Chapter 28 : A Night of Unseen Tension

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The grand hall was a spectacle of opulence, its polished marble floors reflecting the glow of crystal chandeliers. The room buzzed with chatter as guests dressed in the evening's theme-white for men and black for women-mingled. But when Taehyung and Miso stepped further into the hall, a hush rippled through the crowd.

Their contrasting outfits-Taehyung in a sleek black suit and Miso in an ethereal white gown-made them stand out like monarchs defying convention. Heads turned, whispers followed, and gazes lingered, a mix of admiration and curiosity sweeping through the room.

"Power couple," someone murmured in awe, and the phrase echoed as more eyes followed them.

Miso felt the weight of their stares, but instead of shrinking under their scrutiny, she met them head-on with a small, confident smile. Beside her, Taehyung moved with his usual cold elegance, his hand lightly resting on her lower back, a silent but commanding display of authority.

A group of businessmen was the first to approach them, their polished smiles and expensive cologne announcing their importance before they even spoke.

"Kim Taehyung," one of them greeted, a tall man with a sharp jawline and an air of self-importance. "It's always a pleasure to see you." His eyes shifted to Miso. "And this must be your wife. I don't believe we've had the pleasure."

"Miso," she introduced herself with a polite smile, her tone smooth and confident.

"Ah, Miso," the man repeated, as if savoring the name. "I've heard a great deal about you. A daughter of Kim Jaehyun himself-now that's an impressive alliance."

Miso's lips curled into a faint smirk. "I'd like to think I'm more than just my father's daughter, but I appreciate the compliment."

Another man, slightly older with graying hair, chimed in. "Mr. Kim, you've truly outdone yourself. A wife as formidable as Mrs. Kim here strengthens your position tenfold, especially now that the Busan territory is under your control."

Taehyung's cold gaze flicked toward him. "My position was solid before this marriage. Busan was simply a logical addition." His voice was calm, but the warning was clear.

The wives of the businessmen, standing nearby in their intricate black gowns, began to interject. One of them, a woman with bright red lipstick and an air of sophistication, addressed Miso directly. "Your gown is exquisite. It's rare to see someone pull off white with such confidence at an event like this. It makes you look... ethereal."

"Thank you," Miso replied, her tone saccharine but edged with a hint of sass. "I suppose it helps to stand out when everyone else blends in."

The woman blinked, momentarily caught off guard, before laughing lightly. "Touché. I see Mr. Kim has met his match."

Another guest, a younger woman who was clearly trying to impress, leaned in. "Mrs. Kim, do you plan on getting involved in the business world, or will you be focusing on... other pursuits?"

Miso tilted her head, her smile sharpening. "Oh, I've always been involved in business. I grew up in it, after all. But I prefer to let my actions speak for themselves."

One of the mafia allies, a burly man with tattoos creeping up his neck, joined the conversation. "Mrs. Kim, your father is a legend in Busan. I've done business with him in the past. His daughter must be just as ruthless."

"Ruthless?" Miso echoed, her voice sweet yet laced with mischief. "I'll take that as a compliment. Though, if you ask my husband, he might say I'm more of a handful than anything else."

Taehyung's lips twitched slightly, the barest hint of amusement. "She's both," he said simply, his tone leaving no room for further discussion.

The group chuckled, clearly charmed by the dynamic between the couple.

A woman from the mafia alliances, dressed in a sleek black dress that screamed danger, stepped forward. "Taehyung, it's been a while since we've seen you at one of these events. And now you bring a wife. Interesting. I must say, Mrs. Kim, you carry yourself with more grace than most women in this world."

"Grace is a matter of perspective," Miso replied, her smile never faltering. "But thank you. I do try."

Taehyung's sharp gaze moved between Miso and the woman, his voice cutting through the small talk. "She's not here to be compared to anyone. She's here because she belongs by my side."

The woman raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by Taehyung's protective tone. "Of course. It's clear she's a perfect match for you."

Miso leaned slightly toward Taehyung, her voice low but audible enough for the group. "Is it just me, or do these compliments sound more like tests?"

