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The school parking lot is as chaotic as usual– squeaky shoes, soft whimpers, loud wailings, parents juggling small half-zipped backpacks, and endless chatter.
Taehyung adjusts the bag’s strap, already having a feeling that he is late. “Rinnie, baby, we’ve to hurry up.”
The small five year old whines, clutching her appa’s hand in a tight grip. She runs with her wobbly steps, fully aware that it’s her father’s fault that they’re late in the first place. And definitely the reason why her pigtails have mismatched bows, and she wears those obnoxiously red socks that she absolutely hates. “I’m running faster than you, appa.”
Taehyung chuckles, already used to the sassy replies he always receives. In his opinion, he is not really that late. Just a minute or two– or five or ten– does it even matter? He has already heard an earful from his five year old Haerin, about how time is money. A concept the school has been teaching.
In his opinion it’s not really his fault that he is late. Or well– maybe it is. But making snacks for fifteen kids, including his own daughter, is not an easy task. One may ask, why. The simple answer is Taehyung believes he needs to feed everyone, and also because cooking is a passion and baking cookies is his hobby. So genuinely, it’s really not his fault.
Soon, they round a corner, their camp bus visible from here, putting a smile on Taehyung’s face. “We’re almost the–”
Taehyung almost crashes, as his foot collides with the uneven pavement edge, expecting a nasty fall. He braces himself for the impact, to feel his head hit the floor, as his daughter would watch and complain how he is nothing but an extremely clumsy person. Though that never happens. Instead of feeling the hard ground hitting his head, he feels warm fingers wrapping around his elbow, steadying him. Saving him, literally.
Taehyung blinks. His breath caught in his throat.
“Careful.” And oh, God. Taehyung knows that voice. He turns around, face flushing in sheer embarrassment as the hot dad, Jeon Jungkook, casually tugs him. “Are you okay?”
Thank Haerin for her little giggles, or Taehyung would’ve been lost staring at the man in front of him. The man who wears a grey hoodie, casual pants, and carries a black bag pack, looking like a college student and not a father of a five year old. Taehyung clears his throat. “Thank you.”
Jungkook nods his head at him, as he walks ahead towards the bus.
“Appa falls like this every other day.” Oh God! What has he ever done to have a daughter who’s always after embarrassing him.
“Traitor.” He calls out, as Haerin runs to hold Jeon Nari’s hand, Jungkook’s daughter.
The two run off to the bus, not minding their fathers, who trail behind them.
Taehyung catches up with Jungkook, nudging his hand from his elbow, “thanks, um–that was totally, I mean, thank you for saving me from embarrassment.” Taehyung fumbles. Mentally scolding himself for being nervous, and fumbling in speaking in front of a hot dad. Or dilf. But whatever, that’s a term Jimin taught him, he is gladly away from this kind of calamity.
Though Taehyung sees Jungkook lips twitching in the smallest smiles, “anytime.”
Taehyung’s heart stutters. He smiles shyly, looking ahead, as their daughters have already reached the bus. “They’re glued to each other.”
“Pretty much.” Jungkook answers in an instant.
Haerin and Nari whisper to each other as they hold each other’s tiny hands, their teacher having to shush them and encourage them to board the bus.
“Oh good morning, Mr. Jeon and Mr. Kim.” The teacher- Mr. Jung Hosoek, greets them with a bright smile. The kind of smile little kids would swoon over. “I’m so glad you two could make it.”
“Of course.” Taehyung smiles brightly, “couldn’t miss it for the world.”
Mr. Jung sighs, nodding his head, as he writes something on his clipboard, “unfortunately though, it’s only you two here.”
Taehyung’s eyes shoot up in question. Beside him, he feels Jungkook’s mouth almost twitching to ask what the teacher means.
“Every volunteer parent cancelled.” Hoseok sighs, “some had emergencies, some important meetings, someone’s dog needed babysitting and the baby sitter wasn’t available, gosh.” The frustration is clearly visible in Hoseok’s voice as he carries on, “I’ve heard all kinds of excuses even before it hit eight in the morning.”
Taehyung feels a little upset over this. What can really be more important than their kids' first overnight camping trip? Aren’t the parents excited to see how the little ones work their way around or to befriend another parent? He feels a little taken aback, because he baked cookies for the parents as well. Although, it won’t be a problem considering the children can definitely now have two cookies.
“So it’s just us?” Jungkook asks, voice a little upset and somewhat annoyed.
“Unfortunately,” Hoseok gives them both a small smile, “which means, you’re officially my co-chaperons for the next twenty-four hours.”
Taehyung sighs, “even during lunch?”
“Yes.”
“Campfire supervision?"
“Yes.”
“Bedtime too?”
“Yes.” Hoseok laughs, “come, get on the bus.” The two of them do as said, Hoseok following behind, “also, we didn’t want the children to scatter around, so your cabins will be right next to the main dorm.”
