Chapter 3: (Aaira's pov)

As I sat up, trying to calm down, I took a deep breath and closed my eyes to relax. But right away, scary memories filled my mind.

I quickly sat up and looked around, I was trying to breathe slowly. But suddenly my mind rushed towards my baby girl. I became worried about Annabelle, my beloved daughter.

I wondered how she was doing without me. She always missed me when I wasn't there. I called her name softly.

Aaira: Annabelle.

She should be doing fine, there was no day she has been ever separated from me ever since she has arrived but these past two months have been disaster.

Aaira: Annabella, Come to Mumma.

After a long moment, I saw Annabelle coming towards me. She moved gracefully, her shiny fur glowing in the soft light of the room. I felt relieved and happy to see her safe.

Annabelle walked closer to me and gently curled up in my lap, purring softly. Tears welled up in my eyes, and they dripped down, wetting her fur as I gently petted her.

Aaira: Hello, my sweet girl.

I said quietly, Annabelle nuzzled my hand gently, as if telling me she was here with me. She must have missed me so much, she doesn't even let others touch her.

Annabelle had always been there for me, giving me comfort without words. Now, seeing her by my side again, I felt grateful and warm inside.

Aaira: You missed me, didn't you?

I whispered softly, hugging her close and burying my face in her soft fur. Annabelle purred happily, making me feel calm.

Annabelle: Meow.

She meowed lightly, She was my first child, my everything before marriage.

I held her tightly, I was fully better and back with the people I loved. Thank god.

Just then, the door creaked open, revealing Suah Noona and Scarlet standing at the threshold. Their concerned expressions softened as they saw me awake.

Suah Noona rushed forward, her eyes welling up with tears.

Suah: Aaira, my dear, you're awake!

She enveloped me in a gentle embrace, careful not to exert too much pressure and careful with Annabelle being on my lap, Scarlet stood beside her.

Scarlet: Oh, thank the heavens! We've been so worried about you.

Suah: Seems like someone found her mother already.

I managed a weak smile, and nod.

Suah: You don't even know how much this kitty missed you.

Aaira: Did she ?

Suah: Obviously.

Scarlet scoffed suddenly.

Scarlet: The other girl... What was her name ?

Aaira: Moon Y/n.

Scarlet: Yes her, She scratched her when she tried to touch her.

I looked down at annabelle on my laps, she has met my baby too, has she met Aimin as well ? Where else has Jungkook taken her, What else has she done behind my back.

Aaira: It's good to see you both. How long have I been... Umm... You know ?

I tried to change the topic, Suah Noona interrupted softly, her voice filled with compassion.

Suah: You've been asleep for twenty days, my dear. It's been a difficult time for all of us.

I nodded slowly, trying to process the information. Twenty days felt like an eternity, and yet it passed in a blur of unconsciousness for me.

Aaira: What happened to me? I remember very little.

Scarlet stepped closer.

Scarlet: You were so ill, Aaira. It happened so suddenly. We thought we might lose you. We don't know what happened to you.

Suah Noona placed a hand on my arm.

Suah: Jungkook has refused us to ask you what you've been through, but when you feel comfortable, you can try reaching any of us.

I felt so uncomfortable suddenly at the mention of what had happened to me, I again did the same thing, changed the topic.

Aaira: Jungkook... he was here earlier. He's been... taking care of me.

Suah Noona nodded,

Suah: Yes, he's been beside himself with worry. He wouldn't leave your side, Aaira.

Scarlet: We shall help you to the dinning, Right ?

As I gently placed a kiss on Annabelle's forehead, feeling grateful for her presence, Suah Noona and Scarlet helped me to my feet. They supported me slightly as we passed through the corridors after corridors, and then down the stairs.

Jungkook and I lived on the 7th floor of the palace, and the journey down felt both familiar and daunting after being confined for so long. It was tiring for me, but I couldn't help.

