Starlight and Petals (taekook)

7: Splinter

Ignore the mistakes  please:

Authors pov:

The restaurant buzzed with a slow melody and the gentle sounds of laughter. The aroma of food hung pleasantly in the air, and playful chatter filled the private room where Jungkook, Eunwo, Jaehyun, Mingyu, Jimin, Hoseok, Yoongi, Seokjin, and Namjoon were gathered. As they raised their glasses, the tangy liquid swirled within, prompting a toast.

"so Eunwoo," Seokjin began, a wide grin on his face, 

"how was your time in the state? I never thought I'd see the day, but you look fantastic! We're all so proud of you."

Eunwo's smile stretched even wider, his eyes crinkling slightly at the corners.

"Thanks, hyung! Honestly, living in the state was pretty exciting. Sure, things got busy, but it was one of the best times I've had."

Seokjin nodded in agreement, but a scoff escaped Jungkook's lips. 

"Such a liar, you are," he remarked, his gaze narrowing. "I heard you were out every night with some different girl. I don't get why you always try to act so innocent in front of Jin hyung."

Seokjin rolled his eyes playfully at Jungkook's jab, while Eunwoo's eyes widened momentarily before a wave of laughter swept across the table.

"You're such a pain, Jerk Jungkook!" Eunwoo exclaimed, a hint of mock frustration in his voice. "Namjoon hyung, please don't get me wrong," he added, turning to Namjoon with a pleading look. "Jin hyung is like a brother to me, alright?"

Namjoon chuckled, understanding the dynamic between them. He simply smiled and nodded, while Jungkook joined in the laughter with the others.

Seokjin, never one to miss an opportunity for a playful dig, chimed in,

"Well, I wouldn't mind a little flirting, you know." He took a sip of his drink, sending a mischievous wink towards Eunwoo.

The table erupted in renewed teasing, the lighthearted atmosphere thickening with playful banter. Seokjin then glanced at Namjoon, who shook his head with a chuckle, unable to contain his amusement at their ongoing dynamic.

The lively atmosphere in the restaurant shifted as Jaehyun interjected. 

"By the way, jerk," he said with a playful jab at Jungkook, "your new album is incredible! You really blew me away."

Jungkook nodded in hesitant appreciation. "Yeah, well," he scoffed, "you didn't even show up to the concert."

Jaehyun rolled his eyes and playfully slapped Jungkook's shoulder.

"Hey, I was in London for my painting exhibition, remember? I told you about it. If you can't recall that, then maybe you're the one losing brain cells."

The lighthearted bickering drew laughter from the others. The night flowed with conversation, delicious food, playful teasing, and even a burst of karaoke-style singing. As their energy waned, they settled comfortably on the couches, indulging in quieter conversation.

The sudden shift in mood was palpable as Eunwo spoke, his voice barely a whisper yet loud enough for everyone to hear. 

"I met Taehyung... last night."

A heavy silence descended upon the room. Jungkook's face hardened.

"I don't want to hear anything. Shut it, Eunwoo," he snapped, his voice laced with anger.

The others exchanged sorrowful glances. Namjoon, knowing Jungkook's respect for him, spoke up in a firm yet gentle voice.

"Listen to him at least, Jungkook."