Jimin has never been a morning person, but when Monday comes around she couldn't be happier as she shuts off her alarm. It's not the Monday of it all, but rather the distractions it'll bring. With classes back in session and Coach Heo doubling down on ramping up cheer practice, Jimin won't have any time to spare which works in her favor perfectly.

After her and Minjeong's eventful past few days, Jimin just – she needs a break from the blonde before she does something reckless.

Again, it's all about avoidance and denial. So she immerses herself in her work as soon as they get back to campus, hoping that'll be enough to stomp out any embers left. She can't let anything catch fire, no matter how her heart tries to persuade her to do differently.

She knows what's best and right now that's focusing on things she can actually control: school and cheerleading.

─

In addition to everything going on in Jimin's head, Jessica has also started up again with the daily phone calls and texts. Thankfully, they're all pertaining to one thing and one thing only.

"Have you given Yunjin an answer yet?"

Jimin sighs as she gathers her belongings and heads for the library exit. She keeps an eye out for her fake girlfriend as she goes, but Jimin knows she should be in class right about now – hence why she chose now to study.

But of course, Jessica had other plans.

"Hi, I'm great. Thanks for asking," Jimin replies sarcastically.

The sound of her voice garners the attention of a few students studying nearby. They cut her with disapproving glares to which she glares right back. She's on her way out already, what more do they want?

Jessica scoffs, "I'd be a little more interested in how you are if you'd quit ignoring my calls."

"I'm not ignoring them. You just happen to call whenever I'm in class or at practice."

"Don't lie. I know your schedule."

Jimin rolls her eyes as she makes her way outside. She totally forgot about that. Nevertheless, she shouldn't have to answer every single call but she's also not going to argue with Jessica either.

If she's being honest, she's been trying to be as unavailable as possible lately. It's all part of her genius plan of avoidance and denial! Even Minjeong's texts have gone unanswered and there's only been a handful of them all week.

"Sorry," Jimin replies. "If it makes you feel better, I haven't really been answering anyone's calls."

"I should be getting special treatment considering I'm your mother," Jessica chastises. "Now, since you've finally answered – you need to call Yunjin soon and let her know what you want to do."

"I know."

"There's a lot of planning going into this wedding and she needs an answer as soon as possible."

"I know," Jimin repeats herself. She wanders over to a bench shaded by a tree and tries reorganizing her bag. She left the library in such a rush in order to answer the call that she pretty much threw everything in.

"And what have you decided?"

"Of course I'll be her bridesmaid," Jimin answers simply. "I wouldn't turn her down like that. I've just been busy this week. I'll try to call her after practice tonight."

"Okay," Jessica replies contently. "Good. You'll probably have to make another trip back before the wedding so you can get your dress in order. Yunjin was saying she's having her favorite designer flown in so everything can be custom made."

"Of course she is," Jimin tries to mask her annoyance. Why'd she expect Yunjin to be anything less than extra? "I'm not even going to ask how it's possible to whip up a few dresses in a matter of weeks."

"You know your uncle," Jessica notes with a chuckle. "It's best not to ask questions."

Jimin chuckles, "True."

"Look, I know how Yunjin likes to press your buttons so I get why you're hesitant. I'm sure she wouldn't mind Minjeong tagging along to the fittings? She might be able to help keep the peace. Maybe she'll even find a dress here too while she's at it?"

Jimin gulps. Minjeong's attendance at the wedding has sort of become that thing they don't talk about which isn't really ideal. It's mostly Jimin dragging her feet, still unable to decide what the hell she's doing.

Do they break up before or after the wedding? She has yet to finalize a decision.

It's like she's trying to find the perfect balance of believable and convenient, but nothing's adding up – it's probably because she's trying to figure it out herself rather than listening to Minjeong and working together on it.

Or maybe it's because she doesn't want this to end when she knows it has to?

"Or not," Jessica adds upon Jimin's silence. "Just a suggestion."

"That's fine, yeah. I just," Jimin braces for impact. "We haven't really talked about the wedding much."

"What do you mean?"

"Like, if she's going..."

"What's there to talk about?" Jessica jokes. "She's your girlfriend. It's a given that she's going, is it not?"

Jimin bites her lip. It's a bit more complicated than that.

"We still have to talk about things though. I can't just assume," Jimin responds before realizing the time. "Crap! I've got to go. Minjeong and I have a big presentation next class and we're supposed to squeeze in one last practice."

"Oh! Of course. Let me know how everything goes with Yunjin and good luck, honey."

"Thanks," Jimin replies before they bid their goodbyes.

─

Jimin's surprised to find that she actually beats Minjeong to class despite Jessica's phone call holding her up. It gives her enough time to take out the materials she'll need for their presentation. She's in the middle of checking over everything just in case there's anything she's forgotten when Minjeong shows up.

With how much time Jimin's been spending on her studies and practice, she almost forgot what it felt like whenever Minjeong walked into a room. There's a noticeable shift and if she were standing, she's sure her knees would go a little weak.

It's actually pathetic how bad she's got it for the girl.

"Hey," Jimin greets coolly despite the fluttery feelings in her stomach.

"Hi," Minjeong gives her a small smile. "You beat me here."

"There's a first for everything," Jimin jokes while Minjeong starts to get organized.

Jimin watches her, wondering if she feels this weirdness in the air too or if it's just her? Maybe the weirdness is really just nerves since this is one of the biggest assignments they've had all year and it's finally drawing to a close.

This was the first thing that brought them together; back when they couldn't stand being in the same room let alone working with one another. Jimin remembers how she dug her heels in, refusing to work with her and Minjeong reacted just the same.

God, they were so stubborn. They still are.

