Veil of Shadows

Chapter 15: The Beginning of Everything

The next morning, Taehyung woke up first, feeling the weight of the previous night still heavy on his mind. He looked over at Jungkook, who was sleeping soundly, curled up like a baby, his face peaceful despite the fever that had wracked his body during the night. Taehyung sighed softly, his heart aching at the sight. Jungkook had vomited several times during the night, and Taehyung had stayed awake to care for him, wiping his forehead and holding him through it all. Now, the fever had lessened, but Jungkook was still weak.

Carefully, Taehyung slipped out of bed, trying not to wake Jungkook. He grabbed his phone from the nightstand and saw a message from the college principal. His leave was over, and he had to return to teaching today. He bit his lip, glancing back at Jungkook. He didn’t want to leave him alone, not when he was still recovering, but duty called.

With a quiet sigh, Taehyung went about his morning routine. After a quick shower and getting dressed in his usual professional attire, he headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. He moved quietly, not wanting to disturb Jungkook’s sleep, and soon, the aroma of warm pancakes and scrambled eggs filled the house.

Just as Taehyung was about to set the table, he heard the soft padding of footsteps from the stairs. He turned around to see Jungkook, looking pale and tired but stubborn as ever, making his way down.

Taehyung (concerned): “Kook, you’re awake. How are you feeling? You should still be resting.”

Jungkook rubbed his eyes, still a bit disoriented from the fever, but his usual determined expression was back. He walked over to Taehyung, wrapping his arms around his waist and burying his face into Taehyung’s shoulder.

Jungkook (murmuring): “I’m fine now. Better because of you.”

Taehyung ran his hand through Jungkook’s hair, sighing softly.

Taehyung (softly): “I need to head to college today, Kook. My leave is over, and I have to teach.”

Jungkook pulled back slightly, his eyes narrowing. The stubbornness in him flared up instantly.

Jungkook (determined): “Okay, but I’m also coming with you.”

Taehyung frowned, gently placing his hands on Jungkook’s shoulders.

Taehyung (firmly): “You’re still recovering. You need to rest. I’ll be back in the afternoon, Kook. Please, just stay home today.”

But Jungkook shook his head, stepping back as he crossed his arms over his chest, his expression set in stone.

Jungkook (stubbornly): “No. I’m coming with you. I don’t want to be away from you, especially after last night.”

Taehyung could see that there was no arguing with him. When Jungkook was like this, there was no changing his mind. The possessiveness in Jungkook’s eyes was unmistakable. He wasn’t going to let Taehyung go without him. Even though his body was still sore and weak, Jungkook’s protective and possessive nature over Taehyung wouldn’t let him stay behind.

Taehyung (sighing): “Kook, you’re still sick. This isn’t the time to—”

But Jungkook cut him off, already making his way to the bedroom to get ready.

Jungkook (stubbornly): “I said I’m coming, Taetae. End of discussion.”

Taehyung sighed in exasperation but knew there was no use in arguing further. Once Jungkook made up his mind, nothing could change it. He followed him upstairs and watched as Jungkook began to slowly get dressed, wincing occasionally from the soreness in his body.

Taehyung (softly): “At least take it easy today, Kook. Please.”

Jungkook didn’t respond immediately, but after a moment, he glanced over at Taehyung, his gaze softening slightly.