A Taste Of Midnight

82

The dining room was warm and inviting, the soft hum of casual conversation filling the air. The table was laden with dishes, a blend of Jungkook's mother's home-cooked meals and a few items Seokjin had discreetly brought to avoid suspicion. Seokjin sat beside Jungkook, his expression calm but tinged with nervous energy.

Weeks had passed since the confrontation with Taehyung, and though the shadows of that night still lingered, the tension between Seokjin and Jungkook had eased. They'd found solace in each other, their bond growing stronger with each passing day.

Jungkook's mother, a warm and cheerful woman, set down a plate of steaming dumplings before taking her seat. "I'm so glad you both could make it tonight," she said, smiling at Seokjin. "It's been a while since we've all been together."

"It has," Seokjin agreed, his voice gentle. "Thank you for inviting me."

Jungkook's father, seated at the head of the table, raised his glass. "Let's not waste time, then. To family and to love!"

Jungkook exchanged a glance with Seokjin, his hand brushing lightly against Seokjin's under the table. There was a brief moment of silent understanding before Jungkook cleared his throat.

"Actually, there's something we wanted to talk to you about," Jungkook said, his tone steady but earnest.

His mother's eyes lit up with curiosity, while his father arched an eyebrow. "Oh? What is it?"

Seokjin glanced at Jungkook, giving him a small nod. Taking a deep breath, Jungkook leaned forward. "Seokjin and I... we've decided to get married."

The words hung in the air for a brief moment before his mother gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. "Oh, Jungkook! That's wonderful news!"

His father broke into a wide smile, leaning back in his chair. "Married, huh? I knew it was only a matter of time. Congratulations, son. And to you too, Seokjin."

Seokjin bowed his head slightly, a soft smile gracing his lips. "Thank you. It means a lot to have your support."

His mother reached across the table, placing her hand over Seokjin's. "Of course, dear. You make Jungkook so happy-it's all we've ever wanted for him."

Jungkook's cheeks flushed slightly at his mother's words, but his smile remained steady. "We're really excited about it," he said. "But there's something we wanted to discuss about the wedding."

His parents exchanged a curious glance. "What is it?" his father asked.

"We'd like to have the ceremony at night," Jungkook said carefully. "In a private setting. Just a small gathering-us, you two, and maybe a couple of close friends."

His mother blinked, her smile faltering slightly. "At night? Why at night?"

"It's... important to us," Jungkook said, choosing his words cautiously. "We want it to be intimate. Quiet. Something that feels like ours, you know?"

His father frowned slightly. "I get the private part, but why at night? Weddings are usually during the day. It's tradition."

Jungkook shifted in his seat, feeling the weight of their questioning gazes. "It's just what we want," he said firmly.

"It's a little unusual," his mother said gently, though her tone carried a hint of concern. "Are you sure?"

Seokjin spoke up then, his voice calm and soothing. "We understand it's not traditional," he said, meeting their gazes with quiet confidence. "But this ceremony is deeply personal to us. The time and setting are symbolic for what we've been through together."