But now that it's coming to a close it feels like they've come full circle. The way they bounce off of each other, how synchronized they can be, just the overall betterment in understanding – Jimin can't imagine going back to the way things were between them before.

It feels oddly bittersweet.

"You ready?" Jimin asks, wanting to break up the silence.

"Born ready," Minjeong tells her confidently. "Are you?"

Jimin lifts her chin, "Of course."

─

They end up killing their presentation, but that's no surprise considering how long they've worked together on it. Professor Kang is wildly impressed by their work and applauds their efforts, citing the duo as shoe-ins for the grant.

Honestly, Jimin had forgotten all about the money. She's had bigger things on her mind.

Apparently, so has Minjeong.

They've barely made it out of the building when Minjeong turns to her. Jimin can already see the curious look in her eye and can take a lucky guess at what she might ask. It's probably the same question Jimin's been trying to avoid all week, that's where their synchronicity doesn't come in handy.

"So," Minjeong starts. "What happens now for us?"

Jimin laughs a little nervously and jokes, "Tired of me already?"

"I could ask you the same thing," Minjeong replies sounding slightly more serious.

Jimin frowns, "What's that supposed to mean?"

"I've barely seen you all week," Minjeong explains like it's obvious. "It's kind of unlike you."

"I've been busy," Jimin says in an attempt to be dismissive.

Minjeong quirks a brow, "Right. Well, now that you're here. When are we going to talk about things?"

Jimin tries to play coy, "What things?"

"You know," Minjeong's tone verges on impatient. "The assignment's over and there's not much else tying us together so that means we should be wrapping things up, right? I mean, how much convincing does your family still need?"

"How am I supposed to know?" Jimin shrugs as she keeps an eye on the other students around them. She wonders how many of them are here for a show or if she's just being paranoid.

"I'm just saying," Minjeong replies. "We talked about coming up with a plan– "

"And we will."

"When?" Minjeong demands. "You've been busy all week."

"I have been busy," Jimin assures her. "Coach Heo is working us double-time with Nationals next week."

"It's not like you practice all day every day."

Jimin scoffs, "You'd be surprised."

"So you can't return a text then?" Minjeong challenges. "I don't even see you during lunch breaks anymore."

Jimin starts to feel that familiar sense of being backed into a corner. All of Minjeong's questions are valid but Jimin just doesn't have the answers.

"I've been hitting the library instead," Jimin shrugs.

Minjeong crosses her arms, "You hate going to the library."

"I don't hate it..."

"I also haven't seen you there."

"So?" Jimin starts to get defensive, "I go when you aren't around."

And that's what does it for Minjeong. Her face falls and Jimin immediately regrets giving such a bad excuse.

"Are you avoiding me?"

"What?" Jimin tries to lie. "No."

"Seriously?" Minjeong looks as unamused as ever. "Don't do that."

"Don't do what?"

"Don't try to play me," Minjeong scolds. "Why are you trying so hard to drag this out?"

"I'm not!"

"You are!" Minjeong argues just as loudly.

Jimin softens as she notices more people stopping to stare. She tries focusing on Minjeong though, watching the way her face has gone flushed in a matter of seconds. Jimin can already feel the guilt within her building.

"Where is this coming from?" Jimin asks, making sure to keep her voice lowered so she doesn't set Minjeong off any more than she has already.

"A place of frustration, clearly."

Jimin bites her lip at Minjeong's clipped tone.

"You can see how this is unfair, right?" Minjeong adds. "You can't keep icing me out like this. I didn't expect to waste my entire Junior year playing house with you."

And that cuts Jimin deeper than she'd like to admit. A waste? So that's what Minjeong truly thinks of her and their time together? Awesome.

Jimin hardens, "Oh because you'd be so much better off chasing after your favorite four-eyed loser?"

She regrets the words as they leave, but she sometimes says things she doesn't mean when she's hurt. Censoring herself right now isn't much of a priority. Minjeong hit her in a sensitive spot, so Jimin will just have to hit right back.

"At least then I wouldn't be faking it," Minjeong explains.

Jimin laughs bitterly, "Not until you hit the bedroom."

Minjeong's jaw drops but Jimin doesn't waver despite already regretting the blow. Minjeong goes to tense her jaw, her eyes hardening in a way that makes Jimin's chest tighten in all the wrong ways.

"Just break up with me already!"

Jimin's eyes widen and she surges forward, urging Minjeong around the corner so that they're at least somewhat shielded from their growing audience.

"Keep your voice down!" She glances nervously around before looking back to Minjeong. She searches stormy brown eyes, "What are you doing?"

Minjeong relaxes slightly and it has Jimin backing away, watching her cautiously.

"I asked to be included in the plan and suddenly you're a ghost," Minjeong explains. "That can't be a coincidence. If you have something planned, just do it already."

The sudden hitch in Minjeong's tone has the onlookers whispering. Jimin looks at them and looks back at Minjeong, hoping that she'll see that a crowd is starting to form. It doesn't seem like she cares much about them though, her gaze stays fixed on Jimin.

Jimin softens, "Minjeong...that's not what's happening."

"Then what is it? Why are you keeping me in the dark again?" Minjeong asks. "I need answers or a timeline or something because I'm getting tired of doing this."

Jimin swallows the lump in her throat, "How do you think I feel? I'm in the same boat as you are."

"Are you?" Minjeong questions.

Jimin frowns at how Minjeong stares back so challengingly. It rattles her, the way Minjeong seems to look straight through her. Jimin hasn't witnessed a look like that in a while and she hates that she's at the receiving end of it now.

More importantly though, she hates how everything they do has to have an audience.

