Chapter 32
The next day, Taehyung and Jimin headed to the Sports Center for the basketball team selections. Coach Yang Sung, a stern-faced man with a whistle perpetually around his neck, oversaw the chaotic process of drills and hopeful students.
"Alright, listen up!" Coach Yang's voice boomed across the court. "We've got our final rosters. For the 'Phoenix Dazzlers' – you're Team A. For the 'Vanguard Hawks' – you're Team B."
Taehyung, who had spent most of the drills trying to ensure his hair stayed perfectly coiffed while making dramatic passes, nudged Jimin excitedly. "Phoenix Dazzlers, Jiminie! It must be us! A truly magnificent name, embodying both my ethereal brilliance and our fiery determination!"
Indeed, when Coach Yang read out the names for the 'Phoenix Dazzlers', Taehyung's ears perked up. "Kim Taehyung! Park Jimin! Lee Jinwoo! Choi Sora! And Captain, Park Yura!"
Taehyung beamed, clutching Jimin's arm. "We're on the same team, Jiminie! And a Captain! This is truly a strategic advantage!" He then spotted Park Yura, a tall, confident-looking boy from the Computer Science department, walking towards them. Yura was known for his calm demeanor and strategic mind, a stark contrast to Taehyung's dramatics.
Coach Yang then called the two team captains to the center of the court. "Alright, Captains, for the first match-up, we'll do a simple head-or-tails to decide who gets first possession." He held up a coin.
Park Yura, the captain of Taehyung's team, stepped forward, his expression composed. Opposite him was the captain of the 'Vanguard Hawks', a burly, competitive-looking student from the Engineering department.
"Heads or tails, Captain Yura?" Coach Yang asked, flipping the coin high into the air.
Yura watched the coin spin. "Heads," he called out, his voice clear and steady.
The coin landed with a soft clink on the polished wooden floor. Coach Yang leaned down, then straightened up, a slight smile on his face. "It's heads! Captain Yura, first possession goes to the Phoenix Dazzlers!"
Taehyung clapped his hands together, his sapphire necklace shimmering with his excitement. "Yes! A premonition of victory! It means our dramatic destiny is sealed, Jiminie! Our captain is truly gifted!" He gave Yura an overly enthusiastic thumbs-up, making Yura raise an eyebrow slightly, a hint of amusement in his calm gaze.
Jimin just shook his head, a mixture of exasperation and quiet anticipation settling over him. He knew this tournament, with Taehyung involved, was going to be anything but predictable. And with Coach Yang's stern eye and Yura's composed leadership, it would be an interesting blend of chaos and strategy.
The first warm-up practice for the 'Phoenix Dazzlers' began with a cacophony of squeaking shoes and Coach Yang Sung's booming commands. Taehyung, still radiating his "bad boy with a diamond" aura, stood out immediately. His pristine white jersey, while part of the team uniform, seemed to gleam brighter than anyone else's, especially with the diamond and sapphire necklace subtly peeking from beneath his collar and the diamond ring catching every reflection.
"Alright, Dazzlers! Five laps around the court! Let's go!" Coach Yang bellowed, blowing his whistle with fierce intensity.
Taehyung, instead of immediately jogging, took a dramatic stretch, then began his laps with an almost theatrical grace. He wasn't running so much as gliding, his movements fluid, but perhaps not entirely geared for speed. He maintained a perfectly upright posture, ensuring his necklace didn't bounce awkwardly, and occasionally glanced at his reflection in the polished gym walls.
Jimin, panting slightly beside him, nudged him. "Taehyung, this is a warm-up, not a photoshoot. Pick up the pace!"
"Nonsense, Jiminie!" Taehyung retorted, though his breath was a little short. "Every moment is a performance! And besides, one must maintain one's ethereal aesthetic even during strenuous physical activity! My Bunny Boss expects nothing less than perfection!" He then added, a little more softly, "And if I go too fast, my sparkle might create a dizzying effect on the court."
Coach Yang, watching them from the sidelines, blew his whistle again, a long, piercing blast. "Kim Taehyung! Less gliding, more running! This isn't ballet practice!"
Taehyung sighed dramatically, but grudgingly picked up his pace, though his form remained unusually elegant for a basketball player. Yura, their captain, ran efficiently, a picture of calm focus, never missing a beat. He occasionally cast a subtle, amused glance in Taehyung's direction, but said nothing.
Next came dribbling drills. Coach Yang demonstrated, then had the team pair up. Taehyung found himself awkwardly fumbling with the basketball, his long fingers, usually so graceful, struggling with the erratic bounce. The diamond ring, he found, actually made gripping the ball slightly uncomfortable.
"Focus, Kim Taehyung! Keep your eyes on the ball!" Coach Yang barked, watching him intently.
Taehyung pouted. "But Coach! My eyes are drawn to the profound artistry of the court lines! And the subtle shimmer of my own brilliance!" He bounced the ball with exaggerated care, almost cradling it.
Yura, standing nearby, finished his own drills with practiced ease. He walked over to Taehyung, a faint smile on his lips. "Try to relax your grip, Taehyung. Let the ball be an extension of your hand, not something you're trying to tame." He then gently took Taehyung's hand, subtly adjusting his finger placement on the ball, carefully avoiding contact with the large diamond ring. "And maybe... focus on the ball itself, just for a moment."
Taehyung blinked, slightly surprised by Yura's calm, direct approach. He tried to follow Yura's quiet advice, and surprisingly, the ball became a little more manageable.
"See?" Yura said, a hint of encouragement in his voice. "It's all about control. You'll get it." He then moved on, leaving Taehyung to ponder the unexpected practicality of his captain. This was going to be a fascinating journey indeed.
The warm-up continued with a run around the outdoor playground track adjoining the gym. Coach Yang, wanting to test their stamina, pushed them harder. The afternoon sun beat down, and even Jimin was starting to feel the burn.
