I drive Y/N to the coast, the tension between us thick as we travel in silence. When we arrive, there's a golden glow over the pristine shoreline. I park the car and lead her to stroll through the gated community. Villas are spread out with ample space between them, ensuring privacy.

While walking around, I show her the landscaped gardens, which have fountains and exotic plants—everything that she loves. It's a paradise, and I sneak a look at her to see if she's impressed, but it doesn't seem like she is.

"Surprise," I say, gesturing towards the grandest villa, directly facing the shoreline. It's the biggest one, and the expansive windows have an amazing view of the outside.

"That one's yours," I say.

We come to a halt in front of it, and the sight of the coast from here is outstanding. A yacht, shining in the sunlight, is anchored just offshore.

"And that," I point to the yacht, its sleek form bobbing gently in the water, "is also yours. I know how much you love the sea. They are both in your name."

I watch her face, expecting her eyes to light up. Y/N loves swimming and being by the sea. I want to make up for all the ways I've failed her emotionally. But instead of joy, her eyes narrow with anger.

"Do you really think this fixes anything?" she snaps, her voice cutting through the ambient sounds of the waves and seagulls. "Do you think material things can make up for everything you've done?"

This isn't the reaction I anticipated. "Y/N, I thought—"

"Thought what, Jungkook? That you can buy my forgiveness?" She shakes her head. "This isn't what I want. This isn't what I need."

I plead with her, my voice softer than usual, "Please, Y/N, just give this day a chance."

She looks towards the shoreline, staying silent for a minute that feels like an eternity. Finally, she nods reluctantly, and I allow my muscles to relax. This woman knows how to keep me on my toes. I'm willing to lay out my entire fortune for her heeled feet to step on, just for her to look at me like she used to.

I lead her towards the yacht, where I help her up on it. The captain meets us there, shaking my hand. He then shakes Y/N's hand, avoiding looking at her for too long. Good.

"Are you ready to go diving?" the captain asks with a smile.

Y/N's eyes widen in surprise. "Diving?" she exclaims, nearly bouncing on her feet with excitement.

"Yes," I say, watching her closely. "I know you've always wanted to try it."

Her excitement is contagious. She's practically glowing, and my heart beats faster just seeing her like this. The captain begins explaining the safety protocols and the diving plan, and she listens carefully, nodding with enthusiasm.

As we set sail, the shore disappears, leaving us surrounded by endless blue water. It's calm, peaceful. While we gear up for the dive, I notice a flicker of nervousness in Y/N's eyes. She's trying to hide it, but I see it. Brave as ever.

When we're ready to jump, she grips my arm tightly, her fingers digging in. I relish the contact, craving every second of it. Her closeness reminds me of everything I've missed, everything I've been fighting for.

She leans closer, her voice low so the captain doesn't hear. "This doesn't mean anything," she whispers defiantly.

I hold back a smile at her stubbornness. "Sure," I reply, knowing she doesn't mean it.

We dive into the water, and the world falls silent. It's serene, and the underwater view is breathtaking. I glance at Y/N and swear I see her laugh, even underwater. The sight feels like sunlight warming my soul. I hadn't heard that laugh in so long, and I didn't realize how much I needed it.

When we resurface and climb back onto the yacht, her smile is radiant, her energy infectious. She's glowing, and it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.

"Did you enjoy it?" I ask, brushing a wet strand of hair from her face.

"Yes," she murmurs, her voice soft but happy.

"Good," I say, my chest warming. "I had a sundress and sandals left out for you. Go change, and we'll have dinner on the beach."

She nods and heads to the cabin. When she returns, dressed in a simple sundress, she looks stunning. I lead her to the villa, where a romantic dinner is set up on the terrace. The view of the sea, the gentle sound of waves—it's perfect.

But as we sit down to eat, I notice she's just pushing her food around, not really eating.

"What's wrong?" I ask, leaning closer.

She sets down her fork and sighs. "What do you feel for me, Jungkook?"

Her question hits me hard. I swallow, unsure how to respond. "I... I don't know," I admit, the words choking me. The memories of my past flash through my mind—dark and painful. "I think I love you," I finally say, my voice trembling.

She takes a deep breath, her eyes glistening. "I don't want someone who thinks he loves me," she says quietly. "I need someone who knows. No matter what you do, no matter how hard you try, it'll never be enough. It's better if you stop."

Her words cut deep, leaving me speechless. I thought bringing her here, doing all of this, would show her how much I care. But it's clear now—it's not about the gestures. It's about what I can't seem to give her: certainty.

"Y/N," I begin, my voice barely audible. "I'm trying. I really am."

She looks at me, her gaze piercing. "Loving me shouldn't need trying. If you truly loved me, it would come naturally."

I don't know what to say. My chest feels heavy, her words slicing through me. She stands, her voice cold but steady. "Take me back to the mansion."

I nod reluctantly. "Alright. Let's go."

The ride back is silent. She stares out the window, lost in her thoughts, while I grip the steering wheel tightly, my mind racing for a solution.

When we reach the mansion, she heads straight to the guest room, shutting the door behind her without a word.

I stand there, glaring at the closed door, frustration boiling inside me. Y/N may think she can shut me out, but I won't let her. She's mine, and I'll prove it to her. I'll change. I'll be the man she needs.

And when I do, I'll make sure that damn guest room never sees her again.