"People are starting to stare," Jimin whispers. Maybe the reminder will be enough to have Minjeong backing off for the moment, at least until they can be somewhere more private.

"Good. Let them," Minjeong huffs unexpectedly. "Let's do this now then. How about I save us both the trouble and break—"

Jimin lunges forward, pressing a searing kiss to Minjeong's lips before she can say anything more. So often, Minjeong's the one pulling a move like this but desperate times call for desperate measures. If Jimin didn't act, who knows what Minjeong would've said.

Jimin keeps Minjeong close until she feels the blonde relax into kissing her back. And that has to be a good sign, right? She could've easily pushed Jimin away and told her to go fuck herself, but she didn't. Somewhere in her, despite how much of a pain Jimin's been, Minjeong's still trying to preserve the illusion.

When Jimin pulls away, her eyes dart back and forth between Minjeong's. She feels like a nervous wreck after the stunt she pulled, but she didn't have much of a choice.

"Please," Jimin begs as she sets her hands on Minjeong's shoulders to steady herself. "We'll talk about things soon."

Minjeong shakes her head, "I need you to do better than that."

"Tonight," Jimin replies. "After practice."

Minjeong lets out a sigh as she averts her eyes. She's no stranger to Jimin using practice as an excuse to be a no show. Jimin knows that too; it's hard to be reliable with Coach Heo around.

Lucky for her, she knows just how to make her point.

"I promise," Jimin assures Minjeong. She holds out her pinky, waiting for Minjeong to meet her halfway.

Minjeong looks from Jimin to her outstretched pinky then back to Jimin again. She's skeptical and Jimin knows it. She can't blame her though considering her track record. But this conversation has really shown Jimin how important it is for them to talk about things, she can't beat around the bush any longer.

Like Minjeong said, it's unfair.

"Come on," Jimin urges. "Please?"

"Okay fine," Minjeong relents and takes Jimin's pinky in hers. "I won't wait forever for you though, so don't be late."

Jimin swallows dryly at the finality in her tone, but she masks the anxious feeling in her stomach with an encouraging nod.

"I'll do my best," She tells her with a squeeze to Minjeong's pinky. "Promise."

─

And she does try her best, but she still ends up getting out of practice later than she'd like. In fact, she's way later than she'd like and now she's hauling ass to the library before she pisses Minjeong off any more than she already has.

Jimin busts through the door and races up the stairs to Minjeong's usual table. Her entire body aches from practice and her calves burn even more with every step she takes, but she pushes through.

Upstairs, Minjeong's already begun gathering her things.

"Wait!" Jimin yells out despite it being a library. "I'm here!"

Minjeong looks up and Jimin can't tell whether that's annoyance or relief all over her face.

"Seriously? I was this close to leaving," Minjeong tells her as Jimin draws near.

Guess it's annoyance...

"I'm sorry," Jimin sighs. "I got here as fast as I could. Coach was – nevermind, it doesn't matter. I'm here now."

Minjeong doesn't say anything, she just nods as she goes to sit across from Jimin. When she silently offers her water bottle, Jimin thinks maybe she hasn't fucked up as bad as she thought.

They settle into an awkward silence while Jimin tries to catch her breath between sips.

"Are you sure Coach is allowed to hold you this late for practice?" Minjeong asks and if Jimin didn't know any better she'd think that sounded an awful lot like Minjeong worrying about her.

"I don't know," Jimin shrugs. "Probably not but she's an Olympian so they let her do whatever as long as the squad's winning. She's nothing like my last Coach though."

Minjeong shakes her head at that before her eyes land on Jimin once again. They're softer this time, softer than they've been all day, and Jimin finds comfort in that.

"You look exhausted," Minjeong notes.

"I am," Jimin tries brushing off of the comment with a chuckle. "I haven't really slept right since we've been back. I've had a lot going on lately."

Minjeong hums in response before averting her eyes to the table.

Jimin looks away too, unsure of what happens next. This is why she's been dragging her feet all week, there's too many issues that need addressing! How can she even begin when she's still trying to recover from their weekend?

Still, putting things off for as long as she has didn't help the situation either. If anything, it's made everything so much worse. It shouldn't be surprising, she knew it was a possibility but when it comes to these kinds of things Jimin usually opts for the easiest way out – which doesn't always mean it's the smartest.

"So," She starts in favor of breaking up the heavy silence.

"So."

"What was that earlier? After the presentation," Jimin asks first. It's what's been bothering her all practice so it's the first question that escapes. "You kind of blindsided me."

Minjeong pulls back a little, "I was frustrated."

Jimin keeps quiet, sensing there's more.

"I've been so patient all week, accepting your lame ass excuses and trying to be understanding," Minjeong continues. "But you've worn me out and I'm tired of being put on the back burner. You don't get to take advantage of my kindness. We have something important to talk about and you just keep putting it off. I figured making a fuss was the only way I'd get your attention."

Jimin bites her lip. She might've known Minjeong would have a high tolerance for her bullshit considering their history, but she still shouldn't have abused it for her own sake. She was wrong for that and so many other things.

"I'm sorry, Minjeong," Jimin replies guiltily. "I didn't realize that's how you felt."

Minjeong hums but she's not at all convinced by Jimin's apology.

"I just got caught up in my routine," Jimin continues to explain. "Practice is kicking my ass and getting back into going to class and studying after a free week, it's been a lot. I figured it would be the same for you too? I figured we'd talk about things when we had the time, I didn't think I'd need to tell you that."

"Well I can't read your mind, Jimin."

Jimin stiffens at her tone, but Minjeong's quick to soften. There's an unspoken apology and Jimin finds herself nodding. Despite constantly praising their synchronicity, they definitely weren't on the same page this time.

