Chapter 7 - A Resurfacing of Doubt

33 2 0
                                    

The study was full of colour and character, with books lining every wall according to some meticulous schema. An expansive circular table occupied the centre, littered with paper trails of late nights spent working diligently.

As more people came in and sat down at the table, they looked at the door when it opened again. Kim Namjoon apologised briefly for his delay before calling the meeting to order.

Everyone shared what they had learned and discussed their successes and challenges. They were comfortable with each other and spoke openly. However, when Jungkook's discoveries didn't match what they expected, Namjoon looked worried.

"What happened here, Jk?" he asked gently.

Bowing his head, Jungkook replied in a small voice. "I'm sorry. I will try harder and it won't happen again, I promise." The boy sighed, bowing under perceived failure despite his obvious gifts. 

Seokjin met the younger eyes with an expression that said 'We all slip sometimes.'

Namjoon nodded. "Mistakes are lessons. Any thoughts on solutions?"

Suggestions were offered, and understanding seeped between the lines of thoughtful debate long into the night. As the grandfather clock chimed midnight, fatigue finally pulled the conversation to a close.

***

With the closing of the heavy oaken door, silence fell once more over the study. Jungkook lingered behind as the others took their leave, weary from the discussion's events.

Seokjin hung back, offering a few final words of reassurance. "Don't lose faith in yourself, Kook-ah. We all struggle sometimes - what matters is how we grow. You've got so much talent - I know you'll turn this around."

Jungkook nodded thanks, eyes downcast. Seokjin gave his shoulder a gentle, grounding squeeze before slipping out as well.

Alone at last, he exhaled a long breath, forehead finding rest upon cool wood. Frustration welled within unguarded, fingers carding raven hair with a faint tremor. He knew expectations ran high given his capabilities, but failure was bitter to swallow nonetheless.

His wounds were not of the flesh, yet tired all the same. Outside, lamplight filtered pale through looming trees as if in sympathy. But the shadows could not claim him, not while resolve yet stirred in his heart like a dormant flame, whispered encouragement keeping it aglow.

***

The morning was calm and peaceful at the manor. The head maid saw Hoseok walking towards Y/N's room with his usual bright smile.

They talked and laughed as they made plans to go outside the estate. When Hoseok left Y/N's room, he was excited about their adventure.

***

I was excited yet nervous as I waited for Hoseok in my chambers. After his morning visit, glimpses of adventures to come danced in my mind.

Getting ready, I chose comfy yet cute clothes to match the fun day ahead. The kind maids helped fix my hair just so, and I smiled at my reflection - it seemed brighter already!

A knock soon came. "Come in!" I called, turning to greet my friend. But the words caught in my throat at his awestruck gaze, heat rushing to my cheeks.

We soon departed, conversations full of anticipation. Hoseok spoke of making the most of our free afternoon through shared experiences.

As we settled into plush leather seats, Hoseok kicked back with easy charm. "You look great, by the way. Blue is definitely your colour."

I rolled my eyes playfully. "Flatterer. I'm just excited to see you smile and have fun - you always light up a room, Hobi."

His answering grin was bright as promised, crinkling his eyes into happy crescents. "Well then, brace yourself!"

The ride passed in an instant. As the park came into view and joyous sounds filled the breeze, I felt thankful beyond words for moments like this.

*

*

*

~To be continued ~

7 Husband, Who is The Real One | BTSWhere stories live. Discover now