Chapter 9: (Aaira's pov)

As I quickly closed my journal, my body shivering from the intensity of my emotions, I glanced in the mirror. Jungkook was still sleeping there, undisturbed by my turmoil. Relief washed over me; I was safe, back in my palace.

I held my head between both hands, trying to steady my breathing as I knelt down, my knees pressing into the cold floor. The throbbing pain in my head was relentless, a physical manifestation of the chaos within me.

Aaira: Get it together, Aaira. You need to be strong.

I whispered to myself, the words barely audible as I tried to summon the strength to stand. The weight of everything I had been holding in threatened to crush me, but I couldn't let it.

My body started trembling uncontrollably, my feet rapidly tapping the floor as if trying to escape the unbearable pressure building inside me. The tears I had been holding back for so long began slipping from my eyes, hot and unrelenting, tracing wet paths down my cheeks.

My breath came in ragged gasps, each inhaling a struggle against the sobs that threatened to break free. My hands, clammy and cold, clutched at my sides as if trying to anchor myself to reality.

The room around me blurred through the haze of tears, my vision swimming with the torrent of emotions I could no longer suppress. My chest tightening with the effort to keep from collapsing entirely. I felt as though I was on the edge of breaking, teetering on a precipice with no clear way back to solid ground.

With a deep, shuddering breath, I forced myself to rise, my movements slow and deliberate. The room seemed to spin for a moment before settling, the familiar surroundings of my sanctuary grounding me. I needed to focus, to find a way to clear my mind.

I walked over to the window, pushing it open and letting the cool evening air wash over me. The gentle breeze was a soothing balm to my troubled thoughts. I closed my eyes, leaning against the window frame.

Aaira: I will get through this. I have to.

With those whispered words to myself, I turned away from the window, my gaze falling on Jungkook and Aimin sleeping peacefully. Tears still streamed down my face, silent witnesses to the pain and uncertainty I felt.

Stealing myself, I walked past them, my heart aching with every step. Sitting beside Jungkook, I gently took his hands in mine. Even in sleep, he held onto my hands with a reassuring strength. I interlaced our fingers together.

Holding his hands in mine, I marveled that even in sleep. Our fingers intertwined naturally, as if they were made to fit together.

Leaning in, I pressed my lips against his, a tender kiss filled with love and longing. To my surprise, he responded, instinctively reciprocating even in his slumber. The familiarity of his kiss, the way he held me close, offered a brief moment of solace amid the storm raging inside me.

Aaira: I love you, Jungkook.

I whispered softly against his ear, my voice barely a breath, I pulled back slightly and brushed my fingers lightly against his cheek. Jungkook shifted slightly, sensing my distress, and I leaned my head against his chest, trying to hold back the tears threatening to spill over.

His hand gently found its way to my back, a soothing presence as he whispered, Jungkook's whispered words touched my heart deeply.

Jungkook: You can cry your heart out, Aaira. I'm here, I'm listening.

His words were a balm to my wounded soul, offering me permission to release the pent-up emotions I had been holding back. His voice was calm and filled with understanding, inviting me to release the pain I had been holding back.

Jungkook: It's okay.

He murmured softly,

Jungkook: No one is going to say anything to you. Just let it out.

My body trembled against him, I allowed myself to finally cry. Tears streamed down my cheeks, and each sob released a fraction of the pain and fear that had been building inside me. Jungkook held me close, his arms a secure embrace that offered comfort and strength.

Jungkook: It's alright.

He reassured me gently, his hand rubbing soothing circles on my back.

Jungkook: Aaira, You're safe here with me.

I clung to him, In that moment, I let go of the walls I had built around my heart, allowing myself to be vulnerable in his arms. As the tears slowly subsided, I lifted my head to look at him. Through the tears in my eyes, I managed a small smile.

Aaira: Thank you, Jungkook. I don't know what I'd do without you.