Taehyung, however, was struggling. His elegant strides had turned into heavy, dragging steps. The initial burst of dramatic enthusiasm had long since faded, replaced by genuine physical exhaustion. His breath came in ragged gasps, his face flushed, and the sapphire necklace bounced precariously with each strained movement. He wasn't used to this kind of prolonged exertion.
"Just a little more, Taehyung!" Jimin called out, trying to encourage him, but Taehyung barely registered it.
Suddenly, Taehyung's foot caught on an uneven patch of pavement. With a gasp, he stumbled, pitching forward. He tried to catch himself, but his legs were too tired, too weak. He landed hard on his hands and knees, a cry of surprise escaping him as he scraped his palms on the rough ground. The glittering necklace swung wildly before settling.
Instantly, before Coach Yang could even react, the two security guards assigned to Taehyung moved with lightning speed. Agent Kang and Agent Park, who had been discreetly maintaining their distance, sprinted towards him, covering the ground in mere seconds.
Agent Kang reached Taehyung first, kneeling beside him with an air of urgent professionalism. "Mr. Kim! Are you alright? Are you injured?" He quickly assessed Taehyung for any serious wounds, his eyes scanning for anything beyond superficial scrapes.
Agent Park was right behind him, a small, insulated water bottle already in his hand. He knelt, opening it. "Here, Mr. Kim. Drink slowly." He gently helped Taehyung sit up, offering the water.
Taehyung, shaken and winded, leaned against Agent Kang, his chest heaving. "I... I'm fine," he panted, his voice weak. He took the water bottle with a trembling hand, gratefully taking a long, slow sip. The scrapes on his hands stung, but mostly he felt the profound embarrassment and sheer exhaustion. "Just... tired."
Coach Yang, having jogged over, looked concerned. "Taehyung, are you sure? Maybe you should sit out the rest of practice."
Miles away, in his highly secure Seoul office, Jungkook sat at his desk, immersed in a complex financial report. The screen glowed with numbers and graphs, but a subtle, almost imperceptible earpiece was tucked into his ear, constantly feeding him updates from his security teams.
Suddenly, Agent Kang's voice, usually calm and composed, crackled with urgency through the earpiece. "Boss! Mr. Kim has taken a fall during warm-ups! Minor scrapes to hands and knees. No major injuries confirmed. Providing hydration and assessing for continued participation."
Jungkook's eyes snapped away from his report. His body tensed, the numbers on the screen immediately fading from his awareness. A cold, sharp wave of protective fury washed over him. Taehyung, hurt? His dramatic darling, scraped and exhausted? The mere thought ignited a protective fire.
"Fall?" Jungkook's voice was a low, dangerous growl into his own comms, barely audible to Jungwoo, who was also in the office. "Is he truly alright? What were the coaches doing? Why was he not stopped before reaching exhaustion?" His questions were sharp, laced with an unspoken threat.
Agent Kang's calm voice returned. "He appears to be okay, Boss. Just winded. And a little embarrassed. We're on it."
Jungkook took a deep, steadying breath, trying to rein in his immediate, ruthless instincts. He knew Taehyung was pursuing this basketball endeavor, but the thought of him falling, getting hurt, even slightly, was intolerable. He pictured Taehyung's face, likely tear-streaked and pouting, and his jaw clenched.
"Ensure he has all necessary medical attention, no matter how minor the injury," Jungkook commanded, his voice returning to its usual controlled authority, though an edge remained. "Monitor his participation closely. If there is any further risk, you are to pull him from the activity. Understood?" He then forcefully dismissed the financial report from his screen, his focus now entirely on his dramatic darling's well-being.
Jungkook's command through the earpiece was swift and non-negotiable. Agent Park, having just helped Taehyung with water, quickly moved to execute it. From a discreet distance, a black umbrella, unusually large and sleek, was handed to him by another operative.
"Understood, Boss. Immediate compliance," Agent Park murmured into his comms.
Meanwhile, Taehyung, still a bit wobbly from his fall but determined to prove his mettle, had grudgingly rejoined the running drills. He had, however, added a new accessory. His oversized, designer sunglasses, previously perched on his head, were now firmly on his face, obscuring his eyes. He also managed to pull out a small, portable fan from his gym bag, holding it subtly to his face during brief pauses.
"Alright, Phoenix Dazzlers! Last lap! Push yourselves!" Coach Yang's voice echoed.
Taehyung took a deep breath, trying to channel his inner dramatic resilience. He started running again, a picture of determined effort, though his movements were still more fluid grace than raw athletic power.
Suddenly, a shadow fell over him. Taehyung, slightly startled, glanced up. To his utter astonishment, Agent Park was now running directly behind him, holding the large black umbrella perfectly over his head, shielding him from the afternoon sun. Agent Park maintained a steady, unwavering pace, his face impassive, the umbrella an unmoving canopy above Taehyung.
Taehyung's initial shock quickly turned into a delighted, almost smug smile, hidden behind his sunglasses. He sped up ever so slightly, feeling a renewed burst of energy from the sheer absurdity and indulgence of the situation. This was truly a level of personal service he appreciated.
Jimin, running nearby, nearly tripped, doing a double-take at the sight. "Taehyung! Is that... is that an umbrella? While you're running?"
Taehyung just offered a small, knowing smirk, but didn't break his stride. He focused on his breathing, enjoying the unexpected shade.
The other students on the track, particularly those from the opposing 'Vanguard Hawks' team, were utterly bewildered. They stared openly, their jaws practically on the ground. A student running with bodyguards was one thing. A student running with a bodyguard holding a personal umbrella over his head, shielding him from the sun, while he wore designer sunglasses? That was a whole new level of bizarre extravagance. A wave of bewildered jealousy, mixed with confused awe, washed over their faces.
"What in the world...?" one of the 'Vanguard Hawks' players mumbled, completely distracted from his own running. "Is he serious right now?"
"He's got a guy running with an umbrella for him!" another exclaimed, unable to believe his eyes.
