Chapter Text
“... the welcome of Kim Namjoon as the CFO for the American branch. Friday afternoon, you have a keynote address at the New York Tech Expo. Your speech is loaded onto the tablet, but I recommend a final review—”
“What about Hyunjin?” Seokjin asks, turning away from the window to face Hoseok.
“He’s in Paris this week, sir, as I was saying…”
Seokjin hums, crossing one knee over the other. He’s only half listening to what the other man is saying.
“... On Saturday you have dinner with the regional manager, Ms. Sanders. She's requested a private room in Le Bernadin. Exquisite french food, formal attire mandatory. I already scheduled a fitting with Taehyung for a new suit…”
“Is Soobin available?”
“No, Mr. Kim,” Hoseok puts down the tablet, annoyed. “I tried to get some of your usual acquaintances for this week but no one was available.”
“I don’t like doing these trips alone,” Seokjin grumbles, sinking into his plane seat.
Hoseok sighs but doesn’t say anything, getting up and walking towards one of the stewardesses.
Seokjin taps the armchair, watching the flight crew get ready for take-off, silently still going through his list of… friends. He gets bored easily, and when he’s bored he gets snarky, his patience reduced significantly. Having pretty little things to keep him entertained while he’s away is the best remedy. Honestly, he gets lenient after a couple of orgasms, he’s practically doing the Americans a favor.
“Sir, the flight crew is ready,” Hoseok says when he walks back.
Seokjin turns around and sees them standing in a neat little line, bowing 90 degrees, and he tilts his head back at them. Mr. Sun, the pilot, starts talking, his usual security speech, before he goes into what an honor it is for his crew to fly with him. But Seokjin’s eyes go to a face he doesn’t recognize. It’s not his usual on-flight chef. He looks young, a little fidgety, eyes downcast and hands politely held in front of himself. The boy must feel Seokjin’s eyes on him because he lifts his face and Seokjin sees his cheeks tint pink, big eyes widening even more before he looks down again. Cute .
“Thank you, Mr. Sun, it’s always a pleasure to fly with you.” Seokjin smiles, candid, as he dismisses them and follows the boy until the crew disperses.
“Who’s the new kid?” Seokjin asks Hoseok when they are in the air.
“Jeon Jungkook,” his assistant answers, “23 years old, chef from Busan. Min Yoongi recommended him.”
Seokjin hums. Busan. Adorable.
“Did you talk to Jimin?”
“Yes, sir. Your usual suit is ready at the hotel.”
“I want some flowers when I get there…”
“Flowers, sir?”
“On the bed, the floor. That romantic shit. Champagne and… maybe chocolate covered strawberries?”
“Are you expecting someone, sir? Do I need to make arrangements?”
Seokjin waves him off.
“Get some clothes in Mr. Jeon’s size, suits, casual wear. Book a haircut too..” Seokjin yawns, lying back in his seat and getting ready for a nap. “Something that will look good on my arm.”
“I— yes sir.”
“Wake me up when the food comes,” Seokjin instructs. “And move to the other side of the plane, please.”
There’s a pause and Seokjin can practically feel Hoseok judging him in silence. “Yes, sir.”
Hoseok wakes him up a couple of hours later before moving to another set of seats, like Seokjin requested. Seokjin yawns and goes to the bathroom to relieve his bladder and wash the sleep off his face. When he exits he catches a glimpse of the chef, frowning in concentration as he plates the food.
When he goes back he sits in the secluded back lounge and scrolls through his phone until the food arrives.
“I hope you enjoy the food, sir,” the boy says, bowing deeply.
“I will eat well,” Seokjin says, distractedly looking at the scuffed leather of the shoes the boy is wearing. “Come sit with me,” Seokjin makes eye contact with the little chef and sees surprise flash in his eyes. “Close the door.”
Jungkook goes easily, like he’s used to following instructions. Seokjin likes the way the white shirt stretches across his back and the round shape of his ass in his dress pants. Jungkook returns to the table and stands awkwardly.
“Have a seat,” Seokjin insists, pointing to the booth in front of him. Jungkook complies and his eyes dart around nervously.
“I don’t know if this is appropriate, sir.”
“Who is paying for your services?” Seokjin takes a sip of his wine, looking at the little chef over the rim of his glass.
“You are, sir.”
“Doesn’t that mean you’ll do whatever I want?” he asks with a teasing smile. Jungkook blinks a few times, a small frown appearing on his forehead.
“You mean within my job description, right sir?”
Seokjin's smile widens slightly.
“Of course, Jungkook-ssi, what else could I be talking about?”
Jungkook blushes, eyes dropping to the table, and Seokjin thinks the tint on his cheeks is delightful.
“Tell me about the food,” he asks, picking up his chopsticks.
