Chapter 13 - Congratulations!
It's the day before Sonny's graduation. Most would be excited but in her case, she's nervous, scared, and mostly stressed. To be able to get her mind off of things, Jungkook decided to go with her to buy a graduation dress.
"I think I saw a thrift shop nearby. We can go there and see if they have nice dresses", Sonny said as she pointed to the corner of the street.
Jungkook didn't stop driving. Sonny raised an eyebrow, letting out a "WHAT THE FUDGE??"
He laughed and placed his hand on her face to shut her up.
A few minutes later, he parked in front of a store that had many clothing.
"Are you joking right now?? These are designer clothes. I can't wear designer clothes!", she gasped, not wanting to get out of the car.
"Calm down. If you're worried about the price, I know someone who works here that'll give us a discount", Jungkook said.
Both of them entered the shop and were hit by an aroma of cinnamon and fresh leaves, which is a weird combination. The sound of the door opening caught the attention of one of the employees who's the only one working there today.
"Jungkook hey!"
The employee smiled and hugged Jungkook with a huge smile on her face. Sonny raised an eyebrow and felt a bit awkward.
"It's been a while since I've last seen you. What have you been up to?", she stepped back, still a huge smile on her face.
"Nothin' new. This is Sonny. She's looking for a graduation dress", Jungkook answered.
"Ahh so you're the famous Sonny he's mentioned. I'm Minhee. Are you really stubborn?", she asked.
Sonny glared at Jungkook and punched him on the stomach, causing him to laugh.
"Hey, am I lying? You really are stubborn at times. Anyway, do you think you can help?", he asked her.
She nodded and grabbed Sonny's hand, leading her to the back where the dresses are. Jungkook followed behind and looked around.
"Alright. You're a very petite girl with really great hips so a dress that will accentuate that will look amazing on you", Minhee observed each rack that had different types of dresses.
Sonny doesn't really know how to shop for dresses. She has worn dresses but none looked good on her and she was worried about arm fat showing.
"These will do", Minhee kept grabbing dresses that thinks will look great on her.
While she did that, Sonny turned to her right and stepped forward as a black dress caught her attention. Not too girly and doesn't show a lot of skin.
Her hand reached forward to touch the material, which is very thick. A really good thing because she thinks she'll rip anything that has cheap thin material.
"If only I was the right size", she mumbled to herself.
She looked down at her hips and wondered if they're too wide. Minhee must think so.
Shaking her head, she went back to Minhee and noticed she's already putting the dresses into an empty dressing room.
"Okay, ready", Minhee smiled, opening the curtain for her.
Sonny walked in, feeling the curtain close behind her. There were about five dresses hanging on the little hooks. It took her a few seconds before trying on the first one, which is a long dark blue dress with an open back.
When she stepped out, both Jungkook and Minhee tilted their heads.
"I don't like this one", Sonny mentioned.
"Yeah it's a bit too big. Try another one", Minhee said.
Turning around, she went back in and tried on the second dress, a sparkly white one that is off the shoulders. The length goes all the way down passing her knees.
"I look like I'm getting married. It's not my style", she said as she stepped out.
"All you need is the veil", Jungkook joked.
Sonny flipped him off and walked back in, closing the curtain.
She continued trying on the dresses but didn't like any of them. So she waited until Minhee gave her a Cabernet dress with off-the-shoulder straps and a skirt that's asymmetrical. When she tried it on, it fit perfectly.
She stepped out of the dressing room, waiting to hear their response.
"You look hot!", Minhee gasped and walked around her to look at each angle.
Sonny stood in front of the mirror and tilted her head, wondering whether she really looks good or not.
"I think you should get it. This is the dress", Minhee said.
"I don't know...", Sonny hesitated, "maybe I should just ditch the dress. I bet a lot of people go in jeans and a cute shirt, right?"
Jungkook stood up from the white chair and stood behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders.
"You look stunning. And you can't disagree. Remember what we've been working on? Do you really want to do that exercise here?", he asked.
Sonny glanced at Minhee before looking at Jungkook in the mirror, shaking her head.
He smiled and said, "Great. She'll take it."
"Okay. I'll be waiting at the front whenever you're ready", Minhee smiled before walking away.
Sonny stepped into the dressing room and closed the curtain behind her. Her hands reached towards the zipper on the back...or she tried to. She doesn't even know how she zipped it up. It's quite easy zipping it up than zipping it down.
"Crap", she muttered.
"What's wrong? Are you okay?", Jungkook asked from the other side of the curtain.
"Yeah..um...is your friend out there? I kinda need help with something", she said.
"Oh, I'll go call her", Jungkook walked towards the front of the store but Minhee wasn't there.
