Jungkook was shaking his leg as he ate breakfast. From the moment that he woke up he'd been nervous.

Today was finally the day that he would return to campus.

It was the day that he had to face everyone after that disaster of a party caused him to be humiliated and exposed. He knew he was ready, but he couldn't help but still feel nervous about what was to come.

"Bun, you have been shaking your leg the whole time. Everything is going to be okay. You have your new look and all. You have me, you have your hyungs. Everything will turn out well," Kyungmi covered his hands with hers to comfort him.

Seeing his leg shaking had the woman worried for her boy. Speaking of, Kyungmi had been able to talk with her sister and get a DNA sample of Jungkook when he wasn't home by taking a hair in his hair brush.

All she needed was to give the samples which she planned to do during her lunch break.

"I know, but I can't help but still feel nervous. I know I will have backup but still. I have to do this," he says as he finishes his breakfast.

"You can do this, now since you are done, let's head out. We both have classes we need to attend. Me to teach and you to learn! I promised to drive you so let's take my car," she says getting up and putting both their plates in the sink. She would wash them later.

Jungkook takes his backpack from the room he's been staying in. He catches a look of himself in the mirror. These clothes were definitely different from what he usually wore. He usually wore long loose fitting clothes that were comfortable and sometimes he would wear something shorter and tighter, but this time although the fitting was loose, it was slightly different.

He had on a white shirt, blue hoodie, and ripped jeans. It wasn't that he hadn't worn jeans like this before, just never on campus, as he was self conscious, but Jimin and the rest had urged him to embrace himself more so he wore some of the clothes they bought.

Taking one quick glance, he stepped out and saw Kyungmi in the hallway of the building as she waited for him to put on his shoes and close the door.

They walk to the car and drive off, Kyungmi putting some music on so that the other can relax a little but her son still seemed nervous the more they got closer to the school. She frowned.

She only wanted him to feel confident, to be sure of himself, to feel safe and not anxious. She hoped the other boys would be able to calm him down.

She smiles as they enter the parking lot. The boys were already waiting for them outside a car.

She parks near them and looks around to make sure no one is around.

Jungkook gets out of the car first and all the other boys gape in awe after seeing Jungkook in different clothes and his new hair in person.

"Wow, he really looks even more good looking in person with this! You did well Jimin!" Tae compliments Jungkook and pats Jimin's shoulder who smiles proudly.

"I told you," Jimin replies with a smug look.

"No kidding, he looks even more handsome than before!" Namjoon says as well, which causes a blush to appear on Jungkooks cheeks.

"You guys overestimate me too much. Morning hyungs!" He smiles and they smile back.

"Good morning Kookie! Did you sleep well?" Jin asks, heading over to stand next to him.

"I guess I did, though I really was second thinking that maybe I shouldn't be doing this but I didn't want to keep being a chicken!" He answers them. Seeing the professor get out of the car, they all greet her.

"Good morning boys! How is everybody? Have you all slept well?" she asks caringly and they all nod.

"Yes, we were excited to know Jungkook is back on campus with us!" Hobi replies as the woman smiles.

"I am too! Thank you guys for influencing him to come here. Please take care of him and let him know that everything will be okay. He wouldn't stop shaking his leg this morning," she said, and Jungkook looked at her with a pout.

"You didn't need to tell them how nervous I am," he whines.

"I had to Jungkookie, anyways I better go! I'll see you all later in the day guys! Sadly, I can't stay and chat but I have to go. Please come to class. I have news to share about the showcase," she informs them and they nod.

"You know we are always there, professor!" Jimin smiles at her.

"I know, by the way you look very handsome with that color Jiminie! I was told Jungkookie chose the color and that you chose his. You both know how to pick and you all, handsome as always!" She compliments them all with sincerity and fondness.

"Thank you professor," Yoongi replies on behalf of them all.

"I better go though, I'll be late. See you boys later! Everything will be okay, got it Jungkook? You got this! You can do this!" She says and he nods she then waved to them and leaves, hoping for her son to have a good day.

"Ready to do this Kook?" Namjoon asks and takes a few steps forward.

"No, but I have to do this," He lets out a breath.

"The faster we get it over with, the better. " He says as the rest nod.

"Like professor says, you got this in the bag Jungkook! Go rock it, you will do well, we are right here with you! We will all be by your side. No one can hurt you with us here," Taehyung says to him. Jungkook takes another deep breath and nods.

"Let's do this then!" Yoongi starts walking and the guys follow him. Jungkook tightens his grip on his backpack and settles in between Namjoon and Jin with Tae on the back, Jimin and Hobi in front and Yoongi leading.

