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StarlitWings ✨

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Taehyung's chest tightened, and he stepped forward, his gaze lingering on Miso as she calmed in Yoongi's arms. He wanted to comfort her, to be the one to make everything right, but he felt so lost. Why can't I do this for her? he thought, his hand hovering awkwardly in the air before he dropped it to his side. The helplessness gnawed at him.

Yoongi, sensing Taehyung's discomfort, gave a small, understanding nod, as though acknowledging the complicated emotions Taehyung was feeling. "Taehyung," Yoongi said, his tone firm but gentle, "Miso needs some sweets. It'll help her feel better. Go and bring her something she likes. I'll take care of her in the meantime."

Taehyung didn't hesitate. Without a word, he turned on his heel and walked toward the dessert table, the weight of the situation pressing on him with every step. As he walked away, he couldn't shake the feeling that he was failing Miso. Why is she like this? What happened to her? His mind continued to spin with unanswered questions, but he pushed them aside for now, focusing only on getting something that might help her.

Meanwhile, Yoongi held Miso close, still whispering soft reassurances. "You're okay, little one. Everything will be alright. Just breathe for me, okay?"

Miso nodded silently against his chest, her tiny hands clutching his shirt. Her body was still tense, but her breathing was evening out. She stayed in Yoongi's embrace, her tear-streaked face buried against him, as the sound of her sobs faded into the background.

When Taehyung returned with a tray of sweets, Miso lifted her head from Yoongi's chest, her eyes still red but now filled with a glimmer of interest. She looked at the assortment of desserts in Taehyung's hands, her small mouth curling into a tiny pout.

"Is that for me?" she asked, her voice light and childlike now, the terror that had gripped her only moments ago fading slightly.

Taehyung smiled faintly, relieved to see her distracted, even if just a little. "Yes, it's all for you, little bunny," he said, offering her the tray with a soft chuckle.

Miso's eyes sparkled, and she immediately reached for a small cake with pink icing and a delicate swirl of cream. Her hands were still shaking, but she seemed calmer now, her little space helping her to forget the fear that had nearly overtaken her. As she took the first bite, her expression softened, and she closed her eyes in pleasure.

"Mmm, it's so yummy!" she said, her voice now completely light and carefree. Her earlier anxiety seemed to evaporate as she enjoyed the sweetness of the cake, her face lighting up as if she had completely forgotten the darkness that had momentarily consumed her.

Yoongi watched her, his eyes soft with understanding. He knew that Miso's little space was the only place where she could feel safe, where she could find comfort after whatever had shaken her. His heart ached for her, but at least for now, she was at peace.

As Miso continued to nibble on the desserts, Yoongi exchanged a look with Taehyung, his eyes filled with a mix of sympathy and resolve. Taehyung could see it, too-the way Miso was slowly becoming her true self again, the playful and sweet child who had once been his fiancée. But even as Miso indulged in the treats, Taehyung couldn't shake the lingering worry that gnawed at him.

"Miso's not okay," Yoongi muttered quietly, though loud enough for Taehyung to hear. "You know that, right?"

Taehyung nodded, his jaw tightening. He had no words to explain the feeling of helplessness building in his chest. "I don't understand what's going on with her. Why is she like this?"

Yoongi sighed and stood up, gently prying Miso from his lap and placing her back on the couch, where she could enjoy her sweets without clinging to him. "Look," Yoongi said, his tone matter-of-fact, "she's not ready for this kind of crowd. You can take care of your guests. I'll handle Miso. She's safe with me."

Taehyung hesitated for a moment, his gaze flickering back to Miso, who was now completely lost in the joy of the sweet treats. Her earlier distress seemed to have disappeared for now, but Taehyung's gut twisted. He didn't want to leave her like this, but Yoongi was right. Miso needed someone who understood her better in these moments.

"Alright," Taehyung said softly, his voice filled with a mix of reluctance and surrender. "I'll... I'll take care of my guests. You make sure she's okay."

