Chapter Text
The last few days of the Kim's stay in Korea had passed in a blur, slipping through Jungkook's fingers like sand. He had tried—God, he had tried. There had been moments where he thought he was getting through to Taehyung, moments when the distance between them felt smaller, when Taehyung's gaze softened just enough to give him hope. But it was never quite enough.
There was still a wall between them, built from wounds that hadn't healed, words left unsaid, and fears neither of them had fully confronted. Taehyung remained guarded, uncertain, as if afraid that letting Jungkook too close would only lead to more pain. And maybe he wasn't wrong.
Jungkook still hadn't answered his question that had been lingering between them, a question that had settled in his chest like a weight he couldn't shake.
"I don't believe in hiding love from the world. If I love someone, I want to love them out loud, without shame, without hesitation. Can you do that? Can you love me exactly like that?"
Jungkook had wanted to say yes. The words had been right there on the tip of his tongue. But the truth—the ugly, suffocating truth—was that he didn't know if he could. Not because he didn't love Taehyung, but because he wasn't sure he knew how to love him in the way he deserved.
And now, time was slipping away. The day of the Kim's departure was drawing near, each hour bringing them closer to the inevitable moment when Taehyung would board a plane and put an ocean between them. The thought sent a sharp pang through Jungkook's chest, a gnawing fear that no matter how much he tried, no matter how much he wanted to bridge the distance, it might never be enough.
Because once Taehyung was gone, what would be left?
Would Jungkook still have a chance to win him back, or was he already losing him for good?
Fate, it seemed, had its own plans.
Jungkook had barely wrapped his head around trying to win Taehyung over when another twist changed everything—his family had decided to join the Kim's in the U.S. for the next few months, staying until Namjoon and Seokjin's wedding.
Soyeon had insisted they come, her invitation warm and persuasive. But what Jungkook didn't know was that the idea hadn't come from her alone.
It was Taehyung.
He had suggested it to his eomma, casually, as if it was nothing more than a passing thought. But the truth ran deeper. He hadn't been able to shake off the uneasy feeling settling in his chest at the thought of putting an ocean between him and Jungkook—especially when things between them remained unresolved.
He wouldn't admit it, not even to himself, but the idea of distance scared him more than he let on.
Jungkook still hadn't given him a real answer.
Or rather, Taehyung already knew Jungkook's answer. He just knew Jungkook hadn't figured out how to say it yet.
So, he would wait.
He had already been waiting.
But waiting felt easier when Jungkook was close, where Taehyung could see the proof of his efforts, where he could feel the shift happening between them in small, careful steps.
Soyeon, ever perceptive, had understood the true reason behind Taehyung's suggestion. But she had acted as if it was nothing more than a perfect plan, brushing aside any deeper meaning. If this was what it took to see her son happy, then so be it.
So, the Jeons were coming.
And Jungkook—though relieved—couldn't shake off the feeling that this was more than just luck.
Three more months. He had three months before Namjoon and Seokjin's wedding, and in that time, he vowed to win Taehyung's heart back. The thought of leaving things unfinished, of not being able to make Taehyung fall in love with him again, had been consuming his thoughts. But now, with this new chance, he was determined to prove to Taehyung that he could be the person he needed him to be.
It wouldn't be easy—Taehyung was stubborn, and the emotional walls he had built around himself were tall and hard to scale. Yet, Jungkook was ready to take on the challenge. He would be patient, persistent, and more honest with his feelings than ever before. He would show Taehyung that he still cared deeply, that the love they once shared was still alive in his heart.
As the plane ascended into the sky, Jungkook stared out the window, a mix of hope and determination filling him. He had time. Time to prove to Taehyung that their bond was worth fighting for. And he wouldn't stop until Taehyung remembered the love they once had—and realized that he still had the power to fall for him all over again.
