Chapter 44: (Aaira's pov)

Two days had passed since Jungkook's heartfelt gesture-a sculpture that captured not only our shared moments but also the raw emotion that had defined our relationship.

Tonight, however, was different. Jungkook had organized a grand ball, a lavish affair intended to bring together friends and family in a celebration of sorts, I don't know for what.

The ballroom was adorned with elegant decorations, soft candles casting a warm glow over the crowd, music, so much food. The music played softly in the background, and guests moved gracefully across the polished floor in their finest attire, with a glass of wine in their hands, some had cigar, they chatted and laughed.

I stood in the middle of the room. The grandeur of the evening seemed to amplify my own internal distress. I watched as couples danced, laughter and conversation blending into a pleasant hum. My gaze wandered across the room, seeking something-anything-that would ground me in the moment. I stood there, feeling a little adrift amidst the celebration.

Jungkook: Attention everyone.

His voice broke through the noise. It was clear, that he was demanding attention. The crowd seemed to part as he made his way towards me. His gaze locked on mine as if nothing else mattered. The woman that had always fallen over him seemed to be giggling as they finally saw him.

When he reached me, Jungkook dropped to one knee in the center of the ballroom. The suddenness of his action drew gasps and murmurs from the assembled guests, their eyes widening in surprise. But he cared less about them, he looked up at me.

Jungkook: Aaira, I need to speak with you.

He was confident of what he was going to do. I could feel his words before he even began. The room seemed to hold its breath, every guest now focused on us.

Jungkook: I know that these past few months have been difficult. I have not been the husband you deserve. I have been distant, rude, and neglectful. I let my own frustrations cloud my judgment and I failed to listen to you when you needed me most.

His words echoed through the room, I felt a lump form in my throat, my emotions swirling as I looked down at him.

Jungkook: I am sorry for all the times I dismissed your feelings, for all the moments I was too caught up in my own world to see how much you were suffering. I should have been your support, your partner, not just someone who was physically present but emotionally absent.

He took a deep breath, his eyes never leaving mine.

Jungkook: I should have listened to you when you needed to talk, when you needed me to be there for you. I should have recognized the pain you were going through, and I should have done everything in my power to ease it. Instead, I failed you, and for that, I am deeply sorry.

A tear slipped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away, not wanting to show too much emotion in front of everyone. Jungkook continued, his own voice was trembling slightly.

Jungkook: I know that words alone cannot undo the hurt I've caused, but I want you to know that I am committed to making things right. I want to be better for you, for us. I want to be the husband you deserve, the one who listens, cares, and supports you in every way.

He paused, looking at me with hope and trepidation. The room remained silent, the crowd watching with bated breath as Jungkook's apology unfolded.

Jungkook: I have arranged this ball not just to celebrate, but to show you that I am willing to make amends. I want to start fresh, to rebuild the trust and love that we once had. I want you to know that I am dedicated to our relationship and to make sure that you feel valued and cherished.

His gaze softened, and he reached out, taking my hand gently in his.

Jungkook: Please, Aaira. Forgive me. Let me prove that I am worthy of your love and trust. Allow me the chance to be the partner you've always deserved.

The sincerity in his eyes, the depth of his remorse, and the heartfelt nature of his apology broke through the barriers I had built around my heart. I took a deep breath, my voice was trembling as I spoke.

Aaira: My lord, You don't have to do this.

Jungkook shook his head as no.

Jungkook: I understand. But, I am committed to proving that I can change, that I can be the husband you need and deserve. I will show you through my actions, not just my words.

The crowd around us seemed to fade into the background as I looked down at him.

Jungkook: I've been blind to everything you've sacrificed for me. Now, I see clearly. I want to be better, to be the man who stands by your side as you have stood by mine. I am sorry for the pain I caused and for the silence that spoke louder than any apology.

As he looked down at me, his eyes glistened with unshed tears.

Aaira: You don't have to apologise to me here, it's okay.

Jungkook: No, I've always hurt you in silence, nobody knows what I was causing. I told you that I loved you, yet I was the one who hurt you the most.

Je began, his voice was barely above a whisper but carrying through the hushed crowd.

Jungkook: You never complained about it, to me, or to someone else. Today, I don't want to apologize in a corner, or the walls of our chamber, but in front of everyone.

