26

25. Only You

The days and months flowed seamlessly, completely drowning in each other as their connection deepened with every passing moment. The seasons transformed, from spring to summer, from rainy days to the arrival of autumn. Throughout this, their bond remained unbroken, an eloquent testament to how completely they had immersed themselves in one another. Jeon Jungkook's life underwent a profound shift since the interview call, a change he couldn't refuse, thanks to Taehyung's persuasive encouragement. After receiving that call, within a few days, he found himself in a studio, fielding a barrage of questions about his art and his journey, leaving him to explain where he had been all this while.

Taehyung actively embraced his role in supporting Jungkook, going the extra mile, driven by the belief that his artist will one day be recognised for being immensely talented.

No doubt how Taehyung fully deserved the credits to discover this artist for the first time and became his first praiser, continuously appreciating him and continued to stand by his side when Jungkook's first vocal interview graced the pages of a prestigious annual art and fashion magazine, exposing the artist to a wider audience. Honouring Jungkook's earnest request, the interviewing team refrained from printing his pictures, focusing instead on showcasing his art gallery and the sold-out masterpieces, each with a significant and costly value. Jungkook, in the interview, eloquently described each piece, igniting a fire of admiration and curiosity around his artistic creations. Under the pseudonym 'Artist JK,' Jungkook's identity remained concealed, with deliberate avoidance of his personal pictures. This decision aimed to ensure that his artistic prowess takes centre stage, not any personal recognition. Jungkook's desire for fame was to come through his talent, not from him as a person.

The interview undeniably went successful, with Taehyung cheering from a distance from Jungkook's chair on the opposite side, providing a reassuring presence for Jungkook. The unwavering encouragement from his constant supporter, Taehyung, played a crucial role in restoring Jungkook's confidence throughout the interview. Jungkook had no such thoughts about the interview but Taehyung seemed very excited and it could be evident through his constant discussions, optimistic encouragement, and unceasing compliments. Taehyung's enthusiasm became a driving force, creating a positive atmosphere and boosting Jungkook's morale in the lead-up to the interview.

In a week's time after that interview, the magazine was published, and Taehyung couldn't contain his excitement as he rushed to show Jungkook the achievement. The reviews and responses poured in, each one priceless, with Taehyung's reaction standing out as the highlight. The impact extended beyond the pages, with the exhibition and auction authority witnessing a surge in demand for Jungkook's paintings, solidifying his status as an impressive and influential artist admired by many. His secret identity was much of a mystery and a keen interest of the public to keep them hooked to always stand up for their attention and his art was indescribable in its diversity, ranging from urban creations to authentic vintage styles, from Goddess vibes on canvas to a club of girls holding wine. Jungkook effortlessly navigated every style with a touch of goodness, making each piece stand out and remain recognizable. His portfolio was a testament to his unmatched skills and undeniable talent. The best part of them was how they were diversely unique but at the same time you could tell they shared a connection with one another because to Jungkook all of his creations were a part of him and he always tried to leave his essence in them which stood out prominently everytime.

And this is how Jungkook's life caught its pace, leading ahead towards the doors of success, one after another paintings were being sold out within a matter of few days and Jungkook relentlessly painted more and more.

Despite numerous magazines and channels dying to feature artist JY in their studios, Jungkook didn't view it as mere fascination. Content with the simple life he cherished, he, nonetheless, appreciated the opportunities he received—credits for which were rightfully attributed to Taehyung, his steadfast supporter.

Taehyung had transcended his ordinary life into something very extraordinary, from his personal life to professional.

While the influence of success was undeniable, Jungkook's lifestyle remained unchanged. He continued teaching at the school with his little bunnies, occasionally surprising Taehyung with dinner dates and outings in the expansive natural fields, showcasing his commitment to the simplicity he valued in his life. For Jungkook, the essence of life lay in cherishing moments with loved ones, regardless of achievements or material growth.

Jungkook made sure to share the news of his recognition with his parents, who had always been proud of him from the beginning. In due time, Jungkook shared with his mother about Taehyung's eagerness to meet them who were just as eager to meet him, but Jungkook found it very difficult to arrange time to see them before holidays as his life suddenly got busier. Being understanding of the situation, Jungkook's mother didn't mind it at all but continuously sent them blessings and Jungkook, with the assurance in his heart, looked forward to the day when his two families—biological and chosen—would eventually meet, bridging the worlds that held a special place in his life.

As the seasons shifted, many things changed, but Jungkook's love for Taehyung remained unwavering, perhaps even growing deeper and more intense. Taehyung embraced these changes, taking pride in having the extraordinary artist all to himself, relishing the evolving journey of their shared love.

Taehyung respected Jungkook's desire for privacy, appreciating the benefits of keeping their relationship hidden, allowing Jungkook to maintain his usual lifestyle. While there were moments when Taehyung wanted to showcase what he owned, he still found the real thrill and fun in the concealed nature of their relationship, savouring the intimacy it provided.

As time passed, their romance intensified, marked by a growing transparency in expressing feelings and thoughts between them. The mutual understanding between them became the cornerstone of their connection. Despite spending so much time together, the depth of their bond persisted, and they remained captivated by each other, refusing to get over each other.

Just like this, it was an ordinary day of their extraordinary life. Jungkook, immersed in his art, dedicated his time to a sculpture he had been meticulously crafting for days. He had worked on different parts of the sculpture separately, planning to merge them together once every distinct part was ready to be assembled together.

