Midas Touch ➸ Taekook

- Twenty-fourth -

Evening was falling on the Xavier Institute, enveloping the ancient walls in a soft golden glow. Several days had passed since the mission to the villa, and although the news had initially come as a shock, everyone had welcomed the announcement of Jin and Namjoon's wedding with enthusiasm. Preparations had already begun, as they had decided to hold the ceremony at the Institute. The whole manor was abuzz with excitement. Yet this evening, the wedding was far from being the main preoccupation.

Excitement hung in the air as the teenagers prepared for the school's bal. Taehyung, however, stood back, watching the comings and goings with a distracted eye. This kind of event had never been his forte. Slipping into a costume, facing a room full of strangers, pretending to have fun while the constant fear of touching and hurting someone hovered over his head... None of this really interested him. He preferred to stay in the warmth and safety of the Institute.

However, that didn't stop him from helping Kitty finish getting ready, especially with her make-up and hair. Strangely enough, he was quite good at it, and his friend had quickly realised this. He was currently putting lip gloss on her lips, with the young girl giving him amused glances through the mirror.

"You know, it's a bit sad that you're not coming, Taehyung." she said, arranging a lock of hair. "A ball is a chance to have fun, to dance a bit... with everything we've been through these past few days, it'll do us all good..."

He shrugged, a shy smile on his lips.

"Maybe, but it's not really my thing." he replied. "I think I'd be more stressed at this ball than here, so it's for the best. Besides, look, everyone's ready to go already. You won't have time to worry about me when you get there."

Kitty glared at him in the mirror.

"Last chance, Tae! Are you sure you don't want to come with us? You've still got time to get ready quickly!"

But Taehyung shook his head, putting a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"I'll be fine. Enjoy the ball for both of us."

Kitty sighed, but a smile stretched her lips as she checked the work of her make-up artist. Satisfied, she got up and grabbed her bag, gave him one last look, then joined the rest of the students downstairs so that they could all leave together. Gradually, the Institute emptied, and silence filled the place. Taehyung, now alone, made his way to the large lounge, a feeling of calm settling over him.

He sat down on the sofa and turned on the television, flipping from channel to channel until he came across an old science fiction film, enjoying the rare tranquillity of the Institute. The dimmed lights, the empty living room... it was perfect for relaxing.

While his gaze was riveted on the screen, he heard light footsteps behind his back, like a feline approaching its prey.

"Oh, what are you doing here, chéri?" came Jungkook's smooth voice from behind his back.

The teenager turned towards him, watching the man settle in beside him.

"What do you mean?"

The Cajun gave him a mischievous smile, one of those that only he knew the secret of.

"Chéri, I know very well that your school was organising a ball this evening. If even I, who doesn't talk to anyone here but you, knew about it, it must be the biggest event of the year. So why are you here, moping in front of the TV, instead of out there dancing?"

A pout appeared on Taehyung's lips. Why does everyone always assume that if you don't want to go out, you must be doing something wrong?

"I didn't want to go. I hate that sort of thing."