What he doesn't know is that she stepped out for a bit to handle a frustrating phone call. So he went back and told Sonny that she wasn't there. He asked if he could help, maybe he thought she needed help carrying the dresses back.
"Actually...no", she answered.
All Jungkook could hear were grumbles from her trying to reach for the zipper. Raising an eyebrow, he got closer to the curtain and asked again, "Are you sure you don't need help?"
Sighing, Sonny gave up and lowered her voice, "I don't want you to think wrong."
"What? Why?", he asked.
"...I need help with the zipper", she mumbled quietly, cheeks turning red.
After finding out why she was acting that way, he chuckled and promised to close his eyes.
"Fine. Just make it quick", she said.
Jungkook closed his eyes and entered the same dressing room Sonny is in. She turned around and felt his hands on her back until he reached the zipper.
"You know, this is so cliché", Jungkook commented, slowly unzipping the dress.
"What do you mean?", she asked.
"Girl tries on dress, zipper gets stuck, guy comes in to help, then there's tension and some..events end up happening", he said.
Sonny blushed and elbowed his stomach, "don't even think about it, pervert."
He laughed and shook his head, "I'll wait outside."
"Yeah you do that", she glared at him through the mirror.
Sonny finished up and grabbed all of the dresses to put aside. She held onto the one she's gonna buy before stepping out of the dressing room, heading towards the front.
"Ready?", Minhee asked.
She nodded and placed the dress on the counter so she can scan it.
"The original price is $1,000 but I'll give it to you for $700", Minhee said.
Sonny's eyes widened and told Jungkook that he can't buy the dress because it's too much. But as she's saying that, he already handed her the money.
"Go wait in the car. I'll take care of this", Jungkook told her.
"But–"
"Go", he demanded once more.
Sighing, she turned away and walked out, sitting in the car with a pout on her face. She glanced over at Jungkook who's now talking to Minhee about something. She was smiling and laughing.
'Does she like him? Does he like her? Bet they do', Sonny thought.
"Hey, can you also charge for that dress please", Jungkook pointed to a black dress.
Minhee grabbed it and carefully folded it into the bag before handing it to him.
"Is this for her too?", she asked.
He glanced up from his wallet and raised an eyebrow.
"You know, I've never seen you this happy. Are you sure you're just her bodyguard?", she asked.
"What is that supposed to mean?", he asked.
"Bodyguards usually stand to the side, giving the person their space all while watching their back. You, on the other hand, are buying her two very expensive dresses, complimenting her, joking around with her...plus, I saw you go in the dressing room. Doesn't sound like a bodyguard to me. Seems like you're gaining feelings for her, am I right?", she asked, tilting her head.
Jungkook chuckled lightly before taking a glance at Sonny who was ripping out the split ends from her hair.
"How much?", he asked, referring to the second dress.
Minhee smiled before saying, "it's on the house."
"You've been surprisingly quiet", Sonny commented as Jungkook drove to her father's new place which is her grandpa's farm.
"And that's bad?", he chuckled.
"No. It's just weird because you always have something to say", she said before watching the trees out the window.
It's been a few days now that she mailed in her art profile and she couldn't be more relieved. All she has to think about now is whether she'll get the scholarship.
Moving into her grandfather's farm actually helped her not become too stressed. There's more space, it's fresh, and her room is way bigger than her old room.
"So are you excited about your graduation tomorrow?", he asked.
"I don't know. Nervous is more like it. Because that means I'm an adult now and I have to take care of adult things", she said.
"That's life", he said.
"Yeah well, I gotta focus on college now. Imma be all alone", she mentioned.
"You'll make friends over there. I'm sure of it", he said.
"Yeah right. I'll probably befriend an old professor", she said.
"This program, how long does it last?", he asked.
"Well the campus is huge and it's divided into three compartments. I'll be spending the first two years on the first compartment, two years on the second compartment and one year on the third one. Then I might transfer into an advance program that lasts a year. So I'll be pretty busy", she explained.
"Six years in total. Rose is gonna miss you", Jungkook said softly.
Sonny nodded and wondered whether she'll have time to visit. Art students usually don't have the time because they always have to come up with a project to do to keep their grades in class above average.
Around dinner time, Heidi cooked spaghetti only because Rose is in love with it and they had some garlic bread leftover from hers and Sonny's fathers date last night. Everyone was already sitting on the dinner table, including Jungkook but Sonny was still in her room.
"Is she going to come down to eat? Her food is gonna get cold", Heidi mentioned.
Rose yelled and then laughed right after startling her father.
"Should I go check, sir?", Jungkook asked.
"No. If any of us keep checking up on her every five minutes, she won't be able to trust us. She'll come down", her father smiled.
After a few minutes, Sonny came downstairs into the dining room and apologized before sitting down.
They watched as she twirled her fork on the spaghetti before hesitating to take the bite. She did it either way and ate slowly. Right when she took the bite, they began eating.