Taehyung nods, feeling tired already, he passes by Haerin who smiles widely with one of her teeth crooked, one that happened because she fell, trying to steady her appa from falling. Funny right? Well it’s a long story,---
“It’s just us two now.”
—and one for another day.
“Yep.” Taehyung nods, “we’re to monitor fifteen five year olds now. Fifteen.”
This time, Jungkook doesn’t hold back the laughter.
“Without pay.” Jungkook agrees.
“Or,” Taehyung takes a seat beside Jungkook, already rummaging through his bag to reach for the cookies he backed this morning, “cookies as payment.”
And this time when Jungkook smiles, with all his teeth, resembling a bunny, Taehyung feels this short trip will not be as tiring as he thought.
♡ˎˊ˗
Jungkook really didn’t think he would be as lucky. He wouldn’t even have dreamt of saving Kim Taehyung from falling. Thanks to Nari who was late because she couldn’t find her favorite bottle, the one she had ‘accidently’ thrown out of the freaking window. Jungkook, obviously, being a responsible dad, had given her an earful about how it is important to take care of things that matter. And so, Nari had been upset, apologizing to her dad, even going as far as agreeing to accept any punishment Jungkook would give. Though to look like a strict yet a good dad, Jungkook had only decided to give Nari a single piece of chocolate instead of two like he always would on the weekends.
Okay, what was he talking about? Right. He is lucky. Picking Nari up everyday was a habit, but the best part about this habit was catching a glimpse of Taehyung. Even if it was for not more than ten seconds. His heart thumps faster every time he sees the man, cutely wrapped in fluffy sweaters in a cold climate, and a plaid shirt in a hot climate. For him, the time stops whenever the man speaks, if it’s to Mr. Jung or just to his daughter. He talks cutely, yet elegantly, that Jungkook can’t help but fall.
His crush on Taehyung started a while ago, to be specific, it was a rainy day. He was late to pick Nari up from the school due to the traffic, and due to his own workload. He drove faster, fear taking over at Nari being left alone waiting for him. His head played all kinds of scenarios, one starting from Nari throwing a fit for him being late to Nari deciding to walk home alone. He obviously knew Mr. Jung wouldn’t let that happen, but he’s a father. An overthinking father at that. So, it was a relief when he saw Nari, not crying or mad, just standing there holding hands with another kid of her own age.
“Hey, Lily, I’m so sorry.” Jungkook had run towards her instantly, glad that his daughter was okay, and smiling and laughing. Jungkook had always loved calling Nari by the meaning of her name. His mother adored flowers and when Nari was born, Jungkook instantly thought of his mother’s favourite flower; Lily, and ended up naming Nari, which means lily in Korean.
“Dada!” Nari smiled that day, too bright and lovely and Jungkook had to stop himself from cooing because then he saw him. Kim Taehyung, standing there with his daughter, all bright and sunny.
“Hi.” He had muttered, and Jungkook was a goner since that day. Turned out Taehyung, and Haerin; Taehyung’s daughter had decided to wait with Nari for him. And that warmed his heart instantly.
So, that’s why he says he's one lucky guy. He is obviously nervous being with Taehyung, but above all he kind of feels glad that the other parents bailed. Even if it means that he has to work extra, and well, how harmful can a handful of five year olds even be? (Extremely Mr. Jeon!)
And hence, when sitting beside Taehyung in the bus, Taehyung’s head lolls towards him, the man almost half asleep, Jungkook only shrugs his shoulders forward. “Your neck will hurt like this.”
The red he gets to witness on Taehyung’s cheeks after, Jungkook concludes, is the best ever, he really is lucky.
♡ˎˊ˗
The campgrounds are tucked between tall pines and open skies. Something that Taehyung is absolutely in awe of. Even though it’s still afternoon, he can feel the chill of the air pass through him, making him unconsciously lean a bit towards Jungkook.
They’re getting down from the bus now, Taehyung manages to rub all the sleep away from his eyes, being quite excited to be here. “Stay close, Rinnie.” He calls out to his daughter, who doesn’t even look back, already linking her hands with Nari, as they skip their steps.
“They’re fearless.” Jungkook laughs from beside him. And Taehyung is enthralled by the sound, it's melodic, and it's purely like an angel’s laugh.
“Apparently.” Taehyung sighs, ready to use one of the most useless pieces of information he learnt watching all those stupid videos on the internet, “fear is a concept that develops only when you’re six.”
“You’re kidding.” Jungkook looks at him, mouth wide open, eyes blown. It makes Taehyung laugh loudly.
“It really is a thing.”
“But Lily has been scared of bugs ever since she was one.”
“Huh.” Taehyung adjusts the bag on his shoulder, slowing a bit in his steps, “now that I think, even Rinnie is afraid of ghosts under the bed.”
“See!” Jungkook exclaims loudly, “but are you sure it’s Rinnie and not you, who’s afraid of monsters under the bed?”
