Invisible Affection | Taejin

10. You are my hope

A/N: I had hoped to share this chapter earlier, but my 78-year-old neighbor called me to give me updates I missed after not seeing her for the last couple of weeks. I tell myself that if I live to be 78, I aspire to be as active and full of energy as this woman is because she jumps around like a teenager and never with a cry of ache or pain, even after having eight kids!  She plays tennis, goes fishing, is active in the gym, swims, hikes, plays basketball, and so much more that I can't keep up. She also drives like she is auditioning for a role in Fast and Furious 😂

******

Taehyung, after spending time focusing on and working on his assignments, decided to take a break. He had made his way back to his room after delivering the pizza to Jimin. Since he no longer felt at ease in the company of Jin and Jin's friends, given the response he received after trying to offer pizza,

He tried not to take it personally, convinced Jin's response was unintentional. After all, there were many times when Jin had been perfectly fine with him getting and bringing food. In Taehyung's mind, it seemed that something happened to put Jin in a sour mood at that particular moment. Confident in his beliefs, he leisurely extended his arms and rose from the floor of his room.

He had opted to sit near the broad wall window, taking in the view of the city below. He wasn't sure if he could ever get used to the view. But with no idea of when this view might disappear, he was determined to enjoy it while it lasted fully.

Despite his thirst and the intention to head to the kitchen for a drink of water, he found himself leaning against the window wall, captivated by the view outside. The sight of the vibrant city below moved him to tears, evoking memories of his mother. He pondered whether she had ever witnessed a view like the one he was currently beholding. He found himself wondering about her past, curious about the experiences she had as a young woman. He wished that amidst her responsibilities as a wife and mother, she had the chance to experience different things that made her whole.

He had always seen her as someone who radiated joy and optimism, even during the most challenging moments when life seemed to be throwing everything at her. He felt disappointed that he couldn't fulfill his promise of providing the life he had always envisioned for her and his father. Thankfully, she recognized his intentions and the goals he had in mind. It's the very reason why he would not give up on school or any of his dreams, as he had to push forward, even in the hardest and most challenging moments, motivated by the desire to make his parents proud.

Lost in a timeless haze, Taehyung remained slumped against the window wall; his vision clouded with tears as he mourned the heartbreaking absence of his mother. He felt an indescribable ache in his heart, aching to scream, but he held it back, aware that the silence surrounding his life would only bury it deeper.

Witnessing Jin and his friends ' interactions made him realize the value of companionship. In times of sorrow, having someone around who cares can make a difference, and a few moments of laughter can work wonders for the soul. This became one of the factors that influenced his decision to accept Jin's offer and move in with him. He didn't want to face his misery alone, even though he knew that Jin might not be good for him. Still, Jin provided him with hope. Something he needed to move forward.

After composing himself and collecting his thoughts, Taehyung mustered the strength to leave his room and go to the kitchen.

When he walked into the kitchen, he was taken aback and saw Jin aggressively chopping a carrot on the cutting board. Taehyung's face displayed a clear expression of concern, impossible for him to hide, as he was genuinely worried.