Little (Under Editing)

Chapter 23: A Night of Comfort and Confessions

Chapter 23: A Night of Comfort and Confessions

The air hummed with the comforting warmth of Jin’s cooking – a lavish spread of savory dishes and sweet treats, a thoughtful gesture perfectly timed for Jungkook’s planned sleepover. The moment they were alone in Taehyung’s room, a comfortable silence settled, broken only by the soft rustle of blankets as Taehyung nestled into Jungkook’s embrace. Jungkook responded with a gentle caress, his touch feather-light, yet profoundly reassuring. Taehyung felt utterly cherished, a precious gem held safely within Jungkook’s embrace. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast long shadows across the room, highlighting the gentle rise and fall of Jungkook’s chest as Taehyung rested his head there.

"Jungkookie," Taehyung murmured, his voice a low hum against Jungkook’s chest.

"Yes?" Jungkook responded, his fingers gently tracing patterns in Taehyung’s hair, a soothing rhythm that calmed Taehyung's racing thoughts.

"You seem… burdened lately," Taehyung said, lifting his head slightly to gaze into Jungkook’s eyes. Concern etched his features, a subtle frown furrowing his brow. "Are you truly alright?"  He reached up, his fingers brushing a stray strand of hair from Jungkook's forehead.

Jungkook sighed, a low, weary sound that spoke volumes. "Being the son of the wealthiest and most demanding man in the world… it's not a fairytale," he admitted, his voice laced with a quiet exhaustion. "I've had to relentlessly chase goals set by them, just to be considered worthy. It's been mentally draining, a constant pressure I haven't been able to shake." He paused, his gaze drifting to the ceiling, a faraway look in his eyes. "It feels like I'm running on a treadmill, always striving, never quite reaching the finish line."

Taehyung's eyes softened with empathy, his heart aching for the weight Jungkook carried. "But Jungkookie, you are perfect," he insisted, his voice filled with genuine admiration. He tightened his embrace slightly, offering a silent reassurance. "You're the most handsome man I've ever seen, and you're incredibly intelligent. Is there truly anything else you feel you need to achieve? You're already extraordinary."

A soft chuckle rumbled from Jungkook’s chest, a sound that was both weary and fond. "Thank you for the compliments, baby," he said, his tone laced with affection. "But in their eyes, it's never enough. One single mistake, and I'd be deemed a failure, the worst son imaginable. It's suffocating." He shifted slightly, pulling Taehyung closer, seeking the comfort of his presence.

Taehyung frowned, his brow furrowing with disapproval. "That's insane," he protested, his voice firm. "If I were your parents, I'd be bursting with pride.  You're kind, compassionate, and fiercely loyal. Those qualities are far more valuable than any amount of wealth or achievement."

"I'm glad to hear that," Jungkook replied, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. He leaned down, kissing Taehyung's forehead gently. "But I wouldn't want you as my parents, I don't think I would be able to flirt with you like this." he added playfully, his words tinged with a flirtatious undercurrent.  He gently tucked a stray strand of hair behind Taehyung's ear, the intimate gesture sending a blush creeping across Taehyung's cheeks. The simple act felt intensely personal, a silent declaration of affection.

Taehyung's voice dropped to a near whisper, his hands clutching Jungkook’s shirt. "T-that's not what I meant," he stammered, his cheeks burning. "I'm serious, Jungkook. It's absurd that they believe one mistake could define you. You're so much more than that."

Jungkook smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Don't worry so much, baby. As long as I'm with you, I'm fine." He squeezed Taehyung's hand reassuringly.

Taehyung’s pout deepened. "I just hate that they try to control you. It's infuriating, especially that forced marriage. The thought of you marrying someone you don't love… it's incredibly stressful. It makes me so angry and jealous. If you were with someone, how about me?"  He felt a surge of protectiveness towards Jungkook, a fierce desire to shield him from the pressures he faced.

"It is stressful," Jungkook agreed, his voice low and thoughtful. "But we don't need to worry about that anymore."

Taehyung's brow arched in confusion. "Why?"

"I had a long talk with Yun Seong. We're on the same page. She doesn't want this marriage either. It's a strategic alliance, nothing more. She's playing along until she secures the heir position, then she'll end things. She actually understands, and even expressed support for… us. Isn't that amazing of her?" Jungkook explained, his voice softening as he shared the details of his conversation with Yun Seong.

Taehyung's eyes widened in astonishment. "Really, Jungkookie?"

"Yes," Jungkook confirmed, his voice warm and reassuring. "She's surprisingly kind and understanding. She even wants to support us. Isn't that wonderful, love?" He gently cupped Taehyung's face, his thumbs caressing his cheeks. "We'll be happy together, even if it seems complicated right now. Let's wait for the right moment. I promise we'll have a happy life together." He leaned down and softly kissed Taehyung's forehead, a tender gesture that sealed their unspoken promises.

Taehyung snuggled closer, a wave of happiness washing over him, erasing the earlier anxieties. The butterflies in his stomach fluttered excitedly. He felt a profound sense of peace and contentment nestled in Jungkook's arms. He loves these strange feelings he only felt for Jungkook. He wished it wouldn't vanish easily because he truly enjoyed it.

Jungkook whispered into Taehyung's hair, "I like you, babe. More than words can say. I'll do anything to make our dreams come true."

Taehyung's cheeks flushed crimson as he whispered back, his voice thick with emotion, "I like you too, Jungkook.  More than you know."

Jungkook's surprise quickly melted into a soft chuckle. He was deeply in love, and he couldn't deny it any longer. He vowed to cherish this relationship, determined to never let it slip away. He held Taehyung close, feeling the warmth of his body against his own, a comforting weight that grounded him in the present moment. The future might hold uncertainties, but at this moment, surrounded by the quiet comfort of Taehyung's presence, Jungkook felt a profound sense of peace and belonging.