Between the notes

Chapter 3: The Tension

Over the next few weeks, the tension between V and Jungkook only grew. They spent more time together, their connection deepening with each passing day. It was as though they were always orbiting around each other, never fully touching, but always aware of the other's presence. V would catch Jungkook's gaze during practice, the spark of something more in the younger man's eyes, and his heart would stutter. Jungkook would find his thoughts drifting to V during interviews, his smile lingering on his lips even when the cameras weren't rolling.

But the two of them kept it hidden. They couldn't risk it—not with their careers, not with the world watching. So, they found solace in stolen moments. A quiet conversation in the practice room, a shared glance across the table at dinner, the way their fingers would brush ever so slightly when passing a bottle of water.

One night, after an especially grueling rehearsal, the dorm was quiet, the rest of the members already asleep. V and Jungkook found themselves alone on the balcony, the cool night air wrapping around them.

"You're quiet tonight," Jungkook remarked, leaning against the railing beside V.

V let out a soft laugh, his eyes glinting in the dim light. "Just tired, I guess."

Jungkook's gaze flicked to him, a small frown crossing his face. "You've been acting weird lately, hyung. You're not the same as you used to be."

V met his eyes, his heart racing. There was no hiding it anymore. No more pretending. The attraction had always been there, but it had grown into something more—something undeniable.

"Maybe I'm not the same," V said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. "Maybe I'm... changing."

Jungkook's breath hitched. "Hyung..."

Without another word, V stepped closer, his body pressing lightly against Jungkook's. His hands found Jungkook's shoulders, and for the briefest moment, they both stood still, caught in the delicate balance of anticipation and fear.

And then, without thinking, V closed the distance, his lips brushing against Jungkook's in the softest of kisses.

It was gentle at first, hesitant, like two people stepping into a new world they weren't sure they were ready for. But then, as if they'd both been holding their breath for too long, it deepened—Jungkook's arms wrapping around V's waist, pulling him closer. V melted into him, his hands slipping into Jungkook's hair, tugging him closer still.

When they pulled away, breathless, V's heart pounded in his chest, and Jungkook's eyes were wide, still searching his face for some sign that this was real.

"Are you sure about this?" Jungkook asked, his voice a low murmur.

V nodded, a soft smile curving his lips. "I think I've known for a long time, Kookie. I just didn't know how to say it."