It's been like that for a few days now when they eat together. They wait until Sonny eats first, even Rose waits.
Not only that, Sonny started a food diary where she writes what she eats everyday and what time. She hated the idea at first but understood why she had to do it.
"Oh honey, I forgot we're supposed to go to town this weekend to buy seeds for the garden. If we don't, there won't be enough", Heidi mentioned to Sonny's father.
"Right. Since we're going to town, do you want to come with us Sonny? We can buy all your school materials while we're there", her father said.
"I haven't gotten in yet, dad. I don't wanna buy anything until I know", she said.
"So when are they gonna announce the winner for the scholarship?", Heidi asked.
"At the end of the week", she answered.
"Ooh, it's getting close. I'm sure you're excited", Heidi smiled.
"I guess. I'm really nervous though", she admitted.
"I know everything will be fine. From now on, no more stress for you. I promise you that", her father said as he raised his hand.
"Dad, that's something no one can promise. Things happen, sometimes at random. If we can control it, everyone in this world would be happy with no reason to become sad or angry", she explained.
"Wouldn't that be a good thing though", her father asked.
"I think life would become boring if everyone was happy 24/7. And it'll be difficult to point out who's being real with you", she said.
They all stared at her and thought she's making a good point.
After dinner, Sonny decided to take a walk outside. Heidi offered to go with her. If this was about a year ago, she would've cussed her out but they have gotten along so well these past few days.
Her grandfather's farm is quite huge and there's plenty of space to run. There are horses, pigs, chickens, and even small guinea pigs. She named one of them Buggers because it's eyes are huge and a bit cross eyed.
"It's quite chilly outside, don't you think?", Heidi asked, hugging herself as she walked beside Sonny.
"I like it. It's fresh", she answered.
They walked for a few minutes before sitting on a bench near the lake where her father loves to fish.
"I actually wanted to talk to you alone, to make sure you're 100% okay with the engagement. Because if you weren't, I'd understand", Heidi said.
"What? I'm more than okay with it. I mean, if I wasn't, I wouldn't have mentioned you moving in with us. My dad loves you, I can tell. Rose loves to be around you. And we've only known each other for a while now but I'm really glad you're here", Sonny explained.
"Really? That's great. I also wanted to talk to you about maybe wanting to be the maid of honor? The wedding isn't gonna be until two months from now and even though it's gonna be small, I really want you to be the maid of honor. Is that something you'd want to do?", she asked.
Sonny raised her eyebrows, surprised by her offer. She always wondered about her parents wedding and how in love they were at that time. Was it the same love always? Since they first met?
That's the love Sonny wants to feel. The same from start to ending.
"Of course. I'd love to be the maid of honor. I've never been to a wedding before so that's gonna be...different", she said.
"Don't worry. It won't interfere with your preparation for college. I'm really excited for this. Hopefully with the wedding and all we'll become closer", Heidi smiled.
"Yeah, I hope that too", Sonny smiled back.
They stayed there talking for a bit until Heidi felt tired. Sonny wanted to stay out a bit longer so Heidi went inside.
Sighing, she closed her eyes as she felt the wind blowing through her hair. She felt relaxed, something she hasn't felt in a while.
The future is coming and she doesn't know if she feels prepared. But one step at a time and she'll get there. College will not be easy but she's ready to face what's coming. It's time for her to be her own person.
"You're not coming in?"
Jungkook stepped closer to Sonny, sitting next to her on the bench.
"I just want to stay here for a bit before I go in", she said.
His hands rested on his lap, looking up at the stars. Ever since they moved into her grandfather's farm, yes even Jungkook, the stars appear more bright.
Sonny's father found out about where he lived and didn't like it one bit so he's staying with them permanently until he decides to move out into a much more stable home.
"Heidi asked me to be the maid of honor for the wedding", Sonny said.
"That's great. I mean, I'm not surprised. Heidi really likes you", he said.
"I know nothing of being a maid of honor. I've never been to a wedding before so I don't really know what to do", she admitted.
He let out a chuckle and crossed his arms over his chest, his muscles popping out more. Show off.
"You get to plan everything; choose decorations, help the bride-to-be with the venue, the bachelorette party, and so on. Don't worry, Heidi says you'll get help so you won't feel stressed", he explained.
"It already sounds like a lot of work. Can't back out now. Anyway, I should get some sleep. I have to wake up early tomorrow for rehearsal. Then later is graduation. Dad wants to take me out for a graduation dinner but I said no", she said.
"Why? It's a celebration for completing school", he said.
"There are other ways to celebrate. I just want graduation to be over so I can come back home", she said.
Tilting his head, he slighting shifted his body to face her.
