediately smiles with his eyes as an apology to his noona. Taehyung sticks out his tongue and eventually went to get his cola. 

After everyone finally gets what they want to buy, they immediately formed a line one by one, "Noona, you should see our practice," Namjoon said when it was his turn in the counter. 

She just smiles at him, "I'll try!" 

"Fighting noona!" she pats Jimin's head after scanning the food he purchased for him and Taehyung then they exchange cash for his payment. 

The last one is Jeon Jungkook who bought a lot of food, expected from someone who has an enormous appetite, "Woah, this looks like you'll be gone for three days. Eat well, Jungkook-ah," she said to the guy who's biting his lower lip while taking out cash from his wallet. 

One by one, Jieun scans everything Jungkook purchases and puts it inside a paper bag. When she's done, he puts two Kitkat Mint Choco flavored on the counter, "You want me to add these?" she asks the obvious question which Jungkook nods in response.

Jieun gave him the paper bag contains his first purchase and scans the two Kitkat Choco Bars. She's already salivating at the chocolates in front of her, especially when it is mint chocolate flavored, "It costs 245 pesos," she said as Jungkook who came prepared gives her the exact amount.

"You guys be safe okay? Don't practice too late at night. It's not safe," she tells Jungkook who is now looking at her.

She always finds the guy intimidating ever since he starts to express himself more, changed his style, and involves himself in different kinds of activities. He made tons of friends because of it and she even sees him talking to girls comfortably unlike when he is with her—giving her a cold treatment every time they cross paths.

"What time does your shift ends?"

Jieun's eyes widen, not even hiding her shock when he finally talks to her aside from saying basic yes or no interactions, "Uhh... 1 PM? I— I think it depends on the situation," she answers nonchalantly but she's already bursting with shock and confusion inside.

Jungkook puts his wallet inside his bag and his attention went to the two mint choco bars placed on the counter, "I'll... Pick you up. Our practice break ends happens to be the same time as you," he said while looking at the chocolates and glances at her for about a second then back to the chocolates.

She was confused and she's trying to read him, it was a long silence enveloped between them as he is also trying to avoid eye contact with her when one of his friends calls his name. 

"It's yours."

Before even Jieun could speak a word, he immediately storms outside the store. She looks at the two mint choco bars in front of her, "But... These are also his favorite," she whispers faintly and slowly shakes her head at what just happened.

She caught Eun Woo looking at where Jungkook headed and where the door is located and then glances at her which she noticed, "Your cousin, right?" he asks, which surprises her since Eun Woo is not the type to mind people's business.

Jieun shakes her head, "Nephew. His mom's my cousin," she said as she bites her cheek from the inside after answering her co-worker's question. 

She didn't get why she's nervous all of a sudden. Jungkook was weird, and she feels like Eun Woo felt it too since the three of them are the only ones inside the store. 

But to her relief, Eun Woo just shrugs and continues on his work. Instinctively, she sighs like she has been holding her breath for too long as her and her nephew's conversation is still processing in her head. 

"So he's picking me up? For what?" she thought and was left unanswered until 1 PM.

Chapter Text

"Are you sure you don't need my help?"

Jieun has been repeating the same question for Eun Woo ever since Jungkook has already arrived at 12:23 PM which is way too early than what she had told him. Jieun remembers very clearly that her shift would end at 1 PM or later than that.

Eun Woo once again stops at what he is doing and faces Jieun like he has been annoyed for answering the same question she has been shooting him, "Yes! You are very much free to go Lee Jieun-ssi. Do you want me to make you a contract with my full name and signature to prove that I am sure with my words?" he said nonchalantly.

She is quite shocked and at the same time amused since it was the longest answer that she had received from him, "Uhh... Okay. Thank you, I guess. Just call me if there's any problem. Wait, I'll give you my number!" 

She went for her bag below the counter and starts to pick up her phone. She went for the contact lists and searched for her name. When she found it, she stands up to hand it to Eun Woo—which to her surprise, he's looking outside like there is something that he finds amusing. 

Eun Woo notices Jieun a minute later and she immediately hands her phone to him that he accepts and types her phone number in his cellphone. She notices his amused face which is still very evident in his smirk even after he is done with her phone. 

"Uh, goodbye. I'm truly grateful for letting me end my shift early. I'll make sure to inform my nephew or anyone next time," she said and bows at him, showing him a sincere apology and at the same time, felt bad about leaving him alone.

The guy nods his head— accepting her apology. Jieun picks up her tote bag from the ground and smiles at Eun Woo as a farewell as the guy just nods in return.

Jieun turns around and sees Jungkook from the glass wall of the store as he is already looking at her but immediately looks at his phone. She thought about how fast Jungkook grew, he was so innocent looking on the first day of school but now, with all the piercing and muscles, it was a huge change already. It hasn't been a year since then but he made it possible.

"Jieun-ssi," Jieun almost jumps at Eun Woo's last call as she was about to touch the doorknob. She immediately shakes her thought about Jungkook and faces Eun Woo who's still at the counter, "For a nephew, yours is too... hovering," he said and now, he's giving her a confused look. 

She didn't know what to respond but just bows at him for the last time as her farewell and faces the door to open. Jungkook who's kind of intently staring at something inside the store bothers Jieun that she waves her hands in front of him to finally notice that she's in front of him.

"Are you okay? Where are we going by the way? I didn't have the chance to ask you that earlier," she said.

Jungkook just stares at her for a minute and back to the store where he just stared at then finally his attention is on hers again. His Bambi eyes are still there, as Jieun observes, those were still beautiful but something about this Jungkook in front of her shivers her out.

She sees him gulp before answering as he couldn't look directly on her eyes that his were glancing his lips and down to the ground while blinking it now and then, "There's... There's uhh—Harry Potter-themed coffee shop nearby," he said pointing at the direction from their position.

Jieun tries her hardest not to show her delight at what he just said. Of course, she knows the area at the back of her hands. She has always been admiring the store from afar but Jieun is the type that doesn't waste her money on something that is not needed.

His hands went on the back of his nape as he is trying to fix his gaze towards her, "You still love coffee right? And... You collected Harry Potter books before," his voice was almost faint. His lisps are showing and his stutter too.

Everything about this Jeon Jungkook in front of her is the same guy that she is fond of years before. She thought he was long gone, but she thought some parts of people would not easily change. Nervous Jungkook would always be her weakness despite finding it cute and all. She still sees the kid that she knew in his eyes and habits despite the piercings, bad-boy hairstyle, muscles, and fashion.

But, a cup of coffee would not hurt, right? She thought.

"Yes, I still love both," she said which made him look at her eyes longer than what he had given her before, he is happy, "Cha~ Let's go? I'm excited! I can't believe that I didn't know that type of coffee shop exists. It must have been newly built, huh?" she 

Jungkook's trying of suppressing his smile is visible in her eyes as his dimples started to show on his side of the face. They take their steps lightly as they enjoy the walk, there aren't many vehicles around the areas and if they happen to found one it would be loaded with passengers. 

"How's your year so far?" Jieun's way to start a conversation since all they hear is the birds' chirps and the trees dancing, "You have been having a wild first year, good for you but for me, all of you are kind of a handful you know?" she jokes as she looks at the guy who's smiling and biting the side of his lips. 

"It's fine and fun," his stutter wasn't there that made Jieun looks at him and notices that he is quite relaxed now. 

He's probably thinking about his friends, she thought.

Her smile widens with his answer, "I'm glad you did. Your friends," she looks at him and he also did as she also notices how he gulps while doing so, "Keep them. They're someone you would want to cherish throughout this lifetime,"  she said. 

Jieun is now looking at the road and then at the skies. Jungkook, however, is still looking at her, amazed by what she just said and probably in awe with the sight again. For him, she seems to say the words that always touch his heart. She just does everything that flutters him in every kind of way and his young heart couldn't understand what is it and how to handle it. 

"Girls like it when you make them feel special. Know what they like and their favorites, win them over with something connected to those. Girls love those little things like remembering their favorites and making an effort," he remembers what Seokjin told Namjoon just this morning about the girl he likes and how to approach them. 

His phone beeps that he immediately checks it. Jungkook saw the pile of notifications from his hyungs:

Seokjin

Where are you kid?! You've been an hour away now!

Seokjin

Are you being a ghost right now?

Jimin

We need to practice that hat trick, come here quickly imma! (hey you)

Hobi

Jeon Jungkook, do you want to be punished? We're waiting!

The guy just ignored all of it and turns it off as he swiftly slides his backpack to his front and puts it on the furthest corner of his bag. 

"That's the coffee shop right?!" she asks as she looks at him with happiness evident in her face, he nods as a response and gave her a smile but it was replaced with a shocked expression when she suddenly holds his wrist then drags him by running towards the shop.

