Seoul Secrets

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On a silent runway, a screech of tires sliced through the stillness. Within seconds, an airplane rolled to a stop, ready to release its passengers.

Inside, you waited eagerly to disembark, a wide grin stretching across your face. Nervous energy thrummed through your hands as the flight attendant announced the landing. With a sweaty grip, you reached for your handbag from the overhead compartment and joined the stream of exiting passengers.

Stepping outside the airport, after navigating customs and claiming your luggage, you spread your arms wide, inhaling the crisp Seoul air. Closing your eyes, you let the cool breeze fill your lungs, unable to suppress your smile.

You hailed a taxi and settled inside, eager to reach the hotel. As the car sped through the bustling city streets, illuminated by the vibrant night lights, you watched the scenery blur past. Finally, the taxi halted before a magnificent hotel—a luxurious edifice you’d only dreamed of. Butterflies fluttered in your stomach as you imagined spending your stay within its walls.

With your luggage, you exited the taxi and entered the hotel, admiring its grandeur. A guard welcomed you with a respectful bow and a bright smile, which you returned with equal warmth.

Slowly, you walked down the spacious hallway, deeper into the hotel’s embrace. You stopped before the reception desk, where two elegantly dressed women greeted guests with polite gestures. They attended to you with the same courtesy and a warm smile.

“Thank you so much!” you exclaimed, flashing your brightest smile.

The receptionist squealed with delight. “You have a very beautiful smile… Please enjoy your stay!”

Blushing at the unexpected compliment, a faint blush tinted your cheeks. “I will,” you murmured, dipping your head in gratitude. A bellboy appeared, ready to lead you to your room with your luggage.

After tipping the bellboy generously, he excused himself. You roamed your gaze across the room, filled with luxurious furnishings. Your eyes landed on the plush bed, and without a second thought, you threw yourself onto it, smiling like a fool as you lay on your back.

“Finally! My dream will be fulfilled… I will be pursuing my passion with the person I love most in this world!” you exclaimed, reaching for your phone. You gazed at the wallpaper image—a picture of your beloved—and your smile never faltered.

“You know that I really, really love you… But I’m sorry, I have to keep this a secret from you… YAH! Don’t stare at me like that… It’s a surprise for you, paboya (idiot)… My cute bunny!” you whispered, then kissed the screen.

You noticed your phone was still in flight mode, so you toggled it off. Moments later, a notification popped up—a message from your beloved boyfriend, Kookie, Jeon Jungkook of BTS, the maknae of one of the world’s most popular boy bands.

VIDEO MESSAGE

*Jungkook sat before the camera in his studio, his expression unreadable.*

Jungkook: *hesitant* “Hello, Eva… How are you? I know it’s late and you must be sleeping, but I have to tell you something… I can’t keep it to myself anymore…”

Your heart pounded faster. You sat up straight on the bed, crossing your legs and cushioning a pillow on your lap. You continued the video.

You were utterly confused. What was he talking about? Was he proposing? No… I’m still too young for marriage! you thought, blushing and smiling to yourself. You replayed the video.

Jungkook: “…I think… I won’t be able to keep it to myself anymore… But the thing is, I want to break up with you…”

Slowly, your smile began to fade. You watched the video more intently, your lips parting in disbelief.

“…I know, Eva… That right now I’m sounding selfish… But I don’t think I’m feeling the same way for you like I did in the beginning… Maybe we’re not meant to be together…”

You tried to comprehend every word, but your heart resisted. Your mind processed the information, but your heart was not ready to accept it.

“…Moreover, I’ve also noticed you’ve been ignoring me lately… You talk to everyone in the group, but not me… I guess you feel the same way.”

A frown twisted your face. How could he think I’ve changed my feelings? Idiot, you thought.

“…And also, I think you’re more comfortable with Tae Hyung than me… I don’t know about you, but I know he really likes you. He once confessed it in our truth and dare game…”

Your eyes widened at the new revelation.

“…At that time, I felt jealous, but now, if I think you like him too… You both behave differently around each other… Maybe you’re better suited with Tae Hyung…”

“I know you’re going to hate me after this… But Eva, I’m really sorry… Think about what I said for Tae Hyung for once at least… And one more thing, let’s live our lives like strangers from now on… It would avoid awkwardness… Bye, Eva… I’m really sorry… I hope you find someone better and please don’t cry… Goodbye!”

END OF VIDEO

Even after the video ended, you remained in the same position, trying to process the shock.

What the hell is this guy saying? you thought.

“Maybe he’s drunk… I’ll talk to him tomorrow… Is our relationship a joke that can be ended with a video message?” you said, collapsing back on the bed, exhausted from the flight. You stared at the ceiling, lost in thought.

“Paboya! He should really avoid drinking… He really can’t handle it… I’m surely going to use this video in the future to tease him,” you muttered, refusing to accept it.

“How can he even think I’ll end up with someone else… And that too with Taehyung…” you chuckled to yourself, imagining his jealousy and the misunderstanding he held.

To you, Taehyung was simply your best friend, while Jungkook was your love. The other members always treated you like a younger sister, and you cherished their affection, especially from Jin and Yoongi, who couldn't bear to see you hurt.

After lying in silence for a few minutes, boredom set in. You looked out the window, admiring the beautiful Seoul night view, then decided to turn on the TV.

You switched it on and landed on a channel broadcasting a Live Music Award Show. Moments later, BTS took the stage, and despite being so close to them, you couldn’t suppress your inner fangirl. After their group performance, you saw Jungkook and IU performing a duet.

“YAH! They look so good together… They are my favourite collab ever,” you exclaimed, smiling like an idiot.

Then, you froze as you watched them hold hands. You fought to control the anger and jealousy building within you, trying to remain calm despite the turmoil. _____

To Be Continued…