Hope you all enjoyed your Christmas weekend!I went out and spend my time with my family. Today I binged Iron Man with my bestie all day. He heHere's another chapter. Many might have caught on the clue I left in the last chapter. Everything is revealed in this. TW: Fights, mentions of sex trade, club scenes and killing

***

To the outside world, Club Red Velvet celebrated its status as Russia's economic elite. Their security would easily compete with the international airports. It was exclusive and expensive, well known for its security and notoriety with access to a lavish dining room, three well-equipped bars, and dance floors. With live entertainment and trained dancers, it was one hell of an experience for anyone.

No visitor was allowed inside with weapons while armed guards were guarding each exit. One of the security guards checked Jimin, who eyed him with a boring look on his face. Jimin, Taehyung, and Seokjin were dressed for the occasion.

The club was a neutral zone for any gang member and they weren't allowed to fight inside. If they did, they'd be thrown out. He didn't mind the pat-down and lifted a brow when the guard's hand lingered too long around his ankle boots.

The guard left him to check Taehyung. Jimin never went anywhere without a weapon. Even now, he had two weapons strapped to his body in places only he knew. Not that any of them would ever find that.

The club was spacious yet crowded. He headed directly to the VIP section. Occupying one of the sectional couches, he scanned his surroundings.

The music suddenly stopped and the crowd's excited murmur reached him. The lights dimmed, leaving them under a reddish glow of the lights. His eyes were trained on the dark stage where he noticed some movements.

"What can I get you, sir?" A waiter approached them.

Taehyung placed the orders while Jimin scanned the crowd, his eyes zooming in on the owner of the club, differentiating the scum easily. Suddenly lights flooded the stage, falling over at least ten dancers clad in glamorous outfits. Upbeat music boomed through the speakers followed by a sensual voice that demanded attention.

His gaze snapped to the stage. He crossed his legs as he watched the performance unfold. It was a stunning performance, he'd give them that. The dancers were on fire right from the start, so was the female singer, belting out the lyrics combined with heavy movements. It stood out to Jimin because the performance was nothing like that he had witnessed in any other clubs.

It was sensual, yes. But there was more. It was artsy and he could tell the singer was passionate. He could feel it in her voice and movements. The power with which she commanded the audience was incredible. He looked around, noticing no one batted their eyes, watching her with extreme interest.

Sometime during the performance, the waiter brought in their drinks. A full bottle of premium whiskey with a bowl of ice. The waiter poured their drinks, handing them one glass each. The ambiance was good and Jimin couldn't help but think Jungkook would enjoy this. Perhaps, they could even hit the dance floor.

His thoughts were on all the times he would tease Jungkook with random dance partners, relishing the attention the younger one always gave him. It felt like everything has happened recently. The not-so-subtle glances Jungkook often sent his way, those meaningless fights and banter to just get his attention, those intense staring. His baby was just so precious.

Jimin sipped the drink, feeling the familiar murderous rage once more. It was several times worse than when his father took Taehyung. His best friend wasn't hurt this badly, yet Jimin killed everyone involved. His fist clenched on his thigh and Taehyung squeezed his knee once as if sensing his rage.

Two performances later, Jimin was still immersed deeply in his thoughts and the performance when he felt someone slip into the seat beside him. He noticed who it was in his peripheral vision.

"Park Jimin, what a surprise!" the man greeted. "Like what you see?"

Jimin flicked his gaze to the man and forced a smile. The fake one he reserved for the majority of the assholes in his life. He shrugged, his gaze going back to the singer. Nikolay Vladislav, the owner of the club was a man in his late fifties but still looked every bit lethal.

"Hope you'll be here at this weekend's exclusive auction," he continued. "This is one of our biggest in decades."

"Or so I've heard," Jimin replied. "Never understood what's so special about Club Red Velvet's auctions. Finding virgins isn't a big deal."

Nikolay chuckled. "Right." He inched closer. "Maybe our virgins have more to them than the others could offer."

Taehyung scoffed. "Come on, Mr. Vladislav. What's so special about them that we can't get otherwise? What makes them stand out?"

The man grinned. "Well, what if I told you we offer pedigrees?"

"A pedigree?"

Jimin turned his head to meet his gaze. He did not like the sound of it. The term wasn't new to him but it churned his gut with disgust. He didn't let it show on his face though.

In their business, pedigree meant a descendant from a well-known family. It could be a daughter or son of a politician or a famous businessman or someone high on the social ladder.

A sly smile stretched his lips. "Yes, a pedigree. Our Club isn't just famous for the virgin auctions, Mr. Park. We are famous for our pedigree."

Jimin scoffed. "I still don't see the hype," he said instead. "I've slept with a fair share of pedigree without having to buy them at auctions. Last week I was with the Italian Prime Minister's daughter. It isn't that hard, Mr. Vladislav. I still don't see what the hype is all about."

It was only a friendly dinner while they discussed business. The bastard didn't have to know that.

The man regarded him for a long moment. He then turned to face the stage and crossed his legs at the knee. "Have you ever thought how it would feel to have your enemy's offspring as your sex slave?" His eyes darkened and his lips lifted into a sneer. "Fuck your hatred out of them and flaunt them in front of their beloved daddies," the man continued.

Taehyung snickered beside him. Of course, Jimin knew. Who else would know better than him? After all, he'd been fucking Jungkook for a few months now and he loved flaunting him in front of his beloved father. Only they fucked each other for entirely different reasons.

"Once they're a part of Club Red Velvet, there's nothing any of these gangs can do. You must surely know better than most, Mr. Park."

Jimin clenched his jaw. Red Velvets were a part of the crime syndicate and it was agreed in the council long ago that no gang would interfere with their business. The conversation, however, was going in the right direction. He was here to find more about Jeon Hyewa. His focus was to find where she was and if she was still associated with the club.