"I know," Jimin answers. "I realize now how ridiculous that sounds when I say it out loud, but I didn't think you were in such a rush. The sudden urgency to have everything worked out took me by surprise. I thought you were fine with how things were going, I guess I thought wrong."

It looks as though Minjeong's going to reply, but she swallows back her words leaving Jimin to continue on.

"I know I've been an ass this week and I'm sorry," Jimin says. "I didn't mean to make things harder, I just – I thought we had a little more time. I thought we were on the same page. I should've spoken up sooner."

Minjeong mulls over Jimin's words while Jimin wonders whether or not Minjeong's going to stick her in the dog house for her antics – or maybe something even worse. She's hoping Minjeong will have mercy on her; after spending so much time together, Jimin's quickly discovered that she hates making Minjeong upset.

And yet, she can't seem to quit doing it? It's exactly why they'd never work out.

"I'm sorry too," Minjeong surprises Jimin with an apology of her own. "I shouldn't have lashed out on you like I did. I could've blown our cover and all of this would've been for nothing. I let my frustrations get the better of me."

"I get it," Jimin replies with a guilty smile. "I'm kind of a pain in the ass when it comes to these things."

Minjeong quirks and brow and smirks, "Kind of?"

Even if it's at her own expense, Jimin's thankful to see Minjeong giving into their usual banter.

"Yes, kind of," Jimin jokes. "We can't all be as perfect as you are."

Minjeong chuckles and the sound eases Jimin's nerves, they even share a smile, but the heaviness hasn't faded away completely. There's still unfinished business that they have to attend to and it continues to loom over them like a familiar dark cloud.

"I need to know how long we have to do this," Minjeong says but in a much softer tone. "I can't play pretend with you like this forever."

Jimin bites her lip. Can't we?

They've become such great actors, no one can ever tell the difference – not even her. This thing they have, it's the closest Jimin can ever get and she's not ready to give it up.

But if she says that aloud, Minjeong will ask why not and then that's a whole other issue that needs handling. If Jimin keeps quiet, then it'll be one less. This little crush or whatever she has will fade away eventually and everything will go back to normal for them.

Well maybe not normal, but they'll be in a place that friends are supposed to be and Jimin will be free of her wishful thinking. She can go on her separate way and Minjeong will go onto hers, and they'll date whoever they want and everything will be fine again.

And Jimin's sure at some point that thought won't make her stomach churn. At some point, she might even be happy for the girl. But until then, she can't help but to indulge herself just a little longer while she still can.

"Well," Jimin starts and she can already feel the nervousness in anticipation of Minjeong's answer. "How do you feel about being my plus one?"

Minjeong's brows rise, "To Yunjin's wedding?"

"Yeah," Jimin puts on a hopeful smile. "If I'm going to be a bridesmaid, I'll need a date."

Minjeong smirks, "So you finally agreed?"

"Not yet," Jimin chuckles. "I was actually supposed to call her tonight but more important things came up."

Minjeong rolls her eyes as Jimin smiles adoringly.

"You want me to go with you after everything you said about dreading it? What if she makes me jump out of a helicopter too?" Minjeong asks.

"At least we'll go down together?" Jimin jokes lightly.

Minjeong snorts, "I thought we were friends?"

"We're fake girlfriends first."

"Well, I take it back," Minjeong jokes. "Break up with me beforehand."

"Minjeong! I thought you loved weddings?" Jimin pouts. "You really don't want to go with me?"

"Don't do that face," Minjeong groans.

Jimin doesn't listen, "Friends share the pain."

"I don't know what kind of friends you've had..."

"Yeah," Jimin loses the pout and chuckles. "I'm pretty new at the whole thing, but I've had a great teacher."

"Now you're trying to butter me up too?" Minjeong laughs. "You're terrible."

"I know," Jimin smirks. "So what do you say? Be my date one last time?

Maybe she'll regret this decision later on but right now inviting Minjeong seems like the perfect plan. It gives her a little more time with Minjeong and she'll avoid her family pestering her all night about what went wrong. Hell, she might even have a good time while she's at it too.

But, Minjeong hesitates.

"Can I think about it?"

Jimin blinks and quickly tries hiding her surprise behind nonchalance.

"Oh yeah, sure!" Jimin tries to play it cool. "Totally, yeah."

Jimin fidgets under Minjeong's watchful eye, failing to seem unfazed by Minjeong's reluctance.

"It's not that I don't want to go with you..."

"Of course," Jimin shrugs off.

Why'd she even ask in the first place? Minjeong clearly wants out of this. Why else would she be pressing so hard for a breakup plan to be put in place?

It stings a little more when Minjeong reaches across the table to touch the back of Jimin's hand. It's meant to be comforting, reassuring, but it has the opposite effect. It feels a lot like pity and Jimin hangs in suspense, waiting for the but to drop.

"I just," Minjeong shrinks back. "I have to think about it."

"You really don't need to explain," Jimin replies. "I know it's a lot to ask for."

"It's not that," Minjeong insists.

Jimin nods, but the embarrassment is quickly setting in. This is why she doesn't spend all her time with wishful thinking, it never goes in her favor.

"It's cool," Jimin says but it's more to convince herself. "I'll just – I'll hold off on telling everyone about the breakup until after the wedding so it doesn't take away from Yunjin's big day. I'm sure people are going to wonder why you aren't around but I can just come up with an excuse or something. Maybe you had to see your parents for an emergency? I don't know, I'll think of something. It actually works perfectly so don't even worry. I'll be fine."

Minjeong listens to Jimin ramble with a small smile on her face. It grows the longer Jimin rants. Does she find Jimin's embarrassment amusing? Is this payback for being an ass earlier? Is she backing out so that Jimin has to do all the dirty work alone?