Taehyung, hearing their whispers, simply smirked wider. He adjusted his sunglasses, then subtly touched the diamond and sapphire necklace beneath his collar. This was exactly the kind of profound statement his Bunny Boss understood. It wasn't just about shade; it was about privilege, about absolute devotion, about being utterly cherished. And it was working perfectly.
The final whistle blew, signaling the end of the first warm-up practice. Coach Yang dismissed them with a stern warning about showing up on time for the next session, his gaze lingering briefly on Taehyung and his umbrella-wielding bodyguard.
The boys' changing room was a hubbub of activity, filled with the scent of sweat, the rustle of clothes, and the low chatter of tired athletes. Taehyung, still wearing his sunglasses and with the faint sheen of perspiration on his face, walked in with Jimin, Agent Kang and Agent Park discreetly positioning themselves just outside the door, ensuring his privacy while maintaining their vigilance.
Taehyung sighed dramatically, pulling off his pristine white jersey. "Oh, Jiminie, I feel as though I've run a marathon across the desert! My muscles are profoundly confused by this sudden burst of... sustained effort." He carefully folded his jersey, avoiding any creases. His diamond and sapphire necklace, however, remained dazzlingly prominent against his skin.
Jimin, who was already peeling off his damp shirt, chuckled. "You did alright, for someone who usually avoids anything more strenuous than reaching for a remote. I think that umbrella really helped your 'aesthetic stamina'."
Taehyung beamed, adjusting his sunglasses. "It was indeed a vital piece of strategic equipment! My Bunny Boss truly understands the nuances of optimal performance! And it certainly made a statement, didn't it? The other teams looked utterly fascinated." He glanced around the bustling room, observing the other players.
Donghyun, the student who had made the crude comment the other day, was changing with his friends a few lockers down. He cast a nervous glance towards Taehyung, quickly looking away when Taehyung's gaze, hidden behind the dark lenses, seemed to linger. The memory of Jungkook's intimidating presence, and the sheer extravagance of the umbrella, clearly hadn't faded.
"I think 'fascinated' is a polite way of saying 'completely baffled'," Jimin said, pulling a fresh t-shirt over his head. "They probably think you're even crazier than before."
"Oh, they simply don't comprehend the profound level of devotion and meticulous care that surrounds me," Taehyung stated, reaching for a fresh, plush towel. "It's a rarefied air, Jiminie, that only certain individuals are privileged to breathe. Like us." He gave Jimin a playful nudge.
Another student, Jinwoo, who was also on the 'Phoenix Dazzlers' team, walked past. He gave Taehyung a hesitant, slightly awestruck look. "Hey, Taehyung. That... that necklace is really something else. And the umbrella run was... memorable."
Taehyung preened. "Ah, Jinwoo! You appreciate true sparkle! It's a token of profound affection, you see. From my Bunny Boss." He subtly shifted his stance, allowing the necklace to catch the fluorescent lights, sending a dazzling array of reflections across the room. "And the umbrella, of course, was for optimal sun protection and the preservation of my delicate complexion during intense athletic endeavors."
Jinwoo just nodded slowly, clearly unsure how to respond to Taehyung's earnest, yet absurd, explanation. He glanced at Jimin, who just shrugged good-naturedly. The 'Glitter Phoenix' and his enigmatic 'Bunny Boss' continued to be the most bewildering, fascinating topic on campus.
Days bled into a week. Basketball practices continued, a chaotic blend of Taehyung's dramatic flair, Jimin's exasperated encouragement, and Coach Yang's booming commands. Taehyung, with his gleaming necklace and umbrella-wielding bodyguard, remained the undisputed spectacle of the campus. Yet, despite his flamboyant distractions, his thoughts always circled back to Jungkook.
One afternoon, after a particularly draining practice, Taehyung and Jimin walked out to find not their usual familiar car, but a different, more discreet black sedan waiting. Agent Kang opened the door, his expression unreadable.
"Mr. Kim, Mr. Park," Agent Kang's voice was calm, but held a subtle note of command. "We're taking a different route today. Mr. Jeon wishes to see you both at the headquarters."
Taehyung blinked, his dramatic posture momentarily faltering. "Headquarters? Not the mansion? Is Bunny Boss alright? Has a new villain emerged? Or is it a surprise party for my sustained athletic effort?" He looked at Jimin, who also seemed slightly confused.
Jimin frowned. "Headquarters? I thought Jungkook only went there for really serious business. Is everything okay, Agent Kang?"
Agent Kang merely gave a slight, polite nod. "Mr. Jeon is well, Mr. Park. He simply requires your presence." He gestured for them to get in.
Taehyung, sensing an uncharacteristic shift in routine, felt a prickle of nervous excitement mixed with apprehension. He glanced at Jimin, who looked equally unsure, but they both complied, sliding into the plush back seats. The car pulled away, not towards the familiar residential district, but deeper into the bustling commercial heart of Seoul, eventually turning into a private, unmarked road that led to a sleek, imposing skyscraper. The building had no discernible company logo, just dark, reflective glass stretching towards the sky.
The security at the entrance was formidable, yet swift. Doors opened silently as they approached, and they were guided into a private elevator that whisked them upwards without a single stop. The atmosphere inside was hushed, efficient, and permeated by a powerful, almost tangible sense of authority.
When the elevator doors opened, they stepped out into a vast, minimalist corridor. Another guard, even more imposing than Agent Kang, stood waiting.
"This way, Mr. Kim, Mr. Park," the guard said, his voice deep and respectful, leading them down the silent hallway. They passed several heavy, unmarked doors, a stark contrast to the usual open, bustling offices they imagined.
Finally, they stopped before a large, double door of dark, polished wood. The guard turned to them.
"Mr. Jeon's office is through here. He is expecting you," the guard stated, his eyes sweeping over them. "You may enter. I will wait here."
He then stepped back, leaving Taehyung and Jimin standing alone before the imposing doors. The silence of the corridor pressed in on them, amplifying the sense of gravity and power that permeated the entire building. Taehyung looked at the doors, then at Jimin, a knot of nervousness and profound curiosity tightening in his stomach. This was clearly more than just a casual visit.