“Yes, sir,” Jungkook nods. “It’s a salmon filet with gochujang glaze, and assorted Asian vegetables…” Jungkook goes on, talking about the cooking process and how the flavors work together, especially catered to Seokjin’s taste. He’s very enthusiastic about it and the tension slowly melts off his body the more Seokjin engages with him.
“Did you always want to be a chef?” He picks up some salmon with his chopsticks, enjoying how it practically dissolves in his mouth. The kid is good .
“Yes, sir,” Jungkook smiles shyly, looking down at his hands. “I used to cook all the time with my grandmother. She passed away when I was 16 and cooking is my way to connect with her.”
“That’s very sweet, Jungkook-ssi, and you’re very good. Yoongi has a great eye.”
“Yoongi sunbaenim has been very good to me,” Jungkook nods, “he even let me sleep in his guest bedroom while I got on my feet when I first came to Seoul. He’s an amazing mentor.”
Seokjin hums.
“When you first came to Seoul, you said?” He picks up his wine glass, taking a sip to give Jungkook more time to talk.
“Yes, I was born in Busan but in high school I moved to Daegu to take care of my grandma, that’s where I met sunbaenim. He’s been taking care of me ever since.”
“What about your parents, Jungkook-ssi? Don’t they take care of you?”
“I don’t want to be a burden to them,” Jungkook shakes his head, “they already have their hands full with my siblings.”
Hook , Seokjin thinks. Trying not to smirk.
“That’s very noble of you, Jungkook-ssi.”
Jungkook meets Seokjin’s eyes, and his cheeks tint that reddish hue that Seokjin wants to taste.
“I’m sorry if I’m yapping, sir, I talk a lot when I’m nervous.” He chuckles, hand coming up to scratch at his nose awkwardly.
“I’m enjoying your company,” Seokjin tilts his head to the side, “I like looking at something pretty while I eat.”
Jungkook's eyes widen in surprise and his cheeks tint darker.
“I should go back,” Jungkook looks at the closed door of the lounge but makes no move to leave.
“I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable. I meant it as a compliment.”
“No, no,” Jungkook shakes his head vigorously. “I’m just awkward, sir.”
Seokjin chuckles.
“You’re adorable.”
Jungkook blushes deeper, lifting his hands and Seokjin finds it amusing that, of everything else, he decides to cover his ears, shying away from the compliment.
“I— thank you, sir.”
“What do you like to do in your free time, Jungkook-ssi?”
Seokjin keeps the conversation going, asking Jungkook more questions and even telling little anecdotes of his own. When Seokjin finishes his wine, Jungkook gets up and refills his glass without being prompted.
“Would you like some dessert, sir?” Jungkook asks while clearing the table.
“Only if you share with me.”
Jungkook stands up, innocent wide eyes finding Seokjin’s face.
“I don’t think that’s very professional, sir.”
Seokjin leans forward. “Jungkook-ssi. Is keeping me company too much to ask?”
“No, sir. I’m sorry,” he bows, again, and Seokjin is momentarily worried that he will drop the porcelain on his tray, but everything stays in place.
“No worries,” Seokjin leans back, waving him off, “Just bring enough to share.”
Jungkook nods, bowing once more before hurriedly leaving the lounge.
Seokjin sighs, closing his eyes for a second. The chase is fun, but he can’t wait for his reward. Jungkook returns a few minutes later with two sets of glass jars and dessert spoons . Not exactly what Seokjin had in mind, but it’ll do for now.
“It’s a yuzu and white chocolate panna cotta,” Jungkook explains, smiling proudly as he sets down two individual jars. Jungkook talks about the soft taste of the white chocolate and the citrus notes of the yuzu, how the crumble of matcha adds texture and balances out the sweetness. “The yuzu caramel is handmade and the raspberries are organically sourced for better quality.”
When he finishes, he smiles, pleased with himself. Seokjin picks up a spoon and tries the soft, fluffy dessert, Jungkook’s eyes following his every movement. It’s just as good as the main dish and Seokjin hums, closing his eyes to enjoy the different flavors better.
“It’s very good, Jungkook-ssi,” he smiles and the little chef beams at him. “Have some.”
“Yes, sir,” Jungkook nods and Seokjin watches him eat, pretty plump lips wrapping around the silver spoon. They eat quietly for a while and Seokjin discreetly gets a kick out of the way Jungkook tries not to squirm the more the silence extends between them. His eyes dart around nervously and he blushes deeper and deeper every time their eyes meet.
“Did you always want to be a private chef, Jungkook-ssi?” Seokjin asks when the younger man looks close to vibrating out of his body. He can’t imagine a chef’s dream being serving rich cunts.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity, sir,” Jungkook bows again, his forehead almost hitting the table. So polite. “Is not every day that I get to not only travel the world but to cook for such a prestigious client.”