“What?” Taehyung asks, confusion taking over his face. But Jungkook only snickers.
“I hear Mr. Jung calling us.” Jungkook runs away then, leaving a perplexed Taehyung behind to gasp in sheer betrayal.
“Did he just call me a coward?”
When they all gather around the restaurant to listen to further instruction by the teacher, Taehyung is bouncing on his toes. He can’t believe he is the one excited for an overnight camping trip, which is not even his. But then he sees his daughter, who is bouncing exactly as he is and he feels proud. A little ‘you taught her well’ rings in his head.
“Okay so…” Mr. Jung starts, eyes shining bright, smile so wide Taehyung feels his lips are forming a heart. “All the kids will stay in Cabin A with me, and as for parents we had booked... just a minute.” Hoseok laughs nervously, and it makes Taehyung tense. He hopes the rooms are booked properly and he doesn't have to hear ‘no room available, you have to go back’, he wouldn’t survive that statement. He would probably die if someone says that, you know like, fully dead, right in front of his five-year-old, who will probably just laugh because ‘appa is clumsy and keeps falling’, he can obviously see the future.
His train of thoughts is broken though, because Mr. Jung continues, “we were supposed to book four small cabins for the parents,” Hoseok says, and Taehyung braces himself for the next words, ready to die, “I had to cancel three of them, as we definitely wouldn’t need it. And the one that stays booked is a large cabin with two beds on each side, it’s Cabin C.”
Taehyung’s head turns towards Jungkook in an instant, who is already looking at him. Share the same room?
Oh. My. God.
Taehyung gulps. He is, as it is, nervous around Jungkook, how the hell would he manage to stay in the same room without sputtering nonsense every five seconds? He sighs audibly, almost about to ask if he can swipe places with Hoseok, because kids are surely trouble, but they’re not really as trouble as he will get in for his nonsense talks if he stays with Jungkook for mere five minutes.
“Guess we’re roommates now.” He snaps out when he hears Jungkook’s mutter, smiling at him.
“Yeah, roomie.” roomie? Seriously Taehyung! Get a fucking grip. “I mean, Jungkook.” Taehyung laughs nervously, “oh no! I just remembered I forgot to bring my toothbrush.”
Jungkook laughs, looking at his wide eyes, “I have an extra, but it’s a kid edition, always carry it around in case Nari loses her.”
“You’re a saviour, Jungkook.” Taehyung smiles, “my knight in shining armour."
“What?”
“Ugh.” see what Taehyung meant when he said he speaks nonsense, “I mean, the night is shining calmer!”
“What?”
“I think I need to go wash my fish, I will meet you in the cabin.”
“What the fuck?”
Taehyung runs away, proving exactly what Jungkook said when they got down from the bus. He’s a freaking coward.
♡ˎˊ˗
Once they’re all settled in, they’re called out at the restaurant (a big mess hall) again for lunch. The wafting smell of food hit Taehyung’s nose, making him turn all the way like a little kid in the direction of the counter in which food is being served. Jungkook almost thinks he is with sixteen kids, including Taehyung. His heart warms every time Taehyung’s ear perks up, all excited. Jungkook had no idea one could enjoy something so small like this. He laughs a toothy grin, “fan of food?”
“Who isn't?" Taehyung voices out, his voice never leaving the counter.
“We’ve to guide the kids, first, Taehyung-ssi.” Jungkook laughs at the sour expression Taehyung throws his way.
“Gosh, I was ready to jump on that Japchae.” Taehyung says, realising too late how absurd that sounds, “I mean..I’m ready to devour it.” And oh, that still sounds extremely wrong. “No, I mean..”
“I know, I know.” Jungkook laughs, “you’re ready to feast on Japchae.”
“Yeah that.” Taehyung nods, once again realising how wrongly Jungkook worded it, and ran away laughing, “yah! Jungkook! Stop teasing me!”
Okay that sounded wrong, again!
Once they all had settled down with their food, Hoseok’s voice booms in the large hall, “okay little explorers! And parents, today’s first and official activity is scavenger hunt.” The cheers at the mention of the activity was loud enough to deafen anyone, yet it was so endearing to watch five year olds be excited about something on which Taehyung can bet they don’t even know the meaning of ‘scavenger’.
“Once the lunch is done, we will all gather there,” Hoseok points towards the wide grassy clearing behind the dorms. “I will explain to you what the activity is about and also divide you into two groups.” Hoseok looks back at the parents, smiling widely, “parents will lead one group each, whichever group wins first will get two scoops of ice cream as a prize!”
The children all cheer, making the parents snort in absolute horror. They will lead the teams? Imagine kids crying because they didn’t get another ice cream scoop just because one parent wasn’t a good leader.
Taehyung looks at Jungkook, both sporting the same expression.
“Don’t worry.” Hoseok leans to whisper in their ears, “each kid will get two scoops, this was just to increase some competition.”