Taehyung and Jimin stood before the imposing double doors, the silence of the hallway amplifying their apprehension. Taehyung, despite his earlier theatrical pronouncements, felt a genuine flutter of nerves. This was Jungkook's true domain, a place of serious business and immense power, far removed from the mansion's comfortable opulence.
Jimin nudged Taehyung. "Well? Go on. He's waiting."
Taking a deep breath, Taehyung reached out and pushed the heavy doors open. They swung inward silently, revealing a vast, exquisitely minimalist office. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking panoramic view of Seoul, making the city sprawl like a toy kingdom beneath them. The space was meticulously ordered, filled with dark, sleek furniture and cutting-edge technology. It hummed with a quiet, undeniable power.
Jungkook stood by the largest window, his back to them, seemingly lost in thought as he gazed out at his city. He was dressed in a pristine white shirt, sleeves rolled up to reveal his powerful forearms, and dark trousers. He looked every inch the formidable figure of authority.
"Bunny Boss?" Taehyung's voice was a soft inquiry, cutting through the silence.
Jungkook turned. The moment his eyes landed on Taehyung, the rigid lines of his posture softened. The cold, calculating intensity that usually resided there melted away, replaced by a profound tenderness that was reserved only for his dramatic darling. He smiled, a genuine, warm smile that transformed his entire face.
"Dramatic darling," Jungkook said, his voice deep and gentle, a stark contrast to the command his voice usually carried in this place. He walked towards them, his eyes solely on Taehyung. "Thank you for coming."
Jimin, sensing the intimate shift in atmosphere, discreetly moved to the side, giving them space.
Taehyung, forgetting his earlier apprehension, rushed forward, throwing his arms around Jungkook's neck. "Bunny Boss! I was so worried! Is everything alright? Is there a new crisis? A dramatic emergency only you can solve?"
Jungkook held him close, burying his face in Taehyung's hair, inhaling deeply. "Everything is perfectly alright, love," he murmured, his voice laced with overwhelming affection. "There's no crisis. No emergency." He pulled back slightly, his hands cupping Taehyung's face. His thumbs gently wiped away a smudge near Taehyung's eye that must have appeared during basketball practice.
"Then why did you bring me here?" Taehyung asked, his eyes wide and curious, gazing around the imposing office. "This is your... serious place."
Jungkook's gaze was soft, filled with an intensity that only Taehyung could provoke. He reached up, his fingers gently tracing the diamond and sapphire necklace, then the diamond ring. "I brought you here, dramatic darling," Jungkook explained, his voice quiet, sincere. "Because this is my world. And I wanted you to see it. I wanted you to see the scope of what I do, what I build, what I control."
He paused, his eyes holding Taehyung's. "But more than that, I wanted you here because you are the only reason I do any of it. All this," he gestured vaguely around the vast, powerful office, "all the power, the money, the empire... it means nothing without you. It's empty." He looked deeply into Taehyung's eyes. "I just want to love my dramatic darling. To protect you. To spoil you with everything I have. To make sure you never have to cry because of cruel words again. That's why you're here. Because this is my heart, and you are its only true purpose."
He leaned in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to Taehyung's forehead, then his lips. It was a kiss of profound devotion, a silent promise echoing through the powerful, yet now intimate, space.
Taehyung stared at Jungkook, his eyes wide and glistening with unshed tears. Jungkook's raw confession, spoken in this stark, powerful setting, resonated deep within him. All his previous anxieties about Jungkook's work, about his absence, about being called "eye candy," dissolved. This was Jungkook, completely vulnerable, utterly devoted, showing him the core of his world and declaring Taehyung its very center.
"Bunny Boss," Taehyung whispered, his voice thick with emotion. He launched himself forward, wrapping his arms tightly around Jungkook's neck, burying his face in his shoulder. "Oh, my Bunny Boss! My heart... my heart is bursting! I love you so much! More than all the sparkles in the universe!"
Jungkook held him close, his arms wrapping possessively around Taehyung's waist. He pressed a kiss to Taehyung's hair, a deep sigh of contentment escaping him. In that moment, surrounded by the power of his empire, all he felt was the profound comfort and joy of holding his dramatic darling. This was his true victory.
"You're everything, dramatic darling," Jungkook murmured against Taehyung's hair. "My reason. My purpose." He gently swayed them, a quiet, intimate dance in the heart of his headquarters.
Meanwhile, Jimin, having discreetly moved away to give them privacy, found himself face to face with a familiar figure entering the office through a side door. Min Yoongi, Jungkook's elusive, sharp-witted strategist and the man Jimin had long held a complicated, often frustrating, attraction to. Suga, as he was known, carried a tablet, his usual cool, indifferent expression firmly in place.
"Suga!" Jimin greeted, a hopeful smile on his face, trying to project a casual confidence despite the racing of his heart. "Fancy meeting you here. Still perfecting your 'silent judgment' routine?"
Suga merely glanced at him, his dark eyes cool and dismissive. He walked past Jimin without breaking stride, heading directly towards a large holographic display in a corner of the office, completely ignoring Jimin's greeting. He tapped a few commands on his tablet, and complex data models began to swim into view on the display.
Jimin's smile faltered. He sighed, deflating slightly. "Seriously? A cold shoulder, even here? We haven't seen each other in weeks, you know. I thought maybe, just maybe, you'd be a little less... icy."
Suga didn't even turn around. His voice, when he finally spoke, was flat, devoid of emotion, his gaze still fixed on the holographic projections. "Work calls, Park Jimin. This isn't a social hour. And I wasn't aware we were keeping a tally of our encounters."
Jimin ran a hand through his hair, a frustrated huff escaping him. He glanced at Taehyung and Jungkook, still wrapped in their love bubble by the window. He was stuck here, caught between his best friend's overwhelming romance and the infuriating indifference of the man he couldn't quite get out of his head.
"Right," Jimin mumbled to himself, crossing his arms and leaning against a wall, trying to project an air of cool nonchalance he didn't feel. "Just checking. Wouldn't want to interrupt your profound dedication to... pixels." He sighed again, resigned to his fate. This was going to be a long afternoon.