Taehyung smirked faintly. "Let them test. They'll find their answers soon enough."

The conversations shifted to business alliances, mergers, and territory deals. Miso handled the questions about her father's operations with practiced ease, deflecting when necessary and offering sharp, insightful answers when it suited her.

"She's sharp," one of the men muttered to Taehyung.

"Always has been," Taehyung replied, his tone clipped but unmistakably proud.

As the group began to disperse, Taehyung leaned down slightly, his voice quiet. "Do you want something to drink?"

Miso glanced up at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, are you offering to play bartender now? How generous."

His jaw tightened, though there was a flicker of amusement in his eyes. "I'll take that as a yes."

---

The bar area was alive with soft laughter, clinking glasses, and murmured conversations. Taehyung and Miso approached the sleek, modern counter where a group of sharply dressed men lounged casually, exuding confidence and charisma. The moment they were spotted, grins broke out across familiar faces.

Jimin was the first to notice them. His eyes lit up, and a grin spread across his face. "Well, well, look who decided to grace us with their presence-the man of the hour and his lovely wife."

Taehyung shot him a warning look. "Behave, Jimin."

Miso raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching in amusement. "Lovely wife? Are you sure you're talking about me?"

Jimin smirked, ignoring Taehyung's glare. "Of course. Though I have to say, Mrs. Kim, you've already earned a medal for marrying him. The rest of us wouldn't survive a week."

Jimin nudged Taehyung playfully. "You're doomed, my friend. She's going to outshine you in no time."

Taehyung shot him a glare. "Careful, Park. I'm not in the mood for your jokes tonight."

"Since when are you ever in the mood?" Jimin teased, earning a round of laughter from the group.

"Jimin," Taehyung said coldly, his voice a low growl.

"What?" Jimin replied, feigning innocence. "I'm just stating facts."

Hoseok leaned back in his chair, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "You're not wrong, Jimin. Taehyung's practically allergic to fun.Tell me, how does it feel to tame the untamable?"

Miso smirked, catching on to the playful atmosphere. "Tame him? Oh no, I'm just letting him think he's in control."

Jungkook let out a loud laugh, nearly spilling his drink. "Oh, she's good! I like her already."

Taehyung shot Jungkook a cold glare. "Laugh while you can, Jungkook. You'll regret it later."

Jungkook grinned, unbothered. "You've been saying that for years, hyung. I'm still waiting."

Seokjin, ever the charmer, stepped forward and took Miso's hand with an exaggerated bow. "Mrs. Kim, you have my deepest sympathies. Marrying Taehyung must feel like adopting a very moody cat."

"Moody cat?" Taehyung repeated, his voice dripping with disbelief.

"Yes," Seokjin said, nodding sagely. "You know, the kind that glares at you for existing but secretly follows you around because it likes your presence."

Miso burst out laughing, clutching her stomach. "That's... surprisingly accurate."

"Yah, Jin-hyung," Taehyung growled. "I'm standing right here."

"Exactly why I said it," Seokjin replied, patting Taehyung on the shoulder.

Hoseok, always the life of the party, leaned closer to Miso. "Ignore him. Jin-hyung has a habit of talking nonsense. But honestly, Mrs. Kim, how do you deal with his constant glaring? Do you have sunglasses on standby?"

Miso feigned deep thought. "No, but that's a great idea. I should keep a pair in my purse just in case."

"Yah!" Taehyung barked, his tone sharp but his eyes betraying a hint of amusement.

Jimin nudged Taehyung playfully. "You're doomed, my friend. She's going to outshine you in no time."

Taehyung shot him a glare. "Careful, Park. I'm not in the mood for your jokes tonight."

"Since when are you ever in the mood?" Jimin teased, earning a round of laughter from the group.

Jimin grinned wickedly. "I knew she was a good match the moment I saw her. Taehyung's finally met someone who can handle his... unique personality."

"Unique? Is that what we're calling it now?" Jungkook quipped, earning another round of laughter.

Hoseok raised his glass. "To Mrs. Kim-the bravest among us."

