⊹⊱≼2.9K WORDS≽⊰⊹
⊹⊱≼©ZABISHA≽⊰⊹
⊹⊱≼OCT-2022≽⊰⊹
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Taehyung woke up with a heaving sigh and forehead wrinkles from stress. His blissful rest was disturbed when the alarm's piercing sound filled the room. He reached out and slid his fingers across the tabletop in a drowsy attempt to find the alarm and stop it from ringing continuously.

Taehyung again gave in to the lull of sleep, wanting a few more minutes of sleep. This time, though, it was only a light sleep, and he was still somewhat awake.

Another alarm from his phone woke him up ten minutes later. After immediately reaching for the gadget and pressing the screen to silence the alarm, he mumbled a small curse beneath his breath.

Taehyung sat at the edge of his bed, gathering himself and rubbing his forehead to relieve the headache that had begun to grow.

He proceeded to the bathroom to finish his morning ritual, despite his exhaustion and lingering tiredness. His senses were jolted, and his thoughts were uncluttered when the cool water splashed on his face. He meticulously washed his teeth, his movements becoming second nature due to years of repetition.

Taehyung came back to his room and went inside the large walk-in wardrobe. His clothes were neatly arranged, with each item in its proper location.

He reached for a well-tailored suit, whose material was soft to the touch. He chose a tie from the collection that perfectly matched the colour and design of the suit.

He finished off his look with a pair of stylish shoes from a tiny, specialised shoe wardrobe while accessorising his wrist with a sleek watch from his collection.

In a short while, Taehyung stood at attention, looking perfect and exuding confidence. Each step he took descending the stairs of his opulent mansion was deliberate and calculated.

His senses were enticed as he descended the stairs by the aroma of freshly prepared coffee. Taehyung grinned as he entered the sleek, contemporary kitchen to see his parents waiting for him.

He took a few steps and side hugged his father and then his mother, saying, "Morning, babies."

In unison, Taehyung's parents said, "Good morning, babybear."

Taehyung grinned, sat down, and let out "yoona," to which a young woman approached him.

Yoona, the mansion's chief chef, greeted him, "Good morning, sir."

His parents had already been served, and the dining table was piled high with fruits, juice cups, breads, butter, cookies, and pancakes as he nodded to her.

"What can I get for you, sir?" It was her.

"Bring me a cup of coffee; I'm fine with bread and butter."

She nodded and left.

Mr. and Mrs. Kim exchanged worried looks. Taehyung undoubtedly lost weight; he didn't appear to be in good health at all. They knew their son had stopped looking for himself, was eating poor breakfasts, missing dinners, and drinking too much. His regular schedule consists of working all day and then drinking all night.

For a few weeks, his unhealthy lifestyle alarmed Mr. and Mrs. Kim. They were silently praying that their son would accept their request.

"Are you two going somewhere?" Given that they had distinct waking and sleeping schedules, it was unusual for them to eat together.

"No." With a smile, Mrs. Kim added, "We thought it'd been too long since we had dinner together." and her anxiety wasn't unnoticed by her son.

Taehyung said, "Thank you," and waited for his parents to voice their problems.

Mrs. Kim looked at Mr. Kim and motioned for him to speak to their son. Mr. Kim sipped the liquid once more while nodding and tensing up.

"Please let me know if there are any issues." While spreading butter on the bread, Taehyung uttered the words.

Taehyung took a bite. "You are well aware of the fact that I dislike seeing both of you anxious and disturbed." He spoke, preparing himself to face complaints like: Don't frequent the club frequently. Eat healthily, get home early, and look out for yourself.

As his words weighed heavily on his tongue, Mr. Kim cleared his throat. He said, his voice full of affection and worry, "Tae, we've observed that you haven't been taking care of yourself recently. I'm worried about you, as is your mother."

Taehyung looked down at his lap while fumbling with the tablecloth's edge with his fingers. He understood that his parents' concerns were valid and that he had caused himself to descend into an unhealthy way of life. However, he found it challenging to face the consequences of his choices.

Mrs. Kim extended her hand, placing a consoling touch on her son's with it. "We've seen that you've been working long hours and that your nights are spent drinking excessively.___ It's not the life we want for you, Tae. We want you to be happy and healthy."

Taehyung felt a pang of guilt and gratitude in his heart. Although he had always known that his parents were concerned about him, seeing the anxiety written across their faces let him understand the extent of their devotion.

Taehyung stuttered, "I'm sorry," with his voice barely audible. "I-I didn't mean to worry you."

Mr. Kim positioned his hand on top of Taehyung's as he reached across the table. "Tae, we understand you didn't mean to. But now is the moment for a change," he declared forcefully, his voice full of resolve.

With unshed tears glistening in her eyes, Mrs. Kim nodded in accord. "We want you to put your physical and mental health first." She urged, her voice tender, "Take a break, eat appropriate meals, and find time for yourself." her voice filled with maternal affection.