"Sonny, you're gonna be leaving for 4+ years. Your father is just trying to make the best of it before you go", he said.
"I know but...usually he goes all out with stuff like this. Back when I won a perfect attendance award in kindergarten, he bought me two dozen roses, a chocolate fudge cake, five stuffed polar bears, and a whole new wardrobe. Just imagine now", she said.
"Hey, most people don't have parents who care as much as your father cares about you. Enjoy it", he said.
Realizing what he meant, she apologized and admitted he was right.
They stood up and began walking back to the house, heading towards their rooms so they can sleep.
Sonny woke up at 7:30 in the morning because she had to be at rehearsal at 8:10. There was a gathering of students on the football field, trying to find their spot. When they walk in, they have to be in a straight line. They formed everyone into four lines. Sonny was in the third one.
As she stood in line, she looked around and noticed someone familiar staring at her. It was Chae. She was in the fourth line.
Sonny hadn't talked to her since she was fired from the restaurant. She had to admit she was upset that she didn't defend her when she was getting fired but now that she thinks about it, if she did do that, she would've gotten fired too.
Chae offered an apologetic smile and waved. She thought Sonny would ignore her but surprisingly she didn't and waved back.
Rehearsal went on for about an hour. The principal wanted every to get it right. But what's so hard about walking in line and waiting for their names to be called?
After rehearsal, the students had to go to the student store to pick up their cap and gowns. Sonny waited impatiently but quietly as one of the students were arguing about getting the wrong size.
"Hey", Chae tapped Sonny's shoulder and smiled, "it's torture, isn't it? I don't see why we couldn't of gotten measured first so there wouldn't be any problems."
"Yeah but you know the principal. Doesn't want to spend any money on things that we can already do on our own", Sonny answered.
Chae chuckled and stood behind her to wait for her turn.
"How've you been? Noticed you haven't been in school for a few days. If it's personal, you don't have to tell me", Chae asked but didn't want to push it.
Sonny realized that she really missed her and the things they would talk about. It wouldn't be a bad idea to catch up with her.
"Wanna get lunch after this?"
"No way! Are you really the Sonny? The same Sonny who said she'd rather lick a dirty floor than be around Jungkook? What changed?", Chae asked as she took a bite from her grilled cheese sandwich.
"He taught me a lot of things and before everything that happened, I was stubborn and didn't want to listen to anyone. I respect him more now", Sonny said.
"That's great. I knew you were gonna cave. Then later on little baby bodyguards will be running around", she joked.
"Don't make me barf", Sonny smiled sarcastically.
"No but seriously, I'm really glad that you're getting along with him. You seem to shut everyone out, except me, but yeah. I see some change in you", Chae smiled.
"Anyway, did you really apply for the university in Italy?", Sonny asked, taking a sip from her ice coffee.
"Yeah, I actually got accepted. And my financial aid came through so I'll be leaving in a few weeks. What about you? I know you were planning to get that scholarship that they're giving away. Did you sign up for it?", she asked.
"Yeah, I already mailed in my art profile. They'll be sending out letters to those who didn't get it and those who are getting it. They sent in an email saying that they'll be giving away five scholarships instead of one", Sonny said.
"Oh cool. So that means you'll definitely get the scholarship. Girl, you're like the female version of Picasso", Chae said.
"That's an insult to Picasso. He's like a legend and I'm a nobody. My drawings aren't that bad. I do need to improve though", Sonny said.
She didn't get anything to eat except for an ice coffee. Reason why she isn't eating is because her father is gonna take her out for dinner and she doesn't want to ruin her appetite.
"Oh, we're gonna throw a small birthday dinner for Jungkook tomorrow. Wanna come?", Sonny asked.
"Shit, really? Man, I wish I could. I have a meeting with my counselor tomorrow to talk about what classes are available for the degree I'm going for. It's gonna be a video call but two freaking hours in front of a screen. What a bore. I'd rather go with you", Chae answered.
It would've been nice if Chae did come to the dinner party. But Sonny isn't gonna force her to miss the meeting.
They talked about what they missed and even planned for future events. They know it'll be impossible if they're both in different parts of the world but they're hopeful.
Graduation is just an hour away and Sonny has been pacing back and forth in her new dress. She's supposed to be at the school already but she feels like something is missing.
"Hey, are you ready?", her father knocked before coming in.
"I don't know", Sonny answered.
He smiled and placed his hands on her shoulders before giving her a hug.
"You look so beautiful. I'm sure your mother is so proud of you", he said.
"I just wish she was here. It doesn't feel complete", she said.
Her father raised an eyebrow before telling her to wait there. He left for a few seconds before coming back while holding a small necklace on his hand.
"This was your mother's. She called it her lucky necklace. She'd never take this off. I've been meaning to give this to you", he stood behind her and put it on her neck.
