STAY for a while (Taekook)

💜Chapter- 41💜

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"So, young man," the old man said, his voice calm as he observed Tae, a tall and handsome figure now standing in the room, his eyes scanning the space. The room’s theme—rabbits and carrots—was oddly cheerful, a contrast to his cold demeanor. He sighed, clearly uncomfortable, but his attention snapped back when he heard the same voice again. The old man, who had earlier lectured him about politeness and adaptability.

He turned and faced him, his expression unreadable. "What?" he asked, his deep voice.

Old man smiled, the same soft, warm smile that had caught Tae’s attention earlier. It was a smile that, despite everything, seemed genuine and welcoming.

"Well," the man said, still standing just outside the door, "before you freshen up, tell me—what’s your preference in food?"

Tae’s eyes narrowed, and his jaw tightened. "No need. I want nothing."

"Nothing?" the old man repeated, raising an eyebrow, but his tone remained gentle.

Tae held his gaze, his muscles tensing. He didn’t like this. The thought of staying here, being cared for by this old man, grated on him. But he couldn't bring himself to snap. The man was far older than him, deserving of respect, no matter how frustrating this situation was.

"It's night, and soon it might snow," the old man continued, as if he hadn't noticed Tae's discomfort. "I’ve made some hot noodles with chicken soup. It'll help you feel warm."

Tae clenched his fists slightly, holding back his irritation. The thought of food, of warmth, was tempting, but the idea of accepting kindness from a stranger didn’t sit right with him.

"Send here," Tae muttered.

The old man simply smiled again, his expression calm and knowing, as if he’d expected this response. He nodded and, without another word, turned to leave.

Tae watched him go, his frustration simmering beneath the surface.

He walked into the washroom, the cool water splashing on his face, trying to clear the haze of frustration that clung to him. When he returned, the sight of the same old man standing at the door caught him off guard. In his hands, he held a tray of food.

"Don’t you have any staff? Why are you coming yourself?" Tae asked, his voice flat but edged with curiosity.

old man looked at him with the same calmness, a faint smile still playing on his lips. "It’s late, and they all live nearby. They went home early. That’s why I’m here."

Tae blinked, not realizing how late it had gotten. The man’s persistence was baffling.

The old man continued, still standing in the doorway, "Young man, if you allow, I’d love to serve you."

His words pulled Tae’s attention fully. He looked at the man, then at the food. There was a hesitation, but the old man’s unwavering kindness made it harder to refuse.

"It’s fine, you can just give it to me," Tae finally said, stepping toward him. But before he could take the tray, his phone vibrated on the table. Both their eyes flickered toward it.

The old man’s smile softened, and he gave a gentle nod, gesturing with his eyes for Tae to take the call. "Go ahead, I’ll serve."

Tae hesitated, then nodded back, answering his phone. As the old man quietly set the table, man expression shifted, softening when a sweet, melodic voice echoed from the other end.