7 - Dinner for two

I rush around the kitchen, flipping the steak in the pan while keeping an eye on the potatoes roasting in the oven. The sauce simmers, thickening just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Everything has to be perfect.

The table is already set—white plates, polished silverware, folded napkins. A bottle of champagne chills in the fridge, while fresh strawberries sit in a glass bowl, their vibrant red color catching the soft kitchen light. I have even put on some background music, something slow and romantic. All that's left is lighting the candles.

I exhale, trying to push down my nerves. This isn't just any dinner. It's my way of making up for the last fight. Soyoon was right—I've been distant, distracted. I want to show her that I care. That I'm willing to put in the effort.

Just as I turn off the stove, I hear the front door open. Footsteps echo down the hall, and then Soyoon appears in the doorway, still in her work clothes. She looks exhausted but raises an eyebrow at the sight before her.

"Wow, Jungkook, what is going on here? What did you do with my husband?"

I smirk, pouring champagne into two flutes. "Haha, very funny, darling." I hand her a glass. "I want to make up for last time. You were right. I was careless... an idiot. But I'm going to change that—starting tonight."

She studies me for a moment before taking the glass. "Thank you for surprising me. I appreciate it." She takes a sip and sighs. "But today was exhausting. I really need a shower before dinner, if you don't mind."

"Of course," I say with a small nod. "Take your time. I'll be waiting at the table."

As she disappears upstairs, I turn my attention back to the dining area. I light the candles, dim the overhead lights, and carefully plate the food. Everything looks good. The steak is cooked perfectly—medium rare, just how she likes it.

I take my seat and wait.

And wait.

Minutes pass. The candles flicker, casting long shadows across the table. The food starts to cool. I check the time on my phone.

She's taking a long time.

A knot tightens in my stomach. Is something wrong? Has she changed her mind? Does she think this whole thing is ridiculous?

Or worse—is she upset again?

I sigh and stand up. There's only one way to find out.

Taking the stairs two at a time, I reach our bedroom door and push it open. The room is dimly lit, and the bathroom door is slightly ajar. But Soyoon isn't in there.

Instead, she's sprawled out on the bed, fast asleep. A towel is loosely wrapped around her, her damp hair fanning out on the pillow.

I run a hand through my hair and exhale.

Well... at least I tried.

Quietly, I grab a pillow from my side of the bed and walk to the guest room. Maybe next time.