Kim Taehyung was on the run.
Not by choice but from necessity.
He was practically booted out of Seoul,away from the comfort of his luxurious villa,his beloved family,his distinguished, accomplished career,his fans, only to find himself behind the wheels of a black,vintage Ford Mustang one Friday night, setting off with no clear destination, a modest suitcase stuffed on the back, leather seat and soft,jazz music keeping him company.
All that because of one ridiculous, unsubstantial rumour. One drunken night at a prestigious club after winning the 'Best Actor 'at the 20th Seoul International Drama Awards for the tenth consecutive year.
That night,still blurry in his mind, led to a sequence of events that drove him to this precise moment. There have been rumours concerning his love life from time to time but Tae guarded his personal life, keeping it away from the spotlights,prying eyes and unwanted scrutiny.
As a public figure he had learnt to act cautiously and cleverly avoided replying to mischievous questions by the press. His private affairs remained exclusively private and the majority of his fanbase had accepted it over the years.
At present,his entire career, excellent name and impeccable reputation was on the line, threatened by a potential scandal, powerful enough to crumble down the mere foundations of his distinguished career. His company and manager Hoseok had advised him to keep a low profile, disappear for a short period and allow them to handle it and minimise the damage.
His agency had found him a secluded hideaway at a Godforsaken place somewhere up north but at the last minute he decided not to go and seek another shelter. Wherever the road led him.
Kim Taehyung or best known as V.
A screen icon.
A household name.
An esteemed performer.
The kind of man whose devilishly handsome face lived on billboards,screens and people's dreams. The camera had loved him for more than a decade but fame had carved into him with confidence,hard work and a constant pursuit of success.
Fame had polished him,not changed him. He was talented,kind but above all thoughtful.Under the camera lights he was a masterpiece. In the dark,a simple man learning to live without applause.
He had the kind of success that didn't allow or forgive mistakes and silence. A small price to pay for fulfilling his long life dream.
He had fought hard to establish his name,going from one audition to another,getting rejected, starving in a tiny one- bedroom apartment, counting every win he had,doing multiple jobs just to make ends meet.
Now he was reaping the benefits of his struggles. He was determined not to allow a fucken whore,seeking five minutes of fame – his fame – to ruin everything he had fought for.
The open, empty road welcomed him. Headlights cutting through the dusk like tired eyes. Wind spilling through his half opened window,the air smelling like dust,mud and freedom.
His long,veiny fingers squeezed the wheel,tires humming against the bumpy road, driving him towards whatever awaited for him behind the mountains.
He parked at the side of the vast, empty road, blasting up dust,reached out in the glove box and grabbed his cigarettes. As he pressed it between his pink,bowed lips,lit it and drew the first puff, drawing curls of smoke,his muscles relaxed. His head hinged on the headrest and legs stretched under the wheel to get rid of the stiffness.
He had to find a place to spend the night. Somewhere off the beaten track where he had less chances of being recognised. He doubted the possibility due to his fame but if he stayed just for the night and left at dawn before everyone woke up to continue his journey,he could go unnoticed.
Tossing the cigarette butt out the window,the car engine started with a harsh roar. In a heartbeat the Mustang tore down the vast highway,scattering dirt and raising a heavy cloud of dust as he sped away. He took the first turn on the left at a junction,now entering a more narrow road,steering him towards a village.
Slowing down while entering it,the streets were practically empty,his eyes wandered around the brightly painted houses, colourful coffee shops,the maze- like backstreets and labyrinth alley-ways.
He was impressed.
He had never visited this part of the country before. He preferred modern,bustling cities with flashy shops,lavish restaurants and upscale nightclubs. A repressed desire from his days growing up in Daegu.
Tae searched for the first available hotel outside the centre and discovered a cute, little purple Inn at the side of a narrow alley.
The hardest part was going in and out in the morning without being recognised. He wasn't in the mood to have the paparazzi surprising him outside his door, asking questions he couldn't answer.
Parking the car near a lavender Florist's shop,he killed the engine, gripped on his suitcase,locked the car and marched into the hotel but before he had put on his black hoodie in a desperate attempt to hide part of his face.
" Good evening sir. Welcome to our beautiful village. First time here?"A smiley,old woman,around sixty, behind the reception desk asked.
" Yeah. Never been here before."he admitted,his head hugging low but eyes meticulously scanning the area around him.
" Our village is small but.."
" Colourful.. I noticed."
The older woman's thin lips broke into a smile." Hard to miss. Now how may I help you?"
" I'd like a room for the night." He coughed, keeping his head low and eyes on the desk.
" Of course." The old woman turned around,took a set of keys from the cubbyhole in the back and left it on the counter. " Room 7. The morning buffet opens at 7 and closes at 9 if you'd like to have breakfast." She then rotated the guest book." Would you sign your name,please?"
Tae froze on the spot. He hadn't thought about that. What if she asked for an ID? Name..what name? He wrote the first one that popped to mind. Park. Jimin,his best friend, was the only thing he came up with. Luckily she skipped the ID part. " I'll be leaving first thing in the morning."
" As you wish Mr.Park.. I'm Mrs. Han. Your room is up the stairs, fourth door on the right. Have a good night."
" Thanks.." he breathed softly and with his suitcase in one hand and the key in the other,he climbed up the stairs to room 7,cracked the door open and closed it the minute he stepped in.
A deep sigh left his lips as he combed the area. It was rather cozy with caramel colours in a mixture of old and new style. A vintage,wooden bed in warm beige at the back wall facing the door and a wooden table with two chairs. The window wasn't exactly big but as he realised,gave a breathtaking view of the village.
Nothing fancy but comfy,far from the luxury he was used to. However,what he felt was an unexpected warmth,an odd familiarity. Like he had been there before although it was impossible.
He'd definitely remember it! There was a tiny crack in his neck when he swirled it around to weed out the stiffness and immediately threw his clothes on the chair and hit the shower.
The bathroom was too small for him. He could barely fit under the shower and splashed water all over the floor while bathing.
Barefoot he went back to his room,a towel hooked on his hips and another in his hands, wiping the water from his hair. He sat at the edge of the bed, yawning.
It was a hell of a day!