As the group toasted, Miso held up a hand, stopping them. "Wait, wait. Can we drop the 'Mrs. Kim' thing? It makes me feel like I'm an old lady. Just call me Miso. I think I'm the youngest here anyway."

"Oh, definitely," Jungkook said with a grin. "It's like we just adopted a baby sister."

"Baby sister?" Miso arched a brow, feigning offense. "I don't know if I should be flattered or insulted."

"Flattered," Hoseok chimed in with a playful wink. "Trust me, it's a high honor."

"Well, in that case," Miso said with mock grandeur, "I accept."

"Careful," Jimin teased. "Once we adopt you, there's no going back."

She smirked. "I think I can handle it."

Taehyung sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Do you all plan on ganging up on me the entire night?"

"Obviously," Seokjin replied without missing a beat.

Before Taehyung could respond, Jungkook smirked. "So, Miso, tell us-how do you get Taehyung to stop glaring? We've been trying for years."

"Oh, it's simple," Miso replied with mock sweetness. "I glare back."

The group erupted into laughter, and even Taehyung couldn't completely hide the twitch of his lips.

"She's perfect," Seokjin declared, clinking his glass against hers.

Miso chuckled, feeling a warmth she hadn't expected. Their banter was refreshing, a stark contrast to the cold, calculated world she'd been thrust into. These men weren't just business associates or mafia alliances-they were Taehyung's chosen family, and their camaraderie was infectious.

Jimin leaned in again, grinning. "See? We're winning her over. Admit it, Taehyung, you'd be lost without us."

Taehyung rolled his eyes but didn't reply, choosing instead to sip his whiskey.

Miso leaned closer to Taehyung, her voice teasing. "Do they always gang up on you like this?"

"Always," Taehyung muttered, his tone exasperated.

"And yet you keep coming back," Seokjin pointed out.

"Maybe he secretly likes it," Hoseok added, grinning.

"Enough," Taehyung said firmly, his gaze cutting through the playful chaos.

But his friends weren't done.

"She's already got him whipped," Jimin said with a smirk.

"I'm not whipped," Taehyung countered, his tone icy.

Miso turned to Jimin, her eyes sparkling. "Do you have evidence to back that claim? I'd love to see it."

Jungkook burst into laughter. "She's one of us now."

Taehyung groaned, but a small, hidden smile tugged at his lips as he watched his wife banter with his closest friends. Despite the teasing, he could see how easily Miso fit into this dynamic, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of peace.

---
Just as the banter between Taehyung's group reached its peak, the air around the bar area subtly shifted. Heads turned as a towering figure entered the hall. Kim Jaehyun, Miso's father, radiated authority and power, his sharp gaze scanning the crowd until it landed on his daughter. A genuine smile, rare for a man of his stature, softened his otherwise intimidating demeanor.

"There's my, Princess," he greeted, his voice warm yet authoritative.

Miso turned, her expression softening slightly. "Dad. I didn't expect to see you so soon."

"Business waits for no one," he replied, his gaze briefly flickering to Taehyung. "Though I'm glad to see my daughter thriving."

"Thriving?" Miso repeated, her tone teasing. "I think you mean surviving."

Jaehyun chuckled. "Oh I know how big troublemaker my daughter is so I don't think you are the one who's surviving. But I had to check on my favorite daughter."

"I'm your only daughter," she reminded him dryly.

"And my favorite," he countered smoothly.

Taehyung straightened, his usual cold expression carefully neutral. He inclined his head slightly in respect. "Mr. Kim," he greeted formally.

Jaehyun chuckled, his eyes briefly meeting Taehyung's. "Taehyung-ssi, I trust you're taking good care of my daughter?"

Taehyung's jaw tightened, but he replied smoothly, "She's in capable hands."

Jaehyun's gaze flicked back to Miso, his expression softening. "I see that," he said, noting her radiant appearance. "You've been busy charming Seoul, haven't you, princess?"

Miso rolled her eyes playfully. "Oh, you know me, Dad. Always leaving a trail of admirers wherever I go."