The moment the plane touched down in the U.S., the excitement in the air was palpable. Jungkook had never been here before, and the possibilities seemed endless. He was thrilled not only by the idea of exploring a new place but also by the chance to finally win Taehyung's heart. He couldn't stop imagining all the things they could do together in this new setting. He was ready to show Taehyung that he still cared, no matter the distance or time that had passed.
As they exited the airport, two cars were waiting for them at the entrance, just as Taehyung had arranged. The air was filled with excitement as everyone climbed into their respective vehicles. Jungkook, especially, was bubbling with enthusiasm. This was his first time in the U.S., and everything felt like a new adventure—though his thoughts were still mostly occupied with the goal of winning Taehyung's heart.
As the cars pulled up to the Kim family home, Jungkook and Jimin were in awe. They had only ever seen the house through video calls, but now, standing before it in person, it was even more magnificent than they had imagined. The grand, elegant structure, with its blend of modern design and traditional touches, was absolutely mesmerizing.
"Wow, this place is amazing," Jungkook whispered, eyes wide with admiration.
"Yeah, it's like a dream," Jimin added, equally impressed. His eyes moved from one side of the house to the other, taking in every detail.
Hana and Hyunwoo, too, couldn't help but express their admiration for the stunning home. "It's so beautiful," Hana said softly, her voice full of awe. "You never really get the full sense of it until you see it up close."
Soyeon and Hyunseok both smiled warmly, clearly pleased by their guests' reactions. "Thank you for your kind words," Soyeon said graciously, giving them a nod. "Please, come inside. We're happy you like it."
As they entered the house, Jungkook's eyes widened, taking in the intricate decor, the beautiful furnishings, and the way the house effortlessly blended comfort with elegance. He couldn't help but glance at Taehyung, walking beside him. Taehyung noticed the awe on Jungkook's face, but quickly masked any reaction, keeping his expression neutral as he focused ahead. The brief moment of connection didn't go unnoticed by Jungkook, though, and he felt a flutter in his chest.
Jimin, catching the exchange between the two, couldn't help but smile at the sight of his brother's reaction. "You are like little kid seeing a castle for the first time," he teased with a grin.
Namjoon and Seokjin, trailing behind them, shared amused glances. "It's nice to see him so excited," Seokjin said with a chuckle. "This place really does have that effect."
Once inside, Soyeon directed everyone to the living room. "Make yourselves comfortable," she said. "The maids will bring refreshments and drinks shortly."
Everyone settled onto the plush sofas and couches, taking in the beauty of the space. Jungkook, still in awe of the house, ended up sitting beside Hana. His attention, however, kept drifting toward Taehyung, who was seated a little farther away. Taehyung seemed distant, his focus elsewhere as he pretended not to notice Jungkook's lingering glances. Despite his own feelings, he was determined not to let any affection show just yet.
The room was filled with light chatter as the maid brought out refreshments, and everyone enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. Jungkook, still feeling the weight of the house's grandeur, couldn't help but sneak another glance at Taehyung. Though his heart longed for more, he could see that Taehyung wasn't giving him the attention he had hoped for. That realization stung a little, but Jungkook remained determined. He had come all this way, and he wasn't going to let anything stop him from getting closer to Taehyung.
As everyone settled in, there was a sense of calm, but Jungkook knew that this was only the beginning. Despite the awkward distance between him and Taehyung, he could feel the potential in the air—potential for something more, something that could blossom if he was patient enough to wait for it.
After chatting for a while, Soyeon clapped her hands together, signaling the end of the gathering. She turned to the maids and instructed them to show the Jeons to their rooms. Their luggage had already been sent ahead, and each of them had been assigned separate rooms—Hana and Hyunwoo shared a guest room, Jimin had one to himself, and Jungkook was given another.
Seokjin, who usually stayed in one of the guest rooms when visiting, had willingly agreed to move in with Namjoon. After all, they were engaged now, and no one had questioned it.
As the others stood up to leave, Taehyung was about to excuse himself to his room when his mother stopped him with a sweet—too sweet—smile.