The next afternoon, Jungkook, having concluded his most pressing work at the headquarters, decided it was time to address a certain athletic need. He informed Taehyung they were going shopping. Taehyung, of course, was ecstatic.
They arrived at an exclusive sports boutique, a place far removed from any regular retail store, specializing in high-performance and custom-designed athletic wear. The staff greeted Jungkook with hushed reverence, their eyes carefully avoiding making direct contact with his.
Taehyung, however, was in his element. His eyes, still sparkling from the morning's intense reunion with Jungkook, scanned the rows of sleek, colorful shoes.
"Bunny Boss!" Taehyung exclaimed, pointing to a pair of luminous silver and electric blue basketball shoes. "These! These possess the profound sparkle required for court domination! Don't you think?"
Jungkook, watching Taehyung's excitement, smiled indulgently. "If they make you feel magnificent, dramatic darling, then they are perfect." He turned to a waiting sales assistant. "Bring out his size. And the highest-performance model in that style."
While Taehyung was already trying on the dazzling shoes, bouncing slightly on the plush carpet, Jungkook turned to Jimin. Jimin had been quietly observing, leaning against a display of athletic gear.
"Jimin," Jungkook said, his voice softer than usual. "You're playing with Taehyung, correct? You'll need proper footwear as well. Choose anything you like. Anything at all."
Jimin, who had been expecting to just watch, looked surprised. "Oh, no, Jungkook, you don't have to. I have shoes. They're... fine."
"Nonsense," Jungkook stated, a hint of his underlying authority in his tone. "You're playing with my dramatic darling. Your safety and comfort are paramount. And your performance reflects on him, doesn't it?" He gave Jimin a look that left no room for argument. "Go on. Find something."
Jimin sighed, knowing better than to refuse Jungkook when he used that particular tone. He walked over to a section of basketball shoes, still feeling a little awkward but undeniably grateful. He eventually picked out a sleek, understated black pair with subtle red accents.
Taehyung, meanwhile, was doing a series of dramatic spins and jumps in his new silver and blue shoes. "Oh, Bunny Boss! These feel like clouds made of pure athleticism! My vertical jump will be legendary! My dribbling, a dazzling blur!" He then rushed over to Jimin, who was trying on his own pair. "Jiminie! Look! We are now true 'Bunny Boss Ballers' from head to toe! Well, from knee to toe, anyway!"
Jungkook watched them, a small, genuine smile on his face. Seeing Taehyung so utterly joyful, so completely absorbed in his new, sparkly endeavor, filled him with a quiet satisfaction. He might control empires, but Taehyung’s happiness was his most cherished conquest. He instructed the staff to package both pairs, along with several other accessories Taehyung had pointed to, no matter how extravagant.
The elegant dinner progressed, filled with the soft clinking of silverware and Taehyung's animated chatter. Their main courses arrived, artfully arranged and fragrant. Jungkook had ordered a mild, delicate fish dish for Taehyung, knowing his aversion to anything spicy, while he himself had opted for a more robust, flavorful steak. Jimin had chosen a classic pasta.
"Oh, this looks divine, Bunny Boss!" Taehyung exclaimed, gazing at his plate. "Such delicate artistry! My taste buds are already performing a symphony of anticipation!" He picked up his fork and, with graceful precision, took a generous bite.
The moment the food touched his tongue, Taehyung's eyes widened. His chewing slowed, then stopped. A surprised frown creased his brow, which quickly morphed into a look of alarm. His face began to flush, a rapid crimson spreading from his cheeks to his ears.
"Bunny Boss," Taehyung gasped, his voice suddenly strained, a faint tremor in it. "My mouth... my mouth feels like it's on fire!" He dropped his fork, fanning his tongue dramatically with one hand. "It burns! Profoundly! What is this fiery torment?!"
Jungkook, who had just been about to take a bite of his own meal, froze. His gaze snapped to Taehyung's rapidly reddening face. He immediately picked up Taehyung's fork and sniffed the fish, then touched a tiny flake to his own tongue. His eyes hardened instantly. It was heavily spiced, far beyond what he had ordered for Taehyung.
"Water! Get him water now!" Jungkook's voice was a low, dangerous growl, cutting through the restaurant's polite hum. His eyes, now cold as ice, swept across the room, fixing on the nearest waiter with an intensity that promised immediate retribution. The waiter, sensing the shift in atmosphere, visibly flinched.
Jimin, reacting quickly, grabbed a glass of water from their table and thrust it into Taehyung's hand. "Taehyung, drink! Quickly!"
Taehyung gulped desperately, sputtering as the water did little to quell the intense burning sensation in his mouth and throat. Tears began to stream from his eyes, not from sadness, but from the sheer agony of the unexpected spice. He coughed, a painful, raw sound.
Jungkook, his face a mask of chilling fury, stood up. His chair scraped loudly against the floor, a jarring sound in the quiet restaurant. His eyes, fixed on Taehyung's tear-streaked, burning face, radiated a terrifying wrath. He turned his gaze to the waiter who was now rushing towards their table with a new glass of water, his posture conveying absolute, lethal power.
"What is this?" Jungkook's voice was barely above a whisper, yet it felt like thunder in the suddenly hushed restaurant. Every head had turned. "This is not what I ordered. My dramatic darling cannot tolerate spice. And you have inflicted profound pain upon him." He held up the fork, a tiny piece of the offending fish still clinging to it. "Explain. Now."
The waiter stammered, pale and trembling. "S-sir, I... I apologize! There must have been a mistake in the kitchen! Perhaps a mix-up with another table's order!"
Jungkook's eyes narrowed, cold and dangerous. He looked from Taehyung, who was still fanning his mouth and tearing up, to the terrified waiter, then to the kitchen doors. The subtle hum of conversation in the restaurant had completely died. The air was thick with the chilling silence that preceded a storm.