One he never wanted to live again.
His phone was switched off and he intended to keep it that way till he reached his destination. Hearing his agent, Jimin and his hyungs nagging was the last thing he needed at that moment.
Once fully dried,he opened his suitcase, grabbed a black boxer,put it on and got himself under the fluffy covers, staring at the ceiling. It wasn't long before tiredness wrapped him and corked off on the soft,lavender scent pillows,no thoughts pestering his mind. Just peace and quiet…
_____________
The sun poured through the window,crisp and clear,casting a rosy hue across the room. Tae rubbed his eyes, stretched his limbs as he opened them fully.
His first move was to check the time on his wrist watch. Six in the morning. He had to move fast and leave before the other guests got down for breakfast.
He kicked the covers with his feet,arose from the bed, went straight to the bathroom to wash his face then put on a light blue pair of jeans,a white T-shirt and a red hoodie,closed his bag and creeped out the corridor and down the stairs, where he met smiley Mrs.Han.
" Good morning Mr.Park. Had a pleasant night?"
" Yeah,great." He answered in a hurry,took out his brown, leather wallet and waited.
" It's sixty thousand won, please."
Tae handed her the money,got his receipt,head low again, avoiding eye contact and turned around to leave, mumbling a good day. "Wouldn't you like some breakfast?"
" I have to hit the road..but thanks." He bustled out the door,his ear catching a distant 'goodbye' and marched to his car. The road lacked in commotion – the better for him – and got inside his car, behind the wheel. He was about to start the engine when something unexpected caught his attention.
A fuss at the florist shop across the hotel. A bulky,older man was harshly picking on a younger boy, waving his fists,moving dangerously close to the boy whose back was turned facing the road. His body had gained a defensive posture, slightly flinching at each yell.
Tae cursed. In his head and out loud. He stood still,his shoulders tensed,fists squashing the wheel,jaw clenched, weighing his options. Should he get involved? Should he save the boy and teach that bastard a lesson? Or ignore it and drive away?
Tae hated bullies and he had encountered many in the past.His logic screamed ' Start the fucken engine and go'. His morality was shouting " Go help,moron'.
The last thing he could afford right now was to engage into a verbal quarrel or a physical fight,punch his face,break his bones and end up at the police station for questioning.!
Reporters, paparazzi and sites would love that! But watching that dickhead nearly attacking and snabbing at the poor boy,his stomach coiled with anger. The air inside the car felt suffocating,rage taking over.
" Stay out of it. It's not your business." His hand held the key on the ignition ready to start the car." Don't. Turn away and leave." His logic was battling with his immanent morality and right now it was losing,his hand involuntarily letting go of the key.
" Fuck!" He cursed through gnashed teeth, thrashing his fist on the wheel. It didn't take him long to decide. He yanked the door open,got out,slammed it behind him in silent rage,his dark hair dangling by the light, morning breeze while striding towards them,an electric storm leading his feet.
The bulky,older man,still shouting,hoisted his right hand,about to hit the younger but was abruptly prevented by Tae who, using his body as a shield, stood between them,blocking him.
Snatching his wrist, pulling his hand down and before he knew it,in a swift move,he shifted him around, twisting his hand behind his back,his other one hooked around his neck to overpower him.
" Hey. What the.." the man managed to lisp as Tae gripped him tighter.
" Why don't you pick on someone your own size?" The words slashed through the breeze,his voice raspy yet honey-sweet with an apparent intimidating tone,eyes burning with intensity ready to cause chaos.He breathed a faint whiff of booze and felt him trembling. Bullies were always craven when meeting their match.
" Who the fuck are you?" he hissed at the rough gripping, striving to pull his wrist and set free.
" A good Samaritan and your worst nightmare."
" I don't give a fuck who you think you are. I've got unfinished business with that boy." he snapped back but as Tae tightened his grip around his neck, his shaking was hard to miss.
" What is your problem? Because whatever it is, I'm sure you can solve it without acting like a jerk."
The man huffed and hissed." He sent me the wrong flowers. I asked for red roses and the idiot sent me white."
Tae shook his head not knowing if he wanted to laugh or kick him in the balls. All that because of a wrong order." Did it cross your mind to ask nicely instead of behaving like a bully? " He released his grip,jogged him and the man stumbled before regaining his balance.
" He insisted I ordered white. I lost it. " he justified his behaviour, massaging his wrist.
" Well..you did.." a mellifluous voice, barely above a whisper,hummed gently. Tae's heart unwillingly flattered in his chest but didn't dare turn around. He gulped as his hand touched his heart that was beating like a drumstick.
" He'll send you the red roses. Now beat it." His firm demand forced the man to shut his mouth,lower his head and flee like a coward, running towards the end of the road.
Tae gradually shifted his body,his gaze colliding with a sight so divine it felt unreal. His heart halted at the sheer perfection. Their eyes locked,enveloped in silence and remained that way,neither willing to look away, greedily savoring the sight. Cheeks flushed, heartbeats skipped,chest rising and falling. For Tae the world seemed to narrow to one frame,one face.
His face.The stranger standing a breath away.
There was chaos inside him.
Warmth spread in every pore with an odd familiarity but at the same time his blood was bubbling in his veins with an inexplicable force that scared him. The words choked in his throat, awkwardly swallowing. It felt like his body remembered something,his mind was unable to name.
" Thank you..for saving me." There it was again. That silky,sweet voice that stirred up a wild, beastly heartbeat.
Tae blushed. He actually blushed,his cheeks were on the verge of erupting. He was stunned because he had no clue he could do that."No–nothing.." he coughed." I– I'm glad I could help.." Was he stuttering? For real?
The younger flashed a beaming smile, one that resembled a cute bunny, showing the pure perfection of his adorable dimples and Tae thought he'd faint. His head was spinning like a fucken rollercoaster.
"You know he did order white roses. But Mr. Choi likes to fuss."
" He tried to hit you."
" He'd never hit me." Jungkook reassured him calmly." He's a good man..a bit troubled but kind. I've known him all my life."
" If you say so.." He let out a frustrated sigh followed by a shy laugh, choking a moan he didn't even know he was holding back." So..is that your shop?" He angled his head towards the building behind him.