"That's my girl," he said proudly before his tone turned serious. "But I must admit, I've missed you. Busan feels... quieter without you."

Miso crossed her arms, her sassiness kicking in. "Quieter, or are you just missing covering up for your favorite challenger?"

Jaehyun laughed, the sound deep and genuine. "A bit of both. You've always been my favourite challenger. None of my rivals have the guts to challenge me like you do."

The interaction was interrupted by a familiar voice. "Ah, Mr. Kim Jaehyun," Jimin greeted, stepping forward with his usual charm. "It's an honor to finally meet the man who raised such a... spirited young lady."

Jaehyun turned his gaze to Jimin, recognizing him instantly. "Park Jimin. I've heard much about you. A close friend of my son-in-law, yes?"

Jimin grinned. "One of the closest. I'd say I've got the inside scoop on all his quirks."

"Quirks?" Miso repeated with a smirk. "Now that's a conversation I'd love to hear."

Jaehyun chuckled, clearly entertained. "I see my daughter has found herself among good company. Take care of her," he said, addressing the group as a whole.

"Always," Jimin replied without hesitation, though his playful smirk softened the seriousness of his words.

Kim Jaehyun then opened his arms, enveloping his daughter in a warm hug. "You look stunning, my dear. Though I'm not surprised-when have you ever not stolen the spotlight?" his gaze shifted to Miso's outfit, which stood out boldly against the gala's theme, "you never fail to make an impression, princess. Though I imagine some of the older crowd might be clutching their pearls at your choice of attire."

Miso smirked. "If they're clutching their pearls, they should invest in stronger jewelry. I don't dress to please the crowd, Dad. You taught me that."

Jaehyun's grin widened. "Indeed, I did. And it seems you've learned well."

Miso pulled back slightly, rolling her eyes with playful exasperation. "You're biased, but I'll take it."

"Always," he replied with a chuckle.

Their exchange was laced with a mix of affection and sarcasm, a dynamic that Taehyung watched carefully. He stood silently beside her, his presence a quiet reminder of his own power.

---

The evening continued, the hum of conversations filling the grand hall. Miso was in the middle of a lively conversation with Jimin and Hoseok when her gaze drifted toward the entrance. She froze, her eyes widening as a familiar figure strolled in.

"Is that-" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Before Taehyung could ask, she broke into a run, her heels clicking against the polished floor.

"Yoongi!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with unfiltered joy.

The man in question, Min Yoongi, turned just in time to catch her as she flung her arms around him. He stumbled slightly but quickly recovered, a rare smile gracing his usually stoic face.

"Miso," he greeted, his tone warm. "You're going to knock me over one day, you know that?"

"I can't believe it's you!" she gushed, still clinging to him. "I knew Dad wouldn't come alone, but I didn't think you'd be here too."

"I wouldn't miss it," Yoongi replied, his tone smooth and collected. "Someone has to keep your father from starting unnecessary wars at these events."

"Wars?" Jaehyun interjected, mock offended. "I'm a businessman, not a warmonger."

"Sure, Dad," Miso quipped, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "And I'm a saint."

"But seriously yoongi, You came all this way and didn't even tell me," Miso accused, her voice filled with mock hurt.

Yoongi smirked. "I wanted to surprise you. Also you think I'd miss a chance to see my favorite troublemaker? Besides, your father insisted."

"Of course, he did," Miso said, rolling her eyes. "Dad loves dragging you into his plans."

Jaehyun, who was now chatting with some business associates nearby, turned to interject. "I don't drag him. Yoongi knows how to get things done without me having to say a word. Unlike you, princess."

"Oh, I get things done," Miso shot back. "I just do it with style."

"She's not wrong," Yoongi added, earning a side hug from Miso.

Taehyung watched the scene unfold from a distance, his expression darkening. His grip on his glass tightened as he observed Miso practically glued to the man.The laughter coming from them was light and carefree, a stark contrast to the usual composed and guarded demeanor Miso carried in public. Taehyung turned his head toward the sound, his sharp gaze just on her .

