Back To December [✓]

7. Twist of Fate

Jisoo woke up to the familiar sight of her hometown, the salty breeze carrying fragments of nostalgia.

A sense of anticipation lingered in the air as she glanced at her phone, realizing Jungkook hadn't replied to her message about their pending casual hangout. Doubts crept in, leaving her wondering if the plan was still on or if it had slipped away amidst the flurry of daily life.Just as she pondered about the uncertainty, a soft knock echoed at her door. Curious and slightly perplexed, she made her way to the entrance. To her surprise, Jungkook stood outside, a playful smile adorning his face.

"Hey, Jisoo!" Jungkook greeted her cheerfully, holding a small bouquet of flowers. "I hope I'm not intruding. I wanted to surprise you."

Jisoo was taken aback by his sudden appearance but couldn't help but smile at his thoughtful gesture. "No, not at all! What's the surprise?"

Jungkook handed her the bouquet with a grin. "Well, I thought we could explore some hidden gems of Busan today. I have a few places in mind that I think you'd enjoy." Her heart fluttered at his thoughtful planning, and she felt a wave of excitement wash over her. It was unexpected yet pleasantly surprising—a side of Jungkook she hadn't witnessed before.

"Hidden gems in Busan? I'm intrigued," Jisoo replied, a mix of surprise and curiosity lighting up her expression. "But wait, let me freshen up first. I haven't taken a shower yet."

"You haven't taken a shower?" Jungkook feigned disbelief, raising an eyebrow playfully. "How can you be this beautiful without freshening up?" he teased, chuckling lightly.

Jisoo laughed at his jest, shaking her head in mock exasperation. "I have my secrets," she replied with a grin. "Alright, give me a few minutes. I'll be ready to explore these hidden gems of Busan with you."

"Take your time, beautiful," Jungkook replied with a warm smile as Jisoo headed inside her home. She gestured for him to come in, explaining that she lived alone. Curious about her space, Jungkook wandered around, noticing the old photographs adorning the walls—a glimpse into Jisoo's past and memories of her parents.

As Jisoo emerged, ready for their day of exploration, Jungkook was momentarily transported back to a time when they were still together. The familiarity of her smile, the way she carried herself—it invoked a wave of nostalgia within him, a reminder of their shared history.

"Don't forget to bring your jacket, Jisoo," he said with a gentle reminder, trying to keep the moment casual despite the flood of emotions within him. He stepped outside, waiting for her with a smile that held traces of the past and a hint of the present.

°°°°

As they ventured through the charming streets of Busan, Jisoo and Jungkook found themselves immersed in the city's vibrant energy, exploring the hidden corners and unraveling the beauty of the lesser-known spots.

"Where to go next, tour guide Jungkook?" Jisoo teased with a playful smirk.

Jungkook feigned seriousness, adopting a mock tour guide voice. "Our next stop is the secret café that serves the best iced coffee in all of Busan. Follow me!" he exclaimed, leading the way with an exaggerated flourish.As they arrived at the quaint café tucked away in an alley, Jisoo couldn't help but laugh at Jungkook's theatrics. "I hope the coffee lives up to your grand announcement, Mr. Tour Guide," she quipped, nudging him gently.

Ordering their drinks, they settled into a cozy corner, exchanging stories and sharing laughter, the easy banter between them creating a comfortable atmosphere.

"So, what's your favorite childhood memory in Busan?" Jisoo inquired, sipping her coffee.Jungkook pondered for a moment, a nostalgic glint in his eyes. "Hmm, probably spending summer nights by the beach, watching fireworks with friends. How about you?"

Jisoo smiled, reminiscing. "I loved exploring the local markets with my parents, trying street food and getting lost in the vibrant colors."Their conversation continued, filled with anecdotes, lighthearted banter, and occasional moments of shared laughter. The day passed in a blur of exploration and bonding, each moment strengthening their connection and bringing forth a sense of companionship.

The sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Jungkook escorted Jisoo to the waterfront, offering her his jacket as the evening breeze grew chilly."You were right about the jacket," Jisoo remarked, slipping it on with a grateful smile. Jungkook grinned. "Always looking out for you," he replied with a playful wink, relishing the warmth of their newfound camaraderie.

As the sun bid adieu, casting an amber glow over the horizon, an unexpected tension emerged, subtly altering the tranquil atmosphere between Jisoo and Jungkook.

"Thank you for today, Jungkook. It was wonderful," Jisoo expressed with genuine appreciation, her voice carrying a hint of hesitation.Jungkook's smile faltered slightly, sensing a shift in the mood. "I had a great time too. But, Jisoo, there's something I've been meaning to talk to you about," he began, his tone laced with uncertainty.

A flicker of concern flashed across Jisoo's face. "Sure, what is it?" she asked, her voice tinged with apprehension.

Jungkook hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "I've been offered a job opportunity in a different city. It's a great career move, but it means I'll be leaving Busan soon," he explained, trying to gauge Jisoo's reaction.

Jisoo's heart sank at the unexpected news. The revelation tugged at her emotions, awakening a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. She felt a mix of surprise, disappointment, and a tinge of apprehension about what this meant for their rekindling connection.

"Oh," was all she managed to say, her mind racing to process the sudden turn of events.

Jungkook noticed the change in her demeanor, regret clouding his expression. "I know this might complicate things. I wanted to be honest with you," he admitted, his gaze filled with remorse.

"Th-that's good for you," Jisoo responded, trying her best to mask her disappointment behind a forced smile. Her attempt to hide her true feelings only added to the growing sense of conflict within her.

As they parted ways, Jungkook escorted her back home. The air between them grew heavy with unspoken words, the weight of impending separation casting a shadow over their recent connection.

"Take care, Jisoo," Jungkook bid her a gentle farewell, his voice tinged with regret.

"Thank you, Jungkook," she replied softly,

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