As we reached the ground floor, I noticed some servants carrying plates of food towards the underground basement's cellar. My curiosity piqued, and I quickly asked about it.

Aaira: What's going on down there?

Scarlet glanced at Suah Noona, hesitating for a moment before responding.

Scarlet: It's... it's where they've been keeping the captives, you just know that.

I exchanged a worried glance with Suah Noona, Suah Noona sighed softly, her expression was troubled.

Suah: We've tried to keep you away from these things, but now that you're awake... Stay away from there.

As we made our way to the dining hall. Suah Noona and Scarlet guided me gently, supporting my steps as we approached the grand doors leading to the hall where Jungkook's family awaited us.

Inside, the dining table was set elegantly, and all of Jungkook's family was already seated. My mother-in-law, father-in-law, and Jungkook's siblings greeted me, but i couldn't look at them, I just couldn't make myself face them after my disappearance.

Jungkook took his place beside me, he held my hand gently under the table, as he gave me a light smile. As we all settled in, Hwasa noona, broke the uneasy silence.

Hwasa: Now that you're back and seemingly fine, Aaira, perhaps you can enlighten us on where you've been and who you were with.

We all stopped at where we were or what we were doing, The way she has asked it, seemed so harsh to me.

Hwasa: It's not exactly conducive to our family's reputation to have such mysterious disappearances about our house's daughter in laws.

I kept my gaze lowered, my silence speaking volumes as I struggled to find the right words. Jungkook's grip on my hand tightened subtly, a silent signal of his own frustration and protectiveness. Hwasa noona, undeterred by my silence, continued.

Hwasa: Aaira, we're all concerned about you. But avoiding the issue won't make it disappear. You owe it to the family to explain where you've been and why.

Her words stung. I swallowed hard, gathering my courage to respond, but before I could speak, Jungkook interjected with fury.

Jungkook: Hwasa Noona, that's enough for tonight. Aaira needs time. Pushing her like this won't help anyone.

Jungkook's Mother: But she's not entirely wrong Jungkook.

Seokjin: Enough is Enough, don't you all get that ?

Jungkook's Father: Stay out of this Seokjin.

Jimin interjected.

Jimin: Have you All have turned Insane, Lost your minds, why are we fighting over this silly topic? And you think it's the right time to talk about all of this Noona ?

Hwasa glanced at him, momentarily taken aback by his assertiveness.

Hwasa: Jungkook, we can't simply ignore-

Jungkook cut her off with a steely gaze, his protectiveness for me evident in every word.

Taehyung: Have we all forgotten what state we found her into, You all are just too desperate.

Everyone on the table nodded except from, Me, Hwasa noona, Father in law, & Mother in law.

Jungkook: We'll discuss this when Aaira is ready. Until then, let's enjoy our meal in peace.

As we sat at the dining table, I felt humiliated. I couldn't look up, afraid of Jungkook's family's stares. Each morsel of food felt heavy in my mouth. The atmosphere was tense, despite everyone's efforts to act normal. Jungkook holding my hand under the table helped me endure the scrutiny silently.

After we finished eating, my mother-in-law left suddenly, Hwasa Noona looked at me with her furious eyes, I just looked down.

Hwasa: Now that you're better, Aaira, we should talk soon.

With those words, she left too, leaving behind a suffocating silence. I stayed seated, feeling alone among Jungkook's family, unsure of their thoughts about me now.

Jungkook leaned closer, speaking softly.

Jungkook: Don't worry about them right now. They'll understand later.

His words didn't ease my worries much. I nodded quietly, grateful for his attempt to comfort me. As everyone gradually left the dining hall, a heavy silence settled around me, broken only by the clinking of plates and the soft whispers of the maids as they cleared the table.

There were their hushed voices too, judging me without knowing, that's what our society is good at. Judging.

