" Jeon?"
Jungkook cursed under his breath,eyes squeezing shut as his lips thinned to a hard line. ' Fuck! Fuck! Why couldn't he just ignore me?' he repeated to himself,his head throbbing with the weight of a headache. The helmet groaned under the pressure of his grip as he pivoted,rage simmering just beneath the surface to face the one person he had no patience for.
" Mr Kim."
" Leaving so soon,Jeon?" Taehyung giot a glimpse of his expensive wristwatch."Your shift isn't over and you're bailing out? Not very professional of you!" Taehyung curted,a vicious,sinister smeer coating his lips and a haughty look in his eyes.
Jungkook dismissed the gut- wrenching desire to serve him an insult sharp enough to draw blood then do it properly with his fist so he grinned from ear to ear and with a honey coated voice he asserted." I am a professional Mr Kim. Do-yun told me to leave because I'm coming down with a cold and I need rest."
Taehyung,collected and poised,showed no hint of unease.Why should he? His attention stayed elsewhere and the disregard rolled off him without a second thought.
" Then you should go. The last thing we need is you infecting the rest."
" How thoughtful of you,sir."A dry snort escaped him,the smile on his face never wavering.
"You should consider the welfare of your coworkers. We can't afford to lose them because of your carelessness Jeon." With a biting retort he dropped his arms and shoved one in his pocket.
"It's nice to see how the capital worries about the employee."
" I'm running a profitable business Jeon. I make money and I can't shut down the club because of you or anyone else."
" Money.. that's all you care about..good to know what money does to a person."
Taehyung smirked with casual defiance,as he raised a brow and closed the space between them in three smooth steps,daring him to react." And what is that?"he asked,voice low and edged with challenge,eyes flicking over him.
" They say that money reflects a person's true personality,increases his egotistical,narcissistic attitude,brings out his worst self, and emphasizes his flaws. Convinces him he can buy anything, that everything is for sale or has a price.Especially when that person was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. In your case,money hasn't improved your.. personality." He was being extremely audacious and downright without considering how it might affect his job but sure,blame it on his illness or maybe the fact that biting his tongue was never his strong suit.
A humorless chuckle escaped Taehyung,laced with bitterness at the false image he had built around him. Who could really blame him? It was his own mess to begin with. Always flaunting his wealth,his lavish lifestyle and the status that came with it. Oh and let's not forget the endless flirting and the filth he somehow passed off as charm.
"If that's what you'd like to believe about me, it's your problem. I won't try to convince you of the opposite." Why would he tell him he was raised in a slum in Daegu, coming from a poor family,striving to survive? There were days the food wasn't sufficient to feed the whole family and he couldn't count the times he went to bed on an empty stomach.
" I'm speaking from what I see. What you choose to show me."
" You should learn to see beneath the surface. Don't judge a book by its cover, Jeon."he gave him a direct hint. He didn't appreciate being called spoiled and ungrateful for his accomplishments in front of Seojoon especially by a judgemental,rude boy nearly half his age.
" I would but it would take up a lot of my time and my time is too precious to waste..sir." Jungkook highlighted,a hollow smile stretched across his face as he looked at him.
Taehyung bit back a response, choosing silence instead.. He wasn't in the mood for another quarrel or volleyed clever jabs ,the tension between them, thick enough to taste."Go home,Jeon."
Seojoon's gaze moved between them,slow and deliberate. Whatever was going on wasn't just surface-level. There was something hidden..Something pulsing beneath the words,not just from irritation or animosity. A current stronger than mere dislike.
Taehyung masked it well but the disappointment bled through the cracks at Jungkook's hasty conclusions. The younger looked detached,almost superior but his eyes..his eyes hinted something else. Something he couldn't quite put his fingers on.
No, it was far deeper than just a rivalry. It was obvious there was tension between them.. and a cocky smirk curled his lips,bold and unapologetic.
He inched forward,shrinking the space between them,standing by his friend's left side and coughed,gaining their attention."Excuse me..since my friend doesn't have the courtesy of introducing us" he stretched his hand." I guess it's up to me. I'm Park Seojoon, Taehyung 's best friend and associate. You must be Jungkook."
A flicker of surprise made Jungkook jolt,just barely and his cheeks tinged with pink,a telltale sign of flustered astonishment because Taehyung hadn't mentioned his name during their conversation but referred to him as 'Jeon' so how did he know his first name?
Kim was talking about him? Maybe..?Plus he was disrespectful and cynical to his boss in the presence of a third party. Colour boomed across his face again before he could stop it.
" Nice meeting you,Mr Park. I'm Jeon Jungkook." He accepted the handshake and bowed out of respect.
" You work at the club, right?"
" I'm a bartender."
" It must be tough. It's not an easy job. Fixing drinks, standing up all night, listening to people complaining about their lives."
Jungkook's smile returned,softer this time,his eyes illuminating with a sudden glow. He genuinely smiled at the man." Not tougher than any other. It has its ups and downs but I like what I'm doing."
" Even being a kind of a confessor for lost,troubled souls?"