His eyes were glued to their hands, to her hands touching his. He feels electricity, his whole body is on adrenaline as he also felt his face down to his neck heating and he felt like the organs inside his stomach are dancing. He likes it so much that he couldn't stop smiling up to his eyes. 

The sight of her, the gentle smell from her, her luscious brown hair flying, and his soft touch of her hand on his wrist especially her smile that is only for him at the moment— Not Kim Myungsoo, Kim Taehyung, Park Jimin, and other guys that are crushing on Lee Jieun. Her smile was for him and that gives him the ecstasy he couldn't explain.

Jungkook didn't even notice immediately that they are already in front of the 9 3/4, "The name is so cool! We're in a ride for 9 3/4, Jungkook-ah!" she said as she is observing the coffee shop from the outside. It has familiar locations from the movies and the chairs are the same as the dining hall which is made of wood. 

He looks at her face once more and it was so familiar. It is the same expression that he looks at whenever she talks about how magical the book and the movie are and every time she watches it despite it was here nth time.

Until they decided to finally go for a seat, "OMG! There is Harry's birthday cake! Petunia's Pudding and pumpkin pasties?! Ton-Tongue Toffees! A cauldron cake! Oh, shit— Butterbeer!" she mutters every food and drinks on the menu out of fascination and excitement that also made Jungkook chuckle. 

Jieun bit her lower lip when reality hits her—she should not waste too much. Jungkook notices her sudden silence and stares or scanning at the menu like her whole life depends on it.

"Hello wizards! Anything from the menu dears?"

Jungkook sees how Jieun's eyes glisten at the sight of the waitress that is now wearing a Slytherin house uniform then she visibly blinks multiple times like she just snaps out from her daydream, "Uhh... Just butterbeer, please?" he could notice the pain in her voice and how sad it is.

He could not understand why she did not order everything she said although he could not ask her also, "One butterbeer for the wizard right here, how about you?" the waitress is now facing him. He scans the menu, "All of these please," without having second thoughts he said it. 

Jieun is now covering her mouth and sees her eyes widen, "You— You could finish all of that?! It has more than one cake Jeon Jungkook! I knew you have that an abnormal kind of appetite but I didn't expect that it is much more abnormal?!" she was in shock that she could not help but raising her voice a little. 

Jungkook is now scratching his nape, "We'll share, you can take home others too," he said as he could not hide his smiles until he sees her eyes start to water and she starts to pout.

She's crying.

"Why— Did I said something... Wrong?" he asks as her tears coming more and more, "Do you hate me?" his question was almost a whisper and faint. She may hate him for showing off that he is buying everything, he thought since she is not answering.

Her cries stopped, "No, pabo! I'm thankful! I'm very thankful for this! You just made my dream come true. Thank you," she says as she continues to cry but now she's covering both of her eyes with her knuckles. 

Now, he feels like crying too. He is happy that she is happy but at the same time, he hates it whenever she cries. This is different, she's showing a different expression this was his first time seeing it. He's conflicted if he ever wants her to make that kind of happy, it will hurt her eyes.

While Jieun sees Jungkook tearing up while still in shock which made her stop crying and chuckling instead, "I should be the one crying. You're still such a crybaby, aigoo," she says with a chuckle as she places her bag in front of her and pulls out a handkerchief. 

Jieun reaches towards the guy who is now confused and still locking her eyes at her. She touches the side of his jaw while her free hand with the handkerchief touches his cheeks where the tears are.

And there, Jungkook knew that he should get it together and cherish this moment so that he could remember it forever. 

Chapter Text

"I'm so full!"

Jieun leans her back towards the chair as she places both of her hands on her stomach, "You literally bought the whole Harry Potter to me!" she says grinning like a kid again which Jungkook misses the most since she is likely to be strict and grumpy nowadays.

"You're happy?" he feels like he needed to make sure she is. 

She stares at her, shock by his sudden and unexpected question, "Of course I am silly! Can't you still not notice? Are you that insensible?" she says as she makes her smile more obvious and laughs about his innocence and unawareness.

Something in her laugh that is very addictive to Jeon Jungkook. She laughs so hard that people near them look at her thinking and probably frightened that the supposed-to-be Harry Potter-themed shop has turned into a Wizard of Oz theme since they thought they heard the Wicked Witch of the West laughing.

But in front of her wishes that she could laugh like that more often and he added that he wants to watch her like this too. He can't contain his smile as he looks at the girl that made all of his worries away just by mere laughing.

Finally, when Jieun tries to tone down her laugh, she looks at the smiling and shy Jungkook,  "Yah! You should not be like that, okay? What if someone will confess to you and you'll be insensitive? Even though you didn't mean it, you should try to observe people more. Don't be nervous, you're fine just the way you are," she says and she gave him the last Ton-Tongue Toffee that she notices that he likes the most since it is chocolate, "You should not doubt everyone's feelings, 'mmkay?"

She knew how his parents ground him about everything ever since they were kids. They were always strict and conscious at who he be friends with. He was always shy whenever they meet every holiday but they are the only ones who are around the same age that they ended up the ones talking and playing.

The boy nods his head at the girl while his smile including his eyes is still visible on his face that made her smile too, "You know what, tell me the truth! Do you already have a girlfriend? These days, kids are so fast in that area," she says as she switches into a sunbaenim mode.

"No! I— I don't have one," Jungkook answers who is defensive at first but back to his faint voice as his ears down to his neck turn red. Nevertheless, his smile is visible too since the girl in front of her is asking him about his love life.

His smile made Jieun lean forward and places her elbow on the table to support her from investigating the boy in front of her, "So, what about Lisa? The dumplings mention her often especially that girl Rosé who dedicated the song Pretty Boy for you during an intermission," she says as her eyes squint to intimidate him more, "Oh and that Tzuyu! I remember we brought her to detention when she squeals so loud when you accepted her letter, she was cute," Jieun laughs at the memory.

Jungkook immediately shakes his head violently and drinks one shot of the remaining of his butterbeer, "No... None of them are my... Girlfriend," he was trying so hard to cool his heated face as he slowly fans himself using his hands like a fan.

Jieun forms her right hand into an L line using her pointer and thumb then places it under her chin playfully and acting as an investigator, "You know I'm not gonna snitch on you to your family right?" she smiles but at the back of her mind she was like pulled out to reality when she realizes that she is totally giving her family information about him. It is kind of her job— the job that she was forced into.

"I really don't have one!" he insisted and made Jieun divert her attention from her sad reality.

The girl just smiles, "Okay, pretty boy. Let's just say you're telling the truth. What's your ideal type anyway? I could help you find someone. It could totally help you with your social skills," she says.

His face went serious as he is looking at the girl in front and straight-up said, "You."

It totally took Jieun back. Her stomach's organs were going crazy which is very alien to her since most of the time she only feels this wild zoo in her stomach when it comes to her crushes that are mostly finessing their way to please her and they are pretty much an expert on it since they are mostly her sunbaenim or oppa.

Jungkook, on the other hand, notices her reaction which is serious and not the same as smiley Jieun like before. His hands start to exert cold sweat as his body starts to tense. He keeps on imagining the worst scenarios of her rejecting him—of her not seeing her again this close. He's afraid he might lose those smiles again and it terrifies him so bad. 

But he was surprised when he hears a laugh, "Oh my goodness! So it is really true? You're not interacting with the other girls? Jeon Jungkook!" she says looking so amused at him and leaning her back on her seat looking at Jungkook, "I'm not the only girl you should look at! Wow, you're so innocent. Arrasseo! Let's let the destiny find a perfect match for you, you're obviously not ready," she chuckles and sips on her drink. 

Jungkook feels like he should feel relief after her reaction but he wasn't. He was nowhere near relief nor happy. Some part of him wanted to risk it, a part of him wants to tell her that he doesn't like the idea of him being destined with other girls. He hates how she said about him being innocent and being not ready.

He hates it. He feels so defeated.

"Oh, it's 4:00 PM already! I still have to meet someone. He's gonna help me find another summer job, is it okay?" she said looking at her phone and then at him.

Trying to wash away his thoughts, he bit his lower lip to hide his melancholy as he is clenching his fist under the table, "Y-Yeah! Uhh... Who's the guy that is helping you?" he asks, he noticed right away when she mentioned 'he' in her sentence.

Jieun smiles at him as she inserts her cellphone inside the front pocket of her pants, "Myungsoo oppa," she says and takes her last bite of one of the cakes. 

Jungkook tries to get it together, as he could not look at her without making it obvious that he is upset—that he is jealous. Somehow, she reads him so well and after what happened, he could not risk being open with his feelings right now. 

Everything is clear and obvious that it is not him who's in her heart. Who would he be kidding at? He's the one who fell for a relative— for his aunt. He went overboard, he mistook everything that they share for something else. He felt so naive for thinking that they could be possible, or is it just a normal puppy love that would soon wither away? He thought with his broken young heart.

He prays for the latter but burns for the former.

Chapter Text

"Noona!"