Sonny checked in the mirror, touching the necklace with a small heart amulet. Smiling, she closed her eyes while holding onto the amulet.
"Thanks dad", she smiled at him.
"Come on, you won't get your diploma standing here."
"Welcome Family of the graduating class of XXXX. Before we get started, I'd like to remind those who are standing on the benches to please sit on an empty space so everyone can see...."
Sonny is fixing her graduation cap as she heard the principal talking. Her heart is beating like crazy, even though she thinks this is not a big deal. All she has to do is walk, grab her diploma, and make sure she doesn't trip.
It's happened before. Sonny was called up to the office and as she got out of her chair, her shoelace got stuck and fell flat on her face. People called her Bloody Mary because of how much blood gushed out of her nose.
The students began walking towards the rows of chairs where they had to sit. While doing so, Sonny looked around to see if she can find her family. When she spotted her father waving like a mad man, she smiled and waved back.
Then she spotted Chae a few rows to her right. She was wearing a sleeveless long black dress and her hair had been curled. The smile on her face would get bigger as she heard her sister yelling and cheering for her.
"Now, let's begin..."
Sonny turned her attention towards the vice principal who started calling out names. Sighing, her hands tightened into fists and shook her head.
Once they called Sonny, her family cheered on. She went up on stage and shook the principal's hand before being given her diploma. It literally only took like five seconds and then it was over as she went to sit back on the chair.
Everyone threw their caps in the air even though they were advised not to. She didn't throw hers because she didn't want to lose it.
"Hey congratulations!", Heidi walked up to Sonny and hugged her before giving her a bouquet of roses.
"Thanks", she smiled.
Everyone else gathered.
"My little girl is growing up. Jeez, I'm getting old", her father said, causing Heidi to laugh but disagreed after.
Jungkook came up to Sonny while carrying Rose, a smile on her face as she held a shiny balloon.
"How does it feel knowing you won't be going to high school anymore?", Jungkook asked.
"Weird. Relieved. At least I don't have to wake up super early now", she said.
He chuckled and let Rose hand the balloon to her. Sonny thanked her and gave her a kiss on the cheek, resulting into a bunch of giggles.
They stayed there for a bit taking pictures, saving the memories to revisit much later. But Sonny doesn't want to remember high school. She doesn't even want to remember middle school. But she does look forward to her college years.
"Are you ready?", Sonny's father waited for her at the front door.
She grabbed her purse and nodded before heading out the door.
Heidi agreed to take care of Rose while Jungkook went out to take care of some errands.
"So what do you wanna eat, hm? Anything you want", her father asked, driving away from the house.
"What about that Mexican restaurant that just opened up? I've seen their menu online and it looks like they have really delicious food", Sonny said.
He's quite surprised to hear her decision in where to eat because mostly it's a bunch of 'I don't know's'.
"Alright. Mexican food it is."
When they arrived, the whole restaurant is packed with people. For them to be able to get in, they have to sign in at the front desk and the get an estimated waiting time. For them, it's about a half an hour. Her father is worried that she might not want to wait that long but Sonny didn't mind.
"I can't believe you're getting married. Do you feel like you're ready to live your life with someone that isn't mom?", she asked.
"I thought about it a lot and your mother would've scolded me if I didn't take this opportunity to become happy again with someone. You and Rose mean so much to me, to the point where if you weren't okay with me being with Heidi, I'd break it off right away. It would be difficult but I'd rather not lose your trust. So I'm really glad that you're on board with this", he admitted.
"You know, she asked me to be the maid of honor. I'm kinda surprised. We're not that close but I can see she's trying. I will try to make this wedding memorable for the both of you", she said.
Her father smiled and patted her back before being escorted inside. They were sat down on a booth near the window where there's a nice view going on.
The waiter took our order of drinks and food before going to the back to tell the staff.
"That quesadilla sounds really good. I should've gotten that", her father said.
"You know you're a huge fan of wet burritos. Plus the guacamole? You're literally gonna fall in love", Sonny said.
They talked for a bit about the scholarship and how he'll be helping her pay for rent so she doesn't have to worry about that. But Sonny didn't want to get too ahead.
"Six years you'll be gone. You're growing up too fast", he said.
"It's not like I won't be visiting. And you have Rose and Heidi so you won't be alone. And also Jungkook so you won't be around too many girls", she said.
"Should I get you a fish so you won't be alone there? Or maybe a snake. How about a pony?", he asked with way too much enthusiasm.
"A pony? Dad, you know I'll be living in a small dorm, right? And I'll have a room so I won't be alone. But I do admit being far away from you guys, it's gonna be so sad and boring. Let's not talk about sad stuff though. Where are you gonna take Heidi for your honeymoon?", she asked, changing the subject.