As they walked out of the parking lot everything was normal and some people even didn't notice them. They knew that the real attention would be once they got to the area where the majority of music and performing arts were in.

"See! So far so good, Kook!" Jin quietly says to him as they walk and Jungkook gives him a small grin. As they get closer people start to tell that Jeon Jungkook was back and that he wasn't alone. He saw people gaping and whispering to their friends after seeing him.

He tried ignoring their actions. "Damn! Jungkook is back? With a new look too?" He hears someone say and he shakes his head. He didn't know how to act after everyone saw his facade, he felt awkward.

As they entered the area everyone's eyes were on him. The whispering and shock was more evident, along with a few disgusted looks toward him. He looked down, not wanting to see it. He hated this attention.

"What are you all whispering on? Yes he's back and that's it?! Can't a man return to campus in peace? I'm sure you all have better things to do! It's not like he's an idol," Yoongi scolds. The people who kept staring looked away, a mad Min Yoongi was intimidating.

After getting to a spot where not many people could bother them they all sat down.

"I fucking hate all this attention I am getting, and what's worse is that I can't seem to recognize who's shocked to see me and who's feeling unpleasant by it. It feels so wrong to know everyone saw my past weak state," he expressed to the others as he sighs and looks down.

"You would think I'd be used to it considering how people would look at me when they knew me as a bad human, but now? I guess after everything fell so did my confidence," he puts his head in his hands and then runs them through his hair.

"It's very hard but just focus on us. This will only be for the first few days and that's it! You only feel the way you do because before you had this whole costume and mask on but now that it's off you don't know how to act because it's been a long time since the real Jeon Jungkook was shown to the public," Namjoon sits next to him, consoling the younger boy who looked at him and thinking on his words.

"It's very true. You will get used to it little by little. However, if you listen well, all those whispers and comments have mainly been how you are okay enough to be back, or so it's what I've heard. There were only a few bad ones but all seemed positive," Yoongi sits next to him as well.

"I guess, I just want to hide but as I always say, I don't want to be a scaredy cat or coward," he slumps and pouts.

"Just block them Kook, the only opinions that should matter should be yours, ours and your family. It's hard but blocks everyone else. Now why don't we talk about something else to distract you while we wait for class hmm?" Jin puts both his hands on the youngest shoulders.

All six of them only wanted to make the younger feel comfortable his first day back after almost two weeks.

"Okay," he accepts.

"Jungkook, you are back?" A female voice says as she stops to confirm that it was Jungkook who was sitting down with the group.

All seven of them turn to see Haewa standing in front of him. She smiles seeing him finally be back. She couldn't help but look at how handsome the boy looked as she felt her feelings come back stronger.

"Haewa-ssi," he responds in a short and firm voice.

"Uhm, can we talk? Please?" Haewa asks nicely and in a small pleasing tone.

"No. I don't want to and I need to get to class in 10 minutes," he replies keeping the same firm tone as the others stand there awkwardly not knowing what to do.

"Uhh Kook, we will be right there. On the side, we will let you guys figure anything out alone. We won't be far just so that there's some space," Tae tells the youngest and they move a few feet away to have the boy and girl talk.

They only knew a little about what happened in their relationship and the boys weren't happy about it. They wanted to know more if they were honest, but preferred to wait until the other was ready to open on the subject.

"Please Jungkook. It's killing me to not be able to talk to you and clear things up! I also want to make it clear that I had nothing to do with Sungchuls plan for that party!" She defends herself. She was worried about him thinking that she was part of this plan when she wasn't.

" I just want to give you an explanation of what happened in the past and clear things up! I know what I did back then was horrible and I hate myself everyday because of it, but I truly need to talk to you. Everything you saw on the thread was true," she says desperately.

"You're right, what you did to me was horrible, it was the worst thing you could have done! What you did has no forgiveness. You are also right that it's in the past. Everything is in the past so let's leave it there yeah? I don't need your explanations or excuses that are three years late!" He says annoyed, trying to maintain his tone. He wanted to be seen as mature and strong.

"You came too little and too late. I waited for your explanation months after what happened and you never gave it to me! So, no I don't want to hear you Haewa. I don't think I ever can, even if I did I don't feel like doing so right now," he states back.

"I changed!" She says in the same desperate tone.

"Good for you. It's good that you changed and that you've become a better person but I still don't want anything to do with you."

"You still love me! You are mad because you still love me, no?" She asks with hope and he looks down.

"No, I don't love you anymore Haewa. I once did but I don't anymore," With those words the woman frowns.

