CRIMSON LIES (TAEKOOK)

6. (THE KISS)

As their evening neared its end, Taehyung felt a mix of emotions-confusion, warmth, and an overwhelming desire for the day to never end. He was enjoying the moment so much that he couldn't bear the thought of it slipping away.

Jungkook, noticing the quiet tension between them, asked, "Why can't you stay a little longer?"

Taehyung hesitated, his gaze dropping. "I have a curfew set by my mom and eomma. I can only stay out until 7:00 p.m."

Jungkook's eyes widened in slight disappointment. "Oh, I see. I'm sorry. Would you mind if I drop you off on my bike?"

Taehyung turned to him, momentarily lost in thought, before Jungkook noticed his gaze drifting into the distance. "Hey, Taehyung? What are you thinking?"

Taehyung shifted his focus back, a slight blush on his cheeks. "Sure... umm, but call me Tae," he said, fidgeting with his fingers nervously. "Taehyung is a nice name, but..." He gestured at the bike, unsure about riding on it.

Jungkook chuckled softly. "Hold me close, then. It's just a bike, Tae."

Taehyung raised an eyebrow. "Jungkook, you watch too many dramas!" he teased, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Jungkook smirked, his tone earnest. "Not at all! These are my true feelings. Now, get on, and give me a firm grip."

With a mixture of nerves and excitement, Taehyung climbed onto the bike, and as Jungkook revved the engine, he gave it a little race before applying the brakes. Taehyung jerked slightly from the sudden movement, causing his chest to make contact with Jungkook's back. Both of them stiffened for a moment, and Taehyung's cheeks flushed deeply in embarrassment. Jungkook quickly apologized, his voice sincere.

Though Taehyung felt shy, he didn't pull away, understanding that the situation wasn't intentional. Jungkook, on the other hand, had many questions swirling in his mind, but he knew it was their first date, and such things should wait. For now, he just enjoyed the moment.

The night air was cool, and as they rode under the moonlight, the quiet streets seemed to whisper with the sound of their shared presence. The delicate scent of spring blossoms hangs in the air, adding to the magical feel of the evening.

"Hey, Tae, why so quiet? Are you upset with me because I'm taking you home early?" Jungkook asked, glancing over his shoulder as they rode.

Taehyung rested his chin on Jungkook's shoulder, a soft smile on his lips. "No, I'm not upset," he said softly. "I had so much fun tonight. It was perfect. Thank you for making it so special."

Jungkook smiled, his heart light. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. I was just worried about your parents, you know? I didn't want you to get in trouble for staying out too late. But I'm hurrying so you won't get scolded."

Taehyung chuckled. "Yeah, they can be a bit overprotective. But they wouldn't even scold me if I killed someone-they'd be too busy disposing of the body."

Jungkook laughed nervously, teasing, "Well, now I'm terrified... Hah, kidding!"

Taehyung grinned. "Why? I won't kill you... but... maybe if you make me mad."

Jungkook laughed, shaking his head. "Don't worry, I won't ever hurt you, TaeTae."

Jungkook nodded, his voice steady and understanding. "We'll figure it out. Your parents just need to see how happy we make each other. They'll come around eventually."

Taehyung gently squeezed Jungkook's waist, his voice soft. "I hope so. I just wish I didn't have to sneak around. I want them to know how amazing you are."