I know, I've heard that to
let your feelings show
Is the only way to
make friendships grow...

It was lunch time after the training. The guys had refreshed and when they walked out of the training centre, arms linked with Joonie, she felt the sun bathed Buenos Aires in a warm glow.

She, Niki, Namjoon, and Lucia decided to visit a very popular restaurant, La Cabrera, one of the city’s most renowned steakhouses. The group of four were was in high spirits, Niki and Lucia were following her and Namjoon in Nikis white sports car.

They were laughing and looked very relaxed as they entered the bustling restaurant. The tantalising aroma of grilled meats and the soft murmurs of other patrons filled the air, adding to their excitement.

The eyes of the other guest were huge when they saw two famous members of the national soccer team. Sully and Lucia just smirk at the admiration and giddiness of the patrons. The attending server was very polite, but Sully could see how his eyes widen at Niki and the talented goalkeeper.

“This place is so incredible!” Lucia whispered excitedly, her dark eyes darting around the place to take in the rustic decor and the lively atmosphere. This was a very popular establishment.

Niki grinned, “Yeah, it is. I’ve heard their steaks here are legendary. Very soft and succulent we’re about to have a feast today!”

Namjoon chuckled, “Sully is a meat lover, so I’ve promised her a relaxing time eating all the meat she wants,” he said, looking affectionately at his sister, who smiled gratefully.

Sully chuckled, “I hope they have enough because I’m hungrier than a lion on a chicken diet.”

They all laughed as Niki casually teased about Namjoon getting so star-struck by a German player, Manuel Neuer, during one of the qualifying matches, they surprisingly won. Namjoon just rolled his eyes good-natured but couldn’t hide his soft grin, the camaraderie between the four friends were unmistakable as they approached their reserved table gestured by the excited server.

The rustic charm of the restaurant captivated you, the dark wooden beams, vibrant murals on the wall and the cheerful chatter of patrons help created an atmosphere that promised good food and great memories.

Sully giggled when Lucia practically skipped to their table and plopped down near the window, still gushing about the vibrant decor, while Niki and Namjoon settled in their spots, giving the girls the privilege to sit at the enormous windows.

The boys’ conversation naturally shifting to football, which made the girls rolled their eyes. It seemed they brought soccer to lunch. The girls study the menu and they all place their drinks and food orders. She chose a grilled medium rare steak and ribs with lots of veggie sides. Because of her chronic condition, red meat and vegetables were an integral part of her diet. Following her hospitalization a few years ago, Namjoon found a very good nutritionist to create a complete diet plan for her.

“We’ve definitely to tighten up our defence, Joon,” Niki said, leaning back in his chair. “If we don’t, Italy’s going to be a nightmare, but Seokjin is very strategic. ”

Namjoon nodded, his fingers  were drumming lightly on the table, “True, but our offence is solid. We need not to be to concern. I think with the right strategy, we’ve got a real shot in acing our 20th qualifying game. We are so ready for the World Cup.”

The server brought their drinks. Niki and Namjoon ordered cold a Austral Torres de Paine ( A deep golden beer) for Namjoon and Austral Calafate ( Chilean beer for) Niki and she and Lucia opt for something whimsical, like Mendoza ( A juice consists of strawberry, raspberry and passion fruit. They even had a new flavor of watermelon crush and Kiwi and grapefruit which they opt for)

Sully smiled at their excitement the two men’s animated discussion, sipping her drink as she listened with a smirk, “So, we’ll be in Italy in a month’s time, huh. We can’t wait to see you in action?” she teased, “So you need to beef up on the steaks before the rigorous training after your breaks.”

Lucia interject, her dark eyes bright, “And don’t forget about Joons ambassador work in LA. Fila, Redbull and LIV watches. Gosh, two weeks in the States—are you truly ready for that kind of pressure?”