"No, I'm not mad at you. I'm just annoyed that you don't give me space and that you decide to come back after so long to give me answers that I don't need anymore," he stands up and looks her straight in the eye.

"I put our supposed love in the past, you should too. Look, thank you for making that thread of me, but right now, I still don't wish to talk to you. Maybe in the future I will but right now I don't. Please don't push it, it's already good enough that I'm considering talking to you in the future. Don't make me rethink," Jungkook continued her stare and ended the statement calmly. He was upset but he didn't want to keep showing it.

The girl sighs in defeat. She closes her eyes and breathes in before speaking.

"Fine, I'll leave you alone. Please let me know when you wish to talk so that we can both at least get closure. I won't be in your way anymore,I am sorry," she speaks and bows before leaving with a dejected look.

Jungkook sighs, putting his shoulders down and seeing the hyungs approaching his way again.

"Will she finally leave you alone?" Jin sits next to him again.

"I think so. I hope so, anyway I should get to class. This class, I'm all alone so let's hope things go right...I'm nervous though..." he sighs dreading going to class and seeing more people speak on his return and about the party.

"It will be okay, just focus on your lectures and or professor and even if it's hard, block everyone else's comments. You already got some of the hard stuff out the way. You have another class after with Yoongi and then we have Professor Jang," Jin touches his hair softly and Jungkook gives a small smile at the caress.

"You like caresses?" Jimin asks, making Jungkook shy.

"Ahh yes. I like affection a lot," he admits shyly.

I just don't get it often or don't know how to ask for it..." he looks down.

"Well lucky for you, some of us really love affection. From now on be prepared to get a lot of affection from me, Jimin, and Tae! The others like it too but are more cowards to ask," Hobi glared at Yoongi, Jin, and Namjoon who rolled their eyes.

"Anyways, I'll get to class. I'll see you guys in Professor Jangs class!" He checks his phone and puts it away.

"I'll walk you to it since my class is only a few feet away from you after!" Namjoon offers and Jungkook nods.

"See ya later kook!"

"Bye kook!

"You will be okay!" He hears them say and he smiles nodding and starting to walk to his class. The stares were still there but he tried his best to ignore them even if it's hard.

"You know, it's not just you they are talking about right?" Namjoon brings up all of sudden and Jungkook tilts his head confused as they walk.

"What?"

"It's not just you who they are talking about. They are also talking about us who are with you. Knowing we are even closer now after everything must be shocking to everyone. So, what I'm saying is you aren't alone. We too have had eyes on us," Namjoon tries comforting him.

"That may be true but the main focus is still on me. How do you guys do it?" He asks with a sigh.

"Do what?"

"Not care what others say about you and how to not change because of it? I desperately wish I could not care but I think I have a long road ahead," he looks to the side.

Namjoon wraps an arm around him.

The younger one tries not to move. He was still getting used to the affection that the others gave.

"Well no one can ever fully stop caring. As humans I think no matter how hard we try we still care a little, but there comes a point where you start to think that these people don't actually know you and your story or your life. So, what they say really doesn't have much value. You end up realizing that the only opinions worth caring and worrying about are those who truly love you," Namjoon replies in a philosophical tone. Or so that's how Jungkook sees such a tone.

"At some point, I know the only thing you will see worth caring for is what those who love you think. We will help you reach that point too," Namjoon nods and smiles.

Jungkook smiles back, taking the words of the older man. He truly hoped that would end up being his case even if it's a long road until he ends up there.

"Thanks hyung! Anyways this is my class. Guess the nightmare starts. Anyways, see you during Professor Jangs class," Jungkook stands in front of his class.

"See you there and remember! They don't know you so their words shouldn't be of great value," Namjoon reminds him and Jungkook nods.

Jungkook walks in and sees Namjoon wave back. He waved back and smiled a little. He then turns around and secretly tries to hide the sighs that he let out when he saw some of the room being silenced when he came in and the other chatting away in a not so secretive tone.

He went and sat at his usual seat and began to take his computer out. He tried his best to not get uncomfortable under people's stares but it was hard.

He ignored it for five minutes until he had enough and spoke up. He didn't know where he was getting the courage but he was just annoyed.

"I must be a celebrity or kpop idol for you all, right? Whatever happens to me is talked about and or gossiped about and then I'm being watched on top of it," Jungkook says loudly enough for everyone to hear.

The room wasn't so loud so his current voice was enough for everyone in the room to hear.

Everyone immediately quieted down hearing him speak.

