Chapter 5: Sparks Begin to Fly

The charity event planning continued over the next few days, and while Jungkook and Taehyung often clashed, they were starting to work together more smoothly. Taeko, who had been orchestrating their interactions with care, observed every step with a keen eye.

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After School – Event Setup Discussion

Jungkook sat at the head of the table, a meticulously drawn blueprint of the event layout in front of him. Taehyung was sprawled on a chair, casually twirling a pen in his fingers.

“The venue will be divided into sections,” Jungkook explained, pointing to different parts of the blueprint. “One for dining, another for dancing, and a third for silent auctions. Every detail must be flawless.”

“Flawless, huh?” Taehyung said with a playful grin. “You do realize people come to these events for fun, right? Not to marvel at your perfectly aligned tables.”

Jungkook’s jaw tightened. “Organization ensures the event runs smoothly. Without it, things fall apart.”

“And without charm, it’ll be boring,” Taehyung countered, leaning forward with a smirk. “Lucky for you, I’m here to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

“Lucky isn’t the word I’d use,” Jungkook muttered under his breath.

“Come on, Jeon,” Taehyung teased. “Admit it—you’d be lost without me.”

Jungkook looked up, his expression deadpan. “I’d manage.”

Taeko, sitting nearby, decided to intervene. “Why don’t you both play to your strengths? Jungkook, you handle the logistics. Taehyung, you focus on the decorations and entertainment. Together, you’ll create something amazing.”

Both of them paused, glancing at Taeko before reluctantly nodding.

“Fine,” Jungkook said. “But don’t expect me to fix your mess if you go overboard.”

Taehyung chuckled. “And don’t expect me to stand by while you turn this event into a corporate seminar.”

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The Next Morning – The Fashion Room

Taeko’s next plan was to showcase Taehyung’s talents to Jungkook, who had always dismissed him as frivolous. Knowing Taehyung had a design presentation in his fashion class, Taeko made sure Jungkook ended up there “by accident.”

“Why am I here again?” Jungkook asked, standing at the back of the room.

Taeko grinned. “You said you wanted to ensure the event looked professional. This is part of it.”

Before Jungkook could respond, the professor clapped her hands to get everyone’s attention.

“All right, everyone. Today, Taehyung will be presenting his concept for the charity event’s theme.”

Taehyung stepped forward confidently, carrying a large portfolio. “The theme I’ve chosen is ‘Midnight Elegance.’ Picture an ethereal night filled with shimmering lights, soft music, and a touch of mystery. The designs will be sleek, modern, and unforgettable.”

As he spoke, he revealed sketches of the venue decor, attire ideas for attendees, and even a design for the invitation cards. The room was captivated, and Jungkook, despite himself, found his gaze lingering on the intricate details of Taehyung’s work.

Taehyung finished with a flourish, his trademark grin lighting up the room. “And that’s how you create an unforgettable night.”

The room erupted in applause, and even Jungkook couldn’t deny the talent in front of him.

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After Class

Jungkook approached Taehyung as he packed up his materials.

“Your designs…” Jungkook began, hesitating slightly.

Taehyung looked up, surprised. “What about them?”

“They’re… better than I expected,” Jungkook admitted grudgingly.

Taehyung smirked. “Careful, Jeon. If you keep complimenting me, I might think you like me.”

Jungkook scowled. “Don’t get ahead of yourself. I just think your work is useful for the event.”

“Useful?” Taehyung repeated, crossing his arms. “You really know how to charm someone.”

Jungkook turned to leave, but Taehyung called after him. “Hey, Jeon!”

“What now?”

Taehyung’s expression softened, and for once, there was no teasing in his voice. “Thanks. That means a lot, coming from you.”

Jungkook paused for a moment before nodding curtly and walking away.

Taeko, who had been watching from a distance, grinned to himself. “Progress,” he whispered.

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That Night – Taeko’s Journal

Sitting by the window, Taeko scribbled furiously in his notebook.

“Step two: Build respect. Check.”

He tapped his pen against his chin, thinking about the next step. “Now I just need to create a moment where they can truly connect… Something personal.”

Taeko looked out at the stars, determination gleaming in his eyes. “I won’t let this family fall apart. Not this time.”

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