He paused, taking a deep breath as if to steady himself.

Jungkook: Because, I realised, I was Suffering, and you were there for me without thinking twice that you were dying too. But I kept pushing you away, unable to see the love and sacrifice you were offering me. I realize now how deeply I've wounded you, how many times I've broken your heart.

He was offering not just words, but he was healing me.

Jungkook: I want to make things right.

The crowd's murmurs grew louder, but he didn't spare a glance at any of them, his brothers were sliming at him, some were proud, some were in awe.

Jungkook: Trust me, I've always been afraid to show my true self, to let you see my flaws and my pain. But today, I stand before you, not as the man I was, but as the man I am becoming. I want you to see my heart, my soul.

Aaira: I want to believe you, My lord. I really do. But actions speak louder than words.

Minji: Yes, If you truly want to make things right, then you need to show her, every day, that you are willing to work towards a better future for both of you.

Minji Interrupted suddenly, his face softened. He rose to his feet, his eyes never leaving mine, look at her for a brief moment, before nodding then back at me.

Jungkook: I promise you, Aaira. I will show you every day that I am committed to making things right. I will work hard to rebuild our trust and to be the partner you've always deserved.

He gently squeezed my hand, his gaze filled with unwavering sincerity. I nodded. The crowd around us seemed to buzz with a life of its own, whispers and murmurs spreading like wildfire. The girls in the crowd, their eyes wide with envy, couldn't help but whisper among themselves, their faces flushed with jealousy.

On the other hand, the men in the crowd shifted uncomfortably, their faces betraying their disappointment. To them, it was unusual, perhaps even troubling, to see a man of Jungkook's stature so openly vulnerable and remorseful.

Meanwhile, the women in the crowd watched with awe and wistfulness. Their eyes were filled with romantic longing as they envisioned themselves in my place, receiving such a heartfelt apology. Some sighed dreamily, lost in their fantasies of being the center of such emotional declarations.

Jungkook smiled, as he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to my forehead. The crowd around us slowly began to dissolve back into their conversations again, we stood there, hand in hand. The ball continued around us, but for that moment, it felt as though the world had narrowed to just the two of us, standing together.

***

As dawn light seeped into the room, I slowly stirred awake. The blankets were snug around me, and I felt an unusual emptiness beside me. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, I glanced around and noticed that Jungkook was not beside me. The room was quiet, the gentle sound of rain pattering against the window was the only noise breaking the silence.

I sat up carefully, my body still feeling a bit weak but significantly better than the night before. The door creaked open, and Jungkook stepped in with a cheerful smile, pushing a trolley laden with an assortment of breakfast items.

Jungkook: Good morning, wifey.

He set the trolley down with a soft clink, his smile widening as he saw me awake. I returned his smile, feeling a warmth spread through me at the sight of him. His presence, though unexpected, was comforting.

Aaira: Good morning.

I replied, my voice is still a little husky from sleep. Jungkook approached the bed and took a seat beside me, his eyes filled with a mix of tenderness and care.

Jungkook: Did you sleep well?

He asked, his tone light and full of genuine concern. I nodded, stretching a bit to get rid of the stiffness from the night.

Aaira: Much better. Thank you for everything last night.

Jungkook's face lit up with a smile, his eyes were sparkling with affection.

Jungkook: I'm glad to hear that. I thought you might be hungry, so I prepared a little breakfast for us.

He gestured to the trolley, which was filled with a variety of items-fresh fruit, pastries, scrambled eggs, and a pot of tea. The sight of the food was both appetizing and soothing, a perfect start to the day.

Aaira: You didn't have to go through all this trouble, My lord.

I said, though my smile indicated how much I appreciated his gesture. Jungkook shook his head, his expressions were serious yet soft.

Jungkook: It's no trouble at all. I want to make sure you're comfortable and taken care of.

He reached for a plate and began to arrange a little of everything for me. I watched him silently.

Jungkook: Here, try some of this. It's your favorite.

He placed a small portion of fruit and a warm pastry on the plate, carefully setting it beside me. I took a bite, savoring the taste, and looked at him with a smile.

Aaira: This is perfect. Thank you.