“What if the winning kids ask why the losing team is getting two scoops?” Jungkook asks, logic dripping his words.
“Do you think five year olds keep a count?” Hoseok gives him a bored look, as if he is already used to it. He might be considering that he is acting very nonchalant.
“True.” Taehyung claps his hand, “we can do this Jungkook.”
“Sure.”
“Sure!”
Once the lunch is done they gather around where Hoseok had asked them to. “Listen here kids.” Hoseok talks loudly, and Taehyung wonders if he is naturally loud or he has to be because kids won’t listen when spoken to softly. “You’ve to find three things before snack time; one smooth leaf, one bumpy leaf and something that smells nice. And no, Ji, your candy doesn’t count.”
The said kid pouts, trying to give puppy eyes to Hoseok but the teacher only shakes his head at her antiques. “Now in a straight line, everyone will go to each parent to see how the leaf feels like, Mr. Taehyung is holding a smooth leaf while Mr. Jungkook is holding a bumpy leaf,” Hoseok instructs, making the kids form a straight line as he guides them towards Taehyung first, and then Jungkook who stands just beside him.
“Appa!” Haerin chuckles, “don’t you need glasses for the cavanger hunt?” She asks innocently, but it's enough to paint Taehyung’s cheeks all red.
“It’s scavenger honey, and I can see clearly without glasses.” Taehyung huffs, mentally scolding himself for acting like a kid with his own kid.
“Okay!” Haerin giggles, “just don’t trip and fall somewhere.”
And before he can chide a response he hears giggles. Or let's just say, an angel's giggle. Jungkook sits there laughing at the whole conversation. “I’m not that clumsy!”
“Your daughter would definitely disagree.”
Taehyung pouts, looking away as he lets another kid feel how the smooth leaf feels.
This is definitely going to be an exciting game.
♡ˎˊ˗
The afternoon sun dipped just long enough to cast shadows across the fields. The scavenger hunt came to an end, with no team winning, because no kid was interested in finding a smooth leaf, instead they all had collectively collected rocks and brought it to Hoseok to see if they could paint on it.
Hoseok had sighed, announcing no one won, and so each team would eventually get two scoops of ice cream. This made the children let out excited gasps. Making the parents chuckle at Hoseok’s smartness.
Once they had snacks, which included Taehyung’s baked cookies, and some milk with some heart shaped sandwiches, they were all ready for a short guided walk through the nature trail a few minutes away from the dorms.
The children, as tidy as ever, form a single line as Hoseok and one of the guides lead them through the veins. Jungkook and Taehyung stay behind, keeping an eye on each little kid who tries to get distracted by every other butterfly.
Haerin and Nari walk ahead, as they collect sticks like they were natural treasure. Other kids wobble their way, water bottles hanging in their necks, and a small book clutched preciously.
Taehyung brushes the grass off his pants, making him accidentally trip on one of the logs that’s fallen on the ground. But, thanks to Jungkook who steadies him before he can completely fall and injure himself or make fun of himself in front of fifteen tiny humans.
“T-thankyou.” He stutters, he can’t believe he managed to trip two times, and every time Jungkook was there to help him. He should’ve listened to his daughter and wore those damn glasses.
“It’s no problem.” Jungkook chuckles. The sound, obviously, is melodious in Taehyung’s ears.
“No really.” Taehyung insists, “you saved me two times.”
“Well.” Jungkook looks at him pointedly, “like I said, it’s not a problem.”
Taehyung laughs, shy, “I feel like I should wear a ‘hazard zone’ sticker. Even you said I’m clumsy.”
“You’re not though.” Jungkook laughs, “I was just teasing you.”
“Come on, Jungkook.” Taehyung whines, “I tripped, twice, on air.”
“Alright.” Jungkook’s expression is suddenly serious, “maybe you’re a little clumsy.”
“See, I told you,” Taehyung sighs, “a bit clumsy but charming!” Okay, he again realises what he said too late, cheeks turning a bright shade of red.
“Huh?”
“Huh?” Taehyung questions, not wanting to repeat what he just said.
“You are.”
“What?”
Jungkook looks at him, stopping completely for a minute, “you’re charming, Taehyung.”
And if it was not for Hoseok’s voice, who asks, “parents doing okay back there? Making friends?” Taehyung would’ve absolutely tripped and fell (in Jungkook’s arms, obviously, duh).
Once they’re back from the trail, there are a few assistants who are painting as an evening activity. And the children all get excited to paint the rocks they collected earlier. They all squeal once they all have a rock in their hand, and rush towards the shade to sit and paint.
“Parents can join too!” One assistant calls out happily.
Taehyung blinks, a huge grin forming on his lips, “oh I’m so good at painting! I’m going to nail this!”
Jungkook smiles, following behind, as he takes a seat on one end of the bench, with two rocks in front of them and a few acrylic paints and brushes. Two minutes in, Taehyung somehow manages to get paint on his cheeks, which Jungkook notices.