" It's interesting to understand how people view and deal with their problems when drinking and if I can help them see them from a different perspective, it's useful."
A quiet sense of awe settled in Seojoon's chest as he studied him. It wasn't only his stunning beauty but also his scintillating responses. He was fit and muscular, piercings on both his ears,his brow and lips, he could observe the tattoos on his hand and it wasn't easy to hide his bad ass attitude but it contradicted his amazingly handsome features and bright smile!
Seojoon was impressed..too much so! Taehyung hated the lost look on his friend's face. There was a hollowness in his eyes he couldn't stand to witness. His gaze lingered a second too long and the bitter sting in his chest was unmistakable. It wasn't jealousy,he told himself but the way his stomach churned said otherwise.
The sweet,caring tone of his voice and the sparkles in his black eyes. For a man like Seojoon who was straight,his gaze exhibited an admiration that made Taehyung uncomfortable in a way that felt too personal as if he saw too much without uttering a single word. He felt like a third wheel between them.
" Seojoon." he chimed in." We should let Jeon go home. Take care of himself so that he could return to us throwing more insults at the wicked 'capital' and at the evil person paying his salary."His voice cynical and gruffy,his syare cut through Jungkook,sharp and deliberate,leaving something that burnt in his chest,long after he looked away.
Taehyung should have known better than to preserve his calmness and not give a damn about his opinion. He hadn't exactly shown the best of character or given the best impression from the start. Jungkook thought of him as corrupt, dipped in sins and kinky as hell..well he wasn't wrong about the last one! And a superficial man whose money could buy anything and anyone.
" Fuck you asshole."Jungkook murmured through gritted teeth,breath shallow and ragged, trying and failing to keep his rage contained, striving not to beat the shit out of him! Thankfully Taehyung didn't hear him.
" I should get home." Jungkook tossed his thundering head to the side,his headache slowly returning and bowed." Pleasure meeting you Mr Park.. goodnight." He rushed to his bike,parked at the left side of the alley,without expecting a reply,put on his helmet and left.
Seojoon glanced sideways, focusing on Taehyung and there was a dark amusement in his grin both playful and predatory." I can definitely see why you considered him a challenge,buddy. The guy's smoking hot!" He shook his head when his friend struck him with a wounded up look.
" Drop it Seojoon. Not in the mood!" Taehyung returned to his car, breathing heavily and walked to the driver's door,opening it but didn't get in.
" You're overreacting!"
" Do I? You were all over him, flirting. Seojoon you're straight, remember?"
The man stood by the passenger's door." I could turn gay for him! I mean..did you see him? The tattoos,the piercing,those scorching,big eyes..Oh God! The guy is a masterpiece!"
A churning knot took refuge in his stomach,his throat dry and fettered as he swallowed and every muscle in his body tensed up." Cut it out! Get in and let's go. We've got better things to do than to talk about him." Taehyung needed to flee,go back to his company,bury himself in work and not think about that man..ever again. His friend wasn't helping. It was like he was doing it on purpose,just to spike him.
"Jealous, are we?" Seojoon studied him with a critical squint.
" Of what? The guy doesn't give a shit. He was being polite. Don't overthink."
" He's giving you a hard pass and it pisses you off,buddy."
" Screw you! I can have him if I want to."
" But you said it's too risky,Tae." he reminded him,his undertone torturously snotty.
" That's why I'm throwing in the towel. He's not worth losing my reputation for a dumbass like Jeon!"he bantered back in the same tone.He sat in his seat, fastened his belt and pressed the engine start button." Coming?"
Seojoon scoffed and got in, determined to keep on bagging him the entire ride.
_________
Jungkook stretched his arms, sucking in the light, morning breeze and the redolent scent of freshly baked bread and cookies,filling his lungs. After a week of resting and recovering from his cold,he was finally outside at his favourite bakery,getting delicacies for breakfast. Jimin and Yoongi were waiting for him at the apartment and he was waiting for Jihoo to finish her shopping.
Propped against the seat of his Harley,one leg stretched onto the curb,the other bent at the knee on the footsest,he looked like he had all the time in the world. That one week off from the awful club and that asshole were the best!
And although, he was stuck in bed with Jimin acting like mother Teresa and informing the hyungs for his condition, resulting in Jin coming all the way from Busan to' take good care of his little devil' as he put it,his recovery was quick and full of his hyung's delicious food and old remedies.
Jin had departed the previous day,instructing Jimin on what to do and Jungkook was free to enjoy two more days of relaxation,reap the benefits of being carefree before going back to work.
" Well..well! That's a bolt from the blue!" Amid the chaos of the street,a husky voice cut through the noise, low, steady and impossible to ignore.
Jungkook internally cursed his fucken luck, recognising the voice, inundated by a vile feeling and fury. Insufferable fury! He kept his gaze forward,biting down the urge to snap, irritation simmering just beneath the surface.His thumbs hanging from the watch pockets of his tight,black jeans." Mr Kim..fancy seeing you here."
