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Who (Are You)?

Summary:

In the heart of Seoul, Park Jimin is a dedicated high school music teacher. Despite his success and the fulfillment he finds in his work, Jimin feels an emptiness he can't quite explain. His heart yearns for a love he's never found, constantly searching for the perfect girl who seems to exist only in his dreams. By his side through thick and thin is Min Yoongi, a talented but introverted piano tuner and composer. Yoongi's meticulous nature and deep understanding of music make him Jimin's go-to person for advice and support. He is the calming presence in Jimin's chaotic life, always ready to lend a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on. Yet, despite their deep bond, Jimin has never considered Yoongi as anything more than a friend.

As Jimin continues his fruitless search for the right girl, he starts to notice the little things about Yoongi - the way his smile reaches his eyes, the comfort in his touch, and the unspoken support that feels like home. These realizations come slowly, masked by years of friendship and the societal norms that have always guided his expectations.

Is Jimin searching at the right place for love... or that love's been there right in front of his eyes?

Notes:

Hey there lovelies! <3

This is my new Yoonminverse. I hope you like it. <3

xoxo,
Ari

Chapter 1: Prologue

Chapter Text

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

The early morning sun filtered through the curtains of Jimin's small but cozy apartment, casting a warm glow over the cluttered space. Sheet music was scattered across the dining table, mingling with empty coffee cups and pencils. Jimin sat at the edge of his bed, pulling on his socks, his mind already at the school where he taught music to teenagers. Despite the fulfillment he found in his work, Jimin couldn't shake the persistent emptiness that lingered in his chest. His friends often teased him about his romantic ideals, his constant search for the perfect girl who seemed to exist only in his dreams. Yet, no matter how many dates he went on, he never felt the spark he longed for.

He grabbed his bag, stuffing his phone and a few loose papers inside, and headed out the door. As he walked down the familiar streets of Seoul, his thoughts drifted to Yoongi. They had been friends since college, their bond built over a mutual love for music. Yoongi, a talented but introverted piano tuner and composer, had always been Jimin's rock. Whenever Jimin needed advice or support, Yoongi was there, offering a quiet strength that grounded him.

"Morning, Jimin-ah!" A cheerful voice called out, snapping him out of his reverie. Jimin turned to see Mrs. Kim, his elderly neighbor, tending to her small garden.

"Good morning, Mrs. Kim," Jimin replied with a warm smile. "Your flowers are looking beautiful as always."

"Thank you, dear. Have a great day at school," she said, waving him off.

As Jimin continued his walk, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out to see a message from Yoongi.

[Yoongi]: Coffee after school?

Jimin's lips curved into a smile. Coffee with Yoongi was a familiar ritual, a comfort amidst the daily grind. He quickly typed a reply.

[me]: Sounds perfect, hyung. Usual place?

[Yoongi]: See you there.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of classes and music. Jimin loved seeing his students' faces light up when they finally mastered a difficult piece or discovered a new favorite song. Still, there was an undercurrent of longing that he couldn't ignore, a feeling that something was missing.

After school, Jimin made his way to the small café where he and Yoongi often met. The café was a hidden gem, tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, its walls lined with old records and vintage posters. Yoongi was already there, sitting at their usual table by the window, a notebook open in front of him and a cup of coffee steaming beside it.

"Hey, hyungie," Jimin greeted as he slid into the seat opposite Yoongi.

"Hey, Jimin-ah" Yoongi replied, looking up with a small smile. "How was your day?"

"Busy, but good," Jimin said, taking a sip of his coffee. "I've been thinking a lot about... well, everything. My students, music, life... and love."

Yoongi's gaze softened. "Still searching for the perfect girl?"

Jimin sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Yeah, but I don't know. Sometimes it feels like I'm chasing a ghost. Maybe I'm just too picky."

"Or maybe," Yoongi said carefully, "you're looking in the wrong place."

Jimin frowned slightly, the weight of Yoongi's words sinking in. "What do you mean?"

Yoongi hesitated, then shrugged. "I just think that sometimes, we overlook what's right in front of us."

There was a moment of silence as Jimin considered this. He had always valued Yoongi's insights, but this one left him feeling strangely unsettled. Before he could dwell on it, Yoongi changed the subject, asking about Jimin's latest project at school, and the conversation shifted to more familiar ground. Yet, as they talked and laughed over their coffee, Jimin couldn't shake the feeling that Yoongi's words held a deeper truth, one he wasn't ready to face just yet.

