The Escort S2

Part 82: Arms full of gucci merch

Jungkook's POV

J.J, Ivory, and Baek all arrive for self-defense class. They're early and we hang out in the kitchen while Tae waits in the living area for Chany. I wish Tae showed as much excitement for self-defense as he does for matchmaking. I assume it's a nice distraction from everything that's going on. Tomorrow is the finale for The Grift and it will be a tough day.

"Hi guys. Welcome to self-defense class 2.0." We all laugh, remembering how class 1.0 did not go well.

"It's good to see you again." Baek says with a calm smile. On goodness, he and Ivory are wearing matching workout suits but at least they aren't pink. Looks like they're dressed for some serious down and dirty self-defense. Definitely the Baek effect.

"You too, Baek," I say. "I'm happy you could join us this evening. How's it going, guys?"

"Just great!" Baek shares with enthusiasm, "JJ is helping get Ivory moved into my home."

"That's awesome." JJ beams and looks like he is floating on a cloud. I hear the door chime and know it must be Chany.

Taehyung's POV

"Hey Chany, how are you!?" I say, giving him my upbeat voice knowing he's probably nervous.

"I'm not good. Maybe this was a bad idea. What was l thinking? I'm no good. I should go." This is far worse than nervousness. He's waging a self-attack. I've got to get him calm or the match will be dead on arrival. Baek's a great guy but in no way will it be easy for Chany. He's right. Baek is smart, classy, and wealthy. Also, with years of experience with a cheating husband, Baek can spot bullshit right away and the last thing he wants is another Jackson.

"Chany, stop it! Stop talking that negative shit to yourself. Do you like him or not?!" I sputter.

"Yes, but –"

"This is just an introduction. Nothing more. The rest will be decided later. You only need to be yourself and have fun. Can you do that?" Chany lets out a breath of relief.

"Yes. That I can do."

Kookie's POV

Our small group heads to Tae's exercise room on the lower level.

"Okay, now that my little brother has arrived, let's get going."

Ivory's hand goes up and I roll my eyes. I then remember that Tae asked me to be patient and respond in a calm tone.

"Yes, Ivory?"

"Uh, Kookie, are there snacks?" I grind my teeth as I feel my body is losing patience.

"Ivory, I heard you moved into a beautiful new home with your brother."

"Yes, I did, Kookie," Ivory smiles.

"Your snacks are there. Can we continue?"

"Kookie, that was not nice. He was just asking a simple question," JJ says in defense of his crush.

"Nice?! How nice was it when that thug at the donut shop chased you both down an alley?"

Everyone gasps recalling Ivory's and JJ's incident.

"What would you have done if JJ wasn't there? You think you would have gotten away with a box of those gourmet donuts that day?! I think not!" Okay that was a bit harsh, but my point was made. I look over to Tae who is not pleased. I have to do better.

Ivory's eyes go big.

"Uh, I don't know what I've would have done," Ivory says sadly. I breathe and speak in a more compassionate voice.