Crimson Shadows

Chapter 5

-Seokjin's Pov-

Weeks have passed and Namjoon trusted me more and I was much happier. I couldn't wait to make him mine soon. The time we spent together only strengthened my resolve to protect him and bring him closer. Our bond had grown, and with each passing day, Namjoon trusted me more. The innocence in his eyes and the warmth in his smile were enough to make me forget the darkness I dealt with daily.

Today, I had planned something special. I couldn't wait to see the look on Namjoon's face when he saw what I had in store for him. I arrived at his apartment early, carrying a bouquet of his favorite flowers and a small gift box.

When Namjoon opened the door, his face lit up. "Seokie...is this a surprise?"

I handed him the flowers and the gift. "Good morning, Namjoon. I thought we could spend the day together. I have something special planned."

His eyes sparkled with excitement. "You always know how to make my day, Seokjin. Thank you."

As we walked to the car, Namjoon couldn't stop talking about his latest project. His enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself hanging on to every word. We drove to a secluded park I had discovered, a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic away from prying eyes.

I spread out a blanket under a large oak tree, and we unpacked the picnic basket filled with Namjoon's favorite foods. "This is amazing Seokie..." he said, taking a bite of a sandwich. "How do you always know exactly what I like?"

"I pay attention..." I replied with a smile. "I want to make you happy."

"You do." he said softly, his eyes meeting mine. "You really do..."

After our meal, we lay back on the blanket, looking up at the sky. The afternoon sun was warm, and a gentle breeze rustled the leaves above us. It was a perfect moment, one that I wished could last forever.

"Seokie?" Namjoon said after a while, "I've been thinking. You've become such an important part of my life. I don't know what I would do without you..."

I smiled softly as it was now normal for him to call me that cute nickname but it always sound so special to me...His words touched me deeply, and I reached over to squeeze his hand. "You mean a lot to me too, Namjoon. More than you know."

We spent the rest of the afternoon talking, laughing, and simply enjoying each other's company. As the sun began to set, I suggested we take a walk by the lake nearby. The water reflected the colors of the sky, creating a breathtaking scene.

As we walked along the shore, I couldn't help but think about how much my life had changed since Namjoon stumbled into that alley. He had brought light into my world, and I was determined to protect that light at all costs.

"Seokie?" Namjoon said suddenly, stopping and turning to face me. "Why do you always go out of your way for me? You barely know me."

I looked into his eyes, searching for the right words. "Because you deserve it, Namjoon. You deserve to be happy and safe. And... because I care about you. More than I've ever cared about anyone."

He seemed taken aback by my honesty, but a smile slowly spread across his face. "I care about you too, Seokjin. You've become my closest friend."

Friend. The word stung, but I pushed the feeling aside. For now, it was enough. I had time to make him see how much more he meant to me.

As the evening drew to a close, we returned to his apartment. I walked him to his door, reluctant to say goodbye. "Thank you for today, Seokie It was perfect..."