Tripped |Jikook/Kookmin

Against Red

Jimin's apartment was suffused with the soft glow of dimmed lights, creating a cozy ambiance as he prepared for Taemin's visit. Dressed casually, his soft blonde hair falling gracefully over his forehead, he was busy checking the ingredients for their dinner. Jimin had confidence in his cooking skills, but as a backup plan, he had the number of a nearby restaurant just in case.

As he was arranging things, the melodious chime of the doorbell echoed through the apartment, and a servant rushed to greet the visitor. True to his reputation, Taemin arrived dressed impeccably, not too formal, and not too casual – it was the perfect balance. In one hand, he held a bouquet of lilies, and in the other, a mysterious basket. Jimin couldn't help but wonder about its contents.

"Hey, Jiminah," Taemin greeted him, his tone gentle and slightly sheepish. Taemin had always been known for his respectful flirtation, and the thought made Jimin chuckle, his cheeks turning a delicate shade of red.

"Jiminie," Taemin continued with a cautious expression, observing Jimin's reaction with a smile that caused his eyes to crinkle. Jimin felt flustered but delighted by the compliment.

Taemin presented the bouquet of lilies to Jimin, who accepted it graciously, and he warmly invited Taemin inside. While Jimin fetched a vase for the flowers, Taemin placed the mysterious basket on the kitchen counter.

"I thought we could have a little picnic on your balcony," Taemin suggested, revealing neatly cut fruit salad, fresh juices, snacks, and even fairy lights. Jimin couldn't contain his surprise.

"What are these for, Taemin-ah?" Jimin asked, and Taemin, momentarily flustered, scratched the back of his neck sheepishly. "I thought they might create a nice atmosphere. I did some research on Pinterest for a picnic-style date..." Taemin paused, realizing his slip of the tongue, but Jimin's understanding and reassuring response put him at ease.

Jimin revealed his cooking efforts, with onions spread across the counter, simmering gravy on the stove with chicken, and a pot of rice, aromatic with cinnamon, star anise, and cloves. Nostalgia colored his voice as he mentioned how he'd set cooking aside when he became busy with the company.

"This smells sooo good, Jiminie! I can't wait to taste it," Taemin exclaimed, his enthusiasm erasing Jimin's lingering insecurities. Jimin's shoulders perked up at Taemin's words, feeling encouraged.

"I can help with setting up the place, Jiminie. I might not be great at cooking, but I can certainly assist with the side work. Just tell me what to do, and I'll be at your service," Taemin declared, bowing dramatically. As Jimin struggled with the hot pot of rice, Taemin swiftly took oven mitts and offered his help.

"Silly, let me handle this. You focus on the main work. I can at least manage the side tasks, and I'm not that useless in the kitchen," Taemin said with a warm smile, showing his willingness to support Jimin in this delightful evening they were about to share.

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Their impromptu balcony picnic turned out to be a resounding success. Jimin found himself pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to talk to Taemin. He marveled at their effortless conversations, appreciating that Taemin had always been considerate and made him feel entirely comfortable. It was a reassuring sign of the progress they were making, and Jimin felt optimistic about the possibility of forming a meaningful friendship.

As they stood by the entrance, Taemin looked at Jimin with fondness, preparing to leave. He couldn't resist praising Jimin's cooking once again. "Thank you so much for the most delicious food I've had in a while. And I'm not exaggerating. Don't be surprised if I stop by often just to enjoy your homemade meals," Taemin commented, the sincerity in his eyes dispelling any doubts Jimin might have had. Jimin couldn't help but palm his face in embarrassment, though he chose to believe Taemin's words.