You Never Know [JIKOOK]

51. Darker

Jimin didn’t expect to be welcomed by the darkness when he entered Jungkook’s apartment.

The stillness in the air felt unnatural, almost suffocating. Jungkook’s car was parked in the garage, so he had to be here.

But why was the apartment in complete darkness? Why hadn’t he turned on the lights?

Frowning, Jimin reached for the switch near the door and flicked it on. A soft glow filled the living room, but everything seemed too quiet, too untouched. A gnawing unease settled in his chest as he called out.

“Love?” His voice echoed, unanswered.

He set his keys on the counter and made his way to Jungkook’s room. The door was slightly ajar, but the darkness within made it feel like a void.

Slowly, Jimin pushed the door open and fumbled for the switch. The sudden brightness revealed a spotless bedroom, neat and organized, with no sign of Jungkook.

His frown deepened. Something felt off. He checked the bathroom—empty. The bedroom—silent. His heart pounded as he scanned the room again, but nothing seemed out of place.

“Love?” he called again, louder this time. Still, no answer.

Returning to the living room, Jimin’s eyes caught the slight movement of the curtain by the patio door. The sliding door was open, the fabric swaying gently in the breeze. His stomach churned as he stepped closer.

Pushing the curtain aside, he stepped onto the patio and froze.

Jungkook stood at the far corner, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the dark sky. He was holding a glass of whiskey, his gaze fixed on the distance as if lost in another world.

“Hey,” Jimin said softly, approaching him cautiously. “What are you doing here?”

Jungkook didn’t respond. He didn’t even glance at him. His shoulders were rigid, his face blank, but the air around him screamed pain. Jimin’s heart ached at the sight. His grip on the glass was tight, his knuckles pale.

Sensing the heaviness in the air, Jimin’s voice softened further. “Love, is something wrong?”

“Shall we move out?” Jungkook asked suddenly, his voice dry and detached, catching Jimin off guard.

Jimin blinked in confusion. “What are you talking about?” he asked gently, placing a tentative hand on Jungkook’s arm.

Jungkook let out a hollow laugh, his gaze fixed on the stars. “Let’s move far away. Somewhere quiet. We can build a small house. I don’t care how small, as long as you’re with me.” His voice cracked slightly, and he bit his lip as he looked at Jimin. “We can be happy, just you and me.”

The sincerity in his tone made Jimin’s chest tighten. But there was something off—something broken. “Kook,” he said gently, cupping Jungkook’s arm. “Why are you saying this? What’s going on?”

Jungkook finally turned to him, and the sight made Jimin’s breath hitch. His husband’s face was pale, his eyes red and swollen from crying. Tear tracks stained his cheeks, and his lips were cracked, as if he hadn’t taken care of himself for hours.

“Baby…” Jimin whispered, his heart shattering.

Jungkook forced a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “We can build a family there. Your mom and Minju can stay with us. I’ll be a good father. I’ll take care of everyone.” His voice wavered, and tears began to spill again. “I’ll be happy as long as you’re with me.”

Jimin’s heart ached at the vulnerability in Jungkook’s voice. “Of course, I want to be with you,” he said softly, his fingers brushing against Jungkook’s arm. “But why are you saying this? What’s wrong?”