"Taehyung-ah," Soyeon called, eyes twinkling with mischief. "Why don't you show Jungkook to his room?"
Taehyung blinked.
He knew that look. That tone. That barely hidden grin.
And judging by the way the rest of the family exchanged knowing glances, they all knew exactly what Soyeon was up to.
Still, Taehyung only shrugged, keeping his expression impassive. "Sure."
Jungkook, on the other hand, was not as composed. He had already been blushing lightly from the attention, and now, with everyone looking at him, his ears turned a deeper shade of red. But when Taehyung motioned for him to follow, he quickly stood up and trailed behind.
The hallway was quiet as they walked, their footsteps muffled by the plush carpet. Taehyung walked ahead with his usual effortless confidence, while Jungkook struggled to find words.
The warmth of the evening still lingered in the air as Taehyung led Jungkook down the hallway, their steps echoing in the quiet. The rest of the family had dispersed after Soyeon's not-so-subtle matchmaking attempt, leaving the two of them alone.
Jungkook was painfully aware of the way everyone had looked at them before they left—knowing smiles, hushed whispers. He had felt his face heat up under their stares, but now, with just Taehyung in front of him, a different kind of nervousness settled in.
Taehyung, as always, looked completely at ease, his posture relaxed, hands tucked in his pockets. He didn't turn around, didn't acknowledge the awkward silence that stretched between them, but Jungkook could feel it—the weight of everything left unsaid.
As they walked, Jungkook's eyes wandered. The Kim household was grand, but it was the small details that stood out to him. The framed pictures along the walls, the faint scent of lavender in the air, the way the lights were dimmed just enough to make everything feel softer, cozier.
And then, there was Taehyung.
Jungkook had spent so long chasing after him with his gaze, yet now, with Taehyung right in front of him, he hesitated.
He wanted to say something—anything—but words felt too heavy on his tongue.
Taehyung must have noticed his hesitation because, without looking back, he suddenly spoke.
"You're quiet," he remarked, his voice carrying easily through the hall.
Jungkook swallowed, feeling his throat go dry. "Uh... yeah."
A chuckle. "Not much of an answer, Jungkookie."
Jungkook sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I don't know what to say."
Taehyung finally stopped walking, turning to face him. His expression was unreadable, but there was something expectant in his gaze.
"You always know what to say," Taehyung pointed out. "At least, you used to."
Jungkook opened his mouth, then closed it.
What was he supposed to say? That he was overthinking everything? That he was scared of messing up again? That being around Taehyung made him feel like he was on the edge of something terrifying and wonderful all at once?
Instead, he exhaled and murmured, "It's different now."
Taehyung tilted his head slightly. "How?"
Jungkook hesitated before meeting his gaze. "Because now... every word feels like it matters."
Taehyung stilled for a moment. Something flickered in his eyes—something that made Jungkook's pulse quicken.
Then, in a quieter voice, Taehyung asked, "And is that a bad thing?"
Jungkook shook his head almost immediately. "No. It's just... I don't want to say the wrong thing."
Taehyung studied him for a second longer before letting out a soft laugh. "Jungkookie," he said, amusement laced in his tone. "You worry too much."
Jungkook pressed his lips together. "Maybe."
Taehyung hummed, turning back around and resuming his steps. "Come on. Your room's just ahead."
Jungkook followed, his thoughts still a mess. But as he walked beside Taehyung, something settled in his chest.
He might not have all the right words yet, but at least... he wasn't walking alone.
Taehyung stopped in front of Jungkook's room, turning to him with an easy smile. With a gentle hand, he pushed the door open and stepped aside.
"Go on in," he said, gesturing toward the room.
Jungkook stepped into the room, his eyes scanning the space that would be his for the next few months. The room was elegant yet simple, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The walls were painted a soft ivory, complementing the dark wooden floors. A large bed sat in the center, neatly made with deep navy sheets and a matching comforter. The window on the far side of the room let in a soft evening glow, the curtains slightly drawn back to reveal a glimpse of the garden outside.