" Yes. I own it."
" It's beautiful. I love the colour. So bright and optimistic."
" As you have already seen the village has a preference on vivid colours so I couldn't paint mine white as much as I wanted to." He wiggled his shoulders."Lavender was my second pick."
Tae cracked a smile." A wonderful choice." he seemed to smile more than usual today.
The younger bit his lower lip and Tae couldn't but focus his attention on those juicy, luscious,pink lips that aroused emotions he didn't know he had." I'm so sorry..I don't even know your name. I'm Jeon Jungkook."
For a brief moment Taehyung's mind stuck. Name..he had to remember his name. Could he with those enticing eyes staring right into his soul?His situation got even worse when Jungkook bowed then stretched his long hand for him to accept. As the older touched the silky skin,shivers rushed along his spine,his stomach tingled with anticipation and jolts of unbearable heat tore through his veins.
" Park.. I'm Park Taehyung.."
Their hands were still tangled, nobody was willing to let go. Jungkook's honey brown eyes sparkled as the sun timidly arose from behind the towering mountains,casting soft shadows of sunlight on his gorgeous face." It's a pleasure meeting you, Taehyungie hyung."
If Tae was ice he would have melted on the spot. For a man who detested being called 'hyung', hearing it from Jungkook's lips was entirely different,a heavenly melody. " The pleasure is all mine, Jungkook." He hunkered down, lips gently kissing his hand, observing the blush on his puffy cheeks.
" Could I offer you some coffee as a thank you for your help?" he immediately suggested, gulping down a heavy sigh from the touch.
Tae should have denied. He ought to have said no,get into his car and drive away to safety but his lips wouldn't comply. They were stubbornly refusing to obey any other order than the one dictated by his heart." I don't want to impose. Maybe you're busy."
" Don't worry. Work starts after nine anyway.."
The man involuntarily let go of his hand, losing that familiar warmth he surprisingly longed for,watching him open the door and signalling him to enter. The door shut behind him with a soft bang,the rich fragrance of blossoms struck him. It was like stepping into a colourful garden. The thick scent made him dizzy and warm. A variety of different flowers was scattered left and right yet his gaze was focused on Jungkook, gracefully moving around.
" You've got a nice place here." He stuffed his hands inside his pockets standing next to a stock of red roses,gaze wandering around the shop.
Jungkook was at the back preparing two cups of coffee. "It was made with love.. I adore flowers! Do you drink sugar or milk in your coffee?"
Tae hated that damn thing. He was more of a tea person and couldn't for the life of him understand how people drank that black liquid. However,he kept it to himself and casually replied." Sugar,no milk."
Jungkook returned with two cups of steaming instant coffee, handing him one as he sat on one of the two chairs in front of his small,wooden desk. Tae took a seat on the other, stretching his legs, holding the cup between his fingers. He hesitantly gulped down a sip, trying not to show his detest. Surprisingly,the taste wasn't as bad as he expected. Probably because Jungkook had made it for him.
" What do you do for a living,hyung?"
The older had no answer for that. Jungkook didn't seem to recognise him and that was convenient." I'm between jobs for the moment. Weighing my options. Trying to figure out what to do next. " he lied with such ease that he felt guilty for misleading him, however being an excellent actor had its advantages, like easily persuading someone you're not lying.
" Oh, I see..Are you going somewhere specific? Back home maybe? To your family? Or to a girlfriend?" The constant chewing on his lips,the way his fingers clutched around the cup,made Taehyung's mind fantasize how it would feel to kiss him, how his fingers would feel touching his burning skin.
" I'm on a quest to nowhere. Just me,a suitcase and my car. Nothing else." He wasn't lying in that. He folded one leg and rested the cup on his trembling knee.
Jungkook was curious to know more about him." What brought you to our village? It's rather isolated and far from the big cities."
" Luck I guess. My good luck." He smiled and his entire face glowed. " I was mostly intrigued by the colourful houses. Never seen anything like it before."
" We're unique." He slightly coughed to clear his throat. He was bombing him with questions because he didn't want him to leave. Jungkook needed this moment to last for as long as possible." I'm interrogating you. I'm not usually like that." he emphasized, feeling shy and thrilled mixed together.
" I don't mind.But I'd like to know about you. From what I saw your life is much more exciting than mine."
They both broke out in laughter and Jungkook spoke first." That's an ordinary Saturday for me. Mr. Choi orders white roses every Friday for his late wife,and makes a fuss when he sees them because he tends to forget his order. He's not the same since his wife passed away. After he remembers,he apologises,sends me snacks and helps with chores." His eyes filled with hidden pain, darting between Tae and the coffee in his hands. He slowly placed the edge of the cup in his lips, sipping down a mouthful of coffee, tasting the warmth.
" Losing the one you love is enough to destroy you. A slow, painful death for those left behind. It must be hard on him."
" We're all trying to be understanding and helpful in any way we can. I forgive him each time he loses control and he helps me around the farm.Mrs Han sends him food from the hotel. Noona cleans his house.Yoongi hyung carries him home when he gets drunk at his bar.. and life goes on."
Taehyung's deep, blue ocean eyes scrutinized him,taking in every detail of his expression. Jungkook felt his piercing gaze burning him as he met him with a small smile and kindness. Tae was mesmerised. Deeply infatuated. Captivated by his sparkling, doe eyes. He was baffled.
" The farm?" That thought suddenly popped up in his head.
" I inherited the family farm from my hyung and his wife..along with my nephew. An adorable baby boy around one." He shrugged his shoulders,the weight of the loss breaking his heart.
The man's eyes bulged in shock. The loss of any family member leaves open wounds that rarely close. And if they do,scars are left to remind you of the pain." They died?"
Jungkook gulped,a deep sigh surging out of his throat." Six months ago. On their honeymoon. They went on a cruise to the Caribbean. A mechanical failure.. that's how they called it. A few survived but not my brother and his wife."
" I'm sorry Jungkook.. I don't know what else to say. It must be difficult for you to manage all this,the farm and take care of a baby."
" I cope. It's not like I have a choice. My only problem is that my babysitter is off to university and I can't find another I can trust." He was stunned by his lie. There were two trustworthy, potential candidates but he chose to lie to him which was completely opposite to his straightforward,honest character.