Jieun is cleaning the glass wall as soon as she arrived in the store when she hears someone calling her and locks hugs her neck from behind. Her eyes widened as she tilts her head to the left only to see Jimin's cheeks next to hers.

She was about to shout at the kid behind her but, "Ya! Park Jimin!" 

Then she hears Kim Taehyung shouting Jimin's name from somewhere around the area since she couldn't move her head. Both her and Jimin are almost on the same height but unfortunately, he's a few cm taller than her, "Park Jimin, remove your arms, or else I'll hit you with this squeegee, I tell you Park Jimin," she threats him with the window cleaning tool that she's holding. 

Slowly, Jimin lets go of hugging her from the back as he pouts and does a peace sign with his small hands then places it near his right eye. He's trying to be cute in front of her and it is effective since Jieun slowly shows him her smile. Not long when Taehyung lunges at Jimin, locking his neck with his arms.

"You sly prick! You said we'll greet her together!"

Jimin laughs but Taehyung just became more pissed and tightens the lock, it shows how hard Jimin tries to get away from it, "Yah! Kim Taehyung, are you really gonna kill someone right now? Early in the morning?" she says while laughing but at the same time threatens Taehyung that he'll probably kill someone if he doesn't stop. 

"Taehyung-ah, drop Jimin now," Yoongi says as Jieun diverted her attention towards where the voice came from and sees that the whole squad is back again to eat their breakfast inside the 7/11 as usual. 

Yoongi didn't bother to greet her despite making eye contact, she smirks at how he just went straight to the glass door.  Jieun also sees Hobi and Namjoon waving and bows at her when they arrive near the glass door. 

After them, despite Taehyung and Jimin keeps on pestering her about who's the better dancer and singer, she sees Jungkook with Seokjin being the last ones to arrive. They seem to be making Jungkook work since he's the only one who is sweaty and red— Like he just ran thousands of miles before arriving here. Seokjin, on the other hand, is laughing at him while saying something that didn't seem to bother Jungkook because he's looking at her. 

The moment they arrive in front of the entrance of the store she immediately took the chance to ask, "What happened? Are you okay? Why are you looking like this, Jeon Jungkook?" she asks and tries to check if there's any bruises or what. 

Seokjin laughs and waits for Jungkook to answer. 

She's looking at Jungkook who is now nervous to even look at her. He's biting his lower lip again. Jieun can even see how tense he is and tired he is, his veins on his neck are visible, and his arms, "Look at me! You should go back home," she insisted. 

Jungkook looks at her deeply like he's contemplating on how to tell her, "I... I just decided to jog early in the morning," he said and Seokjins laughs so hard with his chosen answer. Jieun maintains her attention to Jungkook who closes his eyes like he's annoyed with the guy beside them.

"You better tell me the truth Jeon Jungkook," she says as she is annoyed as hell. She hates liars and Seokjin who is laughing is not helping her mood at all. 

Jieun grabs his wrist and drags him carefully towards one of the seats outside the store. She looks at the guy who is looking innocently at their hands that she immediately let go of, "Sit here. In your state right now, you should not be inside the store where there are ACs. You will totally get sick. Do you have any extra shirts? Change, now." 

Instead of answering her demand, he automatically turns red. He's already red but it doubled that Jieun didn't seem to notice. He's biting his lips so hard to suppress all of the emotions and scenarios that he is imagining. He's so flustered that he could not even mutter a word. 

"Jeon Jungkook, please talk!" she exclaimed. 

Taehyung notices that Jieun is not already in front of them or near them. He immediately stops hitting Jimin back and tries to find the girl, "Yah! Jieun noona is there," he points at the table where Jieun drags Jungkook. 

Jimin immediately stops hitting Taehyung and looks at the area that he pointed, "Come! Let's go near them," he immediately said as he jumps on one floor to the ground and both ran towards their friends. 

"Jungkookie! You're done with your punishment already?" Jimin genuinely asks in delight as he sees their maknae.

But his delight was short-lived when Jimin sees Jieun in rage after he drops the question for Jungkook, "He's punished? By who? Why is he punished?! Are you doing hazing now?!" she asks hysterically and looks like she is ready to show them her student council side. 

Jimin takes steps backward as he bumps into Taehyung who seems clueless about everything. He faces Taehyung with a scared expression, "The w-witch, she's back! She's damn back! I came for my noona, not her!" he said as his voice fades when he already starts running towards his hyungs who are already inside.

Taehyung who didn't understand his best friend turns his head back to where Jieun and Jungkook are. His eyes widen when Jieun is already standing in front of him when they were a table away just earlier when he was watching Jimin. Jieun immediately grabs him on the shoulder and glares.

"Tell me the truth, Kim Taehyung. You know how I hate liars and especially illegal practices— and for your information young man, hazing is one of those. So tell me... Why did Jungkook get a punishment?" 

All of the hairs in his body just immediately stood up, it's like talking to the devil eye to eye. His angelic features couldn't match the memories that they all have of Jieun being the deadliest member of the student council. Deadliest means everyone will be dead meat if caught in violations of the school rules.

He gulps as hard as he can and blinks so many times, Jieun can even hear his heavy breathing. Taehyung is usually the one who makes her soft and melt because of him being wholly adorable but she needs to know the truth, "He didn't practice yesterday that is why we decided through consensus that he will jog around the area from 4 AM to 7 AM," he was stuttering and then slurring his words.

Jieun instantly drops her hand from holding Taehyung who immediately ran inside the store. She's not dumb and slow to not realize that Jungkook did not practice because they are together inside a coffee shop. She knew that they would practice the whole day and didn't even ask Jungkook since she was expecting that his schedule is free. 

The thought kept on processing through her mind that she couldn't even felt totally relieved that it was not hazing. She never thought about the boys in that kind of way that does hazing either— well, she could exclude Yoongi from the list.

"Hey," a soft voice from behind whispers against her ear. 

Gone with the process of what Taehyung sent, this time her entire being shivers at his voice, "Are you mad at me?" he asks, his voice is hoarse and husky. She felt a soft touch on her fingertips as it slowly reaches for her hand.

She's stuck— she's flabbergasted.   

Her heart and her whole body are reacting wildly like every part of her organs are blasting. He's touching her hands which is definitely normal and everyone does that, she thought. But he's caressing and fondles every fiber of her hands using his thumb.

Jieun catches her breath as she didn't notice that she was holding it back long enough. She pulls her hand away from his and tries to face him, "Just stay here and don't go inside. Fresh air is good for you. I'll call the others to keep you company," she said slurring her own words, and then she immediately turns her back at him.

As she was about to leave, he catches her hand again and there was a burst of emotions flowing through Jieun. She tries to stay calm and thought about how Jungkook seems to be clingy around his hyungs so that's probably why he did this again.

"Please stay."

Chapter Text

Jieun finds herself staring outside the small garage that is located a few blocks away from their school. It is where the boys spent their whole days practicing for the music festival. 

For some reason, Jieun couldn't find herself knocking. It is already afternoon, her shift ended minutes ago and she has no choice but to come here since she already promised the boys earlier to watch them practice. 

But the memory with Jungkook still lingers in her brain like it is haunting her. She couldn't pinpoint why it bothers her too much, too much that it is getting her shivers in her own thought. 

"Please stay."

The way Jungkook said it sends Jieun the most unexplainable feelings and she knew it will never be good. With just two words coming out from his mouth gives her stomach the whole zoo. 

He's still holding her hand and the way he's holding it— it is different, not normal kind of different. Not right kind of different. He's caressing her pointer finger with his thumb, he's holding it like—like they are a couple.

She shoves the thought immediately like she's slapping her face that it is Jungkook she is talking about! Her own nephew, the kid that she treats like a younger brother. 

Jieun was about to face him but, "Hey! What are you two still doing there?!" she immediately pulls out her hand and looks at Seokjin who is furrowing his brows while munching his hamburger. She walks towards where Seokjin is and says, "You keep him company outside. It's bad for someone who's sweating to be exposed to cold air and make him change to a new shirt, okay?" she said and tries her hardest to walk normally towards the door. 

"Call me oppa, Lee Jieun-ssi! And why would an air conditioner be bad for someone sweating? It's not the temperature that makes people sick!" he says as a matter of fact but she just shrugs it off and closes the door on him, "What a weird and feisty little girl," Seokjin mutters as he looks at Jungkook who looks like he's rejected. 

"Yah! What's up with you too?" he asks his maknae but he didn't even look at Seokjin and just grabs a shirt from his bag and went to the comfort room to follow Jieun's advice. 

While walking, a few minutes later he starts to ruffle his hair and mutter some curses on the way that shocks Seokjin with his 

"Weird humans," Seokjin mutters.

Jieun finally took the courage and knock on the door twice but still, no one answered the door. She tries to touch her left side of her ear to the door and she was right when she hears a loud noise coming from the inside. 