"I'm aware that you all know what happened at the party. I know it's the main topic but I'd appreciate it if you guys talked about it when I am not around. I don't wish to relive or hear about that moment anymore," he says formally. Other times he probably would use his cold angry voice but he didn't want to do that right now.

This shocked everyone because they expected his usual hard and mean words.

"I don't mind you all staring at me either but at least do it in a subtle way that won't make me uncomfortable. I'm not a celebrity, is it really hard to see me as a regular college student?" He asks, looking at the room that kept quiet. He saw how some people were sinking down or turning away feeling guilty.

"We aren't in high school either. Just please try not to make everything so obvious. None of you would like it if you were in my shoes too. So please," he finishes and everyone nods, turning around. He sighs.

He didn't know truly where the courage came from but he actually felt proud for talking out loud and acting mature. He should have been like this from the start.

It was safe to say that although his class time felt uncomfortable it at least wasn't as bad as when he walked in.

He truly hoped everything would soon blow over. 

                                      _________________________________

Finally, the end of the school day had arrived and Jungkook was so relieved. It wasn't so bad but he really hated being the center of attention.

He sighed remembering he had the whole week to go. However, he at least got the hardest part done, now he just needed to keep focus in surviving the rest of the week.

As he enters Professor Jangs class the same situation happens again but he notices that it's less people talking and or whispering about him compared to the other classes. Still he was annoyed.

He quickly passes and sees the hyungs in their corner. He goes to them and sits in between Jin and Hobi. He doesn't know what comes over him but he drops his head on Hobis shoulder.

Hobi smiles and caresses his hair. This was the first time the boy did this but the older one was nowhere near uncomfortable.

"Was it that bad Jungkookie?" Jin asks Jungkook and pats his knee.

The others can only coo seeing the youngest one pout.

"It—wasn't as horrible as I thought it would be but it wasn't as good either. In one class the attention was too much so I spoke up. You may hear about it on social media or with others. I did it formally and in a not so cold way but still a little firm," Jungkook replies looking outside the door.

"Good for you! People need to learn boundaries and how to be respectful. We just have this one class and we are done for the day! Any plans afterward?" Yoongi asks from behind.

"Hmm no? Maybe go eat or hang with either you guys or Yugyeom. I'll see," he replies as they nod and wait for Professor Jang to arrive.

They waited for a while and saw that the woman was still not here which they all had found error. She usually was here on time.

"Hello guys! I'm so sorry that I am very late today! I went to do an important errand and the traffic was horrible but I'm here now! Thanks so much for waiting for me!" She comes in a little breathless with a smile on her face as she puts her bag on the table.

It had been true, during her break time, Kyungmi had gone to her apartment to get Jungkooks DNA sample from a strand of hair that was on his hairbrush, she then went as quickly as she could to hand in the evidence at the DNA center.

She wanted to have the confirmation as soon as possible. She knows she could have done it another time but she was eager. Plus she's not always late.

"Anyways, today I'll give a brief presentation on the coming showcase and the run down and then I have something to tell you all! Anyways let's get started!" She says and begins to open up her computer and connect it to the screen on the board.

As time passes by she takes a few glances at Jungkook and at the other boys. She wanted to know if the boy was okay. She also wanted to see if the other guys were okay too. She's heard talks of people mentioning them too and didn't like it.

"Alright that's it! Now so before break you will have a month until the showcase starts! Before that break I wish to evaluate your hard work so far. I need to give commentary and if you need help that would be a good time to ask. I've put you all in time slots that I hope work! If you can't make the time I scheduled then let me know, I can rearrange," she begins.

"I'll be evaluating synergy and teamwork between your groups, stage presence and some stability in vocals, and all of that!" She clasps her hands together.

"We are getting very close so we need to start piecing everything together! I've posted on our course board the time slots I've had you all in and the days. Please do see it! I can't wait to see what you all have so far! Anyways, that's all for today's class! You are dismissed," she smiles and sees the students nod and agree.

"Well looks like we really will need to clean up the chores now and start working on that second choreography and song. I know butterfly is our main focus but even if we are her "favorites' ' Hobi whispers the last last part as they all stand up.

"She will still grade us objectively. So, why don't we go work on the choreography for butterfly today? I don't know if that's possible for any of you?" Hobi asks and they all look at each other to see if they have any plans.

"Seems like no one has plans so let's do it! Anyways let's go rest a little and then meet up again today later on?" Taehyung suggests as he grips his backpack.

"Sure!" They all day at once. Jungkook was looking around when he saw someone familiar look in the small space as students exited from the door

He squints to see the person clearly and widens his eyes when he realizes that it's his sister.