When Minjeong starts to chuckle, Jimin's about had it.

"Okay, what's so funny?" Jimin huffs as she crosses her arms.

"Sorry, I don't mean to laugh," Minjeong bites her lip. "It's just – I forgot how flustered you get when things don't go your way."

"And that's funny to you?"

"Hilarious," Minjeong's smile softens. "I asked if I can think about it because I've just applied for an internship."

Jimin frowns out of confusion, "Okay?"

"It takes place over Summer," Minjeong explains.

"Oh."

"Yeah," Minjeong adds. "The dates haven't been released yet but I want to keep my options open in case it's around the time of the wedding. There are like a hundred applicants every year and it's super hard to get selected so I probably won't even get chosen but – yeah. I'd rather be cautious than agreeing now and letting you down at the last minute."

"Okay yeah, of course," Jimin nods before giving her an encouraging smile. "You know, they'd be crazy not to pick you."

Minjeong turns bashful, "You don't even know what it's for."

"I don't need to," Jimin replies easily. "You're great at anything."

"Thanks," Minjeong blushes. "Don't go asking anyone else to be your date, not until I know for sure. Okay?"

"I wouldn't dream of it," Jimin assures her. "You're the best dancer I know anyway."

Minjeong's blush deepens and Jimin thinks she's never looked cuter. It's the best thing she's seen all day and she's so thankful that they were able to turn things around from before.

She's going to miss this.

"So I guess that settles it. The wedding is our new finish line," Jimin says. She hopes the building bittersweet feeling doesn't show in the way she meets Minjeong's gaze. "We can make things official after the wedding, whether or not you end up going."

Minjeong nods too, but she's as unreadable as ever.

"Unless you want out earlier?" Jimin offers, unsure of where Minjeong stands. "You can focus on your internship or things with Jake."

The latter makes Jimin want to gag, but she holds it together long enough for Minjeong to surprise her with another answer she wasn't expecting.

"I think he's had enough of my focus," Minjeong says dismissively.

Jimin's brows rise, "Wow. You sure he's not the love of your life?"

"I never thought he was," Minjeong averts her gaze. "Love isn't really a word I throw around, not unless I'm certain and I'm not certain about him anymore."

"Oh," Jimin blinks. She's kind of speechless.

"I guess I've been thinking about what you said at the Brainiacs' Ball," Minjeong mentions. "The thing about waiting on people to change. It just isn't happening, so I guess you're right. I'm wasting my time."

Jimin still doesn't know what to say upon hearing all this new information. She wants to ask what the defining moment was? Had something happened while she's been focusing on her own shit? A development like this doesn't just happen out of nowhere?

Or maybe it does? Maybe Minjeong needed the time away this week just as much as Jimin did?

"Well," Jimin attempts to lighten the mood. "Never thought I'd see the day you'd start listening to me."

Minjeong playfully rolls her eyes, "Sometimes your advice isn't all that bad."

Jimin puffs out her chest a little, thankful for the wave of confidence Minjeong's compliment brings. She's felt so uncertain and unsure for too long, it's nice to feel more like herself again.

Or maybe she's just quietly celebrating the victory that is Minjeong finally seeing the light! Either way, she's feeling a lot more at ease than before she arrived.

"Hey, you two!" Someone calls out to the couple. It's an older woman, one of the resident librarians and she stares at them with her hands on her hips. "I'm about to lock the doors so if you don't want to spend the night here, I suggest you get going."

"Sorry!" Minjeong apologizes sweetly before looking to Jimin. She keeps her voice down while she keeps an eye on the woman, "Let's go. She doesn't joke about locking us in. It's happened to me twice."

"What?" Jimin's eyes widen as she looks back at the disgruntled librarian. She definitely looks like the no-nonsense type so Jimin's quick to move, "Fuck that, let's get out of here."

The two hastily gather their things and make their exit all while the librarian watches them like a hawk. Jimin looks back just as they cross the threshold and the woman is right on their heels with her ring of keys in hand.

"Jesus. Is it that serious?" Jimin asks while the woman glares at the two through the glass door.

Minjeong shrugs, "I'm pretty sure she lives there."

Jimin only shakes her head at the lady while Minjeong tugs her along. She doesn't realize they're walking in the direction of her and Jaemin's place until about halfway through, probably too distracted by the way Minjeong hooks their arms together like it's something they've always done.

No one's around, so they don't really need to huddle so close but like...it is kind of cold and Jimin's only dressed in her cheer uniform since she ran out of practice so fast. When she cuddles into Minjeong's side – for warmth, obviously – the blonde doesn't mind one bit. In fact, she doesn't seem to even notice.

"You're walking me home?" Jimin asks although the answer is obvious. She just needed something to interrupt the silence.

"Sure," Minjeong says simply. "I kind of feel a little bad for making you run all the way to the library after your practice."

"Oh."

"Plus who's going to keep you warm?"

When Jimin looks to her side, she finds Minjeong smirking. Her eyes glance down to their arms and suddenly Jimin's cheeks start to burn.

"Sorry," Jimin mumbles and goes to loosen her hold. "I didn't have time to change."

"Don't be," Minjeong jokes before pulling Jimin back in. "I'm the reason why you didn't have time in the first place so I don't mind."

Jimin only nods and they continue walking with their arms hooked like that until they reach her building. It's something that they've done many times before, but this time feels a little different and Jimin isn't sure what it is.

She hesitates by the front door, watching Minjeong shift from side to side under the yellow glow of the street light above. Her chest tightens in a familiar way, like there's something left to do or say but she can't put her finger on what.