He leaned in, his lips finding mine in a tender kiss. His touch was gentle yet reassuring, and his warmth seeped into me, making me feel safe. I loved it when he did that, when he kissed me like he was pouring his soul into mine, wrapping me in a cocoon of love.

Jungkook: You don't have to thank me, Aaira. I'm always here for you.

He whispered against my lips. His kisses trailed from my lips to my cheeks, wiping away the remnants of my tears. His tenderness was a balm to my wounded heart, and for the first time in what felt like ages, I felt safe.

── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ── "In his embrace, I felt the cracks in my soul start to heal." ── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ──

I nodded, believing his words, feeling the strength of his promise. His hands cupped my face, and he kissed me again, deeper this time, as if trying to erase all my fears and doubts. I melted into him, losing myself in the sensation of his lips on mine, his hands holding me as if I was the most precious thing in the world.

Jungkook: I love you, Aaira.

His words were a soft murmur against my skin, a vow that resonated deep within me. I held onto him tightly, my heart swelling with love.

Aaira: More than words can say.

Jungkook's hand trailed down my back, finding the lock of my dress. His touch sent shivers down my spine, and I could feel the heat between us building.

Just as the moment was about to escalate, Aimin's cry pierced the air. Jungkook's face twisted into a comically disappointed expression, and he let out a playful groan.

Jungkook: You all should see this.

I couldn't help but burst into laughter, his reaction too cute to ignore. Aimin's cries continued, and I quickly picked him up, cradling him in my arms.

Aaira: Oh, Aimin, you have the perfect timing, don't you?

Still laughing, I carried Aimin towards the balcony, ignoring Jungkook's exaggerated pout. As I stepped outside, the cool evening air brushed against my skin, soothing the remnants of my earlier distress. Aimin's cries subsided as he nestled into my shoulder, his tiny fingers clutching at my dress.

Aaira: Look at the sky, Aimin. Aren't the clouds beautiful?

I whispered softly, pointing out the late evening clouds in the sky. Aimin's wide eyes followed my finger, his tears forgotten in the wonder of the evening. I glanced back at Jungkook, who was leaning against the doorway, a smile tugging at his lips.

Jungkook: He definitely knows how to steal the spotlight.

Aaira: Well, he is your son, after all.

Jungkook chuckled, stepping out onto the balcony to join us. He wrapped an arm around my waist, pulling us both close.

Jungkook: I guess we'll have to continue our moment later.

Aaira: Well, I guess not today.

I replied, leaning my head against his shoulder. The three of us stood there, bathed in the gentle glow of the orange sky, I noticed Seokjin standing in the garden, his hand resting on his waist with a slight pout on his face.

I couldn't help but chuckle, almost laughing at his expression. Jungkook glanced over to me, his eyes darkening slightly as his hands tightened on my waist.

Aaira: Seokjin always has that look when he's waiting for attention, doesn't he?

Jungkook's gaze sharpened, a hint of possessiveness flickering in his eyes. I felt a pang of caution; I couldn't afford to provoke him, especially not now.

Jungkook: Ignore him. He can wait.

His voice was low and controlled, but I sensed the underlying tension. I nodded silently, not wanting to disturb the tranquility of the evening. Aimin shifted in my arms, drawing my attention back to him.

Aimin: Mumma, look!

He pointed excitedly at a bird perched on the balcony railing, his eyes wide with wonder. I smiled, guiding his gaze towards the feathered visitor.

Aaira: It's beautiful, isn't it?

Jungkook relaxed slightly, his grip on my waist loosening as he watched Aimin's fascination with the bird. I took a deep breath, grateful for the distraction.

The moment and the atmosphere seemed peaceful until Seokjin's voice called out to us from the garden. Aimin and I turned towards his direction, my smile widening at the sight of Seokjin's playful antics.

Seokjin: Hey, look over here! What are you two doing?