Yoongi nodded, his eyes unwavering as he looked back at Miso. "I will."

As Taehyung walked away, his heart heavy, he couldn't shake the feeling of dread that lingered. He didn't know what had happened to Miso, what that terrifying person meant for her. But for now, he had to trust Yoongi to help her through it.

Miso, for her part, didn't notice the emotional exchange between the two men. She was too busy savoring the sweet treats in front of her, her face lit up with the innocence of a child who had forgotten the worries of the world-if only for a little while.

----

As the night stretched on, Taehyung stood in the midst of the gala, his mind racing with a flood of emotions. His eyes kept darting toward Miso, who, with Yoongi's care, had started to relax more. Yet, the unease in his heart remained. There were so many questions he needed answers to, and Miso's sudden breakdown had thrown him off balance.

He couldn't understand what had happened to her. The fear, the vulnerability-she had been so different just a few moments ago. What had triggered this? Was it that mysterious person? The thought gnawed at him, and even though she seemed somewhat better now, the worry didn't leave his chest.

Deep inside, Taehyung knew that whatever had caused Miso to slip into her little space, whatever had made her break down like that, he wasn't going to leave her. He couldn't. Not after everything. He loved her. He wanted to protect her. And no matter what shadow from her past haunted her, he would stand by her side.

I won't leave, he vowed to himself, his mind firm and resolute. He had never been one to shy away from a challenge, but this felt different. This was more than just a battle for power, wealth, or status. This was about Miso. About her heart, her fears, her trauma.

Taehyung glanced over at Yoongi, who was still seated beside Miso, talking to her softly. Miso, despite her earlier tears, was now in her little space, enjoying her sweets and the safety Yoongi provided. Yoongi glanced up at Taehyung and gave a small, understanding nod, as if to reassure him that Miso was okay for the moment.

Taking a deep breath, Taehyung steeled himself. I can't show weakness, he thought, his eyes narrowing with determination. He would let nothing disturb his resolve. He would act like everything was normal-like tonight's chaos hadn't even happened. At least, until he could get Miso alone and figure out what was really going on.

He turned to his father, who was engaged in a conversation with some other guests. His father's cold gaze met his, but Taehyung didn't flinch. It had always been like this with his father-taut, impersonal. There was no warmth in Kim Taemoo's eyes, only calculation and control. But tonight, Taehyung had no time for pleasantries. He had his own plans.

"Father," Taehyung said, his voice sharp and clear, breaking into his father's conversation. "I'll be leaving soon."

Kim Taemoo raised an eyebrow, his expression impassive. "Already? The night's still young."

Taehyung's gaze didn't waver. "I'm not asking for your permission. I'm just informing you."

His father's eyes darkened for a moment, the subtle shift in his expression hinting at irritation. But Taehyung didn't care. He wasn't here to please his father or to play by his rules. His focus was elsewhere now-on Miso, on understanding what had caused the emotional upheaval he had just witnessed, and on getting her out of this gala where she didn't belong.

Kim Taemoo's lips curled into a slight smirk, but it wasn't one that reached his eyes. "Very well, Taehyung. Do as you please. But remember, we still have a lot to discuss about the business."

Taehyung nodded curtly. "Of course. Another time."

----

Taehyung made his way back to the gala hall, his footsteps purposeful yet hesitant. The earlier events of the evening weighed heavily on his mind. Miso's sudden slip into her little space had caught him off guard, leaving him feeling powerless in a way he hadn't experienced before. As much as he hated to admit it, Yoongi had been right to step in and take charge of the situation. It stung his pride a little, but deep down, Taehyung was thankful for his friend's steady presence.

When he reached the hall, his eyes scanned the crowd, searching for her familiar figure. His heart eased the moment he spotted her, seated at a low table surrounded by Yoongi and his closest friends. Miso was giggling, her hands clapping together in excitement as she playfully interacted with the men. She looked so carefree, so childlike, that for a moment, Taehyung felt as though he was seeing a completely different side of her-a side that he realized she might have been hiding all along.

