Stigma Love's Algorithm [ A BTS x Reader Poly ]

Chapter 68: Clay-Stained Kisses

I laugh, nudging his shoulder. "I think you just described yourself."

He grins, unashamed. "What can I say? I am a poet at heart."

God, he's adorable.

The museum's Korean art section is where we really slow down.

Taehyung's fingers never leave mine as we step into the softly lit room, surrounded by traditional ink paintings and delicate ceramic pieces that have survived centuries.

He lets out a dreamy sigh, resting his head against my shoulder. "This is my favorite part."

I hum, pressing my lips to his hair. "Mine too."

We stop in front of a breathtaking ink painting of a misty mountain landscape, the brushstrokes fluid yet deliberate.

Taehyung traces the air with his free hand.

"Hyung, look. The artist used sumukhwa techniques here-the way the ink fades, like a memory."

I glance down at him, eyebrows raised. "You know sumukhwa?"

He scoffs playfully. "Hyung, I'm an artist. Of course I do."

I grin. "My soulmate is so talented."

Taehyung preens, nudging me with his shoulder. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Kim Namjoon."

"Oh, I know."

His laughter is soft, but his fingers squeeze mine just a little tighter.

We move through the exhibits like we belong here-like we are a part of the art, hand in hand, lingering in front of each piece like it's telling our story.

At one point, we find ourselves in front of a sculpture-one of two figures entwined in an embrace, carved from smooth, white marble.

Taehyung tilts his head, staring at it for a long moment. "It looks like they're about to kiss."

I nod, admiring the way the artist captured such tenderness in stone. "Or like they already did, and they're just... staying in the moment."

Taehyung exhales. "That's kind of beautiful."