Towering over him, Taehyung cut off his view completely,his presence,bold almost suffocating and that smirk? Infuriatingly confident!. His looks were totally different from what Jungkook was used to seeing. Washed, light blue jeans, a tight,v-neck yellow-mustard T-shirt, highlighting his broad chest and shoulders, combined to a brown, leather,bike jacket. He had to admit he was kind of.. handsome. Overbearing, obnoxious but good looking.
" It's my favourite bakery. I frequently come for the delicious cookies and strawberry pastries. You?"
" Me,what?"
" What are you doing here? I presume you've recovered?"
" Still standing.."he drawled , sarcasm curling around his words like smoke. He had no intention to tell him why he was there as it wasn't any of his fucken business.
" Barely."came a quick reply,one eyebrow raised and tone dry as dust.
"Your eyesight is flawed,along with your other senses!" he piped up, brimming with anger for running into him and ruining his good moods.
" You really should try to ' fix' your bad mouth Jeon. It could get you into trouble…deep..deep trouble..""He stepped closer,his sultry gaze checking him from top to bottom.
" When you fix your attitude, I'll fix my bad mouth!" the younger drawled,getting the hump and lugging his words.
" You're a real piece of work! You never know when to back off and keep that filthy, pretty mouth of yours shut!" Learning forward, bridging the gap,he whispered with a soft lisp,his breath brushing the younger's ear, deliberate and intimate." Is it filthy when it does other things..Jeon?"
Taehyung was way too close for comfort and Jungkook fought the urge to recoil,bile rising as the musky odor hit him,paired with that smug, curling smirk. His ocean eyes stripping his soul naked and rosy lips curved into a sinister grin. Surprisingly, the air turned thick,almost suffocating.
He found himself short of breath,not just from the sudden heaviness but from the unsettling realisation,if only for a brief moment,he had been staring at those lips and he didn't understand why…
'Snap out of it dummy! What the hell are you thinking ?' an internal voice in his head scolded him and his eyes snapped away, settling on the distant figures at the bus stop as if they suddenly demanded his attention. A wave of irritation burnt in his chest. Why the hell was he reacting like this? It was Kim fucken Taehyung!
" I'm trying really hard to be nice.. You're not helping and I don't appreciate you.. flirting with me in the middle of the street." The moment he spoke the words,he instantly regretted them. It wasn't what he meant to say. It sounded wrong!
" Does this mean I can flirt with you anywhere else?"he asked teasingly.
" No! Of course not! It's not what I meant. Don't get any ideas!"He hurriedly responded, shifting his head to the left to avoid any eye contact."Don't you have somewhere to go?"
Taehyung laughed and his striking handsome face lit up,making Jungkook swallow hard,the lump in his throat refusing to bulge and heat crept up his face ,staining his cheeks pink and fueling his frustration, squeezing his pockets with his fingers, an odd dangle in his stomach as well as a involuntary heartbeat.He didn't know why and had no interest in finding out. He wanted him gone! Gone! If there was a way he could vanish Jungkook was praying for it.
" As you can see. " he pointed at the long queue on the pavement." it's packed. I'll have to wait."
" Go wait someplace else."
" And miss out on your charming presence?"
" I'll survive!."he threw back,vexed and in a pique." Besides, I'm waiting for someone."
" Interesting! So I can't persuade you to go out with me for coffee."
Jungkook's eyes popped out." Not even close!"
" Then perhaps take you home..it will be an excellent opportunity to..get to know each other better.. I'd love to know more about you..Jungkook."
The younger felt the blush deepen and clenched his jaw,forcing his expression into something colder,anything to disguise the heat. The man caught it,eyes glinting with mischief."Cute"he lisped, just loud enough to make it worse.
Jungkook cursed through clenched teeth,his jaw grinding so tight it hurt. His fists balled to the sides,nails digging into his palms but he didn't notice. That man was the definition of insufferable! Always appearing when least wanted. Always pushing the same buttons that set his nerves alight. He swore if he had a shred of control over the bloody universe, he'd erase him completely. Just gone.. no more smug smirks,no more loaded hints,no more presence like a hurricane refusing to pass.
" Get lost!" he murmured under his breath,too low to be heard,loud enough to feel real.
What the hell was taking that girl so long? Were they baking the bread right now? He was bubbling inside.
" I think I'll pass. My date is inside."he eventually clipped at the man standing too damn close.
Taehyung showed no grudge as if he hadn't heard a word he said and continued to stare at him like a starving predator." And you let her stand in line?" He wagged his head in disbelief." I thought you were a gentleman, Jungkook."
As he opened his mouth to tell him to fuck off,a hand gripped gently on his arm." I'm all set,Kook." The young girl,not more than twenty,in a short floral dress,sneakers and a beige, leather jacket raised the bags she was holding,cracking a smile." Sorry for the delay. This place is swamped."
" It's ok,baby." He smiled back,got a hold of the bag,tied it to the back of the bike and gave her the spare helmet,leaving a peck on her forehead." Hop on."
The girl took a good look at the stranger and bowed." Hello. Are you Kook's friend? I'm Jihoo..his.."