"We haven't had an item in Venus ranking for two decades," Nikolay continued. "I'm not sure if you're aware of this. A Venus is an offspring of a crime lord while an Aphrodite is an offspring of a politician. Others are easy to come by. But Venus, not so often."

Jimin swallowed. "So you have one?"

The man grinned. "We do. Maybe it'd motivate you a little if I told you a little story. Twenty-eight years ago, we had Venus. Her father was the Triad's mob boss and mother a Korean." The man turned his entire body toward Jimin, leaning closer. "Guess who bought her? Jeon Jungwoo of the Dragons."

Jimin's head whipped toward him and he showed a little surprise to make it believable.

Nikolay looked pleased with his reaction. He laughed. "He never intended to marry her you know. She was his little secret. A secret he loved to flaunt in front of the Triad's mob boss. She was his slave. But then he slipped. She gave him a son and he married her to keep his status. Who doesn't want an heir to their throne?"

Jimin's heart raced. He looked to the stage. The song had changed to a slow one, the dancers and the singer had changed their clothes. "He divorced her. What's more? Why is this of any importance to me?"

The public didn't know of his connection to Jungkook. The underbosses who had attended the meeting had cleverly kept their mouths shut.

Nikolay grinned. "Oh, there's more, Mr. Park. Jeon sold her when he learned she was pregnant with a girl for the second time." His smile was sadistic and Jimin wanted to smash his fist on his face, breaking every facial bone and reshaping it. Then he grasped what he just said. "He didn't just leave her. He sold her."

Jimin's throat went dry, his mind racing. He didn't like where this was headed to.

"Heard all about your latest scuffle with Jeon. That was one hell of a fight," Nikolay said. "Heard you broke his bones and he was in hospital for weeks. Words spread like wildfire you know. I also know how you snagged all those big buyers. Imagine having a Jeon pedigree as your sex slave."

Fuck!

Jimin almost leaped on the bastard. Taehyung subtly put a hand on his thigh, patting it twice.

"That right there, Mr. Park, is a Jeon. Our Venus—the most expensive one." He turned toward him, pointing a finger toward the stage. "Not to mention that one is hella talented. Beautiful, isn't she?"

Jimin's blood ran cold as the singer Nikolay pointed at. It was the same singer, who owned the stage as if she was born to be there. She was now holding onto the mic, singing a sad ballad. Her voice held a longing and invoked unfamiliar emotions in his chest.

"You're lying. No one knows where Jeon Hyewa is."

Nikolay boomed with laughter. "Then you weren't looking in the right place," he quipped. "She was sent right back to me when Jeon threw her away. She delivered a girl—a beauty just like her you see."

Jimin's heart was beating louder and he was grateful for the loud music for once. He wasn't someone to experience these types of emotions. He was always levelheaded in situations like this. But even for him, this situation was extremely unsettling.

To learn the origins of Jungkook's mother was one thing, but to learn the fate she was subjected to by the hands of her husband, the father of the child was horrifying. Jimin hadn't expected such vileness from Jungwoo.

He never liked the man. When the Dragons flogged him and exiled him from the gang, he'd asked to keep an eye on him. The man had fled and went to Japan, where he had settled in an estate away from all the ruckus.

Jimin had let him be because he didn't want to be the cause of his lover's father's death. But now, he wasn't sure anymore. The man had signed his death warrant the moment he learned what he subjected Hyewa to, but he'd make it even more painful now that he knew who the next Venus was.

Nikolay gestured with his hands and the singer sauntered toward them, never once missing a beat or a step. She was beautiful indeed. Now that he looked closer, he could see her resemblance with her brother. As if on cue, the music ended.

"Serve the drinks," Nikolay ordered.

The woman, now Jimin, known as Jungkook's sister, put the mic aside on the table and went to pour their drinks. Her gaze was trained on the drink and she didn't dare to meet their gaze even while serving the drinks.

"This is Park Jimin of the Cobras," Nikolay said. "He's also one of the valuable and respected members of the Bratva."

She still didn't meet his gaze but he noticed the subtle clench of her jaw.

"Stay with them and serve them well. Maybe...you might have a chance to go back to where your mother came from."

With that, Nikolay walked away. The singer stepped back and clasped her hands in front of her as if waiting for his next command. He'd done enough research before coming here, so he knew no one was allowed to touch the women here, especially the ones going for auction.

The only reason Nikolay allowed her to serve his drinks must be to increase her allure and thereby hope to increase her price during the auction. He was, after all, a billionaire and one of the important people in the underground society. Jimin sipped the drink to hide his anger and reclined in his seat with an uncaring expression.

"What's your name?" Taehyung asked, placing the empty glass on the table and gesturing at her to fill it.

She moved to focus on the task. "Venus," she replied, a tone lacking any kind of warmth or emotion.

"Your real name," Taehyung replied. "The one Hyewa gave you."

Her movements halted and Jimin saw the first crack in her impassive mask. "Jeong-seon," she answered after a moment and finished pouring the drink.

"Jeon Jeong-seon." Taehyung hummed. "Nice name."

"It's Kim Jeong-seon," she corrected with a bite in her tone and Taehyung whistled low.

"Hot-headed just like him," Taehyung commented.

Her gaze shifted for the first time and if looks could kill, Taehyung would be dead now. But as soon as it came, the emotion was gone from her gaze. She averted it, scrunching her nose once. The action reminded him so much of his Jungkook.

"You know Jungkook is just like you," Jimin said and noticed the way her nostrils flared and eyes widened. "He'd clench his jaw when he is angry and scrunch his nose a little. He wouldn't show his anger even if there's a storm brewing inside him, no one would ever know unless they're searching for these subtle signs."

