Taehyung's POV

I giggle following Jungkook into the ski lodge. As we enter, I stop in my tracks and slowly turn in a complete circle. The space is open and a bit rustic in its style yet there are elements of contemporary and modern design. It's beautiful. There are large windows everywhere with grand views of the mountains. As people are bustling everywhere I hear the most heartfelt Christmas music playing that immediately brings a smile to my face. Adults and children sit around a massive fireplace. Many with hot steamy cups of Cocoa, and I so desperately want to be there. People are chattering and moving about in all directions, and it just leaves me giddy. In the center of the room is the biggest and most fabulous indoor Christmas tree ever. I'm certain it could light up the world. It is afternoon here and I cannot wait to see it at night. I'm pulled to it like a magnet. It must have several thousand lights and countless ornaments. We have yet to check-in, and I have already made a mental note of what Jungkook, and I will do later.

As I stand in front of this grand tree, I feel a slow ache building in my heart. I miss my family so much. It seems the closer I get to them the more I feel the pain. I know that this was unavoidable and that I will see them soon, but I long for them. I will call them once I get settled. Hopefully we can do a video chat.

I look up and Jungkook is approaching the desk. It is unlikely that the young man at the front desk of the Snowy Mountain lodge in Alaska speaks Korean and I'm not sure if Jungkook speaks English. I rush forward to assist him. I'm looking forward to taking a hot shower and getting a good meal, very soon. I'm tired and edgy. Not a good combination. We've been traveling for eight hours. It's barely noon here so I well be jetlagged, but the excitement carries me, and I will crash later.

Jungkook seems to have made introductions, but he is struggling with his very limited English. I step in and take over the communication.

"Troy, did you say room, as in one room." I pull back my head and farrow my eyebrows together.

"Yes sir. You're booked in the presidential suite."

"Troy we are not a couple. We need our own space." I say this with a bite of agitation. I then remember who oversaw our reservations and he would make sure things are perfect for me. I smile thinking how he likes to spoil me. I never appreciated that because I'm so independent but now I know it is because he loves me. I pull in a deep breath knowing it will be okay. I need to be patient.

"I am sorry sir, but this is the only room available. When your reservation was made, we were sold out completely given that it's Christmas. As you can understand this is the biggest time of the year. We have been booked for months," Troy shares nervously. He's quite handsome and young. Maybe 21-22 if I had to guess. I wait and allow him to finish.

"However, at the request of our owner, he extended Mr. Choi who is a good friend of his, the presidential suite. It's the owner's private suite, sir. Our owner is the only one that uses the suite and his special guest, such as yourself and Mr. Jeon. It's very spacious and has two large private bedrooms. It has excellent views of the mountains, ski slopes and our entire little enchanted town. It is quite elegant with every comfort. Our little resort is world class. Many come for Christmas, anniversaries, and honeymoons. You will also have a private chef, housekeeper, and concierge to book all your activities.

"It has two separate bedrooms. Oh, a private chef? Can I get a massage?" I inquire as Troy nods and smiles while my excitement grows. Jungkook clears his throat and speaks.

"Tae, what is he talking about? And where is the second key?" Jungkook is frustrated as he has no idea what's going on.

"Excuse me Troy," I say as I turn to Jungkook.

"Jungkook, we have been booked in the presidential suite, it has two very nice bedrooms, and lots of other nice shit. It's Christmas and they are completely booked. But Mr. Choi made us very special arrangements," I say with a smile and uncontained excitement.

Jungkook just nods. I thought he might be upset but he appears satisfied with our accommodations.

Troy calls another employee over to take over at the desk while he shows us to our suite. He goes to take my backpack and Jungkook grabs it before he can touch it as if he's protecting a bag full of gold. Interesting I think as I follow Troy to a private elevator. Troy tells me that our room key is also used for this elevator. It will only be used by me and Jungkook and that we are the only guest on the upper level. The elevator is enclosed in glass and as we rise, I see amazing views of the mountains. I softly gasp.

I look over to Jungkook and he is looking at me. He quickly pulls his eyes away and diverts them to the view.