They are still practicing, "Good thing I brought a few snacks," she mutters to herself looking at the plastic bag on her right hand. Although she's doubtful if this is enough for everyone. She imagines how big their appetites are.

She looks at the door again and the only thing that she could do right now is to bang on the door loud enough so that they can hear. Jieun forms her left hand into a fist and starts to hit her side of her fist at the door as hard as she can— thrice.

"Yah imma who doesn't have patience— Noona, you're here!" Jimin greeted.

Jieun squints her eyes and smiles at Jimin who felt bad at his choice of first words, "That took a while Park Jimin," Jieun says and took a step forward to get a better view of the whole garage.

It was smaller than what she expected since all of the instruments and the props are all over the place. She sees everyone is already looking at her, "Noona, come in!" Taehyung greeted but everyone seems flustered. 

Jungkook immediately stood up and went into a door on the nearest corner. She was puzzled by his sudden exit but she's also weirded out by the other guys who are now dumbfounded except for Taehyung and Jimin. 

"Uhh, am I disturbing something? I can come back later if you like," she says while still standing up waiting for their response. 

They immediately shake their head in unison, "No, noona! It's okay. Ah, sorry our room is a mess and we're in this situation," Namjoon seems to slur his words often while explaining. 

Jieun tries to process their excuse and how they are using their hands to fan themselves while Hobi pulls out a perfume from his bag and sprays it everywhere. 

On the other hand, Jungkook came out from the door he went in earlier with a pile of towels. He throws it aggressively to each and every one of his hyungs which startled them. While Jungkook looks like he washed his face since it is not sweaty anymore. 

Everyone tries to fix themselves and that's when Jieun finally understood everything, "Oh no, it's okay. I don't really mind, you can continue practicing,"  she said awkwardly since everyone is starting to clean up.

"It's really fine! Come on, I'm excited to watch you guys perform."

Taehyung sits beside her, he's the only one who's not cleaning up, "Noona! Watch me okay? I'm the ace in this group, you know! Everyone should really try to keep up—" he could not finish his sentence when Jimin threw the towel that he is using straight to his face. 

He immediately stands up with the towel that is thrown at him which is already on his hands as he is ready to get his revenge. Jimin ran laughing around the garage, disturbing and destroying the things that the other boys cleaned. 

"Hyung! Stop and help us would you?!"

Everyone looks at Jungkook with their eyes widen. Jimin steps up and glares at him while Taehyung is covering his mouth in shock, "Ya! Jeon Jungkook, are you really getting angry right now? And lecturing about cleaning? Seriously?!" Jimin tries to piss Jungkook off more as he hardens his grip on the broom that even his hand starts to turn white. 

Namjoon steps in the middle of both Jimin and Jungkook, "Stop fighting! Jeon Jungkook, you should not speak towards your hyungs like that. Park Jimin and Kim Taehyung. your maknae is also right. Stop playing and everyone should clean! Please be mindful about our guest," he said with an authoritative voice. 

Everyone in the room except the four who are involved is shocked by Jungkook's sudden outburst. It was the first time that he talks back to his hyungs and even gave them a lecture about cleaning. 

Seokjin is giving his boy a proud dad grin, Yoongi is even widening his cute eyes with his right hand covering his mouth and Hobi tries to suppress his laugh. Jieun, on the other hand, is amused by what she just witnessed. The Jungkook that she knew never gave her that kind of tone or glare, it was a rare sight and she could not deny that it fascinates her.

When everyone is finally done with their cleaning, they immediately went near Jieun to sit. She hands them the snacks that she bought, "I brought a few snacks for you to eat. I thought that you guys have been forgetting to eat," she said and their eyes glisten at the sight of the snacks that she bought from the shop she works at. 

"I don't know your favorite snacks nor have enough money to buy you guys enough snacks, I'm sorry," she says with a shy smile.

From eyes glistening went to a frown when Jieun said the last sentence as all of them disagrees with what she just said that totally blown her by their opposition, "Lee Jieun-ssi, don't say that! You're totally my savior here! I've been hungry for hours now that I want to punch everyone in the face," as he's the first one to grab the plastic full of snacks.

Everyone laughs at Seokjin's statement, "Noona, don't say that. We're hungry since morning, we could not eat when the music festival is weeks away from now. We're very grateful, we will totally eat everything," Namjoon added and everyone agrees and thank her.

Jieun's face is basically red as a tomato especially when Hobi said, "Noona, your boyfriend is really lucky to have you. You're so thoughtful and pretty, wah! Noona jjang!" he said with both of his hands made a thumbs up to her as he's showing Jieun his hearty smile.

"Add smart and talented in that list too!" Jimin exclaimed as Yoongi tries to choke on his food because of the compliments that his archenemy receives that he totally opposes on to.

Taehyung suddenly stands up in the middle of munching his food, "Noona! Do you really have a boyfriend?! Is that the four-eyed know-it-all Kim Myungsoo sunbaenim?" he asks her as everyone laughs at his name for Myungsoo even Jieun is touching her stomach because of it. 

"I will really tell Myungsoo about what you said Taehyungie," Seokjin said in the middle of his laugh. 

Taehyung fixes his body to face Seokjin and begs him not to. 

"No, I don't have a boyfriend. I'm not interested in that field," she answers honestly. Everyone made faces like they do not believe everything that she just said.

"Both of you and the President are literally together 24/7. You even sang a song for him on our Graduation Day! Don't lie noona, you are looking at each other like you've been dating for so long," Jimin says as he's teasing her by giving her those eyes.

Everyone turns their heads towards Jungkook who stands up as he crumbles the plastic wrapper that he's holding and went towards the near trash bin, "Nah, we're not really in that level like we're not a couple," she said as a defense as she combs her hair backward.

"So if you're still single, what's your ideal type anyway?" Seokjin questions.

All of them are anticipating the answer including Jungkook who immediately went back to his seat and didn't even throw the trash properly. Jieun starts to think about what to answer them, "I guess I want someone who's dependable. Someone who understands me truly," she simply says. 

"How about the face noona? You said you find me handsome!" Taehyung jumps in that made Jieun laugh at what he just said while everyone says, "Aish!" in unison, and some throws tissues at the kid.

"Of course, Taehyung-ah is handsome. I find eye smile very attractive, I don't really mind about the looks though," she said. 

Everyone nods their head, "You want someone dependable? So you're on to oppas— I see noona, I see," Jimin teases her more. 

She just smiles in response, she could not deny either since it is true that Kim Myungsoo is definitely her ideal type, "I guess you're right," and they reacted cheerfully and in shock with her confession in regards to Jimin's teasing of her and Myungsoo.

Except for one, who just got his world collapsed into pieces.

Chapter Text

"So what song are you guys gonna sing?" Jieun asks as she tries to help them to clean their place so that they could use the space to practice.

Hobi looks at her and smiles, "There's this song that we made, it's titled 'Boy in Luv'. Actually, Namjoonie took a big part in producing and writing it. We also decided to dance in this song too," he explains and sees Jieun getting more excited for their performance.

"That's dope! You guys are gonna dance and sing? Wow, Namjoon-ah! Woah, everyone! You guys are really really gonna do great in the festival," she says praising them genuinely. 

"You're gonna be there, right?" Taehyung asks.

She nods immediately, "Of course, I wouldn't miss it for the world!"

Everyone smiles at her response since they have been worrying about the people that may be watching, at least there will be one person who would cheer for them that it comforts them already.

"Shall we start?" Namjoon asks who is already near the sound system claps his hand to get everyone's attention.

The boys nodded in response and starts to go to their positions to prepare. Namjoon waited for them and when they are already done, he immediately taps something on his phone and plays the song that they mentioned earlier. 

While Jieun is in front of them leaning against the studio mirror and she's facing them. Their backs are facing Jieun since it is their starter position. From Jieun's right: there is Seokjin, Jimin, Yoongi, Jungkook, Namjoon, Taehyung, and Hobi.  The song starts with Jungkook's "I want to be your oppa" which startled Jieun.

She did not expect that this that kind of mindblowing performance. She thought it will be sweet and chill based on the title Boy in Luv but instead, it gave her the opposite feels. She is so overwhelmed with how Jungkook starts the song. 

Instead of looking at the studio wall, he's looking down at her— at first, she thought that it is part of the eye contact to the audience thing that performers should practice. The problem is, it is just Jungkook who is staring intently at her with a strong expression on his face. 

Jieun tries to stop putting meanings to everything that Jungkook does and just enjoys how they really put up with their performance that she— herself is caught off-guard especially with Jungkook and his piercing eyes that are not staring at his reflection nor the mirror but her especially when the chorus starts to play, Jieun was red all over the place. She could not look at Jungkook who happens to sing that part. 

It says "hold me tight before I kiss you" and as much how Jieun wants to shove off the thought, she still fears and shivers at the sight of Jungkook looking at her looking like he's gonna destroy her entire being— her mind and heart.