"Well goodnight, Jimin." There's a smile on Minjeong's face as she throws up her hand for a wave and begins to take a step back.

Jimin lifts her hand to wave back and it seems wrong as soon as she does it. Despite that, Jimin continues to watch Minjeong turn away. It's not until her back is to her that something clicks for Jimin.

"Wait!" She calls out and hurries down the small steps. Minjeong turns in an instant, looking to Jimin expectantly. "I—" Jimin pauses for a second.

It's like as soon as brown eyes find hers, all previous thoughts are lost. The only things she seems to remember are the feel of Minjeong's soft lips on hers, but that's not what she's here for.

"I forgot to tell you that I spoke with my friend earlier this week," Jimin remembers. She sees the curious look beginning to form and goes to clarify. "My friend that could help you with starting your own club. You know, if you wanted to see what your options are or whatever."

"Oh," Minjeong's smile is back to being bright. "And what did she say?"

"She's down to chat. I've got her number here," Jimin goes to take out her phone and Minjeong does the same. "I'll text it to you."

With a few clicks, the contact is sent over. As soon as Minjeong's phone chimes, her eyes widen upon what she finds.

"Son Wendy?" Minjeong gasps. "As in leader of the Troubletones?"

Jimin smirks, "Oh so you've heard of her and her little group then..."

"It's a pretty popular group, of course I've heard of her." Minjeong laughs in disbelief until her face falls with a realization. "Hang on, she wanted you to join her?"

Jimin goes to cross her arms, "Why do you sound so shocked?"

"Because I am!" Minjeong replies. "Why didn't you take her offer?"

"I told you why," Jimin dismisses. "This voice is only for my mom and Jesus. Plus, it's not really my thing. I didn't get into one of the best law schools in the country just to join a singing group."

"It's good to have hobbies," Minjeong suggests.

"I do have hobbies," Jimin protested. "Studying, cheer practice and you."

Minjeong rolls her eyes but it doesn't stop her from smiling as she takes a step closer to Jimin. The way Minjeong takes a moment to stare at her has Jimin suddenly feeling anxious. She picks at the strap of her duffle bag while Minjeong continues to look at her.

Jimin should've seen it coming when she finds Minjeong leaning in. In the blink of an eye, Minjeong's pressing the softest kiss to Jimin's cheek. It isn't like their usual quick pecks though, this time Minjeong lets her lips linger there for a second longer.

"Thank you for this."

Minjeong's voice comes out in a whisper as she pulls away but it's uncharacteristically gravely and the sound of it sends a shiver down Jimin's back. All she can do is stand impossibly still as Minjeong strokes the cheek she just kissed with her thumb. It's way too soft, way too intimate and it does nothing to help Jimin stomp the embers that refuse to fizzle out.

"No biggie," Jimin mumbles. She clears her throat and smiles through the embarrassingly giddy feeling in her chest, "That's what friends are for, right?"

"Yeah," Minjeong's smile softens as she steps back.

"Cool," Jimin goes to scratch the back of her neck. The jitters have her itching to fill the heavy silence developing between them. "Well, I gave Wendy a little backstory so she'll be waiting for your call."

"Okay great," Minjeong nods.

"Yeah. She's really interested in meeting up with you. She knows a little about the work you've done here since you transferred," Jimin adds. "She gets pretty passionate about women supporting women too so just be prepared for that I guess?"

Minjeong looks to her questioningly, "How do I do that?"

"I don't know," Jimin jokes. "But have fun figuring it out."

"Okay," Minjeong only smiles. "Well goodnight, Jimin."

"Night, Minjeong."

As they bid their goodbyes, Jimin hesitates again but this time it's only to watch Minjeong as she gets further and further away. Although she hates to dwell on it, she can still feel tingles on her cheek where Minjeong last kissed her.

─

Despite trying to get back on track and do right by Minjeong, Jimin finds herself in a particularly trying situation only a few days later while she and Jaemin are hanging out in the courtyard for lunch.

They're just minding their own business, talking their usual shit about whatever when Jake of all people comes walking into the courtyard. Jimin's thinking he must've lost his way when he suddenly beelines it for the duo.

"There you are!" He snaps.

Jaemin looks at Jimin with his brow raised and Jimin looks at him just as confused. Jake's as intimidating as a blowfly so are they meant to be afraid?

Meanwhile, Jake's fuming with his arms crossed and his face red hot.

"You found us. Great job!" Jimin cheers in faux excitement before her fake smile drops, "What do you want?"

"What do I want?" Jake scoffs. "Don't play coy with me. You're not that dumb."

Jimin frowns, looking as unimpressed as ever. Jaemin just looks back and forth between the two warily, still trying to figure out what's happening.

"Apparently I am," Jimin finally answers. "Because I have no idea what you're so pissed about."

"Of course you don't," Jake shakes his head. "All you care about is whatever benefits you."

Jimin's brows rise at the accusation but before she can call him out for his insane double standards, Jake starts up again.

"You know, everything was fine before you came into the picture," He tells her. "You just had to pick her, didn't you? Of all the girls at this school..."

"Okay, so this is about Minjeong then?" Jimin guesses.

"Obviously!" Jake shouts and it causes heads to turn their way.

"Dude, chill," Jaemin cuts in trying to diffuse the situation. "There's no reason to get loud."

"Don't tell me what to do!"

Jimin waves Jaemin off, "No it's okay, let him."

"Jimin," Jaemin frowns at her. "People are watching."

"It's fine. Jake clearly has something he needs to get off his scrawny chest," Jimin stares back at Jake challengingly. "If you want to come over here causing a scene and interrupting our lunch, you better make it worth my time because I'm not known for my patience especially when it comes to you."