" My date." Without missing a beat Jungkook cut in,winking at her and nodding ever so slightly, urging her to play along.
" Mmmm..yeah..his date. And you?" Jihoo caught the wink,lips curling into a knowing smirk as she picked up the cue.She had absolutely no idea what was going on but she went along with it.
" His boss. Jeon works for me."he spoke with a chill in his voice,gaze hard and voice harder,casting a brief glance at Jungkook just enough to gauge his reaction. Jungkook,who was already on his Harley with a satisfied grin on his juicy lips, didn't even flinch but remained still, unreadable like the glance hadn't registered at all.
" You're Mr Kim."
" You've heard of me?" Though his tone was stern,the slight hitch in his voice gave him away. He hadn't seen that coming.
" From Jimin hyung." Jihoo offered a quick,composed explanation,bowing with respect before climbing onto the bike,her arms wrapping gently around Jungkook." Bye Mr. Kim!"
Jungkook threw a bombastic side look at the man and nodded." See you around mr.Kim!"and he left while Taehyung stood there with a dumb expression on his heated face. He certainly didn't expect Jungkook to have a girlfriend and was caught off guard but he shouldn't have. He knew nothing about his love life and Jungkook was bound to go on dates with women but that was a girl. A very young girl.
His breath hitched brooding over the two of them together,the way she was so clingy on him, hugging him and his hands balled into fists of rage. He had to give up for his own good yet every time he saw him,his resolve crumbled faster than he'd like to admit,replaced by a daring smirk and shameless flirting.
He let out a muffled groan,gabbering his teeth till they hurt and dismissing the idea of waiting in line,he crossed the street and drove off.
________
Jungkook parked his bike in the parking lot,got off,removed his helmet and helped Jihoo. Going up to the apartment from the stairs,the girl seemed rather sceptical.
" Oppa..why did you lie to your boss? You said I was your date."
Jungkook scouled, thinking about that creep."Aren't you?" He pinched her fluffy cheeks.
" No! I already have a boyfriend, Kook. Have you forgotten?"she giggled.
" Mmmm..nice boy that.."
Jihoo smacked his head, laughing." Mark!"
" Mark it is!"
" You're avoiding my question Kook. Why?" With a sharp inhale in her voice,she insisted, confident,clear and completely unapologetic.
" I don't like him. He's arrogant, self-centred,evil,a pompous ass and.. hideous!"
" Kook, are you blind? The guy is gorgeous! He's a real hank! A certified heartthrob!One of those you read in romantic novels! I mean..Wow! His face,his muscular body,his hands.." she sighed." Have you noticed his hands? Long,veiny..oh! "
The man gave her a sideway glance, climbing up the stairs. He blinked once,then looked away with a grunt,masking his brief surprise that crossed his face at her reaction,clearly unimpressed by the interruption and the way it soured his mood." Hank or not, he's still a pain.He's gross. He's flirting provocatively all the time..and makes disgusting hints..and he's getting on my nerves!"
Jihoo pursed her pink,glossy lips, grappling to keep herself from laughing." He's got the hots for you!"
" I'd rather he didn't. I hate men like him, boasting about money, thinking everyone is for sale and using their power to exploit people."
" So,you don't like him."
" Absolutely not!" he barked,his protest sharp and unwavering." All ego,no substance. He struts like the world owes him something just because he's got more money than sense and right now he's spending it all on testing my patience." They had reached their floor and stood in front of the girl's apartment. " Thanks for helping and give my love to your mum." He placed a tender kiss on her right cheek and handed her a paper box from the bag.
" I will Kook. Come by for dinner and bring Jimin too." She entered her flat and the man opened the door only to be attacked by a fuming Jimin, snatching the bag from his hand.
" What took you so long? Were you flirting with that girl at the cashier again?"
" When do I do that?" He followed Jimin in the kitchen where Yoongi was sitting on one of the white chairs,peeling a tangerine.
" Every time we go."
" There you go again! Drama queen much?. I'm being friendly." Jungkook replied, heading straight to the coffee machine to make iced Americano." I gave Jihoo a ride at the bakery and the place was packed so I had to wait."
" Stop making excuses." Jimin snubbed at him and Yoongi laughed at their childish quarrel.
" Jimin can get cranky when he's hungry." Yoongi stated, eating a piece of his favourite fruit.
" He's whining about everything." Jungkook agreed." The helmet,food,sleep,work.."
Jimin smacked his head and continued taking out the triple, chocolate cookies and stuffed bread from the bag,placing them on the plates."Gonna smack you again if you don't put a zip on it,Kook!"
" Gotta to reach me first..shorty!"Jungkook stuck out his tongue and Jimin was boiling mad at the rude, unjustified comment and began throwing tantrums at his brother.
" Oh great! Here we go again"." Yoongi murmured, shaking his head like a disappointed dad watching his kids glue forks to a ceiling fan.Like clockwork, just as predictable as ever."Hey! Hey! Cut it out,boys! He exclaimed, whistling and gaining their attention." Hungry person here!"