The silence in the restaurant was deafening, every patron and staff member frozen in place by the sheer, palpable rage emanating from Jungkook. His eyes, still fixed on the trembling waiter, promised no mercy.
"A mistake?" Jungkook's voice was a low, chilling whisper that somehow carried through the entire dining room. "You serve my partner, who cannot tolerate spice, a dish designed to cause him pain, and you call it a mistake?" He looked at Taehyung, who was still red-faced and coughing, and a vein pulsed visibly in Jungkook's temple. "This is no mistake. This is negligence. Or worse."
He turned his full attention back to the waiter. "Take me to your chef. Now." It wasn't a request. It was an absolute command.
The terrified waiter, unable to do anything but obey, led the way, practically stumbling towards the kitchen doors. Jungkook followed, his steps deliberate and powerful, his posture radiating lethal intent. Jimin, after ensuring Taehyung was settled and had another glass of water, quickly rose to follow, knowing he couldn't leave Jungkook to deal with this alone.
The kitchen, usually a bustling symphony of clanging pots and shouting chefs, fell into an immediate, stunned silence as Jungkook entered. His presence alone was enough to quell the chaos. Chefs froze mid-chop, line cooks dropped their utensils, and the oppressive heat of the kitchen seemed to intensify under the weight of his anger.
The Executive Chef, a portly man with a pristine white coat, stepped forward, his face paling as he recognized Jungkook, not just as a high-spending patron, but as the rumored, formidable power behind the city's invisible strings.
"Mr. Jeon!" the Chef stammered, bowing low. "What an honor, sir! Is something amiss?" His eyes nervously darted from Jungkook's unyielding face to the terrified waiter.
Jungkook didn't acknowledge the greeting. He held out the fork with the offending piece of fish, his voice dropping to a dangerous, barely audible level. "This dish," he began, his eyes boring into the Chef's, "was ordered for my partner. A partner who, as your establishment's records should clearly show, has a severe intolerance to spice. Yet, he received this." He gestured to the highly spiced fish on the fork.
The Chef's face went from pale to ashen. He understood the gravity of such a mistake when dealing with someone of Jungkook's true stature. "My deepest apologies, Mr. Jeon! This is inexcusable! I assure you, it will never happen again! We follow all dietary requirements meticulously!"
"Meticulously?" Jungkook scoffed, a chilling laugh devoid of humor. "My partner's face is still red. His throat still burns. His comfort was breached. His safety, neglected. A simple 'mistake' in this establishment, with my patronage, is an act of profound disrespect." His eyes hardened, sweeping over the entire kitchen staff, making everyone visibly shrink. "Do you understand the implications of disrespecting what is mine? Do you truly grasp the consequences?"
He didn't need to elaborate. The fear in the Chef's eyes, and in the eyes of every trembling cook, told him they understood perfectly. Jungkook's power wasn't about public displays; it was about the quiet, terrifying knowledge that his reach was absolute, and his wrath, boundless when directed at those who harmed what he cherished.
"I will ensure this is rectified," the Chef whispered, bowing again, his voice trembling. "Immediately, Mr. Jeon. With the utmost severity. Whatever you require."
Jungkook merely stared at him, a silent, menacing promise in his gaze. He then turned, his anger a cold, controlled storm, and walked out of the kitchen, leaving the entire staff in a state of terrified, stunned silence. The message was clear. No one, not even by accident, was allowed to cause his dramatic darling a moment of pain.
Back at the table, Taehyung was still fanning his mouth, though the worst of the burning sensation was beginning to subside, replaced by a lingering sting and a profound sense of injustice. Jimin had retrieved a basket of plain bread, urging Taehyung to eat some to help soothe his palate.
Jungkook returned from the kitchen, his face still a mask of controlled fury, but the moment his eyes landed on Taehyung, his expression softened. He immediately sat down, pulling Taehyung closer.
"Dramatic darling," Jungkook murmured, his voice a low rumble, "are you alright now? Is the burning subsiding?" He gently stroked Taehyung's cheek, his thumb brushing away a lingering tear track.
Taehyung sniffled, leaning into Jungkook's touch. "It's still profoundly uncomfortable, Bunny Boss! My tongue feels like it has offended a dragon! And my throat is quite cross with me!"
Just then, a small procession of waiters approached their table, led by the utterly terrified Executive Chef himself. He was no longer dressed in his pristine white coat, which had seemingly been replaced with a freshly ironed, perhaps even newer, one. In his hands, he personally carried an enormous, glistening bowl.
It was an ice cream sundae of epic proportions. Towering scoops of vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream, swimming in rivers of fudge and caramel. Piled high with whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate shavings, and adorned with several perfectly ripe strawberries and cherries. It looked less like a dessert and more like a shimmering, sweet mountain.
The Chef, his face still pale but now etched with desperate apology, placed the monumental dessert gently on the table before Taehyung. "Mr. Kim, sir," he began, his voice trembling slightly. "Please accept our sincerest, deepest apologies. This... this is a special creation, personally prepared by myself. A small token of our profound regret for the unfortunate incident. Please, for your comfort."
Taehyung's eyes, still a little red, widened considerably at the sight of the colossal ice cream. The sheer, overwhelming sweetness of it was a stark contrast to the fiery torment he had just endured. His dramatic flair, momentarily dulled by discomfort, began to re-emerge.
"Bunny Boss," Taehyung whispered, his voice hushed with awe, gazing at the ice cream mountain. "It's... it's magnificent! A grand gesture of culinary contrition!"
Jungkook, however, remained impassive. He merely glanced at the Chef, his eyes cold and unwavering. "See that this never, ever happens again," he stated, his voice quiet but laced with an undeniable threat that made the Chef flinch and bow even lower. "My dramatic darling's well-being is not a matter for 'mistakes'."
The Chef quickly retreated, leaving the towering ice cream as his silent plea for mercy.
Taehyung, however, was already reaching for a spoon, his spirits visibly lifting. "Oh, Bunny Boss! This is precisely what my tormented taste buds require! A grand, frosty embrace!" He took a large spoonful, his eyes closing in pure, unadulterated bliss as the cold, sweet concoction soothed his burning mouth. "This makes up for at least... half the profound agony!"