Jungkook nodded, his smile widening as he leaned in closer. He took a sip from his own cup of tea and settled beside me.

Jungkook: I'm glad you think so. I just wanted to start the day right, especially after everything.

I reached out and took his hand, squeezing it gently. The connection between us was visible through these small gestures.

Aaira: It means a lot to me.

His gaze softened as he brushed a strand of hair away from my face. He looked at me, as if resolving to make things right between us.

Jungkook: Let's make today a good day. We'll take it easy, and we can talk more about everything later after we eat.

I nodded, as I started to eat the meal Jungkook had prepared for me. The food was simple but lovingly made, and despite my discomfort, the warmth of the meal was comforting. I found myself feeling a bit better with each bite, but the dull ache in the pit of my stomach remained. As I finished my meal, Jungkook took my hand in his, his expressions were serious but gentle.

Jungkook: Can I ask you a question?

The unexpectedness of his request made me pause, my fork halfway to my mouth. I looked at him, unsure of what to expect, but I nodded.

Jungkook: What happened to you when you were gone?

His question hit me like a rock. Memories I had tried to push away surged to the forefront of my mind, each one more painful than the last. I felt my body freeze, a cold sweat breaking out on my forehead as the terror of those moments gripped me once more.

Jungkook: Aaira, you need to tell me what happened, so that I can understand your point of view better.

His voice was firm but compassionate, the urgency in his tone tempered by a deep, empathetic concern. I stared at him, my heart racing as I grappled with the decision to open up about the traumatic experiences I had endured.

Tears began to well up in my eyes as I struggled to find the words. My breath came in shallow bursts, the weight of my silence was too much to bear, no doubt.

Aaira: I... I don't know if I can. It's so hard to talk about...

Jungkook's grip on my hand tightened slightly.

Jungkook: Aaira, I need to know. Not just for me, but for us. Whatever happened, I want to understand and be there for you.

His earnest plea broke through my defenses, and I felt a sob rise in my throat. I looked away, I was struggling to steady my trembling voice.

Aaira: They... they took me. The couple, the old ones. They thought I was their daughter...

I stopped, the memory overwhelming me. Jungkook's eyes softened as he watched me.

Jungkook: It's okay, take your time.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself.

Aaira: They... they did things to me. Terrible things. I was... I was so scared. They didn't see me as me, but as someone else, someone who was dead, or maybe, Y/n. They hurt me, tried to force me to be their daughter. I... I felt so helpless, so lost.

Jungkook's face paled, his grip on my hand tightening in a comforting gesture.

Jungkook: I'm so sorry, Aaira. I had no idea...

The pain in his eyes was almost too much to bear, but his presence was grounding. I looked at him, trying to gauge his reaction.

Aaira: It's not just about what they did. It's also the fear of losing everything. It's not just physical pain, it's... it's everything. The fear, the helplessness, the feeling of being trapped in a nightmare.

His eyes glistened with unshed tears, as he moved closer, wrapping his arms around me in a comforting hug.

Jungkook: I can't imagine what you went through, but I want to know.

I started crying uncontrollably. My sobs wracked my body as I struggled to find the words to describe the horrors I had faced.

Aaira: They wanted me to marry someone... someone I refused. So they poisoned me, Jungkook. They poisoned me... which kept me sleeping for five days straight. When I tried to run... they nailed my hands to the chair.

I could barely speak through my tears, but I managed to pull my hands out from beneath the table, showing him the scars and marks that remained. The sight of them made me sob even harder.

Aaira: I waited and waited... for you to come and save me. But you never did.

His gaze fell to the floor, the tears in his eyes spilled over finally, which he was trying his best to keep in control.

Jungkook: I'm so sorry, Aaira. I... I didn't know. I should have been there.

His voice cracked, he held me tighter, as if trying to make up for the time lost and the pain endured.

Aaira: I thought... I thought I was completely alone. The waiting, the fear... it was unbearable.

He hugged me more tightly, as I continued to recount my pain. My sobs grew louder as I spoke, the words coming out in choked, fragmented sentences.

Aaira: I had to pull my hands with the nails still piercing them to the chairs... I lost so much blood.