Yoongi sat beside her, his expression calm and protective as he watched her with an almost brotherly fondness. Every now and then, he leaned in to whisper something to her, earning an enthusiastic nod or a bright, innocent laugh. It was clear he was guiding her through her little space, ensuring she stayed comfortable and safe.

To Yoongi's left sat Jungkook, who was teasing Miso with a piece of dessert he held just out of her reach. "You can't have it unless you say the magic word," he teased, grinning.

"Please?" Miso said sweetly, her voice laced with a childlike innocence.

Jungkook's grin widened. "Nope. That's not it."

She puffed out her cheeks in an adorable pout, crossing her arms. "Fine! I don't want it anymore!" she declared, turning away dramatically, causing the entire group to laugh.

Beside Jungkook, Jimin leaned back in his chair, shaking his head with a smile. "Don't mess with her, Jungkook. She'll outsmart you if you're not careful."

"Hey, I'm just teaching her patience," Jungkook shot back, though he immediately relented, placing the dessert in front of her with a sheepish grin. "Here, little one. Don't be mad at me."

Miso lit up instantly, her earlier pout vanishing as she grabbed the dessert. "Thank you, Kookie!" she chirped, her tone so genuinely cheerful that it tugged at Taehyung's heart.

Jin, ever the charismatic one, was gently teasing Miso as she sat on the floor, legs crossed and happily munching on a small plate of desserts Yoongi had brought her earlier.

"Miso-ya," Jin said dramatically, placing a hand over his chest as if he were deeply offended. "How come you didn't ask for my opinion on desserts? Don't you know I'm the worldwide handsome expert in all things food?"

Miso, still in her little space, blinked up at him with wide eyes. "Worldwide handsome?" she repeated innocently, tilting her head. "But Jinie- oppa, you don't look like strawberry cake..."

The group burst into laughter, and Jin feigned being deeply wounded, staggering back a step. "You wound me, little one! Do you know how many hearts you've broken with that statement?"

Miso giggled, clapping her hands. "I like chocolate cake more, though! It's yummy!"

Hoseok crouched down beside her, his signature bright grin lighting up his face. "Miso-ah, if chocolate cake is your favorite, then I'll make sure we bring you the best one next time, okay?"

Her eyes lit up. "Really, Hobi- oppa?" she asked, her voice brimming with excitement.

"Of course!" Hoseok said with a wink. "But only if you promise to save me a piece."

Miso nodded enthusiastically, her childlike joy contagious. "Okay! But only if you promise to share your gummy bears next time!"

"Deal!" Hoseok said, holding out his pinky for a promise, which Miso eagerly hooked with her own.

Taehyung lingered in the shadows for a moment, watching the scene unfold. It was a strange sight-his wife, the fierce and sassy woman who had faced him down countless times, now laughing and playing with his friends like a little sister. And they... they treated her exactly that way. Not as the wife of the cold and calculating Taehyung, nor as the daughter of the infamous mafia boss, but as someone they genuinely cared for.

A deep sense of gratitude welled up inside him. When he had first told his friends about Miso's condition, he had been apprehensive. It wasn't easy for him to admit that his wife had vulnerabilities, that she sometimes needed protection in ways that he wasn't always equipped to provide. But they hadn't judged her. They hadn't dismissed her. Instead, they had embraced her with open arms, understanding the weight she carried and the coping mechanism she had developed to survive it.

And now, seeing them with her, Taehyung felt an overwhelming sense of relief. He knew, without a doubt, that these were the men he could trust with her. No matter what the future held, no matter what dangers or challenges arose, they would protect her. They would stand by her side, just as they always had with him.

Still, his gaze lingered on Yoongi. There was something about the way he handled Miso that struck Taehyung deeply. Yoongi's calm, steady presence had always been an anchor in Miso's life. It was Yoongi who had stepped in earlier, who had soothed her and kept her from unraveling further. And it was Yoongi who now sat beside her, ensuring she felt safe and loved.

