Behind the Veil: A Captive's Tale

27

### Chapter Twenty-Eight: Midnight Ramen and Silent Admiration

The mansion was quiet as the night settled in, a peaceful silence enveloping the sprawling halls and rooms. Most of the boys had already retired for the night, the weight of the day easing into a restful slumber. However, sleep continued to elude Hana as she lay in her bed, staring up at the ceiling. A soft growl from her stomach broke the stillness, reminding her that she had eaten little at dinner.

With a sigh, she slipped out of bed, wrapping a light robe around herself. The cool air of the mansion tickled her skin as she quietly padded down the hallways, making her way toward the kitchen. A warm drink or a small snack might help her relax enough to finally fall asleep.

As she approached the kitchen, she noticed a faint light seeping out from beneath the door. Curious, she pushed the door open quietly and peeked inside. To her surprise, she found Taehyung standing in front of the open refrigerator, his expression contemplative as he scanned the shelves for something to eat.

“Tae?” she called softly, stepping into the kitchen.

Taehyung turned, startled for a moment before his features softened into a smile. “Hana, what are you doing up so late?” he asked, his deep voice laced with warmth.

“I could ask you the same thing,” Hana replied, walking over to the counter. “I couldn’t sleep, so I thought I’d come down for a snack. What about you?”

Taehyung shrugged, closing the refrigerator door. “Same here. I was feeling a bit hungry, but nothing really caught my eye.” He chuckled softly, a slightly embarrassed expression crossing his face. “I guess I’m just not in the mood for anything we have.”

Hana smiled, her gaze drifting to the cupboards where they kept their instant ramen. “How about I make us some ramen? It’s quick, and I think we both could use something warm and comforting.”

Taehyung’s eyes lit up at the suggestion, and he nodded eagerly. “That sounds perfect.”

Hana moved around the kitchen with familiarity, gathering the ingredients she needed. She knew from past conversations that Taehyung preferred his food less spicy, so she made sure to keep the heat mild as she prepared the ramen. As she worked, she could feel Taehyung’s eyes on her, and when she glanced up, she caught him watching her with a soft expression, a hint of blush coloring his cheeks.

“Do you need any help?” Taehyung offered, stepping closer.

Hana shook her head, smiling. “No, I’ve got it. You can just relax.”

Taehyung leaned against the counter, his eyes following her every movement as she cooked. He admired the way she moved with such ease in the kitchen, the way her brows furrowed slightly in concentration as she carefully prepared the meal. But more than that, he was touched by the consideration she showed for him—making sure the ramen wouldn’t be too spicy, remembering his preferences without him even having to ask.

“Thank you, Hana,” Taehyung said softly, his voice almost a whisper. “It’s really thoughtful of you to make it less spicy.”

Hana glanced at him, her own cheeks warming at the genuine gratitude in his voice. “Of course, Tae. I want you to enjoy it too.”

As the ramen began to simmer, filling the kitchen with its savory aroma, Hana and Taehyung fell into a comfortable silence. The warmth of the stove contrasted with the cool night air, creating a cozy atmosphere that made the large, often intimidating kitchen feel smaller and more intimate.

When the ramen was ready, Hana carefully ladled it into two bowls, adding a soft-boiled egg and some green onions for garnish. She handed one bowl to Taehyung, who accepted it with a grateful smile.

“Thank you, Hana,” Taehyung said again, his eyes meeting hers with a look of admiration that made Hana’s heart skip a beat.

They sat together at the small kitchen table, the steam rising from their bowls in soft curls. As they ate, Hana couldn’t help but notice how Taehyung’s eyes softened whenever he looked at her, the usual intensity of his gaze replaced by something gentler, more tender.

Taehyung took a bite, his eyes lighting up as the flavor hit his taste buds. “This is perfect, Hana,” he said, smiling widely. “You’re really good at this.”

Hana blushed at the compliment, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the ramen spreading through her chest. “I’m glad you like it,” she replied softly, taking a bite herself. The meal was simple, but it was exactly what she needed—a moment of comfort in the midst of all the confusion that had been weighing her down.

As they continued to eat in silence, Hana found herself stealing glances at Taehyung. There was something different about the way he looked at her tonight, something that made her heart flutter in a way that both excited and scared her. She had always found Taehyung to be kind and caring, but this was the first time she had seen him in this light—as someone who could be more than just a friend.

When their bowls were empty, Hana leaned back in her chair, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. Taehyung mirrored her actions, his gaze never leaving her face.

“You know, Hana,” he began, his voice low and thoughtful, “I really appreciate everything you’ve done since you came here. Not just tonight, but all the little things you do for us every day. You’ve brought something special into our lives.”

Hana’s blush deepened at his words, her heart pounding in her chest. “I don’t know about that, Tae... I’m just trying to figure things out.”

Taehyung reached across the table, gently placing his hand over hers. “And that’s okay. We’re all figuring things out in our own way. But just so you know, you mean a lot to us—to me.”

Hana looked down at their hands, feeling a mix of emotions swirling within her. The way Taehyung was looking at her, the sincerity in his voice, it all made her feel seen in a way she hadn’t before. She squeezed his hand gently, a small smile playing on her lips.

“You mean a lot to me too, Tae,” she admitted softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

They stayed like that for a moment, the world outside the kitchen falling away as they shared this quiet, intimate connection. For the first time in days, Hana felt a sense of clarity, as if maybe—just maybe—she was beginning to understand her feelings after all.

When the moment finally passed, Taehyung stood up, offering his hand to Hana. “Come on, let’s get some sleep. It’s late.”

Hana nodded, taking his hand and allowing him to help her up. As they made their way back to their rooms, Hana felt a strange sense of peace settle over her. The confusion and uncertainty were still there, but so was something else—a burgeoning sense of affection for the boys who had become such an important part of her life.

And as she closed her eyes that night, she couldn’t help but wonder if this was the beginning of something beautiful.