Aimin giggled, his attention torn between the bird and Seokjin's antics. Jungkook's expression shifted subtly, his gaze turning from Seokjin to me and then back again, he turned his head from right to left, his gaze darkening. I gulped.

Aaira: Lord Kim, we were just enjoying the evening. Aimin found a bird.

Jungkook's hand on my waist tightened, I swallowed, knowing that Seokjin was the least of his concerns when it came to family dynamics. Despite any jealousy or tension, I knew Jungkook valued family unity above all else, right ?

Seokjin grinned, strolling closer to us.

Seokjin: Ah, I see. Birds can be fascinating, can't they, Aimin?

Aimin nodded enthusiastically, his eyes still fixed on the feathered visitor.

Seokjin: Jungkook, why don't you join us down here? It's a beautiful evening.

Jungkook's jaw tightened slightly, but he nodded curtly, though his eyes remained wary. He released his hold on my waist, stepping closer to us with measured steps.

Jungkook: Sure, Hyung.

His tone was polite but guarded. I glanced at Seokjin. Aimin tugged at my hand, pulling me towards the bird again.

Aimin: Mumma, look!

As Aimin tugged my hand excitedly towards the bird, Seokjin spoke again.

Seokjin: Come outside, we're having a family tea evening.

His playful pout and hands on his waist added to the whimsical invitation, the slight pout on his face made me chuckle inwardly. Seokjin always knew how to lighten the mood, even in the midst of subtle tension. I glanced over at Jungkook, whose frustration was evident as he bit his lip, his gaze flickering between Seokjin and me.

Aaira: That sounds lovely, Seokjin. Let me arrange for the tea stall.

I turned to Jungkook, offering a reassuring smile despite sensing his jealousy.

Aaira: Jungkook, would you mind helping me with the arrangements?

As Aimin grabbed my face to force me to look at the bird again, I couldn't help but smile at his innocent enthusiasm. However, Jungkook's bitter chuckle drew my attention back to him.

Jungkook: Go and do it with someone else. I'm not interested.

With those words, he gently took Aimin from my arms and walked away, leaving me standing there, taken aback by his abrupt departure. I knew Jungkook was sensitive to brothers presence and their interactions with me, but his reaction seemed more intense than usual.

Aaira: Jungkook, wait...

But he didn't turn back. Aimin looked back at me with concern. I sighed softly, then turned my attention to Seokjin who was waiting for us outside.

As I walked downstairs, following Seokjin and Aimin, my eyes briefly glanced towards the passage leading to the basement. A chill ran down my spine, a lingering sense of dread tugging at my thoughts. Memories of the basement and its haunting secrets flooded my mind, but I pushed them aside resolutely.

The evening sunlight bathed the courtyard in a warm glow, contrasting sharply with the shadows that seemed to cling to the basement entrance. I quickened my pace, determined to shake off the unease that threatened to overwhelm me. Jungkook was here, and I couldn't risk delving into those dark memories now.

Seokjin glanced back at me,

Seokjin: Aaira, are you alright?

I forced a smile,

Aaira: Yes, Seokjin. Just lost in thought.

We reached the garden where a small table was set up with tea and snacks. Aimin darted towards Scarlet, who was arranging flowers nearby, his excitement infectious as he chatted about the bird he had seen.

Aimin: Aunty, You look birdy!

Scarlet smiled warmly, ruffling Aimin's hair affectionately.

Scarlet: I'm sure it was, Aimin. Did it have bright colors?

Aimin nodded eagerly, launching into a detailed description of the bird's colors and size.

As everyone settled around the table, Jungkook stood beside Aimin and Scarlet, a small smile playing on his lips as he watched Aimin excitedly help Scarlet with the flowers.

Hwasa noona, who had been sipping her tea quietly, decided to break the silence as she smiled sheepishly before saying.

Hwasa: Now, are you comfortable enough to share, Aaira? It would make for a wonderful, adventurous story for our tea evening.