Namjoon shrugged, always humble for his accomplishments a soft smile was playing on his face, “No pressure at all. It’s an honour, but yeah, I’ll miss hanging out with you guys here. I know the vibe of LA’s great, especially as a public figure, but it will not be a substitute for spending time with family and friends. You guys just please look after Sully."

“Don’t worry,” Sully gave him a teasing smirk, rubbing his arm,“we’ll survive without you...big bro” Sully grinned happily.

She’s super proud of her brother, who came a long way. He and Jimin were the only players who won the accolade of ‘Player of the Year’.

Sully took another sip of her watermelon crush and moan loudly, “Gosh, this drink is seriously refreshing...I think I’ll try the Detox : lemon , basil, mint lime flavor next”

Lucia took a sip from her kiwi and grapefruit crusher drink she winced at the brain freeze that occurs. Niki just look lovingly at his beautiful girlfriend, the pure affection in his eyes wanted to make Sully tear up.

Will she ever experience true love like this? She smile when she saw how Niki stroked Lucias'  back softly. She and Namjoon just smile even Namjoon felt the sting of loneliness sometimes and she pray that he will get a girl that will value and love him more.

Suddenly, the lively atmosphere in the restaurant visibly shifted when the door opened, and Jimin strolled in with his beautiful twin sister Rose. The patrons looked extra excited to see another celebrity. The Striker and the fashion model. They were at the reservation desk. Jimin was talking to the hostess while Rosé looked around the cozy establishment.

Rose’s bubbly presence immediately drew attention, her beauty was striking as she was hanging on the arm of her laughing brother. She was a girl with a very sunny disposition and all eyes were on the curly blonde.

The excitement was palpable in the restaurant as she scanned the room for the best place where she wanted to sit. She then noticed four familiar people sitting at a table. When she saw Sully, her face lit up as her eyes widen with recognition.

“Kim Sullyoon! Oh wow!Rose shouted, grabbing Jimin’s arm tightly with her long pink and purplediamond manicured nails.

Jimin winced as she whispered loudly, pointing at the table by the windows, “Is that Namjoon’s sister?wow, José, I saw her last at school. She's all grown up and really beautiful!" She was so excited that she almost pulled Jimin over to the familiar group, even though he didn't seem very eager to go.

He looked at Sully, who seemed beautiful and calm, laughing with her brother and friends. It makes him feel very uneasy inside. He didn't understand himself.

“Sully! Namjoon!” She joyfully exclaimed. Her wide smile infectious as the four looked up with surprise. Greetings followed soon.

“Hi, everyone! Great seeing you Lucia, Niki---“ Rose greeted, waving enthusiastically, her energy instantly made the group smile.

“Oh, Hi Rosé.... José!” Lucia greeted back teasing Jimin with his Spanish name.

Rosé turned to Sully with a bright smile. And wide eyes, “Oh my word. I can’t believe it’s really you, Kim Sullyoon. Your hair is sooo gorgeous. You’ve grown into such a stunning young woman! No wonder Joon is so over protective,” she giggled.

“Hi Rosé, just call me Sully” Sully replied with a slightly flustered smile but still politely, “it’s good to see you again.You look as beautiful and stylish as always”

Namjoon smirk, ever the gracious host, gestured to an empty table near them, “Why don’t you two join us ... we can put the tables together... I hear today’s special is quite a huge portion and eat till you drop?”

Sully’s relaxed smile faltered immediately when her eyes briefly flickered to Jimin’s face, he didn’t look eager to join them. Maybe because of her presence. What in the world did she do to him?

She was so aware of his presence that was like an electric charge, her heart was beating erratically in her chest. His expression was unreadable as their eyes locked fleetingly.

Jimin furrowed his brows, “Erm...we are actually...”He gestured to a table where their server was calmly standing.

Rosé eyes sparkled as she clapped her hands excitedly together as she looked at her quiet , stoic brother, “Oh,common that would be great! Come José, let’s join them. But er... is it okay if us girls sit together for some girl talk...you boys will forget about us and talk only soccer and you boys can manage without us, right?”