She ground her jaw and if it wasn't for the music, he might have been able to hear it. Then she scoffed, breaking out of character. "Oh, you wouldn't know a quarter of what's going on in my mind now, Park," she hissed under her breath, reaching for his empty glass and snatching it unceremoniously.

Jimin being amused was an understatement. She had the same fire as Jungkook, even addressing him as Park just like him.

"If I can, I'd gladly sink that knife you have hidden inside your ankle boots down your throat, twist it until I'm sure you're dead."

"Shh..." Taehyung hissed. "Mind your words, love. You're digging your grave."

She scoffed, pouring the drink. "They wouldn't touch me. I'm worth billions." Her voice was smug. "I'd have died a hundred deaths if it wasn't for my worth." She handed the drink to him. "Maybe they wouldn't touch you too since they know you're one of the only ones who could afford me."

"Wow..." Taehyung huffed.

"You seem to know quite a lot about me, sweetheart." Jimin smiled.

"It's a necessity when you're involved deep in this shit," she quipped. "I saw the news. It just hurts me more that the man who killed my brother is right in front of me and there's nothing I can do about it. All I can do is to sit here and play happily." She smiled and Jimin noticed the sheen of tears brimming in her eyes before she blinked it away. "I bet you're extremely happy."

"Where is your mother?" Taehyung asked.

"Why? You want to kill her too?"

"No. Just wanted to tell her that her daughter should show more respect to her future brother-in-law. We can't have you planning our Jiminie's death every time we are in the same room, can we?" Taehyung replied smoothly.

She gaped at them, eyes going round. "You have gone mad."

"Or you have failed to read between the lines," Jimin said, eying behind her to see one of the guards approaching them. "I'll be back for the auction." He stood knowing they were overstaying their welcome. "Tell your mother to keep an eye on the news tonight."

With that, he drained the glass, threw a couple of bills on the table without counting, and knew it had more tips than the waiters normally received. They were already leaving when the guard approached.

Jimin paid him no heed as he left the club with Taehyung following suit.

***

"You care for him so deeply," Jia said as she entered the room. Then with a sigh, she proceeded to check his vitals.

Jimin didn't comment as he continued to wipe down Jungkook's battered body with all the care he could muster. He was broken and bruised. Not a sight he ever wanted to see on him. The only marks he wanted to see were the ones he left on him after a good fuck or a make-out session. He traced his side with the tip of his fingers, afraid to hurt him before proceeding to clean him a bit more.

"I've never seen you care for anyone else except for the rabbit Mama bought you as a gift. Then it was Taehyung Oppa and me," she whispered, injecting the medicines. "Don't worry. These medicines will ease his pain and let him sleep longer."

Jimin nodded.

"It makes me happy to see that you finally have someone in your life. Someone like him. Taehyung Oppa said how much you love him," Jia continued, observing them with a fond smile. "Come on, I need your help to dress his wounds." Jimin immediately went to help her.

"Tell me about his hip injury."

She paused for a moment. "I told you already."

"I want the unfiltered version, Jia. Don't give me the bullshit you gave them."

She sighed in defeat. "Typically...six months to a year."

"But?"

"Listen, Oppa, it's complicated. Full recovery is possible but only through timely surgery, early rehabilitation, and patience. I have to monitor him and make sure he returns to his normal routine sooner. It's just..."

"Spit it out, Jia," he almost growled.

"Though he might be able to walk like before, he will never be back to his full potential. Over strain will cause his condition to deteriorate. I can't say anything for sure right now but it's always fifty-fifty you know. I need to see how he responds to the therapy."

Jimin clenched his jaw, fists curling around the railing so tight that his knuckles turned white.

"It's not just a hip fracture...We need to be mindful of his other injuries while treating his hip. He's a fighter. He will recover in no time, but he will need all the support he can. It's not going to be easy."

"I'll give him anything he wants," he vowed.

"I mean..." She turned to face him with a serious expression. "He won't be able to have sex for a while. Even after recovery, there will be limitations. As your doctor, I know how active you are, and if you're committing to him, I want you to be clear in this regard."

Jimin's gaze shot to her with a frown. "That's the last thing on my mind. I wasn't sexually active for over a year since —"

"Since you snapped the neck of your last one-night stand," she cut him off.

"Why do I have you as my doctor again?" he groaned.

"Because I'm someone you trust and someone who wouldn't try to kill you like your last two doctors did. Did you forget why Taehyung Oppa and I decided to pursue medicine?"

He sighed and then turned his attention to Jungkook. "Our relationship might have started as purely sexual, but things changed along the way." He stroked Jungkook's arm. "I realized he means more to me. This doesn't change a thing."

"Good. Just don't let him lose his will, Oppa." She put a hand on his arm.

"I won't."

Jia nodded and focused on the task in her hand. Though Jungkook woke up, he slept most of the time because of the painkillers and medicines that were being pumped into his system. He watched helplessly as she dressed his wounds. His throat tightened upon noticing the injury.

His baby didn't deserve this. He wanted to kill someone right now and right there but he realized Jungkook needed him here more than anything or anyone. So, he held back.

They were yet to find out who ordered the hit. Also, they didn't know who sent the text to Jungkook. It came from a burner phone and there was nothing else.

"Did you find Hyewa?" Jia asked.

Jimin shook his head. "We found something else."

She pressed her stethoscope to his chest, listening to his breathing. "Take it slow with Jungkook. He strikes me as an emotional and sensitive person. He will have trouble breathing and will experience intense pain or wheeze if he put too much strain." His sister hummed. "He's recovering well." She folded the stethoscope, pocketing it. I seriously wonder what this boy was even doing in that gang." She huffed. "I mean...look at him. Does he look like a killer to you?"

