Secrets || VKOOK (ON HOLD)

Chapter 8

As time passed, Jisoo decided that she should leave and Taehyung stayed at Jungkook's tattoo building watching Jungkook do his work, which was a mix of awe and dread as he knew he could never get a tattoo with his condition. Jungkook looked up from his client with a smile, "Why don't you sit in the chair today, Tae?" he suggested. "You've been looking a bit stressed lately, maybe a new ink will brighten your mood."

Taehyung widen his eyes in surprise, "you mean, a tattoo? On my body?"

Jungkook nodded, "Yeah, I know it's not for everyone, but I've noticed you admiring them every time you come here. Maybe it's time to get one of your own," he said with a hopeful smile.

Taehyung's heart skipped a beat. He had always loved the artistry of tattoos, the way they adorned the body with stories and memories. But with his condition, he had never allowed himself to consider getting one. "I don't know, Jungkook. It's a big decision," he replied, his voice trailing off.

"It's okay if you don't want to as it will stay there for the rest of your life," Jungkook said, reading the hesitation in Taehyung's eyes. "But if you do, I'll make sure it's something you'll love."

Taehyung felt his heart swell with love for Jungkook. He knew he had to tell him the truth, but the words remained lodged in his throat. He took a deep breath and nodded. "Alright, let's do it," he said, trying to sound more enthusiastic than he felt.

Jungkook's smile grew as he led Taehyung to the chair. "What do you want?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Taehyung thought for a moment, his eyes scanning the walls covered in vibrant artwork. "I want your name on my heart," he said, his voice firm. Jungkook's eyes widened, and he stopped mid-step.

"Tae, are you sure?" Jungkook's voice was a mix of shock and excitement.

Taehyung nodded, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, I've been thinking about it. It's just... I want something that reminds me of you, no matter what happens."

Jungkook's eyes searched Taehyung's, his gaze intense and searching. He could see the unspoken fear behind Taehyung's bravado, the vulnerability that he usually kept so well hidden. He swallowed hard, his own heart racing. "Okay," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "But let's make it something that celebrates you, not just me."

Taehyung nodded, a tear slipping down his cheek. Jungkook sat down in the chair across from him, setting down his coffee. "How about this?" He picked up a sketch pad and began to draw. "A phoenix, symbolizing rebirth and strength, with 'JK' and 'TH' intertwined in the flames."

Taehyung's eyes lit up as Jungkook presented the sketch. It was perfect, a symbol of their love and Taehyung's inner strength. He nodded, unable to find the words to express his gratitude. Jungkook took his hand and squeezed it gently. "Ready?"

Taehyung took a deep breath and nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew this was more than just a tattoo; it was a declaration of his love and a symbol of his hope. He laid down on the chair, his heart racing as Jungkook prepared the needles and ink. The buzz of the machine was a comforting sound, a reminder that life was still moving forward.

Jungkook worked with a steady hand, the lines of the phoenix coming to life on Taehyung's skin. Taehyung closed his eyes, focusing on the feeling of the needle rather than the pain. Each prick was a reminder that he was alive, that he had the chance to feel something so personal and beautiful. He could feel Jungkook's warmth beside him, his breath against his skin as he worked.

"How's it feel?" Jungkook asked, pausing for a moment to wipe away a bead of sweat that had formed on Taehyung's forehead.

Taehyung took a deep breath and opened his eyes. "It stings," he admitted, "but it's worth it."