And there she was, her eyes sparkling with genuine joy, her lips curved into a wide, unrestrained smile. But it wasn't the sight of Miso's happiness that made Taehyung's jaw clench and his grip on his drink tighten. It was the man standing next to her-the man she was practically glued to.

Miso leaned into Yoongi, her best friend, laughing at something he said, her hand lightly resting on his arm as if it was the most natural thing in the world. The sight was unfamiliar to Taehyung. She had always been guarded around him, her walls up, her sass her weapon. But here, with Yoongi, she was completely unfiltered.

His chest tightened. He wasn't sure what it was at first-annoyance? Frustration? No, it was something deeper, something that had been simmering beneath the surface for a while now.

Jealousy.

It wasn't the first time he had seen her with another man, but this felt different. Before, he could brush it off, chalk it up to his protective instincts as her husband or his desire to maintain control. But now, as he watched her laugh so freely, so unguardedly with someone else, it hit him like a punch to the gut.

Every touch, every shared laugh between Miso and Yoongi felt like a sharp jab. It wasn't just annoyance-it was possessiveness.

Taehyung's sharp jawline tightened further as he took a slow sip of his drink, his dark eyes never leaving the pair. He knew Yoongi was her best friend, but logic held no sway over his emotions at this moment.

"Who's that?" Jungkook asked, his curiosity piqued.

Jimin, standing next to him, caught the intensity of Taehyung's glare and smirked knowingly " Don't know," He answered, smirking as he noticed Taehyung's stormy expression. " But you can almost see the jealousy radiating off him."

"Shut it," Taehyung snapped, downing his drink in one go.

Jimin leaned in, grinning mischievously. "This is fun.Looks like someone's not enjoying the reunion over there," he teased, nudging Taehyung lightly. "I've never seen you squirm like this, Tae."

"Shut up,I'm not squirming," Taehyung snapped, his sharp gaze making Jimin laugh even harder.

Hoseok leaned in, his grin mischievous. "You know, if you keep glaring at them like that, you might set something on fire."

"Maybe I should," Taehyung replied coldly, his gaze still locked on Miso and Yoongi.

"She's just talking to him, man. Relax," Jungkook chimed in, though his teasing tone didn't help Taehyung's mood.

"She's not just talking," Taehyung shot back, his voice low and clipped. "She's practically attached to him."

Seokjin chuckled, clearly enjoying the rare sight of Taehyung unsettled. "Who knew the great Kim Taehyung could get jealous?"

Taehyung's glare shifted to his friends, his voice carrying a dangerous edge. "I'm not jealous."

Jimin raised an eyebrow, his grin widening. "Oh, sure. That glare you've been giving that guy could've fooled me."

Taehyung didn't bother responding, instead He again take a long sip of his drink.

Meanwhile, Miso finally released Yoongi but kept her hands on his shoulders. "You look the same. Still intimidating, still effortlessly cool. It's not fair."

"And you're still as dramatic as ever," Yoongi teased, his eyes crinkling.

She laughed, the sound light and carefree. "I missed you, Yoongi."

"I missed you too," he admitted, his voice softer. "It's good to see you happy."

Miso returned to the group with Yoongi in tow, her arm linked with his in a casual yet affectionate gesture. Taehyung's jaw tightened, Taehyung's glare could have frozen lava. Miso, oblivious, introduced Yoongi with a bright smile.

"This is Yoongi, my best friend," she said, her tone brimming with affection.

Yoongi's sharp eyes met Taehyung's as he gave a polite nod. "Kim Taehyung."

"Min Yoongi," Taehyung replied coldly, his tone almost a challenge.

The tension between them was palpable, drawing the attention of everyone in the group.

"I feel like I'm watching a mafia standoff," Hoseok joked.

"Right? It's like they're silently battling for dominance," Jungkook added, grinning.

"Don't give them ideas," Miso said, rolling her eyes. "They'll both take it as a challenge."

"Smart girl," Yoongi said, smirking.

Taehyung's sharp gaze didn't leave Yoongi. "So, you handle business in Busan?"