I sat there, staring down at my untouched food, trying to ignore their stares and unspoken accusations. The words of Hwasa noona echoed in my mind. But I couldn't bring myself to speak, not now, not when my emotions were still raw and tangled.

The maids worked efficiently, their presence a stark reminder of my position in this grand palace - a position that felt more precarious than ever before. Their whispered comments reached my ears, casting me as the subject of gossip, of pity, or worse, of disdain.

Maid 1: Did you see her face when they asked her?

Maid 2: Poor thing. Imagine disappearing like that.

Maid 3: Shameless, if you ask me. What was she up to all this time?

Maid 1: Ask me, no one goes anywhere against her will.

Maid 2: I know right ?

Maid 3: The fact is, if something terrible would have happened to her, why wouldn't she reach her husband? Why would she stay quiet unless she's at a big fault.

Maid 1: You're right.

Maid 2: I guess I just pity her.

Their words stung, each syllable like a knife twisting in my already wounded heart. I clenched my fists, fighting back the urge to lash out or retreat further into myself.

As their whispers continued to cut through the air like shards of glass, I felt a surge of anger and hurt wash over me. How dare they judge me without knowing the truth? How dare they discuss my life as if it were mere fodder for gossip?

Ask me I had no energy to cry anymore, I've cried all my life and now after spending the most horrible time at that place I knew no one will take your side but you.

In a moment of heated impulse, I stood up abruptly, startling the maids who were still lingering nearby. Their eyes widened in surprise as I walked purposefully towards them, my steps echoing in the now eerily quiet hall.

Aaira: Stop.

I commanded, my voice trembling with a mixture of rage and pain. The maids froze, their faces now a mix of fear and guilt as they realized I had overheard their conversation.

Aaira: You.

I pointed accusingly at Maid 1.

Aaira: And you.

I turned to Maid 2.

Aaira: And all of you.

I gestured broadly to include the group.

Aaira: Come here.

They hesitated for a moment, exchanging uncertain glances, but my glare left them with no choice. Slowly, hesitantly, they approached me, their heads bowed in shame.

Without warning, I slapped Maid 1 across the face with a resounding crack that echoed through the hall. She gasped in surprise, clutching her cheek in shock. The other maids gasped in horror, their eyes wide with disbelief.

Before anyone could react, I swiftly turned and slapped Maid 2, then Maid 3, each blow ringing out in the silent hall. Their faces reddened with the sting of my hand, tears welling up in their eyes as they recoiled from the sudden outburst of my anger.

Aaira: You dare.

I seethed, my voice trembling with emotion.

Aaira: To gossip about me behind my back, to judge me without knowing a single thing about what I've been through?

The maids remained silent, too stunned to respond. I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself, the rush of adrenaline beginning to ebb away.

Aaira: This palace,

I continued, my voice calmer but no less firm,

Aaira: Is not a place for idle gossip or baseless accusations. You are here to serve, not to speculate on matters that do not concern you.

I looked each of them in the eye.

Aaira: Next time.

I warned, my voice was low and filled with a steely resolve.

Aaira: If I hear even a whisper of gossip about me or anyone else in this palace, you will not just lose your dignity. You will lose your jobs.

With that, I turned on my heel and walked back to my seat at the dining table, my heart still pounding. I sank into the chair.

The maids stood there, stunned into silence, before slowly dispersing to resume their duties, chastened by the unexpected confrontation. The hall fell quiet once more.

As the maids stood there, stunned and silent, I felt a heaviness set in my chest. Had I gone too far in my anger? Did they really deserve such harsh treatment? Questions raced through my mind, but I couldn't deny the surge of frustration that had driven me to lash out.

Suddenly, the silence was broken by a loud clap echoing through the dining hall. My eyes widened in surprise as Reyez entered, munching on snacks with her feet propped up on the table.

Reyez: Woah, Aaira!

She exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement.

Reyez: You know what? For the first time after your marriage, I get to see the old Aaira, the one you were before all of this!