“Taehyung.” He calls softly, the other peeking at him with innocent eyes, “you have…” Jungkook motions vaguely at his cheeks, and Taehyung’s mouth forms an ‘o’ shape.
Taehyung wipes the wrong cheek.
“Other side.” Jungkook says, a little laugh slipping out.
Taehyung huffs, tries again and still misses.
Jungkook hesitates briefly, before reaching out, thumb brushing lightly across Taehyung’s cheeks, wiping the streak clean.
The action makes Taehyung go completely still, heart thumping loudly.
Jungkook soon realises what he has done, quickly taking his hand back as if he had touched something really hot.
But Taehyung doesn’t mind, because if Jungkook hadn’t removed his hand, he would’ve turned into a puddle with all the softness he felt inside him.
“Thanks.” He mutters, looking back at the rock, which is painted in blue hues.
“Anytime.” Jungkook nods, wanting to reach out again, and this time ruffle those soft locks Taehyung has.
♡ˎˊ˗
When they all were done with dinner, they all gather around the campfire. The crackle of firewood, rows of seats lined around in a ring, kids hurdling with marshmallows stuck on long skewers.
Taehyung sits with Haerin, who is tucked against his side. Her little legs swinging in slow satisfied kicks. It feels peaceful.
Jungkook sits beside him, not too close, but close enough to share the body heat. Nari sits with him, all excited to toast marshmallows.
“Parents, you’re welcome to toast marshmallows as well.”
Taehyung brightens, helping Haerin as he toasts one perfectly, melting at its taste.
Jungkook does the same except— “dada, you burnt it!” Nari complains, looking at the now blackened marshmallow.
“It’s caramelized, baby.” Jungkook says in his defense, but Nari only pouts.
“No dada.” Nari protests, “it’s on fire.”
“I like it that way.”
Taehyung hides a smile, as he hands another skewer to Jungkook, “here, try a smaller flame, unless you want to convince your daughter you’re feeding her charcoal.”
Nari blinks at him, smiling widely, making Jungkook smile as well, “thank you Haerin’s appa.”
Taehyung laughs out at this, “your welcome, Nari’s dada.”
Once that is done, Hoseok leads all the kids to the dorm, some wobble with sleep, others pretend they’re not sleepy, yet their eyes droop. Jungkook and Taehyung follow behind, as they both tuck their daughters in bed who sleep almost instantly.
“She wears herself out with excitement,” Taehyung chuckles, gently caressing Haerin’s hair, “big heart, small body.”
Jungkook glances at them, something soft flickering his eyes. “Nari’s the same. She talks all tough, but looks for a hand to hold when the lights go out.”
There’s a pause. Not awkward, just a fragile moment, when they realise they’ve both stepped into a space neither of them normally share.
Taehyung breaks it first, “You’re really good with her.” He smiles, soft and tender, “you can tell when a parent is just a parent and when they’re actually raising. You’re the second type.”
Jungkook swallows, eyes drooping to the floor, “it’s just been me. Since the beginning.”
Taehyung looks at Jungkook now, turning away from Haerin, “no co-parenting?”
Jungkook shakes his head, “she didn’t want to be involved.”
Taehyung’s expression softens, “you’re a good dad.” He smiles gently, Jungkook looks up and catches it, his heart spreading with warmth.
“What about Haerin’s mom?” Jungkook asks.
“There was never one.” Taehyung looks back at Haerin, “I adopted her.” He brushes a stray strand of her hair, “I wasn’t sure of marriage, but I always knew I had space for someone whom I know needed a family first.” He says, proud.
“You chose her.” Jungkook smiles at him, equally proud of this decision.
“Yeah.” Taehyung looks back. “And she chose me.”
♡ˎˊ˗
It’s cold, despite the campfire, Taehyung still shivers walking back to the cabin he shares with Jungkook. His roommate for the night had asked him to go ahead as he wanted to stop by the restaurant to see if they provide any late night snacks (to adults hah). Taehyung wholly believes Jungkook only needs to throw his pair of wide eyes at the chefs, and that guy in no time would manage to be at Jungkook’s feet (okay exaggeration, but it is what it is).
Jungkook comes back sooner, with some leftover sandwiches and a small, warm carton of milk. “It might get cold later.”
Taehyung nods his head, gladly taking the food.
“This is for you though.” Jungkook nudges the milk towards Taehyung, who looks at him with wide eyes.
“For me?”
“Yeah, the lady there gave this for you, said it helps people sleep.” Jungkook nods, “it looks like you’d still be awake for a while.”
Oh.
That was unexpectedly observant.
Taehyung smiles, all shy and warm. As he reaches forward to grab the carton… or well he tries to.
Because he underestimates how far the table is and leans a little too much, and his knees slip on the blanket, making him lose his balance as the carton tilts.
