THE UNSEEN THREAD

PART 13

TAEHYUNG POV

After Areeba stormed out of my office, the weight of her slap still lingered on my cheek, a harsh reminder of how things had spiraled out of control. I felt a mix of frustration and regret as I left the office, watching Mr. Choi exit moments after Areeba. As I stepped outside, the weight of the decision hit me before I even spoke. I glanced at my driver, my words coming out without hesitation. "Take a cab home today. I'll drive." His face morphed into a look of disbelief, and I couldn't blame him. It wasn't like me to drive, especially not the car that the staff usually used for me or my mom. I've always had my darling-my personal car-that I'd rely on. That was my comfort zone, my way of escaping the world for a few hours whenever I needed. But today, something felt different. I wasn't heading home, not yet, and certainly not in the mood for the usual routine. It was still the afternoon, and I didn't want to sit in a room and think about everything I didn't feel like dealing with. I needed space, something different. My friend's club was the perfect distraction. I climbed into my car, the familiar interior offering little comfort. I needed to clear my mind, and there was only one place I could think of-my friends' club.

Before leaving, I quickly sent a message to Joon, asking him to meet me at the club. He always knew how to lighten the mood, and I could use the distraction. I also shot a message to Baek So Hyuk, the owner of the club, letting him know I was on my way. As the engine roared to life, I pulled out of the parking lot and merged into the evening traffic.

The city lights blurred past as I drove, my thoughts consumed by the earlier confrontation. I replayed Areeba's angry words in my head, the hurt in her eyes cutting deeper than the slap itself. I needed to let off some steam, and alcohol was the quickest way to do that.

When I arrived at the club, the music thumped through the walls, vibrating with energy. I stepped inside, the ambiance hitting me like a wave. The club was alive with laughter and chatter, and the air was thick with the scent of perfume and anticipation. I spotted Joon at a table, his easy smile cutting through the haze of my thoughts.

"Taehyung! You made it!" he called out, waving me over. I joined him, the familiar surroundings easing the tension in my shoulders.

"Hey, man. It's been a rough day," I admitted, signaling for a drink as I sank into a chair.

"Rough day? Or rough night?" Joon smirked, already sensing my mood. "You know you can talk to me, right?"

"Yeah, I know. Just... work stuff," I said, but the lie felt heavy in my mouth. I could see the curiosity in his eyes, but I wasn't ready to share the details about Areeba yet.

Baek So Hyuk appeared behind the bar, his sharp gaze catching mine as he poured drinks for a group of patrons. When he saw me, he nodded in acknowledgment, and I could tell he was ready to welcome me back with open arms. The club was his domain, and he always made sure everyone felt at home.

As I took my first sip, the warmth spread through me, momentarily dulling the thoughts of the day. Joon continued to chat, sharing stories and jokes.

I glanced at Hyuk, who was watching us intently. I hadn't planned on discussing my issues with them, but I could see that they cared. I took a deep breath, my heart racing at the thought of opening up.

After a moment, Hyuk joined Joon and me in the VIP area, plopping down on the plush couch beside us. I felt the tension in my muscles, the anger still simmering beneath the surface. Joon glanced at me, concern flickering in his eyes.