delicate | K.TH

22

AMIN

I'd hoped that it might fade away. That everything would go back to normal after an hour or so— maybe even after a day or two.

But it doesn't.

And now I'm feeling the height of it when Taehyung pushes his way into the guest room, his pillow tucked underneath his arm. Then he wordlessly gets into bed next to where I am.

"Noona, are you awake?"

"...yes."

His voice echoes softly in my ear, making me shiver the slightest bit. "Can I sleep with you tonight?"

"I—"

"Say yes." He pouts, his eyes flickering in the dim moonlight. "Do you know you've been acting strange all day, Noona? Not even touching me."

His voice is low. "Not even a single kiss. You usually kiss me too much."

"Okay."

My voice is almost timid as I press my lips softly against his. He makes a small noise in his throat, and I struggle to hide the racing of my heart when he shifts his hand up the arch of my back.

Why.

Why am I feeling this way?

"Thank you." He murmurs against my jaw, covering me easily with his body. And I breathe, forcing my eyes close as his warmth bleeds into my skin.

"Goodnight, Noona."

My breath catches quietly.

"Goodnight, Tae."

But for the next two hours I lie awake in his chest, unable to get my heart to calm down enough for sleep.

I...can't.

It's nearly one in the morning when I scramble out of his hold, moving carefully so I don't wake him. My cheeks are hot, and I curse silently under my breath as I leave the room.

I would not be able to fall asleep, if I stayed next to him.

The living room is dark and quiet. The air is cold against my skin, and I sit down at the edge of the couch— burying my face in my hands.

What's going on?

Heartbeat still fast, I lie down on the couch. It's easier to breathe now, and I sigh heavily as I put my arm over my eyes.

I'd just cool down a bit here, and then go back. Maybe then I'd be able to sleep— earlier that had seemed impossible.

Just a minute.

My eyes flicker close.

______________________________

It's morning.

I jerk up to sitting position when I realize that I'm back in the guest room. The blankets are tucked over my body, and Taehyung is no longer next to me.