Jungkook watched him, a faint, possessive smile returning to his lips as he saw Taehyung's joy. His anger hadn't completely vanished, but Taehyung's immediate comfort was paramount. He knew the message had been delivered. And for now, the sweetest revenge was seeing his dramatic darling happy, even if it was with a mountain of apology ice cream.
Back at the mansion, the lingering sweetness of the colossal ice cream sundae and the dramatic thrill of the restaurant incident had finally faded into a comfortable calm. Taehyung and Jungkook retired to Jungkook's bedroom, a vast space of muted tones and understated luxury. Jimin, after a quick, exasperated "Good night, you two," retreated to his own wing of the mansion, no doubt ready for some much-needed quiet.
Jungkook, shedding the tailored suit of the evening, had changed into simple, dark grey sweatpants and a loose-fitting black T-shirt. He moved with an easy grace, his powerful frame evident even in the casual clothing. He poured himself a glass of water, then turned to Taehyung, who was now meticulously removing his diamond and sapphire necklace, humming a soft, contented tune.
"Are you truly comfortable now, dramatic darling?" Jungkook asked, his voice soft, as he watched Taehyung carefully place the necklace back into its box. "No lingering discomfort from the spice?"
Taehyung turned, a radiant smile on his face. "Completely comfortable, Bunny Boss! Your magnificent ice cream vanquished the fiery dragon! My taste buds have returned to their state of profound bliss!" He then walked over to Jungkook, looping his arms around his waist and resting his head on Jungkook's chest. "It's so much better now that you're here. The mansion feels warm again."
Jungkook's arms instinctively wrapped around Taehyung, holding him close. "Good. I wouldn't have tolerated anything less." He pressed a kiss to Taehyung's hair.
Taehyung sighed, a happy, content sound, enjoying the familiar scent and warmth of Jungkook. He looked up, his gaze sweeping over Jungkook's casual attire, then his eyes twinkled with a new, mischievous idea.
"Bunny Boss," Taehyung murmured, his voice soft and thoughtful, his fingers tracing the line of Jungkook's shirt. "You know, you look very handsome in your sweatpants and T-shirt. Very strong. Very... comfortable."
Jungkook chuckled. "Thank you, love. I aim for comfort after a long day."
"But," Taehyung continued, pushing away slightly to look up at Jungkook, his eyes wide and earnest, "I've been thinking. You are so beautiful, Bunny Boss. So utterly perfect. And you are... intersex, aren't you?"
Jungkook's eyes held his, a faint surprise flickering in their depths. It wasn't something they often discussed explicitly, but it was an undeniable part of who he was. "Yes, dramatic darling. I am."
"Then," Taehyung began, his voice taking on a hushed, almost reverent tone, "I have a profound request. I've seen you in all your powerful suits, your athletic gear, even your pajamas. But I have a vision. I truly believe you would look absolutely breathtaking in a flowing gown. Something luxurious, soft, perhaps silk." He clasped his hands together, his eyes shining with artistic fervor. "Imagine! The way it would drape, the way it would move with you. It would be... magnificent."
He then leaned in, his voice dropping to a seductive whisper, his eyes dancing mischievously. "And," Taehyung added, his finger tracing a line down Jungkook's chest, "it would be so much easier to lift during intimacy, wouldn't it, Bunny Boss? So much less fuss than sweatpants." He gazed up at Jungkook with a challenging, yet utterly adoring, look.
Jungkook listened to Taehyung's request, a slow smile spreading across his face. The suggestion of a flowing gown, especially for the reasons Taehyung so charmingly hinted at, was entirely unexpected, yet utterly captivating. His dramatic darling never ceased to surprise him.
"A gown," Jungkook repeated, his voice thoughtful, his eyes holding Taehyung's gaze with a hint of amusement. "And 'easy to lift during intimacy,' you say?"
Taehyung nodded vigorously, his eyes shining with artistic conviction. "Precisely, Bunny Boss! Practicality and profound aesthetics, combined! But not just any gown. I've been thinking." He pulled back slightly, his hands coming up to frame Jungkook's shoulders, his fingers tracing imaginary lines.
"Imagine," Taehyung continued, his voice dropping to a low, seductive murmur, eyes sparkling with a fresh wave of creative passion. "Something in a rich, dark silk or velvet. Not just flowing, but with a deep, elegant neckline. Something that would truly show off... your natural beauty." His eyes flickered downwards, indicating exactly what "natural beauty" he meant.
Jungkook's breath hitched. He knew exactly what Taehyung was implying. His heart pounded, a familiar warmth spreading through him. Taehyung, with his complete lack of inhibition and his unwavering adoration, had always seen and cherished every part of him.
"A deep neckline," Jungkook said, his voice a little husky, a hint of genuine curiosity in his tone now. "Are you implying... cleavage, dramatic darling?" He raised an eyebrow, a teasing glint in his eye.
Taehyung gasped dramatically, his eyes wide. "Bunny Boss! How deliciously direct! But yes! Exactly that! You possess such magnificent, subtle curves, Bunny Boss. Why keep them hidden beneath rough fabrics? A deep neckline would hint at the profound elegance beneath, showing just enough to be utterly captivating. It would be a statement of pure, unadulterated beauty! A vision!"
He leaned in closer, his voice a whisper now, filled with genuine desire. "And I... I would love to see it. Just for me. It would be the most beautiful garment in the world, because it would be on you. And it would make you even more irresistible."
Jungkook's arms tightened around Taehyung's waist, pulling him flush against his body. Taehyung's fervent desire, his imaginative passion, his absolute honesty – it was irresistible. The thought of fulfilling this particular, highly personal whim of Taehyung's stirred something deep within him. It was a unique form of indulgence, one that bypassed material wealth and went straight to the core of their intimate connection.