While Jimin knew how Jungkook could kill in a heartbeat, he understood where she was coming from. Unlike him, Jungkook didn't choose this life for himself. He was forced into this and his mother was ripped away from him for showing him the love he deserved.

"You should see him in a fight. My baby is the best," he whispered. "He's stronger than he looks." He caressed his cheek. "But you're right. He doesn't belong here. He wouldn't be here if he had a choice."

It didn't sit well with him that Jungkook had suffered so much pain and so was his family. Separated from his mother just because she loved him like every mother should love her son. Thrown into the storm alone until he learned how to control his fear.

He didn't even want to imagine the horror of the life both Hyewa and Jeong-seon were leading until this point. It was evident they kept tabs on Jungkook all these years. But why didn't they contact Jungkook? If they had, he'd have definitely helped them. Well, it was complicated but he'd have tried to do something.

Taehyung entered as if on cue, his face void of any emotion. "It's done."

He went to switch on the TV and set it on a news channel.

Breaking news: Jeon Jungkook is alive.

The banner flashed at the bottom of the screen.

Jeon Jungkook, the CEO of the Jeon Group, who was believed to be killed in the shootout, is alive. In an interview with Russia 24/7, the inspector general along with the spokesperson of the Jeon Group had released a press statement for the public.

"It's true that we were attacked." A clip of Namjoon replaced the anchor's face. Yoongi and Hoseok stood behind him. "We were here for personal reasons, but then these men started attacking us out of nowhere. It was a miracle that we even managed to escape."

"Has the police identified the assailants?" one of the reporters asked.

"No. The investigation is going on and we cannot comment further on this."

"Where is Mr. Jeon? Why isn't he here?" another reporter asked.

"He is badly injured," Namjoon replied. "He's recovering." He nodded toward the staff and a photo of Jungkook receiving treatment in the hospital bed was displayed.

"He is alive and safe. That's all we can say now. Please keep him in your prayers."

The clip switched to the anchor and Jimin waved a hand in dismissal. Taehyung shut the TV. He hoped Jeong-seon and Hyewa would watch the news. This was the only way he could get the message across to her without anyone suspecting.

"The arrangement for the auction is made," Taehyung said. "Viktor is onboard with our plan."

Jimin nodded curtly. His gaze shifted to Jungkook who was sound asleep without knowing anything that was going around him.

Sleep, my baby. When you wake up, everything will be alright.

***

Finding information on Jeon Hyewa was hard because she had a different name and identity where she belonged. She had used the surname of her maternal grandfather. She was never a Jeon outside of Korea.

Now they also knew of Kim Jeong-seon, his men had pulled her entire history in a matter of twenty-four hours. Jeong-seon had just turned twenty-one—six years younger than Jungkook.

Hyewa after being forcefully sent to Japan was shipped off to Russia in a matter of weeks where she had spent the rest of her days with her daughter. Nikolay controlled every aspect of her life from the get-go. Before she was sold, she was one of the popular dancers in Club Red Velvet. So, she had resumed the position, grabbing more attention and fame as she went.

She was the one most in-demand among the customers and now that Hyewa wasn't useful for their auctions, the bastard had used her for his sex trade, supplying her to his high-profile customers. Jimin growled and broke a vase when he read that part.

Then Hyewa had fallen sick. Her weak heart hadn't been able to keep up. Nikolay brought Jeong-seon, who was only fifteen at that time, into the club. Jimin could only imagine what she must have gone through and he was sure she wouldn't have chosen this life if she had a choice. The majority of her income went for Hyewa's treatment.

Nikolay delayed the auction only because Jeong-seon was extremely popular and there was a high demand for her in the club. Men threw millions at her for one exclusive performance which was much more money than an auction could bring.

Now that she was twenty-one, Nikolay decided to include her in the auction in a year or two; she'd lose her charm and thereby reduce his chance to earn big bucks in an auction.

Jimin realized Nikolay saw him as one of the potential buyers because of his enmity with Jungkook. Their feud was no secret and for decades everyone believed Jungwoo was the one who ordered the hit on his mother. Everyone believed the hit on Jungkook was by him.

But what Nikolay didn't realize was Jimin was extremely possessive and he was also a dangerous man to screw with. Nikolay would pay for the years of pain he had caused for Hyewa and Jeong-seon.

Oh, he wouldn't even know what hit him.

***

The day of the auction came sooner. The club was closed to the public for this occasion with only participants being the heads of the international gangs being in the place. The security was tight and their weapons were confiscated at the entrance.

Well, Jimin did have his usual undetectable weapons strapped to his body. The place was crawling with guards which were top-notch and justifiable given the presence of top dogs from around the world.

It looked entirely different from how it looked before. It was bright and looked every bit expensive.

Jimin along with Viktor, Taehyung, and Seokjin walked into the place as if they owned them. Maybe they did. There was so much buzz and he could feel the excitement in the air. Nikolay didn't hold back with the arrangements. Alcohol and drugs were being supplied unlimitedly while the strippers served the tables in whatever manner the patrons pleased.

"Shall I pour you a drink, sir?" A stripper tried to slide onto his lap.

He lifted a hand, dismissing her and crossing his leg while Viktor encouraged one with a wink.

"Uh-uh, no, no please..." Seokjin jumped to his feet. "No touching, please..." Taehyung burst into laughter while Seokjin looked scandalized. "Your sister will cut off my balls if she ever found out that I even looked at that stripper," Seokjin hissed under his breath.

Jimin rolled his eyes.

"It's no joke. She injected me with that thing when she was in college, made me immobile, and gave me a rundown of how she would kill me if I ever so much as look at other women in my life."

