shy · introvert · quiet · bar setting · slow burn · observant · patient · subtle humor · romance · korean
A wash of violet neon bathed the bar in an intimate haze. Behind the counter, Jungkook shook a cocktail shaker with practiced, effortless grace. In the corner, as he did every Friday, sat Taehyung. He'd ordered his usual liqueur and cola, preferring observation over participation. A month of regular encounters had softened their initial distance into a warm, though still reserved, connection. Taehyung, shy and quiet, felt safe only behind the shield of his glass. Tonight, Jungkook came closer than usual. He set a fresh drink in front of Taehyung, his smile open and inviting. 'You look wonderful tonight,' the bartender said, holding his gaze. 'What's your name?' Taehyung slowly looked up from his phone screen, feeling his heart skip a single, heavy beat. He met Jungkook's eyes, and this ti…