Chapter 9: (Seokjin's pov)

Standing there, Suah's presence so close. Struggling with my thoughts, I quickly made my way out of the room. I dashed up the stairs, as i headed straight to my bedroom.

Inside, I opened the closet and grabbed my mask. My eyes landed on a blanket, and I realized she would need it after being soaked in the rain. Taking the blanket, I put on my mask and took a moment to steady myself. The mask hid my face.

With the blanket in hand, I hurried back downstairs. The house was still filled with the sound of the storm, and the curtains in the living room swayed with the wind, creating an eerie dance. As I reached the bottom of the stairs, I saw Suah, still standing in the middle of the room, her shadow visible in the curtains only.

One by one, I started to close the curtains, tying them back together. The room gradually regained its normality, the chaotic maze of fabric slowly disappearing. She still looked down, her eyes fixed on the floor, lost in her own thoughts.

As I did my chore in silence, the soft rustling of the curtains and the distant rumble of thunder were the only sounds. I finally spoke.

Seokjin: Here, take this.

I handed her the blanket, our hands briefly touching. She looked up at me, her eyes filled with sparkle and something else—something I couldn't quite decipher.

Seokjin: Let's get you settled. You must be cold.

She nodded, wrapping the blanket around herself. I led her to the couch, where she could sit and warm up. The storm outside showed no signs of letting up, and I knew we'd be stuck inside for a while.

Seokjin: I'll make some tea. It'll help warm you up.

Suah: Thank you, Jin.

I showed her the way to the bathroom and helped carry her luggage to the room I had prepared for her. She needed to change and get comfortable, and I wanted to make sure she had everything she needed.

As she closed the door behind her, I couldn't shake the feeling of frustration. She was trusting me, an unknown man whose face she hadn't seen. Anything could happen to her, yet she was being so careless.

I made my way toward the kitchen, trying to push aside my irritation. Once there, I began preparing the tea. The familiar process of boiling water and measuring out the tea leaves helped to calm my nerves.

As the water heated up, I added some sugar and milk to make it taste better than bitter. I watched the steam rise, swirling in the air like the chaotic thoughts in my mind, I was still frustrated but couldn't help.

After a few minutes, the tea was ready. I poured it into two cups, the warm, soothing aroma filling the kitchen. I carefully carried the cups back to the living room, where Suah was now sitting on the couch, wrapped in the blanket. She looked up as I approached, a small smile playing on her lips.

Seokjin: Here you go. This should help warm you up.

Suah: Thank you. I really appreciate it.

I handed her the cup and sat down opposite her. The fireplace was empty, and the room felt cold despite the blanket and tea. Wanting her to feel more comfortable, I quickly stood up and went to light the fire.

As I knelt before the hearth, striking a match and carefully placing it among the logs, I could feel her eyes on me. The fire slowly caught, casting a warm, flickering light across the room. I adjusted the logs to ensure a steady flame and then returned to my seat.

I was wearing a mask that only showed my lips, so drinking tea wasn't a problem. I took a sip, savoring the warmth that spread through me. Suah looked more relaxed now, the fire's glow reflecting in her eyes.

Seokjin: The fire should help. Let me know if you need anything else.

Suah: This is perfect, Jin. Thank you.

We sat in silence for a while, the only sounds coming from the crackling fire and the storm raging outside. It was a strange, almost surreal moment—two strangers sharing a quiet evening amid the chaos.

She smiled at me, her expression gentle and grateful, but I couldn't bring myself to smile back. There was too much on my mind, too many conflicting emotions swirling inside me. I glanced at the clock on the wall; it was already 12:30. Half an hour to my birthday.

A part of me was relieved that Suah didn’t know it was my birthday. The last thing I wanted was more attention or another scene. The thought of celebrating felt hollow, especially with everything that had happened, without my people. Birthdays were just another reminder of what I had lost, of the isolation I got, and how I would never age.

Seokjin: It's getting late. You should try to get some rest. Tomorrow, we'll discuss everything in more detail.

Suah nodded,

Suah: Thank you, Jin. For everything.

I watched as she stood up, clutching the blanket around her. As she made her way towards her room, I remained seated by the fire, staring into the flames. The storm outside showed no signs of letting up.

After a few moments, I decided to check on her one last time to ensure she was comfortable. I stood up and walked quietly down the hallway to her room. The house was eerily quiet, the only sounds coming from the howling wind and the corridor were my footsteps.

Reaching her door, I hesitated for a moment before knocking softly.

Seokjin: Suah, are you comfortable? Do you need anything?

There was a brief pause before I heard her voice, muffled but clear.

Suah: No, No, I'm alright.

Satisfied that she was settled, I turned to head back to my own room. The day was finally catching up to me, and all I wanted was to get some rest before something else happens.

Seokjin: Goodnight, Suah. Sleep well.

Suah: Goodnight, Jin. And... Sweet dreams.