She hooted playfully in the air, clearly thrilled by my outburst, still clapping. I scoffed at her casual demeanor.

Aaira: Rey, it’s not acceptable to sit like that in our house.

I said, careful but quick in my movements as I rushed over to her. With a gentle nudge, I urged her to sit up properly. She rolled her eyes dramatically, a smile dancing on her lips as she adjusted her position.

Reyez: Fine, fine! But seriously, that was epic!

She said, her laughter bubbling up.

Reyez: I thought you were a shadow of your former self, but look at you now!

Her presence was a much-needed distraction.

Aaira: You shouldn’t be encouraging this kind of behavior, Rey.

I replied, trying to sound stern, though my heart wasn’t in it. She waved a hand dismissively.

Reyez: Please, they had it coming! You stood up for yourself, and that’s what matters. Don’t let anyone walk all over you, especially not those gossiping maids.

As she settled back into her seat, I felt a little of the tension within me. Rey had a way of bringing lightness to even the heaviest situations.

Aaira: Now go to your room.

I scoffed.

Reyez: Whatever, But let’s not wait until you’re facing down a gaggle of maids to get together again.

She replied with a wink.

Reyez: I’ve been here for four days, and they’ve barely let me see you!

I glanced around the dining hall, still unsure of how the others would react to Rey's presence.

Aaira: Jungkook’s family...

Reyez: Forget them for a moment! You’re family to me too, Aaira. Besides, they need to learn to treat you with the respect you deserve.

She said.

Reyez: If you can take on those maids, I can handle a few judgmental glances.

Aaira: Thank you, Rey.

I said softly,

Aaira: Now, Go to your room!

She chuckled softly, before rolling her eyes leaving.

Reyez: Bye!

Feeling conflicted, I took a deep breath, Just then, Annabelle appeared at my feet, her ocean-blue eyes reflecting concern and love. I knelt down and scooped her up into my arms, seeking solace in her comforting presence.

Aaira: Annabelle...

I whispered softly, burying my face in her fur. Her purring vibrations against my chest grounded me.

Aaira: Did I do the right thing, girl?

Annabelle nuzzled against me gently, her warmth and softness easing some of the tension in my muscles. I closed my eyes, trying to gather my thoughts.

Aaira: Maybe I was too harsh... But they shouldn't have spoken about me like that.

I spoke more to myself than to Annabelle, grappling with the conflict between standing up for myself and maintaining composure. The maids' whispers had cut deep, reopening wounds I thought I had started to heal.

Aaira: I'm sorry you had to witness that, Annabelle.

I murmured, rubbing her ears affectionately. She responded with a gentle meow. Moments later, Jungkook came and sat beside me.

Jungkook: Hey...

He murmured softly, his voice filled with concern as he glanced at me and then at Annabelle.

Jungkook: Are you okay?

I nodded slightly, managing a small smile.

Aaira: Yes, I'm fine now. Just... needed a moment.

Jungkook reached out, gently squeezing my hand in slightly.

Jungkook: I'm sorry about what happened earlier. They had no right to speak about you like that.

I shook my head slightly.

Aaira: It's... it's alright. I just... couldn't bear it.

Jungkook's expression softened, his eyes reflecting understanding.

Jungkook: I know, Aaira. But you don't have to prove anything to them. They'll come around.

I leaned into him slightly, feeling the familiar comfort of his embrace. Annabelle, sensing the tension easing, slipped from my arms and darted away, her tail held high as she disappeared into the shadows.

Aaira: And Aimin... How is he?

Jungkook's face lit up with a smile.

Jungkook: Oh, he's upstairs, sleeping peacefully. He missed you, though.

My heart swelled with joy at the thought of seeing our son again after what felt like an eternity of separation.

Aaira: I can't wait to see him.

Jungkook's hand found mine again.

Aaira: Thank you, My lord. For everything.

Jungkook leaned closer, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead.

