This Love Is...|| TAEKOOK ||

|17| no more hiding

The school's prom was just around the corner, an event that always brought a mix of excitement and tension among students and staff alike. For Taehyung, it felt like a ticking time bomb after their last argument.

In the staff lounge, the air was thick with unspoken words. Taehyung spotted Jungkook sorting through a pile of papers, and after a moment's hesitation, he approached.

"Hey, Jungkook. Got a minute?"

"Sure, what's up?" Jungkook replied, not looking up from his work.

"So, the prom is this week. I was wondering if you have a date planned."

Jungkook paused, his pen hovering over the papers. He finally looked up at Taehyung, his expression unreadable.

"Yeah, actually. I'm going with Sarah from the English department."

Taehyung's heart sank. He felt as if the ground had been pulled out from under him. He forced a smile, trying to mask his hurt.

"Oh, that's great. Sarah's nice."

"Yeah, she's fun to be around. What about you? Got any plans for the prom?"

Taehyung swallowed hard, his mind racing for a plausible response. He couldn't let Jungkook see how much this affected him.

"Me? No, I'll probably just fly solo and enjoy the evening. You know, mingle with the students, make sure everything runs smoothly."

Jungkook nodded, a hint of relief in his eyes. "That's probably for the best. Less drama that way."

Taehyung laughed, though it sounded hollow to his ears. "Yeah, drama is the last thing we need right now."

As Taehyung walked away, his mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. He needed to keep it together, at least until the prom was over. But deep down, the ache in his chest was a constant reminder of what he'd lost—or perhaps never truly had.

The days leading up to the prom were a blur of activity. Decorations were hung, the gymnasium was transformed into a sparkling wonderland, and students buzzed with excitement. Taehyung threw himself into the preparations, hoping the busyness would distract him from the gnawing pain in his heart.

On the night of the prom, Taehyung stood at the entrance of the gym, greeting students as they arrived. He watched as Jungkook entered with Sarah, their laughter ringing in his ears. He clenched his jaw, forcing a smile as they passed by.

"Mr. Kim, are you here alone?"

Taehyung turned to look one of his students. "Yep, just me. Someone has to keep an eye on you lot," he replied with a wink.

"Well, you look sharp, Mr. Kim. Maybe you'll find someone special tonight!" Another student along the side, entered the conversation.

Taehyung laughed, shaking his head. "Thanks, but I think I'll just enjoy the evening as it is."

Inside the gym, the music was loud, and the dance floor was packed. Taehyung wandered around, making small talk with students and staff, his eyes constantly drifting to Jungkook and Sarah.

They seemed to be having a great time

The thought only made the ache in his heart worse.

Each shared laugh and subtle touch stuck like a dagger to Taehyung's heart. He couldn't bear to watch any longer.

Slipping out of the gym, Taehyung found himself wandering the now dark and empty corridors of the campus. The silence was a stark contrast to the noise and excitement of the prom. As he walked, he tried to process his swirling emotions, but all he could think about was Jungkook with Sarah.