Tae placed the half empty cup on the desk, glancing at his watch. He had to leave unless he wanted to blow his cover. He didn't want to. He needed to stay a bit longer and admire the boy in front of him. He instantly popped up the chair,took a deep breath and timidly smiled." I have to go. I hope everything turns out as you wish."
Jungkook stood rooted to the spot. He had forgotten how to breathe and his mind was screaming gibberish. It was yelling ' Don't let him go. Don't!' He had to think fast.Noticing Tae drifting away,he said the first thing that came to mind.
"Would you like to work for me?"
The man was a statue carved in absolute silence. The words choked in his throat as he frowned. The proposal sounded absurd. He was a world famous actor,had people indulge his every wish,owned a huge villa and more houses that he could count,money to last him for three lifetimes. But above all he had to stay low,out of trouble,hide and wait for his agent to fix the problem so he'd return to his life.
This was beyond insanity.
It was ludicrous.
" If you have no place to go..or if you don't hate babies you could stay and help me with little Ha joon.. take care of him while I work.. I know you probably have other plans than babysitting.. and I can't give you much but you'll.." he laughed awkwardly because he had no idea what he was saying or why but he wanted a few more days with Tae.
Tae slowly but surely,turned around and stared at him. A million thoughts and questions needling his mind. Risks, possible outcomes, cost and the list was endless. Even so,he couldn't help but say.." Yes." He watched Jungkook smiling in relief and it made his heart leap from joy.
Jungkook set the cup on the wooden surface,stood up,went around the small desk and closed the distance between them. His heart was racing a marathon and feared Tae might hear it." I can pay you the minimum wage. I've got a spare room you can use and food is included of course." The man smelled of wild orchid and musk as it smashed his nostrils,leaving him dizzy.
" Don't need the money. Only a place to crash and food.I can handle babies and I'm good with my hands." He scratched the back of his neck."I can help around the farm." That was partly true. In his second K drama he was a single father so he spent a lot of hours with a baby. Plus he had done many jobs before entering show business in construction sites,bars, coffee shops.
You name it,he had done it.
" Deal." Jungkook, with his heart light as a feather,fetched his keys from behind the counter and signalling Tae to follow him,they stepped out of the shop." I'm gonna take you to the farm,show you around and when you settle in, you'll meet Ha Joon."
" You won't open the shop?"
Jungkook was already moving towards his mini truck." The shop opens at nine. I came early to check things and bring more flowers." he explained while resting his elbow on the hood.
" The baby? Is he with the babysitter?"
" It's her last day. And now that we have you ,I won't need to worry about him or bring him with me to the shop." He sighed a breath of relief knowing not only the baby would be safe but also he'd be able to work without distractions. The fact that he was letting a total stranger into their house because he liked him didn't cross his mind. Very irresponsible of him and Jungkook was exactly the opposite.
Tae rubbed one foot on the road making a slight screeching sound,one question badgering his mind, uncertain whether to ask him or not." Jungkook, you're bringing a stranger into your home, letting him look after your nephew. Aren't you scared I might be a criminal? Rob you and kill you in your sleep? Kidnap the baby? "He tried to look intimidating, throwing a sideways glance, lifting up an eyebrow.
Jungkook giggled and Taehyung was left at awe,admiring him." I'm not rich so I can't pay ransom. You'd be a very dumb criminal to kidnap him with no profit.I've got nothing valuable at home for you to steal and I know you. Besides, you've already saved me today. From what I see you're a kind person."
Tae bobbed his head at how gullible the boy seemed. He had no sense of danger giving shelter to a stranger who could be proven to be a serial killer. And the man was way over his head, risking everything merely to spend a few weeks with him. A boy he had met a few hours ago. He knew nothing about him and his life. Was he single? Did he have a boyfriend? Or if he was even interested in him. Tae was entering uncharted waters and was most likely gonna drown.
" You've got faith in people."
" I'd prefer to call it good judgement and intuition." He swung the door open, stepped on the rocket panel and got behind the wheel, shutting it." Follow me."
Taehyung slogged to his car,got in and stayed on his tail till they slipped away from the village through a haze of dust, heading towards the outskirts. A fifteen minutes drive as they caught sight of the farm. Moving closer,they passed the round front gate, entering a dusty pathway. He parked his car next to Jungkook's truck beside the house and got out.
The farm stretched in an expanse field under the towering mountains,the sun casting shadows on the area. A considerably big farmhouse stood proudly next to an ample,colourful garden with a patio and at the back rows of greenhouses glimmering under the bright sunlight,reflecting on the glass panes.
" Nice place you've got here."
" Don't let it fool you. It's a monster sucking on my blood." Jungkook joked,walking up the few stairs to the porch with Tae making disturbing thoughts of tongues battling,hands roaming on tender skin,heated bodies colliding." Should I give you a tour around the farm or introduce you to my little brat?"
Tae snapped back to reality, rubbed his nape, ascended the stairs,standing close enough for his musky scent to cloud Jungkook's head again."I'd rather meet my baby boss." he teased him, eyes locked at the younger's,a flirtatious smirk curling up on his lips.
Jungkook's breath was caught in his throat,fingers nervously playing with the car keys, clumsily smiling. His body felt feverish as if it was set on fire." Oh..come inside." As he opened the door and they both stepped in, Taehyung 's eyes widened, prowling around the interior. It was poles apart from what he had expected, resembling more of a luxurious mountain cabin with traditional, rustic,British cottage characteristics than an ordinary farmhouse. He let out a whistle of surprise, scanning his surroundings.
" My brother spent a lot of years in London and was fascinated by their cottage style so when he returned with my noona,he renovated it. He would have changed the exterior but the baby unexpectedly came so it was put on ice." Jungkook explained as if reading his thoughts. Most people wouldn't assume that the inside would look like it came straight out of an interior design magazine. But his late brother loved anything British.
" It certainly is unique. Nothing prepares you for what you'll see once you step in. Your brother had impeccable taste."