Jungkook sees it all happen in slow motion, “Taeh–”
Warm milk splashes all over Jungkook’s chest, soaking his hoodie in a pale smear as it drips down on the ground.
Taehyung watches it all horrified. “Oh my God!” Taehyung panics as he rushes forward, scrambling for tissues, a towel, anything. “Oh my God! Oh my God” He keeps repeating as he dabs the towel he found on Jungkook's chest in frantic motions. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry.” Before realising what he is doing, he freezes halfway through another wipe.
Jungkook goes very still.
Taehyung looks up at Jungkook, who is already looking at him. “...hi.” Taehyung says, tiny.
The corner of Jungkook’s mouth lifts, “hi.”
Taehyung jerks back instantly, suddenly too aware, “your hoodie! You need a new one. Oh God! I can wash it, in fact I can wash it right now—”
“Hey, Taehyung.” Jungkook calls out calmly, “it’s okay, I've got a spare in my bag.”
“But this one needs to be washed.”
“You don’t have to.”
“No! I need to!”
“Okay, okay.”
“Yes. I’ll keep this one and return it to you, washed and cleaned and ironed and fold–”
“Taehyung.” Jungkook calls out again, a little laughter bubbling, “it’s really okay.”
“No! I want to make it un— unruined.”
“You want to have the custody of my hoodie?”
“Yes.”
Jungkook laughs, passing the wet hoodie to a panicked Taehyung who quickly puts it in a plastic bag before stuffing it in his own backpack.
“You really are gravity sensitive.” Jungkook smiles, says it once they’re both calm and settled down on their beds.
“Only around attractive people.” Taehyung says nervously, stilling once he realises what he said.
Jungkook goes completely silent, and for the first time since today, Taehyung sees the slight red of Jungkook’s cheeks, making him fluster inside.
He gives Jungkook a tiny smile, receiving one in an instant.
The night passes by slowly and both of them feel at ease to be here with one another.
♡ˎˊ˗
The morning air is cold. Soft mist rises from the grass. The kids all shuffle, half-sleepy, some still hugging their bags as if it’s a blanket as the teacher leads them towards the bus.
Jungkook walks slowly behind the group, Nari glued to his side as she clutches his jacket with her tiny hands. She’s still half-asleep, hair messy, eyes puffy, refusing to let go.
He doesn’t blame her. The night was long, and she had run around too much. He glances ahead, where Taehyung walks a little further ahead. Guiding Haerin who is equally as sleepy as Nari. Taehyung’s smiling through the sleepiness, talking in animated language with his daughter, and Jungkook hates how ridiculously soft the sight feels.
He had gotten so used to being beside Taehyung, even if it was just for a day. The whole day with Taehyung had felt easy and extremely enjoyable.
Today though, his daughter insists on never leaving Jungkook alone. “Dada,” she tugs at his shirt, “sit with me, I sleepy.”
Jungkook hesitates for a minute, eyes flickering to Taehyung, who glances back at the same time, a shy smile and a soft eye contact. As if they had planned to sit together, but well, dad duties first. Jungkook gives the tiniest smile back.
Nari tugs again, “dada.”
“Yes sweetheart.” He says, as he leads Nari into the bus, letting her take the window seat, as he watches Taehyung settle in his own seat.
Taehyung laughs at something his daughter says, and Jungkook never thought he would miss his co chaperon just after one night.
But he does.
Terribly so.
♡ˎˊ˗
Taehyung
Hi
Jungkook
Hello Taehyung
You texted me two days after the trip
Taehyung
You sound sad
Jungkook
Do i?
Taehyung
Yeah😛
Ive been busy with work☹️
But should we plan when to meet?
Jungkook
Meet?
Taehyung
For the hoodie….
Jungkook
Oh yeah
Right hoodie
Taehyung
Yeah😅
Jungkook
We can meet on weekend?
Theres this cute cafe
We can have dinner?
Ill text u the address
Taehyung
Works with me!
G’night Jungkook
Jungkook
Goodnight 💕
Taehyung
🩷
♡ˎˊ˗
“Rinnie,” Taehyung calls out, “these days, Jimin I tell you,” Taehyung talks like he is old, “Rinnie has been such a naughty child.”
Jimin’s laughter echoes through the room, “cut her some slack, she’s five.”
“Five and making my hair turn grey already!”
They both sit in Taehyung’s living room, drinking some tea before Taehyung leaves for his dat–uh whatever not date date, but to return a certain *coughs* Jung *coughs* kook *coughs* someone’s hoodie. Haerin has been running around since her favourite chim uncle bought her a new xylophone, and tea set. All excited to go and play with her friends. Making Taehyung yell at her to look out as she almost trips in excitement. She must’ve picked the habit from him, sigh.
“When are you leaving for your date though?” Jimin asks, sipping on the chamomile tea. Making Taehyung turn the darkest shade of red.
“It’s not a date.”
“Sure is.”