Yoona came, and sensing the atmosphere, she placed the cup and quickly left.

Since Taehyung didn't react, Mr. Kim thought to talk about the proposal. "It is our duty as your parents to help you. Take action that is best for you."

Taehyung continued to look below. He would take good care of himself from now on; he could do it.

While Mr. Kim became more restless as he was worried about Taehyung's response.

"Tae," Mr. Kim mumbled, and he paused for a few moments. "We've made a decision for you. We sincerely hope that you will understand us and accept it."

Taehyung raised his head and looked at his father. At this point, he realised that his parents had truly made a serious decision.

"What has been decided?" Knowing what it might be, he questioned

Some business arrangements weren't completed by him. He felt that he didn't carry out his duties correctly. Nothing would be wrong if his father dismissed him from his CEO role. He won't raise any objections to his decision.
 

"You're aware of Mr. Jeon, right?" Mr. Kim let out

He received a nod from his son, assuring him of his attention. Mr. Kim cautiously continued, "He has a lovely son who is very much liked by me and your mother."

Taehyung sighed and turned his head to the side. He sensed how those things would turn out. He already knew that he was going to reject their decision.

"He's Jeon Jungkook. who we want to marry you with." Mr. Kim breathed. Ohmygod, I'm done.

"I'm not ready." Taehyung replied quickly and without any second thought.

"Tae, he's a good boy and--" Mr. Kim was cut off by his son.

"It's obvious, dad; he must be a good boy if you choose him. but I'm not ready." Taehyung sounded a little irate.

"Baby, it's for your--"

"No means no, mom." He also interrupted his mom with a stern voice.

How could he allow someone into his life? While his life was messy. He was horribly entangled in the grief of the breakup that happened a month ago. Marriage was the last thing he wanted.

That youngster was not at fault for whatever occurred to him. So why would the youngster suffer alongside him? This would be so unfair to him. He was a good person, but that didn't mean Taehyung would use him to better his own life. It would be pure selfishness, and he didn't want to be selfish.

They realised from his gloomy expression that he was unwilling to discuss this. But they were his parents after all; how could they readily give up when everything was for their son's good?

Taehyung was about to leave after eating half-bread but Mr. Kim stopped him. "Fine, don't marry him.___ Simply take a seat and eat your breakfast properly."

Taehyung continued to eat after sitting back.

"Son." Mr. Kim murmured gently.

Taehyung took a bite and gave his father a very serious look. Mr. Kim proceeded since it appeared that his son was prepared to listen.

"Mr. Jeon and I have been friends for a long time. His son is very precious to him. I've already talked with them. It's not okay to refuse now," Mr. Kim said, taking a breath. "I am merely urging you to meet him once. I don't want to upset my friend further."

He received no response as Taehyung continued to sip his coffee while entirely ignoring his father.

"Please, Tae." Mr. Kim sighed helplessly.

Taehyung felt bad for making his parents worried, and he didn't want his father to apologise to his friend.

"Where do I have to go to meet him?" Taehyung asked while sipping coffee.

Mr. and Mrs. Kim were overjoyed.

"Wait a minute," Mr. Kim said, grabbing his phone. He used it briefly at first.

"Check, I sent his number and picture. His name is Jeon Jungkook." Mr. Kim told his son.

Taehyung's phone was examined. There was one photo of a boy with two eyes, one nose, etc., and a number, which he saved with the name: Jeon Jungkook. He put the phone back in his pocket and turned to face his father to get further instructions.

"Text him and take him out for dinner," Mr. Kim said.

Taehyung nodded in complete disinterest.

"He is younger than you, Tae; therefore, treat him with extra care." Mr. Kim added. He wasn't sure why he was telling his son all of this. Being a gentleman, his son didn't require instructions.

"There won't be any complaints, dad," Taehyung assured confidently, as he has trust in his personality.

"I'm now heading to work. bye, mom. bye, dad." With that, he left.

Mr. and Mrs. Kim exchanged smiles with one another. wishing for a favourable outcome.

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In front of the gas stove, a man with captivating beauty stood, the flames flickering and creating a golden glow on his honey-toned skin.

He moved fluidly, showing his skill as a cook, with one hand on the pan and the other holding a spoon. His customary shine was dulled, though, by the tiredness that was etched on his face.

His movements froze as two little hands encircled him from behind. When he felt the contact, he sighed in exhaustion. "Doll, stop it," his voice dripping with weariness.

But the hands persisted in their position, circling his body, and soon tender lips touched his nape.

Jimin had a sly grin on his face as he was aware of the impact he had on the man. To remove the grey apron from the golden figure, he moved his hand closer, but when a powerful grip tightened around his hand, he was forced to stop.

Jimin was startled, and he tried to get away instinctively, but he was unable to do so because the man turned around and fixed him with a menacing glare. Another hold held his little waist in place.

Thrill swept over Jimin at the sight of Taehyung's intense gaze, which was turning him on even more.

