The Escort: A Taekook Love Story, Season One

Part 38: Careful, that's Gucci

The Gala is one of many events hosted yearly by the Jeon Corporation to raise money and awareness for families, children, and communities in need of basic human services. The money raised was purposed for shelter, food, healthcare, and education.

The Gala was being held at a beautiful old and newly restored hotel. The expression of elegance and class was visible in every detail, the decorations, table settings, food, and entertainment. There were amazing ice sculptures and elegant floral displays throughout the ballroom that added wonderful touches of class to the event. This black-tie red-carpet event had the Jeon name written all over it.

There were 300 guests in attendance. The guest list was comprised of local politicians, wealthy socialites, and business associates. The Jeon Corporation's executive team were also present.

Tae's POV

I arrive at the Gala on my gorgeous man's arm. When we exited the limo, there was a media buzz as we stepped onto the red carpet and lights flashed in my face. "Just smile and look beautiful like you always do, love," Kookie whispered. Had I been in my penthouse bubble so long with Kookie that I had no idea who he was to the business world? My skin tingled in discomfort until Kookie pulls me close and anchors me. The sweetness of his touch reminded me that he was there and would care for me. I had been so absorbed with the grift, I failed to give weight to Kookie's warning over a week ago. He told me that these events can be a bit much with the media taking pictures and asking questions. My response had been to tell him that I have gone to numerous galas and walked down a red carpet or two. My focus had been on the grift. I had underestimated what a big deal this was to attend with Kookie.  

What I failed to realize was that Kookie is an influencer in his industry and what he has achieved at his age is remarkable. How had I missed this? To me, he's my Kookie and not some savvy business mogul worth billions of dollars. My love is a goddamn rock star.

I steady myself, smile big and get present in the moment. Thank God for my escort training. I stand proudly by Kookie's side as he takes in several very short interviews about the company's new growth and what's next. Kookie's incredibly clever and, after mentioning the company, he skilfully shifts the focus to the Gala and awareness of his cause. He introduces me as his date. What a decent man I have. Then an interviewer asks him a question that surprises me.

"Jungkook, what are you and Mr. Kim wearing tonight?" Kookie chuckles and then turns to me.

"You'll have to ask my boyfriend. Baby you wanna take that question?" Oh fuck. I clear my throat remembering my training about all the things to do in a very unnerving and unexpected situation.

"Uh, Jungkook is wearing Dolce & Gabbana and I'm wearing Gucci." I smile as Kookie and I pose for photos. As Kookie takes my hand and pulls me forward, a question comes from the media pool.

"Jungkook, you're always private about your romantic life. Is this the one?" Oh God, what an intrusive question, but I know it's part of the media game. It's a good thing that Kookie and I know who we are for each other. Fucking media. Kookie stops and turns. I had expected him to ignore the question like most do.

"Who I'm dating or spending time with is none of your business. You know I never talk about my love life. I'd like my privacy to be respected and I think I can say the same for Mr. Kim. However," Kookie turns and gazes into my eyes "Kim Taehyung is my boyfriend, and we are very, very serious." Shockingly right then and there he pulls me into a loving kiss. My chest lightens as my pulse quickens. I'm unable to conceal a smile that bursts wide as heat radiates over my face.

As I find my bearing and we enter the gala, everyone stands and claps. I stall as I'm taken aback with not enough training to cover this evening. I cling onto Kookie's arm tightly. "It's okay baby, I got you. Stay by my side." Kookie whispers. Yes, he has me for sure. Everyone stands until we are seated. I pull in a few quick breaths and drink my entire glass of water down in a few seconds.