"Sorry guys, I—I think my sister unexpectedly came to visit me!" He says looking in the same direction and the others look back to see a female figure turning around and standing by the door.

Jungkook walks towards her and stops.

"Noona? What are you doing here? How did you know where this class was located? Is something wrong?" Jungkook walks and puts his hoodie down. His sister gapes at his hair style.

"Woah, did you change your hair? You look very cool! Wow, that color and style suits you very well! You look like you are very mature too and youthful! I like it!" She says touching it with a smile, not caring if people leaving the classroom are noticing them.

"Yes I changed it, now why are you here all of a sudden?" Jungkook asks again.

"I know it's very sudden but I couldn't wait any longer. I was missing you so much and I also want to apologize in person. Are you busy for a couple of hours? I'd really like for us to hang and talk," she says with hope in her eyes.

"I—sure? I just have to be back before a certain time," Jungkook replies. He feels people pay him in the back and he turns around.

"Hyungs, can we start the practice at 6? I need to talk with my sister," he asks and they nod.

"Oh my bad," Jungkook says when he sees his sister and the hyungs looking at each other with a smile.

"Ah right, noona these are my friends and my partners for a project for the class I just finished. I'm sure you've heard about some of them! This is Kim Seokjin, Min Yoongi, Jung Hoseok, Kim Namjoon, Park Jimin and Kim Taehyung!" He introduced one by one who bowed to her.

"This is my sister Eunjae," he points to her.

"You finally have friends?! I thought this day would never come!" She says at the mention of the word friends. Since Jungkook never really had any she never met any of them.

"Nice to meet you guys! Though some of you I have seen before! Mainly you and you if I'm not mistaken," she points to Jin and Jimin who smile and nod.

"Ahh yes! Our fathers have signed or have partnered up with your father and I think you've been there a few times?" Jin replies and Eunjae nods.

"Yes! He takes me to learn the ropes since I'll be taking over in the future which is still far from now seeing how our dad is barely in his 40s," she replies keeping the same smile.

The others can't help but see the similarities between Jungkook and his sister. They had the same smile and side profile, but they couldn't help but see that Eunjae looked like someone they knew but couldn't point out who.

"Anyways, thank you for being my brother's friends! He never has introduced my dad or I to any friends so knowing he finally has some makes me feel emotional and happy. Happy that he isn't alone! Really, thank you!" She bows, being grateful.

"No need to thank us. Actually we are his friends because we tried our best to conquer this guy! It wasn't easy but it was worth the fight!" Taehyung puts his hand on Jungkook's shoulders who blushes and shakes his head.

"Anyways it was nice meeting you Eunjae-ssi! We will leave you with your brother now! He's actually missing you..." Namjoon says with a smirk, hoping it causes more affection between the two. They knew that his current situation with his sister was shaky.

"I've missed him too.." She smiles and looks at Jungkook fondly.

"Anyways see you next time! See you later Jungkookie!" They all bow to her and wave at Jungkook who nods.

Jungkook was about to speak when he heard Professor Jangs voice coming. "Jungkook? What are you still doing outside?" She asks and is walking out when she stops her tracks.

Standing right in front of her was her daughter.

She couldn't believe it.

It was one thing to see her in pictures but to see her in real life again was way different. She wanted to cry and hug her, wanted to shower her with the affection she stopped giving her. She wanted to not let her go until she for sure felt it wasn't a dream.

She noticed that she's staring a bit and composed herself the best she could as her heart beats very fast.

"Ah right, Eunjae meet my professor for my class! This is Professor Jang, she's not just my professor but almost like my therapist and someone really close to me. She's been taking care of me well! Professor, this is my sister who I've talked to you about! This is Jeon Eunjae," he introduced and the girl smiled while bowing.

Eunjae didn't want to say it but the moment she saw the women stop in her tracks and look their way she felt as if she had known her for her entire life. Even now that he's introducing herself she feels the same.

"Hello! I'm Jungkook's older sister Jeon Eunjae! It's nice meeting the professor! Thank you so much for taking care of my little brother!" She bows again and Kyungmi swallows before bowing back.

"Nice to meet you Eunjae-ssi! It fee- it's nice to finally meet you!" Kyungmi speaks, trying her best to sound normal and not affected. Though right now she was facing the same feelings she felt after knowing Jungkook was her son.

"Have I seen you before though? You look familiar??" She asks and Kyungmi smiles.

"I don't think so? Maybe you've seen me around campus when you have come to see your brother?" She replies. What she really wanted to reply was that she has seen her before because she is a part of her.

Wanted to tell her that she was finally back, that her mom had finally come home.