Jake tenses his jaw, "Minjeong left the Brainiacs."

Jimin's brows rise – that's news to her, but it's also not all that surprising. She figures Minjeong must've spoken to Wendy already, but she's only guessing. Minjeong hasn't said a thing to her about any of this.

"Okay, and?" Jimin questions. "What does that have to do with me?"

"Are you kidding? It has everything to do with you!" Jake accuses loudly. "You must've said something to her to make her leave so suddenly. She's never expressed any desire to go until you showed up so what did you say to her?"

Jimin laughs, "I hate to break it to you, but I had nothing to do with that. Minjeong makes decisions all on her own."

"Bullshit," Jake dismisses. "You had a hand in this, I know you did. Ruining relationships just for the hell of it is so inherently you."

Jimin tenses her jaw. Maybe that was her before, but she's not that person now. She's changed, but she doubts Jake gives a crap about that. He's already made up his mind about Jimin and there's no changing it – even if his opinion of her is outdated.

"Correct me if I'm wrong but," Jimin pauses as she taps her finger to her chin in thought. "You two weren't even in a relationship to begin with so how could I ruin anything?"

"You know what I mean," Jake tells her. "The Brainiacs were our thing and now she's out, so I want to know what you said to her."

Jimin clenches her fists, "Did it ever occur to you that maybe she got sick of being surrounded by people who don't give a shit about her?"

"Then what's she doing with you?"

Jimin knows Jake's just pressing her buttons just to get a rise out of her, so she can't fall for it. She can't cause a scene because that's exactly what he wants. She'd play right into all the preconceived notions he has about her.

"I care about her more than you ever have," Jimin tells him. "Don't question that."

Jake scoffs, "It's not a coincidence that your claws are suddenly in Minjeong's back. There has to be a reason for it. Maybe you have her and everyone else on this campus fooled, but not me. I know something's going on."

"You sound a little crazy, man," Jaemin speaks up but Jimin stiffens at the uneasy feeling Jake's words evoke.

"Do I?" Jake challenges while he keeps his eye on Jimin. "You both never got along before, I know because Minjeong always complained to me about how you're so insufferable. Then all of a sudden you two are dating? That doesn't make sense. Minjeong's too pure, too impressionable to be hanging around the likes of you two."

Jimin narrows her eyes, she can feel herself heating up with anger. She can't let him continue picking everything apart, not when they've got an audience but she's too stunned at the moment to interrupt.

"Jaemin, I get," Jake glances to her best friend. "He's as dumb as a pile of bricks so the tutoring makes sense."

"Dude..." Jaemin frowns. "What the hell?"

"But you?" Jake focuses on Jimin again who's frighteningly silent. "You and Minjeong can't possibly have anything in common aside from your grades so what is it? You have some bet going on or something?"

"I don't have to explain shit to you," Jimin retorts. "Our relationship is our business."

"Whatever! You two don't seem to have any trouble flaunting your relationship for an audience. You've even had Sooyoung write articles about it, so why can't I ask a question?" Jake demands. "Is it because you're hiding something?"

Jimin glares despite her heart racing at the accusation.

"Alright dude," Jaemin stands and he edges his way between Jake and Jimin. "You've got to go. You're being a real asshole and it's not cool."

Jake doesn't move and Jimin stares back just as fiercely. She can't keep quiet much longer, she can't have him believing his words carry any weight to them – even if they kind of do. But she can't stand the way he speaks about Minjeong, like she's some insolent child that doesn't know any better, like she can't think for herself.

"You have got to give her more credit than that," Jimin tells him. "You think she's some helpless girl but you're wrong. Minjeong is a way better judge of character than you realize, it's probably why she's finally kicked your sorry ass to the curb. If there's anyone to blame here, it's you."

"Me? Please, I– "

"Just stop," Jimin holds up her hand. "This was fun until about five minutes ago. Now you're just pissing me off. How deluded can you be? Honestly, Jake, do you really think Minjeong is incapable of making her own decisions? The girl who was named Most Brilliant Brainiac? You think I'm the one pulling her strings?"

Jake doesn't have anything to say, so Jimin keeps going.

"Like I said before, Minjeong leaving your little club has nothing to do with me," Jimin insists. "She's a big girl, she makes her own decisions. I'm just here to be supportive of her. Sorry if you don't understand that, I know how you love to be in control of everything. You need to start accepting the fact that she's not stuck under your thumb anymore. She's starting to see what kind of person you truly are."

Jake falters and that makes Jimin smile.

"You have a lot to say about me and Minjeong's dynamic," Jimin adds. "And you've got a lot to say about me and how I'm this horrible person but the insane thing about it all is that I'm really not – you are."

"What?" Jake sputters. "How?"

"Well, let's take a closer look at your so-called friendship," She lectures. "Let's talk about how you belittle Minjeong any chance you get, how you make her feel worse when she's already down. This is a friend we're talking about."

Jake shifts uncomfortably.

"Let's talk about how you do anything you can to dim her light just so you can be the shiniest nerd in the room. Let's talk about that?" Jimin continues. "How insecure do you have to be to do something so fucked up to the kindest person in the world? And all in the name of caring about her? Give me a fucking break."

Jake shrinks back even further. All that confidence he came in with is quickly fleeting.

"You're so used to hiding behind people who kiss your ass all day that you've forgotten that not everyone thinks the sun shines out of your ass," Jimin tells him. "Outside your little circle, no one gives a shit about you or your trivia stats."

"That's not what they're called," Jake tries to correct.

"I don't give a fuck," Jimin laughs. "That's my point. None of it matters when you suck."

Jake rolls his eyes but he stays quiet.

