Beyond The Friend Zone [Taekook]

Growing Up, One Night At A Time (7)

Jungkook emerged from the bathroom, the lingering warmth of the shower clinging to his skin. The pajamas Mrs. Kim had set out for him weren’t brand new, but they were soft and cozy, fitting him perfectly. As he examined the snug fabric, he realized they must have belonged to Taehyung when he was younger. The thought made him feel oddly happy, as if he was wrapped in a little piece of Taehyung’s childhood. He couldn’t help but smile to himself, feeling extra adorable tonight.

Excited to show Mrs. Kim, Jungkook skipped down the hallway and knocked on her door. When she opened it, her face lit up with a warm, motherly smile that made Jungkook feel all the more cherished. She gazed at him with a mix of nostalgia and affection, recalling how sweet and innocent Taehyung had looked in those same pajamas years ago.

“Oh, you look absolutely precious!” Mrs. Kim exclaimed, her heart swelling at the sight.

Jungkook beamed back at her, his round cheeks glowing with delight. “Right? I think so too! Also, thank you for everything, Mrs. Kim. Good night!”

Mrs. Kim chuckled in amusement. “Good night, dear. Sleep well.”

Jungkook scampered down the hall toward Taehyung’s room, his excitement barely contained. As he reached the doorway, he almost collided with Taehyung, who was just stepping out. Jungkook stumbled, but before he could fall, Taehyung’s hand shot out, grabbing the collar of his pajama top to steady him. The gesture was instinctive, quick, and for once, Taehyung didn’t hesitate.

"Where are you going?" Jungkook asked, curiosity shining in his eyes as he followed Taehyung out of the room.

“Brushing my teeth,” Taehyung replied, his tone calm but still tinged with a touch of weariness.

Jungkook nodded, trailing after Taehyung as he made his way to the bathroom. He stood outside the door, occasionally peeking in with a mix of impatience and curiosity. He tried to be subtle, but his restless fidgeting made his presence all too obvious.

Taehyung, catching sight of Jungkook’s reflection in the mirror, finally asked, “What?”

"Nothing!” Jungkook quickly ducked behind the doorframe, but he couldn’t stop himself from sneaking another glance.

Taehyung finished brushing his teeth and rinsed his mouth, his mind turning over Jungkook’s strange behavior. There was something different about him tonight—something more eager, more restless than usual. After drying his face, Taehyung stepped out of the bathroom, only to find Jungkook waiting for him outside, eyes bright with anticipation.

“You can sleep on the bed,” Taehyung offered, his voice reluctant as he walked back to his room. He knew Jungkook had been following him around the house, hoping for this very invitation.

Jungkook’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really? Do you mean it? So that means we’ll sleep on the bed together?”

Taehyung sighed, already feeling worn out by Jungkook’s boundless energy. “I don’t have a choice, do I?” he muttered as he climbed into bed, his voice barely concealing the faintest hint of fondness.

Jungkook’s heart soared. He had been half-expecting to end up on the floor tonight. However, just as he was about to dive into bed, he hesitated. He stood there, twiddling his fingers, his excitement giving way to uncertainty. Something was still missing.

Taehyung noticed Jungkook’s reluctance and glanced over at him. “Not tired?” he asked, puzzled by the sudden shift in mood.

“I am. Well, a little,” Jungkook replied earnestly. “Your mom told me you always go to sleep at 9 pm, so I decided to go to sleep at the same time as you... but...” His voice trailed off as he bit his lip, his cheeks puffing out in a pout. “Don’t you have anything to say to me?”