Secrets || VKOOK (ON HOLD)

Chapter 12

Jungkook was woken up by shuffling noises from the kitchen. He groaned and rolled over, squinting at the clock. It was 6 AM. The smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the room. He could tell Taehyung was already up, probably going through his morning routine. Jungkook stumbled out of bed, still half-asleep, and followed the scent to the kitchen.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Taehyung sang, turning from the stove with a plate of pancakes in hand. He looked as cheerful as ever, not a hint of the weariness that Jungkook felt. "I made your favorite breakfast!"

Jungkook couldn't help but smile, his heart warming at the sight of his boyfriend's vibrant eyes. "You're too good to me," he said, taking the plate and planting a kiss on Taehyung's forehead. The sweetness of maple syrup filled the air, mixing with the faint smell of Taehyung's citrus shampoo. They sat at the small dining table, the morning light painting a soft glow on their faces.

As they ate, Jungkook noticed Taehyung's hand tremble slightly as he took a sip of coffee. He reached out and placed his hand over Taehyung's, giving it a gentle squeeze. "You okay?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Taehyung laughed it off, his cheeks flushing a little. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a little tired, I guess." He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. Jungkook nodded, his eyes never leaving Taehyung's face. He had noticed the subtle changes in his boyfriend's health over the past few months, but Taehyung always brushed it off with a smile and a joke.

"We're going on a road trip today." Taehyung said changing the subject, his eyes sparkling with excitement. Jungkook raised an eyebrow, his spoonful of pancake frozen mid-air. "A road trip?"

Taehyung nodded, "Yeah, to Jeju Island. It's been so long." Taehyung said. Jungkook doesn't know about Taehyung's wishlist or heart condition and he felt bad for not telling him but he will tell him when he's ready. For now, he cherished every moment they had together.

Jungkook put down his spoon and took a deep breath, trying to hide his surprise. "But you hate driving long distances. It makes you feel nauseous," he said, his voice a little too sharp.

Taehyung's smile didn't waver. "I know, but I promise I'll be okay. It's just one day, and it's something I've always wanted to do. Especially with you," he said with s bit of sadness In his tone. Jungkook felt his chest tighten. "Please, Jungkook?"

Jungkook searched Taehyung's eyes, looking for any hint of what was really going on. All he saw was hope and excitement. "Alright," he conceded. "Let's do it."

They spent the morning packing a small bag of essentials and double-checking the car. Taehyung was meticulous, making sure they had snacks, water, and even a portable Bluetooth speaker for music. Jungkook couldn't ignore the occasional wince or deep breath Taehyung took as they worked, but he didn't say anything, not wanting to dampen the mood.

After they finished packing the took a long hot shower together, their skin sticking slightly as they embraced under the warm spray. Jungkook took extra care to wash Taehyung's hair, gently massaging his scalp like he knew he liked. Taehyung leaned into the touch, closing his eyes and letting out a content sigh. The tension in his body seemed to melt away, at least for a moment.

Once they were dressed and ready to go, Taehyung pulled out a small notebook from his pocket. "I've made a list of places I want to visit," he said, flipping through the pages filled with his neat handwriting. Jungkook's eyes widened as he saw the number of spots marked down. "There's a café I've always wanted to try, a lighthouse that's supposed to have the best view, and a hidden beach that's supposed to be amazing at sunset."

Jungkook nodded, trying to keep his concern hidden. "Whatever you want, Tae." He took the keys and opened the door, the cool spring air rushing in.

They reached their car, a sleek black convertible that Jungkook had bought on a whim. Taehyung's eyes lit up when he saw the top was down, the wind gently rustling his hair as Jungkook started the engine. Jungkook took one last look at their apartment, feeling a mix of excitement and dread as they pulled away from the curb.