I just nodded, though she couldn't see it, but still. I reached my bedroom, closing the door quietly behind me. Tomorrow was my birthday, a day that always brought sadness to my life.

As I lay down, pulling the blanket up to my chin. I wanted to ignore the significance of the day, to let it pass without any acknowledgment. I stared at the ceiling, listening to the storm, I hate, hate, hate rain.

Sleep was elusive, my thoughts refusing to quiet down. Tomorrow, I wanted to avoid chaos, to keep everything under control. But deep down, I knew that was unlikely.

Birthdays had a way of stirring up emotions and memories, and this year was bound to be no different. I closed my eyes, trying to force myself into a state of calm. I drifted into a restless sleep.

***

The next morning, I woke up to the soft light filtering through the curtains. It was 8 AM, and another day in my loneliness had begun. For a moment, I guess, everything from last night was a dream. But as I looked around, I realised The storm had passed, leaving behind a quiet stillness.

I got out of bed and made my way towards the bathroom. The large, spacious bathroom was one of the few luxuries I indulged in. I filled the jacuzzi with warm water and added some lavender-scented bath salts, hoping it would help ease my insides.

As the tub filled, I brushed my teeth and washed my face, staring at my reflection in the mirror. The mask I wore hung on the side of the mirror, waiting for me. I removed it last night I remember, that means it was not just a dream, she's here. I looked at the mask on the corner and then at my unmasked face for a moment before slipping into the warm, soothing water of the jacuzzi.

I closed my eyes and leaned back, letting the water wash over me. The jets massaged my muscles, and I tried to clear my mind. Today was my birthday, but I wanted it to be just like any other day. I didn't want to dwell on the loneliness or memories, just me.

After a long soak, I dried off and dressed in my usual attire, making sure to put on my mask. Feeling somewhat refreshed, I headed downstairs. The house was quiet, the only sound coming from the occasional creak of the floorboards.

As I walked downstairs, a familiar aroma wafted through the air, leading me towards the kitchen. Someone was cooking, and not just cooking but making my favorite breakfast: Croque Monsieur.

Curiosity piqued, I stepped into the kitchen to find Suah at the stove. She turned quickly, noticing me, and gave me a bright smile. My eyes were immediately drawn to the table, where she had set out a beautifully prepared breakfast.

Then, she moved towards the fridge and brought out a cake. My heart skipped a beat. It was the same cake from my dream—intricately decorated and unmistakably meant for a celebration.

Suah: Happy Birthday, Jin. I hope you don't mind, but I wanted to do something special for you.

Her words hung in the air as I stood there, stunned. The reality of the moment collided with the dream from the night before, leaving me speechless.

Suddenly, I felt so frustrated, so uncomfortable. I couldn’t believe this was happening to me. No one had celebrated my birthday in the last ten years. Why was she being so sweet?

The confusion and frustration boiled inside me, and I couldn’t find the words to express my feelings. Instead, I said nothing and just hummed in response, my mask hiding any emotion that might slip through.

Suah's face fell, her bright smile dimming. She sat down at the table in front of me, her eyes got filled with sadness and disappointment.

Suah: I just wanted to do something nice for you, Jin. I thought you might appreciate it.

Her voice was soft, almost hesitant, and it only made my frustration grow. I had spent so many years building walls, protecting myself from these kinds of emotions, and here she was, breaking through them with her kindness.

Seokjin: I appreciate the effort. Really, I do. But... I’m not used to this.

I managed to say, though my voice was strained. She nodded, understanding but still looking hurt.

I cut the cake and served her the first piece, trying to keep my emotions in check. She accepted it with a small, hopeful smile, and I took the second piece for myself. The simple act of sharing this moment with her felt surreal.

As I tried the food she had prepared. It had been so long since anyone had cooked for me. Since my mother left, no one had shown me such kindness, such affection. My heart ached with a deep, familiar pain. I missed my mother so much that it hurt to breathe.

With each bite, I was transported back to simpler times. I could almost see my mother in the kitchen, hear her laughter, and feel the warmth of her embrace. Suah’s cooking tasted just like hers. The flavors, the textures—it was as if my mother had come back to life, just for a moment, through this meal.

I quickly ate. I didn't want Suah to see the cracks in my facade, I didn't want her to know how deeply her gesture had affected me. The emotions inside me were too painful to share, too raw to exist. I needed to be alone.

Without saying a word, I stood up and left the room. I couldn't let her see the depth of my pain, couldn't let her in any further. As I walked away, I could feel her eyes on my back. Her silence spoke volumes, but I couldn't turn back. Not now. The pain of remembering was too fresh.

As I retreated to my room, the memories continued to assault me. I closed the door behind me, shutting out the world. Alone in the darkness, I let the tears fall, mourning the mother I had lost and the years of loneliness that had followed.