" He knew what he wanted. To build a family house for himself,his wife and their baby." His voice cracked with sadness,remembering the happy times before the accident and taking a long inhale,he marched into the end of a slightly narrow hallway towards a door with a 'Babyboom' hanging on it. He cautiously pushed it open, coming across a young girl, standing next to an oak wooden crib, stroking the baby's tummy.
" I'm back, Su-ho.Was he a good boy? Did he cry again?" Jungkook asked softly, walking to the crib,the girl beside him smiling and moving aside to give him room.
" He was perfect as always." the girl replied,catching a glimpse of the stranger by the door." He drank all his milk,we strolled around the garden and came back inside."
" Good..Su- ho this is Tae. Hajoon's new babysitter." Jungkook picked up the baby,held him in his arms and he pressed his head on the younger's chest with his eyes closed,not making a sound.
The girl attentively examined the man from head to toe then flashed a smile and bowed."Pleased to meet you,hyung." It crossed her mind how bizarre it looked for a stunningly handsome man like him to actually work as a babysitter. He resembled more of a supermodel but Su-ho's lips were sealed and she avoided commenting on that.
Tae choked back,anxious about her inspecting gaze, wondering if she had recognised him and was ready to blow his cover and have reporters swarming to the village,forcing him to flee. And he didn't want to. He wanted to stay here with Jungkook.
He threw a nod at her, mumbling a 'me too',his voice coming out raspier than he intended as the girl kept her ears off! God! She was giving him a headache with all the questions and giggles but he remained a perfect gentleman, replying to everything.
He was given the third degree!
Tae didn't know what she would study but he bet his ass she'd make a first class interrogator! Suspects would gladly confess rather than hear her blubbering.
Su-ho kissed the baby on the cheeks, wiping a few tears from her eyes,said goodbye and finally left. Tae could breathe freely! Mostly because she didn't seem to recognise him and he felt safe. It was time to show his abilities when it came to babies. " May I hold him?"
Jungkook flinched at the sound of his deep,hoarse voice and slowly handed him the baby,who didn't even bother opening his eyes,their fingers accidentally brushing and their intense heartbeat could be heard through the silence of the room. Resting comfortably on the man's broad chest the baby felt secure while Tae caressed his back, leaving a gentle kiss on his head. " He's a beautiful boy..like his uncle."
Jungkook's face painted crimson red,his cheeks lit with a febrile sensation and he found himself gasping for breath." I'm sure he got that from his parents."
Taehyung smirked, staring deep into his doe eyes." You don't think you're beautiful? No one has told you before?You're the most gorgeous man I've ever seen." It sounded cliche but it was true. Jungkook possessed a rare beauty, opposite of the usual standards advertised by the media nowadays.
His features were rough but combined with a calmness. Sharp jawline,honey- fair skin,eyes that drew you in like beams of sunlight. His lips carried warmth and sin. Even the small scar on his left cheek held softness.
Although his body screamed of toned muscles and sculpted lines,his narrow waist hummed with elegance. He possessed an effortless grace when he moved,fluid and delicate but without losing his muscularity.
He was merely unique in his own uncomplicated way that stimulated Tae. The actor wasn't easy to impress being in showbusiness for far too long to know that beneath the alluring beauty of the 'shining stars' laid the ugliness of an entire industry.
" I'm ordinary." Jungkook's eyes darted away from the man's penetrating gaze.
" It's almost sinful to see how gorgeous you are Jungkook.." His hand continued to massage the baby's back,feeling his calm heartbeat on his chest." You are breathlessly divine."
As the younger pretended to fold some of Hajoon's clothes,with ruby-red cheeks,the man's lips coated with a coy smile but sympathetic to his shyness he chose to change the subject." You can show me around the house and go back to work. We'll be fine, won't we champ?" He gazed at the baby in his arms with so much affection that Jungkook's heart literally melted but gathered his remaining logic and showed him the ropes.
After giving him the details of the baby's daily activities,hours of feeding and food,plus the doctor's phone number in case of an emergency,he also handed his own and kissing the baby goodbye,he departed.
" So..champ, what do you wanna do now?" Hajoon stirred in his embrace and Tae practically skimmed into the living room." How about we watch a football match? Or baseball? I know! I can teach you how to play golf like a pro! " He shook his head, smiling." Nah.. you're shorter than the iron..maybe in a couple of years." He sat on the plushy,beige couch searching around for the remote control and once he found it,he turned on the TV but strangely it wasn't working. He tried to change channels,still nothing. Who lives without watching tv?
" I guess no entertainment. It's just you and me now,champ! Make sure you're a good boy,not giving a hard time to poor,old Tae." Contrary to his previous experience with that baby on set who did nothing but cry and whine,Hajoon was a sweet angel.
His eyes drifted on his surroundings. The room was splendid, radiating comfort, snugness and elegance. The huge,stone fireplace filled the space with a sense of cosiness.
Right above the aged,wooden mantel,a dark- framed picture of a snowy landscape matched perfectly with the candle holders spread on the surface. Photos of a happy family neatly placed on the mantel. Jungkook resembled his brother..maybe he was a little more beautiful!
The couches felt like an invitation to relaxation,stuffed with dark orange pillows and a fluffy, caramel brown blanket neatly set on the side.
He could picture Jungkook in his fluffy pyjamas snuggled under a blanket,the baby nuzzled on his chest,reading him bedtime stories,the humming of the wind from outside matching the serenity of his voice. A soft smile tugged on his lips,his heart flapping against his ribs.
The heavy, patterned curtains were drawn to the side, exhibiting a magnificent view of the mountains in the distance.
He could almost imagine that warm sense of the snowy scenery in total contrast to the mellow interior on a winter night.
Resting his back on the couch,he stretched his long legs under the dark,wooden coffee table in the middle,its polished surface glowing from the sunbeams flowing inside the room
They certainly had style!
The baby warily opened his small,sleepy eyes, yawning,fingers clutching on Tae's hoodie, blinking his faint eyelashes. He didn't make a sound. He didn't cry or nag. He simply looked at him with those beautiful eyes that so much reminded him of Jungkook and flashed a smile.
Tae was over the moon." Feeling good,huh? Of course you do champ. You eat,sleep and poop all the time. No worries. No troubles." His fingers fondled his hand and his lips pecked his forehead. Ha Joon cutely giggled, still holding on the man's hoodie like he was afraid to let go.