Her tone was laced with subtle taunt, a knowing glint in her eyes. I tensed slightly, my fingers tightening around the teacup, but I remained silent. Before I could respond, Jungkook chimed in.

Jungkook: No other word to my wife, anyone.

Jungkook rarely intervened in such matters, but his protective stance was clear. I glanced at him, and gave him a smile. Hwasa noona raised an eyebrow, studying Jungkook for a moment before shrugging nonchalantly.

Hwasa: Suit yourself, Jungkook. It was merely a suggestion nothing else.

My mother in law spoke,

Jungkook's Mother: My daughter didn't slap your wife, or something, she just asked for a good story for this evening.

Jimin, who had been quietly observing the exchange, finally spoke up.

Jimin: We know what she did and what she didn't, so please don't justify it, Mother, or Noona.

His words were directed at Jungkook's mother, whose attempt to diffuse the situation had only added to the discomfort. Jungkook's mother looked taken aback.

Jungkook's Mother: Jimin, I was only trying to lighten the mood.

Taehyung shook his head,

Taehyung: There are better ways to do that than by questioning Aaira's past.

I glanced at Aimin, who seemed oblivious to the adult conversation, still absorbed in his storytelling with Scarlet. Seokjin interjected.

Seokjin: Let's focus on enjoying our evening together, shall we?

Scarlet: Aimin's story about the bird sounds fascinating.

Her attempt to diffuse the tension was met with nods from around the table, Aimin continued his animated tale, his enthusiasm contagious as he described the bird's graceful flight and colorful feathers.

Yoongi: I'm getting bored, what is this tea evening, there should be something strong instead.

I felt the tension around the table palpably shift. Jungkook's reaction was immediate; he quickly rose from his seat and came to sit beside me. I could tell very well his tendency towards jealousy, especially when it came to Yoongi. Yoongi, suddenly stood up.

Yoongi: I'm going to the cellar to fetch some wine for the evening. Does anyone care to join me?

Hwasa noona, always the instigator, chimed in before I could respond.

Hwasa: Aaira, why don't you go help him get the wine?

I wasn't sure why she would say it ? But before any of us could've reacted. Reyez chimed in suddenly.

Reyez: Why would Aaira go? She's been through enough already.

Hwasa’s eyes narrowed as she crossed her arms, clearly not backing down.

Hwasa: And why not? It’s just a trip to the cellar. It’s not like I’m asking her to climb a mountain.

Reyez: Because she’s still healing, Lady Wang. You act like she didn’t go through a traumatic ordeal.

Hwasa scoffed, rolling her eyes.

Hwasa: It’s been 22 days. How much more time does she need? People move on, Reyez. Maybe you should too.

Reyez: Move on? How could you even say that? You don't understand what it’s like to be in her shoes.

Hwasa stood up now, her eyes blazing with defiance.

Hwasa: What I understand is that you seem to have made yourself quite at home here. Why are you even still in my brother’s house?

Reyez smirked, leaning back in her chair with a confidence that matched Hwasa’s fire.

Reyez: This is as much Aaira’s house as it is your brother’s. So, I suggest you stop acting like you’re the only one who has a right to be here. Aaira is his wife, and she has every right to heal in her own time, in her own home.

Hwasa’s face turned red, clearly taken aback by Reyez's boldness.

Hwasa: My brother’s house, our house, has rules. Respect is one of them.

Reyez: Respect? If you respected Aaira, you wouldn’t be dragging her through your petty games and unnecessary questioning. She doesn’t owe you or anyone else an explanation about her healing process.

Hwasa clenched her jaw, but before she could reply, Jungkook spoke up, his tone dangerously calm.

Jungkook: That’s enough.

The tension in the air thickened as Jungkook’s gaze shifted between his sister and Reyez. His protective stance was clear, and though his words were few, the message was strong. Hwasa seemed to hesitate, the fire in her eyes dimming as she realized Jungkook wasn't on her side in this.