Jimin inhaled sharply," Rosé...don’t impose on other peoples'---“

His gaze flickering again to Sully, who was drinking her soda successfully, avoids his intense eyes.

Niki and Namjoon laugh and exchanged amused glances and nodded, “Sure, why not. Theres' an open table near the bar. We can watch the replay of the Swedish game on the television.”

Niki grinned, “Cool. Go ahead, girl” he plants a kiss on Lucia’s mouth and stood up next to Namjoon. Niki gestured for Rosé to occupy his seat next to Lucia. Sully looked visibly relieved that Jimin will not be sitting with them. He unnerves her greatly.

Niki and Namjoon stood up, giving the girls the table. Rose slid into a chair with a playful laugh, already delving into a story about her recent adventures in Madagascar. Lucia eagerly joined in, their excitement bubbling over, while Sully just sat quietly, trying to steady her racing heart.

Jimin remained standing, his eyes locking briefly with Sully’s. It was as if they just couldn’t help it. That undeniable pull was visible and In that fleeting moment,it was as if they had an entire unspoken conversation between them.

Jimin’s chest constricts as he noticed the way Sully quickly averted her big eyes, her manicured fingers nervously playing with the edge of the tablecloth while her other hand grab her drink and took a sip from it, her cheeks burning, while Jimin’s heart raced, his discomfort was only growing as he stood there waiting for the boys to leave.

Rose wave them away as she started a lively conversation with Sully and Lucia. Rose and Lucia matched each other’s energy with an equally animated conversation, chatting like old friends. Sully just smiled and wave at her brother as they occupied the table not far from them, near the bar.

Jimin lingered a moment longer before he turned and followed his friends, his thoughts were clouded as he finally took a seat with Niki and Namjoon.

He mentally shook his head as he could hear the girls’ laughter filled the space. The boys just watch them amusedly. Jimin couldn’t help but peek a discreet glance back at Sully, wondering how a simple lunch would turn into something so complicated and tense.

Everyone was oblivious to the two pairs of eyes that tried bravely to ignore each other.

........

At the table just a few steps away from the girls’ table by the window, Niki, Namjoon, and Jimin leaned over their menus, discussing their upcoming trip to Italy. They were very excited. Few patrons had the courage to come up to them and ask for their autographs. The owners even took a photo with the team members.

“I’m telling you, guys,” Niki, with a whispering tone, “this match against Italy is do-or-die for us. We had to be wary of Paola Maldini. He has tactical intelligent and he can easily read the game and neutralize the attacking threats. He is impossible to beat. We’ve got to pray for a win. ”

Namjoon nodded, his brow furrowed in deep thought, they know the best rivals in the Italian camp, “True, but we’ve come this far. Even if Andrea Pirlo, their Midfielder is a free-kick expertise and even with his uncanny ability to pinpoint passes, or even if he can see a gab in the defense and will exploit it but Taehyung and Seokjin is in great shape and I think we can handle it.”

Jimin, sitting back in his chair, raised his eyebrow , added with a soft chuckle, “You sound very confident, hyung. With Baggios’ dribbling skills to finish under pressure is legendary. That guy is very unpredictability. Let’s hope you’re right.”

Niki grinned, leaning closer to the table, “Actually, I’m more nervous about something else.” he inhaled deeply, as he snakes his fingers through his long blonde strands.

Namjoon and Jimin both raised their eyebrows in anticipation, “Oh... what about?” Namjoon asked with caution.

“Well, you see. Erm... I’m planning to propose to Lucia while we’re in Italy. She is a very romantic at heart and I’ve been thinking about it quite awhile, “Niki confessed, his cheeks reddening slightly. Namjoon chuckled cause Niki was so whipped.

Namjoon and Jimin exchanged amused with impressed looks.

Namjoon teasingly clapped Niki on the back, “Man, Niki, you’re so lucky and very brave. Lucia’s an amazing girl and she loves you so much. And you’ve been dating for almost three years.”