" I believe it's time for your fruit." He slowly got up, heading for the kitchen. "Now.. let's see what we've got." He opened the fridge in search of fruit and his eyes caught a glimpse of already prepared food in glass containers.."Your uncle is one step ahead." He realised he was talking to a baby as if he was expecting a reply.
He grabbed the container,placed the content in a plate from the cabinet,got a fork suitable for babies from the counter,took a seat on the stool at the sturdy kitchen island, placed the baby in his high seat,put a silicone bib around his neck and fed him a small piece of ripe banana which he crammed down,goggling his eyes. " Hungry much?"
The baby banged his little fists on the table wanting more and finished it in no time. Tae laughed at the sight of Hajoon's lips smeared in food and getting a napkin he wiped him clean and heard him burp.
" If you enjoyed this so much ,what will happen once you taste real food? " he questioned out loud. After he picked up the empty plate and fork,he left them in the sink with the intention of washing them later along with the rest and raked through the cabinets to find some tea.
He spotted a variety of flavours, made himself a cup of mint tea and sat back on his stool, catching the aromatic taste of the mint and having a sip,warmth spreading inside him." It certainly matches the atmosphere." he exclaimed, browsing around the sophisticated atmosphere wrapped in shades of chestnut,honey and dark walnut.
From the wooden cabinets – creating a stunning contrast against the lighter, wooden background – to the small windows spread left and right that so much reminded him of his home in Daegu.
It wasn't that fancy but the feeling was the same. Surprisingly Tae felt homesick, missing his family. Mostly his parents and sister because he was with his elder brother Seokjin on a daily basis. Hajoon was blubbering baby things he couldn't get,occasionally making cute sounds and as soon as he finished his tea,he picked him up and moved him on a playmat inside the living room.
He talked with Jungkook on the phone twice, reassuring him everything was going smoothly and all smiley turned his focus on the cutie pie on the floor.
Hajoon would crawl and try to stand up but landed on his butt each time,rolling around the soft mattress, playing with his toys,biting them, throwing them at Tae to get his attention,sitting on his butt and finally forcing him to sit next to him and join his games.
It was fun. Relaxing. It took his mind off reality and his troubles back at Seoul. His phone was still switched off and despite being tempted to switch it on,he dismissed the idea. He'd have hundreds of missed calls and texts from Jimin,his family and his manager but no mood for explanations.
_____________
Back at the shop, Jungkook was unpacking the packets of flowers he had brought from the farm that morning but his mind was occupied with the handsome man he had waiting at home. Absent-minded he replaced the water from the big vases and buckets, putting some flowers inside,the rest were divided between the refrigerator and the window display to attract the customers.
People were coming and going, ordering bouquets of roses, lilies, tulips and daisies and Jungkook was creating wonderful combinations. During his small break,he called Tae twice,not only to check up on the baby but also to hear the sound of his hoarse voice that gave him chills.
At the moment he was drinking the iced americano Yoongi had brought him from his bar with the intention of giving him the third degree about the handsome newcomer. Jungkook answered casually without many details. He was well aware of Yoongi's savage character and didn't want Tae to run for his life if hyung started questioning him with that badass attitude.
He leaned back on his chair,the plastic cup squeezed between his slender fingers,as he released a heavy sigh, dipped in thoughts.
Throughout his adulthood,he had never been so fascinated by a man before. Not even during his university years in Busan when he was surrounded by beautiful boys, begging for one look,one gesture,one single date. He sighed without realizing it,blinking his eyes.
There was something different, something intriguing about this particular man. It wasn't his stunning looks or his sinfully chiseled body. His eyes captivated his soul, keeping it caged. The moment their eyes had locked Jungkook felt the power of his gaze, heard the intense drumming of his own heart,the pumping of his chest,that jingle in his tummy. He knew fighting to break free was futile.
He wasn't sure what possessed him to blur out that ridiculous proposal and ask him to stay apart from his desire to have him around a little longer.
Jungkook hadn't noticed the nervous tapping of his foot on the floor,the constant munching on his lip or the occasional sighing. Could that be love or a mere infatuation? Did he even believe in love at first sight? Perhaps it was a physical need for a real body next to him? Was it just his need to fill the void of his life? To escape harsh reality?Could it be that the relentless beating of his heart,the twisted things crossing his mind when seeing or thinking about Tae,were screaming otherwise?
He concluded that whatever it was,he wouldn't overthink or overanalyze it. He'd let himself feel and live it. More customers visited his shop and drew him out of his trance. He worked nonstop,chatted with people and Mrs Han from the hotel,who was dying to know why the stranger hadn't left their village and before closing Mr Choi came by to apologize, bringing him a bag of snacks.
Another boring,typical day of his life!
As he parked his mini truck near the house,he picked up the bag of snacks and a bouquet of wild daisies and got out. He was nervous but from excitement and his stomach was tied into a knot,biting his lower lip so hard,it began to numb. The sun,still bright and warm,felt like greeting him from above.
He slipped inside and paused only to find the duo peacefully asleep on the couch. Ha Joon was laying on top of Tae,his little hands gripping the man's T-shirt. Jungkook drooled at the older's muscled arms and broad chest. He didn't want to wake them up so he moved straight to the kitchen to heat up their lunch and put the flowers in a vase.
After he finished,he slid into his bedroom and entered his bathroom, removing his clothes and going under the shower. The warmness of the water streaming on his body was a gift from heaven,stealing the tiredness of the day. Saturdays were always busy and today the village was swamped with visitors going camping on the mountain.
When he was done,he stepped out of the shower, rubbing a towel over his drenched skin and hair,water dripping from his neck to his back. In his room he pulled his grey sweatpants and a white T-shirt out of a drawer,got dressed and barefoot wandered back into the living room.
The adorable duo was already up and Hajoon lifted his hands for Jungkook to take him. There,inside the familiar warm embrace,he giggled and babbled ' koo..koo.' and ' da-da'.
" I see you had a busy day." He tossed his head towards the mess and pile of toys on the playmat.
" He's energetic for his age. When did you come back? Why didn't you wake me up?" Tae rubbed his sleepy eyes as he stood on his feet.