"Very nice," he says looking out towards the view. He has been really agreeable, and I find myself waiting for the moment he'll return to Jungkook Jackass. Yea believes that the experience with Song impacted him in a powerful way. Maybe he'll open up and share more of himself. He started earlier when he shared the joy of putting ornaments on the Christmas tree as a child with his mother. It was such a sweet and vulnerable space. I could tell it was a tough memory. He is quite closed off, but also slowly opening up. I'd be lying if I said I did not like him. Especially when he joked earlier. I like that version of him. It's scares me because each moment I'm with this version of him, I like him a bit more. I still do not trust him. Although he apologized, his judgments were really harsh. Does he treat others like that? Does he look down on the people that work for him? I believe his apology was genuine. Well, we have a few days together. I will hold my judgement and get to know him more. I'm certain he will not be able to suppress Jungkook the jerk that long.

As he stands in the elevator next to me, I can't help but feel an energy. Fuck, he is dangerously hot. I will have to be careful. It's been a long time since I've been with a man, and he could easily get my heat and more rising.

"Wow! This is nice Troy," I say as I step through the double doors of the presidential suite followed by Jungkook. Jungkook's eyes are bulging, and I can't help but think he is too cute as he immediately walks over to the view. It is apparent that the snowy mountains are king here. It is always the primary focal point. As they should be. The room is spectacular, and this suite is enormous. We see skiers zipping down the mountain zigzagging. I don't think Jungkook has ever seen anything like this view before. He looks mesmerized as his mouth is slightly open. The view is definitely an awe moment for anyone. Jungkook, looks childlike and I feel very close to him in this moment. I hope we get on well and have an enjoyable time together. Looks like we will be spending Christmas together or maybe not. I think as I remember how important his work is to him. What a pity because it would ease the sadness that grows from missing my family. I don't want to be alone on Christmas. Even if that means being with him. Who knows? I do believe in Christmas miracles. Even for him.

"Mr. Kim this town turns into Santa's village and there are tons of things to do," Troy says. "Because of the weather we have a gorgeous indoor ice-skating rink. We also have world class entertainment and an ice-skating light show. There are classes on making ornaments, wreaths, and wrapping the perfect gift. And there is world-class shopping here also. I just nod as my brain goes into fun overdrive, and I can't help but giggle.

I feel a lightness in my chest as I take it all in. What a wonderful place to be at Christmas.

While Jungkook stays glued to the view, Troy shows me the remainder of this fabulous suite. It is definitely the Apex of luxury with marble bathrooms with gold fixtures, a gourmet kitchen and private dining room with seating for 12 guests. There's also a gym and indoor private pool. Wow!

Suddenly it comes to mind what Yea said. She told me there is purpose, a reason that we are here, together. This is not coincidental. But me and Jungkook? Yes! I will make the most of this and see what purpose will be revealed. I chuckle to myself as a surge of amusement and excitement rushes through me.

However, that is quickly dissolves by what Troy shares with me.

"Uh Mr. Kim, you said you were not a couple, right?" Troy queries as I slowly nod and notice him eyeing Jungkook.

"So, uh Mr. Jeon is single?" Troy has a wide grin spread across his face.

"Uh, I'm not sure Troy. You would have to ask him. We're just travelers on the same plane." There is an immediate sting which surprises me. Why should I care?

"Could you like inquire and let me know? If it's not too much. I'd be available to show him some of the night life. Oh, and you too, Mr. Kim. We have several amazing dance clubs here with lot of nice men and women if you choose.

"Troy, my preference are men, and I will inquire for you. I will let you know. Dancing would be fun, however I'm not sure. We've already had a long day of travel."

"There is a very nice gay club on the edge of town. You will not be disappointed." His smile broadens as if he just won the lottery. Suddenly I feel so fuckin annoyed.

"Thanks Mr. Kim. Is Mr. Jeon like Chinese or something?"

"Something like what, Troy?" I say with annoyance.

"Oh, I mean like Japanese?"

"What? No Troy, he is Korean as am I."

"Oh, Korean like in K-pop!" I bit my lip to keep my mouth shut and let his offensive statement go.

"No Troy Korean as in Korea!"

I don't understand K-pop, but I like dancing to it. My God, those guys are so hot!" He starts fanning himself and I get his point and smile. He a bit flamboyant and I'm not sure if that's Kookie's type, but what do I care. I don't care. At least that what I tell myself.

"I'm really into Asians. They're like a thing, you know?"

What the fuck is he talking about? Okay, enough of his ass.

