The Afflictions Of Lovers | 18+ Kookv

3

THE BEGINNING STEPS OF A NEW PATH SEEM TO ALREADY BE SHAKY AT THE START

Taehyung couldn't tear his gaze away from Jungkook throughout the lecture. His mind wandered from the professor's words, barely registering the content of the class. Instead, his attention was fixated on the man seated beside him, stealing glances whenever he thought Jungkook wouldn't notice. Sometimes, he stared just a second too long, and Jungkook's discomfort was palpable, evident in the subtle shift of his posture or the fleeting furrow of his brow.

However, as the minutes ticked by, Taehyung noticed something change in Jungkook's demeanor. His initial discomfort seemed to wane, replaced by a resigned acceptance of Taehyung's persistent interest. It was as if Jungkook had resigned himself to the fact that Taehyung would continue to watch him, whether he liked it or not.

After the lecture concluded, Taehyung wasted no time in pursuing Jungkook. He caught up with him just outside the classroom, falling into step beside him.

"Hey, Jungkook," Taehyung greeted casually, his tone belying the eagerness that bubbled beneath the surface. "I thought we could grab a coffee or something. Get to know each other better, you know?"

Jungkook's response was guarded, his gaze flickering to Taehyung before settling on the path ahead. "I don't know if that's such a good idea," he replied, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Taehyung shrugged, masking his disappointment with a nonchalant smile. "Suit yourself. But hey, if you ever change your mind, you know where to find me," He said, trying to keep his friendliness unhindered. Jungkook slowly nodded in acknowledgement though it was evident that Jungkook probably wouldn't change his mind. The former watched the latter walk away with no verbal response and disappear out of the building.

As Taehyung made his way through the campus garden, the lush greenery providing a soothing backdrop to his troubled thoughts, he spotted Jimin and Areum sitting at a secluded pavilion tucked away amidst the foliage. The soft murmur of the breeze rustling through the leaves added to the tranquil atmosphere, offering a momentary respite from the chaos of his emotions.

"Hey, guys," Taehyung greeted them as he approached, his voice tinged with a hint of weariness.

Jimin looked up, his expression immediately registering concern. "Hey, Tae. You look like you've got the weight of the world on your shoulders. Everything okay?"

Taehyung sighed, sinking into the seat beside them. "Not really. I tried to talk to someone after class, but it was like hitting a brick wall every time. No matter how hard I try, they just keep pushing me away."

Areum raised an eyebrow, a teasing smirk playing on her lips. "Let me guess, Taehyung. Another hopeless romantic pursuit?"

Taehyung shot her a playful glare, though there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. He gave a fake laugh in return.

"Hey, I'll have you know I'm a man of many talents. Romance just happens to be one of them."

Areum chuckled, her sarcasm laced with genuine concern. "Well, I hate to break it to you, but maybe you're just coming on a little too strong. Not everyone appreciates your irresistible charm right off the bat."

Taehyung rolled his eyes, though there was a fondness in his gaze as he looked at his friend. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Areum. Remind me never to come to you for relationship advice."

Jimin raised a brow and continued the teasing, "You're telling me that the time when the Kim Taehyung's charm and good looks failed to make someone swoon has come?" He said with his hands on his face in fake shock. The one being bullied by his friends scoffed at the both of them and crossed his arms with a pout on his face, "Nevermind, you guys are no help."