As much as Taehyung hated to admit it, there was a pang of jealousy buried beneath his gratitude. Miso trusted Yoongi in a way she didn't yet trust him. It wasn't anyone's fault, least of all hers, but it still stung. He wanted to be the one she turned to, the one she leaned on in her most vulnerable moments. And yet, as he watched her laugh with the group, her cheeks glowing with happiness, he realized something important.

This is what she needs, he thought. This is what makes her feel safe.

But then, something caught his eye. Among the group, standing a little apart but still engaged, was Yang-one of his most trusted men and Miso's assigned bodyguard. Yang wasn't supposed to be here. His duty was outside the gala hall, monitoring the perimeters with the other security personnel. Yet here he was, mingling casually with the group as though it were the most natural thing in the world.

Taehyung's sharp eyes narrowed, and his demeanor shifted instantly. Straightening his suit jacket, he strode over to where Yang stood, his usual commanding presence filling the space.

"Yang," Taehyung called out, his voice calm but laced with an edge that immediately caught the man's attention. Yang turned, his expression neutral but respectful as always.

"Boss," Yang greeted with a slight bow.

"What are you doing here?" Taehyung asked, his tone clipped, though he kept his voice low enough not to disturb the others. "You're supposed to be outside with the rest of the team."

Yang's lips twitched into the faintest hint of a smirk-something Taehyung rarely saw from his usually stoic bodyguard. "Miso asked me to come," he replied, his tone calm but with a trace of amusement.

Taehyung's eyes flicked toward Miso, who was now trying to persuade Jungkook to give her another dessert. He arched an eyebrow, his displeasure evident. "She asked you?"

Yang nodded. "She said she missed her friend and insisted I join her."

At that, Taehyung's jaw tightened. He was about to retort, to remind Yang that his duties came before any personal requests, even from Miso, but before he could say a word, Miso's soft, childlike voice broke through.

"Yangie is my friend!" she said, her tone innocent yet full of conviction as she turned to look at them. Her big, wide eyes blinked up at Taehyung, completely unaware of the tension in the air. "I wanted him here. He makes me feel safe."

Taehyung froze. Her words, simple as they were, struck a chord deep within him. He glanced at Yang, who merely stood there, expression calm and unbothered, and then back at Miso. She wasn't wrong-Yang was one of the few people Taehyung trusted implicitly, and if his presence brought her comfort, how could he argue against it?

Letting out a soft sigh, Taehyung bit back whatever sharp comment had been on the tip of his tongue. Instead, he gave a curt nod. "Fine," he said, his tone softer now. "But you should have informed me."

Yang inclined his head slightly. "Understood, Boss."

Taehyung's attention shifted back to Miso as she returned to the group, her cheerful chatter filling the space once more. He watched as Yang subtly positioned himself nearby, always within her line of sight but never intruding. Miso, still in her little space, seemed completely at ease, bouncing between conversations with Yoongi, Jungkook, Jimin, and now Yang.

Jungkook was trying to teach her a silly hand game, and her giggles filled the air as she fumbled through the motions. "No, no, like this!" Jungkook said, laughing as he demonstrated again.

"I'm trying!" Miso protested, puffing her cheeks in mock frustration before dissolving into laughter.

Yang, for his part, remained mostly silent, but there was a noticeable softness in his usually stern demeanor. When Miso turned to him, asking his opinion on something trivial, he responded with a small smile and a calm, reassuring answer that made her beam with happiness.

Taehyung watched it all unfold, his chest tightening with a mix of emotions he couldn't quite name. Seeing Miso like this, surrounded by people who genuinely cared for her, who treated her with the same affection and protectiveness he felt, brought a strange sense of relief.

His gaze shifted to each of the men around her-Yoongi, ever the steady and calming presence; Jungkook, playful and kindhearted; Jimin, always ready with a reassuring smile or a teasing remark; and Yang, silent but steadfast. Each of them, in their own way, had embraced Miso, not just as his wife but as someone they wanted to protect and care for.