Jimin nodded quietly, his smile soft but genuine; “Yeah, she’s definitely a keeper. You’ve got it all figured out.. this marriage thingy.”

Namjoon had a lopsided grin as he turned to Jimin, “Speaking of wedding bells, when are you and Aitana getting hitched... aren’t you dating for almost four years... I think your blondie is getting restless?” he looked teasingly at Jimin who just inhaled deeply.

That question made Jimin visibly uncomfortable.
Jimin just shrugged, bit his lip while he was looking down at his glass of golden beer, “Truth be told, I’m not ready for that step yet,” he said cautiously, “Things with Aitana…well, they’re kind of in a limbo...we actually er... not dating at the moment while she’s busy with her course in US.”

“Limbo... I thought you were heading towards marriage?” Niki asked, surprised.

“Aitana wants to get engaged for at least two years before we even think about marriage, but--- “Jimin admitted quietly, “I don’t know if that’s what I want now. I’m 24 years old and my career just started off... I’m not ready for that kind of commitment.”

Namjoon gave him a knowing but sad look, “Yeah... relationships aren’t easy you can ask me, but Jimin you’ll figure it out soon. Maybe a little distance from her will give you clarity...is good, she’s away so that you can get clarity on your future. ”

Jimin didn’t respond immediately. How can he confess that he was immediately attracted to Namjoons’ little sister? When he saw her again, it was like the wind was blowing his mental sails away. Jimin feels like throwing the bottle against the walls out of frustration. His heart will not be safe.

Sully's physical attraction is driving him insane, and he doesn't know how to deal with it. He glanced across the room to the gorgeous Sully, who sat at the girls' table and looked relaxed and animated as she looked over the menu. Her full lips were in a cute pout as she read through the menu. She and Lucia had already ordered, but her mind was already on a dessert.

She looked up, as if she could feel his gaze on her, and their eyes met. For a moment, the noise and chatter around them seemed to fade away. A strong magnetic force, an undeniable connection, drew them together. He was aware he was on dangerous ground.

Jimin's heart raced like never before as he forcibly turned his gaze from the temptations, breaking the magical trance. He must kill this growing attraction, no matter what!

.....

At the girls’ table, the mood was light, cheerful and relaxed as Rosé turned to Sully with a warm smile, “So, girl what are you up to these days? Weren’t you always true A-grade student in your year 1 class? Joonie aways bragged about your achievements. What a proud bro you have. So, what’s your plan after university?” she looked genuinely interested in your life. The server came to take Rose's order and you and Lucia asked him to bring your food together.

Sully smiled humbly with affection, “That my Joonie... I’ve completed my journalism degree. I’ll graduate after the summer break, and I’m planning to work as a sports journalist at a newspaper. I’ve already received an offer for a three-month internship and maybe a permanent position.”

“Wow girl, that’s amazing!” Rosé exclaimed, genuinely. “Namjoon must be so proud of you. You even won essay competitions at school. Wow!” She smiles widely with admiration in her eyes. That moment Sully almost became breathless as she looked into Rosé eyes that reminded her of her cold brother.

Sully chuckled nervously, “Joon is... although he’d rather want me to get a job at a sports publication and stay permanently in Argentina were he can watch out for me.”

Lucia leaned in, her eyes shone bright, “That will be so cool, Niki and I are planning to buy an apartment here. It’s perfect place for his career, and I love the energy and vibe of this city.” She exclaimed with excitement.

Rosé nodded thoughtfully before adding, “Wow good for you Lucia, I’m dating someone for almost five months now, but it’s still early in the relationship to say if it’ll turn into something serious.”

Her sole attention turned back to Sully, “So Sully? You are so stunning right now. What about you? Are you seeing anyone special...and don't tell me you're single?”

Sully’s smile faded slightly as she shook her head furiously. “Oh, my word! No, I’m truly a single Pringle. And honestly, I think I might be single for a very, very long time.”She softly snickers.