" There was no need. I know first hand how tiring Hajoon can be." he replied casually,his gaze dancing across the room to hide his nervousness." Lunch is ready."
" You cooked already?" He sounded surprised, raising an eyebrow.
" Nothing fancy. It was half -prepared from last night."
" You have your hands full. The farm,the shop, managing the house and the baby."
" I've got help now. Besides, I like keeping busy." It was his stark reality. It took his mind off his loneliness and helped him cope with the tragedy of losing his family. He carried Ha Joon to the kitchen,made him sit on his high seat,and set the table with a variety of dishes. Kimchi of course,Jajangmyeon,fried egg rice,Bulgogi and Kalguksu,making Tae's mouth water.
Settling around the table,the baby, using his fingers instead of his fork, grabbed a small slice of beef and stuffed it in his mouth. Then a piece of sweet potato, munching them with his front teeth. Both men laughed watching him creating a mess and hungry after a busy day,they chowed down while shooting the breeze.
It felt homely and congenial for the two men,who had a few hours of acquaintance,to share these warm- hearted moments. Tae complimented Jungkook for his cooking skills more than he could count, cramming his delicious food like a starved person. It reminded him of his mother's and Jin's cooking. With the corner of his eyes,he was secretly observing Jungkook eating. He seemed to take great pleasure in his food, occasionally letting out small sighs, tossing his head to the left,his fluffy cheeks stuffed with food.
He was a feast for the eyes!
Ha Joon, insisted on eating with his hands,pieces of beef and potatoes falling on the table and floor,held his water bottle between his tiny fingers, gulping down the cool water, goggling his eyes. Nobody minded the mess. They found it so cute!
After finishing, Jungkook did the dishes and cleaned the kitchen whereas Tae took the baby for his nap. He ambled back to the living room where Jungkook was comfortably testing on the couch fronting the fireplace, waiting for him with two cups of steaming tea and a plate of desserts.
" No coffee?" Tae asked, taking his seat next to him and stretching his legs.
" You don't like coffee." He observed." I saw the tea cup in the sink and your funny expression while drinking coffee with me this morning."
" Busted!" Tae joked, holding the cup and taking a sip." Coffee is not exactly in my preferences."
" You should have told me when I offered you one."
" Didn't want to offend you. Besides,it's not that..bad."
Jungkook giggled cutely." You're an awful liar.I might be a 'coffeeholic' but I enjoy a cuppa,as my brother used to say,once in a while."
" A cuppa?" He lifted his eyebrow.
" It's a British thing." the younger laughed, wagging his shoulders.
" I see.." his fingers danced around the outline of his cup, suddenly feeling anxious. They were so close, practically touching each other's arms and he was struggling not to turn around and kiss him out of fear he might be mugged off or worse get slapped and be kicked out before he could blink.
Jungkook's inner thoughts resembled a knot he was toiling to untie. The contact was making him jittery, coiling his stomach with anticipation. He wanted Tae to hold him in his arms,touch him with those long,veiny hands and conquer his lips. The beating of his heart was relentless, drumming in his temples,scared out of his wits about mishandling the situation. He didn't want Tae to think that he was exploiting him as a boss.
He savoured the taste of tea, licking his lips and blowing Tae's mind. The man's sanity was hanging from a tiny thread,torn between a desire that scorched his skin and the right thing. And that would be to drink his tea,day goodnight and lock himself in his room. These feelings –powerful and disturbing – fogged his mind because they were stronger than everything he had felt and wanted in his life.
Staring at those succulent lips touching the cup,Adam's apple going up and down gulping it, his body experienced an unbearable heat and his little friend down there twitched. It was dangerous. Way too dangerous.
Jungkook threw a sideways glance at him."You're staring at me, hyung."
" Really? I hadn't noticed." He chuckled and for the first time in years his cheeks painted crimson red from embarrassment. V wasn't shy at all." Perhaps I'm appreciating the view."
" Then you're looking the wrong way." he giggled under his breath, flicking his eyes and tilting his head towards the window." The view is over there."
" Mine is here." he laughed,the cup in his hands making a pitchy sound while stirring it."More breathtaking. More bewitching and a lot more shy." The deep softness of his raspy voice could quiet a thunderstorm.
Jungkook casted his gaze around,blushing like a ripe tomato." I'm not shy.."
" You're avoiding looking at me and when you do it's only for a split second." Tae wanted more. He wanted the younger 's eyes pinned on him,to feel the warmth they carried. To be the centre of his attention as selfish as he sounded.
The younger blushed even harder. "There..Happy now?" Their eyes met and the world vanished. The beating of their hearts was the only reminder that there was life in the stillness of the room.
Tae greedily absorbed every expression, every curve of his divine face and his heartbeat seized." Thrilled! Your eyes..damn these eyes.." he leaned over,his hot breath attacking Jungkook's flashed flesh like a lava after eruption." They take my breath away. They steal my sanity." The man was bold. Unusually bold but it was beyond his willpower.
" Are you.. flirting with me,hyung?" Jungkook gulped hard,his mouth dry as the desert,his eyes glued to the older's lips.
" Would you find it inappropriate if I was?"
Jungkook's pulse roared in his ears. The words felt heavy and useless and his eyes were still engrossing all his attention. How much he wanted to feel them on his! He longed to be conquered by those twin flames,like scarlet wine, lips!
" I don't..know..I can't..think.." he weakly admitted,chest pumping up and down.
Tae didn't say anything. He simply left the cup on the table,rested his hand next to Jungkook's thigh but without touching it." You've got something here..on your lips. " Thumb reaching out,brushing the corner of Jungkook's lips, sensing his trembling under his finger and softly removed the bit of sauce, licking his thumb, the younger 's breath struggled to come out, choking a moan while observing him and stirring a heatwave between his legs.
" It's gone." Their lips a breath away but nobody was willing to interrupt the moment.
" You're very.. handsome,hyung." he sighed out,not caring how it would sound anymore,the fire inside him,urging him to say more." I've never met anyone as stunning as you."
Kim Taehyung was accustomed to compliments. He had heard them a billion times from women and men. As a self- aware gay the men he had dated in the past were prone to indulging him with fancy words and compliments that after a while sounded fake. However,the same words coming from Jungkook gained an entirely meaningful power.