For the first time that evening, Taehyung felt a small measure of peace. He realized that these were the men he could trust implicitly with Miso. Whatever challenges or dangers the future held, he knew they would stand by her side, just as they always had with him.

His lips curved into the faintest hint of a smile as he watched her laugh, her earlier fear and panic seemingly forgotten. But deep down, the protective fire in him burned brighter than ever. Whatever-or whoever-had caused her to slip into her little space tonight, Taehyung would find out. And when he did, he would ensure that they never had the chance to hurt her again.

For now, though, he allowed himself to linger in this moment, watching Miso interact with his friends with a lightness that reminded him of why he was so determined to protect her. She was his wife, his responsibility, and above all, the one person who had managed to crack through the walls he'd built around his heart. And for her, he would do whatever it took.

----

The conversation about heading home began when Jin casually mentioned the hour. "It's getting late, Taehyung-ah. Don't you think it's time to take Miso home?"

Taehyung nodded thoughtfully, glancing down at Miso, who was still happily engaged in conversation with Yoongi. She was sitting on the barstool, her childlike innocence glowing as she playfully poked Yoongi's cheek.

Yoongi smiled, holding her hand gently. "Alright, little one, it's time to go home."

But as Yoongi began to rise, pulling Miso up with him, she clung tightly to his hand, her lips trembling in a pout. "No! I don't wanna leave Yoonie!" she exclaimed, her voice holding the distinct whine of her little space.

Yoongi froze for a moment, clearly unsure how to respond. He looked over at Taehyung, who had already risen to his feet, an eyebrow quirking in amusement.

"Miso-ya," Taehyung said smoothly, crouching to her level. "We're all going home together. Come now, let go of Yoongi's hand."

"No!" she insisted, holding Yoongi's hand tighter. "Yoonie has to come too! Please, Daddy?"

The room fell silent for a beat as Taehyung studied her expression. Finally, with a sigh, he straightened and looked at Yoongi. “You heard her,” he said, a smirk tugging at his lips. “I guess you’re invited to the penthouse, too.”

Yoongi chuckled lightly. “Guess I don’t have much of a choice,” he said, gently patting Miso’s head.

Yang, ever the dutiful bodyguard, had already stepped outside to ready the car. As they all walked to the entrance, Yin held the door open, while Yang opened the car’s rear door for Taehyung.

“Bunny,” Taehyung said softly, guiding her toward the car.

She hesitated for a moment, looking back at Yoongi, then followed Taehyung. Once inside, she climbed into the back seat, situating herself squarely between Taehyung and Yoongi. Taehyung’s arm rested protectively on the back of the seat behind her, while Yoongi held her hand to keep her comforted.

Yin started the car, and the ride to the penthouse was quiet but filled with warmth. Miso leaned her head against Yoongi’s shoulder, her eyelids drooping as the night’s events took their toll. By the time they arrived at the penthouse, she was fast asleep, her breaths soft and even.

Yang opened the car door for Taehyung, and Yoongi moved to lift Miso, but Taehyung’s hand shot out, stopping him.

“I’ll take my wife,” Taehyung said firmly, though his tone was calm. “You don’t need to worry about her.”

Yoongi raised an eyebrow but stepped aside, letting Taehyung take over. Taehyung carefully scooped Miso into his arms, cradling her like she was the most delicate thing in the world.

Yang and Yoongi led the way up to the penthouse, Taehyung following closely behind. Once inside, Yoongi and Yang exchanged brief pleasantries, knowing Taehyung would want some privacy. They disappeared into the living area as Taehyung carried Miso into his bedroom.

He laid her down gently on the bed, careful not to wake her. Slowly, he removed her heels, setting them neatly aside, and unclasped the delicate mask she’d worn, placing it on the nightstand. Her hair spilled across the pillow like a halo, and Taehyung took a moment to admire her peaceful expression.

Reaching for the duvet, he pulled it over her, tucking her in with care. Then, remembering her dislike of the dark, he turned off the main light but switched on the special mood lamp—a soft, warm glow that filled the room without being harsh.