"I was just missing y-your touch"Jimin said, trying to seem innocent and talk his way out of danger. Jimin tried to weaken the man's anger by pouting and fluttering his eyelashes.

"Really, doll?" Taehyung's voice reflected a mix of restlessness and sadness. "I've been working nonstop since the morning, and I additionally didn't have time for lunch. I specifically requested that you order dinner for the two of us after notifying you of my delayed arrival." His disappointment was clear as he maintained his hold on Jimin's hand.

Jimin pouted, not appreciating having his mistakes pointed out to him. When someone called them out, he hated it. His voice was tinged with shame as he said, "I got so caught up in the game that I forgot to order food. I'm sorry."

But then a sly smirk flickered across his lips, revealing his genuine motives. "But what if I make it up to you instead?" To rekindle the playful atmosphere that usually enveloped them, he let his fingers slide down Taehyung's torso.

Further tightening Taehyung's hold prevented Jimin from moving forward. The answer was "no, doll."

Taehyung sighed, feeling the weight of his years-long work to persuade Jimin of the value of caring and supportive actions in a relationship.

He had made countless efforts to make Jimin understand how to treat him in the same manner that he always did, but it had proven to be difficult again and again.

Jimin, however, had not grown up in a stable home setting, so Taehyung hoped that with more time and his direction, Jimin would learn to be caring and responsible.

Moreover, Taehyung had promised Jimin that he would never abandon him, just as Jimin's mother did. He decided to forgive Jimin's mistakes once more, just as he had done from the start of their relationship.

Jimin was naive and required more time to understand these concepts. Yes, not much, really. Taehyung thought

"Please, doll, not tonight; I'm sorry. I'm so tired, please understand. " With a pang of guilt, Taehyung apologised. He kept his gaze on Jimin as he waited for him to understand the problem.

Jimin's seductive grin vanished and was replaced by a pout. He shook his hands away, showing his dissatisfaction. He murmured, "Fine," in a dejected tone, and walked away.

"I'm sorry, doll," Taehyung said again as Jimin left, unhappy. Taehyung returned to the stove and concentrated on completing his preparations.

Taehyung experienced guilt during dinner while Jimin stayed mute, making it evident that he was upset with him. Taehyung repeatedly offered his apologies, but they did not seem to reduce the tenseness.

Taehyung finally found some solace as his worn-out body sank into the mattress. He promptly drifted off to sleep, hoping for a better day the following day.

Taehyung's eyelids startled open in the middle of the night when he felt a hand caressing his abdomen from behind. His worn-out body yearned for a nap.

Jimin spoke softly: "Tae, I can't sleep. One round only. I need it," as Taehyung turned to him.

The night passed just like many others, with Taehyung sacrificing his own needs to fulfil Jimin's desires. Though it left him longing for some rest and some care, he found solace in knowing that he could bring happiness to his doll, even if it meant temporarily ignoring his own needs.

*Brriinggg*

Taehyung woke up from a short nap and silenced the phone alarm he had set on the desk in the office.

He had a coffee at lunch and then, as exhaustion set in, decided to take a quick nap. However, in order to be sure he wouldn't miss any vital work, he had set an alarm for ten minutes before his planned wake-up time.

Flashes from his earlier months have started to appear frequently in his sleep recently. He desired to discover a means to change these intrusive recollections because they were painful and upsetting, but so far he hadn't been successful. His head started aching, and as he rubbed it, he sighed as he suddenly recalled his evening dinner plans.

 
 
He asked his secretary, Namjoon, to come to his office over the phone. Taehyung requested that Namjoon make reservations at a posh restaurant for dinner when Namjoon got there, making it clear that it wasn't a date or for a couple, so the table arrangement shouldn't be romantic.

Namjoon told Taehyung that he would let him know as soon as the booking was complete, with a nod of understanding. Namjoon returned to Taehyung's cabin a little while later to inform him that the reservation had been made successfully.

The address was supplied to Taehyung, who looked it up on his phone. Namjoon smiled and departed after Taehyung thanked him.

Then Taehyung sent the young man his first message, introducing himself and confirming the dinner reservation.

Since there wasn't much time left as dusk fell and dinnertime drew near, Taehyung made the decision to freshen up in the office. Before leaving the workplace and travelling to the restaurant where he would meet the person who held a particular place in his parents' hearts, he washed his face, adjusted his clothes, and organised the files on his desk.

After stopping the car, Taehyung made his way to the restaurant entrance but stopped when he realised he had nothing with him. He pondered whether he needed to have brought something, perhaps a bouquet. He dismissed the idea, reasoning that it wasn't a date, and went ahead and entered the restaurant.

A waiter greeted him with a bow and led the way to the table he had reserved.

Taehyung looked around as the waiter walked away and saw a young man already seated at the table with his back to him. Taehyung took a deep breath and walked over to the table. As the boy quickly rose and turned to face him, Taehyung smiled genuinely, unaware of the effect he was having on the boy's senses.

to be continued.....

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