After the humiliating encounter in the cafeteria, Jungkook stormed out of the university building, his face flushed with embarrassment and anger. The whispered laughter of the students still rang in his ears, their mocking eyes following him as he fled the scene. He could feel the remnants of the spilled food sticking to his clothes, the cold sensation making his skin crawl.
Reaching the nearest restroom, he locked himself inside and braced his hands against the sink, his head hanging low. Taking deep breaths, he tried to calm the erratic beating of his heart. He splashed cold water on his face, hoping it would wash away not just the mess but the humiliation as well. His reflection in the mirror stared back at him, lips trembling, eyes filled with unshed tears.
"I can't let them get to me," Jungkook muttered under his breath, gripping the edges of the sink so tightly that his knuckles turned white. He took a moment to compose himself before stepping out, shoulders squared, determined not to let the day's events break him any further.
Meanwhile, Taehyung was at his company, immersed in work. As the CEO, he was known for his cold demeanor and sharp intellect. His employees regarded him with admiration and a hint of fear, knowing that he was not a man to be trifled with. He sat at the head of the conference table, his piercing gaze scanning the faces of his team.
"Our goal is to create an app that not only simplifies daily tasks but also enhances user interaction. I want innovative ideas that set us apart from competitors," Taehyung stated, his deep voice commanding attention.
One of his junior developers, Minho, hesitated before raising his hand. "Sir, what if we integrate AI features to personalize user experiences based on their habits and preferences?"
Taehyung nodded slightly, intrigued. "That's a solid concept. But how do we ensure privacy protection?"
A discussion ensued, and Taehyung listened intently, offering sharp critiques and occasional praise. By the time the meeting concluded, his team was buzzing with excitement.
"You really inspired them today," Jisoo, his assistant, remarked as she walked beside him.
Taehyung merely shrugged. "They needed direction."
As he made his way to his office, a strange unease settled in his chest. His mind drifted to Jungkook. He hadn't seen him since the morning, and the thought of the younger Omega's defiant eyes flashed in his memory. With a sigh, he pushed the thought aside. It wasn't his concern. At least, that's what he kept telling himself.
Jungkook arrived home late in the evening, exhaustion weighing on his shoulders. The moment he stepped into the mansion, silence greeted him. He threw his bag onto the couch and made his way to his room, trying to shake off the emotions still clinging to him from earlier.
Sitting on his bed, he hugged his knees to his chest. He knew he should eat, but the thought of food only reminded him of what had happened. His stomach twisted in discomfort.
Taehyung arrived home much later, loosening his tie as he stepped inside. The house was eerily quiet. He glanced toward Jungkook's room, his instincts as an Alpha kicking in. Something felt off.
After a moment of hesitation, he made his way to the closed door and knocked softly. "Jungkook?"
No response.
Frowning, he opened the door to find the younger curled up on the bed, facing away from him. The dim light cast shadows over his small frame, making him look even more fragile.
Taehyung sighed, stepping closer. "Did something happen?"
Jungkook stiffened but didn't turn to face him. "It's nothing."
Taehyung wasn't convinced. He could smell the faint remnants of distress in Jungkook's scent, though it was masked by his stubborn silence. He didn't press, knowing Jungkook would only push him away further.
Instead, he sat down on the edge of the bed. "You should eat."
Jungkook swallowed hard, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm not hungry."
Taehyung didn't argue. Instead, he reached out, hesitating for a brief moment before gently placing his hand on Jungkook's shoulder. It was a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes.
For once, Jungkook didn't pull away.