"Could be! I hope my brother isn't much trouble for you Professor! Now that he doesn't live with us anymore...I worry for him and miss him a lot," she frowns looking at him.

"It's okay noona, I have Professor Jang and my friends plus my roommate. I swear I'm fine and being taken care of. Professor Jang most importantly has been one of the people to help me the most!" He smiles at the professor who smiles back at Jungkook and then looks back to Eunjae.

Her two babies were really tight in front of her eyes, all grown up. None of them were the little kids that she left. They were now young men and women who had grown up wonderfully.

"Really? well once again thank you very much! I'm glad my brother had found good people to trust in and take care of him. Really, thank you Ms," she bows again.

"No, please no need to be so formal or bow!" She waved her hands to stop her daughter from bowing again.

"No need to thank me, I do it because I care for him a lot and wanted to help him out! I'm just doing something human that's all," she kept smiling and breathed in a little to stop herself from getting emotional.

"Still thank you very much!" Eunjae smiles widely.

"Anyways, we have to go but I'll see you later Professor! I'll let you know!" Jungkook looks at Kyungmi who nods.

"Yes of course! I don't want to take more time away from you guys! See you later and Eunjae, nice to meet you darling. You are very beautiful and kind it seems."

"Thank you! It was nice meeting you too! I hope to see you next time! Let's go?" She looks at Jungkook who nods.

"Bye Professor!" Jungkook waves and her sister waves back.

Kyungmi swallows and waves back with a smile. The two siblings turn around and begin to walk. Kyungmi immediately grabs onto the wall, feeling as if her knees will give out. She then starts breathing a little hard, taking in what just happened as tears started to pool in her eyes.

She keeps her gaze on her two children. How much have they both grown, how much she wished to tell them the truth. How much she wishes to hug them both as their mom and join them.

However, she needs to go one step at a time. She has that very clear.

"So, your professor seems very nice! I don't know why but when I saw her I felt some...how should I put it?" Her sister speaks as they walk in the campus.

"Warmth? Like you've known her before?" Jungkook finishes for her and looks at her.

His sister nods.

"Yeah, that's why I asked if I had seen her before. She seems really familiar I don't know! But she does radiate a lot of warmth. Is she a mom? Because that's the warmth it feels."

"She is, she's a mom of two kids about our age I think? However, it's complicated with her and them, they really aren't on speaking terms but yeah I guess that's why there's some warmth," Jungkook replies letting the breeze hit their faces.

"Mmm, makes sense then. I'm glad there's an adult that is taking care of you! You guys seem to really get along. Although I have gotten along with two professors, this feels different for you though?" She questions.

"I'm an adult though. You are forgetting that I'm 21 Eunjae... but you can say that after I left the house she really looked out for me because I was a mess. She cares for all her students but I guess I needed more caring for. She's truly the best and I confide in her a lot. I actually am staying with her for a little bit. She lives alone so..." he expressed and she looked at him confused

"Really? Why? You really need to catch me up with your life, kook!" She smiles.

"I—how do I start this? You could say I've had some rough couple of weeks. Today was very tough too. I am not even going to lie... I don't know if I told you that Sungchul was back? That he's in this school, but if I didn't then he is. Just like always, he found a way to make my life hard," he looks down frowning.

"What do you mean?! What did that asshole do this time? Are you okay?" She was worried, she was starting to feel bad that she didn't know what was going on with her brother.

"I'm hanging there I guess, where do you want to go? We are outside the entrance of the campus and I'm not coming back to the dorms until after my break so..." he asks before going on to tell her sister what happened.

"Hmm there's this new chicken place near by that people say is good, why don't we go?" She asks and he nods.

On their way Jungkook explains everything to Eunjae who gets upset by each word coming out of her brother's mouth.

"So, I ended up staying at Professor Jangs home. I also had made a promise to myself a day or two after that I would change," he says, sighing and his sister looks at him confused.

"What changed? More change? You don't need to change kook.." Eunjae speaks.

Jungkook doesn't blame her, to her he's had a regular college life when that's been far from it. In her view, he changed after that high school incident, yes, but maybe only in the slight way he looked or acted.

"But I do Eunjae. You may say I don't need to because I haven't told you the decisions I've made for myself ever since that high school incident. Do you remember when I told you that I had a girlfriend but that she broke up with me?" He asks and she nods.

"Yeah I remember. I remember feeling a great fury within me when you told me why exactly you guys broke up and the way she used you," she replies bitterly and defensively. She was there to mend the broken heart of her brother and remembering his tears and what he went through was engraved in her mind.