My heart broke into millions of pieces with the realization that she would never come back to me. The permanence of her absence hit me with renewed force, a pain that time had never dulled. I kept crying, bowing my head down to the floor, the sobs wracking my body. The emptiness, the ache—it all felt unbearable.

I clutched my chest, trying to hold myself together as the weight of my grief threatened to overwhelm me. The silence of the room echoed with my sorrow, amplifying the isolation I felt. I wished, desperately, for the comfort of her presence, for the warmth of her embrace, knowing it was a wish that would never be granted.

After a good cry, I felt a semblance of calm return to me. I realized I had made a mistake by walking out so abruptly. Suah didn't deserve that, especially after the effort she had put in. Wiping my eyes and taking a deep breath, I stood up and made my way downstairs.

The kitchen was quiet, except for the sound of running water and the clinking of dishes. Suah stood at the sink, washing the dishes from breakfast. Her shoulders were tense, and she seemed lost in thought.

I walked up to her, and she turned, Before she could say anything, I spoke up.

Seokjin: Suah, I need to tell you something.

She waited, her eyes searching my face.

Seokjin: Don’t cook from now on. I’ll handle all the cooking.

She looked taken aback, a mix of hurt and confusion flashing in her eyes.

Seokjin: It’s not that your cooking wasn’t good. It was... perfect, actually. But... it’s something I need to do for myself.

Her expression softened, and she nodded slowly.

Suah: I understand. I’m sorry if I overstepped.

I shook my head quickly.

Seokjin: No, you didn't. I appreciate everything you did. It's just... a lot for me to handle. But thank you.

She smiled gently, and I could see the concern in her eyes.

Suah: Okay, Jin. If that’s what you want.

I turned to help Suah finish the dishes, working silently beside her. When we were done, I dried my hands and gestured for her to follow me into the living room. She looked curious and a bit apprehensive as she sat down.

Suah: What is it, Jin?

I took a deep breath, knowing this conversation was necessary.

Seokjin: We need to talk about the house rules. There are some things you need to know to ensure we both feel comfortable here.

She nodded, listening intently.

Seokjin: First, no visitors are allowed in the house. This is very important. Second, we respect each other's privacy. That means no entering each other’s rooms without permission.

Suah nodded, absorbing the information.

Seokjin: Third, no cooking unless it’s me doing it. I know this might seem odd, but it’s something I need to manage. Fourth, no loud noises, especially at night. This house should be a quiet place.

She looked at me, waiting for more.

Seokjin: Fifth, if you need anything, please let me know in advance. I prefer to plan things out. Sixth, don’t move or rearrange anything in the common areas without discussing it with me first.

Suah seemed to understand, nodding along.

I took a deep breath and continued, feeling the weight of my words.

Seokjin: Seventh, You must be careful with the windows and gates. Make sure everything is locked properly, especially at night. This house is in the middle of a forest, and safety is paramount.

Suah nodded, her expression serious.

Seokjin: Also, there’s a strict curfew. You need to be back inside the house by 9 PM. If you’re late, it could be dangerous, and frankly, it will make me very angry. This is non-negotiable.

She looked at me shocked.

Suah: I understand, I’ll.... I'll make sure to follow the curfew.

Seokjin: Good. I need you to stay out of the forest, especially at night. It’s not safe, and I don’t want you getting lost or hurt. Please respect this rule.

Suah: I promise I won’t go into the forest.

Seokjin: And if you have any problems or need anything, tell me directly. Communication is key. I may seem strict, but it’s all for a reason. We need to keep things orderly.

Suah smiled softly,

Seokjin: Lastly, respect the mask. You’ve already seen that I wear it, and it’s for a reason. Don’t ask me to remove it, and don’t try to see my face. This is non-negotiable.

She sat back, processing everything.

Suah: I understand, Jin. I’ll follow the rules.

I appreciated her willingness to comply, even if the rules seemed strict. It was the only way I could maintain some semblance of control and order in my life.

Seokjin: Thank you, Suah. I know it’s a lot, but it’s important for both of us.

She chuckled lightly.

Suah: I’ll do my best to follow them.

I nodded.

Seokjin: One more rule, Suah. The rooms that have tags or names on them are strictly off-limits. No matter what happens or how curious you might be, never enter those rooms.

Suah: Understood, Jin. I won't go into those rooms.

Seokjin: Good. These rules are important to me.

Seokjin: And please don't leave any windows open when it's raining. I really dislike the sound and smell of rain inside the house.

Suah: Why ?

Seokjin: None of your concern, Just follow it.

She just nodded with a weak smile. With that settled, I took a deep breath. Suah seemed to understand and respect my need for structure and order.

Seokjin: Your classes will start tomorrow. Go rest for today.

Suah looked grateful but also a bit hesitant.

Suah: okay.

She stood up, gathering her thoughts, and started to walk towards the room. I took a deep sign, half of the things were sorted.