Hwasa: Fine.

She raised her hands in surrender, but the sharpness in her voice remained.

Hwasa: But don't expect everyone else to tiptoe around Aaira forever.

With that, she sat on the chair, leaning back sipping her tea, leaving an awkward silence hanging in the air. Reyez leaned back too, shaking her head in disbelief before muttering under her breath.

Reyez: Unreal.

I exhaled slowly, my grip on the teacup tightening as I tried to process everything that had just happened. Jungkook sat down beside me, his hand finding mine under the table.

Jungkook: Are you okay?

I nodded, though my heart was still racing from the confrontation. Jungkook gave my hand a gentle squeeze, his presence anchoring me as the tension began to ebb away. Hwasa noona was still fuming from the earlier exchange, suddenly scoffed.

Hwasa: Well, it seems now only Aaira will be going to the cellar with Yoongi. And that’s my order.

The entire table fell silent. Jungkook blinked in disbelief, his hand securely holding mine as if anchoring me to the moment.

Jungkook: My wife won’t.

Hwasa’s eyes flashed, and a defiant smirk curled at the corner of her lips. She was not about to back down, not now.

Hwasa: Oh, really? What’s the matter, Jungkook? Afraid she’ll find better company than you down there? Weren't you afraid when she was gone for 31 days ?

Her taunt hit its mark, but Jungkook didn’t flinch. His grip on my hand tightened slightly as he stared her down.

Jungkook: It has nothing to do with that. It’s about respect, noona. And you’re out of line.

Hwasa crossed her arms.

Hwasa: Respect? Please. I’m your older sister, and I say Aaira will go. Or is your wife above following the family’s orders now?

Jungkook: You don’t get to order my wife around. Especially not like this.

Hwasa let out a bitter laugh, raising her chin.

Hwasa: Oh, I see. You’re going to let her hide behind you forever, then? She’s not some fragile doll, Jungkook. Aaira can handle going to the cellar with Yoongi. Or are you that insecure?

I could feel Jungkook’s frustration simmering, but before he could speak, I gently squeezed his hand. I didn’t want this to escalate further, especially with everyone watching. Hwasa turned to look at me.

Hwasa: You’ve been sitting here, wrapped in your little cocoon of healing, but it's time to face reality, Aaira. You can’t keep playing the victim card forever. It's been long enough. Or are you so fragile that you can't even handle walking to the cellar?

Her words stung, but I refused to let them wound me. Jungkook, however, was at his limit.

Jungkook: She doesn’t have to explain herself to you. Not now, not ever.

Jungkook's mother: Why the hell you all are arguing, it's just a little thing ? What's wrong in walking to the cellar ?

Her suggestion was innocent on the surface, but I could feel Jungkook's gaze on me. Again, before I could formulate a response or decline, Yoongi extended his hand towards me, offering to help me stand.

Yoongi: Come on, Aaira. Let's get some wine.

Aaira: Um...

Yoongi: Come on, this drama will stop at once.

His tone was light. I hesitated for a moment, there was a tension between yoongi and me because of our past, and my old feelings, I had very well moved on from them but still it makes things awkward between us. Ultimately, I took Yoongi's hand, rising from my seat with a glance towards Jungkook.

His jaw tightened, his expression darkening as he watched us. With a deep breath, I followed Yoongi towards the cellar, leaving behind a subdued atmosphere at the table.

As we walked down the dimly lit corridor towards the cellar, Yoongi glanced at me sideways, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.

Yoongi: Stirring up trouble, huh?

I shook my head slightly, a small smile tugging at my lips despite the situation.

Aaira: Not intentionally. You know how it is.

Yoongi chuckled softly, our steps were echoing in the quiet hallway, the candle lights flickered around us, why would hwasa noona even choose me over everyone.

Yoongi: How's life lately, I forget to ask how are you ?