"I was thinking Hawaii but I feel like every wedded couple go there. I don't want to take her somewhere where everyone goes, you know. I'm still looking at a few places", he answered.
"I feel like the top few places that are common are Hawaii, Paris, Italy, Spain....I forget which other ones. See, if I get married and I'm going on my honeymoon with my husband, I'd want to go to Key Largo, Florida. Somewhere where people won't expect. Now, don't go stealing my idea", she joked.
"I would never do that. I'm glad that you're actually thinking about getting married. I want to see you settled down, not right now though. I want you to enjoy yourself right now. Obviously you found something you're interested in, you're pursuing your dreams and not giving up. That makes me very happy", he smiled at her while patting her hands together.
"Thanks dad."
After eating, they headed straight back home. Her father went into his office to finish up a few applications for the house while Sonny went up to her room. She got her food diary out and wrote down what she ate. The quesadilla with steak was really good...but she didn't finish it. Only ate half.
Sighing, she placed the diary in the drawer of her desk before sitting on her desk chair. The already wrapped present for Jungkook sat in front of her. She wondered if it was stupid to give it to him for his birthday. Usually giving birthday presents isn't her specialty. Not even good at it. Last year, she gave her father a wallet and a belt, that's it.
Jungkook gave her an art set, something that's useful for her in her career. Should Sonny have gotten a knife for him? Or maybe a taser?
"I should just sleep", she said to herself.
The next day, Sonny woke up around 11am. Everyone else is awake and had already eaten breakfast. Not her, she still wants to sleep in.
"Nini", Rose mumbled as she walked into her room while holding her stuffed elephant toy.
She poked Sonny's cheek until she woke up.
"Morning little bean. What are you up to?", she asked, sitting up to hold Rose.
"We're gonna go out. Are you coming or are you gonna be a party pooper?", Jungkook asked while leaning against the doorframe.
"Oh yeah, it's your birthday. Happy birthday", Sonny yawned, stretching her arms over her head.
"Well thanks", he chuckled. He walked in and sat down on the small couch in her room.
He eyes the present on her desk and asked what it was. Sonny's eyes widened and ran straight to it before hiding it behind her desk.
"It's nothing", she quickly said, fixing her hair.
Jungkook raised an eyebrow, trying not to laugh because he can still see the present.
"I have something for you. Stay here", he said.
When he walked out of the room, she grabbed the present and placed it in her closet.
"You didn't see anything Rose", Sonny said, getting a shrug from her as a response.
A few seconds later, Jungkook came in while carrying a small thin white box. She was curious.
"This is for you. Birthday present", he said, giving her the box, "I don't wrap so well so.."
"It's not my birthday though", she said.
"Just shut your mouth and open it", he chuckled, shaking his head.
"Fine", she sighed and opened the box, revealing the black dress that she was eyeing the other day.
She was just speechless. She didn't know what to say. He got her another designer dress that probably cost thousands of dollars.
He notice that change of expression on her face, "you don't like it?"
Sonny shook her head, "are you kidding? I kept thinking about this dress since that day. But..how did you know I wanted this one? Why did you get it? Did you spend another 1 grand? You didn't have to do that–"
"I can do whatever I want. And this is a gift so don't even worry about it", he said.
"You're gonna make my present to you look like crap. I didn't spend any money", she mumbled softly.
"You got me a present? What??", Jungkook acted surprised even though the obvious 'hide the present' didn't work for her.
"Okay yeah I did. But I think I need more time because–"
"I want to see it. It's my birthday so you have to listen to what I say", he said.
"What if you don't like it? I can get a better present. I swear–"
"Sonny, stop talking. I'm sure it's great. Now give me my present", he said, smiling at her to make her feel better.
She placed the box on her bed and walked over to her closet to get his gift. When she handed it to him, she sat on her bed and waited for his reaction, which she thought he's gonna hate it.
He opened the gift and was met with a drawing of his little sister of how she'd look like right now. It was a drawing of him and his sister. He stayed quiet for a few seconds. It made her more anxious.
"See, I knew you wouldn't like it. I can just throw this away and I can buy something else–"
Sonny was about to grab the drawings from him but he grabbed her hand and pulled her in for a hug. She didn't expect him to hug her. What she would've thought he'd do is make fun of her drawings.
His face is close to her neck and his arms were wrapped tightly around her, "I don't hate it. this is the best gift I've ever gotten. Thank you."
Her cheeks turned red and her heart started beating fast. She felt relieved that he loves the gift.
Her hands slowly wrapped around his neck, "you're welcome."
"Weeeeeeeeee!", Rose was on her stroller, yelling excitedly at everything.
Heidi's pushing the stroller, Sonny's father walked right next to her as he talked about what to get for the dinner party, Sonny and Jungkook were a few feet ahead of them.