Jungkook: Always, Aaira. I'm here for you,

Aaira: I love you, My lord.

Jungkook's smile widened, his eyes shining with tenderness.

Jungkook: And I love you, Aaira.

As I looked at Jungkook with pleading eyes and a smug smile, I couldn't contain my excitement to see Aimin after such a long time apart.

Aaira: Can I go and see him now? Can you take me there, please?

Jungkook bit his lips slightly, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he lifted me up in bridal style, earning a joyful laugh from me.

Jungkook: Why not, your Highness? Let's go see our son.

It felt like ages since I had laughed so freely, forgetting the weight of recent events and simply reveling in the moment with him.

Aaira: Jungkook, you're such a tease!

I chuckled, my heart lightening with every step he took towards the 7th floor where our son awaited us. Despite his mischievous pretense of being tired, I could feel the strength in his arms.

Jungkook: Just a few more steps, my love. Can't have you thinking I'm not up to the task.

His playful smirk and the sparkle in his eyes melted away any lingering worries. I nestled closer to him, feeling safe and cherished in his embrace.

Aaira: You could carry me anywhere, and I'd still trust you completely.

Jungkook's laughter mingled with mine as we reached the landing of our floor. He walked with deliberate steps, enjoying our playful banter and the rare freedom of this moment together.

Jungkook: Ah, the trials of a prince's duties.

He carried me towards our son's door on the 7th floor. Aimin, our three-year-old, awaited us eagerly. I could already imagine his messy pajamas and the long hair that cascaded around his face, resembling Jungkook's own.

His smile would surely reveal his small bunny teeth, accompanied by dimples on his cheeks that melted my heart every time. As Jungkook pushed open the door, Aimin turned towards us with wide eyes, his face lighting up with delight as he recognized us.

Aimin: Mumma! Dadda!

He ran towards us, his small feet padding softly on the floor. I couldn't hold back my own smile.

Aaira: Aimin, my darling boy!

I hugged him tightly, breathing in his familiar scent. Aimin giggled happily, Jungkook knelt down beside us, his hands resting on Aimin's shoulders as he smiled proudly at our son.

Jungkook: Look at you, Aimin. You've grown so much since Mumma last saw you.

Aimin nodded enthusiastically, his eyes shining with adoration for both of us.

Aimin: Missed Mama lots!

His words melted my heart even more. I kissed his cheek repeatedly, feeling overwhelmed with love for this precious child who had waited patiently for me. This was our routine whenever we would meet.

Aaira: I missed you too, my little prince.

Jungkook chuckled softly, ruffling Aimin's hair affectionately.

Jungkook: Aimin, do you remember Mumma, or you already forgot her ?

Aimin nodded again, his smile widening as he wrapped his arms around my neck.

Aimin: Love Mama!

I held him close, this was so much needed.

Aaira: And I love you, Aimin. So much.

Jungkook rested his hand on my shoulder.

Jungkook: You're forgetting dadda ?

I nodded, Aimin quickly rushed to his side, to give him a hug.

Jungkook: Every time I look at him, I would want to Thank you, Aaira. For bringing such a blessing like him to this world.

Jungkook kissed my forehead gently, his eyes shimmering with love and happiness. We stayed like that, we played the whole night until the three of us slept on the floor beside each other, What else did I need ?

As I returned to my family, surrounded by loved ones and the comfort of familiarity, I found myself grappling with the aftermath of my ordeal.

I never knew I would have to confront those memories again, to relive the horrors of that haunted house and the sinister experiments of the old couple. For a fleeting moment, I wished to forget everything, to bury those haunting images deep within.

Yet, my mind raced with unanswered questions about Soobin and Y/n, wondering what had become of them in that dreadful place.

───────── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ─────────

"Because what's a palace without a good scandal, right? Just another day in the life of royal drama."

───────── ᯓᡣ𐭩 ─────────

Don't forget to vote