Spring Day // Kim Taehyung ( V )

Chapter 35

George called out from the kitchen, her voice cheerful and uncharacteristically relaxed. "Bye, see you guys later!" She headed toward the door, a bright smile lingering on her face. Her mood seemed unusually light, enough that she even acknowledged my presence without hesitation—an oddity lately, considering how distant she'd been feeling.

J-hope glanced over and said softly, "She seems happy today." He settled beside me, a gentle smile on his face.

"Her birthday's tomorrow," Namjoon added, voice calm but thoughtful.

The room grew silent for a moment as the realization sank in. Everyone exchanged glances—silent understanding passing between us.

So, tomorrow is her birthday. And Joan and the others are coming. The pieces clicked into place. This was the reason for her unexpectedly good mood—an impending surprise party, perhaps? I'd been so wrapped up in my own worries that I hadn't considered it. Now I felt a pang of regret. I should have suggested taking her out tomorrow, instead of leaving it to Jackson. But honestly, I doubted she'd go for that idea.

Jungkook's eyes sparkled with excitement. "For real? Let's get her a cake then."

His enthusiasm was contagious, as it always was on special days. I remembered how Jimin started that tradition—buying a cake for whoever's birthday it was. It was a simple gesture, but it brought everyone together.

"What flavor do you think she'd like? Chocolate? Vanilla? Coffee?" Jimin asked, his voice tinged with nervous anticipation.

"Chocolate sounds good," Jin Hyung replied with a warm smile.

They continued brainstorming, oblivious to my inner conflict. I was standing there, feeling helpless. Whatever I gave her, I doubted she'd accept it—she thought everything was contaminated by Lisa's touch. The least I could do was plan the surprise for Joan's arrival tomorrow. That much I could manage. And I'd keep it quiet—she didn't need to know I was the one orchestrating it.

"Namjoon Hyung, can we talk in the kitchen for a moment?" I whispered, voice barely audible. He looked at me, concern flickering in his eyes, but nodded.

Once inside, I asked, "Do you have Jackson's number?"

He hesitated, knowing what I might be planning. But he handed over his phone, and I quickly added Jackson's contact. I mouthed a thank you, then stepped outside to dial.

The call was awkward from the start.

"Yobeoseyo?"

"Hey... is George with you?"

"Whose this?"

"Just answer my question, and I'll explain. I need to talk to you about something—can you give me a few minutes without George knowing?"

There was a pause, then, "Uh, sure."

Suddenly, I heard a voice in the background. "Whose that, babe?"

I rolled my eyes. Jackson's voice was distracted, familiar with that tone.

"It's my dad. Important. I'll see you during break, okay?"

"Okay, babe. I love you."

"I love you too."

A pang hit my chest at the sound of their affection. I knew I shouldn't have called. It felt wrong, intrusive even.

"Hello? Taehyung? Are you still there?"

"Yeah," I replied softly.

"She's gone," Jackson said. "What's this about?"

I hesitated, then pushed forward. "Her birthday's tomorrow, right?"

He sounded surprised. "It is?"

I couldn't help but smirk bitterly. "You didn't know?"