"You deserved it," Taehyung sassed. "You went out with that woman after rejecting her."

"It was not a date," he stressed each word. "I was on a business dinner. She wasn't even out of college and I wanted to wait. Not to mention I didn't even have Jimin's permission to date her. My life was on the line, man!"

"Nah, you're just overreacting," Taehyung countered.

"Am I?"

Jimin chuckled, welcoming the distraction. They had to look the part and this banter helped. Jia had been after Seokjin ever since they both met with Seokjin always rejecting her advances. However, Jia being the Park she was, had threatened to kill him and anyone he'd dared to look. That was until Jimin intervened and told her exactly why she shouldn't force someone to like her.

Then they had come a long way. Jia had become more mature over the years and Seokjin had given into her relentless pursuit, falling head over heels for her. Though he acted as if he was only with her because of her threat, Jimin knew differently. For so long, Seokjin had thought he didn't deserve her and he couldn't pull her into his life.

But she was born into this life. Though Jimin kept her as far from him as possible, he couldn't do anything when Jia moved into the Bratva compound taking over their medical wing. She said she learned medicine to help them and she was doing it. However, as long as the world didn't know about her the better.

"I'm telling you she had a scalpel on my throat and she looked as serious as Jimin before he would go for a kill. I almost shit my pants that day."

"What an unforgettable moment to fall in love!" Viktor drawled. "Heard you kissed her right there and wouldn't let her go until she dropped the scalpel."

"Listen...it was a defense mechanism. A kiss is the only weapon that can disarm her," Seokjin reasoned.

"Only Seokjinnie's magical kiss," Taehyung sang. "Does Jimin know you kissed her before you went on a date?"

"He does now," Jimin piped in and Seokjin looked mortified.

"Jimin-ah...you know I love her, right? You wouldn't want your sister to lose her only boyfriend, do you?" His eyes were wide and innocent with real fear that he almost laughed out loud.

"You're safe, hyung," he said. "I would like to keep my head intact."

The man remembered every single thing about Jia and even celebrated the anniversary of the day she removed her braces. As embarrassing as it was, Jimin appreciated the dedication. His sister deserved only the best. Jin was just a whipped old soul who liked to pretend he wasn't. How could Jimin ask someone better than Jimin for her? He was perfect to her in every sense.

While Taehyung continued to pull Seokjin's leg, Jimin scanned their surroundings, nodding curtly to a few familiar faces. The owner of the club was walking around, greeting the attendees with a huge smile on his face and Jimin could say how fake it was.

"Welcome back, Mr. Park," Nikolay greeted when he approached his table.

Jimin stood, shaking his hand with a smile mirroring Nikolay's. "I'm doing great, Mr. Vladislav. Nice party."

He laughed. "It's good to see you again. I expected you and you didn't disappoint."

"How could I not? Especially when you've done a great job in making me see how perfectly everything would work out."

Nikolay looked pleased. "It's a pleasure, Mr. Park. I hope you have a great night."

"Oh, I will."

Nikolay moved to greet Viktor next and Jimin sat with his features considerably tightening. He didn't have to wait for long before the program began. It started with live music—this time with a different singer.

His fingers tapped on his knee and he hadn't touched his drink yet. More waitressed, dressed in expensive, glamorous outfits began to make rounds with appetizers and drinks. He directed them to put them on the table but didn't make a move to touch any of them.

He was losing his patience when the main point of the auction finally began. But as with any auction, the good ones were always saved for the last. It started with the lowest ranks. He kept quiet as he waited.

Nikolay would be making a lot of money today. The auction was buzzing with cheers and the gangs were competing with each other. The smug looks when they won the auction were getting a bit too much. Nikolay was beaming like a fucking Christmas light and right beside him was his only son.

When Jeong-seon was finally introduced, it was over one and a half hours. The starting bid alone started with one billion and Jimin scoffed at the outrageous shouts. The auction was moving at a snail's pace and reached only thirty-five billion. Jimin lifted a hand, gesturing at Taehyung.

"Fifty billion," Taehyung yelled, shutting the majority of them.

Jimin smiled smugly, looking at their shocked faces, and tapped his fingers on the table, waiting for someone to challenge him. No one said a word.

That's what I thought.

No one would have the guts to challenge him in Russia. A guy from the Triads tried to lift a hand, only for his colleague to pull it down. Looked like a new guy who didn't know the power Jimin held in Russia. Should have at least paid attention to who was sitting next to Jimin.

Don't!

He saw him mouthing.

Down the stage, Nikolay's smile grew even brighter than it already was.

"That's wonderful! Congratulations, Mr. Park," he announced. "Thanks for joining us today, gentlemen. Before we conclude, I have a little performance for you."

The lights dimmed and the music flooded the speakers. The cashiers of the club began to make their way to the table of the leaders who won the bid, transacting the amount and finishing the paperwork.

Taehyung suddenly leaned toward him. "It's ready."

Jimin nodded, bringing his fist over his mouth. "Give them the order."

"Code green, alpha team. You're on."

Jimin smiled. "Let the real show begin."

At first, nothing happened. The first song ended and Jungkook's sister moved to the next song after a short dance break that left the crowd in awe. Jimin applauded her flawless performance. He still stood by his thoughts. She was talented and belonged on a stage. Just not this one.

He was going to change that. This was the last night she'd be dancing around these sonofthebitches. Tomorrow, she'd be safe and sound with her brother, where no one would dare touch her.

It was during the start of the fourth song when it happened. Or someone realized something was happening. The cashiers were at his table, going over the formalities. They entered the details onto their laptop and turned it to him so he could enter his account details when it happened.