“It’s not Jimin. We’re just… friends!” Taehyung mumbles, sounding almost sad that they’re just friends. Friends who send each other pink hearts! How ridiculous.
“Then tell me why have you put make up on?” Jimin counters, “and you can just return the hoodie when you pick Haerin up, why do you need to go on a date for that?”
Taehyung looks away, “because…” he has no answer, “maybe because we thought its nice to go out as new friends?”
“Are you asking me or telling me?” Jimin asks, a smirk forming on his plump lips. One that Taehyung desperately wants to wipe. “What about the make up?”
“Can’t a guy feel like wanting to look good?” Taehyung answers, and Jimin rolls his eyes at him.
“Sure, Kim Taehyung-ssi if that’s what it is!” Jimin stands up as he walks towards the kitchen to place the cup in the sink, Taehyung follows behind, “all the best for your date which is not a date!” Jimin walks out, “Rinnie, come here let’s play!”
He leaves Taehyung in the kitchen, more confused than ever. “It really isn’t a date…even though I wish it was.” Taehyung mumbles to himself, sighing as he gets ready to leave.
♡ˎˊ˗
Taehyung spots Jungkook first, sitting by the window, wearing a light blue shirt, hands folded, hair a bit messy, maybe due to wind, or maybe because he has been touching it too much while waiting, and looking extremely like a dream. Definitely, an angel.
Taehyung opens the cafe door, the chime indicating his presence, making Jungkook look at the door, and smile as he waves his hand. Taehyung copies the action, making a quick walk to take a seat in front of Jungkook. “Hi.”
“Hey.” Jungkook smiles softly, “you found the place okay?”
“Yeah.” Taehyung smiles back, “though the traffic absolutely hated me.”
This draws a laugh out of Jungkook, pushing a glass of water towards him, “I ordered water for you, since I don’t know what you drink.”
“Thank you,” Taehyung says softly, looking around the cafe. It’s warm and cozy and quiet, tucked in the corner of the city, not too bright, but enough to feel like at home. “You come here often?” He asks a minute later.
“Sometimes,” Jungkook nods, “after school drop offs, it's quieter in the mornings.”
Taehyung nods his head, “I like places with people. Not too loud, just– lived in? You know? Where you can hear laughter that makes your day feel a little bit less empty.”
Jungkook hums, “that makes sense for you.”
“For me?” Taehyung tilts his head.
“Yeah.” Jungkook nods, “you feel like someone who fills spaces, not in a heavy way.” Jungkook shakes his head, “you make the room feel warmer.”
Taehyung doesn’t know what to reply to such a compliment, so he just looks down and smiles, cheeks heating up a bit.
The waiter comes by, and they order as normal conversation flows between them. It starts from simple how their daughters are to how they weren’t as naughty as their daughters when they were kids (that’s a big fat lie tho). They talk about all things they can think of, school, office, and the annoyances of parenting.
When they’re almost done, Jungkook wipes his hand with a napkin, taking a small breath before saying, “so… the hoodie?”
Taehyung blinks at him. As if he doesn’t really understand what Jungkook is talking about. Before freezing completely and realising, “oh, fuck.”
Jungkook tries his best not to laugh. “You forgot?”
Taehyung hides his face, shaking his head violently, “I ironed it! I folded it! Kept it right next to the door, yet…” He whines, “I forgot to bring it with me.”
This time Jungkook doesn’t hold back the laughter, fondly at the way Taehyung speaks. “That’s okay, Taehyung.”
Taehyung groans, “gosh how can I forget something so important?”
“Well.” Jungkook nods, “you remembered me at least.”
“Of course, I did.” Taehyung chuckles. “I think I will have to just give you the hoodie next time.”
“Next time, huh?”
“Yeah.” Taehyung shies away, “this feels nice, familiar.” He takes a sip of his water, keeping his tone extremely neutral as he speaks the next sentence, “if I think about it… it’s kind of a date.”
Jungkook looks at him, shy but relieved. “It could be… if you want it to be.”
Taehyung swallows, cheeks warm, yet his voice comes out sure and confident. “Yeah, I want it to be.”
And Jungkook, who thought he can never even have such a beautiful human in his dreams, smiles all toothy, like a five year old who has been given a chocolate after a long school day.
“Okay.” He murmurs, “it’s a date.”
They walk together to the parking lot. Side by side, shoulders brushing against each other just the slightest. And every time it happens, Taehyung’s heart soars with unknown butterflies.
They pause near the parking row.
“So,” Taehyung rocks on his heels, “thank you for the company.” company? Seriously Taehyung! He scolds himself mentally, “and uh, for not roasting me alive when I forgot the hoodie.”
Jungkook’s lips curve in a soft smile, “I thought about it.” Then before Taehyung can speak, he adds, quieter, “but you looked too cute when you panicked.”
Taehyung blinks. He doesn’t even need fake blush at this point. Jungkook is more than enough, “oh.” There’s a silence, a warm kind, and Taehyung tucks his hands in his pockets to stop fidgeting. “I had a good time.”