"I do," Yoongi replied evenly. "And from what I've heard, you've been making good use of the territory."

"It's mine now," Taehyung said coolly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"Of course," Yoongi said, his smirk widening. "But remember, it's only as strong as the alliances behind it."

Before the conversation could escalate, Miso interjected. "Okay, boys, enough with the territorial chest-thumping. Let's get back to enjoying the gala."

The group chuckled, and the conversation shifted to lighter topics, though the undercurrent of tension between Taehyung and Yoongi remained. Miso, however, seemed completely unfazed, her usual sassiness keeping everyone on their toes. Miso was in high spirits, and Taehyung found himself constantly pulled between admiration for her happiness and frustration at how Yoongi seemed to bring it out of her so effortlessly.

---

The grand hall hummed with the soft murmur of conversations, the clinking of glasses, and the occasional burst of laughter. The elegant crowd mingled effortlessly, their polished demeanor reflective of the power and prestige they carried. At the center of it all stood Taehyung and Miso, surrounded by a group of influential business associates.

However, the attention in the room shifted as Taehyung's father, Kim Taemoo, stepped onto the stage. The microphone crackled softly as he tapped it, commanding the room's attention with a single sharp gaze.

"Ladies and gentlemen," his deep, authoritative voice echoed through the hall, silencing the chatter. "May I have your attention, please?"

The crowd turned, all eyes on the elder Kim, their expressions attentive and respectful. Kim Taemoo carried himself with a confidence born from years of dominance in both the corporate and underworld arenas. He adjusted his tailored suit, exuding power as he began his speech.

"It's a privilege to have all of you here tonight," Taemoo began, his tone both commanding and charismatic. "This year has been one of exceptional achievements for the Kims. Our business empire has expanded beyond expectations, with significant milestones reached in technology, finance, and trade."

Polite applause rippled through the audience as Taemoo paused, his sharp gaze sweeping over the crowd.

"But our success isn't limited to just business," he continued, a sly smile playing on his lips. "As many of you know, alliances are the cornerstone of power. Tonight, I am proud to announce the most significant alliance in the history of the Kims."

The room fell into a charged silence, the air thick with anticipation.

"My son, Kim Taehyung, has recently married the daughter of Busan's most powerful man, Kim Jaehyun." His voice rang with pride as he emphasized the names. "This alliance not only strengthens the bond between our families but also brings the Busan territory under Kim control. Together, we are unstoppable."

A wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd, admiration and intrigue evident in their expressions. Many cast curious glances at Miso, who stood near the bar, engaged in an animated conversation with Yoongi.

Taemoo's gaze shifted toward his son. "Taehyung, Miso, please join me on stage."

Taehyung's sharp eyes darted toward Miso, who was entirely absorbed in her conversation with Yoongi. Her laughter rang out, light and carefree, a stark contrast to the formality of the moment.

He cleared his throat, the sound deliberate and commanding.

Miso glanced up, her expression mildly annoyed. "What?" she asked, tilting her head slightly.

"We need to go to the stage," Taehyung whispered coldly, his tone low enough for only her to hear.

Her brows furrowed. "Why?"

Taehyung's patience thinned, and he leaned in closer. "Because my father just announced our marriage to the entire room, and now he wants us on stage. Get up."

Miso rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath, "Could've just said that without the theatrics."

Taehyung didn't respond, instead placing a firm hand on her lower back as he guided her toward the stage. His touch was possessive, his movements controlled, a silent declaration of authority.

---

As Taehyung and Miso stepped onto the stage, the spotlight bathed them in a soft glow, drawing the attention of everyone in the hall. The crowd quieted instantly, their gazes fixed on the powerful couple. Miso's polished white dress shimmered subtly under the lights, her confident poise commanding respect. Taehyung, in a perfectly tailored black suit, exuded authority, his presence alone enough to silence the room.