The shots came out of nowhere. No one realized what was going on with the loud music. There was confusion as to the Italian mafia's leader dead with a bullet between his eyes. For a moment, they were looking around, alarmed and scrambling for their weapons, which they did not have with them.

The yells started when the next round of bullets killed everyone at the Triads table. Too bad. Jimin was hoping their fucking leader would be here.

Jimin jumped to his feet, rushing to the stage as Taehyung covered for him. People had begun to run in every direction, shouts and yells coming from every corner. He saw Jeong-seon in the middle of the stage, staggering on her feet, looking around with wide eyes.

One of Nikolay's men reached her first, dragging her out of there. Jimin followed with a curse. He intercepted them in the narrow corridor, knocking the idiot out.

She yelped when he grabbed her wrist, pulling her toward the exit. Outside the chaos had just exploded. The members had managed to accumulate the weapons from the fallen security guards and were shooting at their assailants.

"Plan B," Taehyung said. "It's too hot in there."

Jimin nodded. They took the alternate exit, running in the direction they came from, going deeper into the club. The corridors were long with multiple twists and turns. Taehyung took the lead.

"Was that you?" Jeong-seon asked. "The attack. Was that you?"

"Yep."

Then they kept moving after that, rounding corner after corner and climbing down stairwells.

"How many fucking corridors does this guy have?" Taehyung grunted and it was their quick reflexes that saved them from the shot that was fired at them.

"We are running toward Nikolay's office," Jeong-seon yelled.

"Good to know," Jimin shot back as he pushed her toward Taehyung right as another shot was fired at them.

Taehyung moved in a flash, shooting right back and taking down that guy. It looked as if Nikolay's personal guards weren't dead yet. Jimin was keen to rectify that little situation. There were a total of three playing hide and seek. Too bad Jimin was better at it than they were. Jimin shot back, taking down the other two with a smirk.

"Where is the elevator?" Jimin asked as he loaded his gun.

"That way," she pointed.

Their steps were quick as they approached the elevator. Taehyung pushed the button as he waited for the damn box to arrive, keeping a watch behind them.

"Alpha team, come in, what's the status?" he asked.

"The chopper is waiting for you at the rooftop, sir." Came to their response through the earpiece.

The elevator doors opened on cue and they froze.

"Going somewhere, Mr. Park?" Nikolay grinned. "I believe you have something that belongs to us."

Jimin counted at least seven bodyguards along with his son. He smiled, lowering his gun. "We were just looking for a way out of this unexpected situation."

Nikolay's grin didn't falter. "Thanks for protecting our precious cargo," he said. "I'll take it from here and my men here will guide you both to safety."

Jimin smiled with a curt nod. Jeong-seon looked between him and Nikolay. But a double-tap on her wrist was all the warning she got before Taehyung was pulling her to the floor.

Jimin charged at them, the guards never stood a chance. He went for the kill, hand finding their weak spot and he delivered the blow. He took down two before they even realized what was happening.

"You stupid fucker!" One guy shot at him and Jimin guarded his body with a dead guard and pushed his body on them.

They were scrambling out of the elevator but Taehyung was there this time, sweeping a leg under them and digging his fingers at their throat. Jimin flew in the air, rotating his body and locking his legs around the head of a guard while he grabbed the other with his hands, snapping their necks. Their limp bodies fell to the ground.

"You, fucking traitor!" Nikolay's son shot at him blindly, but Jimin ducked and landed a blow on his wrist, breaking it.

On the other side, Taehyung had taken care of the others and held Nikolay in a chokehold, his gun discarded.

"P-Park..." he wheezed in Taehyung's hold. "I didn't take you for a traitor. W-We never violated the c-code."

Jimin twirled Nikolay's son, kicking at his knee to push him to the ground, and then gripped his neck. "You violated every fucking code the moment you touched Hyewa," he growled.

"H-Hyewa?" Nikolay's eyes widened.

Jimin clicked his tongue. "You hurt her and several women like her, Nikolay. You signed your death warrant the moment you flaunted Jeong-seon in front of me." He smiled.

"W-Why? They are not yours," he cried. "Let my son go."

Jimin's smile was sick, something he reserved for people who would see him for the last time. "Oh, that's where you're wrong, Nikolay. The Jeons are mine."

Taehyung cackled. "He doesn't know yet," he said. "We can't blame you though. Nobody does. That little secret will die with you today."

"Stop. Let my son go. I don't fucking care what you do with the Jeons. He has nothing to do with it."

"But I do, Nikolay. What will you do if someone fucked with your wife?" he asked in a sickeningly sweet voice. Understanding seemed to dawn on his face. "Exactly. You messed with the wrong family. You will die today with the knowledge that I've brought down your entire domain. Red Velvets will be removed from history and there will no longer be a Venus," he growled, breaking his son's neck.

"No!"

But Nikolay didn't have much time to mourn because Taehyung snapped his neck next. They watched his body fall limp onto the floor.

"Come on, clear the bodies. I asked Jeong-seon to hide in his office. I'll go grab her."

Jimin nodded curtly and got to pull the bodies out of the elevator. "Alpha team, what's the update?"

"Success, sir. The Interpol is eight minutes away. We will be out of here by then."

"Good."

He was removing the last body when Taehyung came back with Jeong-seon.

"Hurry," he said. "We have eight minutes to leave this shit hole."

They hurried inside and then to the rooftop where a helicopter was waiting. What he did today was extremely risky. If anyone ever learned it was Jimin behind the attack, he'd have the world's every crime syndicate chasing him down.

But he had planned it meticulously. He even had moles deep within the Interpol and plotted everything out. The first team that went with the alpha team consisted of men that were loyal to him. As for the second team, however, he couldn't say the same. They wouldn't find a damn thing though.