A sleek wooden desk was placed beside the window, a few decorative items resting on its surface—a lamp, a small potted plant, and a neatly arranged stack of books. Across from the bed, a dark oak dresser stood, its polished surface gleaming under the soft lighting. There was a small sitting area in the corner, with a comfortable armchair and a low table, making the space feel even more inviting.
Jungkook let out a slow breath, running his fingers over the edge of the desk as he took it all in. It was perfect—comfortable but not overwhelming, personal but not suffocating. It felt... safe.
Taehyung, who had been leaning against the doorframe, watched him with quiet amusement. There was something about the way Jungkook moved—hesitant, like he was still adjusting to being here—that made Taehyung's chest tighten. He knew Jungkook had been nervous about this trip, about being here, about them.
Clearing his throat, Taehyung took a step forward. "If you need anything, just call me," he said, his voice smooth, with a hint of something unreadable.
Jungkook turned to him, eyes warm yet uncertain. "I will."
Taehyung gave him a small nod and was about to turn to leave when—
"Taehyungie."
The sound of his name, spoken so softly yet deliberately, made him freeze. He turned back, eyes locking onto Jungkook's. There was something in his expression—something hesitant yet determined.
Jungkook took a step forward, closing the distance between them. He reached out, his fingers brushing over Taehyung's hand before gently wrapping around it. His grip was firm, steady, yet filled with an underlying nervousness.
"Can we talk for a little bit?" Jungkook asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Taehyung searched his face for a moment before nodding. "Sure. What is it?"
Jungkook swallowed, his fingers unconsciously tightening around Taehyung's. He took another step forward, so close now that he could see every detail of Taehyung's face—the soft curve of his lips, the depth in his eyes, the way his expression softened despite the guarded look he always carried.
"You said you don't believe in hiding love from the world," Jungkook began, his voice slow, careful. "You asked me if I could love you without shame, without hesitation. If I could love you exactly like that."
Taehyung said nothing, simply watching him, waiting.
Jungkook inhaled deeply, gathering his courage. "I haven't answered that until now because... I wasn't sure how to tell you. I wasn't sure if I even knew how to explain it."
He exhaled shakily, his eyes searching Taehyung's.
"But the moment I realized you'd be leaving for the U.S. soon, that I wouldn't be able to see you for months... I realized the truth." His voice grew firmer now, conviction lacing his words. "So, I want to tell you my answer now."
He took a steadying breath before lifting his gaze, his grip tightening around Taehyung's.
"Will you allow me?"
Taehyung's breath hitched, his heartbeat thrumming loud in his ears. Jungkook's hand was warm around his, his grip firm yet gentle, filled with an emotion that made Taehyung's chest ache. The room felt smaller, quieter, as if the world outside had faded away, leaving just the two of them in this moment.
His lips parted slightly, but he didn't speak, just watching Jungkook intently. He had waited for this—for Jungkook to say something, to give him an answer. And now, here they were.
Taehyung nodded slowly. "Go ahead," he said, voice softer than he intended.
Jungkook swallowed, his thumb unconsciously brushing against the back of Taehyung's hand. His dark eyes held uncertainty, vulnerability, but beneath it all, there was something unwavering.
"When you asked me if I could love you without shame, without hesitation... I wanted to say yes. I really did," Jungkook admitted. "But I was scared. Scared of what it would mean, scared of how much I felt for you, scared of losing something I didn't even know I needed this much."
Taehyung felt his heart clench at Jungkook's words. He didn't move, didn't interrupt, just let Jungkook speak.
"I spent so much time thinking, questioning myself, and trying to make sense of everything. And then, when I thought you'd leave, when I thought I wouldn't have you near me for months, I realized..." Jungkook exhaled shakily, his eyes glistening under the dim lighting. "I can't bear it. I can't bear being apart from you. I don't want to spend my days wishing I had done things differently."