Taehyung stood there for a moment, watching her sleep. His jaw tightened as he thought back to the gala and the mysterious figure that had clearly terrified her. He didn’t know who it was yet, but one thing was certain: whoever or whatever had caused her distress would pay.

For now, though, all he could do was ensure she felt safe and protected in the sanctuary of their home.

As Taehyung descended the staircase into the living room, the soft glow of the overhead lights illuminated the space. Yoongi was seated on the couch, his posture relaxed, but his expression somber. When Yoongi noticed Taehyung entering, he stood, his usual composed demeanor tinged with a hint of concern.

Yoongi approached Taehyung, his voice low but serious. “Whatever happened at the gala tonight, Taehyung, it’s not something to take lightly. Miso doesn’t react like that unless something significant triggers it.”

Taehyung crossed his arms, his sharp gaze fixed on Yoongi. He nodded, his expression unreadable. “I figured as much. But I need to know more. About her little space—what causes it, why it started. I need to understand her past.” His tone was calm, but there was a resolute undertone, a promise that he would uncover the truth.

Yoongi sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I understand your curiosity, but it’s not my place to tell you about her past or why she retreats into her little space. If you really want to know, you’ll have to hear it from her. She’s the only one who can decide when or if she wants to share that part of herself.”

Taehyung’s jaw tightened, and he exhaled through his nose, clearly frustrated but accepting Yoongi’s point. He glanced back toward the staircase leading to their bedroom, his mind heavy with unanswered questions.

Yoongi placed a firm hand on Taehyung’s shoulder. “You care about her now; that much is obvious. And because of that, I’m confident she’s in safe hands. Whatever happened tonight, just make sure she feels secure. That’s all she needs right now.”

Taehyung met Yoongi’s gaze, his eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and determination. “I will. No matter what it takes.”

Satisfied, Yoongi gave a faint smile and added, “Take it one step at a time, Taehyung. She’ll open up to you when she’s ready.” With that, Yoongi gave his shoulder a light pat before stepping back.

Taehyung turned to Yang, who was waiting near the doorway. “Assist Yoongi to the guest room,” Taehyung ordered, his voice firm but polite.

Yang nodded, gesturing for Yoongi to follow him. Yoongi cast one last glance at Taehyung before heading toward the guest quarters.

Once the living room was empty, Taehyung lingered for a moment, his mind replaying the events of the night. The image of Miso trembling, clutching Yoongi, and slipping into her little space haunted him. He hated how helpless he’d felt in the moment and resolved to ensure it never happened again.

He walked back upstairs, his steps slower this time. When he entered his bedroom, the soft glow of the mood lamp bathed the space in warmth. Miso was still sound asleep, her delicate features relaxed against the pillow.

Taehyung approached her side quietly, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. The sight of her peaceful expression was both a relief and a reminder of how vulnerable she could be.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, he leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees as he stared at the floor. His thoughts swirled with determination. He didn’t just want to know her past for the sake of knowing—he wanted to understand her, to protect her from whatever demons haunted her.

“I’ll find out everything,” he murmured softly to himself, his voice barely audible. “And I’ll make sure nothing hurts you again.”

With that vow lingering in his mind, he stood, moving to the other side of the bed. He slipped under the duvet carefully, ensuring he didn’t disturb her. As he lay there, staring at the ceiling, his thoughts remained focused on her safety, the mysterious figure from the gala, and the secrets she carried.

Eventually, the exhaustion from the night’s events overtook him, and he drifted into a restless sleep, his protective instincts and determination stronger than ever.

----

Hey there, amazing readers!

We’ve finally reached the last part of the extra-long chapter that I split into three. Thank you for sticking with me through this journey! This part ties up the events and emotions from the previous sections, so I hope it’s worth the wait.

I can’t wait to hear what you think about how this chapter turned out. Feel free to share your thoughts—I love reading them!

Happy reading,
StarlitWings