"I was very close to asking someone to find her place and literally doing something, but I didn't because I know that even if she deserved it, you didn't like things like that, but I do remember," she ends.

"Well, I have told you mainly all but the small promise I had made to myself after everything. I always wondered why people didn't like me and why I was always getting hurt by people and so back then my conclusion was that nobody liked me because of who I was. I felt that everything happened because I'm too weak. My personality is too weak and the kind that everyone just hates and doesn't want..." they stop at the intersection and wait for the light to give them the go and cross the street.

"So, I told myself that who I truly was, was the issue. So, I went to college and I pretended to be somebody I was not. Someone cold, distant, strong, kind of powerful? Of course I never bullied anybody or messed around with anyone. I haven't had any intimacy with everyone since Haewa...it was hard acting like not myself and I was still put to the side but at least no one looked down on me,"

"Why? Jungkook, who you truly aren't isn't the issue. They were the issue, who you are has nothing to do with how you were treated," Eunjae scolds him a little as they cross the street.

"I know that or am starting to know that now. Anyways, I made a name of myself of being the bad boy, or fuck boy of campus though I never did what people would spread. However, despite that I was still lonely and nobody approached me but at least I was not getting hurt. I was getting tired of pretending but I was scared and didn't want to repeat the same story..." he sighs.

"However, I then met Professor Jang, and she along with my friends made me realize that this isn't the way to go and that I should be myself. That I'm just hurting my own self by doing so. Actually, my friends and I argued a lot and weren't friends before we were put into a project together..." he chuckles a little.

"Really? Didn't seem like you guys were enemies beforehand though? Oh, here we are!" His sister says opening the door to the restaurant and sitting down at a place that they both choose.

They order some chicken and drinks and Jungkook continues.

"Back to the story, I didn't feel like taking off my mask. I mean I did but not as soon as I thought...that's until my hyungs wanted me to go to a party. Now, you know I don't like stuff like that because of my past but at the same, I was intrigued and wanted to know what it's like to experience being a regular college student having fun! I know you did for sure..." he points to her and she nods.

"How fun those days were..." she reminisces.

"Yeah so I went though I somehow had a bad feeling? Anyways the first half of the party was good I thought that what I was feeling was just anxiety but I was wrong because at some point...I see everyone checking their phones and looking at me..then I see my hyungs see their phones too and I look at the phone to see pictures of myself being bullied...videos of me getting beaten up..." he sighs frowning at the current memory that wasn't so long ago.

"What? Why? How?!" She asks worried and curious, she was starting to get mad and wondered who would do such a thing to her brother until it clicked.

"Was it that asshole of Sungchul again?" She asks angrily.

"Yeah, to make matters worse, he played a video that I didn't know was being recorded. They put the video of that awful day. The time when I was also told how I was played. I felt exposed, humiliated, upset, and scared because everyone was seeing me. I tried so hard to leave in the past and change...I fought Sungchul and I ran off that place as fast and as far as I could and...I had a major panic attack," he looks down and she widened her eyes.

"You had a panic attack?! How long has it been since you've had one? Has it been current again kook? It was really that bad..." She frowns and they get their drinks on the table.

"Yeah, but Professor Jang and two of my hyungs found me. I didn't feel like going to campus in fear that everybody saw such videos and photos so I stayed at Professor's house and am still staying in her place...." He drinks some of his soda and looks to the side.

"I wasn't in a very good mental space after...but once again my hyungs and my professor got me through it, grandma did too..." he reveals and she stops taking a sip of her drink at the mention of their grandmother.

Although everyone knew that Jungkook was closer to his grandma than Eunjae not because the older woman was more loving towards him, no she treated them equally but because Eunjae was sometimes busy with their dad. Still, Eunjae loved their grandma and their grandma loved her back just as much.

"Grandma?"

"Yes...she appeared one night in my dreams I think to scold me and make me reflect. She told me it was time to stop hiding who I was and to listen to everyone around me when they say I should leave my mask behind me. That it will be scary but that I wouldn't be alone and get used to it at some point..." he smiles remembering her words.

"So I promised her and myself that I would change and this time in a better way than last. It's difficult for me and I'm still scared shitless, like very scared since showing my true side has always been a problem. But I don't want to hide anymore and be trapped in the box I put myself in. I want to be confident and love myself..I want to just be happy noona..." he looks at her with puppy eyes and she frowns knowing what he was trying to say.

"I'm sure your friends and your professor have told you millions of times but now I think me as your sister and blood should tell you, but..." she puts a hand on Jungkooks. He looks at it.

"Look into my eyes kookie..." she says and he looks up to meet her eyes.