He stepped even closer; his voice steady despite the emotions threatening to overwhelm him.
"I want to love you, Taehyungie," he said, his words raw, unfiltered. "Not in secret, not with hesitation. I want to love you exactly the way you deserve, the way I should have from the start."
Taehyung felt his throat tighten, his fingers twitching in Jungkook's hold. He had dreamed of hearing these words, of Jungkook finally stepping forward instead of retreating. But now that the moment had come, now that Jungkook was standing in front of him, offering his heart without holding back—Taehyung felt frozen.
Jungkook searched his face, as if bracing himself for a response. "Say something," he whispered, almost pleading.
Taehyung blinked, his lips curving into a breathless smile. "You absolute fool," he murmured, voice laced with something achingly tender.
Jungkook blinked, startled. "What?"
"You think I don't already know?" Taehyung shook his head, a quiet chuckle slipping past his lips. "You think I didn't see it every time you looked at me like I was your entire world but refused to admit it?"
Jungkook's ears turned red, but he didn't look away.
Taehyung sighed, his free hand coming up to gently cup Jungkook's face, his thumb grazing his cheek. "I was just waiting, Jungkookie. Waiting for you to say it." His voice dropped to a whisper. "And you did."
Jungkook felt the breath stolen from his lungs at the soft look in Taehyung's eyes. He leaned into the touch instinctively, his lashes fluttering.
Taehyung's fingers curled against his cheek, his gaze flickering over Jungkook's face as if memorizing every inch of him.
"Now," Taehyung murmured, his lips barely a breath away from Jungkook's, "what are you going to do about it?"
Jungkook's breath hitched, his heart pounding so loudly he was sure Taehyung could hear it. Taehyung's words, his touch, the teasing yet tender way he looked at him—it was too much, and yet not enough.
He swallowed, his hand still gripping Taehyung's. "What do you mean?" he asked, voice barely above a whisper.
Taehyung tilted his head, his eyes glinting with something playful yet serious. "You finally said it, Jungkook. You finally admitted that you will love me just the way I want." His fingers traced lightly along Jungkook's cheek. "But love isn't just words. It's action."
Jungkook felt something shift inside him—nervousness, excitement, a rush of emotions that made him dizzy.
"So, I'll ask again," Taehyung continued, his voice softer now, almost a challenge. "What are you going to do about it?"
Jungkook's fingers twitched before they curled around Taehyung's hands more firmly. He knew the answer. He had known it from the moment Taehyung had turned to leave his room, and he had stopped him.
"I'll prove it to you," Jungkook said, determination seeping into his voice. His fingers moved to intertwine with Taehyung's. "Every single day. I won't hide, I won't hesitate, and I won't let fear stop me again."
Taehyung's breath caught, his heart skipping at the sincerity in Jungkook's gaze.
"Then show me," Taehyung murmured, his lips quirking into a small smile. "Don't just say it. Show me that you mean it."
Jungkook took a deep breath, steadying himself. And then, before he could overthink, he took a step closer—so close that their bodies nearly touched. He had to tilt his head up slightly, just a little, to meet Taehyung's eyes properly.
For a second, Taehyung thought Jungkook might hesitate, might pull away like he always did. But this time, he didn't.
Jungkook's hand lifted, resting lightly on Taehyung's shoulder for balance. And then, he leaned in.
Soft. Warm. The gentle press of Jungkook's lips against Taehyung's was slow, deliberate—no rush, no desperation, just quiet certainty. A shiver ran down Taehyung's spine as he felt the warmth of Jungkook's breath against his skin, the subtle tremble in his touch.
And just as Jungkook began to pull away, Taehyung's hands found his waist, gripping firmly, keeping him close.
Before Jungkook could react, Taehyung kissed him back.