Nikolay had been on the wanted list for so long and he wouldn't be missed too much. It was a high-profile auction and everyone would suspect that Interpol had sniffed it out and tried to take down everyone.

The elevator dinged, announcing their arrival at the rooftop. Sure enough, the chopper was right there. When they rushed to it, Viktor extended a hand with a victorious grin. Taehyung helped Jeong-seon inside and Viktor quickly strapped her in. The chopper took off as soon as both Jimin and Taehyung jumped inside.

"You have a death wish, Jimin," Viktor chastised. "I can't believe you pulled this shit off."

Jimin grinned as he plopped on the floor and rolled to his back with a wide grin. "I don't do shit I can't pull off."

"Sometimes...you scare me, Park Jimin. I'm glad you're on my side," Viktor said.

"Same, Viktor. Same," Jimin said. "Brothers for life."

"Brothers for life," Viktor repeated.

***

Jeong-seon didn't have much hope with the auction. She really didn't expect any miracle in the least. She could only pray that her fate, whatever it was, was at least bearable unlike her mother's. Then it wasn't that easy. They weren't allowed to have hope. They were disposable and worthless. They existed only for the pleasure of men.

So when Jimin suddenly showed and sprouted all that nonsense, she scoffed and just went on with whatever was waiting for her. That night when she turned to the news channel, she was surprised to learn Jungkook wasn't dead as they believed. He was shot but alive.

A part of her suspected if the men were lying. Then she knew who Namjoon was. She'd seen the three of them together all these years through news channels and business magazines. She also saw the short clip of the car chase.

So she thought it was safe to believe the news. However, it didn't make sense how Jimin knew of this and what he meant when he said he would be back for the auction. Taehyung's words were confusing as fuck.

Last night, Jimin had taken her to a hotel that belonged to the Bratva. He showed her to the room and asked her to rest for the night. A fresh set of clothes and food was waiting for her when she entered. Up until that point, nothing made sense.

Was Jimin connected to her brother?

How did he know Jungkook was alive?

Why would he save me from that hell hole?

No one dared to stand against Nikolay. But he'd not only killed him but also his son. Jeong-seon shivered just at the sight of the bodies. There were also men who had harassed her and her mother throughout the years among the dead ones. She didn't know how to feel about all that. Her stand with Jimin was still unclear.

This morning when Jimin showed up in her room and told her that they would leave in fifteen minutes, she didn't know where he was taking her.

Now that she walked down the long corridors inside the Bratva compound, she still had no answers. She kept her mouth shut, knowing she had no right to talk or raise questions. Jimin hadn't spoken a word. Hadn't said anything during their trip here.

Her heart was in her throat as several thoughts plagued her mind. They took the elevator down and entered a floor that smelled like disinfectants. It was clean and she noticed several doors lining both sides of the hall.

There were security guards here as well. Everyone nodded and slightly inclined their head toward Jimin. She eyed him but kept walking.

Where is he taking me?

Honestly, this wasn't the place she expected him to bring her. It was confusing and she couldn't think of anything reasonable. Jimin stopped in front of a door. So she did too.

"Is he awake?" he asked the guard stationed outside.

"Yes. Dr. Jia just left."

Jimin turned to face her, his expression serious. "Jungkookie is inside," he said and allowed a beat of silence to process the information. "He's my boyfriend. We are dating for a while now," he continued as if sensing her confusion. "He doesn't know he has a sister or where his mother is. He was badly injured during the shootout. One bullet punctured his lungs, so he has trouble breathing and I don't think it's a good time to spring all this on him. He tends to get emotional. So, I don't want him crying over this now and suffering because of this."

She listened with wide eyes, her thoughts racing.

They are dating??? Weren't they enemies? When did a dragon and a cobra begin to get along?

"I'm going to introduce you to him as a caretaker, who'd stay with him in my absence. Play along." He turned only to pause and throw a glance over his shoulder. "I know this is hard, but it's for his good. I should have given you a prior warning but I didn't think you'd believe anything I said."

With that, he pushed the door and held it open for her. Her gaze immediately snapped inside to the bed, to the man who was resting on it. Her mouth parted in a soft gasp as she finally saw Jungkook. Her heart thundered in her chest and emotion so overwhelming tightened her throat.

"Come in."

Jungkook who was watching TV turned his head immediately to Jimin, a smile so bright and that was so painfully similar to their mother lit his face. He looked disheveled and pale, but his eyes still twinkled. She thought it ran in their family. Even their mother's eyes would shine just the same whenever she saw Jungkook on the news.

This was her brother. A brother she thought she'd never meet. She swallowed.

"H-Hyung-nim..." His voice was hoarse and he tried to move.

"Baby, don't..." Jimin was beside him in an instant. "Aish...you brat, how many times do I have to tell you to not move?"

She didn't know what caught her off guard—the fondness in Jimin's voice or the familiarity with which Jungkook looked at him.

Jungkook hadn't even spared a glance at her. His attention was solely on Jimin, who had closed the distance to the bed in a few long strides. She watched wide-eyed as her brother puckered his chapped lips. Jimin dipped his head, kissing him gently. When they pulled apart, they brushed their noses, the smile on their faces was so soft and there was just so much love. The action was so intimate that it caused warmth to rush to her chest.

She pinched herself just to see if this was all a dream. Shit. It was real. It was very real. Very very real.

"M-Missed y-you..."

"Missed you too, my baby."

Jungkook moved slightly only to wince.

"Are you in pain, baby? Didn't Jia give you the painkillers?"

He shook his head slightly. "T-Told her no."

"You didn't want painkillers?"

Jungkook shook his head once again, allowing Jimin to settle him in a comfortable position. "They make m-me sleepy." He put a hand over the middle of his chest, taking a moment. "Wanted to see hyung. D-Didn't want to sleep."