Seokjin snorts a very loud, unflattering laugh that startles Jungkook.
“That’s a very PR answer, chef Jeon.” Seokjin chuckles, composing himself. He leans forward, “but I want to know the truth.” Jungkook bites his lip, hesitance evident in the crease of his brow. Seokjin leans forward a bit more and motions Jungkook to do the same. “I promise you won’t get in trouble,” he whispers. “What’s your dream, little chef?”
“I—” Jungkook licks his lips, leaning in even closer, “I want to open my own Korean-Latin fusion restaurant.” He’s bashful about it, looking down while he plays with his fingers, like the idea of opening his own little restaurant is ludicrous.
“Latin America has some incredible flavors, I bet you’ll do amazing.” Seokjin whispers, not moving away.
“You think so?” Jungkook’s smile is blindingly bright.
“Of course.”
“Thank you, sir,” Jungkook bows, again, and when he sits up he looks bashful, running a hand through his hair. “You’re the first person I’ve ever told about this.” He chuckles.
Line.
Seokjin arches his eyebrows in surprise.
“Is that so?” Jungkook nods. “Why?”
“I don’t know, actually,” Jungkook rubs the back of his neck, wincing slightly, “you seem like a kind person.”
“Well, I try to be.” Not as hard as he should, admittedly, but he’s not a monster.
Suddenly Jungkook seems to remember himself and picks up the empty dessert jars and offers Seokjin more wine.
“No, thank you. I do feel like drinking coffee.”
“Of course.” Jungkook nods, bowing for the nth time. Doesn’t his back hurt?
Seokjin entertains himself watching Jungkook walk away. He has a great ass. The chef stops briefly to talk to Hoseok before disappearing into the small kitchen. Seokjin meets his assistant’s disapproving gaze and wiggles his fingers at him in greeting. Hoseok sighs, rolling his eyes before returning to whatever he’s doing on his laptop. Seokjin chuckles.
Jungkook returns a little later with a tall glass of iced coffee. Jungkook stands by the table, hands clasped in front of himself until Seokjin gives him permission to sit down.
“So, I was thinking,” Seokjin starts, tapping his chin, “I know some people back home that could be interested in investing in your little project.”
“W-what?” Junkook stutters, looking at Seokjin with eyes almost bulging out of his head.
“I could give you a hand,” Seokjin continues, “I could even invest myself if you have a good concept for it. Have you worked on your menu?”
“I—uhm,” Jungkook coughs, swallows and Seokjin tries to not stare at the bobbing of his Adam's apple. “I’ve been working on this kimchi-marinated ceviche dish.”
“That sounds delicious.”
The way Jungkook perks up reminds Seokjin of a puppy.
“It is,” he nods, “ I think the bold, fermented taste of kimchi adds a lot of depth to the fresh, citrusy profile of traditional ceviche...” Jungkook motions with his hands while speaking, enthusiastically explaining the dish to Seokjin. “It's a perfect balance of contrasting textures and flavors that creates a truly memorable dish.” He smiles but seems to remember himself and blushes profusely, looking down at his hands. “I’m sorry, sir. I shouldn’t speak so much.”
“I think it’s cute,” Seokjin says before he can catch himself and Jungkook squirms in his seat. “There’s nothing wrong with having dreams and being excited about them, especially if you meet someone that wants to help you make those dreams come true.” Seokjin takes a sip of his coffee, perfectly made, looking at Jungkook over the top of his glass.
“Why, though?” Jungkook glances at Seokjin through his lashes, unknowingly making himself look coy and enticing. Seokjin has his work cut out for him. “I don’t mean to be rude, sir, but why would you want to help me?”
“Many reasons,” Seokjin waves, like he’s trying to swat Jungkook’s doubts away. “It’s just money, Jungkook-ssi, it’s not a big deal.” But it is, Seokjin knows it is for people like Jungkook, with their sad life stories and well-worn dress shoes. “I like lending a hand to people that deserve it.”
Jungkook drops his gaze, shaking his head with a small frown.
“I don’t know if I deserve it, sir.” Jungkook looks at him again. “I wouldn’t feel comfortable just letting you help me. I don’t want to take advantage of your kindness.”
Seokjin pretends to think over Jungkook's words, fiddling with the straw of his coffee and looking out the window. Then he gasps, and turns to Jungkook again, smiling like he just had an epiphany.
“I have an idea,” he whispers conspiratorially, leaning in. Jungkook mimics him instinctively. “Stay with me in New York, keep me company for a week and we can consider it an equal exchange.”
Jungkook pulls back, his face hardening.
“I’m sorry, sir, but I can’t do that.” His lips are a tight line, his brow furrowed.
Seokjin cocks his head to the side, pretending not to notice Jungkook’s reaction. “Why not?”