His words struck a chord within me, I hate confronting him, talking to him, literally cause he was my past.

Aaira: I'm good.

Yoongi: You know how it is, How Noona... Is?

Aaira: I know, but sometimes...

I trailed off, unsure how to articulate my feelings without betraying my words, Yoongi nodded understandingly.

Yoongi: Just remember, Aaira, she's not as bad as a person.

I nodded silently, As we reached the cellar door, Yoongi pulled it open, revealing shelves lined with bottles of wine. The cool air wafted out, carrying the scent of aged oak and rich reds, I hate wine, I hate drinking, even I've never been drunk in all my life.

Yoongi: Help me pick a good one for tonight.

I nodded, stepping into the cellar beside him. We browsed the shelves, discussing each bottle's origin and vintage. The task helped to distract me from the tension upstairs, focusing instead on the wines in my hand.

The shelves revealed a treasure trove of wines, each bottle was an own to craftsmanship and history. The flickering candlelight casts a warm glow on the dusty glass, making the labels appear ancient and mystical. I ran my fingers along the bottles, feeling the smooth curves and textured surfaces that spoke of decades spent in cool darkness.

One bottle stood out, its slender neck adorned with a wax seal bearing an intricate crest. Yoongi gently lifted it from its resting place, the glass cool to the touch. He turned it to catch the light, revealing a deep amber hue that hinted at aged richness.

The label, weathered and yellowed with time, bore the name of a renowned vineyard in Bordeaux, France, known for its robust reds favored by nobility and connoisseurs alike.

Beside it, another bottle beckoned, this one wider and squat, its glass tinted a subtle green from years of careful aging. The label, elegantly scripted in faded ink, proclaimed it to be a vintage from the Rhine Valley, celebrated for its delicate white wines that graced the tables of royalty across Europe.

Yoongi explained its rarity, recounting tales of how this particular vintage had once been a gift from a foreign diplomat to a grateful monarch, a resemblance to diplomacy and fine taste intertwined.

I found myself drawn to a third, more modest in appearance yet intriguing in its simplicity. Its label, barely legible but still discernible, marked it as a local vintage from the countryside surrounding our estate.

The wine within was known for its earthy notes and crisp finish, a favorite among our family for generations. I held it in my hands, feeling a connection to the land and legacy it represented. It were all like an ember vault.

After selecting a suitable wine, Yoongi handed it to me with a nod of approval.

Yoongi: This should do nicely.

I smiled gratefully, holding the bottle carefully.

Aaira: Thank you, Yoongi.

As we turned to leave the cellar, I couldn't shake the unease in the pit of my stomach. Returning upstairs meant facing Jungkook's reaction. Yoongi smiled at me slightly.

Yoongi: It'll be alright, Aaira. Just remember what I said.

I nodded quietly, trying to quell the unease gnawing at my stomach. Returning upstairs meant facing Jungkook's reaction, and I braced myself for the storm brewing in his eyes.

As we stepped out of the cellar, my eyes inadvertently fell on the passage leading to the cell area, where captives were held. I quickly averted my gaze, following Yoongi towards the staircase that led back upstairs.

I could feel Jungkook's gaze burning into my back, His silence spoke volumes, louder than any words could convey. As we ascended the stairs, the tension grew thicker with each step. I kept my gaze forward, focusing on the muted sounds of conversation drifting from the garden ahead.

As I stood beside Jungkook at the table, Without a word, he abruptly stood up and left, his chair scraping against the ground in his haste. I glanced around the table, my heart sinking.

Aaira: Scarlet, please look after Aimin for me.

She nodded understandingly, she watched me follow after Jungkook. With quick steps, I hurried after him, what was waiting for me inside the chamber ? Was I back to the old jungkook ?

───────── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ─────────

"No matter how far I run, his jealousy finds me, tethering me to a reality I dread."

───────── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ─────────

Don't forget to vote