Brother's Keeper || K.NJ

Ch 22: Apartment

I approached my parents, the nervous flutter in my stomach threatening to give away my secret. "Hey, Mom, and Dad, can we talk?" I hesitated, glancing between them.

My mother looked up from her book, and my father lowered the newspaper. "Sure, Jiah, what's on your mind?" he asked, his eyes filled with warmth.

Taking a deep breath, I began weaving my carefully crafted tale. "Well, you know Minji, right? She invited me to spend the weekend at her place. It's been a while since we hung out, and I thought it would be nice."

My mother smiled, while my father raised an eyebrow. "Oh, that sounds lovely, dear. But isn't it a bit sudden?" my father inquired.

I nodded, feigning casualness. "Yeah, it kinda is, but we've been planning it for a while. I just didn't mention it earlier. It's this weekend, and I want to go."

After a brief exchange of glances, my parents sighed in unison. "Alright, Jiah. You're old enough to make your decisions. Just keep us posted, okay?" my mother said, her tone a mix of understanding and concern.

I couldn't believe my luck – they were buying my story. "Thanks, you two! I promise I'll let you know how it goes," I replied, relief washing over me.

With their blessing secured, I hung up the phone and dialed Minji and Yuna. "Guess what? They bought it! I'm all set to spend the weekend at Namjoon's place with you guys," I exclaimed, unable to contain my excitement.

Minji's voice crackled through the line. "Wow, Jiah, you're a genius! This plan is foolproof."

Yuna chimed in, "Just enjoy your time with Namjoon. You deserve it.

Later that evening, I called Namjoon. "Hey, I can make it this weekend. Can't wait to see you," I said, trying to keep my voice steady.

Namjoon chuckled on the other end. "Finally, Jiah! I've been looking forward to this. We'll have an amazing time together."

As our conversation continued, Namjoon teased me with playful suggestions about our weekend plans. "We can try that new restaurant you mentioned, watch movies all night, and maybe even dance a little," he said, his voice dripping with anticipation.

I laughed, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. "Sounds perfect. I can't wait."

I couldn't hold in my excitement. Despite sneaking around with Namjoon, I couldn't help but not be close to him, all because of my silly crush on him.

***

The week had crawled by, each day dragging on as if time itself had decided to take a stroll. But finally, the calendar flipped to Friday, the day I had been eagerly anticipating. Today was the day I would spend the entire weekend at Namjoon's apartment with my best friends.

I spent the morning packing some essentials, carefully choosing clothes, and folding them neatly into my suitcase. Carrying my bags downstairs, I found my mother in the kitchen, a worried expression on her face. She warned me to take care of myself and to behave well with Minji.

"Don't forget, Jiah, behave yourself and listen to Minji. And call me if you need anything," my mother cautioned.

"I'll be okay, Mom. Minji and I will take care of each other," I assured her as I grabbed a quick breakfast.

Just as I finished, I heard Yuna's car honking outside. My mother walked me to the door, and there, in the car, were Minji and Yuna, ready for the weekend adventure. Minji assured my mother, "Don't worry, Mrs. Jung, I'll make sure Jiah is in safe hands."

I hopped into the car, and Yuna drove off. However, instead of heading to Minji's house, she steered towards Namjoon's apartment. The excitement bubbled inside me as I realized the weekend was about to begin.

Throughout the drive, we chatted about our plans. Yuna, always the planner, suggested places Namjoon and I could visit and activities we could do together. The anticipation built with each passing mile.

When we arrived at Namjoon's apartment, Yuna, Minji and I carried our bags up to his room. Namjoon opened the door, surprised to find not just me but my friends too. We entered, and Yuna and Minji couldn't help but look around, admiring his room.

Yuna, with a playful smile, warned Namjoon, "Take good care of Jiah this weekend, okay? She's in your hands now."

Minji chimed in, "Yeah, and if you don't, you'll have us to answer to."

Namjoon assured them, "Don't worry. I'll make sure she has a great time, including you guys as well."

Yuna told me that she and Minji had to head off to the pharmacy to get something and that they'll be back after a few hours. As Yuna and Minji hugged me goodbye, Namjoon greeted me with a warm hug, expressing his gratitude for me coming over. "Thanks for making the trip. I'm really glad you're here," he said.

They left, and as soon as the door closed, Namjoon and I were alone. He hugged me tightly, and in that embrace, he let out a deep sigh, making me chuckle.

"What was that for?" I asked.

"Just expressing how happy I am that you're here," he replied with a grin.

Namjoon took the initiative to carry my bags to the room as I walked around, taking in the details of his apartment. The weekend lay ahead, a canvas of possibilities waiting to be painted with moments we'd treasure.

As we settled in, Namjoon looked at me and said, "So, any specific plans, or should we go with the flow?"

I smiled, "Let's go with the flow. Surprise me."

And so, the weekend unfolded, a tapestry woven with laughter, shared stories, and stolen glances.

The long hug at the beginning of the weekend turned into many more throughout our time together, each one filled with unspoken emotions.