"The bakery should be around here", Sonny said, looking around.
"So how did you find out about this place?", Jungkook asked.
"My mom and I used to buy these small chocolate chip cupcakes. It's vanilla bread with chocolate icing and on top they'd put a chocolate chip cookie with a happy face on it. We would go there once a week on a Friday because those days I would have a spelling test and I would always pass", she shared.
He smiled and tried to imagine having a close relationship with his parents.....but he couldn't.
"I trust them when it comes to pastries. They'll have the best cake for you", she said.
While Sonny and Jungkook talked, Heidi watched from behind, smiling.
"What's gotten into you?", Sonny's father asked.
"Don't you think they changed? They're much closer now. And she seems happier, don't you think?", she asked.
Her father has seen a lot of change between their relationship. They don't argue, unless it's about how much she eats a day(which is getting better). Plus, Sonny is more open with her feelings.
"Jungkook has helped a lot. I don't think she'd be like this if he wasn't around. I don't know how he does it", he said.
"Well, they are close in age. Maybe that's why. Hey, look over there! I've been trying to find another microwave", Heidi pushed the stroller towards the electronics store.
Her father told Sonny and Jungkook to buy whatever cake they want while they look around.
"What flavor are you most likely wanting?", she asked.
"I'm not sure. Maybe just vanilla. I'm not really a cake person", he answered.
"Mmm..okay how about ice cream cake? We can still get vanilla if you want", she said.
"Ice cream cake...haven't had that in years", he admitted.
"What???"
When they finally spotted the bakery, Sonny pulled Jungkook into the little shop and was greeted by an old lady.
"Mrs. Seo? Is that you?", Sonny asked.
"Yes, who's asking?", she asked.
"It's me, Sonny. Remember my mom and I used to come here when I was younger? We'd get the chocolate chip cookies", Sonny said.
"..Ah! Yes, I remember. My, you've gotten so big. You look just like your mother", Mrs. Seo smiled as she gave her a hug.
"Thanks", Sonny smiled back.
Mrs Seo glanced over at Jungkook and raised her eyebrows, "and who is this? Your boyfriend, I presume?"
"Oh, he's not–"
"My goodness, is he handsome", Mrs Seo squished Jungkook's cheeks, "you did good with this one."
He chuckled and said, "it's nice to meet you Mrs. Seo. My name is Jungkook, the birthday boy."
"What? It's your boyfriend's birthday? What a cutie pie. You get a free cupcake. I'll be right back", Mrs. Seo walked towards the back while mumbling.
"She's sweet. Was she like this with you?", Jungkook asked.
"Yeah. She seriously doesn't have a single mean bone in her body", she said.
About five seconds later, Mrs. Seo came out with a small plate that had a chocolate chip cupcake. Sonny got excited for him to try it out.
"Here you go. This was made with love", she smiled before watching as he took a bite.
His eyes widened and gave her a thumbs up.
"This is really delicious. Usually when I have sweets, they're too sweet. But this is perfect", he complimented her baking skills.
"Well thanks! A bit of a family secret. So what brings you around?", Mrs. Seo asked.
"We're planning a dinner party later on for him and we're here for a cake. Specifically, vanilla ice cream cake", Sonny answered.
"Ah, I see. That's so nice that you're buying a cake for this handsome young man. Tell me dear, are you planning on proposing soon? I'd love an invitation", Mrs. Seo asked Jungkook who was having way too much fun from Sonny getting flustered.
Both laughed except for Sonny.
"Haha, so how about that cake?", she walked away from them and towards the wide fridge she has that contains all the ice cream cakes.
There were three common ones: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. The other ones were of different flavors: peach, pistachio, rocky road, rainbow, and a few others that sound so weird but swears it's out of this world.
"So all you want is vanilla? Doesn't seem so special for a birthday. How about the coconut ice cream cake? It's still contains vanilla but also coconut with chocolate shavings", Mrs. Seo offered.
Jungkook raised an eyebrow and thought about it, "sounds good. I trust you. What do you think?"
He looked over at Sonny who nodded. So they ended up getting the coconut ice cream cake. Mrs. Seo carefully placed the cake in a box and wrapped it nicely.
They paid for the cake and thanked her for helping them out. As they walked out, Mrs. Seo yelled out, "don't forget to send me an invitation to your wedding!"
"Oh my god", Sonny sighed before walking fast.
They met up with her father, Heidi, and Rose a while later before going back to the house to decorate.
Sonny stood in her room, staring at the black dress that rested on her bed. She wondered if she should wear it. But will it look good on her? Is she the right size for it?
"Ugh, whatever", she mumbled before getting into the shower.
It took her almost two hours to get ready. She curled her hair and put on the sandals that she bought not too long ago. They were on sale and very comfortable.