As the evening drew near, Jimin found himself standing in front of the mirror, adjusting his shirt for the third time. Tonight, he had a date with Soojin, one of Taehyung's colleagues from work. She was nice and soft-spoken, good-looking and a tad bit shorter than him. Their first date had been pleasant, and Jimin couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope. Maybe this time, things would be different. He took a deep breath and grabbed his phone, sending a quick message to Yoongi.

[me]: Heading out for my date with Soojin. Wish me luck!

He waited for a moment, but no reply came. Yoongi was usually quick to respond, but Jimin brushed it off, assuming he was busy with work. With one last glance in the mirror, he headed out the door. Soojin had chosen a quaint little restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. When Jimin arrived, she was already waiting outside, looking lovely in a simple dress.

"Hi, Soojin-ah," Jimin greeted with a smile. "You look great."

"Hi, Jimin-ah. You too," she replied, her smile warm and genuine.

They were shown to their table, and as they settled in, the conversation flowed easily. They talked about their interests, their work, and shared a few laughs over stories from their past. Soojin's soft-spoken nature and gentle demeanor put Jimin at ease. He found himself genuinely enjoying her company, and the evening passed by in a pleasant blur. After dinner, they decided to take a walk-through a nearby park. The night air was cool and refreshing, and the park was beautifully lit by lanterns, casting a soft glow over the paths. As they walked, Soojin talked about her love for photography and how she enjoyed capturing moments that often went unnoticed.

"Like this one," she said, stopping to snap a picture of the lanterns reflecting in a small pond. "It's the little things that make life beautiful."

Jimin smiled, appreciating her perspective. "I couldn't agree more."

They continued their walk, the conversation growing more personal. Soojin shared her dreams and fears, and Jimin found himself opening up about his struggles with finding the right person.

"It's hard sometimes," he admitted. "Feeling like you're always searching but never quite finding what you're looking for."

Soojin nodded, her expression understanding. "I think we all feel that way at times. But maybe it's about being patient and letting things unfold naturally."

Her words resonated with Jimin, and he felt a sense of calm wash over him. As the night came to an end, he walked Soojin to her car, feeling hopeful about where things might go.

"Thank you for tonight, Soojin. I had a really good time," he said, smiling.

"Me too, Jimin. Let's do this again sometime," she replied, her eyes twinkling with a hint of excitement.

As he watched her drive away, Jimin's heart felt lighter. He pulled out his phone and typed a quick message to Yoongi.

[me]: Just got back from my date with Soojin. It went really well. I think I like her.

He sent the message and waited, but once again, there was no reply. A pang of disappointment tugged at him, but he brushed it off. Yoongi was probably busy or already asleep. Back in his apartment, Jimin tried to focus on the positive. He liked Soojin, and the date had gone well. Yet, as he lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, he couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something was missing. His thoughts drifted to Yoongi, and he wondered why his friend's silence bothered him so much.

 

 

Unbeknownst to Jimin, Yoongi sat in his own apartment, staring at his phone. He had seen Jimin's messages, each one stirring a mix of emotions he struggled to keep in check. He wanted to be happy for his friend, but the ache in his chest made it hard to breathe. He set his phone aside, unable to bring himself to respond, and buried his feelings deep, hoping that time would dull the pain.

On the next day, after he had done with his job, Min Yoongi was sitting in his dimly lit apartment, the only sounds being the soft hum of his laptop and the occasional sigh that escaped his lips. He had seen and read Jimin's message multiple times and, though he was genuinely happy for his friend, a pang of jealousy and sadness twisted in his chest. He knew he couldn't continue like this, brooding alone with his thoughts. His phone buzzed with a new message. It was from Hoseok, one of his oldest friends, who had been trying to get him out of the house for weeks.

[Hoba]: Yoongi, come on, hyung. Let's go out tonight. You need a break!

Yoongi hesitated, his fingers hovering over the keyboard. He knew Hoseok was right. Being alone only made him dwell more on Jimin and his blossoming romance with Soojin. With a resigned sigh, he replied.

[Yoongi]: Alright. Where are we going?

[Hoba]: Yes! Meet me at the usual spot at 8. We'll figure it out from there.