"You are not a weak person at all. You are far from someone weak! Who you truly are isn't why people haven't liked you, I think people have just been envious of you or have had an even more miserable life. Who you are is not the problem and it never was and it never will be. I know I've had my own fault at making it seem as if who you are is not good enough or messed up but that's not true! I'm very sorry for that, really. You are one of the strongest men I know..." she says heartwarmingly.

"You are so strong because you've been through so much and you are still here standing! You are still here trying to find ways at some point to change! You are not a bad person and you aren't a fuck up either. You have this big heart that I feel it's hard for me to have all the time, you care about others and love those around you! You are talented and you are An amazing younger brother. Anyone who has you in their life is lucky. I am lucky. I know people have made you believe you aren't worth enough, but you are," she says and Jungkook smiles, hearing those words from his sister meant so much.

"I want you to be happy too, I want nothing else but happiness for you! You deserve it my little one...I know this will all be scary but you can count on me and I promise from now on I'll take your side into consideration and will try to be with you more. I've done a shitty job at being your sister as we've grown up, but I'm still in time to make up for my mistakes, no?" She asks and he nods.

"You really mean it all?"

"I do. I really do and I'll prove to you how true my words will be. I'm proud of you Jungkookie and what you have done so far and what you will do in the future too!"she smiles widely and he smiles back. He always wanted to hear that from his family and to know his sister said it, made him feel many things.

"It means a lot coming from you..." he says a little chocked up and his sister caresses his face the way she did when he was small.

"Don't cry now, I know you get emotional easily, but I don't want to cry and ruin my makeup," she teased and he laughed.

"Do you think that it's worth changing? That I should be myself?"

"I do. I think you are making the right choice kookie, the best one in my eyes. Be yourself...be happy...and I'll be with you!"

"I missed you a lot noona...although I feel good leaving home...I can't help but miss you sometimes..." Jungkook expresses and gets interrupted by having their chicken arrive at the table.

They quickly thank the person.

"I've missed you too! I miss you so much you have no idea! I'll visit you more from now on if you promise to visit me as well! Bring me a gift once I buy my apartment!" She smiles brightly and begins taking a piece of chicken.

"You guys are finally moving in together now that you are engaged huh?" He smiles seeing the engagement ring up close.

"Yes, though I feel bad that dad will have to end up alone in that big house," she frowns and Jungkook only nods, not saying anything.

"Has he reached out to you by the way?" She asks shyly.

"No. I don't expect him to either," he replies quickly while eating his chicken. He didn't want to say much in fear that it would lead to an argument like last time.

She sighs quietly.

"I won't talk much about him because we always fight, but even if you don't believe me, I know you won't but..." she started and he raised a brow in curiosity of what she would say.

"He misses you," she says and he smirks.

"What? It's true he does! His ego or pride or I don't know what just makes it difficult for him," she says.

"You are right, it's hard for me to believe. If he really missed me he would have found a way to talk with me and accept what I like. If he truly misses me he would contact me but he doesn't. I know I wrote in the letter to not contact me if he hadn't accepted what I want, but a true person who misses you goes above and beyond," Jungkook replies with a hint of bitterness and disappointment.

At the start he had hoped his father would contact him and say how much he regretted his words and that he missed him, but it'd been 5 months of nothing. He had lost hope.

"I know, I guess he's too prideful or too ashamed of, well, I don't know what but something. I've caught him looking at your pictures when I come home," she says, and Jungkook just continues eating.

He didn't want to get his hopes up or think anything of his father at the moment. It just added to his sadness and hurt.

"I saw him staring at the old photos and caressing the frames. Another time, he asked me how you were and I said you were okay but that we couldn't talk a lot. I didn't mention the argument so I said that instead. Another time I heard him say it to a friend when you were brought up. He misses you, Kook. Believe me or not, but he does," she looked at him in a serious manner.

Jungkook frowned.

"Even if he does, it's not enough for him to call or text me. Can we drop the topic? Please? I don't really feel like talking about him right now," he said politely. He really just wanted to eat and not focus on his family problems.

"Yes, I'm sorry for bringing it up. Anyways, I'm very happy with my engagement. You will obviously come to my wedding right?" She asked and he smiled, nodding.

"Of course I will, noona. I wouldn't miss it for the world. Just let me know when you guys decide!" He smiled and she smiled back.

"It feels good to be with you, Kookie," she took his hand and held it.

"It feels good to be with you as well, noona. I missed us," he speaks. He wasn't in a good place with his father but he hoped that at least from now on he would have a good relationship with his sister. He hoped they kept getting closer and kept the change.