Chapter 6: A Moment of Truth

The charity event planning had entered its final stages. Jungkook and Taehyung were spending more time together than ever, and though they still bickered, their dynamic was starting to shift. Taeko observed every interaction carefully, knowing the next step in his plan was critical.

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Morning – School Cafeteria

Taehyung was sitting with a group of friends, casually munching on a sandwich while sketching in his notebook. His designs for the event were almost complete, and he felt unusually satisfied.

Jungkook entered the cafeteria, his sharp gaze scanning the room before landing on Taehyung. He hesitated for a moment before walking over.

“Taehyung,” Jungkook said, his tone neutral.

Taehyung looked up, startled. “Well, well. The almighty Jeon Jungkook graces me with his presence. To what do I owe the honor?”

Jungkook ignored the sarcasm and placed a file on the table. “The budget for the event. We need to finalize it by tomorrow.”

Taehyung picked up the file, flipping through it lazily. “Always so serious. Don’t you ever take a break, Jeon?”

“This isn’t about me,” Jungkook replied, crossing his arms. “Just look it over and let me know if there’s an issue.”

Taehyung sighed dramatically. “Fine, but you really need to loosen up. Life isn’t all numbers and deadlines, you know.”

Jungkook frowned but said nothing, his eyes briefly catching a glimpse of Taehyung’s sketches.

“Is that… the invitation design?” Jungkook asked, pointing to the notebook.

Taehyung blinked, then smirked. “Interested, are we? I didn’t think you cared about the creative side.”

Jungkook sighed. “Just show me.”

Taehyung handed over the notebook, watching Jungkook’s expression as he flipped through the pages.

“This is… good,” Jungkook admitted quietly, his voice laced with surprise.

Taehyung’s smirk widened. “Good? That’s practically a compliment coming from you.”

Jungkook looked up, his expression unreadable. “Don’t get used to it.”

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Afternoon – Taeko’s Plan in Action

Taeko had arranged for Jungkook and Taehyung to meet at the venue to finalize the layout. He purposely “forgot” to show up, leaving them alone.

The large hall was empty except for the two of them, the sound of their footsteps echoing as they walked.

“This place is huge,” Taehyung said, looking around. “It’s got potential.”

Jungkook nodded, checking his notes. “We’ll need to coordinate with the decorators and the lighting team. Timing will be critical.”

Taehyung rolled his eyes. “You always think so practically. Why don’t you just enjoy the moment for once?”

Jungkook paused, glancing at Taehyung. “What do you mean?”

Taehyung spread his arms, spinning in the center of the room. “This place is going to transform into something magical. Can’t you picture it? The music, the lights, the energy—it’ll be unforgettable.”

Jungkook watched him, his expression softening slightly. “I… guess it could be.”

Taehyung stopped spinning, tilting his head at Jungkook. “See? You’re capable of imagining more than spreadsheets.”

Jungkook smirked faintly. “Don’t push your luck.”

They spent the next hour discussing the layout, and for once, there were no arguments—just quiet cooperation.

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Evening – A Late-Night Walk

As they left the venue, the city lights sparkled around them. Taehyung shoved his hands into his pockets, glancing at Jungkook.

“You know, you’re not as bad as I thought,” Taehyung said casually.

Jungkook raised an eyebrow. “That’s the nicest thing you’ve said to me.”

Taehyung laughed. “Don’t get used to it. But seriously, you’ve got potential, Jeon. If you’d just loosen up, you might actually be fun.”

Jungkook shook his head. “Fun isn’t my priority.”

“Maybe it should be,” Taehyung said softly, his tone unusually sincere.

Jungkook looked at him, something unspoken passing between them. For a moment, the air felt different—charged, almost.

“I’ll think about it,” Jungkook said quietly, surprising both of them.

Taehyung smiled, his eyes twinkling. “I’ll hold you to that.”

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At Home – Taeko’s Journal

Taeko leaned back in his chair, scribbling furiously in his journal.

“Step three: Create a spark. Check.”

He grinned, satisfied with his progress. “Now it’s time to fan the flames.”

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