In the midst of an afternoon of autumn, the casements stood wide open in the artist's home, allowing the reddish-brown and yellow dead leaves to dance in the air with every gust of wind. Taehyung occupied a wooden chair in front of Jungkook’s, his elbows were on the table as he idly chewed the tip of his pencil, his gaze fixed on Jungkook, who lavished more attention on the piece of clay than on him. Despite the still-chilly day, Jungkook managed to exude a captivating aura with his hair styled in a messy bun, wearing a tank top that showcased tattoos on his well-defined arms. His attention remained immersed in the creation before him, seemingly oblivious to the gaze of his loverlorn bird, Taehyung. The artist was busy designing features on a piece of clay in front of him, handling every detail carefully with his tools while Taehyung sat with his eyes fixed on Jungkook working right in front of him. The artist had handed his boyfriend a sheet and pencil to trace a sketch design, letting him work on his pending project. Sometimes he would become more of a teacher and less of a boyfriend which Taehyung didn't approve of.

Despite being engrossed in his previous task, the brunet found himself growing increasingly frustrated. The longing for Jungkook's attention intensified, causing him to abandon his initial activity.

"Kookie, are you done?" Taehyung asked and the artist loosened his frown of concentration to look up at the cute brunet, blowing air on his permed bangs out of annoyance.

"Ah… almost done, baby, stay still. Did you finish your sketch?" Jungkook asked but Taehyung looked down at his sheet, he had just drawn scribbles of Jungkook's tattoos on it.

"I'm bored now. This is such a boring task to do." Taehyung said, defeatedly putting down his pencil to stand up and approach Jungkook to cling on his back, who chuckled at his endearing action. Taehyung let his chin rest on Jungkook's shoulder, clinging on his back while Jungkook kept sitting on his stool, continuously working on his piece of art.

"Kookie, you can do it later. I'm so bored." Taehyung whined softly, being a sucker for his attention so badly.

"It's almost done." Jungkook gave assurance which he had been giving for so long and Taehyung seemed so tested.

"You have been saying this for so long. It's not finished at all!" The brunet whined after backing away, sulking like a child. He withdrew the affection he was giving as a result of his anger which definitely faxed the artist, aiming to steal his affection back again.

"Aww, come here baby." Jungkook turned around on his twisting stool, extending his arm to catch Taehyung's hand who backed away, still sulking.

"You don't wanna come?" Jungkook asked playfully and Taehyung, looked away with puffy cheeks, making Jungkook squeeze his eyes and smile in pure adoration.

"Okay then if you don't wanna come, I'll continue with my work." Jungkook purposely turned around again to work on his piece to tease the brunet more.

"Oh why would a world famous painter wanna pay his attention to me now?" Taehyung said in a dramatic tone full of enviousness. His boyfriend chose the piece of clay over him, how cruel of him. Attempting to walk away, Taehyung was swiftly halted by Jungkook, who caught his wrist and pulled him into a warm embrace. Back hugging his sulking partner, Jungkook playfully showered Taehyung's cheeks with kisses, offering a sweet apology. Despite the initial attempt to stay mad, Taehyung couldn't resist giggling, succumbing to the affection and attention he was receiving.

"Stop!" Taehyung yelled repeatedly, tickled under those kisses but Jungkook chose to stop only when he wanted to. Jungkook gently turned Taehyung around, cupping his face in a tender gesture.

"Look at these cheeks, so round and puffy all of a sudden, huh?" Jungkook asked in a soft tone, basically how people would use it for a baby. Guided by Jungkook's soft voice, Taehyung felt a giddy warmth, but playfully maintained puffy cheeks, allowing Jungkook to indulge in squeezing them.

"I guess I'll need to add more clay." Jungkook spoke later and Taehyung frowned in confusion, contemplating what he just said.

"More clay?"

Jungkook gently turned Taehyung's head, revealing the half-done sculpture before them. To Taehyung's surprise, the clay bore a resemblance to his own face, crafted with meticulous detail by the hands of the artist who found inspiration by the one he loved—Taehyung.

Taehyung's eyes widened, his mouth falling open in astonishment. He released Jungkook's grip and approached the table to get a closer look at the piece of clay. The front portion, previously unseen, bore an uncanny resemblance to his own ethereal features, leaving him in awe of Jungkook's artistic skill and the heartfelt sentiment behind the creation. Although there were modifications needed for the hair and neck, the completed face left Taehyung in awe of the skillful artistry, appreciating the intricate details captured by Jungkook's talented hands.

Jungkook simply stood behind him, enjoying the span of his reactions unfolding.

"W-what? Were you sculpting me all this while?" Taehyung asked out of amazement and Jungkook simply hummed.

"Who else then? Of course my one and only." Saying this Jungkook aimed for another back hug, embracing his Taehyung who was left speechless.

Surprising Taehyung, Jungkook had been attentively observing him all along, capturing his essence in the clay. The dedication of the artist always remained unmatched. As Taehyung continued to admire the sculpted piece, Jungkook expressed his affection with soft kisses on his neck.

"This is… this is prettier than I am." Taehyung whispered after a while and Jungkook broke the embrace to turn him around, holding him by his waist.

"It was just a glimpse of your unmatchable beauty, Tae, not your fault though. You just don't see yourself the way I do." Jungkook whispered and the brunet was touched deeply, overwhelmed with emotion, all Taehyung could do was to respond with a tender kiss.

Jungkook's words held truth; indeed, Taehyung rarely had the chance to see himself the way Jungkook did. Acknowledging this, he felt incredibly fortunate to have someone who observed and celebrated his essence with such love and artistic dedication, making him feel like one of the luckiest people in the world. With their lips moulding together with supple movements for a kiss, Taehyung was falling into him more and more with every second passing by. Filled with joy, Taehyung cherished the privilege of being the one to hold this extraordinary artist and to be cherished by him which he wishes stays the same forever but sometimes forever is just not meant to be.

Write a comment ...

Dippy

Show your support

I thank everyone who supports me on my journey of writing, wishing you all the greatness in the world. ❤️

Recent Supporters

Write a comment ...