Walk slowly (edited)

Chapter 14

I prepared dinner for Mark. Once finished serving all the food, I went to get Mark from his room. The door was not shut properly, which enabled me to see clearly that Mark was writing something on the table that accommodated a laptop and stacks of books on it. I pushed the door open, trying to call him for dinner that I had prepared.

Hearing the door open, I noticed Mark immediately shut the book he was writing on. I was surprised by his actions. Mark’s nervous facial expressions were quite clearly visible. I don’t know why he behaved like that.

“Dinner is ready.” I immediately informed him. After telling him that, I turned around and walked out when suddenly Mark called my name.

“Jinyoung.”

“Yes.” I turned back when I heard my name being called.

“Next time, knock before entering! I don’t like people coming in without my permission!” Mark firmly warned.

I just nodded. The way he said it made my appetite disappear suddenly. Somehow I cannot remember asking for permission to go into his room beforehand, I really forgot it!

I climbed up the stairs, and went straight to my room. I should let Mark dine without interference from me. Surely, it would make him enjoy his dinner more without my presence.

In less than five minutes that I had entered my room, my bedroom door was knocked from the outside. It was definitely Mark’s signal for me to open the door. Then I got right back to twisting the doorknob. I didn’t want Mark to think I was sulking with his words and behavior. I do not have the right to sulk with him. I’m just his little brother.

“Let’s eat.” Mark invited. Maybe guilt was starting to rise in his soul.

“It’s okay, just eat. I’m still full.” I gave a reason and smiled. Let me concede, that’s what I do every time anyways.

“Try to listen to others once in a while. I want you to go down now. If you don’t come down in five minutes, then you don’t have to cook anymore.” Mark left me alone after finishing the words.

With no other choice, I followed Mark’s steps from behind. What else can I do other than following his orders?

After arriving at the dining table, Mark took his seat at the head table and there was only silence. I immediately put a few scoops of rice into the bowl before taking my seat. I’ve not been able to carve a smile on my face. I tried but I still can’t.

“Try not to make a face like that in front of the food!” Mark still does not want to stop from tormenting me.

I looked right into his eyes. My heart started to feel angry. Did he not see how much I was desperately trying to bring peace in this house? Why does he keep trying to declare war between us?

“Why are you looking at me like that? Not satisfied with me? I just said something about your awful attitude, why would you be angry? How are you a good brother if you do not listen to me?” Mark casually uttered as he scooped some more rice into his bowl. Mark's words were like firing a missile. Each of the bullets hit right at me. I can’t even avoid it a little.

“Hyung, I’m full. Please put the bowl in the sink after you finish. I will wash it tomorrow.” I can’t stand his words anymore. I quit before the war of words broke out. I desperately tried to avoid starting a conflict, I do not want my efforts to improve our relationship ending in vain.

“Sit down!” Mark immediately grabbed my wrist. I tried to leave, but the grip was too strong for me to escape from Mark’s hand.

“Sit down! Never leave the table without my permission.” Mark was still holding my hand tightly, as he warned.