Everyone decided that they will walk Jieun home after their practice and dinner— as much as Min Yoongi opposes the idea and leave the whole plan to the boys while he'll be on his merry way to dreamland still went with Jieun after the whole argument about it.

On the other hand, Jieun was totally against the idea— aside from she is kind of embarrassed by the thought of them seeing what kind of area she's currently residing at and how small their house is, they are also boys that her father least expected from his daughter right now. But the boys did not even try to hear here since it is already 9 in the evening. Jieun, being a Godzilla in their eyes, is still a girl anyway.

She can already see the familiar lights to her house and the poor areas that stood out the most which is so much different from the road that they have been earlier. Jieun starts to grip her straps in her backpack as they entered her neighborhood. The first house is already raucous, there was a mom shouting at her children about not cleaning the house early and the second house was filled with older men drinking outside and singing karaoke. 

Jieun is already biting the inside of her cheeks since those guys have been checking her out and cat calling her often every time she enters the area. 

"Oh, Lee Jieun!" and her fear happened. She slowly turns her head to see that one of the guys that are the skinniest and has the most tattoos is already standing and walking towards her while trying to look good in front of her by combing his hair and looking at her in a most disgusting way.

Within a second, her sight of the old man was blocked by a shoulder which she looked up and sees it is from Yoongi. She looks around when she notices that it is not only Yoongi who is protecting her from the old men from the second house but everyone. 

Yoongi along with Taehyung, Namjoon, Hobi, and Jimin are already glaring at the old men while they stood in front of her between her and the perverts. While Seokjin is behind her holding her shoulder. She felt a hand holding hers and looks up to see it was from an angry Jeon Jungkook that has his eyes on the old men that are now smirking at the sight.

"You already got yourself some boy toys, Lee Jieun? I knew you were always good in making men comfortable in bed—"

Before the skinny pervert could add one more word, Jungkook already drops his bag violently and plunges himself to punch him with full force. The guys who were drinking with the pervert also make a move to stop Jungkook but before they could do that the other boys throw themselves to protect their maknae.

"Fuck," Jieun mutters as she combs her hair in frustration. 

She's worried about the bottles that the old men are holding, that they might use it as a weapon that is dangerous to any of them. Jieun looks around to find some help but her neighbors are all just standing there giggling and complimenting her schoolmates' looks while the other ones are betting. 

Calling the cops would be risky since there will be a higher chance that they could not perform at the music festival if they have a police record. They could be totally disqualified for it and it will be her fault— she would blame herself for it for the rest of her life. 

She looks at the house of the skinny pervert which is just a few steps away from the scene and she thought about how the skinny pervert is under his wife's rules. Jieun picks up the heaviest rock that she could find, she's guilty about what she will going to do since their house is just as small as theirs that smashing something would cause too much of their house. 

But she could not risk the boys' lives just because of her. No one should risk their lives for her, not on her watch. 

Jieun made sure that no one is looking at her, she thanked God that it is nighttime and the only light in the area is from the houses. With all her might she raises her right hand with the biggest rock clenched in it and prays that the wife, which she knew would be busy with her 6 children, will step out of her house. 

She throws it with full force, it bears all the worry that she felt at the moment that it did actually broke the cheaply built jalousie window in front of their house.  Jieun immediately sprinted back at the scene and they are still throwing fists at each other. Everyone has bruises on their faces and their uniforms are already messed up. 

There are five perverted guys in total versus the seven boys but they are adults and huge. She saw Hobi getting punched twice that it hit him to the ground. It shocked and upset Jieun that she slips her bag in front of her that has probably five books and swings it against the face of the old man. With her small physique, it blew the old man vaguely that it got back to his knees seconds after but gladly Namjoon steps in. 

"Landon!"

It was the shout of a woman in her 50's that echoed throughout the area. Fear was evident in the skinny pervert's eyes and stops his tracks despite Yoongi giving him the last knee kick right on his abdomen area. Jieun could also see that the other old men stopped when they heard the skinny man's grunt and his angry wife.

She immediately turns her head to look at the boys and shouted, "Run!" and grabs Min Yoongi who happens to be near her as she's still reassuring that everyone hears her cue. Everyone is now running away from the scene and sees that her other neighbors that are just watching earlier are too. 

That proves that the pervert's wife is that scary. 

Jieun once again turns her head behind to see if they're following but she stops when she sees Hobi limping, he was badly bruised as the other guys didn't notice since he's the one behind everyone. 

She let go of Yoongi's arm and slows down to reach Hobi but before that, Jimin and Seokjin notice Jieun's worry and look behind to see Hobi. They immediately went to Hobi first earlier than Jieun and help their friend. Both nod at Jieun to ease her worry.

Jieun felt a hand holding her waist and sees that it was Jungkook pulling her near him. He was behind Yoongi earlier, she thought that he may be following her since she notices that Jungkook was a fast runner.

Somehow, after the life-threatening experience and almost being the victim of those perverts— Yoongi finds what happened funny that it happens so suddenly and also it feels like forever that he was involved in fistfights like that. Yoongi realizes that this is the first time he's been into a fight with his new set of friends. 

The others hear Yoongi's laugh and sudden scream while they are still running as their lives depend on it. Jieun finds Yoongi, her archenemy, weird but at the same time rejuvenating that somehow she felt the urge to scream, and she did. The others somehow get the same energy as they start to scream at the top of their lungs while the night breeze smashes against their faces as they ran.

Except for Jeon Jungkook, who is still bothered about everything and worried for Jieun who lives in the same neighborhood as those guys and knew her. 

Jungkook felt a squeeze on his left hands and he sees that it is from Jieun, who is now noticing that Jungkook is the only one who's bothered and silent. She pulls out her arms away from his grip and slides her hand to hold his. She intertwines it and squeezes it more.

She looks at him for a brief moment and turns her head looking at the road as she shouts at the top of her lungs that he could see the veins on her neck showing. He felt the squeeze on his hand once more. 

It was like a cue that made Jungkook the last one to scream that his hyungs laugh at him. But what he notices the most after his scream was Jieun's thumb, caressing the back of his hand like what he always does to her every time they hold hands.

He felt alive— he felt the world.

Chapter Text

"Get the fucking girl, Kim Namjoon!"

Everyone starts to fuss about how they caught Namjoon just looking at the profile picture of someone while they're on a break from practice.

Jungkook went to Kim Namjoon but he already closes his laptop to avoid more attention and commotion that Park Jimin already started but it was no use since, "Yah! Everyone, Kim Namjoon has hots for a girl he can't have!" and he starts to laugh that follows the other guys who came from the shower, drinking water or resting.

They immediately hover around Kim Namjoon to know more about it.

"There's no one— no girl," he reasons out as he pretends to be busy with wiping his non-existent sweat as his friends are not buying it one bit, "Okay, there's a girl but she's not available okay? She's prioritizing her studies first and that's okay with me," he said as his neck to his face starts to turn red and his eyes couldn't face all of them.

"Kim Namjoon got dumped!" Hobi exclaimed as everyone roars him with tease except for Jungkook who stares at his hyung and how he's shy about their teasing and him mentioning the girl that he likes.

Jungkook bit his lower lip, "Hyung? How did you know that you already like her?" his question was faint and he was slurring his words like he's hesitating about his question but everyone seems to hear it as they diverted their attention towards their maknae.

"Yah! Jungkook-ie! You're on your crush stage right now? This is puberty y'all!" Seokjin laughs as everyone is still astonished at the thought that both Jungkook and Namjoon are pursuing girls. Although they are more curious about Jungkook's situation since he hasn't been showing interest in other girls despite there are plenty of ones that are lining up to get noticed by him. 

Even Namjoon's mouth went ajar while processing Jungkook's choice of question, "Ah.. Wow, you're really asking me that huh?" Namjoon pulls his body forward as both of his elbows are placed on both of his knees supporting his head. 

"I guess it is when you feel inspired thinking about her. You love learning little things about her and her dreams and how you wanted so much to be a part of those too. Your day gets better just because she does something even though it is small and sometimes does not really make sense like just mere smiling. It is when you feel these kinds of emotions that you want to protect that smile at all costs even if it destroys you in the process— Did you get what I mean?" Namjoon asks Jungkook that just closes his mouth as it was a sign that he listens to his hyung carefully as he is also barely blinking.

Jungkook carefully nods his head, "I don't think Jungkook understands a thing Namjoon-ah! He's still a kid. He probably asked the question because he finds someone pretty!" Seokjin made a statement that made everyone laugh except for Jungkook and Namjoon.

"Seokjin hyung is right! I guess he fell for Lisa, Rosé, or Sana. Those three are the only hotties that have hots for Jeon Jungkook!" Taehyung added and faces Jungkook that currently furrows his eyebrows at his predictions, "Who do you want to be close with? Me and Jimin will help you, Jungkook-ie," he says and pulls Jimin closer that is now smiling at their maknae.