Jimin clicked his tongue and pressed a button near his bed. "That's not good, baby. You know hyung doesn't like to see you in pain."

"But—"

"No buts, baby. You need to rest and you don't forget your medicines."

"I m-miss you, hyung-nim." His eyes were round and puppy-like when he looked at Jimin with a pout. He sounded breathless as if he had trouble talking.

"Oppa, you're back," a woman said from behind her.

Jeong-seon turned to see a woman in a doctor's coat, walking inside, pushing a food trolley. Her gaze flicked to her and she offered a small bow. She nodded her head before turning her attention to Jimin.

"He refused to eat before you came. He said he wanted to eat with you and he wouldn't let me give him the injections."

Jimin turned to Jungkook, narrowing his eyes.

Jungkook looked down at his lap. "J-Just wanted to s-spend—"

"Shh..." Jimin silenced him. "Don't talk too much, Jungkook-ah. I know it must be hurting like hell. How about I ask Jia to give you something mild? Just to reduce the pain so you could eat and spend some time with hyung?"

Jungkook suddenly looked hopeful. "H-hyung—"

"Hyung isn't angry, baby," Jimin intervened once again and turned to the doctor. "Give him something mild."

She nodded and went to grab the medicine. Jeong-seon shifted from one foot to the other, feeling out of place. They were so domestic. While it made her happy to see someone caring for her brother, it also felt too intimate to be with them in the same room.

Once the doctor injected the medicine and Jungkook relaxed a bit, Jimin moved to perch on the side of his bed.

"Jungkookie, I want you to meet someone," Jimin said, gesturing for her to move closer. "This is Kim Jeong-seon. She will be your caretaker during my absence."

Jeong-seon was once again caught off-guard. She bowed deeply, greeting him. "Good day, Mr. Jeon. It's nice to meet you." She was glad her voice came out steady unlike how she was feeling inside.

Jungkook nodded. "Do I really need one?" he asked Jimin.

"Yes and Jeong-seon is family. She's also someone I trust."

"Oh, okay then." He smiled. "Nice to meet you too, Jeong-seon-ssi. You can call me Jungkook."

Her eyes widened. "I-I can't..." she shook her head.

Jungkook's smile was friendly. "Ah, no formalities. Hyung said you're family."

"But y-you're—"

My brother.

"She's younger than you, Jungkook-ah. She has a brother who is the same age as you. She wouldn't be comfortable calling you by your name," Jimin said. "You can call him Oppa." He turned to Jungkook. "Is that fine with you, darling?"

"Oh, o-of course." Jungkook's smile was wide. "I n-never had a sister." His breathing was ragged. "It-think I would like having someone younger than me in my c-circle."

She almost cried right then. You always had a sister. It's just our shitty father never wanted you to know that I exist. And our mother didn't want to risk your life by contacting you or letting you know about us.

"We are going to spend a long time together, Oppa," she said softly. "I hope we can get along well."

He nodded.

Jimin pulled the food tray toward him. "Come on. It's time to eat."

She watched as Jimin took a spoonful, blew on it before feeding Jungkook. "Ouch," her brother said. "Too hot."

"What? Oh, God! So sorry, baby. I'll be careful." He began to blow the next spoon longer than the first one.

"N-Not the soup. You."

Jimin rolled his eyes. "Brat."

Jungkook laughed, only to flinch harder and clutch his chest.

"Be careful, baby. You gotta take it easy."

"I-I keep forgetting." He closed his eyes.

"You do." He gently rubbed his chest. "Slow, Jungkookie."

Jeong-seon didn't know what to do as he stared between the two men. Should she leave? She could really use some alone time to process whatever just happened. How could someone spring such information just like that on her and expect her to stay calm?

She was feeling like she'd explode if she didn't let it out. Cry until everything made sense.

Someone grabbed her elbow and she snapped her gaze to the doctor with a kind smile. "Come with me."

She followed the doctor, thankful to be able to get out of there. First of her tears fell as soon as she was out of the room.

"I'm sorry about that. I guess he didn't give you heads up?" she asked with the same smile.

Jeong-seon nodded mutely.

The woman scoffed. "Forgive my brother. He tends to be like that sometimes. He can be a jerk when it isn't his Jungkook."

"H-He is your brother?" she asked wide-eyed.

"Park Jimin?" She grinned. "Yes. I'm Park Ji-Jia. You can call me Unnie or Jia. Whatever you're comfortable with."

"O-Okay."

"I have a suite here. You can stay with me for the time being." She guided her to the elevator. "Not sure if my brother told you about your mother. She's safe," she said. "We found out where she is, but it's not safe to transfer her right away. Jimin already has made arrangements for her surgery." She patted her hand. "I know it must be a lot. Just know you're safe and everything has been taken care of. You have nothing to fear anymore."

She nodded mutely and let her take to one of the rooms.

"I have something to do. I'll be back in an hour. There's a cell phone on that table for your use and you'll find new sets of clothes in that bag by the foot of your bed. Make yourself home. We will talk more once I'm back and I'll answer any questions you might have."

Jeong-seon nodded once again and watched Jia leave. She entered the room, her body trembling and her knees gave out the moment the door shut behind her. She began to cry into her palms as the events began to catch up with her.

We are nearing the end of this fic.

Don't worry Jungkook will be fine though he will have suffer some side effects, but that's why he has Jimin with him.

Note: Jungkook's mom never contacted him because Jungwoo warned her than he will kill Jungkook if she ever did. Fearing that, she never tried to contact him. She tried once when she learned Nikolay was going to put Jeong-seon in auction, but it was the same time Jungkook got attacked in China.

More to be revealed later. Stay tuned.