"A deep-necked gown," Jungkook murmured, his lips curving into a slow, possessive smile. "For my dramatic darling. So you can admire your Bunny Boss's 'profound elegance' and 'magnificent, subtle curves.' And for the ease of intimacy, of course." His eyes glinted with amusement and something far deeper. "Consider it done, Kim Taehyung. A new item has just been added to my very exclusive wardrobe, entirely for your viewing pleasure."
Jungkook, a man who moved with quiet efficiency in all his endeavors, wasted no time. The morning after Taehyung's unique request, while Taehyung was still sleeping soundly, Jungkook made a series of discreet, highly specific calls. He didn't merely order a gown; he commissioned it.
Within twenty-four hours, a renowned couturier, known for their exquisite work with luxury fabrics and their absolute discretion, arrived from Paris on Jungkook's private jet. Jungkook provided precise instructions, detailing the fabric – a midnight-blue silk velvet that would capture light like starlight – the cut, the flowing silhouette, and the exact depth of the neckline Taehyung had so passionately described. The couturier, accustomed to extraordinary requests from extraordinary clients, worked with a speed and precision that matched Jungkook's own.
Two days later, a long, slender garment bag, treated with the utmost care, arrived back at the mansion. Jungkook personally carried it into their shared bedroom, the anticipation a quiet hum within him. He waited until evening, after their dinner, when Taehyung was lounging comfortably, already half-lost in one of his dramatic reveries.
"Dramatic darling," Jungkook called softly, pulling Taehyung's attention. He held up the garment bag. "Your request has been fulfilled. It's ready."
Taehyung's eyes widened, instantly snapping into focus. He sat up straight, his face lighting up with a mixture of excitement and profound curiosity. "Bunny Boss? Already? Oh, you are truly the most efficient provider of profound aesthetic experiences!" He practically bounced off the bed, rushing towards Jungkook.
Jungkook slowly unzipped the bag, carefully revealing the garment within. The silk velvet flowed out, a rich, dark blue that shimmered almost black in the room's soft light. It was indeed a masterpiece: long, flowing sleeves, a graceful, unencumbered cut that promised effortless movement, and a neckline that plunged in an elegant V, deep enough to hint at the subtle curves of Jungkook's chest.
Taehyung gasped. He reached out, his fingers trembling slightly as he touched the fabric. It was incredibly soft, cool, and luxurious against his skin. "Oh, Bunny Boss," he whispered, his voice hushed with awe. "It's magnificent. It's more beautiful than I even imagined." He gazed at the gown, then at Jungkook, his eyes brimming with adoration. "It's pure elegance. It's... it's you."
Jungkook's heart swelled at Taehyung's reaction. He gently took the gown from the bag. "Would you like to see it on me, dramatic darling?" he asked, a subtle challenge and invitation in his voice.
Taehyung practically vibrated with excitement. "Yes! Oh, yes, Bunny Boss! Please! Put it on! I must witness this profound beauty immediately!" His eyes were shining with a mixture of desire and artistic appreciation, already picturing his powerful, beautiful Jungkook adorned in the elegant, revealing garment.
Jungkook took the gown from Taehyung, his eyes holding Taehyung's gaze with a shared sense of anticipation. He disappeared into the adjoining dressing room, leaving Taehyung pacing the bedroom with barely contained excitement. Taehyung hummed impatiently, adjusting his own silk robe, envisioning the masterpiece that was about to emerge.
A few moments later, the dressing room door opened.
Taehyung stopped mid-pace, his breath catching in his throat. Jungkook stood framed in the doorway, transformed. The midnight-blue silk velvet gown flowed around him, a liquid cascade that clung to his powerful frame, then draped elegantly to the floor. The deep V-neckline, precisely as Taehyung had envisioned, subtly revealed the smooth, defined planes of Jungkook's chest, hinting at the strength beneath. The fabric shimmered with every slight shift of his body, casting an almost ethereal glow. He looked magnificent, a figure of ancient royalty mixed with modern allure.
Jungkook's eyes, usually sharp and commanding, held a soft vulnerability as he watched Taehyung's reaction. He saw the awe, the adoration, and something deeper, something intensely personal, reflected in Taehyung's wide, glistening eyes.
"Bunny Boss," Taehyung whispered, the words barely audible, his usual dramatic flair momentarily silenced by pure, unadulterated wonder. He slowly walked towards Jungkook, reaching out a trembling hand to touch the soft fabric of the gown. "You're... you're breathtaking. Truly. This is more beautiful than I could have ever imagined."
Jungkook reached out, taking Taehyung's hand, his fingers intertwining. He pulled Taehyung closer, his gaze fixed on his dramatic darling's face.
"You know," Jungkook began, his voice a low, intimate murmur, "when I was younger, a teenager still figuring things out... I used to have a very specific dream. It wasn't about empires, or power, or money." He paused, his thumb gently stroking Taehyung's knuckles. "It was about a particular kind of husband. Someone who would see me, truly see all of me. And love every part."
He looked directly into Taehyung's eyes, the profound sincerity in his gaze leaving no doubt of his words. "And I would often imagine, in that dream, wearing something like this. A gown. Not for anyone else, not for a public display. But just for him. For my husband. Because I thought it would make him happy. Because I would want to look beautiful for him."
He smiled, a soft, incredibly tender smile that sent a shiver down Taehyung's spine. "It was a silly, secret dream, a quiet fantasy about intimacy and acceptance." His gaze deepened, filled with an emotion that overwhelmed Taehyung. "And seeing your face now, seeing the way you look at me in this... it's exactly how I pictured his face would look. You're living out a dream for me, dramatic darling."
Taehyung's own eyes welled up with tears, not of sadness, but of profound, overwhelming love. He reached up, cupping Jungkook's face in his hands, his thumbs gently brushing his cheeks. "Oh, Bunny Boss," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "My love. My beautiful, beautiful Bunny Boss." He leaned in, pressing a soft, reverent kiss to Jungkook's lips, his heart overflowing with the knowledge that he was not just loved, but was fulfilling a cherished, secret dream for the most powerful man he knew.
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