"Buckle up,baby! It's only just beginning!" the comment flew out of Jimin's mouth,laced with sass and zero mercy,landing on poor Yoongi,who was there for a quiet breakfast,like a slap wrapped in silk.
Jimin flipped a white tablecloth at Jungkook who grabbed it in the air with his right hand and grinned." Not much of a shooter!" Then he poured the coffee inside their glasses filled with ice,stirred them and set them on the table where Jimin had taken the breakfast.
Jungkook sat opposite the couple, feeling like the third wheel, grabbed some bread stuffed with matcha cream and a cookie and started eating.
" What do you wanna do today?" Yoongi asked them,taking a generous sip of his coffee.
" Movies and burgers?" Jimin suggested." Because nothing says romance like grease and explosions." he added playfully ,hands raised in exaggerated innocence." Since we're not working tonight, it'd be nice to spend the day together."
Jungkook swallowed his bite and bent his right leg on the chair." I'd rather go for drinks."
Jimin huffed but the amused glint in his brown eyes betrayed him." Oh come on!Just admit you wanna go girl hunting and drag us along for the ride."
" Nope..I simply refuse to be stuck in the back seats of the cinema,in the dark with you lovebirds making out! It's embarrassing!"
" Why is that?"
" You're eating each other's mouths,giggling and moaning! Everyone stares!"
Jimin blew a huff." We're in love! That's what people do when they enjoy each other's company, you know!"
" But I'm on a solo career for now!" Jungkook reminded him, finishing his bread and getting his hands on the big,round cookie." Go without me. Cool. I'll stay home. Alone. Slowly wasting away. No big deal. My last days of freedom!"
" You really hate that place,Kook." Yoongi pointed out, biting on the cookie in his hand.
" The money is good but the rest.." he exhaled sharply,head shaking in annoyance.
" Kim..your problem is Kim. Still giving you a hard time?" Yoongi asked, knowing the answer and how much Jungkook hated his shameless behaviour.Kim was bi and extremely dominant,Kook was straight or so he thought, so the combination of the two of them together,in the same place was explosive.
" Don't get me started with that asshole!" He got shivers thinking about him and their previous encounter. How the hell did he bump into him out of the blue? Why did he have to see him and ruin his good mood? That guy was everywhere! Like he was stalking him!
" Don't let him get to you,Kook. Act nice,do your job,finish your shift and leave that shitty place out of your life the moment you step out." Yoongi advised him. He had been working in that club for almost two years and the things he had seen and heard were despicable,making his stomach twist in revulsion. He was a security guard and the filth he had to endure was gut wrecking.
The younger shrugged his shoulders, munching on his lower lip." I hate him,hyung..I see him and I wanna beat him to death. He makes me sick..that smirk is driving me berserk!" He couldn't for the life of him understand how a person can be so corrupt and grotesque by the power of his money and prestige. He felt pity for those boys and girls who had the misfortune of sharing his bed. His stomach curled at the thought..
" Kook? Kook!" Jimin threw a piece of bread to his direction,making him flinch.
" What?"
" Are you lost again? I asked you a freaking question."
" Didn't hear you. What was the question?"
" Did something happen when you were out?"
Jungkook was in no mood to start a conversation about that obnoxious man and he lied." Nope! I'm cool."
Obviously Jimin didn't buy it, probably because Jungkook went out happy like a clam and came back looking like a wet cat. And it wasn't the long queue or the waiting that was responsible. " Cool? If that" he lifted his hand, pointing at his face." is cool then I give up!"
The younger one darted his gaze and focused on his delicious cookie." Think what you like. I don't care. Huss and let me enjoy my breaky!"
While he was munching on his cookie,the couple exchanged bizarre looks without speaking till breakfast was done and Yoongi brought tonight's subject up.
" Kook,we could go to the movies,grab a bite to eat and then go for a drink. We won't embarrass you,I promise. We'll behave!"
" You won't eat my friend?" Jungkook raised a brow in disbelief.
" Promise I won't. I'll wait until I get him home." Yoongi babbled,giving him a gummy smile.
Jungkook scratched his head, pursing his plump lips." Fine.. I'll take your word for it..but if I see you groping each other's asses I'm out of there in a jiff!"
________
Yoongi kept his word as a perfect gentleman and after the movies and burgers,they ended up at a nightclub,a normal one,having drinks. The couple was talking and giggling and Jungkook was too busy checking out an amazingly beautiful woman at the bar, exchanging looks and smiles. At some point he found the courage to approach her and buy her a drink.
Aespa was in modelling, travelling the world for photoshoots,having finished Public Relations and Management at university. Smart and beautiful! Jungkook's ideal combination. The discrete flirting and the chemistry between them was evident and after a long time the man was deluged with anticipation and joy. One drink turned into two and somehow their hands kept finding each other, promising smiles, discreet flirting and just like that the air shifted.Jungkook felt ready for the next step. Getting her phone number.
Piece of cake! Aespa was definitely interested in him. Jungkook was so caught up in the moment,he failed to notice a set of eyes intensely staring at him from the background. When the woman left and they arranged to meet the next day, Jungkook went to the restroom.