His mind was working overtime trying to figure out his next move and as if he was possessed by a higher power,he blurred out his one true desire." I am dying to taste your lips Jungkook." His fingers boldly skimmed over the outline of the younger 's parted lips, giving him shivers down his spine." I understand we just met and it's too premature but you have no idea what you're doing to me." Voice mellowed,coated in burning passion.
His words wavered between them, fragile and electrifying,torching Jungkook's skin. His pulse drummed at the base of his throat when Tae's eyes trailed down to his mouth. " Tae.."
" You're safe with me. I won't hurt you." He leaned even closer,slowly to give him time to move away or push him. Jungkook didn't. Their knees touched and the heat of such a simple move pulled them in deeper till their breaths tangled.
For the weirdest,most inexplicable reason Jungkook believed him. They had just met,he hardly knew him,his previous life remained a mystery to him but somehow he trusted his words and above all his eyes. They hid so much pureness and integrity.
" Kiss me,hyung."
Tae's fingers gently held his jaw,the other hand tangled in his shiny hair as his wet tongue hauled on the velvety lips with irreconcilable yearning,leaving strings of saliva on his path. Jungkook's head reeled,a lump formed in his throat as his lips met hyung's not with hesitation but with certainty and need.
At first it was soft like a light breeze on a warm summer night but when Tae's slithered on the smooth,plushy mouth a quiet moan skimmed out, feeling like a total surrender. A welcomed submission. Jungkook felt it. He felt it spreading all over his scorching body,a shiver running from his hair down his toes.
The man's arms closed around him,lunging him forward,one hand securely enveloping his waist,the other gripping on his hair tighter this time,no air remaining between them. As the older's tongue split open his lips and plunged in the kiss turned desperate, moving with a starving need that impelled Jungkook to drape his trembling arms around his neck and deepen the kiss, matching Tae's urgent rhythm in a heated conversation of lips and tongue.
Jungkook could taste the strong scent of tea. He could feel the sharp intake of his breath. His cock twitching and panging between his thighs, his tummy twining by insatiable lust,yearning for something he knew he couldn't have..not just yet.
The man's tongue – smooth and demanding – spun inside his mouth, teeth crashing, probing the honey-sweet cavity, devouring each breath, each arousing whimper wanting more. Needing more. Expecting everything.
Tae sensed the unbearable stretching in his pants,seeking a form of release that it was too premature to ask.He was hard like never before. Just by a kiss. And he had kissed many men over the years but none of them had initiated such a mind-blowing desire.
The ploppy sound of their lips colliding,the choking moans,their tongues dancing was a storm barely contained.
Overwhelming,fierce, soul consuming. A rough longing begging for an escape. Breaking the kiss,foreheads testing together,breaths stirring to come out, heartbeats uneven, Jungkook was spellbounded, quivering,his heart was on the brink of exploding.
No kiss had blown his mind but the one he had just experienced to the deepest cores of his existence in the man's arms.
The fear was gone,only a heartening anticipation and excitement existed. One that made his blood convulse,his mind to go blank,that sweet humming in his ear as he realised he needed more.
He needed him. In his bed,under the covers,making love to him till he'd forget his own name.
" Now what?" Jungkook let the words ghost from his swollen lips.
" I want you." A statement that made the younger's heart coil in his burning chest.
" Too dangerous?" he hummed nervously.
" Maybe but tonight we've passed that." He paused." We'll take it slow. Get to know each other. Build strong foundations for whatever we're feeling." His lips tugged with a shy smile.
" What do we feel,hyung?"
" I can't name it. What I do know is how my lips beg for your kiss.. how my body trembles with need for your touch.. how my mind blocks at your sight..at these alluring eyes that strip me of will and plunge me into the unknown." Both hands cupped his face, Jungkook sensing his shaking, as he left a peck on his red lips."Never doubt how badly I want you." His eyes searched for the younger 's like he needed to drown in them. In an ocean of emotions he couldn't label.
He kept reminding himself it was too soon to feel that way. Too soon to name the emotions Jungkook's presence was causing him. But unwilling to deny them.
Jungkook melted at the power and passion of his words. The flattering in his chest was excruciatingly painful as much as delightful." I want you too. It scares me..but I'm sure you won't hurt me.." He was stunned by the response of his body. Baffled at how easy the words came out. Troubled by the power they held.
Tae helped him stand up by holding his delicate hands, absorbing the beauty and serenity of his face and led him into the corridor and outside his bedroom door. What he truly wanted was to lure him in,strip him naked,get on top of him,feel the tenderness of his flesh and sink inside the heat of his body.
He couldn't.
It wasn't the right time.
Because despite hiding his real identity out of necessity, his guilt was eating him alive. Holding secrets,fooling him, lying to him was paingul.He was dishonest to the only person who showed him kindness without asking anything in return. Perhaps later on,he would find the courage to tell him who he really was. When the possibility of losing him wouldn't be an option or a threat.
" It's hard to say goodnight.." Tae mumbled low, receiving a shaky smile from the younger.
" Then.. don't say it."
Tae's laugh was soft,his self-control hanging by a tiny thread. His right hand cupped Jungkook's cheek,fingers brushing lightly like he was holding something valuable and fragile. He scrooched down kissing him again. This time it wasn't desperate. It was mellow, promising,full of soul yearning, beyond physical need.
Jungkook's lips gladly parted at his warmth, responding with the same longing. The moment Taehyung eventually drew back,his thumb trailed his chin, unwilling to let go and walk away.
" Goodnight, Jungkook."
" Sweet dreams,hyung." he felt disappointed that he chose to leave him but happy they weren't rushing things. Deep inside he knew Tae had made the right decision.
The man involuntarily ambled to his room, strides heavy, shutting the door behind him.
Jungkook stood still, watching him vanishing behind the wooden frame,fingers sliding on his lips,a sigh fading away. For the first time in months,he didn't feel alone.
The burden of loss wasn't so unbearable. The weight of responsibilities felt lighter. Because now he had someone special to share them with.
The farmhouse was hushed.
However everything between them howled louder than ever…