Kim Taemoo handed Taehyung the microphone, stepping aside to let his son take center stage. Taehyung's sharp eyes scanned the crowd, his expression unreadable but undeniably commanding.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Taehyung began, his deep, resonant voice cutting through the silence. "Thank you for joining us tonight. This gathering is not just a celebration of another successful year for the Kims but a testament to the strength and loyalty that have built this empire."

He paused, letting his words sink in, the weight of his gaze settling on key figures in the room-business magnates, mafia alliances, and influential families.

"The Kims have always thrived on trust, loyalty, and strategic alliances," he continued. "This year, we've expanded our influence beyond borders, secured critical partnerships, and fortified our standing in both the corporate and... alternative arenas."

There was a ripple of knowing chuckles from the crowd at his careful phrasing.

Taehyung's lips curved into a faint, calculated smile. "But success is never achieved alone. It requires a network of people who believe in a shared vision. And now, with the addition of Busan's resources through my marriage to Kim Miso, that vision has grown even stronger."

He turned slightly, gesturing toward Miso, who stood beside him with a serene smile. "Allow me to introduce my wife, Kim Miso. She's not just a reflection of elegance and grace but also a formidable woman who has already proven herself capable of standing by my side in this world."

The audience clapped politely, a few murmurs of admiration reaching their ears.

Miso stepped forward slightly, her voice soft yet confident. "It's an honor to be here tonight and to be part of a legacy as formidable as the Kims. Together, we're creating something unshakable, something that will leave a lasting mark."

As the applause subsided, a man from the crowd raised his hand, his tone laced with curiosity and perhaps a hint of audacity. "Taehyung-ssi, if I may ask, why wasn't your wedding a public affair? Surely, a union of this magnitude deserved a grand celebration."

A tense silence fell over the room, the question hanging in the air. All eyes turned to Taehyung, whose expression hardened slightly, his gaze cutting to the man like a blade.

When Taehyung spoke, his tone was icy but calm, each word deliberate. "Because we have no interest in entertaining unwanted spectators or turning a significant moment into a spectacle. Our marriage is a bond, not a show."

The man shrank back slightly, murmurs of approval spreading through the crowd. Taehyung's authority was unyielding, and his response had silenced any further curiosity.

Taemoo stepped forward with a raised glass, his voice booming with pride. "To the future of the Kims, to loyalty, and to the alliances that make us unstoppable!"

The crowd followed his lead, lifting their glasses high. "To the Kims!"

Taehyung and Miso raised their glasses as well, his hand resting on the small of her back in a subtle but possessive gesture. The room erupted into a symphony of clinking glasses and animated conversation as the gala resumed its lively pace.

As they descended the stage, Miso glanced at Taehyung, her expression neutral but her tone teasing. "Unwanted spectators, huh? I didn't realize you were such a romantic."

Taehyung smirked faintly, his voice low. "Romance has nothing to do with it. I simply value privacy."

"Hmm," Miso mused, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Well, for what it's worth, you handled that pretty well."

Taehyung arched a brow. "You're complimenting me now? Must be the champagne talking."

Miso laughed softly, shaking her head. "Don't get used to it."

With that, they rejoined the crowd, their dynamic once again drawing admiration and whispers from those around them. The night continued, but the memory of their commanding presence on stage lingered in everyone's minds.

---

The atmosphere of the gala grew more vibrant as the music shifted from a soft melody to an upbeat rhythm that beckoned the crowd to the dance floor. The glittering chandeliers above reflected the energy of the room, their light shimmering like stars on the polished marble.

Couples glided across the dance floor, their movements synchronized with the music. Laughter and cheers echoed as the guests enjoyed the festivities, lost in their own worlds. Taehyung, however, stood at the edge of the crowd, his expression unreadable. His friends-Jimin, Hoseok, Seokjin, and Jungkook-hovered nearby, glasses of champagne in hand, sharing lighthearted banter.

Across the room, Miso stood with Yoongi, their conversation punctuated by her soft laughter. Taehyung's eyes narrowed slightly, his sharp gaze flickering between them. He couldn't pinpoint what irked him more-the way she smiled so freely at Yoongi or the easy camaraderie they shared that seemed to exclude him entirely.

