Never Not [Taekook]

NN 19

Taehyung.

Bogum led me to a lavish Italian restaurant that screamed luxury - from the dazzling chandeliers declaring its opulence to the refined tablecloths hinting at its exclusive clientele.

Approaching the counter, we were welcomed by a poised receptionist. I mirrored her smile, as did Bogum. "Good evening, gentlemen. How may I assist you?" she confidently inquired, her red lips maintaining a persistent smile.

"I'll take the reservation for Park Bogum," Bogum declared with a smile that had eluded my sight for the past five years. I hadn't witnessed him radiate such warmth since our heart-wrenching break-up. Of course, who could smile so brightly after such a tumultuous separation?

Internally shaking my head, I let my gaze wander around the restaurant. The ambiance exuded coziness, with patrons in suits and elegant dresses immersed in delightful meals and lively conversations. It was the perfect setting for dates and celebrations.

As the atmosphere set the stage for a romantic evening, I couldn't help but smile, a certain ravenette flashing through my mind. I wished Jungkook were with me, wished he were the one I was sharing this delightful evening with, wished he had asked me on this enchanting "date."

Caught in the familiar struggle, I found myself secretly hurting for harboring feelings for a certain ravenette, reflecting on the choices that led me to this moment.

"Tae? Let's go?" Bogum's voice snapped me back to reality. I faced him, offering a smile as I nodded. Bogum gently guided me by the forearm as we gracefully made our way to a reserved table.

Pulling out a chair for me, I took a seat with gratitude. I smiled at him as he settled in front of me, and he reciprocated, signaling a waiter. The waiter approached with a friendly smile, presenting the menu. Glancing over the options, I made my selection and conveyed it with a touch of anticipation.

Everything flowed smoothly as we ate, yet the silence between us allowed my thoughts to wander elsewhere – from the man across the table to the one I encountered at my favorite milk tea shop this afternoon. I contemplated how to broach the subject with Jungkook, confessing that I spent time with Bogum. The anticipation of Jungkook's reaction sent shivers down my spine; I knew how vehemently he despised Bogum.

Flashbacks invaded my mind, recalling the morning after our breakup when Bogum relentlessly pestered me, nearly dragging me back to our former apartment. A faint bruise adorned my arm, and Jungkook, with an uncanny ability to detect even the smallest mark, noticed it. Enraged, he unleashed a torrent of fury upon Bogum, nearly rendering him unconscious. Terrified, I watched my ex-lover, whom I once cherished, immersed in his own blood. Although I became upset with Jungkook for resorting to violence, he justified his actions by revealing the despicable deeds committed by Bogum – cheating on me and engaging in a tumultuous relationship with my step-sister.

Jungkook's laughter echoed, a bitter reminder of my misplaced worry and resentment toward the man who genuinely cared for me, even in our brief acquaintance. In that tumultuous moment, Jungkook mocked me, attempting to jolt me back to reality. I wanted to laugh at myself for being concerned about Bogum and resentful toward the man who stood by me.

After the chaos settled, I informed Jungkook about my decision to find a new apartment. Unexpectedly, he didn't permit it; instead, he offered a heartfelt apology and insisted I stay. Over time, our bond deepened, evolving from the turbulence of a broken relationship into an enduring friendship.

I found myself immersed in a bittersweet reverie, reliving the intricacies of our past that once fueled my affection for him. Yet, I grappled with the undeniable truth that this emotional cascade needed to cease, a challenge I wrestled with.