The field behind them, they paused briefly at a small pool nestled in an alcove of trees. Taehyung stooped and skimmed a small pebble across the stagnant water—sending small waves rippling across the mirror-like surface. The boys watched as the radiating ripples ruffled the water, distorting the perfection of the pool and their own reflections.

"Nearly there, come on." Taehyung mumbled under his breath as if he was saying it to himself, his eyes scanning the way ahead distractedly. Jimin tried to reach for his hand but he turned away, leaving his hand hanging awkwardly.

Something heavy coiled in Jimin's gut, and a wave of nausea washed over him. The black butterflies flitted lazily near the water's edge, dipping their tiny feet into the pool and disturbing its serenity.

Taehyung had never acted this way before.

Jimin glanced reluctantly over his shoulder at the checkered cloth on the bank and followed Taehyung into the dense undergrowth.