He was washing his hands, humming a song,all smiling only to sense a presence behind him. He cropped up his head and..
" We should stop meeting like this,Jeon."
Bagger! Him again! Why was it so freaking hard to catch a break? Was that asshole stalking him? It was the second time in a day! How much more could a person take? Kim fucken Taehyung was standing behind him,hands in his pockets,a perpetual sneer on his lips,eyes lancing his soul.
The younger's face scrunched, throwing a curve at him as he dried his hands at the machine next to him." If I were leery Mr Kim, I'd say you're stalking me."
Taehyung instantly smiled as he rubbed his jaw." It was purely a coincidence Jeon. I was out with some colleagues celebrating and I happened to notice you.. flirting with that indifferent woman."
Jungkook turned around, coming face to face with that smuck." Indifferent to you and your likings..not to me. She's exactly my type."
" Seriously? Didn't think your standards were that..basic.I thought you had taste." He shook his head in disappointment." You can do better than that.."
"Watch your mouth! You're done throwing your little insults or should I wait while you embarrass yourself more? Our tastes,thank God, are totally opposite." he tartly replied, a plastic smile stretched across his face,more performance than emotion. That devilish smirk appeared again and Jungkook seethed in fury.
A crooked grin spread across Taehyung's face." So, that's how we're playing it? All right then!"
" Please, I'd be bored before you land your first, decent insult!" He let out a low, mocking chuckle.
" Are you so passionate in bed too, Jungkook? Rough and fierce?"
" None of your Goddamn business. I won't discuss my sex life with you!"
" So you do have a sex life? I find you too edgy and talking from experience that indicates lack of.. activity or poor quality." A straight to the point hint from amused Taehyung.
" I'm not a fucking virgin!"
" Never said you were."
" I have fucked plenty of women and I'm edgy because you..you make me mad!" he blurted out unintentionally and instantly regretted his big mouth.
" Oh did I touch a nerve? I'm flattered. Glad to know I stir up that much passion in you!"His musky scent blended with the alcohol and caused a wave of dizziness in the younger."I'm turned on when I see those dazzling eyes burning with fury."
Taehyung took a step forward,resting both hands on the sink, trapping him between them. He then hunkered down,lisping in his ears in a raucous voice."You're ignorant Jungkook. Naive and blind to what your body craves..no woman can make your blood boil in your veins..your body tremble and your mind fuzzy..than the touch of a man who yearns for you.."
Jungkook tried to keep composed but the audible swallow gave him away. A heavy lump caught in his throat while his stomach twisted itself into a mess of nerves, leaving him restless and raw. The worst of all there was that strange,unwelcomed fluttering in his gut he couldn't explain but chose to ignore.
He didn't like the emotion.It made him feel vulnerable and weak. Oddly his eyes were glued on the man's lips.. again.Rosy, luscious,split. It reminded him of a bow..a Cupid's bow.
Taehyung's touch was featherlight,thumb skimming the outline of his lip, intimate and precise. It sent a shiver straight through Jungkook's composure, unwelcome and unwanted. He pulled back slightly, clenching his jaw, furious, scolding himself for letting it get to him.
His hands grabbed the sink behind him,brushing Taehyung 's and for a second..a split second he was lost, caught in the pull of those eyes,that voice,the closeness. He hated,no he detested that feeling. Detested the way it chipped at his defenses and made him forget who he was supposed to be. So he blinked it away, letting a scoff mask the flicker of weakness.
Taehyung saw the shiver,felt the eay Jungkook stiffened under his touch. His eyes darkened dangerously,voice rough with knowledge." You keep fighting it but your body already gave you away." he said as his thumb slid along his jaw.
" Don't flatter yourself. That was just from disgustion. But hey,if you want to take credit for it,be my guest."
" Disgusted,huh? Then why are you still standing here? Why don't you leave?" He arched a brow,taking a step closer,eyes sparkling with challenge.
" Oh please! My body reacts the same way to moldy leftovers. That doesn't mean I want a taste!"
" You're so fucken beautiful Jungkook..a piece of art..a masterpiece." he murmured against his shoulder,his voice husky, barely a whisper.
Jungkook's heart unwillingly leaped,his fingers squeezing the sink.Why the fuck couldn't he move? Shove him? Punch him? Why was he numbed?" Step back. I'm warning you Mr.Kim." His voice low,strained with tension,more like a threat.
He didn't mean it to sound like a whisper,cool air mixed with a strong,musky scent greeted his flustered face. Brown hair flopped over Taehyung 's brows as he moved his head slightly,his gaze heavy and piercing,who seemed at sixes and sevens.
" Is that what you want..love? Want me to go?"
The nickname looped Jungkook even more. That bloody man was a menace,a threat and definitely lacked morals. The word love coming from his mouth sounded filthy. But what the hell was that unbearable heat in his body? That strange flutter in his chest?" Yeah. Let me go or you'll get in serious trouble."
" We're not at the club Jungkook.. I'm not your boss and you're not my employee here."