“I don’t want to be one of those people.” Jungkook is firm about it, his knuckles white with how hard he’s squeezing his own hands. Seokjin is sure that if it weren’t for the plane engines he could hear how fast Jungkook’s heart is beating.
“What kind of people, darling?” Seokjin plays into the confusion, frowning a little and slips the term of endearment for good measure.
Jungkook seems to struggle with his words for a second. He ends up saying, “I don’t want to just sleep my way to the top.”
Sekjon pulls back, he doesn’t gasp, that would be too much, but he lets his face morph into surprise. “You won’t,” he shakes his head, maintaining eye contact. “God, who said anything about sleeping?”
Jungkook regards him quietly. Seokjin can see the struggle behind his big, brown eyes. “Really?” Jungkook asks, still frowning with distrust.
“I mean it.” Seokjin nods. “You would come as part of my team. My personal cook on land too. And maybe when you’re free you could come as my plus one to a couple of functions.”
“What functions?”
“Just silly work stuff, don’t worry about it. I just need someone to prevent those sleazy businessmen from offering me their sons and daughters like they are treats or something.” Seokjin rolls his eyes and sees the corners of Jungkook’s lips quirk into a barely there smile.
“What would I have to do in those, uhm… functions?” Jungkook asks, his pretty blush returning to his cheeks.
“I just want you to look pretty by my side, keep me company,” Seokjin explains, shrugging like that’s an everyday thing to ask. Jungkook bites his lip. “Of course your time will be paid at a more than adequate rate. If I'm happy with your performance I could put you in contact with a few people that would be very beneficial for your project.”
Jungkook stays silent, looking everywhere but at Seokjin.
“I don’t know…”
Seokjin contemplates if he should keep pressuring or let it rest. In the end he nods, smiling.
“It’s okay. No pressure.” He takes a sip of his coffee to make time. “But I do need an answer by the time we arrive in the US,” he says, looking at his watch. “So that gives you, roughly, 7 hours to think about it.” Seokjin winks.
“Thank you, sir.”
“Now, I won’t pester you anymore,” Seokjin chuckles, “I’ll let you get back to your work. Could you please hand me my tablet?” He points to the discarded object on his previous seat. Jungkook retrieves it and hands it over. “Thank you, Jungkook-ssi.”
Jungkook bows, takes the empty glass from the table and leaves, closing the door behind himself.
Seokjin looks at the closed door for a while before he gets to work, going over the schedule he only half listened to when Hoseok explained. His assistant shows up a few hours later and they go over Seokjin’s presentation for the expo. At one point there’s a quiet knock on the door, and when Seokjin gives permission, his little chef comes in. He places another perfectly plated meal on the table and Seokjin thanks him with a smile. When Jungkook bows before disappearing, even his ears look red.
“He’s cute, isn’t he?” Seokjin can’t help but ask when Jungkook retrieves the empty plates of their dessert.
“He certainly fits into your usual style of companions, sir.”
Seokjin snorts. “It’s fascinating how careful you are with your words, Hoseok.”
“Someone has to be,” the assistant whispers to himself and Seokjin chuckles.
“Did you book his appointments?”
“Yes, sir,” Hoseok taps his tablet a few times before showing Seokjin his calendar app. “He’s scheduled for tomorrow, I made sure to align his suit fitting with yours,” Seokjin nods, nice. “But he's going to have to go shopping for casual wear and have his haircut appointment by himself.”
“You go with him,” Seokjin says.
“But—”
“I’m not asking, Hoseok.”
There’s a pause. “Yes, sir.” Hoseok focuses on his device for a few minutes. “Are you sure you want him to tag along, sir?” he asks after a few minutes of silence, “I don’t think it’s a good show of character to agree so easily…”
“He hasn’t agreed yet,” Seokjin yawns, “but he will.”
“Are you sure, sir?”
“Yes,” he looks down at his watch, “he has dreams.”
Hoseok looks at him with a frown and Seokjin almost laughs. Of course he wouldn’t understand, Hoseok has dreams too. That’s why he has worked for Seokjin for as long as he has.
“I’m going to use the restroom.” He gets up before the assistant can ask more questions and goes to the private bathroom. He relieves himself, brushes his teeth and even washes his face and hands. When he’s ready, he returns to the main sitting area and finds Jungkook stashing silverware away. He looks up at Seokjin with a deer in the headlights look. Seokjin smiles.
“Hello, Jungkook-ssi,” he bows, head only, and begins to make his way to the back lounge.
“Wait, sir,” Jungkook rushes towards him. “I thought about your offer.”
Seokjin hums, nodding. Jungkook bites his lip and Seokjin can't wait to be able to do that himself.
“I’d like to work for you during the New York trip.”
And sinker , Seokjin smiles.