𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐘 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐏𝐒 | Vminkook ff [COMPLETED]

Chapter Thirty-Two

Leaves gently rustled next to Jimin's feet as he strolled along the pathway, made of carefully placed cobblestones. As he turned his head, a breeze fluttered his hair which was blond except for the last essence of pink holding onto the ends. His gaze travelled over the lush, meticulously landscaped gardens sprawling around the tall, ornate buildings which stood as pillars of knowledge; their facades covered with intricate carvings that hinted at a rich history. Passing blooming flowers, the sweet, fragrance enchanted his senses.

Students with purposeful strides moved between classes, their vibrant conversations intermingling with the occasional rustle of pages being turned in quiet corners. Others sat in the ample shade of stately trees, with their arms around each other and a book or two on the grass. A soft melody drifted from a nearby hall, where a pianist's fingers danced across the keys, filling the air with a harmonious melody.

Taking in the sight, Jimin felt as if he has been transported into the realm of cherished memories created on the campus's ground. The fusion of nature's tranquillity, architectural splendour, and the vibrant pulse of student life created a tapestry that wove together the past and present. Jimin's footsteps echoed along the cobblestones, a rhythmic echo of the countless individuals who had traversed these same paths before him.

While making his way up the hill, his eyes locked on the grass next to the water fountain. To others, it is nothing more than a patch of grass, but to Jimin, it was tied to a moment of many years ago. On the grass there once was a blanket and a picnic basket. Sitting on it were three young gentlemen who kissed each other for the first time in front of their fellow students, choosing not to worry anymore about what others might think or say about their unique three-way love.

Arriving at the top of the hill, Jimin's gaze fell on the brunette sitting on the bench, a serene backdrop of the university campus stretching behind them. He watched the brunette's hair gracefully dance with the breeze as he approached the bench, the sunlight casting a warm glow on his features. "Tae," Jimin called. A soft smile graced the brunette's lips as he recognized Jimin's voice, a mixture of familiarity and fondness in their eyes. He turned his head to look at Jimin, acknowledging his presence.

"Hey," Taehyung greeted and indicated Jimin to sit next to him, "Thank you for meeting me."

Jimin settled onto the bench, leaving a noticeable gap between them. "You said you wanted to talk to me."

Taehyung gave a nod of confirmation before he began, "Jungkook told me about the talk you two had in your apartment and the kiss... I'm happy you and Jungkook are back together, truly."

"Thank you," Jimin said, appreciating how genuine and honest Taehyung was being.

"Jimin, I want you to know as Jungkook said, I also didn't stop loving you after we discovered you cheated... I honour him for having the strength to forgive what you did and leave it in the past. I can't seem to do the same even though I want to, because... I need to know why and how something like that happens."

Jimin redirected his gaze to his lap, breaking eye contact with Taehyung, as he started to fiddle with his fingers.

"I know I've asked you before and you didn't have an answer. I was hoping you have one now."

"Yeah, I do have an answer now, but... it's embarrassing," Jimin admitted, showing his hesitation.

"I'm not going to judge, only listen," Taehyung reassured. "Please tell me. I believe I deserve to know the answer to my question."

Jimin's chest rose as he inhaled deeply before he began, avoiding eye contact. "I used to think my parents did a great job raising me. They provided everything I needed - food, clothes, an education, and a roof over my head and for that, I'm forever grateful. But then I discussed my childhood with Dr Kim and he helped me see that my parents weren't as great as I thought."