Both Rosé and Lucia looked at her in shock, “Why would you say that ?... you’ll never be single...not here in Argentina?” Rosé asked, perplexed. Gosh, Sully is gorgeous, some of the single team members must have an eye on her.

Sully just snort.

There was an awkward silence, but it was broken by the servers who brought their orders. The food smells divine. She'd ordered ribs and steak with lots of side veggie dishes. They all thank the server. Rosé ordered grilled steak dish also and Lucia opt for grilled chicken with a piece of steak with chips.

Sully hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the cutlery on the table, “Er well, I just don’t think I’d make suitable wife material. My promising career is my priority... and er, I have... some physical limitations,” Sully’s’ voice crack as she just paid attention in cutting her soft medium rare steak.

Both girls stared at Sully with shocked expressions, “What?!” Lucia exclaimed, “Why would you say that?...you’ll never be single for long...because you're very beautiful?”

Rosé tilted her head curiously, very much surprise, “Are you okay though? I remember hearing from an old class friend of mine that you were in the hospital in year 3, grade 12. She said it was for almost three entire weeks.”

Sully nodded, her eyes guarded, “I...er have a genetic chronic condition since birth. I’m also very anemic so I felt weak, and my doctor had me stay in the hospital for a week to recover and undergo intensive treatment. I’m okay now.” Sully smiles softly at them.

How can she tell them that she has a chronic kidney disease, and she had to go through transfusions and treatments every now and then? Then in her senior year a serious infection spread to her healthier kidney, and she had to stay in hospital for more days under observation. She'll never burden any love interest with such knowledge.

Her whole life was a series of hospital and clinic stays. Namjoon helped out with her expensive hospital bills. He is taking care of her to ease the burden from their single dad. Sometimes she feels so guilty for bringing so much inconvenience to Mr Kim’s who adopted her as a newborn baby. Her health problems were more of a burden for them. To crown it all, she was always in need of the rarest blood.

Lucia’s face fell slightly, her concern evident, “I’m so sorry, Sully. I’m glad you healthy even if you still look extremely pale.”

Rosé face suddenly brightened, “Well, I’m glad you’re okay now because you’re too beautiful to let anything hold you back in life.”

Lucia nodded firmly and agree with Rosé, “And the right guy will love all of you, even if you’re not 100% healthy. Love covers all weaknesses. That’s what real genuine love is."

You just shrugged.

They started to enjoy their food and drinks. Rosé told them about her mom’s fashion show , where she will also be a model and took out two black and gold VIP tickets from her brown Chanel purse and hand it to them as her VIP guests. Lucia was squealing so loudly, Sully just chuckled and thanked a beaming Rosé. She never attended a fashion show before and the brand  'Silueta' was synonymous with chic and modern fashion.

But then Sullys mind drifted in another direction as she gave them a small smile. They don’t know that her heart remains fixed on the boy she loved since school days, and what breaks her heart is that her 'ideal' man dislikes her—or so it seems. She didn’t know how to avoid this messed up emotions that was threatening to pull her into a storm of love and angst. His whole attitude was so confusing.

She then discreetly glanced toward Jimin’s table. He was laughing at something Namjoon had said, but he looked tense in his posture, almost a shadow in his eyes. She quickly looked down, she could sense his gaze on her and she was so tempted to meet his gaze. He turned his head slightly, their eyes meeting once more. Gosh, so much confusing emotions.

In that moment, Sully knew her heart betrayed her, reminding her of the feelings she couldn’t let go of. Her grip on her knife tightened, her smile faltering ever so slightly. Across the room, Jimin became breathless, and he swiftly looked away again, and Sully couldn’t decipher his emotions that overshadowed his eyes once more.

What is happening to her...to them?

.....

A/n: A very awkward encounter between Jimin and Sully.

Thank you for the reads and votes. Don't forget to comment if you like the chapter.

1. Do you think Sully must stay away from Jimin?

2. What do you think about Rosé?

3. Do you think Sullys condition might be life -threatening?