Jungkook stood outside of Sonny's bedroom door, fixing his black button-up shirt. He styled his hair back while a piece was loose on his forehead. He waited for her to come out so they can go down together...because really it's for both of them. But she doesn't know that.
Once she was ready, she came out of her room as she fixed her hair. Jungkook had to take a second look, eyeing her from head to toe.
"What?...does it look stupid?", she asked, referring to the dress.
He lightly shook his head and smiled.
"You look beautiful. That dress suits you", he said, causing her cheeks to turn red.
"Thanks. I didn't think it would fit", she said, chuckling awkwardly as she looked down.
Jungkook smiled and held out his hand, "come on, they're waiting for us."
She placed her hand under his arm, "us? It's not my birthday though."
As they headed towards the dining room, her father and Heidi yelled out surprise.
Sonny was confused because Jungkook knew they were throwing him a dinner party. Then she looked at the cake and noticed both of their names were on it.
"I don't understand. My birthday passed already", she said as her father pulled out a chair for her to sit down.
"I know but we didn't celebrate it. Jungkook thought it was a great idea to mash your birthdays together. I hope it's alright with you", he said.
"I mean, I'm fine with it. Are you okay with it?", she asked Jungkook.
He smiled and nodded in response before sitting next to her. They placed birthday hats on their heads and pinned buttons on their chest that says 'Happy Birthday.'
Heidi and Sonny's father grilled some burgers before cutting the cake. Rose ended up falling asleep about a half hour after eating her Mac and cheese.
"We're not singing, are we?", Sonny asked.
"Of course they are. What kind of birthday would it be if there wasn't any singing?", Jungkook said, nudging her arm.
"Alright. Let's just get it over with", she said, playfully rolling her eyes.
So her father and Heidi began to sing. Sonny came embarrassed and tried to cover her face but Jungkook held her hands to prevent her from doing so.
"Okay, singing is done. Can we cut the cake now?", Sonny asked, pushing his hands away.
She thought Jungkook was gonna cut the cake but he placed the knife on her hand and his hand over hers so both of them can cut it.
His hands were warm and big, compared to hers. His tattoos were in display as his hand tightened around hers, cutting the cake.
They cut one for her, him, her father and Heidi. Sonny was about to take a bite of the cake but Jungkook scooped the frosting from his cake and got it all over her face, and a bit on her hair.
She scoffed, making him believe that she's angry. He was about to apologize but he couldn't since Sonny got him back. She laughed and had to get up from the chair so he won't try again.
"Alright, truce", Jungkook said, chuckling as he wiped some frosting off his face.
"Wait! Get together so I can take a picture. One for the books", her father mentioned as he took out his phone.
Rolling her eyes again, she stood next to Jungkook, him wrapping an arm on her lower back, pulling her closer. They both smiled as her father took the picture...or tried to.
He struggled because he pressed the wrong thing and turned on his flashlight, hurting their eyes.
"I think I got it", he said.
"Dad, the light is supposed to be off", Sonny said.
He figured it out a second later and took the picture. His smile widened the more he looked at it.
While they began eating their piece of cake, Sonny went into the kitchen to wash off the frosting.
She got a napkin and rinsed it with cold water before rubbing off the frosting. The parts on her hair was the hardest.
Jungkook walked in a while later, trying not to laugh at Sonny who is still struggling to wipe off the frosting from her face.
"What is this made of? Cement? No offense to Mrs. Seo", she said.
"Here, let me help", he chuckled before grabbing a clean rag, "you have to soak it in hot water and let it cool down until it's warm enough so it'll melt the frosting."
His left hand was holding up her chin while his right hand gently wiped off the frosting.
"There goes a whole hour of struggling to put on makeup", she sighed.
"You don't need make-up anyway. Your natural face is beautiful", he said.
He moved the rag down to her lips because she missed a spot. While doing that, she stared right into his eyes. Her heart began to beat quickly and her breathing became uneven. She didn't know why she was feeling like this.
Jungkook noticed her change in behavior. His eyes landed on hers, the motion of his hand slowing down. Then his eyes went down to her lips.
Never in his life of becoming a bodyguard would he ever thought about pushing his feelings elsewhere. He knew if he made a move, he'd be crossing a line that could possibly get him in trouble. That's what he's thinking yet his face would inch closer and closer to hers.
Her eyes closed, making him softly chuckle. Their lips were so close to touching.
"Guys! The ice cream on your cake is going to melt! Oh and bring extra napkins!", her father yelled.
Jungkook pulled away and eyed the paper towels that were on the counter. Sonny just scratched the back of her head, feeling her cheeks become hot.
"Cake is waiting", he said, glancing over his shoulder before going back to the dining room.
When he was gone, Sonny let out a long exhale.
"What the f–...What the hell am I thinking?"
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