" It doesn't change a damn thing. I still work for you and it's sexual harassment." He gritted his teeth,still holding tight at the sink." I don't want you. I'm not interested in your silly games. Save them for your fuck boys.. sir."
Taehyung sighed." I'm not doing anything bad."
" You're making me uncomfortable and mad."
" That's no reason for you to sue me."
" You keep insisting on something that will never happen. Not in a million years."
The man ran his tongue over his rosy lips not moving an inch." Not my fault. You being irresistibly gorgeous makes me lose control. Makes me wanna kiss your lips till they bleed..bend you over the sink and dive inside you..as I hold your perfect neck."
His words seemed to have woken up Jungkook's logic and wrath so he lunged at him off, gabbering his teeth,vexed at his boldness."Don't you dare come near me again. I ain't joking. Keep your filthy thoughts and shameless words for your boy toys. Now get out of my way!" He pushed him aside, Taehyung took a few steps to the side, the younger adjusted his clothes and marched out looking damn cool,despite the unwanted thunging in his chest.
Taehyung sneered, shaking his head." Such a brat! I'm gonna tame you Jeon Jungkook.. you'll be begging me to fuck you."
Jungkook returned to his table and despite his effort to keep calm and look cool,his crimson red face indicated the opposite. He was mixed up,winded up and what had started as a wonderful night ended in a disaster. And it was the least of his worries because something else was bugging him.
Walking out of the restroom, to his horror,he realised something that shook him to the core!No! No freaking way! He refused to even think that! It was prepostreous! The only positive from tonight was his date with Aespa and he needed the distraction. It was the only thing that mattered to him.
" I'm leaving." he announced to Jimin and Yoongi as soon as he sat down.
" It's still early, Kook. Let's stay a bit longer." Jimin said, hidden in his boyfriend's arms.
" You stay. I'm getting out of here." He grabbed his black,leather jacket, crammed down the rest of his whiskey and jumped up. He couldn't be in the same place as that bastard.
" Lost interest,huh?"
Jungkook's cheeks flushed pink." What the hell do you mean? Was it possible they saw Kim coming after him?
" The beauty at the bar. I saw her leaving.Did you get her number?"
" Damn right I did. We have a date tomorrow."
" Let's finish our drinks and we'll come with you." Yoongi stated, carefully observing his expression.
" Nope. You lovebirds keep doing whatever you're doing..have fun and see you tomorrow." Before they got the chance to react Jungkook was off.
" What happened to him?" Jimin wondered out loud, turning hks head to face Yoongi.
" Kook being Kook. He'll be fine."
Jimin wasn't so sure. I mean Kook had always been weird and often had mood swings but the moment his eyes caught a glimpse of a tall, bulky man at the back of the club,next to the bar he knew. Kim Taehyung.
_________
The first thing Jungkook did when stepping out of the club was to fight the urge to vomit but the effort gave him cold sweat. He put on his helmet,hopped on his bike and drove off, hoping the cold,night breeze could help him. Tonight was a nightmare! It filled him with tons of stress and anxiety and the only positive thing was his date with Aespa. Something he was looking forward to and a way to distract his attention from what happened.
At some point,he was forced to stop,found a dark alley and relieved himself from the burden in his stomach. He felt much better afterwards so he continued and finally made it home!
_______
The date was beyond his expectations! Aespa was delightful to be around,witty and smart with a great sense of humour. She didn't show any discomfort when he picked her up from her house with his bike. On the contrary she was very excited to ride his 'baby' and didn't care if it messed up her appearance.
Jungkook took her to the Korean restaurant he loved and they had dinner, chatting about their lives. Aespa was from a wealthy family,her parents owned one of the biggest hospitals in Seoul,both doctors and she had an older sister who was married with two children she absolutely adored.
Jungkook avoided talking much about his family or life and he simply said a few things about his hyungs and Jimin. Aespa didn't ask any questions that could make him feel uncomfortable and she was extremely polite. Jungkook thought that despite her wealth she was nothing like those rich, spoiled brats..and Kim's annoying face popped up out of nowhere.
He immediately shook the thought out of his head,jaw tightened as if clenching could erase it. No. No he wouldn't go there. Not again. Not with him.He straightened his spine,masking every trace of vulnerability with a bright smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
Their next stop was a famous ice-cream parlour near river Han. They got two scoops each and strolled along the river. The cool, night breeze whistled gently,blowing lightly on his shiny hair. The sky was painted black but the moonlight was reflecting on the clear waters of the river. Jungkook could feel the stars smiling down on him and his good luck,his heart was calm and at peace.
The river was bustling with people, like every night. Couples were holding hands, kissing under the starry night sky,kids running around, laughing and playing…totally carefree.
" Let's sit." Jungkook pointed at a bench on their right and the woman nodded.
" There's nothing better than eating ice-cream on a cold night admiring this view." Aespa's eyes were gazing at the river,her face lit and the man smiled.
" I prefer admiring your dangerously pretty face.."he said smoothly,flashing a bunny smile,the one he often used more times than he remembered. But even as the words left his mouth,they tasted hollow because deep, deep down,he was struggling to concentrate his mind on her.