Jungkook looks back, eyes gentle, “me too.”
Taehyung clears his throat, “next time, I promise to bring the hoodie.”
Jungkook hums, “I don’t mind waiting.”
Taehyung smiles, a little bashful, "yeah, but if I take too long you might think I’m pretending to keep asking you on…” he stops abruptly, realising what he’s about to admit.
Though Jungkook’s eyebrows lift up in realisation, “asking me on..?”
Taehyung exhales slowly, looking away, “asking you on dates.”
Jungkook smiles softly, “I don’t think I’d mind that either.”
A slow beat. Two.
And they’re leaning in. Both looking at each other expectantly.
Except a door slams loudly somewhere far, startling them both. Taehyung laughs under his breath, tucking a hair behind his hair. “Drive safe?” He says, voice gentler.
“You too.”
They take a tiny step closer. Just enough for Jungkook’s cologne to hit Taehyung’s nose. Not knowing exactly how to say goodbyes. So Jungkook dips his head, shyly, “goodnight, Taehyung.”
Taehyung smiles in return, “goodnight Jungkook.”
They walk to their cars, going separate ways, yet there is a big smiles on their faces concluding it is their best day.
♡ˎˊ˗
Taehyung
Good morn
This is me trying to start convo with
‘Hey did I embarrass myself yesterday?’
Jungkook
Morning tae
No you absolutely didnt
Taehyung
Thank u
I had fun last night btw
Jungkook
Me too
You’re easy to be around
Taehyung
Im gonna need a min after that
Bec my heart needs to sit down
Jungkook
😂
Did i say something intense?
Taehyung
Yes
Im a simple man
Someone calls me easy to be around
And im already knitting matching sweaters
Jungkook
Matching sweaters huh?
Taehyung
Don’t tempt me
I own yarn
Jungkook
Okay u adorable human being
Taehyung
⚰️⚰️
♡ˎˊ˗
Taehyung
Random question
What r u doin friday night?
Jungkook
Depends on why ur asking? 👀
Taehyung
I know a pasta place…..
Just around the corner
Good pasta
Its got plates and chairs
Its a restaurant
Heh
Jungkook
Are u asking me out on a date?
Taehyung
Depends..
Are u saying yes?
Jungkook
Yes!
♡ˎˊ˗
The pasta place feels amazing. There's a wafting smell of garlic and basil in the air. The light glows softly, casting shadows over the wooden tables. Though, Taehyung keeps fidgeting nervously.
“So…um” Taehyung starts, “I had no idea you liked pasta, I just asked you on a whim.” He smiles sheepishly. Fork twirling in his spaghetti.
“I do.” Jungkook smiles, amused that Taehyung is nervous. “I like Italian food.”
“Me too.”
The conversation flows easily henceforth. Taehyung once again, forgetting ‘accidently’ the hoodie. And this time, Jungkook does roast him, for twenty seconds, before he folds when Taehyung gives him the puppy eyes, the ultimate weapon. They pay their bill as they both walk out of the restaurant.
The place isn’t too far from Taehyung’s house, so Jungkook insists he walks him, despite Taehyung’s protests.
“It’s starting to get really chilly.” Taehyung murmurs, as they walk side by side, though this time Jungkook is extremely close, and with their shoulders brushing, their pinkies brush as well.
And Taehyung almost thinks, Jungkook has grabbed his hand.
Almost.
Because Jungkook does grab his hand, softly intertwing their fingers together, glancing at Taehyung shyly, “are you cold?” He asks instead, and Taehyung smiles shyly.
“Not anymore.”
The walk is short as they both reach sooner than expected.
“That’s me.” Taehyung smiles, nervous, “thank you for dropping me, you really didn’t need to do that–and,” Taehyung rambles, without giving Jungkook any chance to speak, “and, I really enjoyed, but next time–”
And that’s all it takes for Jungkook as he leans in, quickly pecking Taehyung’s lips, nervous as he does the action, leaning back a bit to observe Taehyung’s reaction.
The other goes completely still, before Taehyung reacts, bringing both his hands up, circling them around Jungkook’s neck as he kisses him, softly. Pulling Jungkook closer.
Jungkook smiles in the kiss, as he holds Taehyung’s waist, tilting his head to deepen the kiss. They kiss feverishly, yet it is soft, the night sky casts a soft glow of their shadows, as they both bask in the moment. Leaving only to breathe, and then kissing again because one kiss doesn’t feel enough.
“I like you.” Jungkook breaks the kiss, to breath this down Taehyung’s ear, softly kissing his cheek.
Taehyung giggles, all cute. “I like you too, Jungkook.”
Jungkook smiles, pulling back to take a good look at Taehyung’s face. He tucks a stray strand behind his ear, “so another date?”
“And many more.”
They both laugh, leaning in to kiss again. This time passionately.
As lovers.