The mere recollection of the pain made me cry harder, the tears flowing freely as I struggled to breathe through the sorrow. His hands caress my back, his own tears mingling with mine.

Aaira: I asked for help from Ian. He took me to his house, and I met his daughter... but that old couple came there too. They took me back to that hell... Jungkook, they burned my insides. They experimented on me.

I choked suddenly, Jungkook shifted slightly, and I could see the flicker of jealousy in his eyes at the mention of Ian's name. Despite his intense emotions, he pushed his jealousy aside, focusing solely on my suffering.

Jungkook: I can't believe they did this to you...

I held Jungkook's hand tightly, my fingers trembling as I pointed to my shoulder, the deep mark still visible.

Aaira: Jungkook, they implanted something here in my shoulder...

I choked again.

Aaira: I was burning, vomiting blood... so much blood, Jungkook. When I fainted, Ian was there. He took me to the hospital.

Again at the mention of Ian's name, his fist clenched tightly. I could feel his anger towards the situation, yet his focus remained on me.

Aaira: The doctor asked me who I wanted to go back with... Ian or the old couple.

My sobs intensified, my breath hitching as I recounted the painful choice I was forced to make.

Aaira: I didn't have an option, Jungkook. I had to choose Ian. Later, I had to operate my own shoulder...

The words trailed off as I broke down completely, the gravity of the situation and the immense pain I had endured flooding through me. Jungkook's grip tightened, his other hand gently brushing away my tears. I took a shuddering breath, as I continued.

Aaira: Jungkook, but every day at Ian's house, I kept thinking about you. I decided to leave, hoping to find you... but it was my biggest mistake.

I recalled the horror that followed, the wounds were still fresh.

Aaira: The old man caught me. I was tortured for eight days straight after that... In the middle of it, he tried to... to rape me.

My voice broke completely, Jungkook gasp, I could see his nerves fraying, he was getting angry to an extent. I sobbed.

Aaira: But his wife came in just in time... I was so scared, Jungkook. I felt like I was going to lose everything, and then... I didn't know if I'd ever see you again.

Jungkook was angry, guilty, and sad. His hands left my hands, as once again his arms tightened around me, as if he was trying to shield me from the pain of the past and make up for the lost time.

Jungkook: I wish I could have been there for you. I wish I could have protected you from all of this... I'm so sorry, Aaira. I'll do everything I can to make it right, to keep you safe from now on. I'll make them regret, trust me.

His words were full of regret, and I could feel the sincerity in his embrace. I wiped away my tears, my voice trembling with the weight of my memories.

Aaira: I decided to run... I mustered all the courage I had and hit both of them with a rod. I ran and ran until Soobin and Y/n found me.

I looked up at him, seeing the softness in his eyes, and the flicker of regret that briefly crossed his face.

Aaira: They helped me get here... Jungkook, I'm so grateful for them.

I just wanted him to know what I went through, so ge understand why I was so broken. His expression grew more solemn as he absorbed my words, the regret for his previous actions mixing with the pain of hearing what I had endured.

He gently cupped my face in his hands, but I crouched down, my sobs growing louder and more desperate as I tried to gather the strength to speak. My heart was heavy with unspoken fears.

Aaira: Jungkook... When I met Y/n, she told me something... She told me that, you...

My voice broke, I couldn't bring myself to ask him if he had slept with Y/n. The mere thought was unbearable. I can't... I can't ask him. My heart just can't take it. I shook my head, trying to push away the lingering fears.

Jungkook: What did she say?

I looked up at him.

Aaira: Nothing. Just... nothing.

His expression softened further, and he knelt beside me, wrapping his arms around me once more. His voice was a gentle whisper.

Jungkook: I understand if you can't talk about it now. But know this, Aaira-whatever you've heard or feared, I will always be honest with you. I'm here for you, I don't care about what that liar said to you.

Aaira: Wait here.

I quickly moved towards the closet, my hands trembling as I retrieved the stack of photographs I had brought with me. Each picture was a grim evidence to the horrors I had endured. I carefully laid them out before Jungkook, one by one.

I unfolded them, revealing the horrible moments captured on paper. I spread the pictures out in front of Jungkook, as he was watching each of them, his eyes widen with curiosity and disgust. He stared at each image.