At precisely 8 PM, Yoongi found himself at their favorite bar, a cozy place tucked away from the main streets of Seoul. Hoseok was already there, waiting with a wide grin.

"There he is!" Hoseok exclaimed, clapping Yoongi on the back. "I knew you'd come around."

Yoongi managed a small smile. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just get a drink."

They settled into a corner booth, ordering their usual drinks. The bar was filled with life, a welcome distraction from Yoongi's troubled thoughts. As they sipped their drinks, Hoseok launched into a story about his latest dance project. Despite himself, Yoongi found comfort in Hoseok's lively presence. They laughed and joked, the weight on Yoongi's shoulders lifting slightly with each passing moment. Still, Jimin's message lingered in the back of his mind, a constant reminder of the feelings he struggled to hide.

After a few rounds, Hoseok leaned back, studying Yoongi carefully. "You know, you don't have to pretend with me. I can tell something's been bothering you."

Yoongi sighed, running his hand through his hair. "It's complicated, Hoba. I'm trying to be happy for him, but it's hard."

"You mean Jimin?" Hoseok asked, his tone gentle.

Yoongi nodded, staring into his drink. "Yeah. He's dating this girl, Soojin. She's great, and I'm glad he's found someone, but..."

"But it's not what you wanted," Hoseok finished for him.

"Exactly," Yoongi admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I can't help but think about what could have been if…"

Hoseok reached across the table, giving Yoongi's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Look, hyung, I know you care about him. But you need to remember that Jimin is straight and he is a serial dater. He's always jumping from one girl to the next, hoping each one will be 'the one.'"

Yoongi frowned, shaking his head. "Jimin's not a serial dater. He's just... too romantic. He genuinely believes in finding his true love. He's always been like this, as far back as I can remember."

Hoseok sighed, his expression softening. "I get that. But you can't let him hurt you like this. You deserve better than to be stuck in this cycle, always hoping and never getting anywhere."

Yoongi looked down, the weight of Hoseok's words sinking in. "I know, Hoba. But what choice do I have? I can't just walk away from him. I want to be in Jimin's life, even if it's just as a friend."

Hoseok's eyes softened with understanding. "I know it's hard, hyung. But you need to take care of yourself too. Promise me you won't let this consume you."

Yoongi nodded, appreciating Hoseok's concern. "I promise. Thanks, Hoba.”

"Anytime," Hoseok replied with a smile. "Now, let's get another drink and enjoy the night. No more sad thoughts, okay?"

For the rest of the evening, Yoongi allowed himself to be swept up in the moment, laughing and talking with Hoseok and a few other friends who joined them. The bar's nice atmosphere and his friends' company provided a much-needed escape from his heartache.

The next morning, Yoongi woke up with a slight headache, a reminder of the previous night's drinks and conversations. He rubbed his temples and reached for his phone, noting a missed call and several messages from Jimin.

[Jimin]: Morning! Can we meet up later? I have so much to tell you about my date with Soojin. Call me when you wake up!

Yoongi sighed, the heaviness in his chest returning. He loved Jimin dearly, but hearing about his newfound happiness with Soojin was a bitter pill to swallow. Still, he couldn't deny his friend the joy of sharing his excitement. With a deep breath, he called Jimin back.

"Hey, Jimin-ah," Yoongi greeted, trying to put some cheer into his voice.

"Yoongi-hyung! Good morning!" Jimin's voice was bright and full of enthusiasm. "Can we meet at the café? I need to tell you everything about last night."

"Sure, I'll be there in an hour," the elder agreed, pushing aside his own feelings for the sake of his friend.

At the café, Jimin was already waiting at their usual table by the window, a broad smile on his face. As Yoongi approached, he couldn't help but notice the sparkle in Jimin's eyes.

"Hyung, you won't believe how amazing last night was," Jimin started, hardly waiting for Yoongi to sit down. "Soojin and I had such a great time. She's so easy to talk to, and she really understands me. I think she might be the one."

Yoongi listened quietly, nodding in the right places, his heart aching with each word. He sipped his coffee, the bitter taste matching his mood. Jimin's happiness was palpable, and Yoongi couldn't bring himself to dampen it with his own inner struggles.

But Jimin, caught up in his excitement, suddenly noticed Yoongi's silence. He paused, his brow furrowing with concern. "Yoongi-hyung, you've been really quiet. Is everything okay?"