Jimin, ever the instigator, noticed Taehyung's brooding demeanor and smirked. Leaning closer, he said in a low, teasing voice, "Tae, you might want to do something before people start thinking your wife has better options."

Taehyung turned his head, his expression cold and unamused. "Don't start, Jimin."

"But I'm serious," Jimin continued, unfazed. "Look at them. They're practically the highlight of the evening. If you don't step in soon, Yoongi might just steal her away."

Taehyung's jaw tightened, but he said nothing. His silence only encouraged Hoseok, who chimed in with a grin. "He's right, you know. The way she's looking at him, it's almost like she's about to propose."

"Hyung, imagine the headlines tomorrow," Jungkook added, trying to stifle his laughter. "'Kim Taehyung Loses Wife to Best Friend at Gala.'"

"Shut up," Taehyung muttered, his tone sharp enough to make them laugh even harder.

Jimin nudged him with a smirk. "Tae, if looks could kill, Yoongi would've dropped dead already."

Taehyung didn't respond. His grip on the glass tightened slightly, his cold expression masking the turmoil beneath.

"Maybe you should just go ask her for a dance," Jungkook suggested, half-serious. "You know, remind everyone who she really belongs to."

"Don't push me," Taehyung replied, his voice colder than the champagne in his glass.

But his friends weren't done.

"Honestly, Taehyung, if you keep glaring at Yoongi like that, someone might think you're jealous," Hoseok teased, earning a chuckle from the others.

Taehyung ignored them, but his attention remained fixed on Miso. He hated how she was so at ease around Yoongi, how she laughed so freely, how she wasn't paying him a single glance. He was her husband, yet she acted as though he was invisible.

Then it happened. The music shifted into something lighter, enticing couples to take to the dance floor. The chatter died down momentarily, replaced by the rustle of fabric and the sound of footsteps. Yet Taehyung stayed rooted to his spot, his friends surrounding him, each waiting to see what he would do.

"You're going to miss your chance," Jimin said, raising his glass in amusement.

But Taehyung didn't move. Not until the crowd erupted into cheers.

Before he could retort further, the sound of cheers and applause drew their attention. The crowd had parted slightly, their focus now on the dance floor. Taehyung's eyes followed the commotion, and his gaze darkened at what he saw.

There, in the middle of the floor, was Miso, dancing with Yoongi.

The pair was at the center of the dance floor, moving in perfect harmony. Miso's dress flowed elegantly as Yoongi spun her, the train of her gown catching the light like a silken whisper. She looked radiant, her every move effortless, her laughter drawing admiration from everyone around them.

Taehyung's friends watched him closely, their amusement growing.

Jimin let out a low whistle. "Wow. They're stealing the show. You better do something. Or people might start thinking Yoongi is the real husband here."

Hoseok chuckled. "If you don't step in, Taehyung, people might actually think Miso belongs to Yoongi."

Taehyung's glare could have frozen the champagne in their glasses, but the teasing didn't stop.

"Come on, Taehyung," Seokjin said, feigning seriousness. "You're the husband here. Shouldn't you be the one dancing with her?"

Taehyung's grip on his glass tightened, the faintest crack appearing at the edge of his composure. He had never been one for public displays, especially not in front of such a large crowd. Yet seeing Miso so carefree, so... unattainable, made something inside him churn.

"She's my wife," he finally said, his voice low but resolute.

"And you're standing here," Jungkook quipped.

The crowd's applause grew louder as Yoongi spun Miso again, their chemistry undeniable. Miso, in her element, didn't seem to notice the eyes on her-or the icy stare from her husband.

Taehyung finally spoke, his voice cold as ice. "Enough."

----

Hi, lovely readers!
I hope you're enjoying the story so far. I wanted to let you know that this chapter ended up being much longer than expected—almost 20,000 words! To make it more manageable and enjoyable for you, I decided to split it into three separate chapters. This is the first part, focusing on the initial events and setting the tone.

Thank you for your patience and support! Don’t worry; the next parts are just as exciting and will be uploaded soon. Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

Much love,
StarlitWings

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