Unfriended | Taekook

4 - Reconnecting

The next couple of days were packed for both Jungkook and Taehyung. Jungkook had school in the morning and then headed straight to the school's gym for his jiu-jitsu practice. His coach announced that the team was entered into an interschool competition, which got everyone hyped. They loved a good rivalry and were eager to prove themselves the best team around once again.

Jungkook's team included Yugyeom, Jaehyun and Mingyu. They all attended the same classes at the same school and were the same age, so they got along well, kinda. With some teammates Jungkook kept their relationship strictly professional for the sake of team dynamics, he wouldn't have been friends with Jaehyun if it weren't for the team.

All the guys were popular at school, not just for their marcial arts skills but also for their looks. Jaehyun was the most popular among them, constantly surrounded by girls and changing girlfriends every week. His best friend, Mingyu, was more laid-back but also had a reputation as a ladies' man.

Jungkook felt a closer bond with Yugyeom. They were popular too but quieter and more focused on their studies and sports. Yugyeom had one regular girlfriend for almost two years now, and Jungkook had been casually seeing Yunseo for the past two months. Neither was looking for anything serious, as they were both focused on getting into top universities and pursuing their dreams.

During those busy days, Jungkook barely saw Taehyung. He once spotted him running on the street one morning and they exchanged a quick wave.

At night, after training and dinner, Jungkook would look out his window, hoping to catch a glimpse of Taehyung. But Taehyung worked late and probably came home exhausted. He hadn't texted Jungkook, so Jungkook didn't have his number.

After another day of not seeing Taehyung, Jungkook decided to visit the convenience store where Taehyung worked. He needed to restock his snacks anyway.

Around five in the afternoon, Jungkook walked into the store. The doorbell caught Taehyung's attention, and he smiled when he saw his friend. Jungkook noticed that the checkout counter was free and approached, putting off his shopping for later. "Hey, Tae! You've been busy lately... I haven't seen you much!"

Taehyung continued smiling, "Yeah, I've been working double shifts, covering for a sick coworker. But tomorrow I have my first day off in I don't know how many days!" He raised his hands to the sky, thanking the heavens for the much-needed rest.

Jungkook chuckled, "Oh, wow. Enjoy sleeping in and eating junk food all day. Nothing better!"

"Absolutely not. Staying home makes me sick! I'll go out, even if it's just to sleep in a park bench."

"Well, tomorrow my dad is making Korean barbecue for us. You're invited to spend the day at our place if you want. It'll just be the two of us. And he'd love to see you again."

"Is that invitation serious? If it is, count me in. I never turn down food. I haven't seen him in ages. How's he doing?"

Jungkook smiled, appreciating the question. "Of course it's serious... he's still trucking, you know? Working hard as ever."

Taehyung nodded, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "I always liked your dad, he's such a great man. I remember he used to make the best barbecue."

"Yeah, he still does. Promises one every time he gets back from a long trip. But he's been working a lot lately. I just hope he's taking care of himself."

"Sounds like he's got a good son to look after him," Taehyung said, patting Jungkook on the shoulder. The doorbell announced another guest, and Taehyung greeted them with a beautiful smile. Jungkook observed. "If Taehee wants to join, she's invited too."