"No, Troy I did not know that. Thanks for showing us the space. It's fabulous." I quickly walk to the door, reach in my pocket and pull-out money for a tip as I try to get rid of his ignorant ass as fast as possible. He means well. He's just young and not very worldly. Probably never been outside of Alaska. He definitely doesn't know that over 18 million Asians live in the US. He's not trying to be offensive he's just being Troy, a nice guy.

"Oh no Mr. Kim. Your money is no good here. Everything is covered as presidential suite guest. All the shops, restaurants, cafes, clubs, and events."

"What? Everything? Like designer clothing?

"Yes, Mr. Kim Everything. Just show them your room key. You have like a golden ticket!" He waves as I nod and open the door for him.

"Thanks Troy, I think well get settled in and I'll let you know about tonight!"

"Oh, I look forward to it!" He says eyeing Jungkook from head to toe as I feel a rage burn in my chest. A rage I have no right to. It's not like he's my boyfriend or something. Fuck, we aren't even friends. We're barely acquaintances and 8 hours ago I hated his ass. We have a few days together in this marvelous winter wonderland and then we will go our separate ways and never see each other again. Yep, it's all good. But why does that make me sad. Separating?

I don't know about going out dancing. I'm sure we'll be tired. Then I softly gasp. Yea said I have to keep my eyes open. Maybe my special someone is here. Maybe I'll meet him before I get home to LA. Maybe I'll meet a nice man at the dance club, ice skating rink or in one of those adorable little classes making ornaments. My stomach does a flip flop as my thought goes to shopping and finding something nice to wear to the dance club tonight.

After Troy leaves, I walk over to where Jungkook is standing looking out on to the ski slope with the sweetest smile on his face but there's a sadness in his eyes. I wonder what he is thinking. Maybe he's thinking of his past or maybe he has a special someone that he wants to be with. He quickly wipes away a tear, clears his throat and turns away to avoid my glare.

"Uh Tae I guess we should pick out our rooms?" His voice is raspy, and he clears his throat again.

I don't want to make him feel awkward, so that means it's time for fun. I run to the first room. "I get first choice!" I giggle as he follows me.

"Let's see. Hmmm, very nice. Oh, there's a fireplace!" I squeal as I jump on the bed. "Hahaha! It's very soft and bouncy. I like it!" He has the biggest, sweet smile that reminds me of one of my little bunnies I set free. But he is not free, yet.

I jump off the bed and then run into the other room and do the same thing. As I bounce on the bed, I extend my hand and he slowly shake his head no and looks away as if it is too silly. But I can tell he is holding back his laugh. I see it in his eyes.

"Jungkook! Come be free with me! Hahaha! Like the bunnies!" He watches me and smiles.

"Okay, what the hell." He jumps on the bed in one leap, and I squeal with excitement. We hold hands and bounce away together in a fit of giggles. I hear his full laugh for the first time, and I just want to burst into tears. It has been pinned up inside of him, I suspect for years. We then fall on top of the bed breathing hard while trying to catch our breath. We then roll on our side and look at each other as our chest expands and heart pounds. We are inches away and I have an overwhelming desire for his lips. I quickly sit up and clear my throat.

"I-I'll take this one," I stammer.

"That was fun," he says as he sits up next to me. "I can't remember the last time I've laughed like that. Tae uh, could we do some other fun things later. I'd like to take a shower and get some lunch and do some other stuff. You can choose. I-I mean if you like." Just as fast as he came out of his shell, he retreats by looking away as his cheeks shows a rosy blush. I love this version of him. I think it may be his true self. I will not let him regress. I grab his wrist and smile at him as his eyes expand and mouth falls open. He is as surprised as I am.

"Oh yes Jungkook! I'd like to do some fun things. You know, since we are here, we might as well enjoy it. Right?"

"Yes, right!" His beautiful bunny smile returns and my tummy flutters. He is very attractive.

He leaves my room as I cover my face with my hands and drop backwards onto my bed. I think this might be his true self but what if he turns into that hateful judgmental ogre again.

I breath and settle down. Just have fun and be free with him. It's Christmas. I'll get to know him and will try hard to not judge him. Yeona said she believes he has past pain. What was so terrible that could have turned him into such a mean hateful brute. It also looks like his experience with Song shifted something in him. I relate to that and have had my own life changing experience. If we talk and I feel safe enough, maybe I'll share it with him.

I unpack my bag and lay an outfit. Everything I have is causal. Looks like a reason to go shopping.

"Yippee!"

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