This story is dedicated to you if you have ever been abused by someone bigger, stronger, and seemingly more powerful than you. You are not alone. You are infinitely precious. And the trauma you endured is not your fault. Know that you are so loved. And whatever trauma you have been through – it does NOT define you. You are a beautiful rose, a lovely lily, a most precious gem.
Rated M for Mature. This story deals with some difficult topics and involves some graphic situations.
“Yes.” He paused. “Often. But I love my job. And I love my brothers. And I love my ARMYs.” He turned his head to look at her. She wished she could see his eyes. “But I love you too. And it’s different. It’s deeper. Hyejin, you’re the most beautiful person in all the world to me.”
Ohhhh.
Her heart had just melted into a pool in her stomach. Now the somersaults were swimming.
“Kookie, will you come inside with me?”
He nodded. “Yes.”
A couple minutes later, they were opening the door to her home when Twenty-two came bounding up to them. He barked excitedly as he saw Jungkook. He jumped up on him as Jungkook walked through the doorway.
“Hi, 22! I’ve missed you!” He petted the dog and scratched behind his ears. He turned towards Hyejin and murmured, “Glad he didn’t forget me!” Then he turned his attention back to the dog and spoke in an affectionately commanding voice, “Now go sit down. I need to talk to Hyejin.”
Tongue hanging out of his mouth in ecstasy, Twenty-two panted, barked, and circled the living room before plopping down on the floor.
Jungkook turned towards Hyejin.
“Say it again, Kookie.”
He looked at her quizzically.
“I couldn’t see your eyes in the car. The last thing you said before we came into my house.”
He thought for a moment, then his eyes lit up. He stepped towards her and reached out to take her hands in his own. “Hyejin, you are the most beautiful person in the world to me.” His deep, dark eyes probed the depths of her own as he uttered his lovely words again.
Tears filled her eyes. No one had ever said such words to her. She bit her lip as she gazed up at him. She loved him so much. But she had no idea how to respond to such lovely words.
He wanted to kiss her. Really intensely desired her lips. But he’d waited so long to kiss her. And he wanted it to be special. So he tilted his head to the side and smiled at her instead.
“Would you take a walk in the park with me tomorrow morning?” He glanced down at Twenty-two. “But leave 22 at home?”
Her eyes widened. “Oh. Okay. I’ll have to take him for a walk first, though.”
Jungkook nodded. “I know. Can I meet you here at six?”
She smiled. “Sure, Kookie.”
“I’m so glad you came tonight, Hyejin.”
Her eyes wide, she stood staring up at him. He was falling into those two dark pools. Feeling just as drawn to her now as he had the first week of their acquaintance. Only, now it was so much deeper. He now knew that when she was surprised, she made the cutest, little, squeaking sound. And she loved Choco Boys almost as much as he did. She was amazing at the game 26 Pickup Sticks. She baked the most delicious loaves of bread. Just for him sometimes. And her smile could light up the whole world. He hadn’t seen enough of it in recent weeks.
“Hyejin, promise me something,” he urged suddenly.
She looked up at him questioningly. “What?”
“Promise me that while I’m out of town – or even on the days that I just can’t find the time to see you here – you’ll send me a selfie of yourself. One you took that day.” He smiled. “One you’re smiling in. That way, the light of your smile can light up my whole day.”
Ohhh. My heart.
She stood just staring up at him. A look of total devastation on her countenance.
There was that urge again. To kiss her silly. If she looked at him like that much longer, he was going to kiss her right here in her living room. As her dog watched them.
He found the temptation was too great. He had to do something. He squeezed her hands and drew her close to him. He stood gazing down at her with those amazing, midnight eyes for a few moments. “I love you, Hyejin.” Why wasn’t it hard to say anymore? Those words were just rolling off his tongue now. Then he bent his head and brushed her cheek with his lips. “I’ll see you in the morning,” he breathed into her ear.
He had to get out of here. Now. So he could create the perfect moment. Tomorrow.
It was only a moment later as he stepped outside that he realized he didn’t have to sneak off to see her anymore. She was no longer just his secret. And Tae’s. All his closest friends knew of her presence now. Which meant they could assist him…