Yoongi forced a smile, masking the storm of emotions inside. "I'm fine, Jimin-ah. Just a bit tired, that's all."

Jimin looked at him for a moment, as if trying to read between the lines, but then he seemed to accept the explanation. "Okay, if you say so. Anyway, Soojin and I are planning our next date this weekend. I think I'll take her to that new art exhibit downtown. She loves art."

Yoongi nodded again, maintaining his facade. "That sounds like a great idea. She'll love it."

Jimin continued to talk about his plans with Soojin, his excitement filling the air. Yoongi listened, his heart heavy but his expression unchanged. He knew Jimin needed his support, and he was determined to give it, no matter how much it hurt. As the conversation went on, Yoongi's mind drifted to Hoseok's words from the night before. He knew he couldn't keep doing this to himself, but he also couldn't bear the thought of losing Jimin. The duality of his feelings tore at him, but he resolved to stay strong.

When they parted ways, Yoongi walked home with a heavy heart. He had chosen to remain by Jimin's side, even if it meant enduring the pain of unrequited love. It was a choice he made willingly, out of his deep affection for his friend. Yet, as he walked through the busy streets of Seoul, Yoongi couldn't help but wonder if he would ever find the courage to tell Jimin the truth. For now, he would continue to be the supportive friend Jimin needed, hoping that one day, things might change. But for now, Yoongi would face each day, masking his heartache with a smile, and finding solace in the moments they shared together, no matter how fleeting or painful they might be.

Yoongi tried to be close to Jimin, even if it hurt him inside. He wanted to be Jimin's best friend, his confidante, the person he could always rely on. Despite the growing ache in his heart, he found solace in their friendship, in being the constant presence Jimin could turn to. Yoongi wanted nothing more than to see the younger man happy, even if that happiness seemed always just out of reach.

Two months passed, and the inevitable happened. Jimin's relationship with Soojin ended, leaving him heartbroken and desperate. Yoongi was there for him, just as he always had been, ready to pick up the pieces. One rainy evening, Jimin showed up at Yoongi's apartment, drenched and shivering. Without a word, Yoongi pulled him inside, handing him a towel and a dry shirt.

"Jimin-ah, what happened?" Yoongi asked gently, concern obvious on his face.

Jimin's eyes were red and puffy, his expression a mix of sorrow and frustration. "It’s over, hyung. Soojin and I... we broke up."

Yoongi's heart ached at the sight of his friend in pain, but he kept his voice steady. "I'm so sorry, Jimin-ah. Come on, sit down and tell me what happened."

They sat on the couch, and Jimin recounted the story between sobs. "We just... we weren't right for each other. I thought she was the one, but we kept arguing about the smallest things. She said I was too idealistic, always looking for some perfect love that doesn't exist."

Yoongi listened, his own feelings pushed aside. He wrapped his arm around Jimin's shoulders, offering silent comfort as Jimin poured out his heart.

"I don't understand, hyung," Jimin continued, his voice breaking. "Why can't I find the right girl? Am I doing something wrong?"

Yoongi shook his head, squeezing Jimin's shoulder reassuringly. "No, Jimin-ah. You're not doing anything wrong. Love is complicated, and finding the right person takes time. It doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you."

Jimin leaned into Yoongi's embrace, his sobs gradually subsiding. "I just... I want to find someone who understands me, who loves me for who I am. Why is that so hard?"

Yoongi's heart broke a little more with each word, but he kept his tone gentle. "You will, Jimin-ah. I know you will. Sometimes, the right person is closer than we think, but we just don't see it right away."

Jimin looked up at Yoongi, a flicker of hope in his eyes. "Do you really think so?"

"I do," Yoongi answered, his voice firm. "You deserve to be loved, Jimin-ah. And you'll find someone who sees how amazing you are."

For the rest of the night, Yoongi stayed by Jimin's side, comforting him and reassuring him that things would get better. He listened as Jimin cried about his failed relationship. It hurt to see Jimin in pain, but Yoongi was determined to be there for him, no matter how much it cost him emotionally. And as days turned into weeks, Jimin slowly started to heal. Yoongi was his constant shoulder to lean on, the support he needed. They spent countless hours together, talking, laughing, and rebuilding the bond that had always been their constant.