Jungkook gets his towel and continues to wipe his sweat as he ignores his hyungs, "None of them," he simply stated and tries to process what Namjoon said earlier. 

"Jungkook is shy! Taehyung-ah and Jimin-ie, help him okay?" he hears Hobi from behind.

"No, hyung. I don't like any one of those three!" 

Everyone grins at his defensive response, "Then who's the lucky girl that those three will envy?" Yoongi asks as he leans back trying to interrogate their maknae. He was gulping so hard at the question and Jungkook is not the type who knows how to cover his emotions well.

"I— I don't know her name," he said as he checks his reflection at the studio mirror while wiping his hair.

His hyungs are almost rolling on the floor laughing because of his answer except for Yoongi and Seokjin who are just grinning at how sly their maknae is.

"Ah! My face hurts, I can't laugh damn it!" Taehyung exclaims while trying to suppress his laughter due to their fresh bruises from the fight yesterday.

"Okay, we'll pretend that we really buy that tactic Jungkook-ie," Jimin said and continues to laugh while he's already seated on the floor.

Meanwhile, Jieun checks the time and sees that it is almost the end of her morning shift. So far, everything was going smoothly with her and her job as a cashier. Myungsoo is still currently helping her with finding another one since he insists on doing so.

"Jieun-ssi? Are you.. uhh free for lunch?"

She looks at Eun Woo who's looking at her from the side of the counter, "Oh yeah, I guess. I don't have any schedule after my morning shift anyway."

Eun Woo licks his lower lip as his eyes were not settled into one place, "Uh, would you mind eating in a fast-food chain? I'll treat you, only if you don't mind," he said, he was shy. 

Jieun was taken aback by his sudden invitation. She thought it is just another normal question about her after schedule since he has been asking her that every 12 noon. She thought that he needed help until the last minutes of her shift. 

"Sure! I don't mind especially when it is free food," she chuckles as she finds him cute that made Eun Woo smile as well. 

Eun Woo was always the serious type of guy despite all of the customers tries to woo him over. She notices that he is popular with girls but he's the only one who does not give a damn about everyone and focuses on his studies. Both of them are taking the school's scholarship program that pays for their tuition fee. He places second to their academic rankings while Jieun is the first.

That is why Eun Woo is the guy that she least expected to invite her for lunch. Jieun did not put any meaning to it since she knew his priorities.

They are now waiting for their last customer for the noon as one of their co-workers will arrive and will be in charge while they eat.

Jieun sees a group of girls, who she knew as the 7th graders from their previous school year, approaching the store as she prepares herself in front of the counter. The hanging doorbell chimes as she welcomes them with a warm smile.

"OMG! Hello Miss Vice President!" 

One of them greeted and Jieun waves her hand in return. She has never been a terror to girls since there are just a few girls who are violating the rules. Also, Jieun could not get totally monstrous in disciplining girls— she thought maybe that her little sister and mother are too fragile that it impacts her way of treating every woman that she encounters.

She sees that they went to the sandwich section but notices that this one girl with bangs did not move an inch and stayed in one place while staring at her, smiling. Jieun smiles at her despite the awkwardness that she felt but she sees the girl walking straight to the counter where she's currently at.

"You're related to Jeon Jungkook, right eonnie?" the girl with bangs immediately asks her, without hesitations.

Jieun immediately realizes that this girl might probably Jeon Jungkook's classmate or someone that is close to him. She's also not that naive to see the look in her eyes while she mentions Jungkook that she likes him.

"Yes, he's my nephew actually," she smiles and the girl with bangs smiles even wider.

She held Jieun's hand, "Eonnie, please let me treat you lunch," she said while kind of doing aegyo in front of Jieun which she finds cute plus she's pretty.

"Oh no no, eat to your heart's delight. You need a lot of strength and nutrients while you can," Jieun refuses kindly towards the girl who is currently pouting.

She laughs as she finds her cute while pouting and still not letting go of her hands, "Okay, but maybe soon when we see each other again. I have agreed with someone already," she said. 

Sadness is evident on the girl's face, "Okay eonnie. I'm Lisa Manoban, please remember my name but it will be Lisa Jeon soon!" she said and giggles at her own imagination.

A smile crept on Jieun's lips as she's looking at how cute she is, "Aigoo, both of you are still young. Take it slow, okay? Get your food now, it is almost noon. I only have morning shift," she shares.

Lisa's eyes slightly widen as she ran towards the sandwich section and looks at her friends who are confused about what beverage to buy, "Yah, hurry! We should pick faster! Eonnie is ending her shift, we can't stay long!"

Jieun bit her lower lip to suppress her laugh at how cute they are.

"Noona!"

Everyone's attention went to the entrance where the voice came from and Jieun sees that the seven guys are already inside the store. Taehyung is already on for a hug which she immediately accepts while still in shock about their sudden visit.

"I didn't expect you guys to come here," she says as she looks at where Lisa is and sees that her jaw drops instantly while looking at the entrance area while her friends are giggling at their friend.

"We wanted to eat lunch with you— Oh! Lisa!"

Jimin points at Lisa when he is on his way towards the counter and then his attention went to Jungkook who also just notices where Jimin points his finger at. Everyone, including Jieun, is now biting their lips to suppress their visible grins.

Their maknae is involved with a girl is a cute thought.

Although Jungkook immediately diverts his attention back to Jieun that made her smile even more. Jungkook was taken aback at how Jieun enjoys the teasing between him and Lisa, he did not like it one bit. 

It was painful for him— It crushes him. Another one of her smiles that weirdly pains him.

Everyone went their attention to Taehyung when he coughs violently, "Hey Lisa! Would you like to join us? We will all be eating here anyway including Jieun noona," he said while his attention is also at Jungkook who's giving him a threatening glare.

Despite how red Lisa already is she immediately nods, "Yes! Yes, we will!"

Their hyungs laugh, as well as Jieun, at the kids, as they continue to roam to find what to buy. While Jungkook went straight to the counter as he violently pushes Jimin away from Jieun that just laugh at his maknae's rage.

"Yah! Don't be mad at Jimin, it's just lunch Jungkook-ah," Jieun said as Jimin pulls out two thumbs up.

Jungkook's jaw clenches at what she said which wipes off her smile and laugh when she finally realizes that Jungkook did not like it one bit, "Hey, you okay? Does this make you awkward? I'm sorry Jungkook-ah," she said.

He is still upset, "What do you want to eat? I'll get it for you," the only thing that he said and ignored the rest of her questions.

"Ah, I can't join you guys for lunch. Maybe some other time," she said.

Jimin and Taehyung's eyes immediately widened, "Why, noona? Do you have plans after your work? Where?" they ask.

She looks at Eun Woo who's busy inside the storage room that is visible from the counter, "Eun Woo is treating me for lunch," she answers.

Both of Jimin and Taehyung's brows furrows, "Yah! Noona, are you and that guy dating? Noona!" Taehyung whines while Jimin pouts. Jungkook, on the other hand, is silent.

Jieun laughs at their reaction, "No we're not! That's never my priority," she said in the middle of her laugh.

"I'm eating lunch with you."

Their attention went to Jungkook, he tilts his head to look at Jieun directly, "I will eat lunch with you, noona," he said like with conviction.

Jimin smacks his shoulder, "Yah imma! She's already said that she is not available, why are you forcing noona?" he scolds Jungkook who just clenches his jaw and fist.

Taehyung butts in, "Jeon Jungkook, what's wrong with you? Do you really hate Lisa for you to avoid her like that?" he asks him with his arms crossed.

While Jieun is looking at the pissed Jungkook who is now poking his cheeks using his tongue, she's still amazed at how this kid changed. He was always the one who can't get angry because he doesn't know how to express it well.

"I'm not eating lunch."

Within a second, Jungkook already left the store with an angry expression. Seokjin tries to stop him but he literally brisk his walking to the point that his hyung could not cope up— he was hella angry.

"It's puberty," everyone looks at Yoongi and they laugh except for Lisa and Jieun.

Chapter Text

"—and instead Jimin fell on the lake after saving his phone!" Taehyung almost fell on the floor laughing while Jimin stayed poker face during the whole story-telling.

Everyone laughs alongside Taehyung, "You should really rethink your priorities Park Jimin," Jieun says as she gets the bottle of water on their studio's pantry. She sees Jimin, who just finished his bath, slump himself in the corner of their couch hiding his embarrassed face with a pillow.

"What's her name again?" Jieun asks as she signals Hobi to scoot over a little to make a space for her to sit beside him, "Jean? Jennie? Oh, it's Jennie right?" she sees Jimin's cheeks rose up by just hearing the name of the girl that he's been chatting with— the reason why he fell on the lake saving his phone.

