Fading Away | Taekook

47 - Settling

On the day Taehyung returned to Eumseong, Jungkook departed for Jeju Island.

Jungkook could barely contain his excitement as he prepared his photography equipment for the annual photography event on Jeju Island. This was no ordinary event; it was a gathering of the most talented photographers in Asia, and he was eager to absorb every bit of knowledge he could.

The first day began with an inspiring lecture on the "Art of Landscape Photography," delivered by a renowned nature photographer. Jungkook took fervent notes, capturing every word as he dreamed of the landscapes he would soon be exploring.

In the afternoon, he participated in a small quick photography competition. The challenge was to capture the essence of Jeju in a single image.

Jungkook chose the stunning backdrop of Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, where the water fell with a grace only nature could choreograph. He patiently waited for the perfect moment when a ray of sunlight pierced through the mist, creating an ephemeral rainbow that he captured with a timely click. He placed third, but was happy to have lost to two great photography veterans.

While strolling through the alleys of Jeju, he imagined Taehyung by his side, exclaiming "wows and whoa's" at every corner, every landscape. Surely, he would return to the island with his boyfriend one day.

As the sun began to set on Jeju Island, Jungkook spotted Mr. Park, the editor who had offered him a job. Mr. Park was accompanied by a group of individuals, whose confident postures and sophisticated cameras slung around their necks left no doubt that they were the senior photographers of the magazine.

One by one, Jungkook was introduced to his potential future colleagues. They welcomed Jungkook warmly, sharing stories and laughter.

Jungkook felt welcomed and excited. The exchange of experiences with the group created a warm and friendly atmosphere, making him feel part of a community united by the same passion for photography.

The opportunity to work alongside such talented and respected professionals brought him a sense of honor and anticipation for the learning and growth experiences that lay ahead. Surely, it was a memorable moment that made Jungkook decide in his heart that he would certainly accept the offer and start a new chapter in his career.

As night fell, he returned to the hotel, finally picking up his phone. With so much going on and people to meet, the device had stayed forgotten in his backpack. In the notifications, he saw messages from Taehyung and clicked quickly.

Tae:
Seven days tomorrow! I returned to Eumseong today, if you think you're ready we can talk... do you want to come to the farm? Miss u.

The message was sent in the early afternoon, perhaps now is too late to call Taehyung, but he risked it anyway. He clicked the video call button and waited.

On the second ring, Taehyung answered and both instantly smiled at seeing each other. Taehyung tossed his bangs to cover his sewn eyebrow, not wanting to worry Jungkook unnecessarily, "Hey... I thought you had found a new love and forgotten me. Wait, where are you?" Taehyung doesn't recognize the background behind his boyfriend, not his apartment sure.

"Jeju Island, I just got here today for a photography event. And yes, you're right, I found a beautiful blonde girl and we got married on the beach today." Taehyung pouted but soon offered his beautiful boxy smile, oh, how Jungkook missed that smile, it seems like ages since the last time.

He then recounted the job offer he received, Taehyung supported him to accept it without thinking twice, he knows how toxic the BE environment is and how it stresses Jungkook. The photographer also told about his busy day and how everything went well when he was introduced to the magazine colleagues, Taehyung listened excitedly, asking for more details and asking to see the photo that won third place in the competition, saying he was proud of his boyfriend.