One evening, as they sat in Yoongi's apartment watching a movie, Jimin turned to Yoongi, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Yoongi-hyung, how do you always know the right thing to say? How are you always so... perfect?"

Yoongi chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I'm far from perfect, Jimin. I just care about you, and I want to see you happy."

Jimin smiled, a genuine warmth in his eyes. "You really are my best friend, hyung. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Yoongi's heart swelled with a mixture of joy and sorrow. "And I always will be, Jimin-ah. No matter what."

When they returned their attention to the movie, Yoongi couldn't help but hope that one day, Jimin would see him in a different light. He knew how impossible that was, but he still had that hope deep inside.

Time seemed to move in cycles for Yoongi. Just as Jimin began to heal from one heartbreak, he found himself swept up in another whirlwind romance. This time was no different. Jimin had gone on a date with yet another girl, and once again, he was full of excitement and hope. One evening, Yoongi sat at their usual café, waiting for Jimin to arrive. When Jimin walked in, his eyes were glowing, his whole demeanor radiating happiness.

"Yoongi-hyung, you won't believe it! I had the most amazing date last night," Jimin exclaimed as he sat down, his face alight with joy.

Yoongi mustered a smile, the familiar ache in his chest resurfacing. "Oh? Tell me about her."

Jimin launched into a detailed story of his date, describing the girl with such enthusiasm that it was impossible not to be affected by it. He spoke of her kindness, her sense of humor, and how they seemed to connect on a deeper level. As Jimin continued to talk, Yoongi felt a wave of exhaustion wash over him. He had heard these words so many times before, had seen Jimin's eyes sparkle with the same excitement, only to watch it fade away when the relationship inevitably fell apart. He felt suddenly tired, as if the weight of his unspoken feelings was finally catching up to him.

"Yoongi-hyung, are you okay?" Jimin's voice broke through his thoughts, concern evident in his tone. "You've been really quiet."

Yoongi forced another smile, though it felt more strained this time. "I'm fine, Jimin-ah. Just a bit tired. It's been a long week."

Jimin frowned slightly, but seemed to accept the explanation. "You sure? You don't seem like yourself."

Yoongi nodded, trying to ignore the lump in his throat. "Yeah, just tired. What's her name?"

Jimin's eyes lit up again. "Her name is Hana. She's incredible, Yoongi. I really think this could be something special."

Yoongi nodded again, maintaining his facade. "That sounds great, Jimin-ah. I'm happy for you."

Later that night, Yoongi met with Hoseok for a drink at a quiet bar. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the what was going inside Yoongi's mind.

"Hyung, you look like you haven't slept in days," Hoseok observed, concern etched on his face.

Yoongi sighed, taking a sip of his drink. "I feel like I haven't. It's Jimin... He's on cloud nine again with this new girl, Hana. And I just... I can't keep doing this, Hoba."

Hoseok nodded sympathetically. "I figured it was something like that. You need to take care of yourself, hyung. You can't keep putting Jimin's happiness above your own if it's tearing you apart."

Yoongi looked down at his drink, the amber liquid swirling in the glass. "I know. That's why I think I need to step away, at least for a bit. Clear my head. I'm going to Daegu tomorrow morning. I need some time to myself."

Hoseok's eyes widened in surprise but quickly softened with understanding. "I think that's a good idea. You need a break. But are you going to tell Jimin?"

Yoongi shook his head. "No, not yet. I don't want him to worry or feel guilty. I just need some time to figure things out."

Hoseok reached out, placing a comforting hand on Yoongi's shoulder. "I get it. I'll keep your secret. Take all the time you need, hyung. You can always call if you need me."

The next morning, Yoongi packed a small suitcase and left for Daegu. The city was a place of familiarity and comfort, far from the emotional stress of Seoul. As the train sped away from the busy city, Yoongi felt a mix of relief and sadness. He needed this time to heal, to find some semblance of peace within himself. Only Hoseok knew where he was, and he promised to keep Yoongi's whereabouts a secret. The first few days in Daegu were quiet and reflective. Yoongi spent time revisiting old haunts, walking through familiar streets, and letting the calmness of the city wash over him.

He found solace in the simplicity of his days, far removed from the complexities of his feelings for Jimin. He focused on his music, pouring his emotions into new compositions, finding a sense of release in the melodies and harmonies he created. He also found some time to spend with his family. He felt somewhat happy.