This time, it was deeper—still gentle, still slow, but with an intensity that sent a thrill through Jungkook's body. Taehyung's lips moved against his with purpose, as if committing the moment to memory. Jungkook let out a soft, surprised noise before melting into it, his hands instinctively gripping Taehyung's shoulders.
The kiss wasn't hurried, wasn't desperate—but it held weight, held emotions neither of them dared to put into words. Taehyung tilted his head, deepening it slightly, and Jungkook sighed against his lips, gripping him just a little tighter.
When they finally parted, Jungkook was breathless, his cheeks flushed, his lips tingling. But his gaze remained steady, unwavering, filled with silent promises.
"I'll keep proving it, Taehyungie," he whispered, his voice steady despite the rapid beat of his heart. "Just wait and see."
Taehyung blinked, momentarily speechless, his thumb brushing lightly against Jungkook's side where his hands still rested. His lips still tingled from the kiss, warmth spreading down to his chest.
Then, he let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head. "You really are something else, Jeon Jungkook."
Jungkook grinned, his dimple making a rare appearance. "I'll take that as a good thing."
Taehyung hummed, tilting his head. "You should."
For the first time in a long while, the weight between them felt lighter. There were still things left unspoken, wounds yet to heal, but in this moment, with Jungkook looking at him like that—with so much love, so much certainty—Taehyung let himself believe.
Maybe, just maybe, this time, they would get it right.
Taehyung exhaled slowly, feeling the warmth of Jungkook's gaze linger even after their kiss had ended. He could still feel the ghost of Jungkook's lips on his, the weight of the promise in his words. A part of him wanted to challenge Jungkook further, to test if his resolve would waver. But another part—one that had waited far too long for this moment—wanted to believe in him, to believe that Jungkook would follow through.
Jungkook didn't move away, still close enough that Taehyung could see every detail of his face—the way his dark lashes framed his eyes, the softness of his skin, the way his lips parted slightly as if caught between words. His hand remained on Taehyung's shoulder, hesitant but unwilling to let go.
He ran his thumb over the fabric of Jungkook's shirt, his touch light, grounding. "You're really set on this, huh?"
Jungkook nodded, his grip tightening on Taehyung's shoulders. "I am." His voice was steady, but his eyes—his eyes were filled with something raw, something pleading. "I know I messed up before, and I know I don't deserve to ask for another chance. But I—" He swallowed hard, gaze never leaving Taehyung's. "I just need you to know that I mean it this time."
Taehyung studied him, his heartbeat steady but strong. The sincerity in Jungkook's voice, the way he was holding on as if afraid Taehyung might slip through his fingers again—it made something inside Taehyung ache.
"You don't need to convince me, Jungkookie." His voice was soft, but firm. "I already know."
Jungkook blinked, his lips parting slightly. "...You do?"
Taehyung hummed, his gaze never wavering. "You think I can't tell the difference between the Jungkook who was too afraid to love me and the Jungkook standing in front of me now?" He tilted his head, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "You're so obvious."
Jungkook let out a short laugh, slightly breathless. "I—I didn't mean to be."
Taehyung smiled, his fingers grazing Jungkook's jaw. "You've always been easy to read." His touch lingered before he finally let his hands drop to his sides.
"Alright then," he murmured. "Let's see how well you keep your word."
Jungkook straightened, determination flickering in his eyes. "I will."
Taehyung gave him one last lingering look before stepping back. "Get some rest, Jungkookie," he said, voice softer now. "It's been a long day."
Jungkook hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Goodnight, Taehyungie."
Taehyung turned toward the door but paused when he reached the frame, glancing back over his shoulder. "Goodnight, Jungkookie."
And then, with a small, knowing smile, he slipped out, leaving Jungkook standing in the middle of his room, heart still racing, fingers still tingling.
Jungkook exhaled, running a hand through his hair before collapsing onto the bed. His lips curled into a small smile, a sense of quiet relief settling over him. This wasn't the end of their story—not even close.
But tonight, for the first time in a long while, he felt like they were finally on the right path.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