"It's hilarious how you've come over here huffing and puffing trying to point a finger at me and make me the villain when you're really the one who fucked up a good thing with Minjeong," Jimin shakes her head and laughs. "I'm not going to be your scapegoat. You lost her because you're a shitty person."

Jaemin's brows rise as he looks to Jimin. There's an impressed look on his face, but Jimin's only focused on Jake. She's hoping that her words are cutting him deeply, striking every nerve like he tried doing to her. Minjeong's not around this time to hold her back.

"You should consider yourself lucky," Jimin notes. "You should count every one of your blessings because this beautiful, brilliant girl – she gave you every chance and you still managed to fuck up every single one." Jimin shakes her head in thought, "You had the most perfect girl in the palm of your hand and you treated her like shit. You only realize it now because she's gone. That's how undeserving you are of her."

Jake looks taken aback but instead of tucking his tail and running, he tries taking another shot at Jimin. Typical narcissist, doing everything he can to direct the fault elsewhere.

"Like you're doing any better?" He questions. "Like you're any more deserving? The way you recycle girls, you have no room to talk."

"You're right," Jimin says honestly. "Minjeong deserves so much more than I can give her."

Jake starts to smirk, thinking he's regained the upper hand. Her words have Jaemin whipping his head around to stare at her in disbelief.

"But at least I'm trying to be a better person," Jimin clarifies. "At least I'm doing everything I can to keep her around for as long as she'll have me. At least I know a good thing when I see it."

Jimin can feel Jaemin's eyes lingering on her, but she doesn't waver under his gaze. She speaks truthfully and it should frighten her how honest she's being but it doesn't. Not when Jake is attempting to speak on how she feels about Minjeong. He doesn't know a thing and she has no trouble putting him in his place.

"Being with her is a privilege and you'll never get to experience that," Jimin tells him with a kind of finality. "Just something to think about the next time you try blaming someone else for your fuck-ups. It might be a good idea to start holding yourself accountable, because what you tried to do here...it's kind of embarrassing."

Jake doesn't say anything. He just tightens his jaw and gives her and Jaemin one last glare before making his exit. Jimin flips him off as he leaves, so annoyed by his interruption but relieved that he's finally fucked off.

Now she can get back to her lunch and try to find some kind of peace after all that. She's slow to pick up her fork again though with how Jaemin's still staring at her. She glances at him with her brow raised, waiting for him to say something but he doesn't.

"What?" Jimin questions a little too aggressively. She's still riding on the high of arguing with Jake, but the familiar uneasiness is still there. "Was I too much of a bitch? If you say yes then you're gonna have to sit somewhere else because I don't want to hear it. The fucker had it coming and I've been dying to put him in his place."

"It's not that," Jaemin chuckles. "I'm all for it. That guy is a douchebag."

"Okay then, what's with the face?"

"How much of that was an act?" Jaemin asks and Jimin's taken aback by the seriousness of his voice. "And how much of that was actually you talking?"

Jimin looks at him cautiously, "What are you getting at?"

"Just answer the question."

"Does it matter?"

"Kind of," Jaemin shrugs. "Some of the things you said about Minjeong– I don't know. Jake's a dick and all but I've never heard you stick up for her like that before. I've never really heard you stick up for anyone like that before."

Jimin starts to feel a little nervous.

She hasn't forgotten about her secrets begging to be heard, but she can't entertain those hopeful thoughts by confiding in her best friend. She remembers what he asked of her the night of Johnny's party, she doesn't need him pushing for things she knows can't happen.

"We're friends," Jimin insists. "I wasn't going to let him run his mouth about her or our relationship."

"Your fake relationship."

"Obviously," Jimin replies. "All these people around, no way I was going to let him talk shit."

Jaemin nods and he pauses for a moment before asking, "Do you really think you're undeserving?"

Jimin swallows thickly and lies, "It was just something I said in the moment. No need trying to read between the lines. I just said whatever to make my point."

Jaemin doesn't look convinced.

"And the thing about keeping her around?" He asks. "What does that mean?"

"Nothing! The plan is still the plan, Jaemin," Jimin assures him. "Turn in our assignment then break up after the wedding. We're halfway there."

"Oh, so it's after the wedding now?"

Jimin assures him, "Yes, after the wedding."

"What's changed?"

It's taking everything in Jimin not to crack and it seems like Jaemin is doing everything he can to break her, but she's a seasoned pro. Some incessant questioning isn't going to get the job done, it's only going to annoy her.

"Grandma's gotten attached," Jimin explains. "If we break up out of the blue then this will probably have the opposite effect, everyone would kick my ass. Minjeong and I, we didn't account for my entire family falling in love with her so it's a little more complicated. I'm not the only one that she's breaking up with now, my family is involved too."

"Your family, right."

"Stop," Jimin looks unamused despite the way her heart beats a little faster. "I told you before, there's nothing going on so quit making it weird. Minjeong and I are just friends so cut it out!"

Jaemin raises his hands in defense, "I'm just making observations, damn!"

"Well quit," Jimin huffs. "I don't need a third opinion. Alright? This shit is hard enough as it is."

Jaemin finally backs off, "Okay chill. I was just messing with you. You and Minjeong are cool together. Can't blame me for hoping that it's a little real too."

"Yeah," Jimin shrugs him off as she sits in her thoughts.

You and me both.

____

i love jimin's character development so much! AND WHY R THEY EXTRA SOFT IN THIS CHAPTER?? even though they did have a fight but god after the fight, they have my heart i love them AND THE CHEEK KISS PLEASE

anw hope you guys enjoyed! upvote and comment for faster update! <3 really appreciate it if you does! <3 let me know if there's any mistake!