All of his friends laugh at his reaction when he slams his face again on his pillow, "You're so helplessly in love, you punk! Do you even stand a chance though?" Seokjin jests as he has this laugh that is contagious making everyone roll over their places because of laughing. 

Jimin immediately raises from his seat and points at Seokjin then everyone, "I bet my life that she will be mine! This guy right here," he starts to pose like he's some kind of magazine photoshoot, "— is irresistible."

Gasps and choking sounds were all over the room after Jimin blowing his own trumpet, "Ghastly Park Jimin! We will surely laugh at your heartbroken ass if you got yourself dumped any time soon. We will certainly throw a feast," Hobi exclaims as he gives Jimin a disgusted face and at the same time, laughing with his eyes.

"Stop teasing him, everyone! He might bawl his eyes. He ain't fooling around with that girl, I saw him writing a letter for that girl and even hugs it after," everyone's jaw drops when Yoongi shares what he saw. 

Jieun even covers her mouth and could not believe that the kid she knew is now pursuing a girl, even gave her a love letter, "Oh my gosh Park Jimin! You're the man!" says Jieun as she went to Jimin with her arms wide open, Jimin with a bewildered expression still accepts the hug.

It went for seconds and she notices that the other guys are confused with Jieun's reaction, "Girls still love that— cheesy love letter that always starts with dear insert-girly-name?" Hobi asks with a confused and naive face.

Taehyung laughs, "Even in class we're allowed to use gadgets on taking notes."

All of them are twiddling one's thumbs for her answer, "Uhh, of course? Everyone may use cellphones and stuff but nothing beats love letters, silly! Well, I can see some guys who receive one making fun of the idea of love letters and maybe some girls too— but I guess this Jennie girl is different," she says and give Park Jimin a wink for choosing the right girl.

Jimin, once again, turns red.

"So Lee Jieun, you're part of those girls who love the old style of conveying a message?" Namjoon wiggles his eyebrows while asking the girl beside Jimin. 

A smile crept from her face that also lifts her eyes, "Of course!"

Yoongi scoffs at her answer, "I bet this girl is still writing diaries and shits," and then he laughs. 

Before he could notice, Jieun already reaches for Yoongi's hair and pulls it. Yoongi wince in pain, she lets go of his hair and pinches his cheeks instead, "And what's wrong with writing diaries Min Yoongi? Huh? You and your bully ass, you deserve a smack," and they argue once again. 

Meanwhile, Jungkook silently went for his cellphone that is placed on the table and starts to go for the search engine and types...

How to write a love letter?

"Do you think I have a chance, eonnie?" 

Lisa's eyes sparkle as the sunlight that peaks through the glass window of the coffee shop they are in beams on her face, "To tell you honestly, I don't have any idea about his types Lili. He's still a kid, anyone can set those standards. So I guess you can be— I mean you're so pretty and cute, who would have a crush on you?" 

Jieun pinches her cheeks when she sees her pouting, "Eonnie, he's not even looking at me. He is always cold and he ignores me most of the time. Although Taehyung and Jimin keep on teasing him with me more than Rosé and Sana. So I guess, he's affected?" she asks, almost hopeful and at the same time looks like rejected.

"Lisa, I don't know about your feelings towards my nephew but at your age, you should be enjoying yourself with your girl friends right now. Starting 9th grade, your schedule will start to be hectic and you will not have time for fun," she leans back smiling at the adorable hoobae (junior) in front of her that is now currently frowning.

After what Jieun said, Lisa places her right cheek on the table, "That's why I need to make a move eonnie. We will be busy for the next school years might as well make a move so that we will be together on that hectic times,"  eagerness is evident on her voice as she's looking at the harsh sunlight of the afternoon. 

Jieun averts her gaze at Lisa and shares the same sight of the sky—it was a pretty day despite the scorching heat of summer, "It's your choice. Do what makes you happy no matter what, okay?" she says and notices Lisa looking at her with teary eyes full of adoration for her sunbaenim. 

"Eonnie! I love you, I really really love you," and they hug as Jieun giggles at how darling Lisa Manoban is— Jeon Jungkook suits her, Jieun believes that they would really match each other. 

She smiles at the thought that both of them will experience each other's first I love you's, probably first dates at the amusement park and such. Especially the Ferris wheel, play every game booths, buy some couple of things that couples do and probably watch the sunset. 

Youth.

In Jieun's case, it was taken away from her.  She knew that it is just a teaser of being with someone— being tied up in a commitment. Based on what her 'role models' suppose to enlighten her on the basics of love, she knew it will not be just flowers, rainbows, butterflies in your stomach, and fluttering of every neuron. Those were just artifices of love—deception to lure you into the fathomless feelings and emotions that may be the cause of someone's destruction.

Love was never for her, specifically commitment. 

Those shits scare the life out of Jieun. Before, her mom would always tell her stories about how handsome, kind and smart her dad was. She will always remember the first thing she learned about love, it is when you talk about someone like they're your favorite things—Like how she talks about Harry Potter.

Jieun always thought that love was the most beautiful thing anyone could wear on their faces. It gets you higher and higher that you feel like no one could make you feel miserable like you know nothing about how melancholy feels like. 

Not until you are pushed from the highest cliff by the person who got you there in the first place.

Jieun went on and on thinking about how love was a paradox to her when she hears a notification sound from her phone. She immediately checks it and sees that it is from Jeon Jungkook.

I'm here at your house, why aren't you home yet? Where are you?

Her eyes widen as she starts to dash her way towards their neighborhood that is just a few blocks away from where she is standing. She immediately opens their wooden gate when she finally arrives and flitters on opening their door. 

Since their house is so small, she immediately saw Jungkook the moment she enters the house since it is already their dining room and kitchen. He was looking at her with doe eyes that are full of worry and at the same time, she notices that his front air is already damped in sweat.

Jieun diverts her attention on their small electric fan and turns it on for Jungkook who is already sweating, "Why didn't you turn on the electric fan, you prick!" 

"Lee Jieun!" 

She stood up straight and sees her parents open the other door that leads to their bedroom already, "Mom, Dad! Uh, Jeon Jungkook is here." It was an obvious question but she mindlessly just said it out of nervousness.

"We know," her Dad says with the tone 'obviously' added to it. He went near where his daughter and Jungkook are and handed them money, "You guys buy something or eat something outside. We already ate hours earlier," he said.

It was an impactful pang in her chest because she knew that they didn't eat dinner. 7 PM was too early, they usually buy food outside at exactly 8 PM when everyone is already prepared for dinner since everyone is at home around that time.

Jieun instantly shakes her hand as she declines the money, "I already promised Jeon Jungkook that I will treat him with my own earned money appa! Since you know, it is much more worth it to spend something that you earned," she empty-headed picks a not-so valid reason.

"But—"

She grabs Jungkook's hand that he stood up in a flash, "We're going! You guys should rest now, don't be expecting me to come home early eomma, appa!" and both of them dashes outside their house and straight to their way out of the neighborhood. 

"I'm sorry."

Jungkook mutters. It was supposed to be a genuine and sincere apology, Jieun knew that Jeon Jungkook is not at fault for what has just happened but it did not make her feel any better. In fact, at some point, by apologizing he made her feel worse.

She lets go of his hand, "Go home. Your parents must have been so worried right now. Stay safe," she seems nonchalant but it bothers Jungkook, he's not naive that this kind of Jieun is okay. He knew she's not and if she is, he knew and always will.

Jieun starts to turn around, her steps were heavy. She told her parents that she was supposed to come home late. The road was dark and there is no street light, only the moon was lighting her way. She thought about the youth that she shares with Lisa, about doing everything that makes you happy—cherishing the moments of being a kid. 

She realizes that she's still a kid too.

Why is she different? What makes her different from the teenagers who just thought about their crushes and the fluttering feelings of falling in love with someone? What makes her this miserable at the age of fifteen? 

Kids who have gone through pain, grow up too fast.

A warm touch envelopes her shoulders from behind until she felt a body pressed against her back. She hears heavy breathing from behind as she felt a sultry and fondle embrace from the person that she knew from the vanilla and pear scent—it's Jeon Jungkook. 

She was about to escape from his grasp but, "If you're tired—" it causes her steps to halt as he tightens his grasps but it was nothing possessive, his touch is more like pleading, longing and it feels like he has been waiting for this moment to come.

"If you're tired, come to me. Meet me from behind and don't run away, I'm always here whenever you're tired and couldn't sleep, whenever you feel like you're alone and empty. I'm always here, please look at me just this once."

Jieun felt a drop of liquid on her arms—he's crying.

Chapter Text

Both were silent as they stare at the full moon from the park's bench. 

If this is a normal night, Jieun's true crime enthusiast self would be panicking and overthinking right now that they're in an open field with just 3 street lights surrounding the area. There are only a few cars passing by since they in a suburb.