She lifted a brow, lips curling into a teasing smile." Flattery? Is that all you've got Kook?" she asked, slightly leaning in." You'll have to do better than that if you want to impress me." Her tone was teasing but her caramel eyes searched his face like she suspected he wasn't all in.
He smirked, cocking his head,a set of untamed bangs covered his forehead." Oh sweetie that wasn't flattery. You haven't seen me try to impress you..yet."
Arspa let out a soft,amused laugh, tilting her head." Alright then!" she moved a little closer."I'm waiting. Impress me." Her voice sounded silk smooth,daring him with a look that confirmed she could play along all night.
Jungkook grinned,eyes gleaming with mischief." Careful what you wish for." He reached for her free hand, brought it up slowly and pressed a kiss to her knuckles,gaze locked on hers." Impressed yet or should I turn up the charm?"
" Is this the part I'm supposed to swoon?"she quipped, sliding from his grasp, deliberately slow." Because honestly,I was expecting something more.. legendary. Go on Casanova! Let's see what you've got!" A straightforward challenge.
Jungkook chuckled low,a glint of naughtiness lighting his eyes, humming." Sweetie, legendary doesn't come until act two. I'm simply warming you up." Lips brushing close to her rar,his breath hot against her skin." Unless you're scared you won't keep up!"
" Oh please Kook! If I wanted fireworks, I'd wait till New year's!" She gave him a playful shove." The night is putting up a show!" She quickly changed the subject." And the Han river.. it's got that charm, dangerous thong going on. Like it knows all the secrets Seoul tries to hide."
He glanced back at her,a half smile on his cherry lips." Fits the mood, right?"
Aespa gave a silent refusal and went back to licking her chocolate ice-cream,making Jungkook's mind have indecent thoughts."Talking about the view Kook!"
" I can't see that when I'm next to a gorgeous woman. Inside out."
" You pay a lot of attention to someone's personality..I can tell."
" It stimulates my mind."
" You thought I was some kind of a mindless bimbo who cares only about her appearance, and doesn't have an ounce of brain. Someone who's interested in partying,having fun and going on shopping sprees, spending her dad's money." she stated in a teasing way.
Jungkook nearly dropped his ice-cream and his cheeks wreathed in a pinkish shade,cringe in embarrassment. The duality of his character could often stunned him..
" Well.." he hesitated."I try not to judge people too quickly and give them the benefit of the doubt." Although in Kim's case,he hurriedly jumped to conclusions the moment he first saw him..' Damn right I did! Because he's a jerk!' his inner voice yelled.
When time came to say goodnight,he lingered by her doorstep,hands casually tucked in his pockets,eyes scanning her gorgeous face as if he was searching for something. There was a small pause,charged with unspoken thoughts then a slow smile appeared on his lips.
" I had a really good time tonight." he stated,his voice a touch lower and softer like he was admitting a secret." Same time on Wednesday?" There was a flicker of something hopeful in his doe eyes, nervous perhaps or a little restless.
Aespa smiled,warm and bright,taking a step closer to Kook. Her slender fingers brushed softly against his arm while she leaned in and pressed a kiss to his lips,tender, tasting like a promise. It lasted for a moment,just enough to make his breath catch.
However,when their lips parted and she pulled back with a bashful chuckle, Jungkook stood still,gaze fixed on her,smile carefully in place.
Oddly..there was no thrill.
No butterflies jiggling.
No rush.
Just a hint of confusion,he buried under charm and habit.
"Looking forward to our next date." he replied smoothly, masking the hollow echo behind his words. He turned back towards his bike,hands still in his pockets,jaw tight.
It wasn't her. Aespa was perfect.
As he got on his Harley,he exhaled deeply, fingers squeezing the hand clutches.
It should have felt right. He wanted it to feel right. She was exactly his type. Lovely, gorgeous,smart, sweet..but there was no sparkle. No fire. Their kiss left no imprint. No heat. Like kissing a memory that wasn't his.
" Why am I doing this?"
Maybe he was chasing the idea of what he was supposed to want. What he desperately needed to want. Trying to outrun something else entirely. Something darker and truer.
His mind uninvited drifted to another face. Sharp eyes,a cocky grin,that infuriating laugh that echoed in his head louder than it ever should. He cursed under his breath. This was ridiculous. He shook his head hard stubbornly trying to rattle the unwelcome thoughts loose. He drove off,the loud purr of the engine, snapping him out of it. The strong,cold wind easing his mind.
" Get a fucken grip, idiot!" he murmured. The city lights passed by in a blur but his focus remained on the road,on getting home,on not thinking about silky things that didn't matter at all. He was being stupid. It was just a kiss. A soft kiss,not even with tongue. Not every kiss had to light fireworks! It wasn't a children's fairytale.
And that other face? Just a glitch of his brain. An irritation. Nothing more. By the time he reached his apartment and locked the door behind him,he had his story straight.
It didn't mean anything.
He was fine.
Perfectly fine.
He ignored the heavy knot in his chest and headed straight to the shower, determined to scrub the feeling off like dirt.