His mouth widened in disbelief as he took in the images. His face shifted through a spectrum of emotions-shock, anger, and deep sorrow. The concept of photographs was entirely new to him, and seeing these moments frozen in time was both fascinating and horrifying.

Jungkook: What are these?

Aaira: They're... pictures. They capture moments.

His gaze remained fixed on the images, his fury evident as he saw the proof of the old couple's cruelty. He clenched his fists, his expression darkening with each new photo.

Jungkook: I can't believe this... I never knew... I didn't know they were capable of such cruelty.

His voice was filled with both wonder and rage, realizing the extent of the suffering I had been through. I watched him, my own heart aching as he processed the evidence laid before him. His gaze softened as he looked at me, before asking.

Jungkook: Aaira, I need to know where the portal is. It's important. Where is it?

I shook my head frantically, my heart racing with fear. I clasped both my hands together, desperation filled my voice.

Aaira: Please, Jungkook, don't go there. I'm begging you. It's dangerous.

He continued to stare at me.

Jungkook: Aaira, I understand you're scared, but I have to know. You know there's nothing I'm not capable of ?

I could see the resolve in his eyes, and it broke my heart to think of him putting himself in danger. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my voice.

Aaira: I've seen what they're capable of. They're not just dangerous; they're cruel and ruthless. They will do anything to get what they want. Please, you don't understand...

He locked his eyes on mine, as he continued to ask me.

Jungkook: Aaira, I have to understand. I can't just sit here knowing there's something I can't do. Tell me where it is, and if it's as dangerous as you say, I'll figure out a way to handle it. But I need to know, I can't sit here after what they did to my wife.

Jungkook's gaze remained intense, he was not going to back off, but i kept shaking my head as no.

Jungkook: Aaira, this is not just about me. It's about stopping them from hurting anyone else.

Aaira: No, you don't understand. If you go there, you're risking everything. They're dangerous, far beyond anything you've ever faced. I can't bear to lose you.

Jungkook stepped closer.

Jungkook: Aaira, listen to me. The only thing at stake here is their life, not yours or mine. They haunted you, and now I'll haunt them.

I tried to maintain eye contact.

Aaira: But you don't know what they're capable of. They have devices, traps... they're prepared for anyone who dares to challenge them. Please, I'm afraid for you.

He reached out, placing a hand on my shoulder.

Jungkook: I hear you, Aaira. I really do. But if I don't act now, what about justice you deserve ? We have to end this, and that means I need to face them.

I felt a knot form in my chest as I looked at him. I can't resist him more, I know he will keep asking me.

Aaira: Jungkook, promise me you'll be careful. Promise me you'll think things through and not rush into danger.

He took a deep breath.

Jungkook: I promise, Aaira. I'll be cautious. But I have to do this. For both of us. I'll make them suffer every bit of pain they've implanted on you.

I could see the conflict in his eyes, the struggle between his desire to protect me and his need to address the threat. Reluctantly, I nodded.

Aaira: Okay, Jungkook. But please, please come back to me. I can't lose you too.

Jungkook pulled me into a tight embrace, his voice muffled against my hair.

Jungkook: I'm not going anywhere, Aaira. I'll be careful, and I'll come back to you. Just stay safe and wait for me.

I clung to him. Jungkook pulled back from the hug, as he looked at me intently.

Jungkook: Now, tell me where the portal is.

I hesitated for a moment. Finally, with a resigned sigh, I whispered, my voice barely audible.

Aaira: It's in the storeroom.

He nodded.

Jungkook: Alright. I'll head there and check it out. You stay here and try to get some rest.

He took a step towards the door. I reached out, grabbing his arm gently.

Aaira: Jungkook, please be careful. I can't lose you.

He turned back to me, his eyes filled with love and affection .

Jungkook: I'll be careful, Aaira. I promise. I love you so much, hm ?

Aaira: I love you too.

With one last reassuring glance, Jungkook made his way towards the storeroom. As he disappeared from view, I sat down on the bed, my heart pounding in my chest, hoping and praying that he would return safely and that this dangerous chapter could finally come to a close. I can't bear to lose him.

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"As you walked away, it felt like a piece of my soul was being torn from me. With every step you took away from me, it felt as though a fragment of my being was slipping away."

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