But surprisingly, none of those thoughts lingers in Jieun's mind as she just felt so full right now, like she's lost in a desolated darkness, void of everything at the moment. She was the type of girl that appreciates every little thing especially the full moon, but she could not even absorb all the majestic facets of it despite her staring at it directly.

She's blank—a mere human vessel without a soul.

"Do you know how cruel the world is, Jeon Jungkook?"

He immediately leans forward when he hears her voice at last but it was cold and sounds like she just asks him eliminating the life of her words, "No... Not yet. How cruel is it?" he was hesitating. He was nervous that she would not lean on to him again. 

How could she trust him and depend on him when he can't even place himself in her shoes? He mutters curses at the back of his head about how useless he is and regrets that answer. 

Unexpectedly, he hears a laugh from her— a hollow and lethargic one.

"It's actually good that you don't know since you're still a kid," she looks at him and smiles, it was somehow genuine but kind of sad, "Live your life. Cherish it, always be thankful. Don't be too blinded by material things—They're all just fleeting euphoria that would not do you any good. You're doing well Jeon Jungkook, you're doing everything well. Good job!"

Jieun showers him with compliments to compliments. She was happy, it is the same smile that he sees whenever she's laughing and smiling with his hyungs. Her eyes are smiling and her cheeks are rising up. 

But for Jungkook knew it was eccentric. 

However, he doesn't know what to do to make her feel better nor he doesn't know how to find the right words to say. He was agitated and at the same time scared— Scared that she may realize that he's not the right person that she needed as she did before when they were young.

But he taught of something that Jieun is always fond of before, they were always singing and trying to compose something every time they stay up late at night. Those were mostly childish compositions but she was always at ease.

Perhaps it would help, perhaps singing would help the both of them again.

"Can I sing something for you?"

She looks at him with a puzzled look, his eyes were conveying all kinds of messages that Jieun could never decode. It makes her shiver, maybe in fear or maybe she's anticipating it. Jungkook is always the type that you can always read but these days, some other times, Jieun can't decipher his actions and it frightens her to the core.

Jieun scarcely nods at the sight of him. Jungkook presses both of his lips after getting the girl's permission and tilts down his head to prepare himself.

"Please, don't see, just a boy caught up in dreams and fantasies," he starts with a voice that sounds so familiar to Jieun, she has always admired his singing like she's home, "Please, see me. Reaching out for someone I can't see," she remembers what he said earlier.

She sees him so clearly in front of her, he looks so beautiful. Behind him was the full moon and the night sky, the framework must be ashamed of how Jeon Jungkook outshines them he's much more starry than the terrestrial lights behind, she thought.

"Take my hand let's see where we wake up tomorrow."

The thought of how her future girl would be so lucky to have this kind of guy in her life. She smiles at the thought of Lisa and him, but at the same time, there's a peculiar twinge of pain on her chest thinking about it.

It scares her once more. 

She's scared of herself, she's scared of her feelings— she's scared of love. 

Love was never nice to her, to begin with. It will just destroy her, destroy everything that she holds dear. Whatever she's feeling right now, she can conceal it. As long as no one will pull the trigger, as long as nobody else knows. 

Jieun turns back to Jungkook whom she caught staring back at her, "But are we all lost stars, trying to light up the dark?" she smiles at the part of the song. They're just lost stars, she's a lost star.

It is the comfort that she needs and she's scared of pinning her whole life on the line for this kind of comfort, she's unsettled for the best things that happen in her life that one day may fade and left her drowning in the depths of the godforsaken sea.

But now, she wants to relish every second that her memory could hold. So that she will keep it forever and saves it for the days that she needs something to hold on to.

"What's the purpose of you coming over anyway?" she asks minutes after she showers Jungkook all of the praises that he deserves.

He raises his right arms and scratches his nape, his cheeky, and at the same time his shy smile is visible on his face that made Jieun smile instantly, "Why are you smiling like that? Jeon Jungkook, I didn't know you're that weird, huh?" she tries to joke to cover her amusement and adoration of his smile that he shows her.

Jungkook, from being cheeky, starts to turn red and his unexplainable happiness is still transparent in his eyes. Jieun always thought his emotion was so easy to read, but she couldn't understand why he's smiling like this. 

"I... I have something for you," he could not look at her in the eyes even. 

Jieun's brows start to furrow in confusion, "What is it? You've been spoiling me with a lot of things lately. That's so sweet of you Jeon Jungkook," she compliments him and didn't hide the admiration and appreciation she truly felt for the things he did for her. 

She sees him slowly turns his upper body to reach for his big backpack. He keeps on rummaging and scrabbling something inside his huge bag and then he suddenly pauses. Jieun guesses that he's kind of hesitant to give her the thing that he said he will give. 

The thought of it adds up to the excitement and thrill of knowing what the thing that he's nervous about.

He slowly raises his left arm indicating that he is now ready to pull it out of his bag. She slowly sees a paper and realizes that it is some kind of letter or a... contract?

"I don't know how to write or had any experience in writing letters but—" before he could add something to his explanation, Jieun finds his gulping and heavy sigh which denotes that he's nervous that he forgot how to breathe, "I try to write something that I hope... you will like."

Jungkook slowly hands her the paper with a nervous and shy smile that made Jieun giggle as she reaches out to accept his letter. She was about to open it when "Wait!" Jungkook exclaims. Jieun gives him a confused face. 

"Ah... Can I take you home first? I... I'm shy," he said, his voice was almost faint and shaky. He was truly hoping that Jieun would not be turned off by him chickening out by a mere letter. 

All he heard as a response was a laugh, she is laughing so hard that she pushes herself back while holding her stomach. Her eyes are shut as she's laughing so hard and loud, "Oh my God! Jeon Jungkook, you're impossible!" and she continues to laugh.

Jungkook bit his lower lip and tilts his head down, he's happy that she's now smiling and laughing but he could not help to be embarrassed about the reason.

"Okay, okay...  I'm sorry! Hahaha! Okay, I'm going to stop. I'm sorry. Okay, woah." Jieun even slightly slaps her cheeks to stop laughing. She stands up in front of him and extended her hand in front of the shy and silent Jeon Jungkook. 

He looks at the girl in front of him who's now smiling genuinely at him and sees her hand, "Take me home?" she gently asks.

Bewildered and mouth agape at the sight, he felt his cheeks start to heat up his eyes are stuck at her. The beauty that she is, the angel that she radiates— if he could relive this moment forever even if he's under simulation for it, he will totally take the bait.

Jieun waves her hands in front of him because he seems like he's not functioning, "Jeon Jungkook, you're really acting weird right now. You're starting to scare me a little bit," she chuckles and snatches his hand for him to stand up. 

"Let's call this a day."

The whole walk to her house was silent and she thanks him for keeping her company, he was indeed the comfort she needs.

She looks at the letter that Jungkook gave. Jieun finds it adorable that he even bought a heart design paper with lines on it. This reminds her of her elementary days when she's fond of writing letters for her crushes and they find it absurd. 

Now she receives one, Jungkook was one heck of a different kind.

the sea has nowhere near
you whose beauty is fathomless
feverish of your smile, your eyes
please, can you be like the moon?
stay in where my sight can reach
for my darkest nights, you ameliorate
I'll be the constellations, my moon
until all my terrestrial being collapse

- jjk ♡

It was then she realizes, after all of the moments that they share, could it be possible that he's feeling the feeling she's thinking. Is it really? He's young and naive, while she's the opposite. How could he be sure about this stuff? How could he produce feelings for someone like her?

Is this just Jeon Jungkook having a small crush? She thought. 

She's scared— she knew this would never work if this is what she thinks it is. She's fucking terrified that she had the power to hurt him and take away his youth because she knew she could not give everything to him. Not at her state that she could not even prioritize love, the fact that she's also scared of love.

Jieun thinks he's just having a crush, which confuses her that a part of her likes the thought. When they are raised thinking they are family. She could not fathom how terrifying it must have been if she and him— She pauses. Tears are running down her cheeks thinking about how it would end. 

Their families. 

Why did Jeon Jungkook have to complicate this? How did Jungkook get me for a second to forget about everything and risk it for him?

Shaking her head and raises her hand to comb it out of frustration. She wanted to tear the evidence of this absurdity—not just because of Jeon Jungkook but mostly the power of his letter that would end her, her relationship with her family, and everything that she holds so dear.

Her family are relying on her; her mother who's the breadwinner is relying on her, her father who's emotionally damaged is relying on her and her little sister— her little sister... Jieun needs to work hard so that she could enjoy every inch of her youth. That she will not end up just like her who got stuck on the family drama and blames her parents for everything. Her little sister doesn't need to know that she could not pin her hopes on her parents anymore. 

It does not matter that she's the only one who holds all the weight. 

Even if it means hurting other people— even if it means hurting the person who made her feel like the constellation are hers, that they shine for her and that they exist for her. Even if it means hurting the person who has the power to make her feel like she's human.

Even if it is Jeon Jungkook.

She knew she has to end this.